Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast

In episode 28 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss how to maximize travel rewards by stacking shopping portals and card-linked offers. They explain the basics of shopping portals, including popular ones in Canada and the US, and how to use them effectively to earn multiple rewards. The episode also covers card-linked offers from major Canadian banks and the best practices for integrating these offers with shopping portals for optimal returns. They share personal success stories of quadruple-dipping rewards and highlight platforms like Capital One Shopping and Rove Miles that enhance this process.

In Episode 27 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss the most recent news in the world of miles and points, starting with Hilton's new Diamond Reserve tier and its impact on loyalty members. The team explores several opportunities to purchase points, plus Iberia Airlines' new route to Canada and the associated redemption opportunities. They also delve into the frequent transfer bonuses that RBC Avion offers for British Airways Avios. Other news includes Marriott's soft status landing for 2026, TD's new personalized offers, and the new Air Canada Cafe in Vancouver. The episode wraps...

In episode 26 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca dive into the world of premium credit cards and the value they offer. They discuss how to justify the high annual fees of premium credit cards and maximize their benefits. Among the topics covered are the defining factors of a premium credit card and the various premium card options available in Canada and the United States. The hosts also provide insights into overcoming the mental challenge of paying a high annual fee, cite examples of easily redeemable credits, and explain how they individually assess...

In Episode 25 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss recent news in the world of miles and points, in addition to answering listeners’ questions. The most recent news includes reduced airport lounge access on Amex Canada premium cards, new rebates on Frugal Flyer, ANA first class availability, and a new promotion from Marriott Bonvoy. The team also covers new Air Canada and Air Serbia routes, a new unique partnership, and more. They wrap up the episode by answering listener questions about TD credit card applications, roadside assistance, and more.

In Episode 24 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca break down when it makes sense to cancel a credit card, and when it doesn’t. They share insider tips on avoiding long hold times for customer service, obtaining retention offers, and protecting your points and credit score. Whether you’re trimming down your wallet or managing your credit strategically, this episode of Miles Ahead covers the best practices for closing (or not closing) your cards in Canada and the United States.

In Episode 23 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss recent news in the world of miles and points, in addition to answering listeners’ questions. The most recent news includes the refreshed Amex Platinum & Business Platinum Cards in the United States, notable upcoming changes to the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard, and another Hilton Honors devaluation. The team also covers a notable upcoming annual fee increase, the addition of Condor flights bookable with JetBlue miles, and more. They wrap up the episode by answering listener questions about flight award redemptions and award search to...

In Episode 22 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss the recently announced changes to the Air Canada Aeroplan program. From modifications in earning and redeeming Aeroplan points to the introduction of Status Qualifying Credits (SQCs), the hosts delve into how these updates will impact frequent flyers in the Aeroplan program. They also discuss the ability to work towards status via credit card spending and through partnerships with everyday brands like Starbucks and Avis. Finally, they review the changes to Aeroplan elite status benefits, including eUpgrades and Priority Rewards. Throughout this episode, the...

In Episode 21 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss recent news in the world of miles and points, in addition to answering listeners’ questions. The Frugal Flyer team shares details about their upcoming 'Miles and Pints' event in Calgary in September, upcoming changes to the Aeroplan program, and reviews the new WestJet Business Credit Card and National Bank World Elite MasterCard offers. This episode also covers the record-high offer on the American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card and the introduction of CLEAR+ for Canadians. They wrap up by answering listener questions about cl...

In Episode 20 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss whether chasing airline elite status is worth it. They discuss the general benefits of airline elite status, including early boarding, free checked bags, lounge access, priority services, and more. The team examines how many of these benefits can be replicated through credit card perks, highlighting various Canadian credit cards that offer similar privileges. They also look at benefits that cannot be replaced by credit cards, such as earning more points while flying and alliance-wide benefits. Furthermore, they explore shortcuts to achieving elite status...

In Episode 19 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss recent news in the world of miles and points, in addition to answering listeners’ questions. The miles and points news that is discussed includes Hyatt's new award calendar feature, a new Aspire Lounge at Montreal International Airport, and how to utilize Alaska Miles for Porter flights. The episode also covers how you can buy Porter Airlines status with AIR MILES, how Nova Credit is no more, and how Citibank recently added American Airlines as a transfer partner. The team also answers listener questions ab...

