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Before we dive in, a quick note: some of the cards mentioned in this post are ones I earn a commission on if you apply and are approved. It does not cost you anything extra, and it helps me keep creating free content like this. If you are ready to apply or just want to […]

April 11, 2026

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“Looking for some advice here. I’ve been hemming and hawing for a few weeks trying to decide which card to get next as we have plans to spend close to $10,000 in the next month or so.” This is one of the most common situations I see in the points and miles world. A big […]

April 11, 2026

chase sapphire preferred travel protection

Many people assume the only way to book a Delta flight with points is through Delta’s own loyalty program. But one of the most useful strategies in the points and miles world is booking flights through partner airline programs. Delta partners with several airlines, and one of the most valuable partners for certain routes is […]

March 12, 2026

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Many credit cards now offer perks that go beyond travel rewards. Some include benefits designed for everyday spending, including grocery delivery services like Instacart. Depending on the card, these perks may include: For households that regularly use grocery delivery, these benefits can reduce delivery fees and add value to purchases you are already making. If […]

March 12, 2026

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Living outside Kansas City means I do most of my grocery shopping the old-fashioned way: lots of planning and big trips to the store every other week. But I’ve figured out a trick to stretch my grocery dollars even further using Instacart credits that come with certain Chase credit cards — especially on the weeks […]

February 16, 2026

chase sapphire preferred travel protection

When I book flights with points, I almost always still owe a small amount in taxes and fees. And on the rare occasion I pay cash for a flight, I’m intentional about which card I use to pay for it. I put those charges on my Chase Sapphire Preferred — not because of the points, […]

February 9, 2026

Universal Studios trips for families

Where you stay near Universal can completely change your trip — especially when you’re traveling with tweens and teens. Hotel choice affects:• how early you can get into the parks• how much walking you do• whether you need Express Pass• how exhausted everyone feels at the end of the day For families with older kids […]

January 28, 2026

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When we travel as a family, rideshare is unavoidable at times. Yes, we do rental cars, but for quick in-and-out trips, it’s typically rideshare for us. Airport transfers, hotel rides, theme parks, dinners — those costs add up quickly. Since we’re already paying for rides, we want them to work for us rather than feel […]

January 26, 2026

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There’s a lot of noise online about the “best” card or the “perfect” setup. But real families don’t live in perfect spreadsheets. We’re paying mortgages.Helping kids with college housing.Buying groceries.Trying to plan one meaningful trip a year — not fly every weekend. So instead of chasing one magical card, many families do better with a […]

January 17, 2026

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Quick note before we start:I don’t have this card linked directly in this post. If you’d like my affiliate link (which supports my work at no extra cost to you), feel free to DM me on Instagram, and I’ll send it your way. I only share links when someone asks, and only if it truly […]

January 15, 2026