When it comes to booking family vacations with points and miles, Hyatt has long been one of my favorite hotel brands. From spacious rooms and family-friendly amenities to some incredible redemption opportunities, World of Hyatt has helped make memorable family trips possible without paying those sometimes eye-watering hotel prices.

And while Hyatt has made some significant changes to its loyalty program in 2026, I still think it deserves a place in your family’s points and miles strategy.

The biggest changes: Hyatt has updated its award pricing, Chase has reduced the Hyatt transfer rate for certain credit cards, and families can now combine Hyatt points between accounts online for free. That last change is especially exciting if you and your spouse or other family members earn points separately!

The key is knowing how to make the most of your points under the new rules.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through why Hyatt remains one of my favorite hotel loyalty programs for families, how to earn and combine points, and what you need to know before booking your next stay.

World of Hyatt Program: A Game-Changer for Rewards Travel

World of Hyatt is one of my favorite hotel loyalty programs because it offers opportunities to get incredible value from points, whether you’re booking a quick family weekend getaway or a bucket-list vacation.

Unlike hotel programs that use fully dynamic award pricing, Hyatt still publishes an award chart, making it easier to plan how many points you’ll need for a stay. And with options ranging from budget-friendly Hyatt Place hotels to luxury resorts and all-inclusive properties, there’s something for just about every type of family trip.

Low Points Redemptions: Stretch Your Travel Budget

One of the biggest reasons I love World of Hyatt is the opportunity to book incredible hotels for significantly fewer points than you might expect.

Hyatt uses an award chart with eight hotel categories, with standard room redemptions starting at just 3,000 points per night at Category 1 properties. That means you could potentially book a five-night family getaway for as little as 15,000 Hyatt points.

In May 2026, Hyatt updated its award chart to include five pricing levels: Lowest, Low, Moderate, Upper, and Top. Depending on the hotel and your travel dates, standard rooms now range from 3,000 to 75,000 points per night.

While some properties require more points than they used to, there are still opportunities to get excellent value, particularly at lower-category hotels.

Some of My Favorite Hyatt Brands for Families

• Hyatt Place: Spacious rooms, often with sofa beds, and complimentary breakfast at many locations.
• Hyatt House: Extended-stay properties with residential-style accommodations, often including kitchens and separate living areas.
• Hyatt Regency: Full-service hotels and resorts with amenities like pools, restaurants, and family-friendly activities.
• Hyatt Ziva: All-inclusive resorts where accommodations, meals, drinks, and many activities are included.

Homes & Hideaways by World of Hyatt

One of Hyatt’s most exciting options for families isn’t a traditional hotel at all.

Homes & Hideaways by World of Hyatt lets you earn and redeem points for professionally managed vacation rentals, including condos, villas, and private homes.

For families who want separate bedrooms, kitchens, and more space to spread out, this can be a fantastic alternative to booking multiple hotel rooms.

I’ve personally used Homes & Hideaways to book a stay at Wailea Ekahi in Maui, and I love that Hyatt gives families another way to use their points for accommodations that better fit their needs.

Unlike traditional Hyatt hotels, Homes & Hideaways properties don’t follow the Category 1–8 award chart. Points pricing varies by property and dates, so it’s important to compare the redemption cost with the cash price before booking.

My tip: Whether you’re booking a hotel room or a vacation rental, always compare the cash price with the points required. Sometimes paying cash and saving your points for a more expensive stay makes more sense.

Transfer Points Easily with Chase Ultimate Rewards®

• You can transfer points from Chase Ultimate Rewards® directly to Hyatt at a 1:1 ratio.
• Popular Chase cards like the Sapphire Preferred® and Sapphire Reserve® make it easy to earn Ultimate Rewards points, which can then be transferred to Hyatt for hotel stays, room upgrades, and more.

One of the easiest ways to earn World of Hyatt points is by transferring points from eligible Chase Ultimate Rewards credit cards. However, as of October 1, 2026, not all Chase cards offer the same transfer ratio.

Here’s how the Hyatt transfer ratios work:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Sapphire Reserve for Business℠: Transfer at a 1:1 ratio, meaning 10,000 Chase points become 10,000 Hyatt points.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® and Ink Business Preferred®: Transfer at a 4:3 ratio, meaning 10,000 Chase points become 7,500 Hyatt points.

While the reduced transfer rate makes Hyatt redemptions less valuable for some Chase cardholders, there are still opportunities to get excellent value, especially when hotel cash rates are high.

Always check award availability and compare the cash price before transferring Chase points to Hyatt. Transfers are generally final, so you want to make sure you’re getting good value before moving your points.

Combine Hyatt Points with Family and Friends

One of the most exciting World of Hyatt updates for families in 2026 is how much easier it is to combine points.

Previously, transferring Hyatt points between members required submitting a form and waiting for the transfer to be processed. Now, World of Hyatt members can transfer points to one another online for free.

This is especially helpful for couples and families who earn Hyatt points separately but want to combine their balances to book a vacation.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Free transfers: There’s no fee to move Hyatt points between eligible accounts.
• No household requirement: You can share points with family members or friends, even if you don’t live at the same address.
• Account requirements: Both accounts must have been open for at least 60 days.
• Transfer limits: Members can send and receive points up to six times each per calendar year, with monthly limits also applying.

For example, if you have 20,000 Hyatt points and your spouse has 15,000, you can combine them into one account to book a 35,000-point hotel stay.

Before transferring points, find the hotel you want and confirm award availability. Combining points can make booking easier, but it doesn’t guarantee that an award room will be available for your dates.

You can manage points transfers through your World of Hyatt account.

Hyatt Co-Branded Credit Cards

Another way to earn World of Hyatt points is through Hyatt’s two co-branded credit cards issued by Chase: the World of Hyatt Credit Card and the World of Hyatt Business Credit Card.

Both cards allow you to earn Hyatt points directly on eligible purchases and offer additional benefits that can make family travel more rewarding, including opportunities to earn bonus points and work toward elite status. The personal card also offers opportunities to earn free night awards.

If Hyatt is a hotel brand you frequently stay with, these cards may be worth considering. Check the links above for current welcome offers, benefits, and terms.

Hyatt’s Family-Friendly Accommodations: More Room to Relax

When you’re traveling as a family, having enough space to spread out can make a huge difference, especially after a long day of exploring.

One of the reasons I love Hyatt is the variety of accommodations available, from Hyatt Place hotels with sofa beds to Hyatt House properties with kitchens and separate living spaces. Depending on the property, you can also find larger suites and connecting rooms that make traveling with kids or extended family much easier.

Family Rooms and Connecting Rooms

Some Hyatt properties offer connecting rooms, family suites, and special rates when booking a second room for children. Availability, age requirements, and discounts vary by hotel, so it’s worth asking about your options before booking.

If you need connecting rooms or have a larger family, I recommend contacting the hotel directly to confirm the available room configurations and occupancy limits. Don’t assume that booking two rooms automatically guarantees they’ll connect!

Finding the Right Hyatt for Your Family

Beyond the room itself, I always recommend looking at the amenities that will make your stay more comfortable. Complimentary breakfast, a pool, a convenient location, and access to laundry facilities can make a big difference when traveling with kids.

And remember, the hotel that requires the fewest points isn’t necessarily the best value if it doesn’t comfortably accommodate your family.

The Benefits of Status with Hyatt

Another reason I love World of Hyatt is the opportunity to earn extra perks through its loyalty program. Even if you only stay at Hyatt hotels a few times a year, some of these benefits can make family travel more comfortable.

World of Hyatt is free to join and offers three elite status tiers: Discoverist, Explorist, and Globalist.

Member

Anyone can join World of Hyatt for free! Members can earn points on eligible stays, access member rates, and redeem points for hotel nights.

Discoverist

Earned after 10 qualifying nights in a calendar year or automatically with the World of Hyatt personal credit card.

Discoverist benefits include preferred rooms when available, bonus points on eligible stays, complimentary bottled water, and late checkout when available.

This is our current Hyatt status, and I appreciate that even entry-level elite status can add a few conveniences to a family trip.

Explorist

Earned after 30 qualifying nights in a calendar year.

Explorist members receive additional bonus points and access to room upgrades when available, including preferred rooms within the same category. While the benefits aren’t as extensive as Globalist, they can make frequent Hyatt stays more rewarding.

Globalist

Earned after 60 qualifying nights in a calendar year, Globalist is Hyatt’s highest published elite tier and offers some fantastic benefits for families.

These include complimentary breakfast for eligible guests, room upgrades that may include standard suites, waived resort fees on eligible stays, and late checkout at participating properties.

Globalist members can also share certain benefits with friends or family through Hyatt’s Guest of Honor program, allowing others to enjoy Globalist perks on eligible stays.

Of course, earning Globalist status isn’t realistic for every family, especially when you’re planning trips around school calendars and limited vacation time. And that’s okay! You can still get tremendous value from Hyatt points without chasing elite status.

Earning Hyatt Status Beyond Hotel Stays

Hyatt’s co-branded credit cards can help you earn elite status without relying entirely on hotel stays.

• World of Hyatt Credit Card: Includes automatic Discoverist status and opportunities to earn elite qualifying night credits through spending.
• World of Hyatt Business Credit Card: Offers Discoverist status and opportunities to earn elite qualifying night credits through eligible business spending.

Hyatt occasionally offers promotions that can help members earn additional qualifying nights or accelerate their path to elite status, so it’s worth keeping an eye on your World of Hyatt account.

My tip: Don’t feel like you need top-tier hotel status to enjoy the benefits of points and miles. For most families, finding a hotel that fits your needs and booking it at a great value is far more important than chasing elite perks.

Why Hyatt Is Still One of My Favorite Hotel Brands for Families

Hyatt continues to be one of my favorite ways to make family travel more rewarding. From spacious accommodations and vacation rentals to opportunities to book incredible hotels with points, World of Hyatt offers families plenty of ways to stretch their travel budgets without sacrificing comfort or memorable experiences.

And while the program has changed, knowing how to earn, combine, and redeem your points strategically can still open the door to some amazing family vacations. You don’t need to be a points and miles expert to start making this work for your family.

✨ Want help figuring out how to turn your everyday spending into your next family vacation?

My Family Travel Rewards Coach takes the guesswork out of points and miles with personalized guidance based on your travel goals, credit cards, and family travel needs. Whether you’re just getting started or trying to make the most of points you’ve already earned, it’s designed to help you build a strategy that actually works for you.

Ready to make your next family vacation happen? Explore Family Travel Rewards Coach app.

And if you have questions, you can always connect with me on Instagram. I love helping families discover just how much more travel is possible with points and miles!

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

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  Family | Featured | North America | Rewards Travel | Southwest | United States

  Southwest Companion Pass Guide (2027): New Rules & Strategies

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  The Southwest Companion Pass has long been one of my favorite ways to save money on family travel. With this popular benefit, you can bring a designated companion on your Southwest flights for just the taxes and fees, starting at $5.60 each way on domestic flights. For families, that can add up to some serious savings!

  BIG UPDATE FOR 2027: Southwest just announced major changes to how travelers earn the Companion Pass, including eliminating credit card welcome offers as a way to qualify under the new rules. But there’s still a limited opportunity to use the current strategy before the changes take effect!

  Fun fact: we used our Southwest Companion passes to get us to and from Hawaii, along with plenty of other destinations. In this updated guide, I’ll walk you through what’s changing, how to earn the pass under the current and new rules, and whether it’s still worth pursuing for your family.

The post Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel appeared first on Mari on the Map.

Let me set the scene for you. Eleven people. One trip to Europe. And for seven of them, it was their very first time ever using points and miles to travel.

When my family decided to do a big multigenerational trip to Europe, the task was clear: if we couldn’t make this affordable using points and miles, some of us weren’t going to be able to go. My family has been on points and miles family travel for years, but my parents and my sister’s family of five were starting from scratch. Here I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes of how we pulled it off, what we got right, and what I would tell any family that wants to take a first or big trip on points and miles.

