Smart Travel: Upgrade Your Getaways

58 minutes 7 seconds

The Hidden Costs of "Cheap" Countries: What $300 a Day in Madagascar Really Buys You

Learn what it really costs to honeymoon in one of the world's least-visited countries and how to get there on points.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French share what it actually costs to honeymoon in one of the world's least-visited countries. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the new Chase Sapphire Preferred benefits that went live June 15th, a full Wyndham Rewards card family refresh that added a brand-new premium card, why airfares are up more than 26% year-over-year amid broader travel price increases, and highlights from AAA's new Five Diamond Hotels list.

Then, they discuss Sally's Madagascar honeymoon from every angle, with tips on whether a group tour could be the right call for destinations with little tourist infrastructure, why countries with the lowest cost of living can be among the most expensive places to visit, and how to score business class seats on Ethiopian Airlines for 80,000 United miles to one of the farthest destinations from San Francisco on earth. They also feature an interview with Madagascar guide Zu Rakuthu Nirina and answer a listener’s question about using 176,000 United miles for flights from SFO to Singapore.

Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6

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:

PointsYeah Award Search Review: A Great Tool for Points Collectors

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

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17 June 2026, 12:01 pm

40 minutes 46 seconds

Unpacking the Chase Sapphire Preferred’s Biggest Update in Five Years: What You Need to Know

Learn how the Chase Sapphire Preferred's biggest refresh in years could change how you earn and redeem travel points.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French break down the latest travel headlines, including Delta's expanded free checked bag perk, a new ride-hailing credit on select Delta cards, a second Delta One Lounge coming to LAX, World of Hyatt's new 12-month advance booking window for cardholders and elite members, and two changes hitting Atmos Rewards members.

Then, they dig into the Chase Sapphire Preferred's first major overhaul in five years. The annual fee is staying at $95 but the card is getting new benefits, updated earning categories, and some trade-offs worth knowing about. Meghan and Sally walk through every change, weigh the pros and cons, and compare the Preferred to other travel cards to help you figure out whether it still deserves a spot in your wallet.

*In this episode, we misstated how the new $100 annual Chase Travel hotel credit applies to existing cardholders. Existing cardholders received an additional $50 credit on June 15, 2026 for their anniversary year.

Help us plan our next live event! Take our quick survey to let us know where you would be most excited to meet our hosts and fellow listeners: https://forms.gle/BqQz7JR6ThxdgSEY6

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:

Citi ThankYou Transfer Partners: A Complete Guide

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10 June 2026, 12:01 pm

52 minutes 10 seconds

Earn More Points on Purchases You Already Make: Online Shopping, Dining, Rideshares and More

Learn how to earn more points and miles on everyday shopping using portals, dining programs, and partner apps.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss the sometimes-overlooked ways you could earn bonus points and miles on purchases you're already making. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including new summer airfare price drop data from Kayak's updated trends dashboard, T-Mobile Tuesday deals with travel perks for June, Hilton's new college-themed hotel brand called Undergraduate, and the opening of Alaska Airlines' renovated lounge at Portland International Airport.

Then, Meghan and Sally dig into online shopping portals, explaining how tools like Rakuten, airline-specific portals (including American's AAdvantage eShopping, which earns loyalty points toward elite status), hotel booking platforms like Gondola, and the up-and-coming Rove Miles program could help you stack rewards on top of your credit card earnings. They also cover airline dining programs, brand partnerships with Uber, Lyft, and Starbucks, and the aggregator Cashback Monitor so you can see at a glance which portal offers the best rate for any retailer.

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:

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

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3 June 2026, 7:10 am

38 minutes 35 seconds

Summer Travel 2026: How to Time Your Trip, Pick Your Destination, and Actually Save Money

Learn how summer 2026 travel costs are rising and which booking strategies could help you save money this season.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss what's driving up summer travel costs in 2026 and how to plan smarter despite them. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including what American Express's new partnership with Fanatics could mean for sports fans and points collectors, a new Bilt deal allowing certain cardholders to earn miles on rent payments with Air France/KLM and Alaska Atmos, major updates at Disney World and Disneyland, and findings from Expedia's summer travel report on the return of last-minute booking.

Then, Meghan and Sally dig into the full picture of summer travel in 2026, with tips and tricks on when airfares and hotel prices hit their seasonal floor, which domestic and international destinations are trending this summer, and how to decide whether spending points or paying cash makes more sense when prices are climbing fast.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

Atmos Rewards Ascent Review: Well Worth $95 a Year https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/alaska-airlines-credit-card
5 Things to Know About the Air France-KLM Credit Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/learn/air-france-klm-credit-card
Fanatics Rewards Card from American Express https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/news/amex-fanatics-to-partner-on-credit-card

Resources discussed in this episode:

How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2026? https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/airline-miles-and-hotel-points-valuations
2026 Summer Travel Report: 42% Would Rather Stay Home Than Book Budget Travel https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/studies/summer-travel-report
The Best Days to Book a Flight and When to Fly https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/best-days-book-flight-fly

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

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27 May 2026, 7:10 am

2 minutes 33 seconds

Introducing Your Next Dollar: Money Management for High Earners

Meet Your Next Dollar, a new podcast from NerdWallet Wealth Partners. This is the podcast for you if you are a high earner learning how to build wealth, navigate money trade-offs, and spend on what you actually value.

