Travel Party of 5 | Points & Miles for Family Travel

Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using points and miles and we share how we leverage credit card offers to earn a ton of points/miles so we can afford travel as a larger family.

Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5

Click here to apply for our favorite points - we used these points to book our flights to Paris next year for all 5 of us!  And if you've already got one of the Chase Sapphire cards, you'll want to apply for these business cards, linked here. 

For all the cards we recommend beyond Chase, those are linked here. 

**Some links may be affiliate links which means we make a small commission if you choose to book through those links. Thank you for supporting our free content by using these links <3**

In today's episode I am sharing my first-time business class journey on an Air France flight from Paris to Phoenix, including the process of how I upgraded from economy to business class. ensuring you never miss out on the comfort and luxury of premium travel. 

In this episode of the Travel Party of Five podcast, join us as we dive into the world of Air France Business Class, sharing our experiences to help families make the most of their travel adventures using points and miles.

I am sharing my first-time business class journey on an Air France flight from Paris to Phoenix, including the process of how I upgraded from an economy ticket using a combination of points and a last-minute cash payment. 

We're also sharing all the family-friendly benefits Air France offers families, especially when booking on points, such as a 25% discount on award bookings for kids and guaranteed seating together without extra fees. Learn how we booked an economy flight from Chicago to Paris for just 85,000 points! If you're planning a family trip to Europe, this episode is for you. 

We also discuss the availability of award seats on Air France Business Class. Unlike many airlines that limit the number of award seats, Air France often has multiple seats available, making it easier for larger families to secure business class tickets using points. 

Another standout feature of Air France is their commitment to seating families together. Unlike some airlines that charge extra for seat selection, Air France guarantees that parents and children will be seated together without any additional fees. 

The episode wraps up with a discussion on the ease of accumulating Air France Flying Blue points. As a transfer partner of all four major banks (Chase, American Express, Capital One, and Citi), Air France offers numerous opportunities to earn and combine points. Transfer bonuses often sweeten the deal, allowing families to accumulate the necessary points for Air France Business Class flights more quickly and efficiently.

Whether you’re dreaming of flying Air France Business Class or simply looking for a reliable and family-friendly airline for your next European vacation, this episode is packed with tips, personal experiences, and expert advice. Tune in to learn how to make the most of your points and miles, and start planning your unforgettable family journey with Air France.

As always, if you have questions or need more information, feel free to reach out to Raya and Duane on Instagram at @TravelParty5. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a rating on Spotify or a review on iTunes. Thank you for listening, and happy travels!

Cardpointers
MaxRewards
Travel Freely
Rocket Money

Max My Point
Point.me
PointsYeah.com

Ever felt overwhelmed by the world of credit card points and miles? Me too! It can be A LOT. Fortunately we've found some apps to help us manage this hobby and they've really made it super easy. This episode is all about getting yourself organized in the world of credit card points and miles. We are sharing our favorite tools, like Rocket Money, that streamline your budgeting by importing and categorizing all your transactions. We’ll also touch on other apps like EveryDollar and YNAB but explain why Rocket Money is our go-to for its user-friendly interface and precise transaction tracking. 

We talk about an app that makes sure you're getting the full value out of all of your monthly/yearly credit card benefits/credits/perks, and another that advises you on which credit card to use to get the most points for your purchases. 

We also dive into the Travel Freely app, a comprehensive tool that keeps track of your credit card details, sign-up bonuses, and annual fees, making sure you never miss an opportunity to maximize your benefits.

We also shed light on some of our favorite travel planning resources, and some of the best points tracker websites like Max My Point, Point.me, and PointsYeah, which help you monitor point availability for hotels and flights. 

Tune in and transform how you manage your credit card rewards and travel points, making every trip a rewarding experience!

All of our favorite cards and links are here: https://beacons.ai/travelpartyof5

We think road trips are the EASIEST way to get started using points and miles!!! It's so low risk and can have big rewards. 

If you've ever wondered how to make family road trips less stressful and more fun, this is for you. We're giving you all of our best tips for road trips with kids. We even reveal what it was like to take our son on his first road trip to Las Vegas at just six weeks old, offering insights that both seasoned road trippers and newcomers will find invaluable.