In Episode 18 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Reed from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss everything you need to know about navigating, getting approved for, and using business credit cards. The team explains and dispels the most notable myths surrounding business credit cards, while also providing tips and guidance on how to apply for a business credit card. They briefly touch on how business credit cards are different in the United States, in addition to some of their favorite US-based business credit cards. They also share their favorite business credit cards in Canada, based on current welcome bonuses...

In this episode of Miles Ahead Deep Dives, Daniel, Reed, and Josh delve into the intricacies of the Refundable Hotel Trick, a strategy used by Canadian travel enthusiasts to convert reward points into cash or statement credits. They explore the nuanced process of booking and refunding travel arrangements to redeem points, the potential risks, and the specifics of using this trick with various Canadian bank reward programs. The episode also covers redeeming annual travel credits via this method, as well as the pitfalls and considerations to keep in mind.

In Episode 16 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, Josh, Quentin, Kirin, and Reed from FrugalFlyer.ca talk about how the world of miles and points has changed in recent years. The team delves into the history of the Canadian miles and points game, comparing pre-pandemic, pandemic, and post-pandemic changes in the market. There is an in-depth discussion about the shift to dynamic pricing, changes in welcome bonuses, the rise and fall of specific loyalty programs, and strategies to maximize points. The team also shares their thoughts as to what the future of miles and points holds, and...

In this episode of Miles Ahead: Deep Dives, Danny, Josh, and Jeff from FrugalFlyer.ca explore the intricacies of Aeroplan Flight Award changes. They discuss the various fees associated with changing or canceling award tickets, including specific charges for economy and premium fares. The team also outlines scenarios where travelers can change their itineraries for free, such as in cases of major schedule disruptions. They delve into strategies for maximizing flexibility, including how to leverage the Aeroplan self-accommodation tool and the benefits of booking flexible fares or achieving Aeroplan Super Elite status when it comes to utilizing flight award changes.

In Episode 14 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, Josh, Quentin, Kirin, and Reed from FrugalFlyer.ca open their wallets (and sock drawers) to share the credit cards they use regularly and learn about the value they receive from these cards. The team shares details on what cards they carry in their wallets for daily use with a focus on maximizing rewards and benefits. They also provide insight into the cards they keep in their sock drawer purely for benefits like free hotel nights and airport lounge access. The episode concludes with a reader question where the team...

In this episode of Miles Ahead Deep Dives, Danny, Josh, and Jeff from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss everything there is to know about American Express Canada's Transfer Partners. They discuss what transfer partners are and highlight the most valuable frequent flyer and hotel loyalty program transfer partners for Canadians, such as Air Canada Aeroplan and British Airways Avios. The episode delves into American Express Membership Rewards transfer ratios and how to maximize value from transfer bonuses and high-value redemptions.

In Episode 12 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Josh, Jeff, and Andy from FrugalFlyer.ca cover all the details as to how to shortcut your way to Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status. The team reviews the various levels of Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status, focusing on the most valuable and meaningful levels of Platinum Elite status and Titanium Elite status. They share the benefits they receive from their status, how they earn it, and why it is worth the time for Marriott Bonvoy members to chase status to improve their hotel stays. The episode wraps up with questions from listeners...

In the inaugural episode of Miles Ahead Deep Dives, Josh, Reed, and Daniel from FrugalFlyer.ca delve into the details of the WestJet Companion Voucher, a benefit for members of the WestJet Rewards Loyalty Program. They explain what WestJet Companion vouchers are, how to earn them primarily through WestJet co-branded credit cards and elite status milestones, and the cost and restrictions associated with them. The episode also covers tips on maximizing the value of these vouchers, their best use cases, and alternative use opportunities for solo travelers.

In Episode 10 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Josh, Danny, Kirin, and Jeff discuss the steps to go from a miles and points beginner to a points hero. Starting with the basics, the team covers how to determine what kind of points are best to earn, in addition to how you can leverage product switching to earn even more miles and points. How to evaluate welcome bonuses plays a key part in becoming a points hero, and the team also discusses how they work backward when making their redemptions. Plus, they focus on a few credit cards that are...

In Episode 9 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Reed, Danny, Kirin, and Andy explore various strategies to access airport lounges, focusing on types like paid access, airline, bank, and first-class lounges. They discuss entry methods including credit cards, elite status, and pay-to-access options, including how Canadians can access airport lounges for free. The Frugal Flyer team reflects on their favorite redemptions, the best miles and points earning opportunities, and the biggest changes in miles and points in 2024. Looking ahead, the team makes predictions for what might be coming for miles and points in 2025. The episode wraps up with a...

