Episodios

  • 149. Micro-Trips: Short Getaways With Mega Value

    149. Micro-Trips: Short Getaways With Mega Value
    Oct 7 2025
    Short getaways don’t have to be stressful or require a full week off. In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad explores the world of micro-trips: perfectly sized escapes that deliver maximum value and relaxation. Alex, Jess, and Pam share their experiences planning and enjoying these quick getaways, from domestic city breaks to international trips, and show how even a few nights can feel like a meaningful vacation.

    You will hear which destinations work best for micro-trips based on your location, why some luxury properties are actually ideal for shorter stays, and how to make the most of points and free night certificates. Tune in for ideas on destinations, strategies for using points, and honest feedback from their own adventures.

    You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: travelmomsquad.com/149

    Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: travelmomsquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/

    The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@travelmomsquad

    Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/travelmomsquad
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    30 m
  • 148. Break These Popular Award Travel "Rules"

    148. Break These Popular Award Travel "Rules"
    Sep 30 2025
    The world of points and miles can feel overwhelming when everyone has an opinion on the “right” way to do things. In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad break down common travel rewards advice and show why it doesn’t always apply to every traveler. From what counts as smart redemptions to how to prioritize your points, they give you permission to ignore the rules and focus on what works for your own goals.

    Throughout the episode, the Squad shares examples from their own travel experiences. If you’ve ever felt pressure to follow the “expert” advice, Alex, Jess, and Pam help you cut through the noise. You’ll learn when breaking typical points and miles rules makes sense, how to tailor your strategy to your lifestyle, and why there’s no single right way to make your points work for you.

    You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: travelmomsquad.com/148

    Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: travelmomsquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/

    The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@travelmomsquad

    Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/travelmomsquad
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    31 m
  • 147. Staying at the Miraval Arizona All-Inclusive Wellness Resort on Points

    147. Staying at the Miraval Arizona All-Inclusive Wellness Resort on Points
    Sep 23 2025
    Does a getaway to a wellness resort seem like an unattainable luxury? Alex and Jess recently stayed at Miraval Arizona. In this episode, they’re sharing their experience from booking their flights and room to their favorite activities, and everything in between. While Miraval is known for its premium wellness experience, they’re here to show you how it can be more accessible, especially when booking with points.

    They’ll also give you the honest rundown on the resort’s all-inclusive offerings, the digital-device-free policy, and how the resort credits worked to enhance their experience. Plus, they compare their time at Miraval Arizona to Jess's previous visit to Miraval Austin, giving you the inside scoop on which location might be the best fit for you. Tune in for their honest feedback on the Miraval experience and what you can expect if you choose to visit.

    You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: travelmomsquad.com/147

    Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: travelmomsquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/

    The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@travelmomsquad

    Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/travelmomsquad
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    41 m
  • 146. One Card From Each Bank: Our Top Picks

    146. One Card From Each Bank: Our Top Picks
    Sep 16 2025
    Which credit card would you choose if you could only pick one from each major bank? In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad shares their top picks and explains why each card works best for their individual travel habits, home airports, and spending priorities. While there isn’t a single right answer for everyone, their discussion gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how they approach selecting cards for real-world travel.

    The Squad debates and compares cards across categories, weighing benefits, earning potential, and annual fees. They highlight why some cards are better suited for certain spending patterns or travel goals, and what subtle perks can make a difference for one traveler versus another. As a bonus, they also reveal which hotel and airline card they would pick if they could only select one, giving you insight into how to think about those decisions as well.

    You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: travelmomsquad.com/146

    Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: travelmomsquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/

    The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@travelmomsquad

    Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/travelmomsquad
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    45 m
  • 145. How To Earn the Southwest® Companion Pass for Free Flights

    145. How To Earn the Southwest® Companion Pass for Free Flights
    Sep 9 2025
    Ever wondered how you can fly someone for free on all your Southwest® flights for the next year or two? The Southwest® Companion Pass® is one of the most valuable perks in travel rewards, especially for families who travel frequently. It allows a companion to fly with you for just taxes and fees, giving you the chance to maximize your trips without extra cost. With recent changes to Southwest® credit cards and policies, knowing how to earn and use the pass effectively is key.

