Get fresh NerdWallet data on what your points and miles are really worth in 2025 — and why the answer might change how you book travel.

Should you take a $650 flight voucher or 32,500 miles? How much are your points and miles actually worth? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle break down the latest NerdWallet valuations to help you make smarter redemption choices. But first, they cover the week’s biggest travel headlines, including Southwest Airlines’ new partnership with EVA Air, Frontier’s companion certificate promotion and status match, and JetBlue opening up award bookings with Condor Airlines.

Then, travel Nerd Craig Joseph joins Meghan to discuss NerdWallet’s latest airline, hotel, and credit card point valuations, with tips and tricks on comparing loyalty programs, maximizing transfer partners, and deciding when cash is more valuable than points. They also discuss the impact of devaluations, how close-in bookings can save you points, and why premium cabins can sometimes offer outsized redemption value. Plus: Craig’s hot take on airport lounges.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

Is the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard Worth Its Annual Fee? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/is-the-frontier-airlines-world-mastercard-worth-its-annual-fee

Citi Strata Credit Card Review: Solid Rewards for No Annual Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/citi-strata 

Citi Double Cash Review: A Solid Choice for Everyday Spending ​​https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/citi-double-cash 

Citi Custom Cash Card Review: Low-Maintenance 5% Cash Back https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/citi-custom-cash 

Citi Strata Premier: Big Rewards Across Top Spending Categories https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/citi-strata-premier 

Is the New Alaska Atmos Summit Card Worth a $395 Annual Fee? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/is-the-alaska-airlines-atmos-summit-card-worth-its-annual-fee 

Resources discussed in this episode:

Airline Miles vs. Cash Calculator https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/calculator-should-you-book-a-flight-with-cash-or-miles 

How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2025? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/airline-miles-and-hotel-points-valuations 

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.  

In this episode, the Nerds discuss: points and miles valuation, airline miles value, hotel points value, credit card points value, Southwest EVA Air partnership, Frontier Companion Certificate, JetBlue Condor award booking, Citi American Airlines transfer, Amex Membership Rewards value, Capital One points value, Bilt points value, Hyatt points value, Hilton points value, Marriott points value, Wyndham points value, IHG points value, Alaska miles value, JetBlue points value, American Airlines miles value, United miles value, Southwest points value, Virgin Atlantic miles value, ANA miles value, Avianca LifeMiles value, best way to use Amex points, best way to use Citi points, best way to use Capital One points, use cash or points for flights, last minute award flight value, premium cabin redemption value, economy flight points value, airline devaluation, hotel point devaluation, cash vs points travel booking, when to transfer credit card points, how to maximize travel rewards, and NerdWallet points and miles calculator.

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Learn how to get into airport lounges, stretch rewards for family travel, and score the best cruise deals from New York.

How can you get into airport lounges if you don’t have elite status? What’s the cheapest way to book a cruise from New York? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle dig into your questions about airport lounges, family travel, cruise deals, and Disney trips to help you plan your next adventure with confidence. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including drops in vacation rental occupancy, trending U.S. and international fall destinations, and which airlines and airports are offering the cheapest domestic and international flight deals.

Then, Meghan and Sally tackle listener questions on cruise timing, airport lounge access, and Disney planning. They explain how to maximize savings by booking during wave season, how to identify pay-as-you-go lounges when you don’t have status, and whether Disney’s dining and photo packages are worth it for families. They also explore strategies for booking award travel for groups, when to consider travel agents for Disney, and how curated hotel collections stack up. Listener tips round out the show, from thrifting travel wardrobes abroad to smart packing strategies that keep costs low and suitcases light.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve 

Capital One Venture X Review: A Worthy Option Among Premium Cards https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x 

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum 

Resources discussed in this episode:

Setting Sail in 2025? Here Are the Cheapest Months to Cruise https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/cheapest-month-cruise 

4 Workarounds to Book Your Holiday Vacation Rental With Points https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/4-workarounds-to-book-your-fall-vacation-rental-with-points 

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.  

