How I booked $70,000 of travel with points in 2024

Can you believe how fast this year has gone by? I can hardly wrap my head around it. But as 2024 winds down, I can’t help but reflect on one of the most exciting things that happened for me this year—travel. For the first time ever, I traveled more than I ever thought possible, all thanks to points and miles.

Here’s a little behind-the-scenes look at how I made it happen and how you can do it too!

From Squirreling Away Cash to Booking $70,000 Worth of Travel

I used to stash away cash for my trips, which limited me to traveling just once or twice a year. That was okay, but I always felt like I was missing out on more adventures. Then, I discovered the world of points and miles, and everything changed.

In 2024, I booked over $70,000 worth of travel—yes, you read that right—using points and miles. And the best part? Some of those trips are for 2025, showing just how far in advance you can plan and still get incredible value out of your points.

Where Did My Points Take Me in 2024?

Let’s dive into some of the trips I took this year:

1. Boutique Luxury in Charleston, South Carolina

In February, I gifted my beloved Aunt Bev a trip to Charleston for her 75th birthday. We stayed at the beautiful Wentworth Mansion, a restored mansion with luxury touches, like nightly wine and cheese and a decadent breakfast at the onsite restaurant. We had an unforgettable time together… even though we got food poisoning at an oyster restaurant (not at the hotel). What a story!

2. Business Goals + Networking in California and Phoenix

Using points for flights and Hyatt points for hotels, I spent 10 nights in Orange County and Phoenix. These trips were all about networking and planning for the future with my entrepreneur friends. It’s amazing how points can help with both personal and business growth.

3. Spring Break with Austin in New Orleans

My youngest son, Austin, and I flew to New Orleans for a college tour and a much-needed bonding trip. From incredible meals to vintage shopping and a jazz concert, we soaked in everything this lively city had to offer. We stayed at the Eliza Jane, a Hyatt property just steps from the French Quarter.

We stayed at the beautiful Eliza Jane (a Hyatt property) on the edge of the French Quarter, walkable to everything.

The Eliza Jane in New Orleans

4. 20th Anniversary Blowout in Bali + Thailand

This was my biggest points trip of the year—and it was totally worth it. Jeff and I flew business and first class (luxury!) and stayed in 12 nights of luxury hotels, including an all-inclusive boutique resort in Bali. The spa treatments, breathtaking views, and cultural experiences made it a trip we’ll never forget.

Desa Hay luxury villa hotel in Bali - our first stop

5. A Family Fall Getaway to Vail

This was another incredible trip where we used points for flights and a beautiful condo stay at the Grand Hyatt Vail. It was the perfect mix of relaxation, hiking, and family time. We loved fewer crowds and the gorgeous fall foliage.

My family used points from ONE business card welcome offer (with a $0 annual fee) to for 3 nights in a condo at the gorgeous Grand Hyatt Vail. This pic is of winter.

6. A Family Wedding in Lafayette, Louisiana

We wrapped up the year by celebrating a family wedding in Lafayette, Louisiana. It was so much fun to see relatives, eat delicious seafood, and take a swamp tour in the Atchafalaya Basin.

Looking Ahead to 2025

While I’ve already had an amazing year of travel, 2025 is shaping up to be just as incredible. I have a big family trip planned, and I’m excited to share more adventures with you all.