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Ian Snyder

Freelance Writer
Distance Traveled in 2026
Visited in 2026

Ian Snyder has had a passion for award travel ever since entering the miles and points world over a decade ago. He enjoys using them to see places both near and far, whether he’s traveling solo, with friends, or with his kids. Especially well versed in frequent flyer programs, Ian understands their intricacies and often is able to maximize his points using the best award deals.

Ian is closing in on 30 countries visited, which may seem like too few for someone who loves to travel as much as he does. But he also loves life in rural Northern California, and returning home from a trip is its own reward. More than anything, Ian wants to demonstrate that extraordinary travel is possible for the ordinary family. He loves helping his friends and family with their own award travel.

Travel Summary
American Express Business Platinum Card Review: Are the New Benefits Worth the Higher Annual Fee?
American Express Business Platinum Card Review: Are the New Benefits Worth the Higher Annual Fee?
4

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is a premium business card that commands a high annual fee but offers tons of value through lounge access, hotel and car rental elite status, over $3,500 in annual credits, travel protections, and even cell phone insurance. Check out our detailed review of the card, covering the welcome offer, earning rates, travel perks, and the array of credits that can save you lots of money. These will help you decide if the card is right for you.

Ian SnyderHarrison Pierce
Ian Snyder & Harrison Pierce

Reviewed by Tyler Glatt

Comprehensive Guide to the New Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards Program
Comprehensive Guide to the New Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards Program
52

With valuable points, a strong elite program, and unique partnerships with global airlines, Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards is one of the best U.S. airline loyalty programs. Here, we provide a complete guide to Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards, including how to earn and redeem points, the ins and outs of elite status, and the best Alaska Atmos Rewards redemption options.

Ben Nickel-D'AndreaIan Snyder
Ben Nickel-D'Andrea & Ian Snyder

Reviewed by JT Genter

Cathay Asia Miles Routing Rules: How to Build Multi-Stopover Trips to Maximize Value
Cathay Asia Miles Routing Rules: How to Build Multi-Stopover Trips to Maximize Value
0

Real magic can happen when you use the Cathay Pacific Asia Miles Oneworld multi-carrier chart to book award tickets. You can add multiple stopovers to create a complex trip at a great price. Some of the pricing bands offer excellent value, especially compared to the cost of many business class one-way and round-trip awards. Here, we cover all the award routing rules in one place.

Ian Snyder
Ian Snyder

Reviewed by Tyler Glatt

Southwest Rapid Rewards Guide: How the 2025 Changes Are Reshaping the Program
Southwest Rapid Rewards Guide: How the 2025 Changes Are Reshaping the Program
11

Southwest’s loyalty program has long been a fan favorite thanks to perks like the Companion Pass, no change fees, and two free checked bags. But major changes in 2025 — including lower earning rates, variable award pricing, and adding bag fees — have reshaped the program. Here’s what still works, what’s changing, and how to maximize your Rapid Rewards points going forward.

Ian SnyderMark Jackson
Ian Snyder & Mark Jackson

Reviewed by Allie Johnson

ANA Mileage Club Guide: How to Earn, Redeem, and Maximize This Valuable Amex Transfer Partner
ANA Mileage Club Guide: How to Earn, Redeem, and Maximize This Valuable Amex Transfer Partner
0

ANA Mileage Club is a frequent flyer program you don’t want to overlook — especially if you collect Amex points. With some of the best redemption rates for premium cabin travel and a strong lineup of airline partners, ANA miles can unlock serious value. This in-depth guide covers how to earn ANA miles, book award flights, maximize sweet spots, and navigate the program’s unique rules.

Ian SnyderCarissa Rawson
Ian Snyder & Carissa Rawson

Reviewed by Tyler Glatt

IHG Milestone Rewards: Earn Perks Every 10 Nights Stayed at IHG
IHG Milestone Rewards: Earn Perks Every 10 Nights Stayed at IHG
0

IHG Milestone Rewards provide additional benefits to frequent guests of IHG hotels. You can earn rewards for every 10 nights stayed each calendar year, starting at 20 nights. The benefits range from bonus points, to food and beverage rewards, to confirmable suite upgrades. At two specific levels, you'll also have the option to select an annual lounge membership. IHG Milestone Rewards can offer excellent value to members, depending on how you use them.

Ian Snyder
Ian Snyder

Reviewed by Allie Johnson

Why Starting With Chase Cards Matters if You’re Under 5/24
Why Starting With Chase Cards Matters if You’re Under 5/24
0

If you're new to the points and miles hobby or looking to dive deeper after just dipping your toes in, you'll want to develop a solid earning strategy. This applies to both welcome offers and ongoing rewards. To do so, you need to understand the rules and restrictions card issuers have in place. With Chase offering so many lucrative bonuses, we recommend designing your credit card strategy around their 5/24 rule. Here's how you best do that, and the potential cost of ignoring this unwritten rule.

Ian Snyder
Ian Snyder

Reviewed by JT Genter

Amazon Business Prime American Express Card Review: Fantastic Rewards on Amazon Purchases
Amazon Business Prime American Express Card Review: Fantastic Rewards on Amazon Purchases
0

If your business consistently spends at Amazon, you're likely missing out on rewards if you don't have the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card in your wallet. The card earns 5% back on Amazon purchases, as well as at AWS, Whole Foods, and other Amazon brands. The card doesn't have much in terms of other benefits, but it's lack of annual fee is another upside.

Ian Snyder
Ian Snyder

Reviewed by Tyler Glatt

Can You Use Credit Card Travel Credits to Pay Award Change and Cancellation Fees?
Can You Use Credit Card Travel Credits to Pay Award Change and Cancellation Fees?
37

One of the frustrating aspects of award travel is often needing to book well in advance to get the best price with your points and miles, knowing that your plans might change along the way. And some programs will charge you (handsomely!) if you have to make these changes. But if your credit card has travel credits, can you use these to cover the award change and cancellation fees?

Jess FarleyIan Snyder
Jess Farley & Ian Snyder

Reviewed by Tyler Glatt

Fly Mint for the Price of Economy: How To Earn and Use JetBlue Move to Mint Certificates
Fly Mint for the Price of Economy: How To Earn and Use JetBlue Move to Mint Certificates
0

JetBlue Move to Mint certificates are a cool perk offered to the higher tiers of TrueBlue Mosaic members. These certificates let you enjoy the comfort and service of the airline's premium Mint cabin for the cost of economy. And it doesn't matter whether you've booked with cash or with points. In this short guide, we'll cover how to earn and use Move to Mint certificates.

Ian Snyder
Ian Snyder

Reviewed by Tyler Glatt