The Thought Card: Smart Travel Tips and Travel Hacking For Financially Savvy Travelers - podcast cover

The Thought Card: Smart Travel Tips and Travel Hacking For Financially Savvy Travelers

Danielle Desir Corbettthoughtcard.com
What if you could explore the world, no matter your budget? Are you tired of putting off that dream vacation because of your finances? Wish you could explore new destinations more regularly without going broke? Well, you’re in the right place! Welcome, financially savvy travelers! If you’re passionate about traveling and want to get your finances in order, 'The Thought Card' has you covered with practical money-saving tips and travel hacks to help you create unforgettable travel experiences. From building a travel fund to finding cheap flights and other traveling hacking tips, enjoy luxury travel at a fraction of the cost. Join Danielle Desir Corbett every other week as she shares creative ways to achieve your travel dreams and obtain financial freedom. We cover topics like: - How to save for a trip - How to score cheap flights and save on hotels - Things to do at some of the top travel destinations worldwide - Tips for traveling for free (or nearly free) - The best travel rewards credit cards - How to pay off debt while exploring the globe, and much more! As a travel expert and author of six books, Danielle has traveled to 27+ countries, including favorites like Iceland, Bermuda, and China. She'll help you boost your travel savings and explore extensively without accumulating credit card debt. This award-winning, 4x grant-funded, and 1.5% globally ranked travel podcast is perfect for anyone looking to take more vacations with family and friends, develop healthy financial habits, and make informed financial decisions that pave the way for a lifetime of travel adventures. Follow 'The Thought Card' on your favorite podcast platform! To learn more, including reading our award-winning blog, visit: thoughtcard.com. Subscribe to our newsletter: thethoughtcard.substack.com Connect on Instagram: @thedanielledesir If you love road trip podcasts, check out 'Road Trip Ready Podcast' for road trip inspiration and planning tips, hosted by Danielle Desir Corbett and Christopher Rudder at roadtripreadypodcast.com.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

197. How to Take Better Travel Videos (and Must-Have Camera Gear) with Juliana Broste

Ever come home from a trip with a bunch of random video clips… and no idea what to do with them? 😅 Today, I’m joined by Emmy Award-winning travel filmmaker Juliana Broste (also known as Jules), who is sharing her best tips for capturing better travel videos. We’re diving into shot setup, storytelling, and must-have gear for filming on the go. From beginner-friendly accessories to tips for filming solo—and even how to actually use your footage later—this episode will help you level up your trave...

Jul 03, 202530 minSeason 6Ep. 197

196. How To Book FREE Stopovers and Visit Two Cities for the Price of One with Charlotte Gage

✈️ What if you could visit a second country on your next trip without paying extra? Charlotte Gage joins us to share how stopovers can unlock free bonus destinations on your next vacation. Learn the difference between a layover and a stopover, how to book them, and which airlines offer the best deals — plus insider tips to make the most of your time on the ground. Charlotte Gage is what she calls a “professional traveler.” She helps make travel safer, more cost-effective, and more accessible. So...

Jun 19, 202539 minSeason 6Ep. 196

195. Is Budget Travel Still Possible? What You Need To Know in 2025 Feat. Matthew Kepnes

Think travel is too expensive in today’s economy? Think again. I’m joined by Matthew Kepnes, a.k.a. Nomadic Matt, to explore whether budget travel is still possible in 2025 and beyond. We get into: Money-saving tips that still work Travel hacks that no longer do Surprising destinations where your dollar stretches way farther than you’d expect Back in 2005, one trip to Thailand changed Matt’s life forever. He quit his job, set off to backpack the world for a year... and never stopped. Since then,...

Jun 05, 202520 minSeason 6Ep. 195

194. How To Outsmart Thieves While Traveling With Rachel Bloom

Ever had that heart-sinking feeling when you realize your wallet, phone, or bag has gone missing? You're not alone. Over two million people a year become victims of theft while traveling. Rachel Bloom is the designer of stylish smart bags built to protect your valuables on the go. She shares common ways travelers get targeted by thieves and easy habits to keep your belongings safe. We talk about: Rachel's personal pickpocketing story that sparked her business Easy habits to keep your stuff safe ...

