Smart Travel Tips – Revolutionizing Your Journey

Quick Hits: Is it Time to Give Up the Capital One Venture X? Huge IHG SUB, Thrifty Traveler’s 10th Birthday and More!

By Bakir Djulic | June 6, 2025

In this value-packed Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke breaks down the most significant developments in the points and miles world—from exciting transfer bonuses and premium card promos to major airline pricing changes and credit card legislation that could impact your travel rewards. He highlights Thrifty Traveler’s limited-time 50% off deal, an elevated IHG card bonus offering 5 free nights, new baggage fees from Southwest, and a game-changing partnership between United and JetBlue.

DeAndre also shares updates on Amex, Chase, and Citi transfer bonuses, the Capital One lounge guest access shake-up, and the growing concern over the Credit Card Competition Act. Whether you’re just getting started with points or already planning your next redemption, there’s something in this episode for you. Listeners are also reminded to take advantage of free strategy consultations to get personalized travel game plans.

Key takeaways:

Thrifty Traveler Premium: 50% off during their 10th anniversary sale.
IHG Premier Card: New signup bonus with five free night certificates.
Delta Fixes Pricing: Ends higher solo traveler fares.
Southwest Changes: Ends “bags fly free” policy.
Transfer Bonuses: 30% Amex → Avios, 25% Chase → Virgin, 25% Citi → Wyndham.
United x JetBlue Partnership: Easier booking, point redemptions, and elite perks.
Capital One Lounge Access: Guest access gets more expensive in 2026.
Credit Card Competition Act: Could threaten reward programs—take action.
Free Travel Strategy Sessions: Book through our website for personalized assistance.

Resources:

Interested in Financial Planning?

Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
Travel Freely
Point.me
FlightConnections.com
Thrifty Traveler Premium
LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
- Use coupon code “BOLDYGO” for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre Coke:

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Planning the Ultimate F1 Grand Prix Experience on Points with Jenna of @travelersinlaw (Ep. 71)

By Bakir Djulic | April 23, 2025

Ever wondered how to make luxury travel to a world-class Formula 1 race affordable?

In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, host DeAndre Coke sits down with attorney-turned-travel-hacker Jenna of @travelersinlaw to explore exactly that. Jenna shares how she went from burnout in the legal profession to building a lifestyle fueled by points and miles—one that now includes an upcoming trip to the F1 Italian Grand Prix 2025 in Monza.

They dive into how to strategically earn and redeem points, the best credit card approaches for high-value travel, and what it takes to attend global events like Formula 1 without breaking the bank. Jenna also opens up about how travel became part of her self-care routine, why it’s okay to explore without a perfect itinerary, and how busy professionals can still make unforgettable trips a reality.

This episode is packed with real-world advice, smart strategies, and inspiration for travelers looking to elevate their experiences using points and miles.

Key Highlights:

Burnout Recovery: Travel as a tool for self-care and balance.
Credit Strategy: Smart use of cards and bonus categories boosts rewards.
Monza Planning: Insight into budgeting for the 2025 Italian Grand Prix.
Luxury on Points: Premium hotels and flights are within reach with the right strategy.
F1 Travel Costs: What to expect and how to offset costs with points.
Flexible Itineraries: It’s okay not to plan every minute—some freedom is part of the fun.
Credit Scores: Managing your credit while optimizing travel benefits.
Busy Professionals: Why taking time off is essential—and how to make it worth it.
Long-Term Wins: Starting small in points and miles leads to big travel gains.