From managing food and entertainment expenses to ensuring a smooth ride, we cover all the essentials for a successful family road trip. Learn how substantial breakfasts and portable snacks can keep both your budget and your kids happy, and discover the magic of iPads with pre-downloaded shows for keeping little ones entertained. We also share tech must-haves like Bluetooth headphones and portable chargers, and recommend carrying a twin air mattress for that pesky extra kid (ha). 

Join us for a road trip down memory lane and take away practical advice to make your next family adventure the best one yet.

Click here to apply for the Chase Sapphire Cards we refer to in this episode - we used these points to book all our Hyatt hotels.

And if you've already got one of the Chase Sapphire cards, you'll want to apply for these business cards, linked here. 

All other best cards (including the Capital One Venture and Venture X cards which you can use to erase travel expenses) are linked here!

In this episode - Not all trips go as planned. In fact, some of them never even make it off the drawing room floor (so to speak).

In this episode we're sharing our thought process as we attempted to plan a family trip to Yellowstone, but (spoiler alert) realized halfway through we had to pivot and save Yellowstone for another time. 

We get a lot of questions about how we plan our trips, and today, we're sharing our planning process for our upcoming family trip to Yellowstone. 

First, we discuss the decision between driving and flying to Yellowstone. From Phoenix, driving takes about 15 hours, which can be broken up with an overnight stay in Zion National Park. Flying, on the other hand, offers the convenience of using points, but with no direct flights from Phoenix to Bozeman or Jackson, connections are necessary. We explore options like Southwest, United, and Delta, and share our experience applying for a United business card to cover the flight costs.

Next, we dive into lodging options within Yellowstone. Staying inside the park can save you the hassle of daily long drives, but accommodations like Mammoth Springs and the Old Faithful Inn fill up fast. We explain how to secure your reservations, including booking a year in advance and monitoring for cancellations.

Our Yellowstone travel itinerary also covers the challenges of using points for accommodations. We talk about balancing the use of points and cash, considering properties in West Yellowstone and Jackson. While finding points-eligible hotels like the Holiday Inn in West Yellowstone and various Hilton and Marriott options in Jackson, we also emphasize the importance of having the right credit cards to earn those valuable points.

As we finalize our plans, we realize the need for flexibility. With two major international trips already planned for next year, we decide to shift our Yellowstone trip to 2026. This allows us ample time to open new credit cards, meet minimum spends, and earn the points needed for a more cost-effective vacation. Plus, we'll have the Southwest Companion Pass again by then, making flights even more affordable.

In the meantime, we pivot to an alternative plan: a road trip to Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe. This trip provides a mix of stunning natural beauty and relaxation by the lake, breaking up the summer heat with a memorable adventure.

Throughout this episode, we highlight the importance of early planning, being flexible with travel dates, and using points strategically. Whether you're looking to escape to Yellowstone or considering other family-friendly destinations, our insights and detailed Yellowstone travel itinerary will help you plan a trip that's both fun and budget-friendly.

Tune in to learn how to navigate the challenges of planning a family trip to Yellowstone, from securing flights and accommodations to maximizing your points and miles. Don't miss our insider tips on making the most of your travel rewards and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey for your family.

**Some experience links may be affiliate links which means we make a small commission if you choose to book through those links. Thank you for supporting our free content by using these links <3**

Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using points and miles (often called travel hacking) and we share how we leverage credit card offers to earn a ton of points/miles so we can afford to travel more with all five of us.

Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5

Click here to apply for the Chase Sapphire Cards we refer to in this episode - we used these points to book all our Hyatt hotels. And if you've already got one of the Chase Sapphire cards, you'll want to apply for these business cards, linked here. 

(Yes, you probably can apply for business cards!)

In this episode, we're sharing all the behind the scenes from our family road trip from Phoenix to San Diego. If you're planning a family road trip to San Diego, join us as we share our experiences, tips, and must-visit spots for your drive from Phoenix to San Diego.

After a quick stop in Yuma on the way for lunch (In 'N Out is where we stop every time), we made our way to Carlsbad, staying at the luxurious Park Hyatt Aviara. It was our first time at a Park Hyatt, and the experience was nothing short of amazing. The hotel’s family-friendly atmosphere, stunning pool, and proximity to Legoland made it a perfect stop for our kids. AND we booked this luxury hotel using points, making our stay even more rewarding.

Next, our family road trip took us to Oceanside, where we stayed at the charming Seabird Resort. With its Cape Cod vibes and prime location right across from the beach, it has quickly became a family favorite. We’ll tell you about the amenities that made our stay special, from free beach gear to a fantastic game room for the kids. Plus, discover some of the best local eateries that made our visit even more memorable.

