Shows
The Upgraded Points PodcastHow to Get VIP Hotel Perks Without Elite StatusThink hotel elite perks are only for top-tier travelers? Think again.In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie reveal insider tips on how to unlock elite hotel benefits—like room upgrades, late checkout, and free breakfast—even if you don’t have elite status. From smart booking strategies to credit cards that do the heavy lifting, they break down how you can travel like a VIP without the years of loyalty.You’ll also hear personal travel updates, underrated booking tips, and answers to listener questions in the Q&A segment.For...2025-08-1136 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastSLH vs Mr & Mrs Smith: What’s the Difference Between These Luxury Hotel Brands?Big hotel brands are getting a boutique glow-up, and now your points can unlock some seriously stylish stays. In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, we break down the key differences between Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) and Mr & Mrs Smith hotels, plus how to book them with points through Hyatt and Hilton.We also cover the latest travel news: a new promo code for Roame, fresh lounge designs that ease crowding, and a brand-new credit card worth a look. And as always, we answer your listener questions.For detailed show notes...2025-08-0429 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastBest Credit Cards With No Annual Fee (That Are Actually Worth It)Looking for credit cards that don’t charge an annual fee but do offer real value? In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down the best no-annual-fee cards for both personal and business use. They also cover the new TSA shoe removal rule, listener Q&A, and smart tips to help you choose the right $0 annual fee card for travel, rewards, or cash back.Whether you're just starting out or optimizing your setup, this one’s for you.For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:[0:00] The Upgra...2025-07-2831 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastDon’t Waste Your Points: The Biggest Mistakes Beginners Make With RedemptionsIn this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Katie and Chris uncover the most common mistakes beginners make when redeeming credit card points and miles — and how to avoid them. From picking poor-value redemptions to misunderstanding sign-up bonuses and how they impact your credit score, they explain the rookie traps that can cost you big.You’ll also learn how to calculate cents-per-point value, strategies to use your points smarter, and answers to real listener questions to help you level up your travel rewards game and get the most from every mile.For detailed show note...2025-07-2136 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastBig Amex Platinum Changes Coming in 2025? Here’s What You Need to KnowIn this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Katie and Chris are diving deep into the latest buzz in the world of travel and points—and there’s big news for American Express cardholders.Chris kicks things off with updates on his upcoming trip to Japan, sharing more details on his exciting itinerary. Meanwhile, Katie takes us back in time with stories from her stay at a historic hotel in Panama City, offering insights for travelers who love unique accommodations.They also take us behind the scenes at Copa Airlines, where Katie visited flight trai...2025-07-1424 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastIs The Chase Sapphire Reserve Card Still Worth It?Welcome to The Upgraded Points Podcast, where hosts Katie and Chris break down everything you need to know about traveling smarter, flying better, and making the most of your credit card points. From insider airline updates to the best cards for travel perks, they’ve got your journey covered, no gate changes required.In this episode, we learn about the one promo you could use to help lock in elite airline status for the next 25 years, as well as some new Delta Sky Club lounges that have recently opened. Another big topic for this podcast is wh...2025-07-0727 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastA Week in Europe Using Points and MilesIn this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris kicks things off with how he cleverly redeemed credits and points—plus, he shares a wild story about flying on a plane that looks like a turtle (yes, really!). Katie dives into her recent trip to Europe, breaking down exactly how she booked it using points and sharing savvy tips to help you save big on your own European getaway.After a quick break, Katie continues her travel recap with more helpful advice and real-world takeaways. Finally, Chris and Katie answer listener questions about maximizing points, pa...2025-06-3028 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastThe Best Credit Cards For Airport Lounge AccessIn this episode, Chris and Katie take you through their latest travel experiences and dive deep into the world of airport lounge access. Chris shares what it was like flying with Copa Airlines, while Katie talks about scoring an upgrade with American Airlines in Charlotte.They then explore which credit cards offer the best lounge access, why lounge perks matter for frequent travelers, and which cards are dropping lounge privileges. From the premium American Express Platinum to a no-annual fee card that comes with lounge access, they break down options for every type of traveler.2025-06-2332 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastBook These Business Class Flights with Points in 2025In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie share their top business class redemptions that you can actually book with points and miles in 2025, including options on American Airlines, Qatar Qsuites, ANA, Japan Airlines, Condor, and more.Whether you're planning a dream trip to Japan or want a lie-flat seat across the Atlantic, you'll hear real booking examples, points prices, and firsthand tips to help you book smarter.They also break down the CLEAR Plus price increase, how to get discounts (or even free memberships) through credit cards and airline status, and...2025-06-1618 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastBest Award Travel Search Tools for Finding Points Deals (Flights & Hotels)Looking for the best tools to search for award flights and hotels?In this episode of the Upgraded Points Podcast, we break down the top award flight search tools we personally use to book award travel with points and