2025 and 2026: Points, Miles & Future Adventures | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast

Welcome to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast with Justin Vacula, where we share practical ways to make and save money on travel using credit card points, airline miles, hotel points, casino comps, and loyalty program strategies.

In this episode, co-host Darren joins Justin for a year-in-review conversation covering wins from travel hacking in 2025, plus a forward-looking game plan for 2026 travel. We break down how we used points and miles for flights and hotels, how status and credits can reduce trip costs, and what’s coming next, including Atlantis (Bahamas), Las Vegas, Southeast Asia, and Australia.

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⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast

00:35 Meet the Hosts and Episode Overview

02:27 Favorite Trips of 2025

03:33 Using Points and Miles for Family Trips

05:04 Memorable Events and Cruises in 2025

08:23 Upcoming Trips and Plans for 2026

11:48 Vegas Trips and Status Matches

16:08 Future Meetups and Events

23:31 Southeast Asia Family Trip

24:08 Maximizing Membership Rewards

24:27 Booking Flights and Hotels

25:20 Planning the Itinerary

26:28 Using Credits and Rewards

27:43 Travel Tips and Recommendations

30:49 Credit Card Strategies

33:06 Beach Trips and Scuba Diving

37:46 Listener Questions and Advice

43:27 Upcoming Plans and New Cards

45:25 Conclusion

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