Explore every episode of the podcast Lazy Budget Travel Tips
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| From Attorney to Travel Expert: Jen Ruiz on Maximizing Points for Affordable Travel | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:50:26 | |
In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, host Genni Franklin interviews Jen Ruiz, a former attorney turned travel expert who's mastered the art of finding unbeatable flight deals and maximizing points and miles to make traveling more affordable. Jen shares her strategies for snagging flights as low as $16 to Ecuador and $38 to New Zealand and her insights into budget travel that doesnât compromise on quality or experience. Jen also talks about her bestselling books on affordable travel and gives a sneak peek of her upcoming sequel to her latest book, '12 Trips in 12 Months.' Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction Episode Resources:
Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| Getting Started: Points and Miles 101 | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:19:45 | |
In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, host Genni Franklin breaks down the fundamentals of points, miles, and loyalty programs. She explains what points and miles are, how they function as a form of currency in loyalty programs, and the different types of points travelers can earn. The episode also covers the difference between flexible and non-flexible points, and how to best utilize travel rewards credit cards. Genni emphasizes the importance of understanding these basics to make the most out of budget travel strategies. Listeners will gain the foundational knowledge needed to confidently use points and miles to make their trips more affordable.  Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Points and Miles 00:58 Understanding Points and Miles 03:10 Earning Points and Miles 07:09 Flexible vs Non-Flexible Points 08:13 Flexible Points: Examples and Benefits 12:11 Non-Flexible Points: Examples and Limitations 16:17 Key Takeaways and Conclusion Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| Introducing the Lazy Budget Travel Tips Podcast! | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:09:23 | |
Welcome to Lazy Budget Travel Tips! In this episode, Genni discusses the podcastâs mission to help listeners travel more affordably without compromising on comfort or quality. From her personal journey in the hospitality industry to becoming a budget travel expert, Genni shares how she uses loyalty rewards and credit card points, and other strategies to travel on a budget. Stay tuned for future episodes featuring practical budget travel strategies, real-life experiences, and guest interviews. Timestamps:
Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| Trailer | 22 Feb 2025 | 00:01:42 | |
 Welcome to Lazy Budget Travel Tips with Genni Franklin In this trailer for the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, host Genni Franklin gives you the inside scoop on the show. If you're tired of overcomplicated strategies and just want straightforward, practical advice on budget-friendly travel, youâre in the right place! Genni, a seasoned traveler and founder of the Traveling Franklins blog and Lazy Budget Travel Tips Facebook group, is here to help everyday travelers navigate the world of points and miles without all the stress. Whether you're looking to stretch your travel budget or make the most of your travel rewards, Genni's got you covered with simple tips, real-life stories, and easy-to-follow strategies. Each episode will feature solo segments, fun guest chats, and listener stories, all aimed at helping you travel smarter without the overwhelm. New episodes drop weekly, so make sure to subscribe and get ready to learn how to save money and travel more! Launch date coming soon! Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| The Smart Way to Buy Points and Score Luxury Stays on a Budget | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:49:46 | |
In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, host Genni Franklin sits down with Ionna from @travelpointsandviews to talk about one of the most underrated (and misunderstood) strategies in the points and miles world:Â Buying Points. Thatâs rightâpaying money for points can actually make sense in the right situation. From scoring a $3,100 luxury hotel stay in NYC for just $1,600 to planning a $10K Miraval trip using a clever buy-and-transfer combo, Ionna breaks down when and why buying points is a power move, not a rookie mistake. Youâll learn:
If youâve ever scrolled past a âbuy points now!â email and thought âyeah, hard passââthis episode might change your mind. Timestamps:
Links + Mentions: Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| Big Trip, Small Budget: 5 Weeks in Europe with Points and $100 a Day | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:59:53 | |
Big Trip, Small Budget: How Kendyl Traveled Europe for 5 1/2 Weeks using Points & $100 a Day (for 2 people) In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, host Genni Franklin welcomes Kendyl Grender, a budget travel expert behind @kendyltravels. Kendyl shares her story about how she and her husband spent 5 1/2 weeks traveling through Europe on points and just $100 a day for food, activities, and transportation. From strategic credit card use to eating like a local, Kendyl shares exactly how she made it happen, without sacrificing comfort or missing out on epic experiences. Youâll learn:
Timestamps:Â
Connect with Kendyl: Learn more about Kendyl's adventures and tips by visiting her website and following her on social media. Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| Exploring National Parks on a Budget | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:44:17 | |