miles. From free options to paid platforms, we’ll show you what each one does best, plus share a discount for our favorite tool: Seats.aero.Chris and Katie also share recent travel updates, including theme park trips (Disneyland vs. Epic Universe) and a visit to Greenville, South Carolina. We wrap up with a...2025-06-0920 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastOur Favorite Credit Card Perks (That Actually Make Travel Better)Looking for a travel credit card with perks that actually deliver value? In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Katie and Chris break down their favorite credit card perks, from airport lounge access, travel insurance, to annual resort credits, and more. Whether you're a frequent flyer or planning a once-a-year getaway, these benefits can help you save money, travel more comfortably, and get more out of every trip.They also catch up on recent travels (St. Barths and New England) and answer listener questions about canceling award flights, u...2025-06-0232 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastThe Best Ways To Earn Points Without a New CardWant to earn more points and miles—without opening a new credit card? It’s possible, and even easy, if you know where to look. From online shopping portals to strategic spending, there are plenty of surprising ways to boost your rewards with everyday purchases.In this episode of the Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie share their favorite ways to earn travel rewards without adding a new card to your wallet. They also cover the launch of American Airlines' new Flagship Suites, Katie’s ongoing Delta status challenge, and answer listener questions about maximi...2025-05-2641 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastGlamping with Points: Best Hilton, Hyatt, & Marriott Stays This SummerLooking for the best travel deals this summer? In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie share how to save big on summer travel—including the best glamping destinations, smart credit card strategies, and expert tips on using points and miles more effectively.Chris kicks things off with a wild story about his family’s recent travel nightmare: three international overnight flights canceled after they arrived at the airport. Katie follows up with her review of the Deluxe Cabin at Ofland Escalante in Utah, a luxury glamping experience worth checking out.2025-05-1933 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastPlan Your Dream Disney Vacation with Expert TipsNot sure where to start when planning a Disney vacation? We have tips to help you save on hotels, food, tickets, and more. Plus, we sat down with experts at planDisney to help you plan your next trip to see Mickey Mouse. Chris and Katie also discuss customer service at Virgin Atlantic, the little-known Air Canada Rogue airline, and the massive 100,000 welcome bonus on the Chase Sapphire Preferred card. Chris tells us about his recent experience on Air Canada Rogue, and Katie had a great customer service experience with Virgin Atlantic. Next, Chris speaks t...2025-05-1225 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastFirst Look at the New Universal Epic Universe Theme Park in OrlandoShould you believe the hype behind the new Epic Universe theme park? And should you be buying points as a casual traveler? In today’s episode of the Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie discuss the new Universal Epic Universe theme park, the Universal Terra Luna and Helios Grand resorts, sign-up bonuses, and more. Plus, find out about the lesser-known Mexican city that will become a go-to travel destination in the coming years. Chris and Katie begin by discussing Katie’s trip to Mazatlan, where she stayed at Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf...2025-05-0538 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastPremium Economy: Steal or Scam?Is premium economy worth it, or is it just another way for airlines to charge you more for economy? In today’s episode of Upgraded Points, Chris and Katie discuss premium economy, the new Delta Sky Club lounge in Atlanta, and answer listener questions to help you get the most out of your points and miles. Chris and Katie begin by discussing their experiences and opinions on premium economy. Originally hesitant about premium economy, Chris and Katie say the product is popular for a reason. Next, they discuss the new Delta Sky Club in Atl...2025-04-2828 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastThe Best Puerto Vallarta Travel DealsPuerto Vallarta is an increasingly popular travel destination, with natural beauty, great food, and lots of great resorts to choose from. In this episode of Upgraded Points, Chris and Katie go through their top Puerto Vallarta hotels to stay at with points, including options for Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, and more, including options for families and adults. Chris and Katie also answer listener questions to simplify your travel card experience. Katie and Chris begin by discussing their recent travels — both used points to book impressive deals recently. Next, they discuss Katie’s stay at three Puert...2025-04-2131 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastIs Southwest Going South?How do you get free bags on Southwest now? How about Southwest alternatives? And is the Southwest Companion Pass still the best deal out there? On the this debut episode of Upgraded Points, expert travelers Katie Corrigan Seemann and Christopher Hassan answer these questions and more to help you get the most bang for your buck when you travel.Katie and Chris start by discussing their recent travels — Chris recently stayed at the best resort in Orlando for families, and Katie visited Palm Springs and La Quinta. Next, Katie and Chris discuss recent changes to...2025-04-1421 minThe Upgraded Points PodcastThe Upgraded Points Podcast TrailerWant to travel more and spend less? Every week, Upgraded Points provides expert insights, travel hacks, and the latest industry news to help you maximize your points and miles like a pro. Hosted by Chris Hassan and Katie Seemann, travel experts at Upgraded Points, this podcast breaks down the best strategies for booking luxury flights, scoring hotel upgrades, and making every trip unforgettable — all without breaking the bank.Expect insider tips, real-world trip breakdowns, and answers to your biggest travel questions. Whether you're a points and miles beginner or a seasoned expert, we’ll help you travel smar...2025-04-0701 min