Our final destination on this family road trip was downtown San Diego, where we stayed at the Manchester Grand Hyatt. Despite some hiccups, we found plenty to  enjoy at this location. From its rooftop theater and pickleball courts to its proximity to Seaport Village, there was no shortage of activities for our family.

Tune in to hear all about our adventures, including our day at the San Diego County Fair and a special dinner at Wolf in the Woods, where we almost ordered the entire menu thanks to a close friend who is the head chef. We’ll also share our honest opinions about each hotel, the pros and cons, and tips for making the most out of your drive from Phoenix to San Diego.

Whether you're planning your own family road trip or just love hearing about travel adventures, this episode is packed with valuable insights and entertaining stories. So buckle up and get ready to join us on our drive from Phoenix to San Diego, and discover why this route is perfect for a memorable family road trip.

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram @travelpartyof5 for behind-the-scenes videos, hotel tours, and more family travel tips. Thanks for tuning in, and we hope our journey inspires your next family adventure!

 Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5

Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using points and miles and we share how we leverage credit card offers to earn a ton of points/miles so we can afford travel as a larger family.

Click here to apply for the Chase Sapphire Cards we refer to in this episode - we used these points to book our hotel on this staycation as well as some flights. And if you've already got one of the Chase Sapphire cards, you'll want to apply for these business cards, linked here. 

In today's episode, we're sharing all the details about our recent Scottsdale Staycation. Plus, we’ll dive into how to use credit card points and miles to make the most of your trips.

First, let’s talk about what we did during our Scottsdale Staycation. Every year we book a staycation at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale at Gainey Ranch. This year, we spent two nights in a spacious room with two queen beds and a sofa bed, which was perfect for our family of 5. The highlight of our stay was, of course, the pool. The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale has a fantastic pool area, complete with a sand beach, a waterslide, and even an adult-only pool for some quiet time.

Our plans on this staycation is always just relaxing by the pool, ordering food and drinks, and letting the kids enjoy the water and other activities. It’s always a hit with the whole family!

Now, let's talk about the power of credit card points and miles. We booked our Scottsdale Staycation using Hyatt points, which we earned from our World of Hyatt business card and various Chase cards, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Chase Ink Business cards. Using points and miles can save you a lot of money, allowing you to enjoy amazing experiences without breaking the bank.

For those interested in planning a similar staycation, the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale is a Category 6 hotel, bookable for between 21,000 and 29,000 points per night. Since summer in Arizona is off-peak, we were able to book our stay for just 21,000 points a night. It’s a great value, especially when using credit card points and miles.

During our stay, we noticed the hotel is undergoing significant renovations. The lobby and several floors are under construction, which does affect the overall ambiance. While this didn't impact our pool time, it might be something to consider if you're planning a longer stay or coming from out of town.

The food options at the hotel are currently limited due to the renovations. There is one restaurant open for breakfast, and the pool bar serves as the main dining option for other meals. We enjoyed some delicious food, like a short rib grilled cheese sandwich, but the menu is definitely more limited than usual. On a brighter note, renowned chef Richard Blais is revamping the hotel's food and beverage offerings, which we’re excited to try once the renovations are complete.

Using credit card points and miles not only covered our stay but also made it possible to enjoy this yearly tradition without worrying about the cost. We highly recommend using points and miles to book your Scottsdale Staycation or any other travel adventures. Chase points are particularly useful as they transfer to Hyatt, making it easy to book stays at Hyatt properties around the world.

Thank you to everyone who listens and supports our podcast. If you enjoy our episodes, please leave a review! It helps others find us and we truly appreciate it.

**Some links may be affiliate links which means we make a small commission if you choose to book through those links. Thank you for supporting our free content by using these links <3**

Credit Cards we recommend
Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5

Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using points and miles and we share how we leverage credit card offers to earn a ton of points/miles so we can afford travel as a larger family.

Want to use credit card points and miles to visit Paris?!?! In this episode, join us as we recount our recent 2-day adventure in the City of Lights! Despite the rain, we embraced the charm and beauty of this iconic city, trying to make the best of it despite the clouds. 

 Our journey began with a delightful dinner at Girafe,  but sadly it was raining so our Eiffel Tower views were scarce indoors. 

