2025 Travel Goals & Credit Card Strategy

The Dream: Japan Family Trip (Post-Christmas 2025 – Likely Dec 26th – Jan 4th)

Current Points: 341,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards Points (Combined)

Current Cards:

• Eugene: Amex Gold, Amex Platinum, Venture X, Chase Sapphire Preferred, Chase Ink Unlimited
• Andrea: Bilt, Amex Gold, Venture X, Chase Sapphire Preferred, Chase Ink Unlimited, Amex Platinum

The Plan:

1. Chase Sapphire Reserve Upgrade:
   • Cost: $550 Annual Fee
   • Benefits: $300 Travel Credit, $100 TSA Credit, 50% Points Bonus on Chase Travel
   • Impact: 341,000 Points x 1.5 = 511,500 Points (Significant boost for travel)
2. Chase Ink Preferred for Andrea:
   • Sign-up Bonus: 100,000 Points after $6,000 spend
   • Impact:
     • 341,000 (existing) + 100,000 (bonus) = 441,000 Points
     • 441,000 Points x 1.5 (Reserve Benefit after combined with Eugene CSR) = 661,500 Points
3. Chase Ink Cash for Andrea:
   • Sign-up Bonus: 75,000 Points after $6,000 spend
   • Impact:
     • 441,000 (existing) + 75,000 (bonus) = 516,000
     • 516K points x 1.5 Boost = 774k UR Points
4. Chase Sapphire Preferred Downgrade:
   • Andrea’s Card: Downgrade to Chase Freedom Flex (no annual fee) after March annual fee posts.
5. Potential Future Card:
   • Eugene: Consider another Chase Ink Unlimited for business expenses around October

Estimated Travel Budget:

• Assuming 774k Chase Travel Points:
• The plan is to buy round trip tickets for 6 from Seattle to Tokyo with around $7,740 in travel value in the Chase Travel portal.

This strategy should provide a solid foundation for our Japan trip. Remember to book flights and accommodations through the Chase Travel Portal to maximize your points value(1.5 cents per point value)

Important Notes:

• Disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Credit card rewards programs and terms are subject to change. Always review the terms and conditions of your credit cards carefully.
• Health Spending Habits: Prioritize essential health expenses (insurance, medications) over travel rewards.
• Pay in Full & On Time: Always pay your credit card balances in full and on time each month to avoid interest charges and damage to your credit score.
• Avoid Overspending: Don’t overspend beyond your means to earn rewards. Responsible credit card use is key.
• Maximize Spending: Focus your spending on categories that earn the most rewards for your chosen cards (e.g., dining, travel, groceries).
• Consider Travel Insurance: Explore travel insurance options to protect against unforeseen events (e.g., medical emergencies, trip cancellations).
• Flexibility is Key: Be flexible with your travel dates and consider alternative airports or airlines for potential cost savings.
• Research and Compare: Research different travel options and compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best value.