Points and miles are possible to learn, even for total beginners, with the right strategy. You do not need to be a frequent flyer or have a huge income to make it work. If your family also wants to travel to Europe on points and miles, I’m here to help. My new Family Travel Rewards Coach app offers personalized plans in less than 15 minutes a day to help you achieve your travel goals. Learn more here, and read on for our own (realistic) success story.

Start by Taking Inventory of What Everyone Already Has

The very first thing I did was ask a lot of questions. Before you can build a points and miles strategy for a group, you have to know what you are working with. For every family traveling, I asked the same things:

• What credit cards do you already have?
• Do you have any points sitting on them right now?
• What is your credit score?
• When did you last open a new card?
• Roughly how much do you spend on a credit card?
• Does anyone own a business or have a side hustle?

That last question matters more than people think, because business cards can seriously accelerate your points earning, and you do not need a big company to qualify. A side hustle, a rental, or freelance work can count. Learn more about qualifying for business cards here.

The answers led us to our starting point. My sister’s family had a small stash, under 50,000 points in total, on one Capital One Venture card and an American Express business card. My parents, on the other hand, were sitting on close to 300,000 points on a Bank of America travel card that they didn’t really know how to use. Taking inventory is what let me build a different plan for each household instead of a one-size-fits-all guess.

Build a Card Strategy for Each Family

Here is the key mindset shift for points and miles for beginners: there is no one size fits all strategy. While there are some cards that are generally valuable for most people, a good strategy is personalized. Someone with excellent credit who has not opened a card in three years is in a great spot for a big welcome bonus. Someone who just opened two cards last month probably needs to wait. And, of course, you want to consider if you’re just building a flexible points stash, or if you’re working towards a trip goal.

Since we knew where we were going and we had only about six months to earn the points we needed for our flights, we had to choose an airline that would offer lower points redemptions. That led us to Virgin Atlantic, which offers saver fares in economy starting at 6,000 points per ticket one way from the East Coast, and 29,000 in business class.

Every major bank transfers to Virgin Atlantic, and they offer family/household points pooling, making it the best choice for us. Keep in mind that Virgin Atlantic does have higher taxes and fees on award flights, so you may want to consider another airline for your own Europe on points and miles trip. However, this was by far the best option for us with little time to earn.

My parents wanted to fly business class, and needed to earn a large welcome offer quickly. So I started them with an American Express Platinum. I would normally never recommend this as a starter card to someone new to this hobby because American Express hierarchy rules make it more strategic to start with the American Express Green, then move to the Gold, then move to the Platinum. However, my parents aren’t planning on staying in this hobby, so the focus was just getting them the most points in the shortest time.

My sister started with one of my favorite beginner cards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred, because her family spends a lot on online groceries from Instacart and takeout. Her family also plans to be in this hobby for longer, so I wanted to ensure she had a keeper card.

A few ground rules I always recommend:

• Only put normal spending on the card. Never buy things you would not otherwise buy just to hit a bonus.
• Pay it off in full every month. If you carry a balance, the interest wipes out the value of the points. This only works if you treat the card like a debit card.
• Be patient. The welcome bonus is where the real value is, so do not rush to the next card before you have earned the one in front of you.

How We Booked the Flights to Europe on Points and Miles

Our trip included a land tour in southern Italy, since my dad wanted to see where his family came from. Next, we left Italy for a Mediterranean cruise.

Check every airport near you, not just your home one

We are in the Philadelphia area, but I did not limit myself to PHL. I looked at flights out of Philadelphia, Newark, JFK, DC, and Baltimore, because award availability and pricing can be wildly different from one airport to the next. A short drive or a cheap positioning flight to a different airport can save you a mountain of miles. To map out which airlines even fly the route, I used a free tool called FlightConnections.

Compare the options before you transfer anything

When I priced out economy round trip per person, the difference between programs was huge:

• American: around 87,500 miles, Philadelphia to Naples
• United: around 77,000 miles, Newark to Naples
• Virgin Atlantic: around 24,000 miles, JFK to London, then onward to Naples

Read that last one again. Virgin Atlantic was a fraction of the others. That is the whole game right there. Same ocean, same destination, wildly different price depending on which airline’s miles you use and how you route it. This is why I never just book with the first airline that comes to mind.

We put it to a vote in our group, and Virgin Atlantic won by a landslide. The other reason it was such a smart pick: American Express, Chase, Capital One, Citi, and Bilt all transfer to Virgin Atlantic. That meant almost everyone in our group could get there from whatever flexible points they were earning, instead of being locked into one airline’s currency.

Use free tools to check award availability

Award seats are limited, especially when you need a lot of them at once. Since our flights were almost a year out and not even released yet, I used June of the previous year as a stand-in to get a feel for how many points we would likely need and how available the seats tend to be.

There are paid tools for this, but there are good free ones too, so you do not have to spend money to start searching. Always confirm what you see directly on the airline’s website before you transfer any points, because once you transfer, you usually cannot transfer back. For this trip, I used point.me/amex, which is always free for American Express cardholders, and seats.aero, which has free and paid versions. If you want to use the Pro version of seats.aero, but don’t want to pay for a whole year, just sign up for a month when you’re looking and cancel.

Book one way for flexibility

We always book our flights one way rather than round trip. It gives us maximum flexibility, and it buys some of our family members more time to keep earning points for their return leg. Award pricing is usually the same whether you book one way or round trip, so you rarely lose anything by splitting it up, and you gain a lot of options.

Get Creative: Transfer Partners and Repositioning

Transfer partners are your superpower. Flexible points from banks like Amex, Chase, Capital One, Citi, and Bilt can move to many different airlines. That means you are not stuck. If one airline wants a fortune in miles, you check that bank’s other partners and find the one that prices the same flight far cheaper. That is exactly how we landed on Virgin Atlantic.

I offer free transfer guides for my e-newsletter subscribers. Sign up here, then drop me a line for links.

Repositioning opens up cheaper awards. Sometimes the best deal is not from your home airport at all. Flying yourself to a different city first, called a positioning flight, can unlock much better award space. It sounds advanced, but it is really just being willing to look one step beyond the obvious route.

Booking Our Lodging

Hotels and lodging are another area where you can easily use points and miles. Hyatt in particular is a sweet spot for families and offers locations across Europe, in addition to other well-known chains like Marriott and Hilton. Choice Hotels also has a sizable footprint in Europe.

However, we were doing some unconventional lodging since we were going to be in a very rural area in Italy, and then we immediately got onto a cruise. For Italy, we stayed at Country House Nonna Pina, an agriturismo run by a family that also offers meals with local ingredients made by the owner. We really enjoyed our stay here, and we were able to “erase” the cost using Capital One Miles.

Booking the Cruise

After the land tour, we boarded a ship for a Mediterranean cruise from Italy to Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece, which was another place that the ability to “erase” travel purchases was essential. Certain cards, like the Capital One Venture, let you redeem points for a statement credit, as well as the Bank of America Travel Rewards card my parents already had, and some Air Canada Aeroplan cards.

For a cruise, the best strategy is to only pay the minimum deposit at booking, continue earning points before the final deposit is due, and erase a large portion of it after the final payment hits your statement.

Final Thoughts

Coordinating points and miles travel for eleven people across three households was, I’ll be honest, a lot. But experiencing this trip together as a family made it all worth it. Rewards travel really is for anyone who is willing to learn.

As always, if you have questions or want help figuring out where to start, send me a message on Instagram. I’m also a certified travel advisor, planner, and strategist, and I’d love to take trip planning and booking off of your plate. Fill out my trip planning form and tell me a little about the trip you have in mind, and I’ll be in touch about next steps. Happy travels!

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

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  Abroad | Advice | Capital One | Chase | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Italy | Rewards Travel

  How We Booked Europe on Points and Miles for a Family of 11

  ByMari October 19, 2026October 19, 2026

  How we booked Europe on points and miles for a family of 11: our card strategy, Virgin Atlantic award flights, and how we erased our lodging and cruise.

The post How We Booked Europe on Points and Miles for a Family of 11 appeared first on Mari on the Map.

Christmas in London is a great option for a family trip over the holidays. The season runs about seven weeks, so you’re not forced into the expensive dates, and a lot of the best parts cost nothing. Ice rinks in courtyards, markets along the river, and lights on every main shopping street.

There’s one thing you need to know before you book, and it’s the part most guides leave out. London closes on Christmas Day. Not partially. The Underground does not run, the buses do not run, most attractions are shut, and so are most restaurants. If Christmas Day is in the middle of your trip, you need to plan for it.

Christmas in Europe has been on my travel list for a while, and London keeps coming up every time I look into a holiday trip. I’ve spent a lot of time researching what the city is like at Christmas, so I pulled together this guide with this year’s dates and prices, plus what needs booking ahead.

When to Go and What Is Open

Most of the big events for Christmas in London run from early or mid November to early January, so you have a long window.

Here are the 2026 season dates.

• Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park runs November 19, 2026 to January 3, 2027.
• Christmas at Kew runs November 13, 2026 to January 3, 2027.
• The ice rink at Somerset House opens November 11, 2026 and runs to January 10, 2027.
• The lights on the main shopping streets go up in early November and stay into January.

That means you don’t have to travel the week before Christmas to get the full experience of Christmas in London. Late November and early December give you the same lights and the same markets with smaller crowds and cheaper flights and hotels. If your kids aren’t in school yet, or you can pull them out for a few days, this is the better trip.

The last two weekends before Christmas are the busiest of the year. Everything is bookable and everything sells out.

What Christmas Day Actually Looks Like in London

This is the one part of Christmas in London that catches people out, so plan around it.

On December 25 there is no Underground, no bus service and no trains. Not a reduced schedule. Nothing. It’s been this way for decades, but check the TfL website before you travel in case anything changes. Most museums, shops and attractions are closed, and so are most restaurants. Winter Wonderland is closed. The ice rinks are closed.

What’s open is your hotel, taxis and rideshares at high prices, and your feet. A lot of hotels do a Christmas lunch, and they book up months ahead, so if you want one you need to reserve it when you book the room.

The upside is that London on Christmas morning is empty in a way it never is otherwise. You can walk down the middle of streets that are normally impossible. Families who plan for it end up liking that day. Families who assumed they’d go to a museum do not.

Boxing Day on December 26 is the opposite. The sales start, the shops are packed, transport runs a limited service and most attractions reopen. If you only have one day for shopping, this isn’t it.

The simplest fix is to book a hotel within walking distance of somewhere you want to be on Christmas Day, and to accept that day as a slow one.

The Christmas Lights

The lights are the best part of Christmas in London, and they’re completely free.

Oxford Street and Regent Street switch on in early November and run into January. Regent Street does the large angel installations that arch over the road, and they’re the ones people photograph. Carnaby Street does something different every year and it’s usually the most fun of the three.

Covent Garden puts up an enormous tree and hangs giant baubles through the market building. Seven Dials, just north of Covent Garden, is worth the five-minute walk.

The tree in Trafalgar Square has been a gift from Norway every year since 1947, as thanks for British support during the Second World War. It goes up in early December. It’s a simple tree compared to the ones in the shopping streets, and the story behind it is the reason to go and see it.

The department store windows are the other free thing worth doing. Fortnum and Mason, Liberty and Selfridges all do proper displays, and they’re within walking distance of each other.

Go after dark, which in December means from about four in the afternoon.

London Christmas Markets

London Christmas markets have their own character. They’re smaller than the ones in Germany, France and Austria, and they’re spread through the city rather than filling one big square, which means you come across them while you’re doing other things. That suits a family trip. You get an hour of lights and hot chocolate on your way somewhere else instead of building a whole day around it.

Most of them open in early to mid November and run until just after Christmas or into the first week of January. Nearly all of them close on Christmas Day. They’re free to walk through, so you can see several in an evening and only spend money if you want to.

Winter Wonderland Market

The largest Christmas market in London is inside Winter Wonderland, along with the rides, the ice rink and everything else. It’s the only one on this list you pay to enter, and it’s big enough that it gets its own section further down.

