Want 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 Corrigan 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 smarter, save money, and unlock next-level adventures.
Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com
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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 Southwest’s policies, most notably ending its policy allowing travellers to check two bags for free. Learn how to navigate these changes and travel like a pro!
For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:
[0:43] Chris just got back from Orlando, where he stayed at the Conrad, which is a part of the Evermore Resort. He says the Conrad might be the best family resort in Orlando.
[2:00] The Conrad is a Hilton resort, and staying there 90,000 points each night. Chris and his wife also got $400 off through their Amex cards.
[3:19] Katie recently stayed at The Hyatt at Palm Springs, where she used free night certificates. Afterwards, Katie went to La Quinta, which is about forty minutes away. She stayed at La Quinta Resort & Club. Here's her review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/what-to-know-la-quinta-resort-club/
[7:07] Southwest is making some big changes. For one, travelers will earn less points with their paid fares.
[8:20] On May 28th, Southwest will be removing their two free checked bags. Points will begin to expire after a year, and the value of those points will fluctuate.
[11:23] There are still ways to fly with free bags on Southwest. Starting on May 20th, you can get one free checked bag if you are an A-list member or a Southwest credit card holder.
[13:58] Through June 30th, you can get an A-list status match on American Airlines for four months. On Delta, you can get a status match to gold or platinum medallion for Southwest A-list and A-list preferred members respectively. The Delta matches last until September 30th.
[16:17] As of right now, a majority of travelers will get the best possible deal from the Southwest Companion Pass, which allows you to add an additional traveler for only the cost of the additional taxes and fees. However, Katie thinks that the companion pass is likely to change.
[18:45] Moving on to audience questions, one reader asks about booking on Japan Airlines. Chris recommends using alerts to catch the best deals.
Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.
Want 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 smarter, save money, and unlock next-level adventures.
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 Atlanta. They give listeners different ways to get into a Delta Sky Club as well as alternatives to the Delta Sky Club in Atlanta. Finally, Chris and Katie answer listener questions on booking for someone else with points and the difference between flexible and fixed points.
Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com
For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:
[0:00] Introduction
[1:10] Chris recently flew from Miami to Rio on American Airlines Premium Economy. Premium economy was slightly more expensive, but was a much better product than economy.
[3:27] Katie notes that sometimes premium economy is ideal if you need to book seats for a larger number of people.
[8:01] Katie was just in Atlanta for the new Delta Sky Club opening. This is the first new Atlanta Sky Club opening in nine years, and it is the largest lounge there by volume.
[11:46] At the back of the lounge, there is a large buffet on both sides with a beautiful vine design behind it. The lounge was designed this was specifically to help with the flow of traffic.
The Best Puerto Vallarta Travel Deals
Épisode 2
lundi 21 avril 2025 • Durée 31:42
Puerto 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 Puerto Vallarta hotels, and move into a conversation on the best Puerto Vallarta hotels to book with points. Finally, Katie and Chris answer listener-submitted questions on the best card for a traveler who does is not interested in using multiple cards, and the best card without an annual fee.
For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:
[1:30] Katie just had an amazing booking — 5.99 cents per point on Hyatt Points for Hyatt Place in Pittsburgh.
[4:38] Chris was in Sao Paulo in Brazil recently at its new W. With points, Chris was able to get a $600/night room for only 38,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
[6:32] Katie went to Puerto Vallarta and stayed at three different hotels. She started at the Westin Puerto Vallarta.
[12:00] Next, Katie stayed at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta, which was bigger and livelier.
[14:20] The last stop was the W Punta de Mita, which was a quieter and more secluded resort.
First Look at the New Universal Epic Universe Theme Park in Orlando
Épisode 4
lundi 5 mai 2025 • Durée 38:47
Should 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 & Spa Resort. Next, they discuss the new Universal hotels and the new Epic Universe theme park, as well as the best places to stay in Orlando with points when visiting Universal or Disney. Finally, Chris and Katie answer your questions on sign-on bonuses and buying points.
