Cameron Laufer Latest Posts

Cameron is a freelance writer who grew up with a passion for traveling and seeing the world. It was a curiosity in points and miles that led him deep into the hobby. Since 2018, he has traveled the world for less using points, along with his wife and three teenage children. He is a moderator with the Award Travel 101 Facebook community.

Cameron enjoys pickleball, hiking, golfing, and skiing, as well as rooting for Purdue and Cleveland sports teams. His favorite country is Switzerland.

Latest Posts

How to Redeem Amex Membership Rewards Points — And Which Options Offer the Best Value

Have Amex points and wondering what to do with them? From luxurious business class flights to poor-value gift cards, not all redemptions are created equal. This guide breaks down the best (and worst) ways to redeem your American Express Membership Rewards points—including sweet spots with ANA, Virgin Atlantic, Iberia, and more — so you can get the most value from every point.

Guide to Southwest’s Icelandair Partnership: How to Book, Earn Points, and Add a Stopover

Southwest’s partnership with Icelandair opens the door to new international travel opportunities. You can now book joint itineraries from several Southwest cities to Iceland — and even add a stopover on your way to Europe. Here's what travelers can expect, how to earn Rapid Rewards points on these bookings, and what’s coming next for this expanding partnership.

United Cutting Excursionist Perk, Revamping Upgrades in MileagePlus Shake-Up

United Airlines is cutting several MileagePlus perks this summer and fall — including the Excursionist Perk, instant upgrades on full-fare tickets, and the award upgrade chart. If you're a frequent flyer or savvy award traveler, these changes could impact your strategy. Here's a full breakdown of what’s going away, when each change takes effect, and what you can still do to lock in value before the deadlines.

Deal Alert: Fly Aer Lingus Business Class to Europe for 45k Alaska Miles (Or Amex Points)

If you want to head to Ireland this summer in style without breaking the bank, we've got just the deal for you. Business class seats on Aer Lingus to Dublin, Shannon, and beyond start at just 45,000 Alaska miles per way, a fraction of what many other programs charge for transatlantic premium cabin flights. Here's an overview of this deal, and how you can take advantage of it even if you don't currently have Alaska miles.