Southbank Centre Winter Market

The Southbank Centre Winter Market runs along the Queen’s Walk beside the Thames, between the London Eye and Waterloo Bridge, and it’s a line of alpine chalets with lights above them and the river on one side. The walkway is flat and wide the whole way, so there’s room for kids to move and no crowding into a narrow lane.

It leans more toward food than gifts, which is a plus with children. Expect hot chocolate, toasted marshmallows, cheese toasties and mulled wine for the adults. Go after dark so you get the lights reflecting on the water.

Winter by the River

This one is at London Bridge City, on the south side of the river between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, near HMS Belfast. The setting is the reason to go. You’re looking straight across at Tower Bridge and the Tower of London with everything lit up.

It’s smaller and calmer than Southbank, with wooden cabins selling gifts and food from local makers. If you’re already doing the Tower of London that day, this is the natural place to end up in the evening.

Christmas in Leicester Square

Leicester Square gets a market with stalls, food and live performances, and there’s usually a rides area alongside it. It’s in the middle of the West End, so it works well before or after a show, and it’s a short walk from Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden.

This is the busiest and loudest of them. With younger kids, go earlier in the day rather than in the evening.

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is less a market than the whole area dressed for Christmas. There are stalls through the market building, an enormous tree in the piazza, and giant baubles hanging from the roof. The street performers keep going all through December.

It’s free, it’s covered, and it’s a great place to be when it starts raining.

Trafalgar Square

The market here is small, but it sits next to the Norwegian tree and there are carol singers most evenings in December. It costs nothing, the National Gallery is right there and free if you need to warm up, and it works as a stop rather than a destination.

Spitalfields and Borough Market

Both are permanent markets that decorate for Christmas rather than pop-up Christmas markets. Borough is the better one with kids because it’s all food and everything is sampleable. Spitalfields is more about gifts from independent makers.

If Christmas markets are the whole reason for your trip, Germany and Austria go deeper, and I’ve written about the best Christmas markets in Europe. But London gives you markets plus everything else the city does in December, which is a good trade with kids.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland is the biggest single event of Christmas in London and the one your kids will ask about. It fills a large section of Hyde Park with a fairground, a Christmas market, an ice rink and more than 100 rides and attractions. It runs on the dates listed above and is closed on Christmas Day.

You need a timed entry ticket booked in advance, and entry is staggered by the hour. Here’s the useful part: Off-Peak time slots cost one pound, and in November most of them fall Monday to Thursday. Look for the green slots when you book. It’s by far the cheapest way in, and weekday afternoons in November are also the quietest it gets all season.

Entry doesn’t include the rides. You pay for those separately or buy one of the ride passes, and with kids the costs add up quickly. Work out your budget before you walk in, because everything inside is designed to be tempting.

The last two weekends before Christmas are the busiest of the whole run. If those are your only dates, book the earliest entry slot you can get.

Christmas at Kew

Christmas at Kew is a light trail through Kew Gardens after dark. The 2026 dates are listed above.

Tickets start at £29.50 for adults and £20 for children, while children under four go free. Entry slots start at 4:20pm, and the gardens close at 10pm, except on Christmas Eve, when they close at 9pm. Advance booking is essential.

It’s an outdoor walking trail in December, so dress everyone properly. And, as always when visiting London, remember to bring umbrellas and waterproof clothing.

Kew is in southwest London, close to Richmond, so it pairs well if you’re already heading that way. I have a full guide to spending a day in Richmond with kids.

Ice Skating

There are outdoor rinks all over London in December and they’re one of the easier things to do with kids.

• Somerset House is the one people picture, in a courtyard with a tall tree in the middle of it. Sessions are about forty-five minutes and they sell out, so book ahead.
• Hampton Court Palace has a rink set in front of the palace, which is the prettiest setting of the lot and worth the trip out if you’re going to Kew or Richmond anyway.
• Winter Wonderland has the largest outdoor rink in the country, though you need a Winter Wonderland ticket to reach it.
• Leicester Square has one right in the middle of everything, which is the easiest to fit into a day you’re already spending in the West End.

Every rink is closed on Christmas Day.

Pantomime

Panto is a very British Christmas tradition that doesn’t really exist in the United States. It’s a comic stage show based on a fairy tale, the audience shouts at the actors, and there’s always a man playing an older woman. Theatres all over London put one on in December.

It’s funny, completely over-the-top, and aimed squarely at children. If you want to experience something during Christmas in London that’s properly British rather than just Christmassy, this is it.

What to Pack

Christmas in London is cold and damp rather than freezing, usually somewhere in the forties Fahrenheit. It rains and it gets dark around four in the afternoon.

Bring waterproof coats rather than heavy ones, warm layers underneath, hats and gloves, and shoes that handle wet pavement. If you’re doing Kew or an ice rink, everyone needs proper warm layers because you’re outdoors for hours after dark.

Most indoor places are heated, so layers you can take off matter more than one thick coat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Christmas in London worth it?

Yes, particularly if you go in late November or the first half of December. The lights, the markets and the ice rinks are all up, the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower than the week before Christmas.

What is open in London on Christmas Day?

Very little. There is no Underground, no bus service and no train service on December 25. Most attractions, shops and restaurants are closed. Many hotels serve Christmas lunch but book up months in advance. Taxis and rideshares run at higher prices.

When do the Christmas lights go up in London?

The main displays on Oxford Street and Regent Street switch on in early November and stay up into January. The Trafalgar Square tree goes up in early December.

When do the Christmas markets start in London?

Most open in early to mid November and run until just after Christmas or into early January. Winter Wonderland opens November 19, 2026 and Christmas at Kew opens November 13, 2026.

How many days do you need in London at Christmas?

Four or five works well. That gives you two days for the regular London sights, one evening for the lights, and one for Kew or Winter Wonderland. If Christmas Day falls in the middle, add a day.

Do Americans need anything to enter the UK besides a passport?

Yes. US citizens now need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit the UK, and that includes babies and kids. It costs £20 per person and you apply through the official UK ETA app or on the UK government website. It usually takes a few minutes, but give yourself at least three working days before your flight in case yours needs extra review. Your ETA is linked to the passport you apply with and lasts two years or until that passport expires, so if you renew anyone’s passport before the trip, apply with the new one. Only use the official app or gov.uk, since other websites charge a lot more for the same thing.

Final Thoughts

Christmas in London is an easy trip to like. So much of it is free, the season runs for seven weeks so you’re not locked into the expensive dates, and the whole city takes it seriously.

Plan around Christmas Day, book Kew and the ice rinks before you go, and go in late November or early December if you can choose. For the rest of your days in the city, I have a London with kids 3 day itinerary and a list of the 22 best things to do in London with kids, and most of them work just as well in December.

One more thing. I’m now a travel advisor with Fora, which means I can help with the actual planning and booking, not just the research. If you’ve ever wanted to ask where to stay, whether a hotel is worth it, or how to book something with points, that’s what I do now. And because you know me, you know I’ll look at cash, points and miles, or a combination of the two, depending on what gets you the most value.

If Christmas in London is on your list, or anything else is, fill out my Travel Planning Inquiry Form and we can plan it together.

For more family trips and points tips, find me on Instagram, and feel free to send me a DM anytime. I’m always happy to help other families travel more.

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  Abroad | Advice | Capital One | Chase | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Italy | Rewards Travel

  How We Booked Europe on Points and Miles for a Family of 11

  ByMari October 19, 2026October 19, 2026

  How we booked Europe on points and miles for a family of 11: our card strategy, Virgin Atlantic award flights, and how we erased our lodging and cruise.

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  Abroad | Best Moments | England | Europe | Family | Featured

  London With Kids: The Perfect 3 Day Itinerary

  ByMari October 4, 2026October 6, 2026

  London is one of the best cities for an international family trip, and for good reason. Some of the city’s best museums are completely free, kids under 11 ride buses and the Underground for free with a paying adult, and there’s always a park or playground nearby when everyone needs a break. With three days in London, you can see many of the city’s biggest sights, mix in plenty of kid-friendly fun, and still keep the pace manageable for the whole family.

  This London with kids itinerary is keeps each day in a single part of the city, so you’re not moving across the city in one day, which can be daunting: London is huge. Day one covers Westminster and the River Thames, day two is the museum district and Hyde Park, and day three is the Tower and the east side. If you have more time, I’ve added some of my favorite additional day trips to round out a 4- or 5-day stay across the pond.

The post Magical Christmas in London With Kids: What to Do and Book Early appeared first on Mari on the Map.

Living up to the name “Dreams” is kind of a tall order, but TL;DR, Dreams Playa Esmeralda did it. I’m still dreaming about it, and I think it might be somewhere we plan an annual trip to… it’s that good! Located in the Dominican Republic, this new Hyatt all-inclusive property had it all: beautiful beaches, lovely pools, fantastic staff, and good food and drinks.

Of course, no resort is perfect, so I’ll spill the tea on some areas of improvement as well. This post covers everything you need to know before you go: how the resort works, what it actually costs, what to do with kids, and whether it lives up to the hype. If you are searching for a family all-inclusive that also gives the adults room to breathe, read on.

What Is Dreams Playa Esmeralda?

Dreams Playa Esmeralda is a new all-inclusive resort on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic, in the Miches region. It opened in late 2025 and is part of the Hyatt Inclusive Collection, which means you can book it with World of Hyatt points. The sister property, Secrets Playa Esmeralda, sits right next door and is adults-only. As a Dreams guest, you have access to both.

One thing to know upfront: when people search “dreams playa esmeralda punta cana,” they are usually referring to the closest major airport, which is Punta Cana International (PUJ). The resort is actually in Miches, about 90 minutes from that airport. It is worth factoring in when you plan, but the drive is easy and the area is genuinely beautiful, far removed from the busier resort strips. You can easily set up a transfer from the airport through the resort, as we did. The ride is so easy and peaceful that most of us fell asleep both directions!

The setting is unlike anything we have seen at a Caribbean resort. The beach is largely untouched, the water is clear, and there are almost no other properties in sight. For families used to crowded resort beaches, it is a real change of pace.

Getting to Dreams Playa Esmeralda

Fly into Punta Cana International Airport and arrange a transfer from there. The resort can organize transportation through their partner Amstar. Private transfers and group transfers are available. Whatever you book, plan for about 90 minutes on the road.

My advice: book your transfer before you arrive. With kids and luggage, this is not the moment to improvise at the airport.

Booking Dreams Playa Esmeralda on Points

Dreams Playa Esmeralda is part of Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection, which means it is bookable with World of Hyatt points. It sits in Category B, so standard rooms on off-peak nights start at 17,000 points for two, and about 32,000 for four at the all-inclusive rate, with premium suites on peak nights running up to 46,000. Considering the all-inclusive rate includes meals, drinks, and activities, the value here is real.

If you’re building your Hyatt points strategy, read about why Hyatt is my favorite hotel brand for family travel and all-inclusive properties like this one are a big part of that. When your room covers food and drinks for the whole family, the points redemption math gets even better. My boys especially loved the virgin piña coladas!

The Rooms

Dreams Playa Esmeralda has 500 rooms and suites, many of which are swim-out, with direct access to the pool from your terrace. The rooms are bright, modern, and well designed, with plush bedding, spacious bathrooms with rain showers and double vanities, and a Bluetooth speaker system. Connecting suite options are available for larger groups, which is worth asking about when you book.

If you are considering the Preferred Club upgrade, it gets you butler service, personalized check-in, and access to exclusive pool and lounge areas including the Windows restaurant for a la carte breakfast and lunch. We went with this option, as we were traveling for my birthday, and our personal butler, Angelo, was very attentive. It felt a little indulgent to use his services, which included unpacking our room, but he was insistent that we should rely on him. His services included 24/7 chat service on WhatsApp, and the best use was to make all of our reservations at the various restaurants on the first day.

