How Using Credit Card Points Changed the Way I Travel Forever

I used to think luxury travel was only for the rich. You know the kind like business class flights, 5-star hotels, airport lounges. I’d scroll through Instagram, watching people live out their dream vacations and wonder, how are they affording this?

Meanwhile, I was the budget traveler. I’d spend hours digging for the cheapest flights, book mystery hotels on Priceline just to save a few bucks, and convince myself that sacrificing comfort was part of the adventure. Sometimes it worked. Most of the time, I ended up in a basic room, wishing I had spent just a little more.

Then I discovered how to use credit cards strategically and everything changed.

From Budget Stays to Dream Trips

No, I didn’t win the lottery. I just learned how to travel smarter.

Once I started understanding how points and miles work, it completely transformed the way I plan my trips. I wasn’t just randomly booking anymore. I was earning rewards with a purpose.

Now, I use cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Platinum, and Capital One Venture X to earn points on everyday spending. I redeem them for flights especially long-haul trips, or wait for transfer bonuses to get the most value. If the redemption isn’t a good deal, I pay in cash using the right card to keep stacking points for later.

Either way, I’m never wasting a swipe. I’m building my next vacation.

Hotels? I Do It Differently Now

I’ve officially retired from mystery bookings.

These days, I book directly with hotels when I can. It helps me earn loyalty points, unlock perks like early check-in or free breakfast, and work toward elite status. But when I’m in a rush or looking for package deals, I still use platforms like Expedia or Travelocity—just with the right card and stacking strategy.

I also use Rakuten to get cashback or extra Amex Membership Rewards on hotel bookings and everyday purchases. It’s free, easy to use, and honestly one of the most underrated tools for travelers.

The key is knowing when to use what. Strategy over randomness every time.

What Traveling With Points Actually Feels Like

It feels smarter. More rewarding. And honestly? More fun.

There’s something magical about booking a $1,200 flight for just taxes and fees, or checking into a boutique hotel knowing you paid with points and perks. I still love the feeling of luxury—but now I get it for way less, because I plan ahead and let my cards work for me.

This isn’t about being flashy. It’s about freedom. And once you experience it, there’s no going back.

Ready to Travel Smarter?

If travel has ever felt too expensive or out of reach, I promise there’s another way. You don’t need to be a points expert. You just need to start.

✨ Grab my free guide on how to make credit card annual fees totally worth it — get it here
✨ See my favorite travel credit cards for earning points and perks — check them out here
✨ Don’t forget to sign up for Rakuten to earn cash back and rewards on everyday spending — sign up here

Your dream trips? They’re closer than you think.
Start small. Travel smart. Let your points take you places you never thought possible. 💫

Please note: This page may contain affiliate links or partner links, including credit card offers. I may earn a commission if you choose to sign up or make a purchase at no additional cost to you.