Learn what 2026 status program changes mean for perks like upgrades, rebooking help, and lounges.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French talk through the latest elite status updates to help you decide when they’re worth chasing. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the U.K.’s electronic travel authorization (ETA) enforcement starting Feb. 25, 2026, a Hawaiian Airlines credit card giveaway offering chances to win 1 million points, Disney’s leadership change and new earnings highlights, and signs that luxury travel demand may be softening in 2026.

Then, joined by fellow travel Nerd Benjamin Din, they discuss what’s changing for airline and hotel elite status in 2026, including how status is increasingly tied to spending and credit cards, when a status match challenge can be a shortcut, and how to choose a program based on your home airport and travel patterns. They also dig into updates across major programs including Southwest, American, United, and JetBlue, in addition to hotel shifts at Hilton, Hyatt, and Choice. Plus: what it really takes to earn United’s Million Miler milestone, including how lifetime status can change the way you book flights and hotels.

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

5 Things to Know About the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard 

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card 

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Credits 

Hilton Honors Aspire Review: Rich Rewards, Luxury Perks for a Price 

World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost 

United Club Infinite Review: $695 Fee May Still Lure Lounge Lovers 

IHG One Rewards Premier Review: Free Nights on a Silver Platter 

Best Airline Credit Cards of February 2026

Best Hotel Credit Cards of February 2026 

Resources discussed in this episode:

Airline Credit Cards That Offer Free Checked Bags

Which Credit Card Is Best for International Award Travel?

The 5 Best Credit Cards with Hotel Status

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.

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Get a clearer way to compare hotel prices with and without credit card program perks.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss when it makes sense to book luxury hotels through credit card travel portals so you can decide if perks like breakfast, upgrades and $100 credits are actually worth the tradeoffs. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the new Disney Inspire Visa from Chase, an American Express transfer-ratio change to Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, new Centurion Lounge access limits starting July 8, and a new round of airline competition at Chicago O’Hare after comments from United CEO Scott Kirby.

Then, joined by fellow travel Nerd Craig Joseph, they unpack a NerdWallet analysis comparing prices when booking directly vs. booking through Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts, Amex The Hotel Collection, and Chase’s The Edit. They discuss what to check before you click “book,” how to think about the real value of “free” breakfast and property credits, and how points, statement credits and loyalty numbers can change the math — especially when you’re dealing with prepaid rates and limited hotel options.

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/credit-cards/reviews/chase-sapphire-reserve 

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

Chase Freedom Review: Legacy Card’s 5% Categories Endure https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/chase-freedom 

Disney Visa: Perks in the Park but Not in Your Wallet https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/disney-visa 

Disney Premier Visa: Missing the Magic https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/disney-premier-visa 

Amazon Prime Visa Review: Perhaps the Ultimate Store Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/amazon-prime-rewards 

Target Circle Credit Card Review: 5% Discount and No Annual Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/target-redcard 

New Disney Inspire Credit Card: Valuable Credits Offset $149 Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/news/disney-inspire-credit-card-big-fee-bigger-credits 

Resources discussed in this episode:

Chase Sapphire Reserve’s Hotel Credit Just Got an ‘Edit’ https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/news/chase-sapphire-reserve-the-edit-hotel-credit 

AmEx Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection: Worth the Price? https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/amex-fhr-thc-worth-it 

Are Chase’s The Edit Hotels Worth It? Here’s What the Data Says https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/chase-the-edit-hotels-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. 

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Learn how a points pro mapped a six-continent route to score 1 million Turkish Airlines miles.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French talk to Ashley Peterson, founder of Ashley Gets Around, about how she became a “points millionaire” while traveling across the globe. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including winter storm flight cancellations and airline waivers, new restrictions and options tied to Bilt Cash, Citi ThankYou Rewards dropping Aeromexico as a transfer partner, upcoming Capital One lounge access changes for authorized users, and Hilton’s new Apartment Collection.