Follow Your Next Dollar on your favorite podcast app: ⁠https://play.megaphone.fm/a4ijxxsst1inho456fxbha⁠

Interested in working with a financial advisor? Visit ⁠⁠nerdwalletwealthpartners.com⁠⁠

NerdWallet Wealth Partners LLC (NWWP) is a SEC registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training, nor does it constitute an endorsement by any securities regulator. The content presented by NWWP on its Your Next Dollar podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as personalized investment, tax, or legal advice to any person. The views, strategies, examples, and figures discussed are intended to be general in nature, subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and may not be suitable for every individual. Any hypothetical illustrations used are for educational purposes only and do not represent a guarantee or prediction of future results. All investments carry risk, including the potential loss of principal, and past performance is not a guarantee of future results. NWWP's investment advisory services are only offered where NWWP and its representatives are registered. Before making any financial decision, seek advice from a qualified investment, tax, or legal professional.

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26 May 2026, 6:30 pm

53 minutes 24 seconds

World of Hyatt Award Chart Changes 2026: What's New and Where to Get the Most Value

Learn how the new World of Hyatt award chart changes your points value and which hotels are still worth booking.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle dig into the sweeping changes to the World of Hyatt award chart to help you decide whether Hyatt points are still worth earning and how to use them wisely. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including a surge in airfares driven by rising oil costs and the Spirit Airlines shutdown, the new JetBlue and United reciprocal loyalty program benefits, record Memorial Day travel projections, a new Marriott Bonvoy and Outside Magazine partnership, and a roundup of deals and new attractions at Disneyland and Disney World this summer.

Then, Sally and Meghan go deep on the new World of Hyatt award chart that rolled out on May 20th, covering what changed with the new five-tier pricing structure, which hotel categories are seeing the biggest cost jumps, and why Hyatt points could still hold strong value compared to competing programs. They share their favorite Hyatt properties around the globe, and discuss strategies for earning points through hotel stays, the World of Hyatt credit cards, and transfer partners including Chase Ultimate Rewards and Bilt. Plus: Sally and Meghan answer a listener’s question about which card to consider for a large Marriott family stay over Thanksgiving.

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:

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

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20 May 2026, 7:10 am

1 hour 9 minutes

How to Travel Without Paying for a Hotel: Inside Home Swapping and Pet Sitting Apps

Learn how to travel for less by swapping homes or pet sitting with strangers around the world.

Hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how house swapping and house sitting can cut your lodging costs to help you stretch your travel dollars further. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Rove's new Aeroplan transfer partnership, fresh perks rolling out on the JetBlue Premier Card, surprising findings from the 2026 J.D. Power North American Airline Satisfaction Study, IHG's new summer points promotion, and what slow bookings ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup could mean for travelers.

Then, joined by longtime Kindred host Bob Krinsky and Asheville-based Trusted Housesitters host Robert Barclay, they discuss what it's actually like to swap homes or invite a stranger to pet sit, with tips and tricks on choosing a platform that vets its members, building trust with potential sitters or swappers, and saving on the extras like pet care and rides to the airport.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

JetBlue Premier Review: $300 Credit, Lounge Access and More https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/jetblue-premier
JetBlue Plus Review: Bundle of Benefits, Reasonable Annual Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/jetblue-plus
Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/chase-sapphire-reserve
American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/american-express-platinum

Resources discussed in this episode:

The Guide to Rove Miles https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/guide-to-rove-miles
The Guide to Air Canada Aeroplan https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/air-canada
Current Credit Card Transfer Bonuses: May 2026 https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/credit-card-transfer-bonuses
JetBlue Premier Adding Companion Pass, Enhancing Travel Credit https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/news/jetblue-premier-new-perks
The Guide to IHG One Rewards https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/ihg-rewards-more-value-for-the-frugal-traveler
Book These Hyatt Properties Now Before Award Costs Go Up on May 20 https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/news/book-these-hyatt-properties-before-may-2026-devaluation
Best Hotel Credit Cards for Free Nights https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/best-hotel-credit-cards-for-free-nights

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

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13 May 2026, 7:10 am

44 minutes

Family Travel on Points, Solo Trip Ideas, and Booking Tools Compared: Your Travel Questions Answered

Learn how to maximize Chase points for family Hawaii trips, travel with infants, and pick the right rewards card.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French dig into a mailbag of listener questions covering points strategy, family travel, and the trade-offs of different hotel booking platforms. But first, Meghan is joined by Smart Money host Elizabeth Ayoola, filling in for Sally, to break down the latest travel headlines, including the Spirit Airlines shutdown, a new Wells Fargo transfer partner, a big new sign-up bonus for the Chase Sapphire Reserve, anniversary updates to the Amex Gold Card, and two new direct routes from the U.S. to Rome.