For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:
[0:00] Introduction
[0:32] Katie recently went to Mexico again, and this time she visited Mazatlan. It is a lesser-known city that Katie believes will become a go-to destination in the coming years.
[2:40] Katie stayed at Dreams Mazatlan, which is currently a category B in the Hyatt rewards chart. For 17,000 to 23,000 points a night, every room at the all-inclusive property was oceanfront.
[10:10] Chris recently stayed at the Universal Terra Luna, which is a themed budget-friendly hotel in Orlando.
[12:02] Chris also got to tour the luxury Helios Grand hotel, which will be located inside Epic Universe. He says it will be a five-star hotel and has 360° views of the surrounding park.
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Plan Your Dream Disney Vacation with Expert Tips
Épisode 5
lundi 12 mai 2025 • Durée 25:54
Not 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 to planDisney experts about the travel planning hacks you should consider when booking your next Disney trip. Finally, Chris and Katie discuss the exciting new Chase Sapphire Preferred card welcome bonus and, as always, answer your travel questions.
For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:
[0:00] Introduction
[0:47] Chris recently flew Air Canada Rogue, which is the low-cost carrier of Air Canada. His flight on Delta was delayed, so he ultimately chose to cancel and switch to an Air Canada Rogue flight to Montreal for $100.
[5:19] Katie called Virgin Atlantic to change a KLM flight and faced resistance in her first call, but had a great customer experience on her second call. Hang up and call again, HUCA!
[8:07] In a clip of an interview with planDisney panelists Christine and Matt, Chris asks about what makes planDisney special, mistakes people make while planning Disney trips, and more.
[11:31] The My Disney Experience app is a helpful first step for Disney travelers, along with visiting the Special Offers page. You can watch the full interview on the Upgraded Points YouTube Channel.
Glamping with Points: Best Hilton, Hyatt, & Marriott Stays This Summer
Épisode 6
lundi 19 mai 2025 • Durée 33:56
Looking 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.
From maximizing rewards for summer getaways to real listener questions answered, this episode is packed with practical advice, real travel stories, and deals you don’t want to miss.
For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:
[0:00] Introduction
[0:53] Chris’s family has had three international overnight flights canceled after getting to the airport, mostly due to mechanical problems.
[8:11] Katie just got back from Utah, where she visited Ofland Escalante, which is a glamping resort in the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.
[10:25] Katie stayed in a Deluxe Cabin at the Ofland Escalante. It featured a private bathroom and an outdoor shower.
[13:48] Hyatt has a new promotion where you can earn 20x points for every point you spend at Under Canvas. Additionally, Hilton has a new partnership with AutoCamp with seven locations. Read our review of AutoCamp Zion .
The Best Ways To Earn Points Without a New Card
Épisode 7
lundi 26 mai 2025 • Durée 41:22
Want 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 maximizing your rewards.
For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:
[0:00] Introduction
[0:55] American Airlines’ new Flagship Suites will be debuting on June 5th on the American Airlines Boeing 787-9.
[2:54] Katie is mid-status challenge with Delta, where she has not been very impressed with her status. She has earned Silver status.
[8:10] How can you earn points and miles without opening a new credit card? Katie’s favorite way is by using shopping portals, both through banks and through airlines. Importantly, ad blockers must be turned off for this to work. You can read Katie’s article about how she earned 100,000 points through shopping portals here.
[12:00] The AA portal also allows you to earn loyalty points through online shopping.
Our Favorite Credit Card Perks (That Actually Make Travel Better)
Épisode 8
lundi 2 juin 2025 • Durée 32:02
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, using shopping portals, and maximizing points and miles.
For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:
[0:55] Chris just booked his annual summer trip to New England, a trip that is usually difficult and expensive to book. He paid cash for American Airlines economy, but will get Main Cabin Extra due to his Platinum Pro status.
[4:23] Katie recently visited St Barths. It had a unique European feel for an island in the Caribbean.
[7:20] She stayed at Hotel Manapany, a hotel surrounded by the jungle with gorgeous views. To her surprise, she enjoyed the breakfast buffet there despite generally hating buffets.