Then, Meghan talks to Ashley Peterson about Turkish Airlines’ six-continent promo that earned her 1 million miles. They discuss what it takes to plan a “wackadoodle” route, how starting outside the U.S. and switching airports can change the price, and what to watch for with business-class seat setups and redemption rules once the miles finally hit your account.

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

Capital One Venture X Review: A Steal of a Deal Among Premium Cards

Capital One Venture X Business: A Premium Business Travel Card Worth the Annual Fee

Bilt Card From Wells Fargo: No Longer Available, but New Versions Coming

Bilt’s 3 New Cards Earn Rewards on Housing, But It’s Complicated

Resources discussed in this episode:

The Guide to Bilt Transfer Partners

5 Best Credit Card Points Programs and Who They Partner With

Venture X Card to Drop Free Lounge Access for Guests, Authorized Users

Smart Travel Episode about Bilt’s new cards

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.

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Find out if Bilt’s new credit cards are worth the hassle for earning points on rent or a mortgage.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle dive deep into the Bilt Card 2.0 Program to explain what’s changed and what to consider before signing up. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including a World of Hyatt Credit Card welcome offer that can earn up to five free nights, what Southwest’s assigned seating rollout means for travelers, the cost (and extra time) of flying without a Real ID, and how you can enter to win a free 1:1 travel rewards strategy coaching session with NerdWallet credit card and travel rewards expert Erin Hurd.

Then, Sally and Meghan dig into Bilt’s three new credit cards and a rewards system that now includes two currencies: Bilt Points and Bilt Cash. They walk through the big questions listeners have been asking, including when it makes sense to earn on rent, what’s really going on with mortgage rewards, and why the new math (plus shifting details) could change whether you jump in now or wait. Along the way, they weigh the annual-fee tradeoffs, compare Bilt’s new lineup to familiar fan favorites, and share what to watch for as the rollout keeps evolving.

Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter, by January 30 for a chance to win a 1:1 travel rewards strategy coaching session (est. value $250). Learn more at https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel-newsletter-2 

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

Best Southwest Airlines Credit Cards of February 2026

Bilt Card From Wells Fargo: No Longer Available, but New Versions Coming 

Bilt’s 3 New Cards Earn Rewards on Housing, But It’s Complicated 

World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost

Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards

Capital One Venture X Review: A Steal of a Deal Among Premium Cards

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

Resources discussed in this episode:

7 Best Hyatt Category 4 Hotels

Dear Bilt Palladium: You’re Welcome to Move in, but You Won’t Pay the Rent

Bilt Palladium vs. Capital One Venture X: An In-Depth Comparison

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Build a credit card lineup that earns more travel rewards without becoming a full-time spreadsheet manager.

In this special video episode, hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how to build the perfect travel credit card “wallet” to help you earn more rewards, unlock perks, and avoid common points mistakes. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Bilt’s revamped card lineup and new “Bilt Cash,” American Airlines rolling out free high-speed Wi-Fi, Alaska Airlines’ major fleet and route expansion plans, and Starlux’s new long-haul aircraft that could open up new routes (and new ways to book with points).

Then, Sally and Meghan dig into what a “perfect wallet” actually looks like for different travelers, including when it makes sense to add a second card, how multiple cards can affect your credit score, and why a simple “great-on-everything” card can be the foundation for most people. They also explore when premium “coupon book” cards are worth the stress, how to avoid spreading your points too thin across too many programs, and how popular combos like the Chase trifecta can help you earn faster. Plus, they answer a listener question from Tu, a self-described international nomad, about what — if any — cards would be helpful to add to their wallet when traveling internationally. 

