The Upgraded Points Podcast

Think hotel elite perks are only for top-tier travelers? Think again.

In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie reveal insider tips on how to unlock elite hotel benefits—like room upgrades, late checkout, and free breakfast—even if you don’t have elite status. From smart booking strategies to credit cards that do the heavy lifting, they break down how you can travel like a VIP without the years of loyalty.

You’ll also hear personal travel updates, underrated booking tips, and answers to listener questions in the Q&A segment.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: 
[0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 18

[1:04] Travel updates from Chris and Katie

[8:21]  Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts

[15:00] Chase The Edit

[17:49] Virtuoso

[27:00] Credit that give you elite status

[30:20] Listener Q&A

Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.

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Big hotel brands are getting a boutique glow-up, and now your points can unlock some seriously stylish stays. In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, we break down the key differences between Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) and Mr & Mrs Smith hotels, plus how to book them with points through Hyatt and Hilton.

We also cover the latest travel news: a new promo code for Roame, fresh lounge designs that ease crowding, and a brand-new credit card worth a look. And as always, we answer your listener questions.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: 

[0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 17

[1:30] Airport lounges just might become less crowded

[7:40] SLH vs Mr & Mrs Smith Hotels

[13:49] Katie shares about her experience staying in a Mr & Mrs Smith Hotel

[17:52] Malliouhana in Anguilla hotel was a SLH and has changed to Mr & Mrs Smith

[21:20] Hotel Manapany in St. Barts

[24:23] Q&A

Roame.Travel promo code: save 15% off a Friends of Roame subscription using code UPGRADEDPOINTS

Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.

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Sailrock South Caicos Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/what-to-know-sailrock-resort-south-caicos/
Maliouhana Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/malliouhana-anguilla-review/
Hotel Manapany Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/hotel-manapany-st-barts/

Looking for credit cards that don’t charge an annual fee but do offer real value? In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down the best no-annual-fee cards for both personal and business use. They also cover the new TSA shoe removal rule, listener Q&A, and smart tips to help you choose the right $0 annual fee card for travel, rewards, or cash back.

Whether you're just starting out or optimizing your setup, this one’s for you.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:
[0:00]  The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 16
[1:15]  TSA ends “Shoes-Off” policy
[2:11]  Hotel Zachary, Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel Review
[4:25]  Our favorite $0 annual fee cards
[10:50]  Best no annual fee cards for everyday spend
[13:10]  Best no annual fee cards for rent
[14:10]  Best no annual fee cards for lounge access
[16:00]  Best no annual fee airline and hotel cards
[21:44]  Best no annual fee business cards
[27:00]  Listener Q&A

Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.

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In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Katie and Chris uncover the most common mistakes beginners make when redeeming credit card points and miles — and how to avoid them. From picking poor-value redemptions to misunderstanding sign-up bonuses and how they impact your credit score, they explain the rookie traps that can cost you big.

You’ll also learn how to calculate cents-per-point value, strategies to use your points smarter, and answers to real listener questions to help you level up your travel rewards game and get the most from every mile.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 15
[01:11] Chase/Marriott Status Promotion
[05:16] Beginner Tips For Redeeming Points
[09:04] Different types of points and miles
[12:37] Credit card welcome bonuses
[15:11] Credit score impact
[18:50] How to redeem these points
[22:40] Cents per point
[24:50] What beginners should know about points
[31:21] Q&A Time

Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.

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In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Katie and Chris are diving deep into the latest buzz in the world of travel and points—and there’s big news for American Express cardholders.

Chris kicks things off with updates on his upcoming trip to Japan, sharing more details on his exciting itinerary. Meanwhile, Katie takes us back in time with stories from her stay at a historic hotel in Panama City, offering insights for travelers who love unique accommodations.

They also take us behind the scenes at Copa Airlines, where Katie visited flight training facilities and learned firsthand what it takes to become a flight attendant.

But the real headline is the shifting landscape of American Express. Katie and Chris discuss Amex’s new “As High As” welcome offers, changes to the Amex Business Platinum card’s 35% points rebate, and predictions about anticipated changes to the Amex Platinum card. , 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: 

[0:00] Chris booked more of his trip to Japan. 

[2:45] Katie’s stay at Hotel La Compania in Panama City. 

