Travels With Ivan

03/07/2018

http://www.travelswithivan.com/get-chase-sapphire-reserve-credit-card/

This may not be the best thing since sliced bread, but it is the best credit card in years. I'll show you how to make the best use of this.

21/04/2018

Learn how to maximize credit card points from your everyday purchases.

http://www.travelswithivan.com/maximize-credit-card-points-card-use/

Many of my readers have multiple credit cards, but they don't always know which is the best card to use for a particular purchase. Follow the below steps to maximize your point earnings.

11/10/2017

Many people ask me how I keep track of my points. In this post, I will share the three trusted systems I use to keep track of everything, from points and key dates, to wins/failures and lessons learned. Award Wallet Award Wallet is a secured website that keeps track of all your various loyalty accounts. From popular programs like Marriott, United, and Alaska Air, to more obscure programs like Etihad or EVA's Infinity Mileageland (yes, that is a real program and my favorite program name), Award Wallet keeps all your point balances in one place. [ 437 more words ]

http://www.travelswithivan.com/keep-track-points/

In this post, I will share the three trusted systems I use to keep track of everything, from points and key dates, to wins/failures and lessons learned.

13/08/2017

Interested in a discount on Global Entry Membership to skip lines at airports? Message me.

05/08/2017

Survival Strategies to Stay Safe While Traveling Abroad

http://www.travelswithivan.com/survival-strategies-stay-safe-traveling-abroad/

Check out this thorough infographic on traveling safely while abroad.

01/05/2017

Why I like the Chase 5/24 Rule and How You Can Benefit

http://www.travelswithivan.com/like-chase-524-rule/

I have become a fan of Chase' 5/24 Rule and it has actually improved my life and sanity. I'll explain why in this article and how you can also benefit.

27/03/2017

State of Travel Hacking 2017 Meetup (SF Bay Area)

http://www.travelswithivan.com/state-of-travel-hacking-2017-meetup/

We are hosting another local meetup on April 4 in Mountain View. We will be discussing how to adjust our strategy in response to recent changes in both the major hotel and airline programs (and their intersections).

26/02/2017

The Chase Ink Preferred and Chase Sapphire Reserve are two of the top credit cards in the market. Let's take a look at the benefits of both cards to help you determine which one is right for you and which one you should sign up for first.

The Chase Ink Preferred and Chase Sapphire Reserve are two of the top credit cards in the market, so which one should you get if you could only have one?

21/11/2016

You probably have a large list of things do buy in November and December. Reading this post will help you optimize your earnings with each purchase. 'Tis the season to give...especially when you can earn 5x or more!
http://www.travelswithivan.com/credit-cards-use-holidays/

You probably have a large list of things do buy in November and December. Reading this post will help you optimize your earnings with each purchase. ‘Tis the season to... Read more »

29/09/2016

Straight cash back (Citi Double Cash, Costco Everyday ) is becoming more lucrative in a loyalty point environment fraught with devaluations, but don't abandon point systems just yet. Miles & Points systems still have lucrative redemption sweet spots and there are creative ways to multiply the benefits of any one card by combining points. The Two Cards That Are Powerful in Their Own Right… [ 470 more words ]

http://www.travelswithivan.com/get-7-5-cash-back-minimum-using-combo/

These two cards will help you achieve 7.5% cash back from a wide range of purchases through the end of 2016.

25/08/2016

Why you should get the Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card. Over $2,000 worth of flights and hotels!

http://www.travelswithivan.com/get-chase-sapphire-reserve/

This may not be the best thing since sliced bread, but it is the best credit card offer in YEARS! I'll show you how to take advantage of this.

03/08/2016

I ate Rudolph, the Red-nosed Reindeer, and he was delicious!

From saunas and reindeer meat to ancient fortresses and nightclubs, Finland offers a wide array of experiences for the adventurous traveler ready for something completely different.

24/07/2016

Finland Trip Report: Flight from San Jose, CA to Helsinki, Finland. Surprise Service Dog at Gate K9. Flight and Lounge report for SJC-ORD-DUS-HEL

Flight Report: SJC-ORD-DUS-HEL on American Airlines 737-9, 767-3, and Finnair 737-8. Lounge Review @ ORD Admirals Lounge.

19/07/2016

Follow us on Instagram to get real-time updates on traveling in Finland

16/07/2016

How do you get the best flight to Europe? Play by play guide below.

How do you get the best award flight to Europe? Read this play by play how-to guide to regain your sanity.

