Smart Travel: Upgrade Your Getaways

• Summer Travel Deals: Where Prices Are Dropping and How to Book Luxury for Less

  Score travel deals, discover hotel savings, and learn how to maximize your budget without missing out this summer. How can you travel this summer without overspending? Where should you book to get the most value from your hotel stay? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss the state of summer travel and how shifting prices are impacting vacation budgets. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including: massive crowds already clogging airports and attractions, updates to the Chase Sapphire Reserve and new rules for holding multiple Sapphire cards, a teased refresh of the Amex Platinum, Disney’s Halloween event ticket rush, the opening of Delta’s new lounge in Seattle, and major changes to Carnival Cruise Line’s loyalty program. Then, Mary Hines Droesch, Head of Consumer and Small Business Products at Bank of America, joins Meghan and Sally to talk about real-time spending data and what it tells us about how and where Americans are vacationing this summer. They discuss how high-income travelers are approaching international travel, where cruise bookings are surging, and why road trips and destination dupes are having a moment. Then, Christie Hudson, Head of Global PR at Hotels.com, joins to talk about how to find five-star hotel stays for less, which U.S. cities have seen the steepest hotel price drops, and how loyalty perks (even from free programs) can unlock big savings on your next getaway. This show references a limited-time offer on the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card. At the time of posting, it wasn’t announced when the offer would expire.  See NerdWallet’s review of Chase Sapphire Reserve current benefits, terms and fees: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve 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  American Express Platinum Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum Capital One Venture X Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x   Resources discussed in this episode: The Best Travel Credit Card Welcome Bonus Offers Right Now https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/top-rewards-credit-card-offers  What Credit Cards Can Get Me Into the Delta Sky Club? https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/what-credit-cards-can-get-me-into-the-delta-sky-club  Best Credit Cards of July 2025: https://www.nerdwallet.com/the-best-credit-cards  Best Credit Card Bonuses for New Cardholders of July 2025: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/credit-cards/bonus-offers  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: cheap summer travel, affordable summer vacations, hotel deals 2025, best credit cards for travel, travel credit cards, Chase Sapphire Reserve bonus, travel spending trends 2025, how to find cheap hotels, best time to book hotels, destination dupes travel, cheap five-star hotels abroad, road trip vs flying, domestic vs international travel costs, cruise travel 2025, how to get free hotel perks, Hotels.com loyalty program, travel loyalty programs, cheapest cities for hotels, cheapest cities for cocktails, August travel deals, shoulder season travel tips, how to save on luxury travel, summer airfare prices, declining airfare trends, best cities for cheap hotels, travel booking strategies, where to find value hotels, national parks travel tips, Disney Halloween party tickets, Oogie Boogie Bash tips, theme park travel savings, Carnival Rewards cruise program, cruise loyalty program changes, and guest access travel lounges. Correction: A previous version of this episode misstated the ability to receive a sign-up bonus by downgrading a credit card. This has been corrected. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Big Changes to a Top Travel Card — Is It Still Worth It or Is There a Better Fit for You?

  Learn about major changes to the Chase Sapphire Reserve — and how to decide if another premium card is a better fit. Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve still worth it after its major 2025 refresh? What do travelers lose — and gain — with the new credit card benefits? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French break down this week’s sweeping changes to the Chase Sapphire Reserve and compare it with other premium travel cards to help you decide the best fit for your wallet. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the abrupt shutdown of Silver Airways, American Airlines’ new upgrade system, and the latest data on the costs of airfares, lodging, meals, and rental cars.  Then, Meghan and Sally dive deep into the Chase Sapphire Reserve overhaul. They unpack a 45% annual fee hike, new perks like hotel and dining credits, and the rollout of the new “Points Boost” redemption system. They discuss which perks actually deliver value, which benefits regional travelers might struggle to use, and how alternatives like the AmEx Platinum and Capital One Venture X compare. From lounge access to statement credits, this episode aims to help savvy travelers determine whether the Reserve still earns a spot in their wallet — or if it’s time to downgrade. 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    American Express Platinum review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/american-express-platinum   Capital One Venture X review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x   Chase Freedom Unlimited: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-freedom-unlimited  Resources discussed in this episode: Chase Sapphire Reserve Makes Big Changes: Higher Fee, New Rates, More Perks https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-reserve-overhaul-june-2025  16 Best Travel Credit Cards of June 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/credit-cards/travel  Cruises Now Searchable on Chase’s Travel Portal https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/chase-travel-cruises  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: travel credit card perks, Chase Ultimate Rewards points value, best travel credit cards 2025, credit card annual fee comparison, dynamic pricing vs award charts, American Airlines upgrade changes, Chase Points Boost explained, travel credit card lounge access, best premium travel cards, how to downgrade Chase Sapphire Reserve, The Edit by Chase Travel, statement credits travel cards, airline price trends 2025, gas prices summer 2025, hotel prices summer 2025, comparing annual fee travel cards, priority pass lounge changes, and best credit cards for luxury hotels. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  32:57
• Making Group Travel Work: Planning Trips for Different Budgets, Ages, and Interests

