In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula chats with travel & miles and points enthusiast Ronnie Dunston.

Ronnie, a visitor of 108 countries, explains real-world strategies for traveling more (and spending less) using credit cards, airline miles, hotel points, and loyalty programs.

Ronnie shares what actually works for booking award flights, earning faster with the right cards, and keeping it organized when you’re managing multiple accounts, player two, or family travel.

We also talk about the reality of flying with kids (economy vs. business), using perks like Fine Hotels + Resorts credits, and how meetups and community can accelerate your learning curve in the points and miles game.

If you’re trying to travel more in 2026 without blowing your budget, this one’s packed with practical tips.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to low-cost travel with points and miles

00:59 Upcoming meetups and social media updates

01:47 Introducing Ronnie Dunston

02:07 Travel stories and experiences

03:24 Points and miles strategies

05:49 Credit card strategy and maximizing rewards

25:12 Family travel tips and managing multiple accounts

28:44 Flying with kids: economy vs. business class

30:17 Booking strategies for international travel

31:42 Maximizing points and miles for luxury stays

36:50 Using Fine Hotels + Resorts credits

46:58 The value of travel meetups and community

49:46 Final thoughts and upcoming events

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