Wonderland on Points | Credit Card Rewards & Budget Travel | Presented by Yahoo! Travel

Mary Ellen and Jo
  • 4.8 (265)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

A show where two adventurous moms share everything they have learned about traveling on credit card points and how to explore the world on a budget.

  1. 1D AGO

    211. Kauai with Points: Saving $8000+ on a Hawaiian Vacation with @Jamie.Travel.Tips

    Planning a Hawaii trip with points? In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we sit down with Jamie to break down her incredible family vacation to Kauai and how she used smart points and miles strategies to save over 8 THOUSAND DOLLARS. We cover how she booked the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa using World of Hyatt points, flight strategies with Hawaiian Airlines and the Southwest Companion Pass, and what it’s really like traveling Hawaii with kids. From exploring Waimea Canyon to finding the best local food spots and using tools like the Shaka Guide, this episode is packed with Hawaii travel tips, Kauai itinerary ideas, and practical ways to maximize points and miles for a dream family vacation. Mentioned in this Episode: Previous episode with Jamie Find Us On Online: Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel Newsletter Wonderland on Points Youtube Channel Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Affiliate Links: Cardpointers Halara (use code "Wonderland" for 10% off) Tobiq 15% Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way! Keywords Hawaii travel, Kauai travel guide, Grand Hyatt Kauai, World of Hyatt points, Hawaii with points, family travel Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines miles, Southwest Companion Pass, Kauai itinerary, Waimea Canyon, travel rewards, points and miles, Hawaii travel tips

    1h 8m

  2. 6D AGO

    210. Midweek Mini: Major Capital One News + Our Favorite Free Apps to Earn Extra Travel Cash

    In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we’re breaking down what it means as Capital One begins moving some of its cards from Mastercard to Discover, and how that shift may affect international travel and card acceptance. We talk through which cards are still the most reliable abroad (including why Venture X remains a strong option). We also share practical ways to stretch your travel budget using apps like Fetch Rewards and Upside, and taking advantage of targeted offers from issuers like American Express. If you want to get more value from your credit cards, stay ahead of industry changes, and learn simple strategies to reduce your travel costs using points and rewards, this episode is packed with practical, actionable tips. Mentioned in this Episode: Mary Ellen's Fetch (Use code MARYELLEN!) Joanna's Fetch (Use code JOANNALYNN) Mary Ellen's Upside (Use code KV4QC) Joanna's Upside (Use Code JOANNA32944) Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Find Us On Online: Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel Newsletter Wonderland on Points Youtube Channel Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Affiliate Links: Cardpointers Halara (use code "Wonderland" for 10% off) Tobiq 15% Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way! Keywords Capital One credit cards, Discover card acceptance, Mastercard vs Discover, Venture X card, travel rewards credit cards, points and miles, Airbnb gift cards, Rakuten cashback, Fetch Rewards app, credit card offers, American Express promotions, maximize travel rewards, budget travel strategies

    15 min

  3. APR 27

    209. Hyatt Regency Tamaya: The Ultimate Mom’s Trip to Albuquerque (plus a surprise at the end you won't see coming!)

    Looking for a unique, culturally rich getaway you can book with points? In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we’re taking you inside Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa in New Mexico—a stunning desert resort that blends luxury with meaningful cultural experiences. We’re sharing exactly how we booked this stay using World of Hyatt points, plus what you need to know to get great value on your own trip. We dive into what makes this property so special, from immersive Native American cultural experiences with the Santa Ana Pueblo to standout amenities like horseback riding, biking trails, and more. Whether you’re planning a family trip or just want something beyond the typical beach resort, this episode is full of tips to help you maximize your points while creating a truly memorable travel experience. Mentioned in this Episode: Girls Trip MEET UP Interest Form Hyatt Regency Tamaya YouTube tour World Balloon Experience Mary Ellen's Boots Find Us On Online: Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel Newsletter Wonderland on Points Youtube Channel Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Affiliate Links: Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Cardpointers Tobiq 15% Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way! Keywords Hyatt Regency Tamaya, New Mexico travel, World of Hyatt points, Hyatt points redemption, Native American culture travel, Santa Ana Pueblo, luxury resorts USA, family travel ideas, points and miles travel, unique US resorts, hot air balloon New Mexico, horseback riding resort, travel tips