  How to plan a multi-generational trip without breaking the bank — or your relationships — and make it truly memorable. How do you plan a budget-friendly vacation for multiple generations of family? And how do you keep everyone — from toddlers to grandparents — happy without overspending or over-planning? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle explain how you can overcome the challenges of multi-generational travel. But first, they break down the latest travel news, including Capital One Venture X cutting free lounge access for guests, Southwest’s new international partnership with China Airlines, Starlux launching a luxe new route out of Ontario Airport, and American Airlines debuting its flagship suite on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. They also highlight where to find five-star hotel stays under $200 and share cruise recaps from Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas. Then, they dive into how to plan a multi-generational family trip that’s both affordable and fun. Sally shares how she pulled off a three-day reunion for family members from multiple states by using surveys to gather input, encouraging everyone to book their own lodging, and organizing inclusive, low-cost activities like a DIY 5K and family trivia night. She and Meghan discuss budgeting strategies, food planning, and choosing the right kind of trip — whether that’s a cruise, all-inclusive resort, or vacation home setup — to balance structure with flexibility. They wrap up by answering a listener’s question about whether it’s cheaper to book international flights while abroad or in advance from the U.S. 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 Worthy Option Among Premium Cards https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x  Resources discussed in this episode: Venture X Card to Drop Free Lounge Access for Guests, Authorized Users https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/capital-one-venture-x-lounge-access-for-authorized-users-guests  First Look: American Airlines Unveils Its Newest Flagship Business Class https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/first-look-american-airlines-unveils-its-newest-flagship-business-class  Royal Caribbean Cruises: The Ultimate Guide https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/royal-caribbean-the-complete-guide  The Guide to Chase Transfer Partners https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/chase-transfer-partners-guide  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to plan a family vacation, multi-generational travel tips, budget travel with kids and grandparents, best way to book international flights, cruise travel for families, all-inclusive resorts for large groups, cruise vs all-inclusive for families, travel with extended family, vacation home vs hotel, booking flights in Asia, Priority Pass changes, planning family reunions, using surveys for trip planning, food hall dining on vacation, family trivia night ideas, photo scavenger hunt for travel, flexible family trip itineraries, indoor skydiving on cruise ships, Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas, and booking travel with points and miles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  33:07
• Is Epic Universe the Future of Theme Parks? Here’s How to Save When You Go

