{ AFFILIATE POST }
When Jeff and I were first married we both wanted to see the world. Travel was on the top of our list but as a young couple how the heck could we afford it? I wanted to make travel more affordable. I researched how to make the most of some travel programs that are out there.
In fact, points programs are absolutely worth it, and if you aren’t taking advantage of them, you are really missing out!
The one warning I have for you is if you are not good with a credit card then this method is not for you.
I use two programs that help me off set the cost of our travel.
Generally speaking, I use my credit cards for everything. To be sure that I don’t keep a balance, I go right online each night and make a payment. This way, I earn the points, I don’t keep a balance and I don’t rack up interest. I split my purchases between my two favorite points cards. This way I can travel with some great benefits and at an affordable price!
First, the program I couldn’t live without is Marriott Bonvoy (or previously Marriott Rewards). I have the Marriott Chase Credit Card and I earn points with everyday purchases.
With Marriott Bonvoy you earn points on all eligible hotel purchases, including dining, beverages and more! If you pay to stay at Marriott and use your card to pay instead of using points you will earn 10 points per $1 US Dollar! The only exceptions to that are at Element, Residence Inn and TownePlace Suites hotels where you earn 5 points per $1 US Dollar.
Also, depending on what level you are on you can get added benefits like, upgraded rooms, late checkout, enhanced internet access, exclusive member rates, mobile checkin and more.
Marriott Bonvoy has no blackout dates. You can combine cash and points to get a room a lesser cost and you can instantly redeem your points!
Here’s a tip: Be sure you look into deals that Marriott may be offering or if you are going on a trip find the cheapest rooms and pay for them instead of using your points. Also, it helps grow your points balance fast and soon you will be able to use your points for any trip you want!
We truly have saved thousands and have been able to go so many places with our points! I can’t say enough about it! It has really helped to make travel more affordable.
If you are interested in signing up for Marriott points you can use the link below to apply!
You can earn a 3 Free Night Award with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ Credit Card. I can be rewarded too if you apply here and are approved for the card.
https://www.referyourchasecard.com/252a/NRTK1V6HTH
The other card that I use is a Citi American Airlines card. Airfare can really make or break a trips budget. You earn miles by flying and using the credit card for everyday purchases. There are no blackout dates and if a seat is available you can book it! You can use your miles to upgrade to first class or business class.
Photo Credit: Everlasting Photography
With a family of four it can cost up to $60 per person round trip to check each bag. That is an extra $240 on top of your airfare! If you get the Citi American Airlines card you get your first checked bag free on domestic flights for you and up to four travel companions. You also get preferred boarding, savings on food and beverages on flight if you use your card, and no foreign transactions fees.
You get 1 mile (point) for every dollar you spend, 2 miles (points) for every dollar you spend at restaurants and gas stations, and 2 miles (points) for every dollar spent on American Airline purchases.
If you are interested in the Citi American Airlines card you can click the link below to apply!
https://www.citibank.com.ph/share-rewards?ecid=&Ref=3982138613
Check out all of our travels here and Be sure to share your travels with us on instagram and use #roadandtable
I hope these tips help you to be able to get out and make some travel memories!
If you have any questions feel free to ask in the comment section below or email me at roadandtable@yahoo.com
Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
