Financial Feminist – 96. How to Use Your Credit Cards to Travel for Free

Intro

In this episode of the Financial Feminist podcast, the speaker shares valuable insights on how to use credit cards to travel for free. They also provide tips on choosing the right credit card for your needs and maximizing the benefits of travel rewards programs. The speaker also discusses their personal experiences with travel hacking and the importance of responsible credit card usage.

Main Takeaways

Maximizing Credit Card Rewards

• You can use credit card points to fly business class for just the taxes and fees.
• You don’t have to be a big traveler to take advantage of points.
• You don’t need a fancy travel rewards credit card to get free travel.
• You can redeem points for travel through a general credit card that gives you points.
• A huge annual fee for a travel rewards card can be worth it if you use the benefits.
• Benefits of a travel rewards card can include TSA precheck, travel credits, lounge access, and more.

Choosing the Right Credit Card

• It’s important to choose a credit card that makes sense for your spending habits and travel needs.
• Credit card travel rewards programs can range from airline-specific cards to general redeemable points for travel or cashback.
• Signing up for credit cards with introductory offers can be strategic for big purchases.
• Finding a credit card that reflects what you’re trying to do with it is important.
• Open cards with the same bank or carrier to pool your points.
• If legally partnered, open separate credit cards to get the benefits times two.

Travel Hacking and Personal Finance

• Transferring points to airlines or hotels makes more sense for flights and hotels.
• Travel hacking can be as casual or as serious as you want it to be.
• Using points to book flights and hotels can save a lot of money.
• Turning left on a plane and flying business class for just taxes and fees is a powerful feeling.
• Using points for flights frees up money to spend on other aspects of a trip.
• The Financial Feminist Podcast offers resources for those interested in travel hacking and personal finance.

Summary

Maximizing Credit Card Rewards

One of the key takeaways from this episode is the ability to use credit card points to fly business class for just the taxes and fees. This opens up opportunities for luxury travel experiences without breaking the bank. The speaker emphasizes that you don’t have to be a frequent traveler to take advantage of these points and that even a general credit card with points can be used to redeem travel. They also highlight the importance of considering the benefits offered by travel rewards cards, such as TSA precheck, travel credits, and lounge access. While some cards may come with a high annual fee, the speaker suggests that it can be worth it if you make use of the benefits.

Choosing the Right Credit Card

When it comes to choosing the right credit card, the speaker advises considering your spending habits and travel needs. Credit card travel rewards programs can vary from airline-specific cards to those offering redeemable points for travel or cashback. The speaker also recommends taking advantage of introductory offers when making significant purchases. They emphasize the importance of finding a credit card that aligns with your goals and preferences. Additionally, the speaker suggests opening cards with the same bank or carrier to pool your points and, if legally partnered, opening separate credit cards to double the benefits.

Travel Hacking and Personal Finance

The speaker shares insights into travel hacking and how it can be tailored to individual preferences. They explain that transferring points to airlines or hotels is a smart choice for maximizing the value of your rewards. Travel hacking can be approached casually or more seriously, depending on your level of interest and commitment. Using points to book flights and hotels can result in significant cost savings, allowing you to allocate your budget to other aspects of your trip. The speaker also mentions the Financial Feminist Podcast as a valuable resource for those interested in travel hacking and personal finance.

Conclusion

By leveraging credit card rewards, it is possible to travel for free or at a significantly reduced cost. The speaker emphasizes the importance of responsible credit card usage, such as paying bills on time and in full. They highlight the potential benefits beyond just points and miles that credit cards can offer. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or someone looking to make the most of everyday purchases, understanding how credit card rewards programs work can be beneficial. With the right credit card and strategic approach, you can unlock a world of travel opportunities without breaking the bank.