One note on the swim-out rooms: depending on which direction your terrace faces, the pool access area may not get much direct sun. Worth asking about orientation when you book if that matters to you. We prefer to not book a swim-out room when our kids are present, since I don’t love the risk of them having direct access to a pool. Even though they are both great swimmers, you can never be too safe around the water. Our third-floor balcony room had a lovely view and a hot tub on the balcony, and I’d recommend it.

Is Dreams Playa Esmeralda All Inclusive?

Yes, and that is one of the biggest draws. Unlike the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, which I reviewed separately and where everything is charged individually, Dreams Playa Esmeralda covers meals, drinks, activities, and entertainment in your room rate. That changes the math significantly for families.

Ten restaurants and seven bars are included, and as a Dreams guest you also have full access to the Secrets side for dining and amenities, which effectively doubles your options. Kids under 13 cannot access the adults-only Secrets pools and certain spaces, but adults can move freely between both properties.

A few things that are not included in the base rate: spa treatments, certain premium excursions, and Preferred Club upgrades. The Preferred Club pools and lounges are also separate. Budget for those separately if you want them.

The Water Park and Pools

If you are looking for resorts with water slides, Dreams Playa Esmeralda delivers. There is an on-site water park with slides for different ages and a dedicated splash zone for younger kids. It is not on the scale of a standalone water park, but for a resort, it is genuinely fun, and the kids spent a significant amount of time there.

Beyond the water park, the resort has four pools including a dedicated family pool and a Preferred Club pool. The family pool area has a swim-up bar, which is a practical feature when you do not want to go far with kids. Pool temperatures ran on the cooler side during our visit, which is worth knowing if you are traveling in winter months.

The beach is the real standout. Wide, soft sand, clear water, and very few people. You can walk along the shore for a long stretch without running into another resort. The waves right in front of the property can be a bit rougher on certain days, but a short walk in either direction finds calmer, swimmable water. Kayaks and snorkel gear are available at the beach hut at no extra charge.

Dining at Dreams Playa Esmeralda

Ten dining options cover a lot of ground: Dominican, South American, Mexican, Italian, and a teppanyaki restaurant called Himitsu. Watching chefs flip and toss food at the table works every time. There is also a buffet that runs breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which is the practical choice when you are feeding multiple kids at different paces.

Make your restaurant reservations before you arrive, or as soon as you check in. Some of the a la carte restaurants fill up quickly, and walk-in availability is not guaranteed at peak dinner times. Poolside food and beach grill options are always available without reservations, which helps on low-key days. The resort also did special pool-side dining some of the days, that was included.

Activities and Things to Do with Kids

Punta cana with kids often means finding a resort that keeps everyone busy without requiring constant parental coordination, and Dreams Playa Esmeralda does that well. The Explorer’s Club for Kids runs programming for ages 3 to 12, staffed by Red Cross-certified staff, with real activities: beach games, sandcastle building, treasure hunts, arts and crafts.

Teenagers have their own space at the Core Zone Teens Club with separate programming, which is useful for families with a wider age range. And for younger kids, nursery services are available for an additional cost.

Beyond the kids clubs, daily activities across the property include tennis, snorkeling, kayaking, dance classes, Spanish lessons, and evening entertainment in the Public Square, a shared village-style area between Dreams and Secrets where both properties come together for music and shows. The nightly programming in the theater spaces gives the kids something to look forward to after dinner.

The Miches region is also worth exploring off-property. Montana Redonda, with its panoramic hilltop views. Samana Bay has humpback whale watching from January through March. Los Haitises National Park is close and impressive. The resort can help organize excursions, though I would recommend doing some research in advance on providers and pricing.

The Spa

The Secrets Spa is shared between both properties and is impressive: massage cabins, a hydrotherapy circuit, sauna, steam bath, and a full beauty salon. It is not included in the base rate, but if you are going to splurge on one extra while you are there, this is the one. Book ahead, especially during busier periods.

Final Thoughts

Dreams Playa Esmeralda is a strong option for families who want the ease of all-inclusive travel without sacrificing quality. Since the resort is still relatively new, it is worth going in with realistic expectations around things like restaurant consistency, service flow, and a few small room details. None of those issues derailed the trip for us, but a resort in its first year of operation will naturally feel different from one that has been running for a decade.

What really makes Dreams Playa Esmeralda stand out is the location. Miches offers a quieter, more remote Caribbean experience while still giving you full resort amenities, an all-inclusive structure, and a beautiful beach that feels very different from the more developed resort areas. The Hyatt points angle also makes it especially compelling, if you are holding points and have been waiting for the right redemption, this is worth looking at seriously.

If you have questions about planning a trip or figuring out the points strategy, send me an email or a DM on Instagram. I am always happy to help you travel more for less!

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

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  Advice | Best Moments | Caribbean | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel

  Dreams Playa Esmeralda Review: A Brilliant All-Inclusive for Families

  ByMari July 11, 2026July 11, 2026

  Read this Dreams Playa Esmeralda review for families, including rooms, dining, kids activities, Hyatt points, all-inclusive details, and what to know before booking.

The post Dreams Playa Esmeralda Review: A Brilliant All-Inclusive for Families appeared first on Mari on the Map.

I will be honest with you: some of the most meaningful travel I have ever done had nothing to do with a famous landmark or a bucket-list city. It happened in tiny towns most people have never heard of, standing in the exact spot where my family started. That is the magic of genealogy trips. You are not just sightseeing. You are walking into your own story.

This is the second genealogy trip I have planned for my family. A few years ago we traced my mom’s side back to England and Scotland, and it was such a powerful experience that I knew we would do it again. This time, we traced my dad’s side of the family to Italy, specifically the Avellino area.

Here is the part I want you to hear, especially if you are an American whose family came from somewhere else a few generations back: you can research and plan a trip like this yourself. You do not need an expensive service or a professional genealogist to get started. A lot of the research is readily available, and most of the tools are free. You just need to know where to look! Let me walk you through exactly how we figured out where our family came from, and how we turned it into an actual trip.

What Genealogy Trips Actually Are (and Who They Are For)

You will see a few different names for this kind of travel. Some people call it heritage travel, some call it ancestry travel, and some call it roots travel. They all point to the same idea: visiting the places your family came from to understand where you come from.

There is a bit of a spectrum here. On one end, heritage travel can simply mean visiting the country or region your family is from, soaking up the culture and the food and the general feeling of the place. On the other end, genealogy trips can get quite specific. You are visiting the actual village, finding the church where your great-grandparents were married, maybe even standing in front of the house they lived in or meeting long-lost family members. How deep you go is completely up to you.

For us, it was important to see the actual small towns our family members lived in. They are not tourist destinations, bBut that is exactly the point. The value is not the place itself. It is the connection. So this guide is as much about how you can find your own places as it is about where we went.

How to Trace Your Roots Before You Go

Before you can plan, you need to know where you’re actually going. This is the research part, and it can be genuinely fun to discover your roots, but I also have to admit that sometimes it’s a little frustrating if you don’t have much information to start. It feels like detective work. Here’s how to uncover your family history without spending a dime.

Start with the Relatives You Already Have

Before you touch a website, talk to your oldest living relatives. Grandparents, great-aunts, the cousin who always seems to know everyone. Ask them for full names, maiden names, approximate dates, and any town names they remember, even if the spelling is fuzzy. Write it all down. This is the foundation everything else builds on, and these stories have a way of disappearing if nobody asks for them.

Use Free Online Tools to Find Your Ancestral Town

This is the step that surprises people. You do not need a paid subscription to make real progress. A few free resources do most of the heavy lifting:

FamilySearch

FamilySearch is run by a nonprofit organization. It’s completely free and holds billions of historical records from all over the world. This is usually where I start. You can build a family tree and search census, birth, marriage, and death records that often list the exact town your ancestors came from.

Ellis Island / Statue of Liberty Records

If your family immigrated to the U.S. between the late 1800s and early 1900s, the passenger arrival records are searchable for free. These manifests frequently list the town from where the person left, which is gold when you are trying to pin down a starting point.

Find A Grave

Find a Grave is a free, volunteer-built database of cemetery records. It is a great way to confirm names and dates, and sometimes to find relatives you did not know existed buried near each other.

Antenati

This website is specifically for Italian roots. It offers free access to digitized civil records from the Italian State Archives, including birth, marriage, and death certificates. If you already know your ancestor’s hometown, you may even be able to view scans of the original documents.

The goal of this step is to get from “somewhere in Italy” to the actual name of a town. Once you have that, everything gets easier.

How to Visit These Tiny Towns

So you have a town name. Now what? When the place is too small to have a tourism website or a single hotel, you have to get a little creative.

Find the Town’s Facebook Group

This is my favorite tip because it works almost every time. Search Facebook for the town’s name. Most small towns, even ones with a few hundred people, have a community group or a “you know you’re from here if…” page. Join it. These groups are full of locals and, very often, descendants of people who emigrated. You can post that your family came from there, share the surnames you are researching, and ask if anyone recognizes them. People are usually thrilled to help.

Reach Out to Local Churches and Town Offices

In a lot of these towns, the church holds records that never made it online. A polite email or message ahead of time, letting them know you are coming and sharing the names you are looking for, can open doors. The same goes for the town hall or local records office. Give them plenty of notice, and be patient. Many of these small towns don’t staff these local offices daily. It helps a lot to Google Translate your message before sending as well, since some of the staff in smaller towns will be older and not fluent in English.

Map the Actual Places You Want to See

Once you know where you are going, drop pins in Google Maps for every meaningful spot: the house, the church, the cemetery, the piazza. It helps you see how close together everything is, plan a realistic route, and make sure you are not driving two hours each way for a five-minute stop. Consider also that some of these towns will not have a hotel or a restaurant, so you’ll need to have a plan for where to eat and stay in relatively proximity.

What We Actually Found in Our Three Towns

For our genealogy trip, the research led us to three small towns in the Avellino area: Atripalda, Aquilonia, and Santa Paolina. I want to be honest about what each one was like, because it shows you that not every stop delivers the same thing, and that is completely okay.

Aquilonia was the one with the most to see in terms of our family history. The town has a tragic past. A devastating earthquake destroyed it in 1930, and there is now a museum and the ruins of the old town you can walk through. For me, this stop was deeply personal. My great-great-grandmother died in that earthquake, and her name is on the memorial in the cemetery. My dad, who had heard stories about his grandfather’s mother from him found the memorial quite moving.

This tragedy is actually the main reason we were able to find such a rich history on our family in this town. Because of the earthquake, the museum was created, and along with it came curators and historians, who recorded our family’s history. I was able to connect with them via the town’s Facebook page and get an English speaking tour scheduled. Due to this town’s tiny size, we weren’t able to stay nearby, and our tour guide had to arrange for the only restaurant in town to open especially for us for lunch.

Atripalda and Santa Paolina were different. We knew our family came from these towns through our research, but there was not a specific house or grave waiting for us. What we did instead was visit the things that were there when our ancestors were, the Roman ruins, the old churches, the streets they would have walked. And felt special enough. You do not always need a big discovery. Sometimes just standing where they stood, seeing what they saw, is the whole point.

Being that Atripalda is a bit of a larger city (Atripalda: ~ 10,172 residents; Aquilonia: ~ 1,485 residents; Santa Paolina: ~ 1,122 residents), there was much more to do there in terms of “being a tourist”, including restaurants, well-preserved town history, and even a gelateria. In Santa Paolina, the highlight was speaking to some of the current residents, who were delighted to see travelers visiting their town. In Italian, an older gentleman told us he hadn’t seen tourists in the town in “many moons”, while inquiring the reason for our visit. He was delighted we were there, and invited us to dinner at his home.

Turning the Research Into a Real Trip

Here is something I learned the first time around, on my mom’s England and Scotland trip: a roots trip works best when it is not only about the research. These tiny towns are often near places you would genuinely want to visit anyway, so build the trip around both.

For our family, the genealogy portion is paired with a bigger Italy trip, and we have spent plenty of time in the must-see spots too. If you are bringing kids along and want a sense of how we balance the meaningful family moments with the typical vacation spots, my guide to the best things to do in Rome with kids is a good example.