[6:18] Copa Airlines flight training and flight attendant training visit.

[8:40] American Express has new “As High As” welcome offers.

[10:32] Changes to the Amex Business Platinum’s 35% points rebate.

[13:42] Upcoming changes to the Amex Platinum card.

[19:14] Q&A: What happens to my points if I cancel my credit card?

[20:51] Q&A: What is the biggest mistake people make with points and miles?

[22:54] Q&A: Am I eligible for a Sapphire Reserve card if I already have a Sapphire Preferred card?

Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.

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Welcome to The Upgraded Points Podcast, where hosts Katie and Chris break down everything you need to know about traveling smarter, flying better, and making the most of your credit card points. From insider airline updates to the best cards for travel perks, they’ve got your journey covered, no gate changes required.

In this episode, we learn about the one promo you could use to help lock in elite airline status for the next 25 years, as well as some new Delta Sky Club lounges that have recently opened. Another big topic for this podcast is whether the Chase Sapphire Reserve card is worth it after all the changes recently made.

Whether you're a seasoned points hacker or just getting started, Katie and Chris are your go-to crew for tips, news, and travel hacks that can upgrade your adventures.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: 

[0:00] Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 13

[1:07] JetBlue promo to earn 350k points and elite status for 25 years

[4:18] New Delta Sky Club lounges

[6:22] Chase Sapphire Reserve card changes

[16:08] Timeline for the Chase Sapphire Reserve changes

[19:54] Is the card still worth it?

[24:33] Answering listener  questions

Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.

Follow us!

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris kicks things off with how he cleverly redeemed credits and points—plus, he shares a wild story about flying on a plane that looks like a turtle (yes, really!). Katie dives into her recent trip to Europe, breaking down exactly how she booked it using points and sharing savvy tips to help you save big on your own European getaway.

After a quick break, Katie continues her travel recap with more helpful advice and real-world takeaways. Finally, Chris and Katie answer listener questions about maximizing points, partner airlines, and how to stretch your miles even further.

Whether you’re dreaming of Europe or just curious about the quirks of aviation, this episode is packed with insider info, laughs, and practical advice to help you travel smarter.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: 

[0:00] Teaser and introduction

[1:11] Chris talks about how he used his United credits to book an ANA flight from Hawaii to Japan. 

[6:21] Katie discusses booking her trip to Europe (Frankfurt and Amsterdam, specifically) and how it went, giving tips for others to save more on their trips.

Get the details of another trip to Europe that Katie booked with points and miles:

https://upgradedpoints.com/news/week-in-europe-points-miles/

This week-long trip had a value (for flights and hotels) of just over $14,000, but Katie spent just $1,172 out of pocket.

[12:36] Break time

[12:51] Katie continues talking about her trip to Europe after the break.

Andaz Amsterdam Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/andaz-amsterdam-prinsengracht-review/

[25:10] The hosts answers viewers' questions about points and miles.

How to pool airline and hotel points and miles: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/airlines-hotels-pool-points-miles/

Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.

Follow us!

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

In this episode, Chris and Katie take you through their latest travel experiences and dive deep into the world of airport lounge access. Chris shares what it was like flying with Copa Airlines, while Katie talks about scoring an upgrade with American Airlines in Charlotte.

They then explore which credit cards offer the best lounge access, why lounge perks matter for frequent travelers, and which cards are dropping lounge privileges. From the premium American Express Platinum to a no-annual fee card that comes with lounge access, they break down options for every type of traveler.

Plus, Katie reveals a savvy trick for getting the most out of “Grab and Go” offerings at Delta Sky Clubs—enough to feed two people! The episode wraps up with a listener Q&A, so don’t miss it.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: 

[0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 11

[0:30] Introduction

[1:08] Chris talks about his experience flying with Copa Airlines

[4:34] Katie shares about a recent upgrade she had while flying on American Airlines.

[8:14] What credit card should you get for the best lounge access, why travelers would want to have good lounge access, including some cards that are lounge access policies.

[15:47] Chris discusses the American Express Platinum card.

[17:52] Katie brings up another card that offers lounge access without an annual fee. 

[19:15] Credit cards that allow travelers to get into airline-specific lounges.

