Finding Cheap Flights, Mastering Layovers, and Knowing Your Card’s Benefits (Put to the Test!)

Learn how to handle a surprise layover and track down a cheap flight to a random destination.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss how to think fast when travel plans go sideways to help you handle curveballs with more confidence. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including new perks tied to Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts' 35th anniversary, American Airlines' plan to change complimentary upgrades on some transcontinental and Hawaii routes starting August 25, and new welcome bonuses on Marriott's Bonvoy Bevy and Brilliant credit cards.

Then, Meghan and Sally share tips and tricks on thinking fast while traveling by facing off in a series of in-studio games. They cover how quickly you can track down a cheap flight to a random destination, what to do when a layover doesn't go as planned, and how well you actually know which perks come with which credit card.

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Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

• American Express Platinum Review: Top-Notch Lounge Access, Big Credits

• Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Review: Ho-Hum for a High Price

• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Review: Luxurious Benefits, Price Tag to Match

• Atmos Rewards Summit Card: Perks as Rare as They Are Valuable

• Citi Strata Premier: Big Rewards Across Top Spending Categories

• Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards

• American Express Gold Card Review: Friendly for Foodies, Families

• U.S. Bank Altitude Go: 4X Back on Dining, No Annual Fee

• Bilt Palladium Card: Rewards on Housing Are Almost Secondary

• Verizon Visa Card Review: Turn Everyday Spending into Cell Savings

• Citi AAdvantage Executive Review: Your Key to the Club

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Marriott Bonvoy Bevy, Brilliant Cards Enhance Bonus Offers [Limited Time]

• American Airlines Upgrades: What You Need to Know

• How Much Are Travel Points and Miles Worth in 2026?

• Points Path Review: A Free Tool to Compare Points vs. Cash

• The Hidden Costs of "Cheap" Countries: What $300 a Day in Madagascar Really Buys You (Smart Travel Episode) 

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.  

*The show notes were created with the assistance of AI. They have been reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.

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