[11:20] One of Chris’s favorite cards is the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card. Despite currently having an eye-watering $150 yearly fee, it comes with a $400 yearly resort credit.
[13:03] Katie is a fan of the Chase Sapphire Reserve lounge access benefits. The Chase Sapphire Lounges are a small but growing group of luxury lounges.
Book These Business Class Flights with Points in 2025
Épisode 10
lundi 16 juin 2025 • Durée 18:30
In 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 which travel perks are actually worth it.
Finally, they answer a listener's question: Are points only useful if you book last minute? Find out how to make the most of your points no matter when your travel is for.
Timestamps:
[0:00] Welcome! Chris and Katie kick things off with a fun routing tip—how a stopover in Hawaii could score you a cheaper business class flight to Japan.
[4:10] Chris and Katie start digging into their favorite business class redemptions booked with points, starting with Qatar Airways Qsuites..
[6:30] How to find award space, what makes ANA’s business class special, and why flying from Hawaii can save you a lot. Booking tips for Japan Airlines, Condor, and KLM, plus the importance of using tools like seats.aero to find award space.
[10:00] Why same-itinerary bookings from smaller airports can be a game changer, especially when flights get disrupted.
[14:00] How can you access the Delta Sky Club? The easiest way is with an American Express Platinum Card, which will get you ten visits. If you need more visits, you can get the Delta Sky Miles Reserve Card for fifteen visits.
[15:43] Additionally, if you are flying Delta One or flying internationally as a diamond, platinum, or gold member flying in Delta One or Premium Select, you can get access.
[20:00] Other lounges in the Atlanta airport include the Centurion Lounge as well as some basic Priority Pass lounges.
[22:45] Can you use points to book travel for someone else? For flights, it’s very easy; you can just use the name of the person who will be flying. For hotels, it’s a little more complicated. You can try adding them as a guest, but some hotels may not let your guest check in without you. For Marriott, you have to call.
[26:13] What is the difference between transferable points and fixed miles points? A flexible point is a point you earn with a bank directly. Flexible points can be transferred wherever you want to use them. On the other hand, fixed points apply only to the airline or hotel chain with which you earn them.
[20:42] Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination right now, and there are many hotels you can stay at and use points. W Punta de Mita is a great option, St. Regis Punta Mita for Marriott Points and The Conrad Punta de Mita for Hilton Points.
[22:22] The Westin Puerto Vallarta will become an all-inclusive in 2026.
[24:19] If you want to keep it simple, Katie says the Capitol One Venture X is the best single credit card for a traveler to get if they plan on only getting one.
[28:24] Another listener asks about the best ways to avoid annual fees with travel credit cards. Chris found the US Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card, which has lounge access and no annual fee.
[18:57] The Celestial World has a roller coaster called Stardust Racers that is a dual-track coaster. It was very fast and extreme, and is in the running for Chris’ favorite roller coaster.
[23:14] Where are the best hotels to book for planning a trip to Universal? Staying on property is going to be your best option if you don’t plan on leaving the parks much, and hotels like the Terra Luna offer great prices. You can also stay at hotels like the Hard Rock that offer express passes.
[27:24] It can be challenging to buy theme park tickets at a discount. Chris likes to go through Undercover Tourist for tickets in cash, which is well-known and sometimes gives discounts. Those tickets also code as travel on your credit card.
[29:17] How can you continue to get points as a solo points player? Katie says there isn’t a big difference between playing as a solo player or with another player. In ten-plus years of points and miles, Katie has not run out of sign-up bonuses to earn.
[34:27] Should you be buying points? It can make sense to buy points, but for casual travelers, it is difficult to know if you are getting a good deal. Points can be devalued at any moment, so it is ideal to have a specific goal in mind.
Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.
Submit questions or comments for the show to podcast@upgradedpoints.com
[14:46] The Chase Sapphire Preferred card has a massive welcome offer of 100,000 bonus points with only a $95 annual fee. This is a $1,250 minimum value!