A few things that make genealogy trips smoother:

• Give yourself buffer time. Small-town visits never go exactly to plan, and the best moments are usually the unplanned ones. Leave time to wander, explore, and chat with locals if you can.
• Bring copies of old family photos and a simple family tree printout. Showing a photo to a local is a kind of magic. Names and dates translate across any language.
• Document everything while you are there. Take pictures of records, gravestones, and street signs. Keep a few notes each night so the details do not blur together.
• Be flexible about language, and try to learn at least some basic things. Google Translate is a great tool.
• Try to arrive in the morning or late afternoon. Many small towns close for a few hours after lunch during the midday break, so you don’t want to arrive when everything is closed.

What About the Cost?

If you are wondering how a family pulls off an international trip like this without going broke, you are asking the right question. There were eleven of us on this one, and for my parents and my sister’s family, it was their very first time using points and miles to travel. The short version: we covered a huge chunk of it with rewards travel, and it is absolutely something you can learn to do, too. I teach families how to use points and miles to travel for pennies on the dollar in my MAD Miles Masterclass course. Join me here.

Final Thoughts

Of all the trips I have planned, genealogy trips are the ones that stay with me the longest. There is something about standing where your family stood, in a town you had never heard of until you went looking, that reshapes how you see yourself. And the best part is that the planning is within reach for anyone willing to do a little digging. Talk to your relatives, lean on the free tools, find that Facebook group, and go.

If you have been curious about how to trace your roots and turn it into a trip, consider this your sign. Your family’s town is out there waiting, and finding it is more than half the adventure. As always, if you have any questions or want more tips, send me a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to help make your family’s trip unforgettable.

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

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  Family | Featured | North America | Rewards Travel | Southwest | United States

  Southwest Companion Pass Guide (2027): New Rules & Strategies

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  The Southwest Companion Pass has long been one of my favorite ways to save money on family travel. With this popular benefit, you can bring a designated companion on your Southwest flights for just the taxes and fees, starting at $5.60 each way on domestic flights. For families, that can add up to some serious savings!

  BIG UPDATE FOR 2027: Southwest just announced major changes to how travelers earn the Companion Pass, including eliminating credit card welcome offers as a way to qualify under the new rules. But there’s still a limited opportunity to use the current strategy before the changes take effect!

  Fun fact: we used our Southwest Companion passes to get us to and from Hawaii, along with plenty of other destinations. In this updated guide, I’ll walk you through what’s changing, how to earn the pass under the current and new rules, and whether it’s still worth pursuing for your family.

The post How to Plan Genealogy Trips: Free Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Your Roots appeared first on Mari on the Map.

Let’s be honest, change is hard for anyone. But when you’re experiencing the world for the first time, like babies and toddlers, different can be downright scary. Since toddlers lack the verbal skills to communicate their fears, new experience can be riddled with tears and tantrums… unless you prepare toddlers for new experiences ahead of time.

As a traveling family, our kids are constantly presented with new experiences. To make sure they are met with smiles instead of tears, we follow a few simple steps.

Why it Helps to Prepare Toddlers for New Experiences

When you prepare toddlers for new experiences ahead of time, you’re doing a few things at once:

• Giving them a sense of control in a world where most things are decided for them
• Helping them build a mental “story” of what will happen, so it doesn’t feel scary in the moment
• Giving them simple language to describe feelings like “nervous,” “loud,” or “too many people”

This doesn’t make every moment perfect, but it usually means fewer surprise meltdowns and more chances for your child to feel proud of themselves for trying something new.

Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Toddlers for New Experiences

Below are the exact steps we use before a big change, like a trip, a special outing, or even a new class. You can use just one, or layer them together for extra support.

1. Talk to Them

Well ahead of the new place, event, person, or thing they’re going to experience, start talking them through what’s going to happen. Go step by step, speaking slowly, using words they understand. Track their facial expressions for any concerns that may arise. Use your initial chat as a script, and go over daily to make sure they are ready. We like to do this daily at bed time, but any time would work.

2. Show Them Pictures and Videos

Show them pictures and videos of the new experience. It’s easy to do this if it’s a place you’ve been. If you haven’t, YouTube and Google image search are great resources. Comment like a narrator on what’s happening in the video or picture, and let them ask questions. As you did with the talk track, show them these visuals often leading up to the new experience.

3. Role Play How the Experience Will Unfold

Role play how the experience will unfold. For example, if you’re going on a flight, grab an empty suitcase or backpack. Pack it into the car, and pretend you’re headed to their airport. If they’re meeting a new person, pretend you are that person and let them interact with you. Notice when they get stuck, and listen for how they role play to catch any potential concerns they can’t verbalize.

A Real-Life Example: First Flight After a Long Break

These simple tricks have helped our toddlers become pros at facing change and new experiences. In fact, our older son just had his first flight since before the pandemic, and he faced it like a champ. He had been on over 20 flights before the pandemic, but he didn’t remember any of them! He was slightly nervous about the plane being too loud, which he was able to communicate head of time. This helped me show him videos with plane noises, so he could hear what it will be like and mentally prepare. I also brought noice canceling headphones to help with his concerns about the noise. He didn’t even need them!

This is exactly why we continue to prepare toddlers for new experiences even when they’ve technically “done it before.” Time passes, they forget, and their brains process the world differently as they grow. The more we practice, talk, and play through things in advance, the more confident they become when it’s time to actually go.

If your next new experience happens to be air travel, pairing these preparation steps with the ideas from Toddler Flight Essentials will give you a full game plan: how to get them ready emotionally and what to pack so they’re comfortable on travel day.

Final Thoughts

Preparing toddlers for something new does not have to be complicated or perfect. A little bit of talking, showing, and role playing ahead of time can go a long way toward turning big, unfamiliar moments into experiences your child can actually enjoy. When you prepare toddlers for new experiences, you are not only trying to prevent meltdowns in the moment. You are helping them build confidence, learn to name their feelings, and trust that you will guide them through whatever comes next.

What new experiences do your toddlers have coming up? Let me know! Feel free to email me or send a message on Instagram, I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you travel.

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

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  Family | Featured | North America | Rewards Travel | Southwest | United States

  Southwest Companion Pass Guide (2027): New Rules & Strategies

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  The Southwest Companion Pass has long been one of my favorite ways to save money on family travel. With this popular benefit, you can bring a designated companion on your Southwest flights for just the taxes and fees, starting at $5.60 each way on domestic flights. For families, that can add up to some serious savings!

  BIG UPDATE FOR 2027: Southwest just announced major changes to how travelers earn the Companion Pass, including eliminating credit card welcome offers as a way to qualify under the new rules. But there’s still a limited opportunity to use the current strategy before the changes take effect!

  Fun fact: we used our Southwest Companion passes to get us to and from Hawaii, along with plenty of other destinations. In this updated guide, I’ll walk you through what’s changing, how to earn the pass under the current and new rules, and whether it’s still worth pursuing for your family.

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  Abroad | Advice | Capital One | Chase | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Italy | Rewards Travel

  How We Booked Europe on Points and Miles for a Family of 11

  ByMari October 19, 2026October 19, 2026

  How we booked Europe on points and miles for a family of 11: our card strategy, Virgin Atlantic award flights, and how we erased our lodging and cruise.

The post How to Prepare Toddlers for New Experiences appeared first on Mari on the Map.

So many of us women who love to travel go through some big life transitions. First, we’re traveling solo or with friends, then with a partner. But what happens when you become pregnant? Many of us think that our travel days are over, but think again! Traveling while pregnant can be a fabulous and safe experience, with a little preparation. In fact, during my pregnancy, I took nine trips (including one international). As always, check in with your doctor before making any travel plans to ensure you and baby are healthy enough to be away from home.

First Trimester

Take It Slow

For anyone who plans trips in advance, traveling while pregnant may inevitably fall during your first trimester. Unfortunately, many of us aren’t lucky enough to plan exactly when we will get pregnant, and an upcoming trip after your positive pregnancy test might already be in the calendar.

For many women, the hormonal changes that come with the first trimester hit you like a ton of bricks. You’re nauseous, tired, and hungry, while trying to navigate your changing body. My best advice for first trimester travel is to slow things down.

Even though I was nauseous through my first trimester, I thought that I would be able to travel as I used to. That meant being super active with sightseeing, walking around, and experiencing all our destinations had to offer. Well, my body and baby had different plans.

On a trip to Washington, DC, my husband and I decided to walk around the Tidal Basin to see the cherry blossoms. It was a leisurely stroll that took us about an hour. Problems arose when we decided to walk the additional 20 minutes back to our hotel. Typically, this would have been fine. It was a beautiful spring day.

The walk was slightly uphill (about a 5% incline) which normally wouldn’t have been an issue. But while pregnant, it became a huge challenge (as your growing belly can constrict your diaphragm, making deep breaths harder). What should have been a 20-minute walk took us over an hour. People of all ages were passing me on both sides as I huffed and puffed up this tiny hill, completely out of breath. It was frustrating, and I hadn’t realized just how much my body had changed in such a short time.

A few weeks later, when we traveled to the Finger Lakes for a wedding, I was better prepared to take it slow. The walk from our rental house to the wedding venue was only 15 minutes, but I made sure to allow for an hour just in case. And when it came to the end of the reception and friends wanted to go out, I went to bed. The moral of the story is, in your first trimester, allow yourself more time than you would have in the past.

Tips for Traveling in the First Trimester:

1. Rest Often: Schedule downtime between activities, such as a morning nap or an afternoon lounge at the hotel.
2. Pack Anti-Nausea Essentials: Sea Bands, Preggie Pops and ginger chews were lifesavers for me! If your nausea becomes unbearable, consult your doctor about medications that can help make your experience more manageable.
3. Choose Nearby Destinations: Stick to locations that don’t require long-haul flights to avoid overexertion.
4. Bring Layers: Hormonal changes can make you feel hot or cold unexpectedly. Having layers ensures you’re comfortable.

Recommended Places to Visit:

• Relaxing Retreats: Coastal towns or lakeside cabins for quiet, scenic environments.
• Easy Urban Getaways: Cities with minimal walking and good public transportation.

Essential Items for First Trimester Travel:

• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the trip.
• Snacks: High-protein options like this protein powder (that I used!) that can be mixed into a water bottle for on the go or nuts to combat sudden hunger.
• Comfortable Shoes: Opt for slip-on sneakers or flats with excellent arch support to keep your feet comfortable and supported during long walks or travel days. I also wore orthodic inserts in my shoes throughout my pregnancies. You can get fitted for them at at Dr. Scholl’s Orthodics Kiosk. Find a location near you here.
• Comfortable Clothes: Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay cool and comfortable. Even if your body hasn’t changed significantly yet, avoid jeans or any clothing that might compress your belly. Prioritize stretchable and relaxed fits for ease of movement.

Second Trimester

Get Active

The second trimester is the best time for traveling while pregnant. For many women, the nausea and exhaustion stop. You’re getting more comfortable in your growing body. Your energy goes up, and you’re feeling great, maybe even glowing! It’s the perfect time to take your babymoon, especially if you enjoy active city sightseeing or adventure travel.

We decided to do a little bit of both and took a 2-week trip out west to see some of the national parks in Utah and Arizona. That’s right, I hiked the Grand Canyon at 22 weeks pregnant. And you can, too! Bring along the lesson from your first trimester. Take things slow, but also relish in your newfound energy and that pregnancy glow.

Tips for Traveling in the Second Trimester:

1. Plan a Babymoon: This is the ideal time for a getaway with your partner.
2. Stay Active: Incorporate light hiking, walking tours, or yoga classes into your itinerary. Exercise helps prepare your body for labor and deliveryby strengthening your muscles and giving you energy and strength.
3. Listen to Your Body: Take breaks when needed and don’t push beyond your comfort zone.
4. Prepare for Sun Exposure: A natural increase in melanin during pregnancy is responsible for areas of darkened skin, especially on the face. To minimize this “mask of pregnancy” called chloasma, be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat while in the sun.
5. Consider Travel Health Insurance: It’s essential to have travel pregnancy insurance that includes coverage for pregnancy-related care and potential medical emergencies, especially when traveling abroad. Verify that your policy covers prenatal checkups, complications, and emergency delivery, as well as any costs associated with healthcare in your destination country. Always review the terms carefully before your trip.