In this episode, the Nerds discuss: New York cruise deals, best time to book a cruise, wave season cruise booking, cheap cruises from New York, cruise insurance hurricane season, airport lounges San Diego, pay as you go airport lounges, priority pass lounge access, family vacation booking with miles, booking hotels with points Europe, Hyatt points transfer value, vacation rentals with points, Expedia fall travel outlook, trending fall destinations 2025, cheapest airlines for domestic flights, cheapest airports for international flights, Southwest cheap flights, Orlando cheap flights Caribbean, cheap Cancun vacation rentals, Disney dining plan, Disney World meal plan, Disney Memory Maker photo package, Disney stroller rental tips, Disney travel agent vs booking direct, booking Disney with points, Disney world with toddlers, Amex fine hotels and resorts program, Capital One Premier Collection hotels, thrift store travel tips, packing light for Europe, travel tips for families, booking cruises on Black Friday, Travel Tuesday cruise deals, and cruise line email alerts.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Budget smarter for study abroad and learn how to cover costs with scholarships, aid, and credit cards. Plus: get the inside scoop on Alaska Airlines’ new premium airline credit card.

Can you save money by studying abroad? What scholarships and financial aid can actually cover international programs? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the costs and benefits of studying abroad. But first, they unpack the latest travel headlines, including Alaska Airlines’ new premium airline credit card, the Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® Credit Card, and the launch of Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines’ new Atmos Rewards program. They also share highlights from Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas cruise ship.

Then, NerdWallet writer Eliza Haverstock, who specializes in higher education and student loans, joins Meghan and Sally to explore study abroad planning, with tips and tricks on budgeting for overseas living, using scholarships and federal aid, and managing unexpected costs like visas and exchange rates. They also discuss student-friendly credit card options, strategies to build financial habits abroad, community college and short-term programs, and the long-term career and personal benefits of global experiences.

Take the Smart Travel Podcast Listener Survey 2025 and enter to win a prize! https://nerdwallet.com/travelsurvey 

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

Atmos Rewards Summit Credit Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/atmos-rewards-summit-credit-card 

Resources discussed in this episode:

Delta Companion Certificate: What You Need to Know https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/maximizing-the-delta-companion-fare 

Star of the Seas Review: Royal Caribbean’s Grandest Spectacle Yet https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/star-seas-royal-caribbean-review 

How to Pick Between Travel Credit Cards for Students for Study Abroad https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/how-to-pick-study-abroad-credit-card 

How Much Does It Cost To Study Abroad? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/loans/student-loans/how-much-does-it-cost-to-study-abroad 

Can College Abroad Actually Save You Money? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/loans/student-loans/college-abroad-costs 

Is Studying Abroad Worth It? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/loans/student-loans/is-studying-abroad-worth-it 

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.  

In this episode, the Nerds discuss: study abroad programs, how to pay for study abroad, study abroad scholarships, Benjamin Gilman Scholarship, federal student loans for study abroad, Pell Grants for study abroad, budgeting for study abroad, study abroad financial aid, study abroad costs, student credit cards abroad, best credit card for studying abroad, avoiding foreign transaction fees, budgeting tips for study abroad, study abroad housing costs, cost of living abroad for students, international student discounts, budgeting for international travel, study abroad visa fees, study abroad health insurance, using credit cards internationally, exchange rates study abroad, travel budgeting for students, short term study abroad programs, community college study abroad, direct enrollment study abroad, third party study abroad programs, exchange student program costs, financial planning for study abroad, saving money before study abroad, international travel on a student budget, affordable ways to study abroad, study abroad safety tips, student travel hacks, building credit while abroad, student budgeting tools, travel emergency funds, and study abroad career benefits.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to pack smarter and lighter with actionable tips to save money, avoid fees, and travel stress-free.