In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, Genni Franklin is joined by Teresa Kul, a national parks enthusiast who has visited 356 out of 433 park sites, including all 50 states. Weâre diving into one of the most scenic (and surprisingly strategic!) travel topics: how to plan a national park trip without blowing your budget. Whether you dream of hiking through Zion, exploring caves in Kentucky, or relaxing by alpine lakes in Montana, this episode is packed with tips for stretching your dollars, using travel rewards wisely, and even finding last-minute lodging like a pro. In This Episode:
Whether you're just getting into Points & Miles or already have a park pass packed with stamps, this oneâs for you. Timestamps:Â
Resources Mentioned:
Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| One Card, Five Flights, and a Whole New Way to Travel | 23 Jun 2025 | 00:49:55 | |
In this episode, Genni is joined by Kelsey Graves, a travel-loving mom, podcast host, and content creator whoâs made unforgettable family trips possible, starting with just one travel rewards credit card. Kelsey shares how opening the Chase Sapphire Preferred card turned into five free flights to NYC for her family, a luxe couples escape to Cabo, and a summer road trip to the Grand Canyon and Page, Arizonaâall booked with points. Sheâs learned to earn smarter, redeem better, and enjoy bougie travel without the bougie budget. This episode is for you if:
⨠What Youâll Learn:
Timestamps:Â
Follow Kelsey: Resources Mentioned:
Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| Diving into Affordable Luxury: Short All-Inclusive Trips on Points | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:54:02 | |
In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, host Genni Franklin dives into luxury travel that doesnât require months of PTO or millions of points. Joined by Jen Wennerberg from Dive Into Points, this episode is all about how short, all-inclusive tripsâespecially using Hyatt pointsâcan offer big luxury without the big spend. Jen is a mom of three, a passionate scuba diver, and a points and miles enthusiast who shows us that you can sneak away for quick three- to four-night getaways, dive into epic experiences, and come back refreshed, without draining your points or your wallet. We cover how Jen got started with points, why she prioritizes Hyatt all-inclusives, how to plan short, luxurious escapes, and the value you can get per point (think 2â3 cents per point and $600-a-night resorts for free!). Plus, she shares tips on balancing parent life and travel, how to onboard a reluctant Player Two, and why room service might be the most underrated perk of all.  Timestamps:
Episode Resources:
Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| How to Find the Perfect Travel Rewards Card for You | 09 Jun 2025 | 00:32:26 | |
Feeling overwhelmed by all the travel credit card options out there? Youâre not alone. In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, host Genni Franklin breaks down how to confidently choose the right travel rewards credit cardâfor you. Not the one your coworker loves. Not the one influencers are pushing. The one that actually fits your lifestyle, travel goals, and budget. Weâre covering everything from the types of points you can earn to what to do after you get approved (or denied), so youâll know exactly how to get started with points and miles the smart and sustainable way. đ§ What Youâll Learn:
Time Stamps Episode Resources:
Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| $1 Timeshare, $0 Cruise: How Timeshare Trading + Points Makes Travel Affordable | 02 Jun 2025 | 00:53:31 | |
In this episode: Heather from Homeschooling on Points joins Genni to share how she books magical tripsâincluding a $5,200 Disney cruise for $0 and a one-bedroom DVC suite for $508âwith creative strategies that most points and miles pros arenât talking about. And don't worry, this episode isn't only about saving on Disney. Youâll learn:
Plus, Heather shares how she plans vacations around real life, not just aspirational. Timestamps:
Links + Resources: Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| Getting Your Reluctant P2 On Board with Points and Miles | 19 May 2025 | 00:41:27 | |
Ever wish your partner would just get on board with points and miles? Youâre not alone! In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, I sit down with my husband, Brandon, to talk about his complete 180âfrom being totally against credit cards to actively strategizing when itâs time for us to open a new one. Weâll chat about:
If your partner thinks points and miles arenât worth it, or if youâre trying to ease them into the game without overwhelming them, this episode is for you! Episode BreakdownÂ
Got questions? Join the conversation in the Lazy Budget Travel Tips Facebook Group or hit me up on Instagram @travelingfranklins! Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| Understanding Your Credit Score and How Travel Credit Cards Affect It | 12 May 2025 | 00:13:14 | |
In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, host Genni Franklin breaks down how credit scores work, why they matter, and how travel rewards credit cards can impact them. Genni explains the components of a credit score, such as payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, and credit mix. She emphasizes the importance of responsible credit card use and offers practical tips on monitoring and improving your credit score. She also covers how you can check your credit score for free. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Credit Scores and Travel Rewards Check your Credit Score - for FREE You only need the free plans, you don't need a paid plan! Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| Making Disney Affordable with Chelsea from Pixie Point Gals | 05 May 2025 | 01:13:13 | |
