Last week we were lucky to have Scott McMurren at our Empowered Women Smart Money: Ladies Travel Secrets. As financial planners the #1 wish we hear for retirement is time and money for travel. Whether it’s making the most of your hard-saved dollars flying to Europe in a sleeping pod or travel in our own beautiful state, Scott is Alaska’s preeminent travel expert. Last week he pulled back the curtain on some of his secrets to finding the most value out of our travel dollars.
My number one take away was that the ubiquitous Bank of America/Alaska Airlines card may not be the best deal for all Alaskans. The imbedded travel insurance, mileage ticket availability both on their own and partner airlines, as well as access to club rooms in airports around the world are highly correlated to the annual fee that you pay. Sometimes it makes sense to pay more. He suggested we check out the benefits of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card and their less expensive Preferred Card as well as the Ink Business Preferred Card. Compare these to your travel habits and decide which suits you best. You can find even more at www.cardsfortravel.com.
My number two take away was that there are a lot of ways to get to the lower-48 for less money than I’ve been paying. They may be on airlines I have never heard of and I might be holding the door to the restroom for other passengers but what if that is worth the savings? It’s a choice I was never informed enough to make and now my eyes are opened.
One size never fits all when it comes to your money and that is why we brought Scott to our event and why we customize each of your financial plans. As far as the sleeping pod to Europe, well you’re going to have to ask Scott about that: www.AlaskaTravelgram.com.
Marietta Hall, CFP®
Financial Advisor
4/24/19