What travel gear can you stop packing to cut costs? How much money can you save by packing your luggage the right way? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss smart packing tips that could have a real impact on your travel spending. But first, Meghan covers the latest travel headlines with NerdWallet’s Tess Vigeland, including Southwest's free Wi-Fi trial for Rapid Rewards members, Alaska Airlines’ new routes to Europe, and Hyatt’s limited-time status match offer with American Airlines.

Then, Sally and Meghan dive deep into smarter packing habits, with tips and tricks on minimizing baggage fees, staying flexible on the road, and cutting out unnecessary items without sacrificing comfort. They also discuss how to access essentials from your hotel, when to rent clothing instead of buying, and what to leave behind to make space for souvenirs. They share how carry-on-only travel can lead to unexpected benefits, how to include hotel perks in your packing list, and when to splurge or skip based on your itinerary. 

Take the Smart Travel Podcast Listener Survey 2025 and enter to win a prize! https://nerdwallet.com/travelsurvey 

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

Cathay World Elite Review 2025: Is It Worth It for Asia Miles Earners? https://www.nerdwallet.com/ca/p/reviews/credit-cards/cathay-pacific-world-elite-mastercard 

Resources discussed in this episode:

5 Best Credit Card Points Programs and Who They Partner With https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/heres-how-you-can-transfer-your-points-from-any-major-credit-card-issuer 

Airline Credit Cards That Offer Free Checked Bags https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/airline-credit-cards-free-checked-bags 

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.  

Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code SMARTTRAVEL at checkout. Download Saily app or go to to https://saily.com/smarttravel

In this episode, the Nerds discuss: how to avoid airline baggage fees, how to pack light for travel, packing tips to save money, Alaska Airlines new international flights, carry-on packing tips, credit cards with free checked bags, elite hotel status match, laundry while traveling, what not to pack for vacation, how to pack a personal item only, travel freebies from hotels, hotel toiletries and freebies, hotel baby kits, how to use clothing rental for travel, what to leave behind when packing, carry-on vs checked bag costs, lightweight packing for Europe, reusable plastic bags for travel, using credit card rewards for flights, travel tips for frequent flyers, saving money on checked bags, packing minimalist travel, essentials vs just in case items, hotel perks for elite members, how to rent clothing for vacation, Rent the Runway for travel, and Nuuly clothing rental.

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Handle lost luggage like a pro with tips for getting reimbursed and packing smarter to avoid future headaches.

What should you do when your luggage disappears on an international trip? Which credit cards and travel insurance policies actually help when this happens? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss Meghan’s real-life saga of lost luggage on a trip to Italy, including how she tracked it down, got it back, and got reimbursed nearly $2,000. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including how changes in U.S. travel spending could lead to more travel deals, the latest late-summer travel deals, World of Hyatt glamping points deals, Disneyland’s limited-time ticket offer, and a new United Club lounge in Denver.

Then, Meghan and Sally dive deep into how to financially protect yourself from baggage mishaps. They share tips and tricks on choosing the right credit card for travel protections, tracking bags with AirTags, and getting reimbursed — even internationally. They also discuss travel insurance options, airline refund policies, packing strategies for high-stakes travel, and how to navigate lost-and-found drama abroad. 

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

12 Credit Cards That Provide Travel Insurance https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/credit-cards-that-provide-travel-insurance 

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum 

Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-preferred

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve 

Resources discussed in this episode:

Under Canvas Review: Glamping with Hyatt https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/under-canvas-review-glamping-with-hyatt 

Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Party: How to Join for Cheap https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/disneyland-70-anniversary 

First Look: United’s New Denver Club Is a Mountain Cabin Delight https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/first-look-uniteds-new-denver-club-is-a-mountain-cabin-delight 

The Best Days to Fly Around Labor Day in 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/the-best-days-to-fly-around-labor-day-in-2025 

How to Find the Best Travel Insurance https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/travel-insurance 

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.  

Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code SMARTTRAVEL at checkout. Download Saily app or go to to https://saily.com/smarttravel

In this episode, the Nerds discuss: lost luggage, airline lost baggage, delayed luggage reimbursement, baggage insurance, travel credit card protections, how to get money back for lost luggage, travel insurance coverage for luggage, best credit cards for lost luggage, travel protections credit card, AirTags for luggage, Apple AirTag airline tracking, carry-on vs checked bag, how to file a lost luggage claim, international travel luggage issues, how to pack for international travel, travel tips Italy, Florence travel tips, how to avoid lost luggage, Charles de Gaulle airport luggage, travel reimbursement for lost bag, travel insurance vs credit card insurance, Blue Ribbon Bags, how to get reimbursed for a lost suitcase, tracking lost luggage, airline compensation lost bag, filing an airline baggage claim, international wedding travel tips, best ways to travel light, and how to pack for a destination wedding.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Optimize your travel rewards strategy with the latest card and perk updates, smart downgrade-and-reapply moves, and tips for combining and redeeming points for maximum value.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle answer listener questions to help you travel smarter. But first, they share a ton of recent credit card news, including Citi launching a premium travel card with American Airlines transfer perks, a preview of Alaska Airlines’ upcoming premium card, and major Southwest card and benefit changes. They also cover Southwest’s open seating changes, Hilton’s luxury hotel performance, the Waldorf Astoria New York reopening , and Norwegian Cruise Line’s new water park in the Bahamas.

Then, they tackle questions like whether it’s smart to downgrade a credit card and reapply for the bonus, how to combine business and personal card points, which card to add to a travel rewards lineup, whether to redeem Chase points now or wait, and how to use both Amex and Chase points for award flights to Italy.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

New Citi Strata Elite Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/citi-debuts-strata-elite-credit-card⁠

Capital One Venture X Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x⁠

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve⁠

American Express Platinum Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum⁠

Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/southwest-rapid-rewards-plus⁠

Southwest Premier Credit Card Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/southwest-rapid-rewards-premier⁠

Southwest Priority Card Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/southwest-rapid-rewards-priority⁠

Alaska Airlines Credit Card Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/alaska-airlines-credit-card⁠

Chase Ink Preferred Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/small-business/chase-ink-preferred⁠

Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-preferred⁠

Hilton AmEx Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/hilton-amex-review⁠

Citi AAdvantage Platinum: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/citi-aadvantage-platinum⁠

Hilton AmEx Surpass Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/hilton-amex-ascend⁠

Hilton Honors Aspire Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/hilton-honors-aspire⁠

Chase Freedom Unlimited Review: ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-freedom-unlimited⁠

This show references a limited-time offer on Southwest credit cards. The offers expire on September 17, 2025. See NerdWallet’s reviews of the Southwest cards' current benefits, terms and fees:

⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/credit-cards/southwest-airlines-cards⁠

Additional resources in this episode:

Chase’s Points Boost on Flights Is a Massive Points Bust ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/chase-points-boost-is-a-points-bust⁠

Southwest changes ⁠https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/southwest-cards-hike-fees-and-welcome-offers-add-perks-and-bonus-categories⁠

Want more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? ⁠Subscribe to TravelNerd⁠, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on travel.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how new consumer protections can help you get refunds, rebook faster, and stress less when you fly.

What protections do you have if your flight is delayed, canceled, or your bag goes missing? How do you know if your airline will rebook you or leave you stranded? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle dive into a new report revealing which airlines get the most complaints and why more travelers are speaking up. But first, they unpack the latest travel news, including World of Hyatt’s new boutique hotel additions, American Express and American Airlines debuting grab-and-go lounge concepts, and Bilt Rewards launching a luxury hotel booking platform.