In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, host Genni Franklin dives into the pressing question of whether a trip to Disney can be affordable amidst rising costs. Joined by Chelsea Buck from Pixie Point Gals, who is well-versed in saving money on Disney vacations using points and miles, the episode sheds light on various strategies. This includes renting Disney Vacation Club (DVC) points to stay at deluxe resorts for a fraction of the cost. Chelsea shares her family's deep-rooted Disney obsession and the tricks they use to visit Disney World several times a year. The discussion covers the differences between Disney World and Disneyland vacations, tips on using points and miles for flights and hotels, and the value of flexible points programs. Additionally, they delve into the advantages of staying at Disney deluxe resorts, on-site dining, and leveraging perks like early morning entries and evening hours. Tune in to learn how to make your dream Disney trip a reality without breaking the bank! Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Affordable Disney Travel  Episode Resources: Traveling Franklins blog post: 10 Ways to Save Money on Disney Hotels Connect with Chelsea and Disney Point Gals on Instagram and their website. Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| Season 1 Wrap Up: Travelmore Conference, UK Adventures & Whatâs Ahead | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:04:41 | |
Season 1 of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast is officially wrapped! In this short update, Iâm sharing why Iâm taking a quick break before launching Season 2, whatâs on the horizon this fall, and how you can stay connected in the meantime. Hereâs what youâll hear:
đ Stay connected with me during the break:
Thank you for being part of this communityâIâm so grateful for your support. Season 2 is coming soon, and I canât wait to bring you more tips, stories, and strategies to help you travel more for less. And as alwaysâkeep it simple, keep it fun, and keep exploring! Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| Best Flights, Best Prices: Google Flights Tips with Taima | 18 Aug 2025 | 01:02:07 | |
If youâve ever booked the cheapest flight⌠only to find yourself on a three-layover marathon wishing youâd spent a little more, this episode is going to change how you search forever. Iâm joined by Taima Ramsey from Poor in a Private Plane, whoâs made a career out of finding luxury travel experiences without the luxury price tag. Together, weâre breaking down how to find the best flightsânot just the cheapestâso you can travel in comfort without blowing your budget. In this episode, we cover:
Timestamps:
Links & Resources:
Follow Taima: Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| From Zero to $30,000 in Savings: Iran's Journey with Travel Points and Miles | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:47:30 | |
In this episode of the Lazy Budget Travel Tips podcast, Iâm joined by Iranâsomeone who proves you donât need to do everything perfectly to travel big with points and miles. Iran started just like many of us: no clue about travel rewards, just a tempting Delta offer in her inbox. Fast forward a year, and sheâs booked a $7,400+ trip to Kauai for her familyâflights, Hyatt stay, lounge access, and upgrades includedâfor under $50. And now? Sheâs planning a $30,000 Europe adventure using points. Iran shares:
Iranâs story is down-to-earth and encouraging, especially if youâre just starting out or still figuring it all out. Timestamps:
Links + Mentions:
Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| European Christmas Markets in Berlin, Munich, Salzburg & Paris | 04 Aug 2025 | 01:05:01 | |
In this episode, Genni and her mom, Gloria, continue Part 2 of their magical European Christmas market adventure! From bratwurst and gingerbread in Berlin to twinkling lights in Paris, they share their favorite markets, cozy eats, money-saving hacks, and what theyâd do differently next time. đ Whether you're dreaming of a festive winter trip or just love hearing about holiday food and travel mishaps, this oneâs for you. ⨠Highlights:
Timestamps: 00:00 â Intro đ Trip Overview Berlin Munich Salzburg (Day Trip) Paris âď¸ Pro Tip: Bring bubble wrap if youâre collecting Christmas market mugs â it saved their souvenirs on the way home! Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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| Christmas in July: Planning Our Dream Trip to Europeâs Christmas Markets | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:48:04 | |
In this 2 Part episode, host Genni Franklin is joined by her mom (and OG travel partner), Gloria, to recount the beginning of their magical multi-city European Christmas market adventure. They share how they turned a bucket list dream into realityâon a budgetâusing points and miles to book flights to Germany, planning a strategic 13-hour layover in Amsterdam, and kicking off their holiday itinerary in Berlin. From how they chose their destinations to why AirTags might actually stress you out, this episode is packed with practical advice, behind-the-scenes planning, and hilarious mother-daughter moments. Whether youâre dreaming of glĂźhwein and twinkling lights or just want a cozy travel story to escape the summer heat, youâll get helpful tips for planning your own festive getawayâwithout breaking the bank. And don't forget to listen to Part 2! đ Topics covered:
Timestamps:
 đ§ Listen now and come back next week for Part 2, where theyâll cover the rest of the trip through Berlin, Munich, Salzburg, and Parisâplus their favorite Christmas market of all and how they made the most of their short stays. Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube. Check out more from Genni:
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