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

Bilt Card From Wells Fargo: No Longer Available, but New Versions Coming 

Wells Fargo Autograph® Card Review: Big Rewards, No Annual Fee 

Capital One Venture X Review: A Steal of a Deal Among Premium Cards 

American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits 

Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards 

Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card 

Chase Freedom Unlimited Review: A Potential One-Card Solution 

Chase Freedom Flex Review: Multiple Bonus Rewards Wrapped in One Card

Citi AAdvantage Platinum Card Review: Worth the Fee for Airline Loyalists

Capital One Savor Review: Foodie-Focused Rewards, for No Annual Fee

Amazon Prime Visa Review: Perhaps the Ultimate Store Card

World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost

Hilton Honors Aspire Review: Rich Rewards, Luxury Perks for a Price

Atmos Rewards Summit Card: Perks as Rare as They Are Valuable

Resources discussed in this episode:

Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter, by January 30 for a chance to win a 1:1 travel rewards strategy coaching session (est. value $250). Learn more at https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel-newsletter-2

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Travel TV icon Samantha Brown shares tips for finding hidden gems, saving money, and dodging airport stress.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle sit down with Samantha Brown, host of Samantha Brown’s Places to Love, to talk about how she keeps travel feeling fun, affordable, and deeply local after decades on the road. But first, Sally and Meghan swap recent trip highlights, including a car-free weekend in Oceanside, California, and the growing trend of nighttime “glow” events at zoos and botanical gardens.

Then, Samantha Brown shares what she looks for when she’s wandering side streets, how “travel like a local” changed after COVID, and where she actually splurges (and saves) on trips. She also gets real about points and miles for inflexible schedules, her approach to airline loyalty, the airport habits that help her manage travel anxiety, her favorite airport, a controversial boarding tip for families, and the Route 66 stops she thinks deserve way more love.

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: side street travel strategy, supporting local small businesses while traveling, Ted Drewes frozen custard concrete, badminton hall Zurich, Dolly Parton bar decor, Vienna intergenerational cafe Vollpension, retirees baking cafe Vienna, hotel night before early arrival, red-eye early check-in strategy, fourth night free hotel points, fifth night free hotel points, Hilton fifth night free, Marriott fifth night free, hotel no-show policy late arrival, call the hotel front desk late arrival, last-minute award seats, protected backup flight strategy, booking backup flights on different airlines, Lufthansa last-minute availability, Delta Sky Club LaGuardia, Tampa International Airport, Washington Dulles people movers, Dulles mobile lounge story, duty free perfume shopping, checked bags vs carry-on debate, what to pack in case luggage is lost, Abu Dhabi vs Dubai travel value, Disney park Abu Dhabi, Oman travel, overtourism fatigue, avoiding “look-at-me” destinations, and travel and human connection vs AI.

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If 2025 was about premium everything and complicated travel perks, 2026 is shaping up to be more intentional: fewer trips, less algorithm-chasing, more ease — and spending where it actually improves your experience.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French ring in 2026 by looking back at the biggest travel and credit card trends of 2025 — from the “everything is fancy” luxury boom (even at Southwest) to the rise of premium card coupon-book benefits and hyper-granular dynamic pricing. Then, they share their 2026 predictions (skipping the algorithm, easy/slow travel, and fewer-but-bigger international trips) plus destination picks spanning South Korea, Eastern Europe, New Zealand, some World Cup host cities, Route 66, and comeback cities like San Francisco.

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

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

Citi Strata Elite Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/citi-strata-elite 

Resources discussed in this episode:

2025 Holiday Spending Report: https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/studies/holiday-spending-report 

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: Smart Travel podcast, travel trends 2025, travel predictions 2026, luxury travel trends, premium airline cabins, lie-flat seats, Southwest Airlines changes, Southwest open seating ending, Southwest airline lounge, international airline partners, hotel luxury boom, boutique hotels, lifestyle hotels, all-inclusive resorts, luxury cruises, Ritz-Carlton cruise, Four Seasons yacht, ship within a ship cruise concept, MSC Yacht Club, Norwegian Cruise Line Haven, Princess Cruises, travel credit card trends, premium travel credit cards, coupon book credit cards, Amex Platinum benefits, Chase Sapphire Reserve credits, Citi Strata Elite, travel rewards points, airport lounge access, TSA PreCheck credit, travel insurance benefits, dynamic pricing travel, AI pricing travel, rising travel costs, inflation travel, NerdWallet travel survey, skipping the algorithm travel, TikTok travel trends, Instagram travel inspiration, overtourism destinations, slow travel, easy travel, fewer international trips, best places to travel 2026, South Korea travel, Seoul travel, K-pop travel tourism, Eastern Europe travel, Prague travel, Budapest travel, Krakow travel, Sofia Bulgaria travel, affordable Europe travel, New Zealand travel, Air New Zealand SkyNest, long-haul flights New Zealand, Mexico travel 2026, Guadalajara travel, Monterrey travel, World Cup host cities travel, Route 66 road trip, Route 66 centennial, Flagstaff dark sky city, Grand Canyon road trip, Las Vegas travel deals, Vegas resort fees, San Antonio travel, Pearl District San Antonio, Hotel Emma San Antonio, Michelin star dessert bar, Salt Lake City travel, Utah skiing travel, dirty soda Utah, San Francisco travel comeback, easy day tours travel.