Then, Teresa Murray, consumer watchdog at the U.S. Public Interest Research Group Education Fund, joins Meghan and Sally to discuss new federal rules that give flyers stronger rights, clearer refund standards, and better support when things go wrong. They unpack the biggest traveler protections in decades, including automatic cash refunds for delays, a legal definition of “significant delay,” mandatory 24/7 customer support, and which airlines will rebook you with a competitor. To wrap the episode, Meghan and Sally answer a listener’s question about the Disney Dining Plan, including how to decide when it’s worth the cost, how to maximize snack credits, and which deal could let kids eat free in 2026.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

Citi AAdvantage Executive Review: Your Key to the Club https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/citi-aadvantage-executive 

Bilt Credit Card Review: Charge Rent and Earn Rewards https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/bilt-credit-card 

The Platinum Card® from American Express

https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum 

Resources discussed in this episode:

The Guide to World of Hyatt Brands https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/the-guide-to-world-of-hyatt-brands 

The Guide to Disney Dining Plans https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/guide-disney-dining-plan 

Hacking The Disney Dining Plan: Deal Hunter Saved $200 On Disney Food https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/hack-disney-dining-plan 

Disney World Free Dining Plan Offer for 2026 is Shockingly Good https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/disney-dining-plan-2026 

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.  

In this episode, the Nerds discuss: flight refund rules, flight cancellation compensation, new airline passenger protections 2024, DOT flight rights, how to get a refund for delayed baggage, how to avoid third-party booking scams, airline complaint statistics 2024, Disney Dining Plan review, Disney Dining Plan tips, how to save money on food at Disney World, Disney kids eat free deal, air travel consumer rights, best airline for fewest complaints, rebooking after flight cancellation, airport lounge grab and go, Bilt Rewards hotel booking, Admirals Club Provisions lounge, travel credit card perks 2024, how to avoid being bumped from a flight, flight rights dashboard, how to file an airline complaint, refund for delayed luggage, tips for using travel points on hotels, Disney World 2026 deals, passenger protections for wheelchair users, and overbooked flight compensation.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Plan smarter for your next trip to Italy with cost-saving tips and strategies to avoid common tourist traps.

When is the best time to visit Italy? How can you avoid overspending while still having an unforgettable experience? Hosts Megan Coyle and Sally French break down the logistics and hidden costs of traveling to Italy, from airfare and lodging to train travel and rental cars. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the TSA’s new no-shoe-removal-required policy for all travelers, Bilt’s plans for new credit cards, a new American Express Centurion Lounge in Amsterdam, and luxury air carrier JSX launching its first loyalty program. 

Then, Meghan shares insights from her two-week trip to Italy, covering where she went, how much it cost, how she got around, and what she’d do differently next time. She shares practical tips on avoiding fines on trains, booking affordable lodging, choosing the best time to visit, and navigating tourist-heavy cities without overpaying. Then, Eleonora Colamarino, better known as YourItalianBestie on Instagram and TikTok, joins Meghan to discuss how to visit Italy like a local. She shares strategies for finding hidden gem restaurants, avoiding overpriced destinations like the Amalfi Coast, and planning a more relaxed itinerary that leads to richer, more authentic travel moments.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

Bilt Credit Card Review: Charge Rent and Earn Rewards https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/bilt-credit-card 

Resources discussed in this episode:

Bilt Plans 3-Card Portfolio, With Annual Fees From $0 to $495 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/bilt-plans-3-card-portfolio-with-annual-fees-from-0-to-495 

Is JSX Hop-On Jet Service Worth the Cost? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/is-a-jsx-private-jet-worth-the-cost 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: Italy travel tips, best time to visit Italy, how to plan a trip to Italy, travel to Italy 2025, Italy travel costs, train travel in Italy, Italy trip itinerary, how much are hotels in Italy, affordable places to stay in Italy, Airbnb vs hotel Italy, monastery stays Italy, where to go in Italy, Florence travel guide, Rome travel tips, Cinque Terre travel, Venice gondola cost, validate train ticket Italy, regional trains vs high-speed Italy, TSA shoe removal policy, Centurion Lounge Amsterdam, JSX Club loyalty program, budget airlines to Italy, how to save on flights to Italy, avoid tourist traps in Italy, how to travel Italy like a local, best neighborhoods in Rome, Trastevere travel tips, Testaccio Market Rome, Amalfi Coast alternative, Puglia travel guide, and Umbria travel tips.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stretch your travel budget with smarter planning, real savings hacks, and $75-a-day global travel strategies.

