In the middle of 2022, I got Volare status on ITA Airways through a status match program they were running. Since then, I’ve found very limited use of this status. Through my Volare Club Premium status, I’m supposed to have access to SkyTeam Elite Plus benefits. However, as of December 31, 2022, I have not […]
Author: Upgraded to Economy
The best travel-size toothpaste for carry-ons
We all know that whenever we’re flying, we have to adhere to the annoying 3-1-1 liquids carry-on rules. I used to think that meant I could only bring small, travel-size toothpaste (only carrying about 0.85 oz in the container) like the below: Believe it or not, those little travel size toothpaste bottles that contain almost […]
How I’m requalifying for AAdvantage Platinum for 2023
Starting for the 2023 qualification year, AAdvantage qualification is based on how many AAdvantage base miles you earn, which count as what’s called Loyalty Points. It doesn’t matter how many segments or miles you actually fly; it essentially only matters how many miles you earn, which is essentially a function of how much you spend. […]
I just turned 18. How do I get a credit card?
If you just turned 18, congratulations! Now that you can legally get a credit card under your name, it’s time to consider getting your first credit card. While it’s not as simple as going online and finding whatever credit card you want and getting approved for it, here’s a simple, no-nonsense path. People may claim […]
Why I applied for the Bilt Rewards Card
I just dipped below 5/24 this month. Two years ago, in October 2020, I had applied for the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa and the Apple Card (a Mastercard). I was looking forward to potentially applying for another Chase card, like the Chase Ink or maybe a cobranded card such as the United Explorer or perhaps […]
Want to use Mastercard at Costco instead of Visa?
Fun fact: Yes, it is possible to use Mastercards at some Costcos. What’s the catch? It has to be at a Costco in Canada. Did you know that your Costco membership, no matter where it is purchased, gets you access to any Costco in the entire world? In Canada, only Mastercards can be used at […]
Why you should never cancel a credit card
Ever think a credit card has no more use for you? While it may seem like canceling or closing that credit card is a great way to close that chapter of your life, it actually causes more harm than good. In short, credit cards should never be canceled because the longer a credit card is […]
Pre-booking flights for weekend trips
After a recent long weekend trip to San Francisco, I’ve become quite amenable to taking more trips on weekends. As I live in Seattle, Alaska Airlines has become my primary go-to airline, since this is their primary hub. Combined with my AAdvantage Platinum status, which is oneworld Sapphire, I get comfortable benefits when flying on […]
Discover it® Cash Back Card finally becomes useful again for 3 months
For the last 3 months of 2022, those of you with the Discover it® Cash Back Card that gives 5% back on rotating quarterly categories will find the cash back category finally widely applicable and generally useful. From October to December 2022, in addition to 5% back on Amazon purchases, all purchases made with Apple […]
Why Global Entry rocks for land crossings
Take a look at the line I passed at the Peace Arch.