    1h 5m

  4. APR 22

    208. Midweek Mini: Are Airport Lounges Worth It? How to Get Access & Save Money Traveling

    Airport lounge access can completely change your travel day—but not all lounges (or credit cards) are created equal. In this episode, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about getting into airport lounges, comparing lounge types, and choosing the right cards to unlock the best perks. We walk through the differences between lounges like Priority Pass, CapitalOne, Chase Sapphire Lounge and more; and which ones are actually worth your time. We also cover the best credit cards for lounge access, how families can take advantage of these benefits, and what to do when lounges are full or have long waitlists. From saving money on airport food to finding a quiet place to relax before your flight, we’re sharing practical tips to help you get the most value from lounge access—whether you travel occasionally or all the time. Mentioned in this Episode: Comfrt.com 15% OFF Our Favorite Credit Cards Find Us On Online: Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel Newsletter Wonderland on Points Youtube Channel Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Affiliate Links: Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Cardpointers Tobiq 15% Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    20 min

  5. APR 20

    207. Is Flying Southwest Still Worth It? Breaking Down the Changes for Families with Jason Steele

    Big changes keep happening at Southwest Airlines, and if you care about maximizing travel rewards, this episode is a must-listen. We’re joined by points expert Jason Steele to break down new fare structures, what they mean for award travel, and how these updates impact families trying to travel more for less. We also cover how to earn and use Southwest Rapid Rewards points more effectively, how to get the most value from the Companion Pass, and practical tips for navigating boarding, seat selection, and flying with kids. Plus, don’t miss a few lesser-known strategies that can help you save on baggage and get more out of Southwest’s unique policies. Mentioned in this Episode: Travel for Free book Episode 47: Southwest Companion Pass Episode 148: Companion Pass Episode Mini Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Find Us On Online: Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel Newsletter Wonderland on Points Youtube Channel Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Affiliate Links: Cardpointers Comfrt.com 15% OFF Halara (use code "Wonderland" for 10% off) Tobiq 15% Our Favorite Credit Cards Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    49 min

  6. APR 15

    206. Midweek Mini: What Does That Even Mean? Decoding Points & Miles (Acronyms + Fees)

    ***Sorry for the audio- we had an unplugged microphone** Feeling lost in all the points and miles jargon? In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we break down common credit card and travel rewards acronyms so you can finally understand what everyone is talking about—and start using those terms to your advantage. We also dive into how to evaluate annual fees, including when they’re worth it and when they’re not, plus practical strategies for maximizing credit card benefits across major programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, and Capital One Miles. If you’re new to points and miles—or just want to make smarter decisions with your cards—this episode is your go-to guide for turning confusion into confidence and getting more value from your travel rewards. Find Us On Online: Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel Newsletter Wonderland on Points Youtube Channel Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Wonderland On Points Blog Affiliate Links: Cardpointers Comfrt.com 15% OFF Halara (use code "Wonderland" for 10% off) Tobiq 15% Our Favorite Credit Cards Comfrt.com 15% OFF Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    19 min

  7. APR 13

    205. They Took Their Kids Around the World for 6 Months and Covered $38,000 of Travel with Points!

    What does it really take to travel the world as a family for six months? In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we break down how one Wisconsin family used points and miles to plan and fund an unforgettable multi-country adventure—without paying out of pocket for every flight and hotel. From smart credit card strategies to booking international award travel and building a flexible long-term itinerary, Kate joins us with practical tips for family travel, travel hacking, and planning an around-the-world trip. We also explore the lasting impact of extended travel on kids, education, and global perspective, making this a must-listen for anyone dreaming of using travel rewards to create a life-changing family experience. Mentioned in this Episode: Comfrt.com 15% OFF ChasingMemories.co Kate's Group Trips Instagram Find Us On Online: Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel Newsletter Wonderland on Points Youtube Channel Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Wonderland On Points Blog Affiliate Links: Cardpointers Comfrt.com 15% OFF Halara (use code "Wonderland" for 10% off) Tobiq 15% Our Favorite Credit Cards Comfrt.com 15% OFF Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    1 hr

  8. APR 8

    204. Midweek Mini: Hilton Updates, Credit Card Changes & Giveaway Winners You Don’t Want to Miss

    Stay up to date with the latest in travel rewards, credit cards, and hotel loyalty programs in this episode of Wonderland on Points. We break down recent updates from Hilton Honors, including new status tiers like Diamond Reserve and what they mean for travelers looking to maximize hotel benefits. We also cover current credit card offers, changes to the American Express Platinum Card (including Saks credits), and smart strategies to keep earning and redeeming points efficiently. Plus, we celebrate giveaway winners and share community updates, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in points and miles, travel hacking, and maximizing rewards in an ever-changing landscape. Find Us On Online: Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel Newsletter Wonderland on Points Youtube Channel Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Wonderland On Points Blog Affiliate Links: Cardpointers Comfrt.com 15% OFF Halara (use code "Wonderland" for 10% off) Tobiq 15% Our Favorite Credit Cards Comfrt.com 15% OFF Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    19 min
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4.8
out of 5
265 Ratings

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A show where two adventurous moms share everything they have learned about traveling on credit card points and how to explore the world on a budget.

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