Recommended Places to Visit:

• National Parks: Enjoy light hikes and scenic views at Zion, Yellowstone, or Bryce Canyon.
• Resorts and Beaches: All-inclusive resorts in places like Mexico or the Caribbean are perfect for relaxation and pampering.

Essential Items for Second Trimester Travel:

• Maternity Belt: Helps support your growing belly during long walks.
• Travel Compression Socks: Great for preventing swelling during flights or long drives.
• Maternity Swimsuit: For poolside relaxation or beach adventures.
• Light Backpack: Keep essentials like snacks, water, and your phone easily accessible.

Third Trimester

Relax & Reconnect

For me and for many women, you bring your good pregnancy feelings from the second trimester into the third. The only issue is that your body is continuing to grow, and that, more than anything, is what will limit you physically if you are traveling while pregnant in the third trimester. Although it’s super important to bring along what you learned in the first two trimesters—take things slow and remain active (you have to prepare for the birth, after all!)—the third trimester is the perfect time for you to pamper yourself, relax, and preemptively catch up on the sleep you’ll soon miss.

As always, ask your doctor if it’s safe for you to travel any time during pregnancy but especially in your third trimester. Many airlines prohibit pregnant women from flying after 36 weeks and require a letter from your midwife or GP after 28 weeks confirming your due date, health, and an uncomplicated pregnancy. My doctor cleared me fortraveling while pregnant, but we decided to keep most of our trips short and close to home.

One of my favorite trips we did in the third trimester was a weekend at a winery/spa about 2 hours from where we lived. It was the perfect place for pampering, yummy food, romantic dinners, and lounging by the pool. It was also really special for me that we brought home a few bottles of wine from my husband’s tasting (I, of course, did not taste any wine!) to enjoy together after our son was born.

Your third trimester is ideal for checking in with yourself and your partner. Your life is about to change in a huge and wonderful way. Enjoy these last few months of traveling as a twosome. Do things that you might not get to do in the coming months like long, leisurely dinners, spa days, and trips to the theater.

Tips for Traveling in the Third Trimester:

1. Stay Close to Home: Choose destinations within a few hours of travel time in case you experience any early labor symptoms.
2. Prioritize Comfort: Opt for luxurious accommodations with spa services or amenities like a pool.
3. Make a Note of Local Hospital Locations: Research nearby healthcare facilities in case of an emergency. Confirm with your health insurance if you already have travel pregnancy insurance for coverage in case any inconvenience occurs.

Recommended Places to Visit:

• Local Getaways: Quaint bed-and-breakfasts or nearby spa resorts.
• Short Road Trips: Explore charming countryside towns or scenic drives.
• Staycations: Book a luxury hotel in your city to enjoy some pampering without the travel hassle.

Essential Items for Third Trimester Travel:

• Maternity Pillow: A must-have for hotel stays to ensure a good night’s sleep.
• Loose, Comfortable Clothing: Maxi dresses or stretchy maternity leggings for ultimate comfort.
• Hospital Bag Checklist: If you’re close to your due date, pack essentials just in case.

Throughout Your Pregnancy

A few lessons that I learned along the way that will apply to every trip during your pregnancy:

• Hydrate: Water is so important during pregnancy, whether you’re near or far from home. Carry a water bottle with you and make sure you’re getting as much as you need.
• Bring snacks: You never know when a hunger attack is going to hit.
• Wear supportive shoes: Avoid swelling and discomfort with good footwear.
• Know where the bathrooms are: You are going to have to go more than you think.
• Encourage circulation: Wear compression socks and take walking breaks.
• Bring comfort items: Travel with anything that helps you feel at ease, even if it takes up more space in your bag.
• Check out all of my essentials for traveling while pregnant.

For more information, review the CDC Yellow Book recommendations for traveling while pregnant.

Final Thoughts

Pregnancy is a unique and wonderful time in your life, and it doesn’t have to limit your love for travel. With careful planning, listening to your body, and the right essentials, you can enjoy safe and memorable trips in every trimester. Whether you’re hiking the Grand Canyon, relaxing at a spa, or sightseeing in a city, traveling while pregnant can be a beautiful adventure.

Did you travel while pregnant or are you planning to? Let me know! Feel free to email me or send a message on Instagram, I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you travel.

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

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  Abroad | Advice | Capital One | Chase | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Italy | Rewards Travel

  How We Booked Europe on Points and Miles for a Family of 11

  ByMari October 19, 2026October 19, 2026

  How we booked Europe on points and miles for a family of 11: our card strategy, Virgin Atlantic award flights, and how we erased our lodging and cruise.

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  Abroad | Advice | Best Moments | Career | England | Europe | Family | Featured

  22 Best Things to Do in London With Kids

  ByMari October 4, 2026October 6, 2026

  London is easier with kids than most people expect. The biggest museums are free, children ride the buses and the Underground for nothing, and there’s a park every few blocks for the moment when everyone needs to stop walking.

  London is big, and the difference between a good day and an exhausting one is usually how much time you spent getting between places instead of being in them. The key to an enjoyable trip is grouping your time by location to avoid hopping around too much in one day.

  If you’re trying to figure out the best things to do in London with your family, this is my list of 22, with the family tips and logistics that make each one go more smoothly.

The post Traveling While Pregnant: How to Travel in Each Trimester appeared first on Mari on the Map.

Gift-giving season is here! Instead of filling your home with toys that may break, become clutter, or lose their appeal, why not focus on experience gifts for kids that create lasting memories? Experience gifts offer amazing opportunities for family bonding and can be used close to home or while traveling.

Whether it’s visiting their favorite animals or characters, venturing into the great outdoors, or enjoying delicious meals together, these ideas are all about creating joyful experiences. Let’s dive in!

Zoo or Aquarium Membership

There is nothing that our kids (and most kids!) love more than animals, so why not give them unlimited access to their favorite creatures?

All zoo and aquarium memberships typically include free yearlong access, and many also include free parking and discounts on food, merchandise, birthday parties, and special events. We make a point of taking advantage of special days for kids like Boo at the Zoo trick or treating, holiday events like Cookies with Santa, and monthly animal spotlights. It’s also a great treat for out of town family visitors with or without kids – everyone loves animals!

Here are some membership options at of zoos and aquariums we love:

Elmwood Park Zoo

Elmwood Park Zoo memberships are around $260 for families with caregivers and offer benefits like free year-round zoo admission, access to exclusive events, and discounts on food, merchandise, and special activities like giraffe feedings and Treetop Adventures ropes course. Members also enjoy discounted admission to participating zoos nationwide and savings on party packages, camps, and facility rentals.

Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium annual memberships include year-round access plus 40% off parking and 10% discounts on general admission, retail, and dining, with additional savings on animal encounters and special events. Tiers run from Individual to Family Plus, each offered in Standard or Premium; pricing is dynamic and shown at checkout, but recent local guidance puts Family memberships starting around $340, and the Land & Sea package that bundles Georgia Aquarium with Zoo Atlanta is currently listed at $490. Premium options add one-time free guest admission tickets and parking vouchers, which can be a good value if you plan to bring friends or visit during peak times.

Philadelphia Zoo

The Philadelphia Zoo membership benefits include free daytime admission all year, free parking for one vehicle per visit, a 10% discount at zoo shops and dining locations, and exclusive access to members-only events and hours. Members also enjoy discounted admission to over 100 zoos and aquariums across the country!

Membership levels now start at the “Zoo for You” Individual membership (currently $69), which covers one adult. Other tiers include “Zoo for 2” ($109) covering one adult plus one guest, “Zoo for 4” ($189) covering two adults plus two visitors (adult or child), “Zoo for More” ($299) covering two named adults plus six additional people, and the top-tier “Zoo Explorer” ($499) covering three named adults plus six additional people.

All membership levels include free daytime admission year-round, free parking for one vehicle per visit, member-only events, and discounts on dining, retail, attractions and special-event tickets. For families, “Zoo for More” includes one carousel and train ride per visitor each visit and two free tickets to the seasonal holiday experience LumiNature; “Zoo Explorer” adds one ticket per person each visit for the “Wings of the World” and “Giraffe Experience”, plus four free LumiNature tickets. Members can add a third named adult or unnamed guest spots to many tiers for a separate fee.
Philadelphia Zoo

Beyond admission, a zoo membership is a meaningful gift and supports ongoing wildlife conservation, education and animal-care programs.

Zoo Atlanta

Zoo Atlanta membership offers unlimited free daytime admission all year long, plus access to special events like Boo at the Zoo, Wild World Weekend, and the Art Gone Wild Artist Market. Members also enjoy discounts on parking, guest admission, select zoo events, and in-park experiences such as rides and family programs. Additional perks include savings on animal sponsorships, Wild Encounters, Safari Camp, and even discounted admission to select zoos and aquariums nationwide.

Membership levels start at $129 for the Companion plan, which covers two adults, and go up to $500 for the Journey plan, which includes five adults and up to four children. Flexible options like the Family Adventure Pack $199 allow for three adults and up to four children, making it perfect for extended families or caregivers. Memberships are tax-deductible and can be customized with e-gift cards or discounted animal sponsorships.

North Carolina Aquarium Society

Family Membership with the North Carolina Aquarium Society offers numerous benefits for families passionate about marine life and conservation. Beyond providing year-round access to all three North Carolina Aquariums for two named adults and their children or grandchildren under 18, this membership includes reciprocal admission (discounted or free entry) to over 150 zoos and aquariums nationwide through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) reciprocity program. Check out all of the zoos and aquariums that belong to the reciprocal program along with their discounts here.

If you need help finding a zoo or aquariums nearby your loved one, here is a list of all of the zoos in the United States, and here is a list of the aquariums in the United States. See if they have membership programs you can gift this holiday season!

How to Make It Personal

Add a little extra money on a gift card to the zoo or aquarium, so kids can take home a stuffie of their favorite animal or other souvenir from the gift shop.

Airline Gift Cards

We’ve lived far away from our family and friends, so we love giving and receiving airline gift cards to help facilitate visits with our non-local family members. Even if your family mostly lives locally, your kids can still benefit from airline gift cards that boost the family travel budget and help them see the world.

And, bonus!, when you buy a gift card through the airline directly, you will earn miles on your purchase that you can use towards future flights of your own. Plus, the person who is using the gift card can also earn miles when they buy their flight. This benefits both the gift card giver and receiver and can be a built-in way to help both of you travel more. For example, Delta purchases.

How to Make It Personal

Pair the airline gift card with a map or book about your destination. We love the Good Night City books for toddlers and the Exploring the States books for older kids.

Local Restaurant Gift Cards for Family “Dates”

About once a month, we go to a restaurant, ideally with new foods for our kids to try. Learning about new cultures through shared food is so fun and helps picky eaters branch out. Our kids look forward to these family date nights, and they’ve loved getting little gift cards that they can use towards a yummy treat at the end of the meal.

Ask Mom and Dad if there’s a favorite local spot, or look online to find a new place for them to try in their area. If you’re searching on your own, choose a restaurant with a unique atmosphere or fun theme—think Italian pizzerias with open kitchens or cafes with large outdoor seating that tends to be more kid-friendly.

How to Make It Personal

Include an Around the World in Food coloring book where they can track cuisines they’ve tried. 

Annual State or National Park Pass

Being in nature is so a valuable gift for kids! Being outside helps young children develop essential motor skills like coordination, agility, balance, and dexterity. Nature walks and hikes in national or state parks are perfect for nature exploration. Our kids love hiking local trails with us as a family, and we often also add hiking to our travel itineraries. State and national parks also often host kid-friendly programs like guided walks, junior ranger activities, or seasonal scavenger hunts.

