In this episode, I unpack the exact mix of free night certificates, points, and card perks that helped us stretch our hotel budget farther than ever. You’ll hear the wins, the surprises, the splurges — and the one stay that just didn’t hit the mark.
In today's episode, we're chatting about
• The big-picture recap:
How we managed 60 total hotel nights this year — with 45 booked using points or free night certificates.
• Hyatt strategy deep dive:
Our five Hyatt free night certificates, how we earned them, and why the Hyatt Milestone Rewards program is one of my favorites.
• Marriott wins:
How we ended up with nine Marriott free night certificates, including multiple 50K, 35K, and 85K nights — and the strategy that lets us repeat that welcome offer cycle.
• Hilton points strategy:
Why we bought 960,000 Hilton points this year and how buying points can be a smart move with the right redemption.
• Using premium card credits strategically:
How using travel credits that come with our premium credit cards covered part of our stays at Universal, Epic Universe, and more.
• Our favorite luxury redemptions, stays that didn't work, and hidden gems
• Final reflections:
2025 felt like a “pinch me” year — and what this year taught me about smart earning, strategic booking, and maximizing every certificate.
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
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👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
