Traveling with your partner to dream destinations might seem like a luxury reserved for social media influencers or the ultra-wealthy. But according to Julia Menez, founder of GeoBreeze Travel, couples can leverage credit card points and travel rewards to plan incredible vacations without breaking the bank.
I interviewed travel expert Julia Menez for this post, and break down Julia’s top strategies for couples looking to maximize their travel points and create unforgettable memories together.
Understand Points and Miles Travel 101
At its core, points and miles travel relies on loyalty programs offered by airlines, hotels, and credit card companies. When you fly, stay in specific hotels, or spend on co-branded credit cards, you earn points that can later be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or other perks.
A key takeaway? Points have far more value when used for flights and hotels rather than cash back or Amazon purchases. For example, 100,000 points might be worth $1,000 in cashback but could secure a business-class flight to Europe worth $5,000.
Think Strategically, Not Spontaneously
Julia warns against what she calls “shiny card syndrome” — applying for random credit cards because they seem popular or influencers promote them. Instead:
Set Clear Travel Goals: Decide where you want to go and research which airline or hotel points will get you there.
Work Backwards: Identify the required points and select credit cards accordingly.
Meet Sign-Up Bonuses: Strategically spend on your new card to earn its lucrative sign-up bonus without overspending.
Use “Two-Player Mode” for Double the Points
Couples have a unique advantage when it comes to earning points. Julia highlights “two-player mode”, where partners refer each other to credit cards. This way, you’re not only earning sign-up bonuses but also referral bonuses. For example:
Partner A applies for a travel rewards card and meets the sign-up bonus.
Partner A refers Partner B to the same card, earning a referral bonus.
Partner B meets the sign-up bonus on their card.
This method can quickly double your points-earning potential without extra spending.
Plan Realistically for Your Lifestyle
While Instagram influencers might make “points travel” seem like an endless vacation, Julia emphasizes the importance of balancing convenience and value.
If you’re traveling with kids, prioritize direct flights and convenient schedules.
Don’t try to replicate complex itineraries that influencers share—it’s about creating a trip that works for your family.
Remember: Even three or four well-planned trips a year can deliver incredible value.
Don’t Hoard Points—Spend Them Wisely
One of Julia’s most important tips? Points are meant to be spent, not hoarded. Unlike savings accounts or investments, points lose value over time due to devaluation and inflation.
For example, a flight that costs 80,000 points this year might cost 90,000 points next year. Holding onto points indefinitely means losing value.
Consider Flexible Points Programs
Julia recommends focusing on credit cards that earn flexible rewards points (e.g., Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, or Capital One Venture points). These points can be transferred to multiple airline and hotel partners, offering flexibility and protection against inflation.
Real-Life Success Stories
Julia shares stories of clients who have successfully leveraged points for dream vacations:
A client took an around-the-world trip with their grandson, spanning England, Greece, Dubai, and Japan—worth over $60,000 in cash value.
Another client booked business-class flights for six family members to Europe, saving over $100,000.
These stories illustrate the life-changing potential of smart points and miles strategies.
Practical First Steps for Couples
Identify your dream vacation destination.
Choose a travel rewards credit card based on your goals.
Use “two-player mode” to double your earning potential.
Meet sign-up bonuses without overspending.
Plan your trip and book strategically—don’t let points sit idle.
Planning a dream vacation using credit card points isn’t reserved for the elite—it’s an accessible strategy for couples who approach it with intention and strategy. As Julia says,
“The joy of points isn’t in seeing a giant balance—it’s in turning those points into memories.”
Modern Husbands Podcast Episode: Travel Points Hacks and Facts
Modern Husbands Podcast: Winning ideas from experts to manage money and the home as a team. 2023 Plutus Award Finalist: Best Couples or Family Content
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