The Thrifty Traveler Podcast, Ep. 35: Biz Class Bonanza, New Lounges & 6 Big News Stories
It's a news roundup! We cover eight big travel stories, from new lounge openings to some of the best business class awards we've seen.
The Latest in Travel
Hilton Confirms Major Loyalty Program Overhaul with New ‘Diamond Reserve’ Tier on the Way
Hilton’s playful Instagram post all but confirms that big changes are on the horizon for the Hilton Honors program. While full details haven’t been announced, the leaked “Diamond Reserve” tier appears to be real - and could reshape Hilton’s elite landscape starting as early as 2026.
The Latest on Shutdown Travel: End in Sight, But Disruptions Will Continue
One month into the government shutdown, problems are mounting as unpaid air traffic controllers and TSA agents call out sick.
Shutdown Delays Expose a Big Gap in Travel Insurance Protections
As the shutdown drags on, travelers are facing growing uncertainty - not just from canceled flights and long airport lines, but from the fine print of their credit card benefits, too.
Will My Flight Be Canceled & What About Thanksgiving? FAQs on FAA Flight Reductions
Airlines have begun cutting flights after a federal mandate to cope with the ongoing government shutdown. Still, there are more questions than answers.
Earn $750 (or 75K Points) With No-Annual-Fee Chase Ink Business Cards!
The Chase Ink Business Unlimited and Ink Cash Cards both offer $750 (75,000-point) bonuses, making it an easy decision to add either of these cards to your wallet.
Hyatt & Chase Announce Expanded Partnership: New Premium Card Coming Soon?
Hyatt and Chase are deepening their partnership, with Hyatt set to launch new, likely higher-end, credit card(s) in the not-so-distant future. With Hyatt's plans to more than double card revenue by 2027, time is of the essence.
Delta Officially Launches ‘Comfort Basic,’ Its First Step Toward Unbundled Premium Fares
Delta Comfort Basic is the first unbundled premium fare to hit the U.S. airlines, and the clearest sign yet that “Basic Business Class” and “Basic Premium Select” fares aren’t far behind.
Flying Soon? What to Do to Prepare for Thousands of Cancellations
The federal government's directive to cut up to 10% of flights will lead to thousands of cancellations and countless delays. It's time to prepare.
Bilt and Rakuten Launch New Partnership, Letting You Earn Points for Online Shopping
The rumored Bilt and Rakuten partnership is now official. Starting today, Thursday, Nov. 6, Rakuten users can now link their Bilt and Rakuten accounts to opt into earning Bilt Points.
From Tokyo to Morocco: Everywhere You Can Fly Under $399 Roundtrip This Winter
You can reach five different continents with roundtrip airfare in the $300s this winter ... if you know where to look.
Qatar Airways is Now Charging to Pick Seats on Business Class Award Flights
Qatar Airways has started charging for advance seat selection on business class award tickets and Avios upgrades, effective Nov. 3, 2025.