Then, Meghan and Sally answer listener questions, with tips and tricks on saving Chase points for future family travel, navigating travel insurance claims on award flights, using points and price trackers to score a family Hawaii trip, picking the right next credit card when you live outside a big city, choosing your next solo female travel destination, and comparing Gondola and Roame for hotel bookings.

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:

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

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6 May 2026, 7:10 am

57 minutes 44 seconds

The Best Travel Credit Cards With Annual Fees Under $100

Learn how travel credit cards with annual fees under $100 can earn you free flights, hotel nights, and perks.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss travel credit cards with annual fees under $100 to help you earn meaningful rewards without splurging on a premium card. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Hyatt's award chart changes taking effect May 20, Disney's 2026 Halloween event dates, expiring welcome offers on the Disney Inspire and Chase Freedom Unlimited cards, new Chase Sapphire Reserve perks at The Edit collection hotels, and the Trump administration's potential bailout of Spirit Airlines.

Then, they discuss why a sub-$100 annual fee card can punch well above its weight for the right traveler. They break down their picks across four categories: cards for travel spending, everyday spending, hotel co-brands, and airline co-brands. You'll get tips on free night certificates, statement credits, and transfer partners, plus when these cards genuinely compete with premium options.

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:

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

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29 April 2026, 7:10 am

45 minutes 31 seconds

How Airline Alliance Status Gets You Into the World's Best Airport Lounges for Free

Learn how earning status with one airline can unlock lounges and elite perks on more than a dozen other airlines worldwide.

First, host Meghan Coyle breaks down the week’s top travel headlines with producer Tess Vigeland (filling in for Sally French), including a new Google Hotels feature that lets you track prices on a specific hotel (not just a city), Wells Fargo adding Wyndham Rewards as a transfer partner, Air New Zealand’s controversial new Skynest bunk bed cabin, Chase expanding its Plum Guide vacation rental program to Sapphire cardholders, Hilton’s new apartment-style properties, and Norse Atlantic canceling Los Angeles flights amid rising fuel costs.

Then, Sally joins Meghan for a conversation with Gilbert Ott, Director of Loyalty at the OneWorld Airline Alliance. They explore how airline alliance membership can elevate every trip you take, with tips and insights on how OneWorld’s Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald elite status tiers work across all 15 member airlines, which world-class airport lounges you can access as a OneWorld elite member, and what Hawaiian Airlines’ new membership in the Alliance means for your miles and travel experience.

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: Strong Option for Travel Rewards https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/chase-sapphire-preferred
Chase Sapphire Reserve® Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/chase-sapphire-reserve
Wells Fargo Autograph® Card Review: Big Rewards, No Annual Fee https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/wells-fargo-autograph
Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Review: Highly Rewarding for Travelers https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards/reviews/wells-fargo-autograph-journey

Resources discussed in this episode:

Wells Fargo Transfer Partners: What to Know https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/wells-fargo-transfer-partners
Air New Zealand's Skynest Bunk Beds Are Coming This Fall https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/news/air-new-zealand-skynest-launch

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

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23 April 2026, 4:02 pm

46 minutes 12 seconds

Family Travel on Points and Miles: Free Checked Bags, Companion Passes, and Miles Pooling

Learn how families can use points and miles to fly, earn companion passes, and book hotels without paying full price.

Before delving into the ins and outs of family travel, hosts Meghan Coyle and Tess Vigeland (filling in for Sally French) break down the latest travel headlines, including an increase in checked bag fees across all four major U.S. airlines, American Airlines stripping elite status perks from basic economy bookings, Rove Miles adding new transfer partners, Virgin Voyages' Brilliant Lady arriving in Los Angeles for West Coast sailings, and Tess's long-awaited — and ultimately successful — effort to get a refund from Iberia Airlines after a delayed flight in Spain.

Then, Sally joins Meghan for a discussion with Erin Hurd, points expert and NerdWallet's director of travel, about how families can travel on points without losing their minds. Erin shares tips and tricks on flying babies and toddlers affordably, using family miles pooling programs to combine points across household members, earning companion passes to stretch your travel budget further, and booking hotels strategically when you need connecting rooms or extra space.

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:

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.

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15 April 2026, 7:10 am