  Learn what’s worth it (and what to skip) at Universal’s new theme park Epic Universe, with money-saving tips and sneak peeks of top rides. Is Epic Universe worth the higher ticket price compared to Universal’s other parks? How can you save money on theme park food, drinks, and add-ons without sacrificing fun? Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss the newest and most expensive addition to Universal Orlando—Epic Universe—and help you decide what’s worth the splurge, what’s skippable, and how to enjoy a top-tier experience without breaking your budget. But first, they break down the latest travel news, including United and JetBlue’s new BlueSky partnership, United’s downgrade of elite perks, and Southwest’s introduction of bag fees. Then, Sally recaps her experience at Epic Universe, including Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World, Isle of Berk, and a new Wizarding World of Harry Potter. She shares what to expect from the rides, dining, and vibe of each area, which locations offer the best rides and food, whether pricey extras like interactive wands and power-up bands are worth it, and smart ways to enjoy the park without overspending.  Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews. Resources discussed in this episode: Best Southwest Airlines Credit Cards of June 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/credit-cards/southwest-airlines-cards  The Best Days to Fly Around July Fourth in 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/fourth-of-july-travel  The Cheapest Ways to Visit Universal’s Epic Universe in 2025 https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/epic-universe-cheapest  Universal Epic Universe: How to Plan Your Trip To One Of Orlando’s Top Theme Parks https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/epic-universe  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: Epic Universe, Universal Orlando theme park, Universal Studios Epic Universe, how to save money at theme parks, best rides at Epic Universe, Epic Universe food prices, Universal Orlando ticket cost, Universal vs Epic Universe, Harry Potter Land Epic Universe, Ministry of Magic ride, Monsters Unchained ride, How to Train Your Dragon ride, Super Nintendo World Orlando, Epic Universe power-up bands, Universal wand prices, theme park loyalty programs, United JetBlue BlueSky, United Excursionist Perk ending, United Premier upgrade changes, Southwest Airlines bag fees, Marriott Emirates transfer, Marriott summer hotel deals, Fourth of July travel flights, Universal Studios ride tips, Epic Universe restaurants, best theme park desserts, Florida theme parks 2025, Universal Studios new park tips, Universal Orlando 2025, Epic Universe bar drinks, DK Crush Float, and theme park spending tips. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  35:53
• How to Plan an Itinerary That Saves Money, Avoids Crowds, and Unlocks Hidden Gems

  Learn how to plan travel itineraries that save you money, skip tourist traps, and make the most of your points. How can you plan a travel itinerary that saves money without missing out? What travel credit cards are worth it if you don’t want to pay an annual fee? Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle talk about how to plan a smart, budget-conscious travel itinerary without sacrificing memorable experiences. But first, Sally breaks down the latest travel news with NerdWallet’s Tess Vigeland, including rising summer flight volumes, the high cost of theme park vacations, Hyatt’s expansion into Croatia, the end of an AmEx points transfer workaround, and a devaluation of Bilt Rewards for rent payments. Then, Meghan joins Sally to discuss how to build a personalized travel itinerary that aligns with your interests, budget, and travel style. They cover how to score deals on big-ticket attractions, use combo passes wisely, find local hidden gems, and get recommendations you’ll actually enjoy. They also answer a listener’s question about whether it’s worth opening no-annual-fee travel cards just for the signup bonuses — and which ones are still worth a look if you’re not ready to splurge on a premium card. 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 Preferred® Card Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-sapphire-preferred  Chase Freedom Unlimited® Review: https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-freedom-unlimited  Chase Freedom Flex Review: Multiple Bonus Rewards Wrapped in One Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/chase-freedom-flex  Hilton AmEx Review: Solid Rewards for No Annual Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/hilton-amex-review  Resources discussed in this episode: How to Avoid Hotel Resort Fees (and Which Brands Are the Worst) https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/hotel-resort-fees  Hotel Resort Fees: Why They Exist, and How to Avoid Them For Max Savings [Video] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpB4R54lutM  The Best Travel Credit Card Welcome Bonus Offers Right Now https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/top-rewards-credit-card-offers  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to plan a travel itinerary, travel itinerary tips, avoiding tourist traps, budget travel tips, free things to do on vacation, how to find cheap museum tickets, combo passes for museums, travel planning with points, travel credit card recommendations, best travel cards for beginners, American Airlines shopping portal, how to use GetYourGuide for points, Hyatt points value, Hyatt Regency Croatia, Bilt Rewards changes, how to earn travel rewards without spending more, travel tips for Europe, Universal Epic Universe tips, walking tours in Europe, free walking tours, when to use a hotel concierge, ChatGPT for trip planning, how to avoid bad restaurants when traveling, map-based restaurant planning, hidden gems travel tips, how to travel on points, what credit cards earn bonus travel points, credit cards for booking attractions, public transportation travel savings, smart cruise shore excursions, free hotel amenities, and resort fee benefits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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