11/07/2016

Finland Trip Report: Part 2 Searching for Award Availability

How do you search for award availability when using miles to fly to Europe? Learn more below!

This post will show you how to search for award availability as well as highlight a nuance of the travel hacking process.

08/07/2016

Let's go to Finland!

In this multipart trip report, I will share the trip planning workflow (that started a year ago), what flight/routes I explored, how I booked award tickets and a summary of the trip itself.

Using my experience and guidance, you can also plan a trip to Finland (or any European country) using miles and points!

Using my experience and guidance, you can also plan a trip to Finland (or any European country) using miles and points! In this multipart trip report, I will share the trip planning workflow (that started a year ago), what flight/routes I explored, how I booked award tickets and a summary of the tri...

04/07/2016

Singapore Airlines just introduced today, a way to upgrade on paid flights using a bid system. This is a great way to pay for economy class and potentially score a reasonable upgrade to premium economy. Read more below!

Singapore Airlines just introduced today, a way to upgrade on paid flights using a bid system. This is a great way to pay for economy class and potentially score a... Read more »

04/07/2016

Travel hacking isn't new, it is an evolution of coupon clipping that became popular in the 1980s. You still stay organized, research deals, and leverage program rules. Some of the dangers have persisted to today as well, but the stakes are higher. Here is how to avoid some of the most dangerous pitfalls.

Travel hacking isn’t new, it is an evolution of coupon clipping that became popular in the 1980s. You still stay organized, research deals, and leverage program rules. Some of the... Read more »

07/06/2016

Don't make this travel hacking mistake! Learn how to make travel planning decisions with clarity in this post.

Travel hacking is one of the few ways to get outsized value just by studying and practicing simple rules like staying organized and paying off your credit card in full,... Read more »

01/06/2016

The Best Travel Crib and the Case of the Missing Pack'n Play

If you’re looking for the best travel crib, look no further than Graco’s line of Pack’n Plays. I’ve helped setup these magical devices countless times, and they’ve made the travel... Read more »

25/05/2016

Want to know what credit card to sign up for when traveling to Europe? Read below!

In this week’s Reader Question, a friend recently asked about how to reduce her cost of vacationing in London next summer (2017). First, I applauded her for having a clear... Read more »

23/05/2016

This post will introduce you to the best travel pillow that will help you rest comfortably and step off the plane refreshed.

I’ve experienced sore necks and pinched nerves, even after a short flight, so about a year ago I chose to do something about it. This post will introduce you to... Read more »

20/05/2016

The Citi Costco Anywhere Visa Card is Here! This is a powerful card in my arsenal of travel tools.

Guys, I’m so excited! I got this card in the mail today, and I can’t wait to use it. The new Costco Citi co-branded credit card is significantly better than... Read more »

20/05/2016

TSA Packing Tips - Reuse Hotel and Airline Amenity Kits

Save money and time by making your custom travel amenity kit!

19/05/2016

Check Your Credit Card Statement After Each Stay to Avoid Fees! Learn how below:

  I recently stayed in a Hyatt hotel that offered Diamond members breakfast in the restaurant. Every Hyatt hotel is different – some will have buffets and at others you order off the men…

16/05/2016

How to choose the best seat on an airplane (Part 2)

In Part 1, I explained that to choose the best seat on an airplane, start with a strategy around your body type (and preferences) and the purpose of the trip. If you are tall, you may desire an exi…

14/05/2016

Free Reader Giveaway! $30 at Hyatt hotels, $500 Chase coupon, and more!

http://www.travelswithivan.com/2016/05/14/free-reader-giveaway-30-at-hyatt-hotels-500-chase-coupon-and-more/

I’m giving away a $30 Hyatt food and beverage credit, a $500 Chase new account bonus coupon, a $300 Chase business checking coupon, and a $10 Macy’s e-gift card! This is to say “T…

12/05/2016

How to choose the best seat on an airplane (Part 1)

http://www.travelswithivan.com/2016/05/12/how-to-choose-the-best-seat-on-an-airplane-part-1/

The right seat strategy can make your plane ride much more enjoyable. Being prepared and setting reasonable expectations will go a long way. Trust me. And once you select a good seat, you can focus…

05/05/2016

Top 5 fun things to do on an airplane

http://www.travelswithivan.com/2016/05/05/top-5-fun-things-to-do-on-an-airplane/

What if you could enjoy your time in the air more often? Many people tell me that they dislike flying – the small space, recycled air, potentially long time sitting in one place. I tell them …