In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips Podcast, Genni Franklin sits down with Michelle Johnson—an everyday traveler who has built a powerful, flexible points strategy that allows her family to travel internationally without overspending.
Michelle shares how she went from barely affording one family vacation every few years to taking multiple international trips using credit card points. Together, Genni and Michelle break down why relying on just one airline or hotel program can actually limit your travel, and how diversifying across banks gives you more options, better deals, and less frustration when booking.
If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re opening too many cards, not enough cards, or if flexible points really matter—this episode will help you think differently about your strategy.
In This Episode, We Cover:
- How Michelle got started with points and miles as a family of four
- Why going “all in” on one bank or program can backfire
- What credit card velocity is, and how often Michelle applies for cards
- Why getting denied for a card isn’t the end of the world
- How to decide which card to open next
- Why flexible points are more powerful than airline-specific miles
- How families can use points to travel to Europe for $2,000–$4,000 total
- Best transfer partners for family travel (Hyatt, Flying Blue, Choice)
- When it makes sense to use Hyatt Place, Choice Hotels, or luxury stays
- Why waiting for elevated offers usually isn’t the best strategy
Trips & Redemptions Mentioned:
- Europe using Flying Blue (with kid discounts)
- Norway with premium economy flights and Choice Hotels
- Amsterdam and the Netherlands (Hyatt Regency vs Hyatt Place)
- Copenhagen using Hyatt points at a Mr & Mrs Smith property
- Park Hyatt New York City for a family of four
Episode Timestamps
- 0:00 – Intro & why choosing the right card matters
- 3:00 – Michelle’s background & how she got into points and miles
- 6:00 – Biggest mistakes people make when picking a card
- 10:00 – How to match a card to your spending habits
- 15:00 – Welcome bonuses: what to look for (and what to ignore)
- 20:00 – Annual fees: when they’re worth it (and when they’re not)
- 25:00 – Redemption flexibility vs. airline/hotel loyalty
- 30:00 – Long-term strategy vs. chasing shiny offers
- 35:00 – Final tips for beginners
- 38:00 – Where to start if you’re overwhelmed
Where to Find Michelle
- Instagram: @jetsetwithjohnsons
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