    The Travel Mom Squad breaks down the essential strategies for earning the Southwest® Companion Pass® through credit card welcome offers. They explain the main paths to earning enough points to qualify, the timing strategies to avoid common mistakes, and how to coordinate personal and business cards to make the process simpler. The Squad also shares insights on using referral bonuses to get additional points and how to approach the pass if you’re managing multiple cards or family members.

    You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: travelmomsquad.com/145

    Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: travelmomsquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/

    The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@travelmomsquad

    Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/travelmomsquad
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    34 m
  • 144. First-Time International Travel Made Easy: Top Destinations and Practical Tips

    144. First-Time International Travel Made Easy: Top Destinations and Practical Tips
    Sep 2 2025
    Are you feeling overwhelmed about planning your first international trip? From excitement about exploring a new destination to concerns about currency exchanges, language barriers, and navigating unfamiliar transportation systems, there’s a lot to consider. But whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned domestic traveler, the good news is that with a little preparation, international travel can be far less intimidating than it seems.

    In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad breaks down the essential tips and strategies for anyone planning their first trip abroad. They discuss why certain destinations are perfect for easing into international travel and how to make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. With insights from each of their personal travel experiences, the Squad highlights the most important factors to consider when planning your first international adventure.

    You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: travelmomsquad.com/144

    Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: travelmomsquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/

    The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@travelmomsquad

    Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/travelmomsquad
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    45 m
  • 143. Europe Travel with Kids: Traci's Hotel Booking Strategies for Families

    143. Europe Travel with Kids: Traci's Hotel Booking Strategies for Families
    Aug 26 2025
    Do you struggle to find hotel rooms in Europe that can accommodate your entire family? Many European hotels limit occupancy to just two guests per room, leaving families either piecing together multiple bookings or endlessly searching for those rare properties that actually sleep four or more. And because of strict occupancy rules, you can’t just show up with extra kids and hope for the best — some hotels will turn you away at check-in.

    Today, Traci joins Alex and Jess to share her extensive research and personal experience booking family-friendly hotels across Europe using points. She’s uncovered unicorn properties that fit four people without hassle, smart strategies for booking two rooms with points, and surprising ways travel portals can actually be useful for families. Whether you're traveling with toddlers who need to stay close or teens who’d prefer their own space, these strategies will help you navigate the unique challenges of European hotel bookings while still getting great value from your points.

    You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: travelmomsquad.com/143

    Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: travelmomsquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/

    The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@travelmomsquad

    Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/travelmomsquad
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    50 m
  • 142. Chase Ultimate Rewards®: Key Updates & Our Favorite Earning Cards

    142. Chase Ultimate Rewards®: Key Updates & Our Favorite Earning Cards
    Aug 19 2025
    Are Chase Ultimate Rewards® still the best points for travel? The Travel Mom Squad certainly thinks so. These points offer unmatched flexibility and value, making them a cornerstone of any serious travel rewards strategy. With recent changes to Chase’s offerings, this episode is your guide to the essential updates in 2025.

    In this episode, the Squad dives into why Chase Ultimate Rewards® remain their top choice and breaks down all the cards that earn them. From the revamped Chase Sapphire Reserve® to the no-annual-fee Freedom cards, they explain how each card fits into a comprehensive strategy to maximize points. Whether you’re planning a luxury hotel stay or flights for your whole family, they’ll share the strategies that turn everyday spending into unforgettable travel experiences.

    You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: travelmomsquad.com/142

    Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: travelmomsquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/

    The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@travelmomsquad

    Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/travelmomsquad
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    39 m