Day 2 began with a walking food tour, where we indulged in delectable French cuisine and discovered hidden culinary gems. This food tour (linked below) truly felt like we were visiting a Parisian market with a french friend. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

Of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower, where we braved the weather to experience the breathtaking views. Even in the rain, she is beautiful. Then we grabbed crepes and coffee near Notre Dame. 

On our third day we ventured out of the city for an exhilarating bike tour of Versailles, pedaling through the grandeur of the palace grounds and soaking in the rich history. 

The standout for dinner was Le Relais de L'Entrecote for their infamous steak frites. 

For a hotel, we stayed at the Hyatt Regency Etoile for zero dollars, all thanks to our use of points and miles. Tune in to hear our tips on how to make the most of your points for a memorable stay in Paris, rain or shine.

Foodie Morning Walk at the Aligre Market (not an affiliate link and not sponsored, we paid full price!)

**Some links shared above may be affiliate links which means we make a small commission if you choose to book through those links. Thank you for supporting our free content by using these links <3**

Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using points and miles (often called travel hacking) and we share how we leverage new credit card offers to earn a lot of points and miles so we can afford travel as a larger family.

Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5

Click here to apply for the Chase Sapphire Cards we refer to in this episode - we used these points to book all of our flights on this trip. And if you've already got one of the Chase Sapphire cards, you'll want to apply for these business cards, linked here. 

Links to all the experiences we mentioned:

Pompeii Small Group Tour with an Archaeologist

Enjoy the Little Things Bistro - best restaurant in Sorrento

Amalfi Coast Boat Tour

Where to stay in Sorrento? This is the AirBnB we stayed at!

Today we're diving into part 2 of our Italian adventure, focusing on our stay in Sorrento. Join us as we uncover how to maximize your travel experiences using credit card points and miles, while exploring beautiful cafes in Sorrento and enjoying a day at a stunning beach club.

Our journey starts in Florence, where we hop on a high-speed train to Naples, then switch to the Circumvesuviana, ending in Sorrento. This charming town, near the Amalfi Coast, is perfect for exploring Naples, Pompeii, Amalfi, Ravello, and Positano. Sorrento offers a relaxed atmosphere compared to bustling Amalfi and is more affordable.

We stayed in a cozy Airbnb that was ideal for our party of three. While we usually prefer hotels for their amenities, there aren’t many on points in this area. Plus, our host provided a detailed map of the best cafes in Sorrento, scenic spots, and must-visit locations, ensuring we made the most of our stay.

A highlight was the boat tour to Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi, organized by our Airbnb host. We enjoyed breakfast at a charming cafe in Positano, then headed to Amalfi. From there, we took a bus up to Ravello, escaping the crowded streets of Amalfi for the serene beauty of this hilltop town. The small group size made it even more enjoyable.

Our day at the Marameo Beach Club in Sorrento was unforgettable. This adults-only beach club offers towel service, food, drinks, and comfortable lounge chairs. We relaxed by the crystal-clear waters, read our books, drank crisp local white wine, and soaked in stunning cliff views. It was the perfect way to unwind after days of exploring.

Pompeii was a must-see, and we opted for a guided tour to get the most out of it. The history and preserved ruins were fascinating, and we learned so much from our guide.

When it comes to dining, Sorrento did not disappoint. We had delicious meals, but Enjoy the Little Things Bistro stood out. Recommended by a colleague, this gem in the center of Sorrento offered some of the best food we had on our trip. We loved it so much we ate there twice! The friendly staff, delicious dishes, and cozy atmosphere made it a highlight.

We made extensive use of credit card points and miles to cover travel expenses, allowing us to indulge in these amazing experiences without breaking the bank. From booking flights to securing accommodations, leveraging points and miles made our Italian adventure even more rewarding.

Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using points and miles (often called travel hacking) and we share how we leverage credit card offers to earn a ton of points/miles so we can afford travel as a larger family.

Vespa Tour we did (or tried to do?)
Tuscany Chianti Wine Tour - the incredible wine tour we talked about

Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5

Click here to apply for the Chase Sapphire Cards we refer to in this episode - we used these points to book our Hyatt in Florence as well as some flights. And if you've already got one of the Chase Sapphire cards, you'll want to apply for these business cards, linked here. 

If you think you're not eligible for a business credit card, you probably are - listen to our episode titled "Who Can Apply for Business Credit Cards?"