The “America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Lands Pass” provides access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites for $80. This pass is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase and admits the pass holder plus passengers in the same non-commercial vehicle to many parks sites around the country. With this pass, the whole family can enjoy stunning recreation areas across the United States, with proceeds going towards enhancing visitor services and site improvements. We are America the Beautiful pass holders, and we recently used our pass to spend a wonderful day in Sandy Hook, NJ, where both of our boys earned junior ranger badges.

There is also a version of this pass for US citizens or permanent residents of any age that have been medically determined to have a permanent disability called the Access Pass. This pass is free, and if your loved one qualifies, you can help the family facilitate getting the pass, which requires some paperwork to be filled out and turned in at a National Parks site.

How to Make It Personal

• Add a National Park Activity Book, designed by National Parks expert Meggie of Parks Family Travel. This printable activity book is packed with 30 exciting activities designed to spark curiosity about America’s amazing National Parks.
• Include some hiking gear with the pass. Here is a list of our favorite hiking essentials.
• Consider a National Parks water bottle, so they can add stickers as they hike their favorites

Hiking Ideas and Parks

Through the years, we have hiked in many places around the country, which have been incredibly memorable activities our children have loved. Read about some of our experiences: 

• Diamond Head Hike with Kids: An Unforgettable Family Experience
• Three Great Hikes in Zion for Beginner and Intermediate Hikers

Tickets to See Their Favorite Characters

There are so many theme parks and shows for kids to see their favorite characters in person. Theme parks like Walt Disney World or Disneyland immediately come to mind, but there are lots of wonderful smaller theme parks like Sesame Place Philadelphia or Peppa Pig Theme Park, which we visited. Legoland Florida is our sons’ wishlist right now, and we have a Legoland Discovery Center nearby our home that my mother in law got the boys’ a membership to. They go every time they’re off of school and love it!

How to Make It Special

• Give the tickets along with a small toy or costume related to their favorite character.
• Turn the outing into a full-day adventure with snacks, souvenirs, and photos to remember it by.

More Experience Gift Ideas for Babies, Toddlers, and Kids Up to 8 Years Old

1. Children’s Museums
2. Music Lessons 
3. Swimming Lessons  
4. Dance or Gymnastics Classes  
5. Indoor Play Center Pass
6. Farm Visits: A chance to interact with animals, learn about farm life, and enjoy the outdoors.
7. Art Class or Crafting Workshop  
8. Train Ride Adventure: Tickets for a scenic train ride or themed experience like a holiday express or dinner train.
9. Cooking or Baking Classes  
10. Ice Skating or Roller Skating Pass  
11. Camping Trip or Backyard Campout
12. Horseback Riding

Why Should You Give Experience Gifts for Kids

Gifting experience offers more than just a fun day out. It’s an opportunity to spend time together as a family, create connections between each other and make lasting memories. Plus:

Toys are forgotten within days and create clutter

Toys have a way of taking over your home, creating piles that add to everyday chaos. Studies show clutter can elevate stress and make it harder to focus. Experience gifts, provide mental relief through joy, relaxation, or physical activity. Less mess equals a happier home and mind.  

Fun for Everyone

Experience gifts are a win-win! From a family outing to an amusement park to a family dinner in a new place, these gifts are entertaining for kids and enjoyable for adults, too. When you give experiences, you’re creating shared moments that everyone can look back on.  

Build Stronger Bonds

Gifts that bring people together, like cooking classes or tickets to a kid-friendly show, deepen relationships. Research shows shared experiences strengthen bonds and create meaningful connections. Whether it’s you, a grandparent, or a family friend sharing in the experience with the child, the time spent together makes kids feel loved and valued.  

Encourage Growth and Curiosity

Every experience is a learning opportunity. Museum passes, art classes, and other activities help kids develop skills, explore new interests, and grow their confidence. Even simpler outings, like a nature hike or a day at the zoo, can inspire curiosity about the world around them.

Create Memories That Last Forever

Unlike toys, which often lose their appeal after a few weeks, experience gifts leave a lasting impression. A trip to the aquarium, a ride on a scenic train, or an outdoor adventure create memories that stick with kids for years. They will retell the stories as they grow.

Final Thoughts

The holidays are about celebrating together, and what better way to do that than through meaningful experiences? Use these gifts as opportunities to bond with the little loves in your life.

If you have any questions or need further advice, feel free to email me or send me a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you.

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

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  Family | Featured | North America | Rewards Travel | Southwest | United States

  Southwest Companion Pass Guide (2027): New Rules & Strategies

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  The Southwest Companion Pass has long been one of my favorite ways to save money on family travel. With this popular benefit, you can bring a designated companion on your Southwest flights for just the taxes and fees, starting at $5.60 each way on domestic flights. For families, that can add up to some serious savings!

  BIG UPDATE FOR 2027: Southwest just announced major changes to how travelers earn the Companion Pass, including eliminating credit card welcome offers as a way to qualify under the new rules. But there’s still a limited opportunity to use the current strategy before the changes take effect!

  Fun fact: we used our Southwest Companion passes to get us to and from Hawaii, along with plenty of other destinations. In this updated guide, I’ll walk you through what’s changing, how to earn the pass under the current and new rules, and whether it’s still worth pursuing for your family.

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  Abroad | Advice | Capital One | Chase | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Italy | Rewards Travel

  How We Booked Europe on Points and Miles for a Family of 11

  ByMari October 19, 2026October 19, 2026

  How we booked Europe on points and miles for a family of 11: our card strategy, Virgin Atlantic award flights, and how we erased our lodging and cruise.

The post Experience Gifts for Kids appeared first on Mari on the Map.

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When it comes to maximizing your points and miles for travel, you might be overlooking one of the easiest ways to boost your balance: online shopping portals. These tools have helped us earn extra rewards for purchases our family is already making, and when used strategically, they can be a significant points earning strategy.

Read on for my comprehensive guide on how online shopping portals work, why they’re valuable for families, some of our favorite shopping portals, and how you can use them to supercharge your points-earning game.

What Are Online Shopping Portals?

Online shopping portals are websites that partner with retailers to offer cashback or points/miles for purchases. Instead of shopping directly at your favorite retailer’s website, you start your purchase through a portal, which tracks your transaction and rewards you accordingly.

For example: If a shopping portal offers 3 points per dollar at Macy’s, and you spend $100, you’ll earn 300 points on top of any points your credit card earns via a category multiplier. This is called “stacking” since you are earning rewards from more than one source on a single purchase.

Why Are Shopping Portals Valuable?

• Double Dip on Rewards: You’ll earn rewards from the shopping portal and your credit card.
• Stackable Deals: Combine shopping portal rewards with sales, promo codes, and other discounts for maximum value. You can even still use promo codes or coupons at checkout.
• Strategic Points Earning: You can choose portals tied to your preferred loyalty program, like earning Southwest Airlines miles or American Express Membership Rewards points.
• Minimal Effort: Most portals are user-friendly, and you’re simply adding one extra step to your shopping routine by logging into that site and clicking over to where you want to shop.

Compare Your Offers Before You Shop

If you’re serious about earning points and miles from your everyday online shopping, SaveWise should be your first stop. This free tool compares all the major shopping portals we’ll review here — like Rakuten, Alaska Mileage Plan, American Airlines AAdvantage eShopping, and more — to show you which one is offering the best bonus right now.

Instead of guessing which portal will give you the most points, SaveWise lays it all out in seconds. Just search for the store where you plan to shop, and you’ll see the current cash back or miles rates across multiple portals. SaveWise also offers a paid premium version where you can see offer history to help time your shopping to when points or cashback offers are highest. CashbackMonitor.com also offers a similar offer comparison tool without the upgraded offer history option.

Popular Online Shopping Portals (and Our Favorites!)

1. Airline Shopping Portals

Airlines like Delta, United, Southwest, American Airlines, and more have their own portals where you can earn miles:

• Example: Spend $150 at Macy’s via the American Airlines AAdvantage Shopping portal offering 5 miles per dollar, and you’ll rack up 750 miles.
• Best For: Travelers working toward a specific airline redemption. Since we now live nearest to an American Airlines hub, we use the AAdvantage Shopping portal often, including the browser extension.

2. Credit Card Rewards Portals

Card issuers like Chase, American Express, and Capital One also offer shopping portals where you can earn additional rewards:

• Example: Use the Chase portal to earn bonus points at stores like Apple, Sephora, or Walmart.
• Best For: Maximizing transferable points programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards. We love earning Chase Ultimate Rewards and find them so valuable, especially for booking Hyatt stays, so this is another go-to strategy for us.

3. Cashback Portals

If you prefer cashback over travel points or you love American Express or Bilt, portals like Rakuten (formerly Ebates) or TopCashback are excellent options:

• Example: Rakuten lets you earn Amex Membership Rewards or Bilt points instead of cashback when linked to your account. You must be a current Amex card holder to earn Amex points, but you do not have to be a Bilt cardholder to earn Bilt points. Both allow you to transfer points to hotels and airlines for nearly free travel.
• Best For: Flexible rewards that can either offset expenses or fund your travel plans. I’ve been using Rakuten for years, previously to earn cashback, but I recently switched it over to earning Memership Rewards.

Pro tip: While there is the option to stack with credit card bonuses and category multipliers, you can typically only shop through one shopping portal at a time. Clicking on one and then clicking on another will typically deactivate the first one you clicked on.

Maximizing Points with Credit Card Linked Offers

Shopping portals are an easy and rewarding way to earn extra points, but you can further boost your earnings by activating credit card linked offers. These bonuses are tied to specific categories, promotions, or rotating offers that can make your online purchases even more rewarding by using the specific card the offer is on. Here’s how to activate your offers and make the most of both shopping portals and credit card rewards.

How to Activate Offers on Your Credit Cards

1. Check Your Credit Card’s Website or App

Most credit card issuers make it easy to activate offers directly through their website or mobile app:

• Log into Your Account: Start by logging into your credit card account either through the website or the mobile app.
• Look for Promotions or Offers: On the dashboard, look for a section related to rewards or bonuses. This may be labeled as “Earn More,” “Bonus Categories,” or “Special Offers.”
• Activate the Offer: Once you’ve found the available bonuses or categories, there should be a button or link to activate the offer. Some issuers, like Chase, even offer the ability to activate rotating categories for each quarter.

Example: Chase Freedom Flex offers rotating 5% cashback on specific categories each quarter (like groceries or dining). To activate, go to the “Rewards” section in your Chase account, select the current quarter’s offer, and click to activate. If you hold a Chase Ultimate Rewards earning card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, you can also turn your cashback from the Chase Freedom Flex into points.

If you want an easy way to activate all of your card linked offers at once, CardPointers‘ browser plug-in offers this capability.

2. Check Your Card’s Offers Page

Some credit cards provide detailed information about their rewards program through a separate “Rewards” section or tab. For example, the American Express Membership Rewards program has a dedicated portal where cardholders can review available promotions and activate specific bonuses.

• Look for Special Categories: These might include extra points for certain purchases, such as travel bookings or grocery shopping, or even at certain retailers.
• Activate in Advance: Most rewards bonuses must be activated in advance of a purchase. For instance, one of my cards was recently offering 5x points back at CVS, but I had to activate that offer in my bank’s website before I ran by card at CVS.

3. Sign Up for Alerts and Email Notifications

To make sure you never miss an opportunity to activate a bonus, sign up for email alerts or push notifications from your credit card issuer. Many issuers send out notifications when new offers or promotions become available. These reminders can help you stay on top of activation deadlines. All of the credit cards I hold send me emails multiple times a month to let me know what bonuses are available, but it is on you to go in and activate them.

4. Monitor for Targeted Offers

Some credit cards may also have targeted offers based on your spending habits. These offers are often personalized and can give you additional rewards on specific categories like online shopping or gas purchases. Be sure to check your account regularly to spot these special offers.

• Log In Regularly: Even if you don’t see any obvious promotions, check your account frequently for updates or bonus offers.
• Activate as Soon as Possible: Targeted offers may expire after a certain time frame, so activating them as soon as you see them is crucial.

