This week Angie talks with our moderator April Rose where they discuss the featured post of a member's frustration over not being able to use their Priority Pass (PP) membership at SFO, prompting them to consider downgrading their CSR card. PP lounge access is often better internationally, sparking a discussion on the potential downgrades by other members.

In the news, AA announced that Citi will be the sole issuer of AA credit cards by 2026. Rakuten is offering a $40 sign-up bonus through their portal, valid until 12/16. Spirit Airlines, currently in bankruptcy, offers a status match opportunity until January 2025. The fee to pay federal income taxes with a credit card has decreased, making it more profitable to use a 2% cash-back card.

In the main feature April and Angie also share updates on their personal award travel experiences and discuss the benefits and logistics of planning girls' trips using points and miles, from lounge access to sharing travel expenses. They highlight the importance of having a ready-to-go cosmetic bag and optimizing packing for TSA regulations.

Links to Topics Discussed

• Citi to Become Sole Issuer of American Airlines Credit Cards
• Rakuten shopping portal cash back offers (or Amex MR)
• Spirit Airlines Elite Status Match
• Paying taxes with a credit card

Where to Find Us

1. The Award Travel 101 Facebook Community.
2. To book time with our team, check out Award Travel 1-on-1.
3. You can also email us at [email protected]
4. Buy your Award Travel 101 Merch here
5. Reserve tickets to our Spring 2026 Meetup in Phoenix now. award.travel/phx2026

Our partner CardPointers helps us get the most from our cards. Signup today at https://cardpointers.com/at101 for a 30% discount on annual and lifetime subscriptions!

Lastly, we appreciate your support of the AT101 Podcast/Community when you signup for your next card!

Technical note: Some user experience difficulty streaming the podcast while connected to a VPN. If you have difficulty, disconnect from your VPN.