In Episode 8 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Josh, Danny, and Quentin discuss navigating the world of miles and points while focusing on strategies for earning and redeeming points with a partner or as a household. The Frugal Flyer team covers several key topics about earning points with a plus one, including the power of adding another person to this hobby, strategies for working with a player two who might not be as comfortable with miles and points, and collecting points through optimal credit card referrals. They also discuss the intricacies of hotel loyalty programs and status benefits, as...

In Episode 7 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Reed, Josh, Danny, and Jeff discuss the unique world of US credit cards and everything Canadians need to know about how they can access and benefit from these cards. The Frugal Flyer team guides listeners through the process of obtaining an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN), a US address, and a US bank account to get started with US credit cards. They also discuss the benefits of US credit cards and how they can often be significantly more beneficial than those offered in Canada. The episode concludes with listener questions on...

In Episode 6 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Reed, Josh, Jeff, and Quentin dive deep into the world of hotel loyalty programs, featuring a detailed analysis of the big three programs including Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and World of Hyatt. Throughout the episode, the team explores strategies for maximizing points earnings in hotel loyalty programs, redemption opportunities, and the value that hotel program elite statuses can offer to travelers. The episode wraps up with a rapid-fire review of listener-submitted questions on Avios, Aeroplan, Alaska Miles, and US credit cards.

In Episode 5 of Miles Ahead: the Canadian Points Podcast, Reed, Josh, Danny, and Kirin dive deep into the Air Canada Aeroplan loyalty program and kick it off with a segment containing Aeroplan trivia. Throughout the episode, the discussion covers the basics of what Aeroplan is, how Canadians can earn Aeroplan points using various Canadian and U.S. credit cards, the best ways to redeem Aeroplan points, and the specifics of Aeroplan status tiers and associated benefits. The episode also features audience questions and personal anecdotes from the Frugal Flyer team about their experiences with Aeroplan redemptions and flights.

In Episode 4 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Reed, Josh, Daniel, and Jeff explore the Avios program in depth. The episode begins with a new segment, 'What's That Credit Card?', where the group guesses a featured credit card with aspects of the credit card hinted at by Reed. The team discusses the basics of the Avios program and how Canadians can best earn Avios points, with a focus on RBC and American Express credit cards. From there, the team explores the various frequent flyer programs within Avios: British Airways Executive Club, Qatar Airways Privilege Club, Aer Lingus AerClub...

In Episode 3 of the 'Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast,' hosts Reed, Josh, Jeff, and the new contributor Kirin Tsang discuss the intricacies of redeeming miles and points for travel. The focus is primarily on flights but also touches on hotel redemptions. The hosts share their standout points redemptions, emphasizing strategies for booking award flights, navigating dynamic pricing, and finding value in partner airline redemptions. They delve into the use of free night certificates and bank-affiliated points programs, advising on when to redeem these points and maximizing potential value. The episode aims to guide listeners on how to creatively...

In Episode 2 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Reed, Josh, Danny, and Quentin continue the conversation on the basics of earning miles and points. To kick it off, everyone shares their favorite credit card in their wallet and the reasons for their choice. The conversation covers earning strategies, including leveraging welcome bonuses, meeting minimum spend requirements, and maximizing category spending. The team also explores non-traditional methods of earning points, such as shopping through loyalty portals and credit card referrals, while providing tips on organizing credit cards and maintaining a good credit score. The team takes a look at the...

Welcome to the first episode of 'Miles Ahead,' a podcast about maximizing travel rewards through miles and points, presented by Frugal Flyer. Hosts Reed, Josh, and contributors Danny and Jeff introduce themselves, sharing their journeys and experiences with collecting and redeeming points. The episode outlines the podcast's format and includes part one of a three-part series on miles and points basics. The team discusses the benefits of various loyalty programs like Air Canada Aeroplan, Marriott Bonvoy, and PayPower. They share personal travel stories, upcoming trips, and recent industry changes affecting loyalty programs. Listeners are encouraged to submit questions and...

Welcome to Miles Ahead, the Canadian Points Podcast brought to you by Frugal Flyer. Join host Reed Sutton and co-founder Josh, along with their team, as they explore the world of miles and points. Learn how to utilize loyalty and rewards programs to travel the world affordably. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a beginner, this podcast will offer tips, tricks, and insider hacks to help…

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