Can you really see the world for just $75 a day? Can you cut travel costs without sacrificing comfort or experience? Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss planning a trip for less than $75 per day with Matt Kepnes, aka Nomadic Matt. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Uber’s new rental car delivery service and expanded shared rides from airports, Royal Caribbean’s launch of a private beach club in Nassau, The Bahamas, and major Amazon Prime Day travel deals like cruise discounts and free kids' fares.

Then, Matt joins Sally to discuss how financially savvy travelers can explore the world on a $75-a-day budget without roughing it. They cover how inflation has shaped modern budget travel, which global regions deliver the best value per dollar, and how to save big on food, lodging, and activities without sacrificing meaningful experiences. Matt also shares underrated travel tips, from asking locals where they eat to using Facebook groups to find budget-friendly accommodations and community.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

American Express Platinum Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve 

Resources discussed in this episode:

The Best Prime Day Travel Deals 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/best-prime-day-travel-deals-2025 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: budget travel, how to travel cheap, best budget destinations, travel rewards credit cards, Amazon Prime Day travel deals, travel points, saving money on travel, Southeast Asia travel, budget Europe travel, affordable international trips, cruise deals 2025, Uber Rent with car delivery, airport Uber hacks, Royal Caribbean beach club, travel credit card perks, Airbnb rooms vs hostels, home exchange travel, tourism office tips, travel Facebook groups, digital nomad tips, affordable family travel, saving for travel, how to find cheap flights, best countries for budget travel, how to track travel expenses, remote work travel tips, hostel tips, Southeast Asia backpacking, five block rule travel tip, international travel cost breakdown, and affordable beach vacations.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn what it’s like working with a travel advisor, including how much time and money they can really save you when planning your next trip.

Can travel advisors really save you money? Should you be booking travel yourself or outsourcing the job to a professional? Hosts Megan Coyle and Sally French discuss the unexpected perks, cost structures, and potential savings of working with a travel advisor, formerly known as a travel agent. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including record-setting Fourth of July travel projections, a JetBlue challenge offering up to $5,250 in bonus points, and why the new “Points Boost” travel redemption feature from Chase may be more hype than help.

Then, Jenn Lee, President and CMO of Travel Planners International and Vacation Planners, joins Sally to discuss what today’s travel advisors actually do — and why their role has evolved far beyond just booking flights. They explore when it makes sense to use a travel advisor, how they get paid, and how they can unlock deep discounts and luxury perks you likely can’t find online. From pre-paid cruise cabins and group hotel rates to emergency support during canceled flights, Jenn shares the behind-the-scenes benefits that could make hiring an advisor a smarter and more cost-effective way to plan your next trip.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve

Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-preferred

Chase Ink Preferred Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/small-business/chase-ink-preferred

Chase Launches New Sapphire Reserve for Business Card With 200K Point Bonus Offer https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/small-business/new-sapphire-reserve-business 

Chase Freedom Unlimited Review: A Potential One-Card Solution https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-freedom-unlimited 

Resources discussed in this episode:

Best Credit Cards of July 2025: https://www.nerdwallet.com/the-best-credit-cards 

9 Best Business Credit Cards of July 2025: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/credit-cards/small-business 

The Best Prime Day Travel Deals 2025: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/best-prime-day-travel-deals-2025 

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: travel agent vs booking yourself, travel advisor savings, JetBlue Mosaic 1 status, best travel credit cards 2025, Chase Ultimate Rewards changes, travel insurance tips, Amazon Prime Day travel deals, travel agent free hotel perks, travel concierge services, travel advisor costs, travel agent commissions, best river cruises Europe, travel agent hotel upgrades, saving on cruises 2025, travel packages savings, booking international travel, avoiding travel planning mistakes, travel planning help, VIP travel perks, Airbnb travel perks, Airbnb late checkout tips, credit card travel benefits, booking luxury travel with advisor, travel mistakes relying on Instagram, when to use a travel agent, travel agent vs AI planning, and the benefits of travel advisors.

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