[24:42] Katie talks about her experience with using Delta Sky Club’s “Grab and Go” option and how travelers can get enough food for two people if they plan smartly.

[27:04] Recap: best credit cards for lounge access

[27:20] Listener question

Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.

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Best Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access: https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/lounge-access/

In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie share their top business class redemptions that you can actually book with points and miles in 2025, including options on American Airlines, Qatar Qsuites, ANA, Japan Airlines, Condor, and more.

Whether you're planning a dream trip to Japan or want a lie-flat seat across the Atlantic, you'll hear real booking examples, points prices, and firsthand tips to help you book smarter.

They also break down the CLEAR Plus price increase, how to get discounts (or even free memberships) through credit cards and airline status, and which travel perks are actually worth it.

Finally, they answer a listener's question: Are points only useful if you book last minute? Find out how to make the most of your points no matter when your travel is for. 

Timestamps:

[0:00] Welcome! Chris and Katie kick things off with a fun routing tip—how a stopover in Hawaii could score you a cheaper business class flight to Japan.

[1:00] CLEAR Plus membership is getting a price hike starting in July. Chris explains the new pricing, while Katie shares how to get CLEAR for free or at a discount using credit cards or airline status programs.

[4:10] Chris and Katie start digging into their favorite business class redemptions booked with points, starting with Qatar Airways Qsuites..

[6:30] How to find award space, what makes ANA’s business class special, and why flying from Hawaii can save you a lot. Booking tips for Japan Airlines, Condor, and KLM, plus the importance of using tools like seats.aero to find award space.

[10:00] Why same-itinerary bookings from smaller airports can be a game changer, especially when flights get disrupted.

[13:45] How to find these flights yourself, setting award alerts, and using the right tools.

[15:45] Listener question: Are points only useful if you book at the last minute? Tips for planners and smart redemptions with a 5 to 6 month lead.

[17:00] Final thoughts + wrap-up: Expand your search, sign up for the newsletter, and make your points go further.

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/upgradedpointspod

Want to unlock business class for economy prices? Sign up for our free award alerts newsletter and follow us for the latest deals, guides, and tips.

Looking for the best tools to search for award flights and hotels?

In this episode of the Upgraded Points Podcast, we break down the top award flight search tools we personally use to book award travel with points and miles. From free options to paid platforms, we’ll show you what each one does best, plus share a discount for our favorite tool: Seats.aero.

Chris and Katie also share recent travel updates, including theme park trips (Disneyland vs. Epic Universe) and a visit to Greenville, South Carolina. We wrap up with a listener question about speculative point transfers - specifically, whether it’s a good idea to transfer Amex Membership Rewards to Hawaiian in order to take advantage of the Alaska loophole that is closing soon!

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: 

[0:00] Introduction

[1:00] Last week, Chris visited Disney Land for Disney’s 70th anniversary celebration. The celebration is running through the summer of 2026. Next, he went back to Epic Universe for their opening.

[3:27] Katie recently went back to Greenville, South Carolina. She was invited by the Visit Greenville, SC, to go to the BMW Performance Driving Center. She stayed at the AC Hotel in downtown Greenville. 

[7:34] The main topic of today’s episode is award search tools. Katie’s favorite is seats.aero, which allows users to search flight options. The pro version is $9.99 per month. Through June 30, 2025, save 20% on an annual subscription with the code UPGRADEDPOINTS.

[11:30] There are lots of award search tools to choose from. One of the most popular is Point.me, which allows you to search over one hundred airlines. 

[12:26] Another good tool is Points Yeah, which is free with unlimited searches but has a premium version. Roame is similar, but is a bit more polished. 

[13:49] Last fall, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines merged and introduced the ability to transfer points between them. Now through June 30th, you can transfer Amex points to Hawaiian, and then to Alaska. Normally, we do not recommend transferring points speculatively. However, Alaska’s program is good enough to make the transfer worth it. 

Read about the best food in every world in Epic Universe: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/universal-epic-universe-best-food/ 

Use the seats.aero promo code mentioned in the episode: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/seats-aero-promo-code/ 

Read Katie’s review of the Grand Bohemian Lodge in Greenville, South Carolina: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/grand-bohemian-lodge-greenville-autograph-collection-review/ 

Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ 

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Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/upgradedpointspod