5. Track Your Bonus Categories and Rewards

Once you’ve activated any rewards bonuses, it’s important to keep track of which categories are active, and for how long. Some credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, allow you to track your progress in earning rewards within specific categories right from the account dashboard.

How to Use Online Shopping Portals and Credit Card Bonuses Strategically

1. Compare Offers Across Portals and Cards

Not all shopping portals offer the same rewards for the same retailer. By comparing offers across multiple portals, you can ensure you’re getting the highest rate possible.

2. Combine Shopping Portals and Credit Card Offers

Maximize your points by pairing your shopping portal purchase with a credit card that offers bonus points for online shopping or specific retailers.

Example: Use Rakuten for 6% cashback or (6x Membership Rewards) at Instacart and a credit card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred 3x on online groceries, combined with Chase card linked offer of 5x back at Instacart.

3. Take Advantage of Portal Bonuses

Shopping portals often have special promotions that offer extra miles or cashback after you meet a minimum spend within a set period. These promotions can be a great way to get bonus rewards on top of your regular earnings.

Example: “Earn 500 bonus United miles after spending $200 through the shopping portal in the next 90 days.” Be on the lookout for these limited-time offers, as they can add significant value to your purchases.

4. Bookmark Your Favorite Portals and Set Reminders

It’s easy to forget to use a portal before making a purchase, but there are ways to keep it top of mind. Bookmark your favorite shopping portals or install browser extensions that remind you to use a portal before checking out. For example, Rakuten offers extensions that automatically alert you if a store is eligible for rewards.

Pro Tips for Staying Organized

1. Use the CardPointers App

Apps like CardPointers track your cards’ best categories and remind you of rewards rates for purchases. Combine this with your portal strategy for ultimate earning potential.

2. Use Browser Extensions

Many portals like Rakuten offer browser extensions that alert you when a store is eligible for rewards. This ensures you never miss an opportunity.

3. Keep Track of Transactions

Use a spreadsheet or note-taking app to track portal purchases and ensure points are credited correctly. Save screenshots of the offers you activated into a folder on your computer or phone. Most portals process rewards correctly within 30-90 days, but it’s good to have the backup if there’s a discrepancy.

Final Thoughts: Earn Points on What You Already Buy

Online shopping portals and credit card linked offers are a simple but powerful way to accumulate way more points and miles with your everyday spending. By strategically using both, you can turn everyday shopping into significant rewards. Whether you’re buying groceries, clothes, or gadgets, those purchases can be converted into your next dream vacation, hotel stay, or other rewards.

With a little planning and the right tools—like apps and browser extensions—you can easily maximize your points earning potential and stay organized. So, next time you’re about to make an online purchase, don’t forget to start at a shopping portal, use your best credit card for that category, and check your credit card’s website for additional offers. The points you earn will add up, and before you know it, you’ll be booking your next family vacation on points and miles.

_{Please note that this article contains affiliate links, and I may earn a referral commission if you choose to apply through my links. As a small business, these earnings help me to continue to bring you content like this at no extra cost to you. Thank you!}

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

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  Family | Featured | North America | Rewards Travel | Southwest | United States

  Southwest Companion Pass Guide (2027): New Rules & Strategies

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  The Southwest Companion Pass has long been one of my favorite ways to save money on family travel. With this popular benefit, you can bring a designated companion on your Southwest flights for just the taxes and fees, starting at $5.60 each way on domestic flights. For families, that can add up to some serious savings!

  BIG UPDATE FOR 2027: Southwest just announced major changes to how travelers earn the Companion Pass, including eliminating credit card welcome offers as a way to qualify under the new rules. But there’s still a limited opportunity to use the current strategy before the changes take effect!

  Fun fact: we used our Southwest Companion passes to get us to and from Hawaii, along with plenty of other destinations. In this updated guide, I’ll walk you through what’s changing, how to earn the pass under the current and new rules, and whether it’s still worth pursuing for your family.

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  Abroad | Advice | Capital One | Chase | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Italy | Rewards Travel

  How We Booked Europe on Points and Miles for a Family of 11

  ByMari October 19, 2026October 19, 2026

  How we booked Europe on points and miles for a family of 11: our card strategy, Virgin Atlantic award flights, and how we erased our lodging and cruise.

The post How to Maximize Points with Shopping Portals and Credit Card Bonuses appeared first on Mari on the Map.

^{This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.}

People often ask me why I prefer points over cashback — especially when cashback feels so simple and straightforward. I get it. Seeing a flat percentage show up in your account feels tangible and easy. But if you love to travel, you’re leaving serious value (and unforgettable experiences) on the table.

Are points better than cashback?

For travelers — yes. While cashback offers a fixed return (usually 1–2%), points and miles can deliver 2–6x more value when redeemed strategically for flights and hotels. In short: cashback saves money; points unlock more value, making your money go further.

Why Points and Miles Offer More Value Than Cashback

Let’s break it down. Cashback rewards are simple — you earn a fixed percentage (like 1.5%) back on everything you buy. It’s predictable but capped.

Points, on the other hand, can multiply in value depending on how you use them. That’s because not all points are created equal. When you redeem travel rewards wisely — like transferring them to an airline or hotel partner — you can easily get 2X, 3X, or even 5X the return you’d get from straight cashback.

For example:

• A flight might cost 40,000 points, with a cash value of $800.
• Those same 40,000 points if cashed out would get you $400.

The value comes from the higher return you get for using your points for travel instead of simply taking the cash.

What’s the Difference Between Points and Cashback?

At the simplest level:

• Cashback gives you a fixed return — usually 1–2% of what you spend.
• Points and miles can fluctuate in value depending on how you redeem them.

For example, $1,000 in spending at 2% cashback gives you $20.
That same $1,000 on a travel rewards card earning 3x points = 3,000 points.

If those points are worth 2 cents each when transferred to an airline partner, that’s $60 in travel value — triple what you’d earn in cashback.

That’s the first big difference: flexibility and potential value.

The Math: Cents Per Point (CPP) and Real-Life Examples

To really understand why points win, you need to know one key concept: cents per point, or CPP.

Formula:
(Value of redemption ÷ number of points used) × 100 = CPP

Let’s say you book a flight that costs $900 cash or 45,000 points.

• $900 ÷ 45,000 = 0.02, or 2 cents per point (2 CPP).

That’s a 2% return — and that’s before counting the points you earned from the purchase itself or from card bonuses.

Compare that to a flat 1.5% cashback card — the travel redemption already wins by 33%, and that’s a conservative example. Many premium redemptions (like business-class flights or luxury hotels) can easily hit 4–6 CPP or more.

Real Example: Family Travel for a Fraction of the Cost

When we took our family to Europe, flights were priced around $4,000 total. Instead, we transferred points to Air France Flying Blue and booked them for 120,000 points and $400 in taxes.

That’s roughly 3 CPP, or the equivalent of getting $3 back for every $1 spent — far better than any cashback card could dream of. For comparison, you would have to spend $200,000 on a 2% cashback card to earn those same $4,000.

And it’s not just flights — we’ve stayed in beautiful hotels through Hyatt for free using the same strategy.

Why Points Feel Better Than Cashback: The Psychology of Rewards

Here’s the part no one talks about — and why points keep people more engaged and consistent over time.

Cashback is transactional. Points are transformational.

Cashback is instant gratification. You earn a few dollars here and there — nice, but forgettable.
Points, on the other hand, are aspirational currency. They represent experiences, freedom, and travel moments that feel priceless.

Think about it:

• $50 cashback disappears on groceries.
• 50,000 points can turn into a family weekend at a beachfront resort.

That emotional payoff is powerful. It’s what keeps people motivated to learn, plan, and spend smarter. And if you’re in the market to master points and miles, I teach a course that will be perfect for you. Join the waitlist here to be notified when we reopen.

The “Dream Trip Effect”

When people start earning points, they’re often saving toward something exciting — a bucket-list destination, a family reunion, a romantic getaway. That goal-oriented motivation turns everyday spending into progress toward something that actually matters.

And when you finally board that flight you paid for entirely with points? It feels like winning a game you designed yourself.

When Cashback Might Still Win

To be completely transparent, cashback has its place. You might prefer it if:

• You don’t pay off your balances in full each month (interest cancels out any rewards).
• You rarely travel and don’t want to manage multiple points or miles programs.
• You prefer simplicity over strategy.

Otherwise, points are the clear winner — especially for anyone who wants to travel more for less.

Cards Worth Considering

If you’re ready to start earning points strategically, here are a few categories of cards that consistently deliver great value:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® – Ideal beginner travel card with transferable points and flexible redemptions. Read my full guide to this card here.
• American Express® Gold Card – Excellent for dining and groceries (both high-earn categories).
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card – A great all-around travel card for beginners and seasoned travelers alike. Read my full guide to this card here.

Pro tip: Don’t pick a card just for the sign-up bonus — choose one that fits your lifestyle and spending patterns.

The Bottom Line: Cashback Feels Good. Points Change the Way You Travel.

Cashback rewards are about saving money. Points and miles are about creating value — unlocking experiences you might never have justified paying cash for.

If your goal is to make travel more accessible, comfortable, and frequent, then points aren’t just better than cashback — they’re your ticket to seeing more of the world for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are points better than cashback for travel?

Yes — for travelers, points usually deliver 2–6x more value than cashback when redeemed for flights and hotels. Cashback gives a fixed return, while points can be leveraged for outsized travel experiences.

What is cents per point (CPP)?

CPP stands for cents per point — a way to measure how much value you’re getting from your points. Divide the cash price of your redemption by the number of points used, then multiply by 100.

Which credit cards offer the best travel rewards?

Cards that earn transferable points, like Chase Sapphire Preferred® or American Express® Gold, usually offer the best long-term flexibility and value.

When is cashback a better choice than points?

Cashback is better if you don’t travel often, carry a balance month to month, or prefer simple rewards with no strategy required.

Ready to start your points journey?

Check out my guide to earning points through everyday spending and learn how my family earned 1 million points in a single year — without changing our budget.

If you have any questions or need further advice feel free to email me or send me a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you.

_{Please note that this article contains affiliate links, and I may earn a referral commission if you choose to apply through my links. As a small business, these earnings help me to continue to bring you content like this at no extra cost to you. Thank you!}

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  Advice | Europe | Family | Featured | How to | Hyatt | North America | Rewards Travel | United States | USA

  Why Hyatt Hotels Is the Best Brand for Family Rewards Travel

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  When it comes to finding the perfect hotel for our family vacation, Hyatt consistently stands out. With an amazing rewards program, family-friendly accommodations, and unbeatable perks, Hyatt hotels makes it easier to travel with our family for way fewer points than other hotel brands (sorry, Marriott and Hilton!). When it comes to rewards travel, brand loyalty always pays off. Here’s why Hyatt has consistently been the best hotel brand choice for our family, for redeeming points at the best value, earn rewards, and stretching our travel budget.

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  Family | Featured | North America | Rewards Travel | Southwest | United States

  Southwest Companion Pass Guide (2027): New Rules & Strategies

  ByMari October 21, 2026October 21, 2026

  The Southwest Companion Pass has long been one of my favorite ways to save money on family travel. With this popular benefit, you can bring a designated companion on your Southwest flights for just the taxes and fees, starting at $5.60 each way on domestic flights. For families, that can add up to some serious savings!

  BIG UPDATE FOR 2027: Southwest just announced major changes to how travelers earn the Companion Pass, including eliminating credit card welcome offers as a way to qualify under the new rules. But there’s still a limited opportunity to use the current strategy before the changes take effect!

  Fun fact: we used our Southwest Companion passes to get us to and from Hawaii, along with plenty of other destinations. In this updated guide, I’ll walk you through what’s changing, how to earn the pass under the current and new rules, and whether it’s still worth pursuing for your family.

The post Why Points Are Better Than Cashback (and Why You’ll Travel Further Because of It) appeared first on Mari on the Map.