[19:38] When you book a Hyatt hotel with points, you do not have to pay any resort fees.
[20:13] Can you apply for a new Chase Sapphire Preferred card if you already have one to get the new welcome bonus? You cannot, but there are ways around it as long as you have not gotten a welcome bonus from a Chase Sapphire card in the past 48 months, nor applied for 5 or more cards in the past 24 months. You can downgrade your card, wait about a week, and then apply again.
[23:30] One listener asks about flying into New York the day of a flight to Japan to save on hotels. Chris advises against this to minimize the risk of missing the Japan flight in the case of a delay.
Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.
[18:00] Between AutoCamp and Under Canvas, Katie prefers AutoCamp because they have a vintage airstream option.
[19:11] What are the best cards for last-minute summer redemptions? Katie suggests the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, which allow you to use points to “erase” travel charges within 90 days.
[20:31] Another option for more experienced travelers is the American Airlines AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®. After making your first purchase, you can earn 60,000 miles (at the time of recording).
[24:50] How can your family avoid high prices for summer travel? Your best option is to start planning early. Additionally, find room to be flexible in other areas, like your destination or airline.
[27:20] Katie sometimes buys flights with cash instead of points, particularly when the points value is too low. Upgraded Points has a points valuation article to help you understand point values.
[30:30] How can you keep your kids entertained on long flights? Younger kids can be kept busy with toys and books, while older kids may be able to keep themselves busy with tech. Chris says the key is bringing snacks.
Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.
[14:33] Simplymiles can allow you to stack promotions, though its deals have been hit-or-miss recently.
[17:02] You can also strategically spend with the credit cards you already have by spending in specific categories. You can get cards for dining, online shopping, and groceries.
[21:24] You can refer your spouse or friends to credit cards for additional bonuses, which can be a reliable way to earn if you know someone else in the points and miles game.
[23:26] Another way to earn is by signing up for dining programs at places you like to eat.
[29:35] You can call and tell customer service that you are considering canceling your card and ask if there are any retention offers available.
[31:26] The Bilt Mastercard allows you to earn bonus points on rent without an annual fee.
[36:30] Is it better to transfer your points to airlines, or to book directly through your credit card portal? In general, it is better to book through the airlines because you get a more dynamic value.
[38:30] Can you use your travel perks for someone else traveling with you? It depends on the perks. Citi AA Executive allows immediate family and up to 2 guests to join the primary cardmember, while Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders can bring up to two guests into Chase Sapphire Lounges for free.
Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.
[13:58] Chris has the Citi Prestige Card, which you can no longer apply for. It is one of the last credit cards that comes with a priority pass with restaurants included.
[15:07] Katie’s next favorite perk is the $50 Saks credit on the Amex Platinum.
[17:03] The Citi Strata Premier now includes travel insurance. For a $95 annual fee, the insurance comes with benefits that make the card worth the fee.
[18:11] Katie’s next pick is the Loyalty Point bonus on American Airlines Executive Mastercard.
[19:06] Chris’s Hilton Aspire Card comes with a CLEAR credit, which goes towards a CLEAR+ account.
[20:46] The Admirals Club access for the American Airlines Executive Card is another one of Katie’s favorites, though she notes that it is only worth it if you are a frequent traveler.
[23:57] Another American Airlines Executive perk that Katie appreciates is the $120 Avis/Budget car rental credit.
[25:10] The Global Entry TSA Pre-Check credits are a common but useful perk.
[27:22] Chris brings up the $25 WiFi credit on his Barclays Aviator Red card that is going away as American Airlines cards move exclusively to Citi and AA rolls out free WiFi.
[28:44] Are shopping portals worth it? Katie says they are. Shopping portals do not cost you anything extra and allow you to earn points, though you may need to turn off your ad blockers.
[30:00] What happens if you cancel a flight you booked with points? Chris says that in many cases, you can get your points back. However, each airline has its own policy, and some have cancellation penalties.
Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.
Want to unlock business class for economy prices? Sign up for our free award alerts newsletter and follow us for the latest deals, guides, and tips.
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