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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. 

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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“Amazing Race” host Phil Keoghan shares what he’s learned from his life of travel in this special presentation of “Powering Travel” from Expedia Group.

In an inspired conversation about the lessons he’s learned from a lifetime of travel, Phil joins host Elisabeth Goodridge to reflect on his earliest memories abroad and how exposure to diverse cultures shaped his worldview. He shares personal stories from the road, reflections on hosting more than 37 seasons of “The Amazing Race,” and how the show has encouraged millions to step outside their comfort zone. Phil also speaks to the magic that exists beyond group tours and why the moments when things go “wrong” often become the most meaningful memories. 

Looking for 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. 

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Learn how same-day flight changes and standby can save you money when your travel plans suddenly change.

In this special video episode, hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle dive into last-minute travel rules, exploring when you can make a same-day flight switch, what “standby” really means, and how fees and policies differ from airline to airline. But first, they break down the week’s travel headlines, including Delta’s “Centennial Cheer” holiday kindness campaign, the upcoming closure of the Chase Sapphire Lounge in Hong Kong, new lounge openings in Las Vegas and beyond, and a wave of ultra-luxury hotel growth from Hilton, Marriott and Hyatt. They also share year-end reminders about expiring credit card travel credits, elite status deadlines, and why some travelers consider mileage or mattress runs before December 31.

Then, Meghan and Sally unpack last-minute flight changes and standby strategy, with tips and tricks on using miles and card perks to salvage missed flights, knowing when same-day confirmed changes are a better bet than standby, and navigating very different policies at Southwest, American, United, Delta, Alaska, Spirit and Frontier. They walk through which airlines shine for free or low-cost same-day changes, which bury you in fees, and how elite status and fare class affect your place on the list. You’ll also learn practical tactics like getting on the standby list early, traveling carry-on only, reading waitlists in real time on apps, and deciding when to give up and stick with your original flight — plus a quick hot take on hotel TVs that turn on the second you open the door.

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 

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

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

United Quest Card: Piles of Perks and Credits, $350 Annual Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/united-quest 

Best Delta Air Lines Credit Cards of December 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/best/delta-airlines-cards 

Atmos Rewards Summit Card: Perks as Rare as They Are Valuable https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/atmos-rewards-summit 

Resources discussed in this episode:

I Missed My Flight. My United Quest Card Saved the Day. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/i-missed-my-flight-my-united-quest-card-saved-the-day 

The Best Airline Elite Status for 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/which-airline-has-the-most-valuable-elite-status-program 

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: same day flight change, same-day confirmed flight change, airline standby rules, how airline standby works, standby list strategy, last-minute flight changes, missed flight what to do, Southwest same day change policy, American Airlines same day change, United standby list, Delta same day standby, Delta Basic Economy standby, Alaska Airlines same day change, Frontier standby fees, Spirit Airlines change fees, budget airlines change fees, mileage run vs elite status value, year end credit card benefits, expiring travel credits December 31, airline fee credits, hotel credits on travel cards, Chase Sapphire Reserve lounge access, Capital One Venture X lounge access, Alaska Atmos Summit card same day change benefit, using miles for last minute flights, and last minute award flight deals.

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