**Some experience links may be affiliate links which means we make a small commission if you choose to book through those links. Thank you for supporting our free content by using these links <3**

In this episode, we dive into an exciting adventure in Florence, Italy! Join me and my sister Alaina as we recount our amazing experiences during our 3 days in Florence, Italy. This trip was extra special as it was a girls' trip with our mom, leaving the kids and my husband Duane back home. Get ready to explore the beauty, history, and fun of Florence with us!

We kick things off by talking about our flights. My mom and I flew from Phoenix to Florence. Alaina flew from Washington Dulles and met us in London before we all headed to Florence together. Our flights were  all booked on points, they were smooth, and even though we had a few hiccups with luggage, it all worked out in the end.

Our home base in Florence was the luxurious Il Tornabuoni, part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection. This historic hotel, which we booked with points, was the perfect place to stay. It was centrally located, beautifully decorated in Renaissance style, and offered top-notch service. From the terrace with stunning city views to the personalized touches for Elena's birthday, the hotel was a highlight of our trip.

One of the most memorable parts of our adventure was the Vespa tours in Florence, Italy. We were excited to explore the Tuscan countryside on Vespas, but things didn't go as planned - but you'll have to listen to hear what happend. Despite the bumps, the Vespa tour was a unique and fun experience that we won't forget.

During our 3 days in Florence, Italy, we also indulged in a fantastic wine tour. This all-day tour took us to beautiful vineyards and a medieval town. We learned about wine-making, tasted delicious wines, and enjoyed an incredible farm-to-table lunch. The scenery was breathtaking, making it one of our favorite days in Florence.

Throughout our 3 days in Florence, Italy, we made unforgettable memories. Using points and miles to cover our flights and hotel allowed us to splurge on fun experiences like the wine and vespa tours, along with all the gelato and incredible food we could eat. 

In this episode of Travel Party of 5, we dive into the vibrant and diverse food scene of Portland, Oregon. Join us as we explore one of the coolest hotels in Portland, Oregon, starting with the stylish Hyatt Centric. This hotel offered a fantastic experience, even allowing me to check off another brand from my Hyatt bingo card. Situated in the heart of downtown, the Hyatt Centric is not only a convenient stay but also one of the coolest hotels in Portland, Oregon.

While in Portland, I had the chance to sample some of the best Vietnamese food Portland has to offer. I had a standout visit to Cuon, a small, unassuming spot that served the most delicious banh mi sandwich I’ve ever had. This little gem truly showcases the best Vietnamese food Portland boasts, with its perfect blend of flavors and fresh ingredients.

Portland is known for its fun and eclectic dining scene, and I got to experience some fun Portland restaurants firsthand. Cartopia was a fantastic food stall area with a variety of choices, from Egyptian/Mediterranean to Pizza to Pad Thai, making it an ideal spot for a group dinner. Another highlight was Lil' Shalom, where I enjoyed delicious Mediterranean dishes like burnt beef ends with hummus and pita.

Of course, no food tour of Portland would be complete without a nod to the iconic Anthony Bourdain. I had the pleasure of dining at Apizza Scholls, a spot Bourdain visited during his time in Portland. The pizza here lived up to its reputation, making it one of the must-visit fun Portland restaurants.

Back at the Hyatt Centric, I enjoyed the hotel's amenities, including a convenient restaurant in the lobby serving breakfast, coffee, and evening meals. This made it easy to grab a bite without venturing far, though Portland’s bustling food scene always tempted me to explore more.

Throughout the episode, I share more about my stay at the Hyatt Centric, detailing why it’s one of the coolest hotels in Portland, Oregon. Its central location made it easy to explore the city, and its industrial-chic vibe added to the overall experience. However, for families planning a trip, I offer tips on choosing the right accommodation to suit everyone’s needs.

Join us as we uncover some fun Portland restaurants and the best Vietnamese food Portland has to offer. Whether you're planning a trip to the city or just a foodie at heart, this episode is packed with insights and recommendations to make your Portland adventure unforgettable. Don’t miss out on hearing about the coolest hotels in Portland, Oregon, and the delectable delights that await you in this fantastic city.

Kimiko's instagram account (she won the Brand Connector award I mentioned and is the one who told me about the banh mi sandwich!)
Whitney's instagram account - super Portland foodie and workout queen!
Valerie at Eat Like Bourdain's instagram

Restaurants:
Cuon (Banh Mi and more)
Apizza Scholls
Cartopia
Lil' Shalom