How to Make Every Trip More Meaningful — Without Spending More
Wed Oct 29 2025
Powering Travel host Elisabeth Goodridge joined NerdWallet's Smart Travel podcast to discuss how you can make travel more meaningful without overspending or missing out on authentic experiences. Check out the highlights of the episode:
How do you plan a vacation that feels “worth it” without overspending? What’s the smartest way to turn bank points into long-haul premium flights? Smart Travel hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how to design trips that maximize satisfaction and meaning without paying top dollar. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the United and JetBlue’s Blue Sky partnership, Delta adding Crunchyroll to seat-back entertainment alongside free Wi-Fi, and what Travis Kelce’s investment in Six Flags could mean for affordable parks.
Then, Expedia’s “Powering Travel” podcast host Elisabeth Goodridge joins Meghan to talk about how to build memorable trips. She discusses using reviews and trusted communities to find authentic experiences, considering “destination dupes” to avoid overtourism, and budgeting with hidden fees in mind. Meghan and Sally wrap up the episode by answering a listener’s question about using Capital One points on Star Alliance airlines.
Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, NerdWallet's free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel.
To listen to more Powerting Travel episodes, visit our website and browse all 5 seasons!
More
Powering Travel host Elisabeth Goodridge joined NerdWallet's Smart Travel podcast to discuss how you can make travel more meaningful without overspending or missing out on authentic experiences. Check out the highlights of the episode: How do you plan a vacation that feels “worth it” without overspending? What’s the smartest way to turn bank points into long-haul premium flights? Smart Travel hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle discuss how to design trips that maximize satisfaction and meaning without paying top dollar. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the United and JetBlue’s Blue Sky partnership, Delta adding Crunchyroll to seat-back entertainment alongside free Wi-Fi, and what Travis Kelce’s investment in Six Flags could mean for affordable parks. Then, Expedia’s “Powering Travel” podcast host Elisabeth Goodridge joins Meghan to talk about how to build memorable trips. She discusses using reviews and trusted communities to find authentic experiences, considering “destination dupes” to avoid overtourism, and budgeting with hidden fees in mind. Meghan and Sally wrap up the episode by answering a listener’s question about using Capital One points on Star Alliance airlines. Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, NerdWallet's free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel. To listen to more Powerting Travel episodes, visit our website and browse all 5 seasons!