May 22, 202521 minSeason 6Ep. 194

193. How to Learn a Language Before Your Trip with Lindsay Dow | Essential Vocabulary For Travel

Headed abroad and do not speak the local language fluently? Curious about learning languages for travel? Whether you're a planner who starts learning months in advance or someone who wings it with Google Translate, this episode is for you. Lindsay Dow of Lindsay Does Languages , a language educator who has studied over 15 languages, shares practical, low-pressure tips to help you build the confidence to learn a new language before your trip. Read blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/language-apps-...

May 08, 202558 minSeason 6Ep. 193

192. Top 2025 EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival Experiences You Can't Miss | Spring at Walt Disney World

Celebrate spring with breathtaking flowers, creative topiaries, and tasty treats at the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival. Striking a perfect balance between nostalgia and fun new surprises, discover why attending this festival is one of the best times of year to visit Walt Disney World. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at the planning process with EPCOT Chef de Cuisine, Kevin Downing, and Disney Proprietors of Festivals, Rick DiCicco, and Tom Kovacs. A special thank you to Walt D...

Apr 24, 202533 minSeason 6Ep. 192

191. Tips For Planning a Multigenerational Disney Family Vacation

Planning a trip to Disney World that includes multiple generations can be rewarding and involves unique considerations (and challenges). Here are our best Disney tips to help you create a magical experience that everyone, from grandparents to grandkids, will cherish. This podcast episode is made possible with the support of Walt Disney World, the sponsor of this episode. Start planning your next Disney World vacation today by visiting DisneyWorld.com . ➡️ Don’t head to Disney without this! The D...

Apr 17, 202532 minSeason 6Ep. 191

190. Practical Ways Disney World Caters To Families With Kids Under Three

Planning a Disney trip with a baby? You’re in the right place! We’re uncovering the baby-friendly side of Walt Disney World — from thoughtful amenities to must-know tips that make visiting with little ones easier than ever. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned Disney traveler, tune in to discover why bringing your baby to the parks can be a magical (and stress-free) experience for the whole family! This podcast episode is made possible with the support of Walt Disney World ! Start p...

Apr 10, 202536 minSeason 6Ep. 190

189. Feel Financially Unbothered Managing Your Business Finances with Gina Knox

Without the right systems and mindset, managing your business finances as an entrepreneur or small business owner can be a nightmare. It's time to live debt-free, have your taxes paid, and have a thriving business even with inconsistent income! Money Coach for Small Business Owners Gina Knox shares her insights on achieving financial security despite the unpredictability of variable income. Read blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/business-savings/ In this episode, Gina breaks down: The biggest f...

Mar 27, 202548 minSeason 6Ep. 189

188. How Tilting Futures is Reimagining the Gap Year & Shaping Future Leaders (Erin Lewellen)

Travel can be a transformative experience that helps you learn about yourself and the world, pushing you out of your comfort zone and fostering personal growth. One of the best times to have a transformational travel experience is during a gap year, in this case, between high school and college. Erin Lewellen, CEO of Tilting Futures shares her life-changing trip to South Africa at the age of 22, where she volunteered with survivors of domestic violence. This experience deepened her understanding...

Mar 13, 202529 minSeason 6Ep. 188

187. How To Fund Your Dream Honeymoon With Honeyfund (Sara Margulis)

Couples who travel together stay together. What if you could crowdfund your honeymoon? So, instead of receiving wedding gifts, your friends and family could contribute to funding your dream honeymoon. More and more newlyweds are favoring cash gifts over traditional wedding gifts. Sara Margolis, CEO and co-founder of Honeyfund , explains how the platform helps newlyweds fund unforgettable honeymoon experiences and offers practical tips for getting loved ones on board. Plus, we’ll look at emerging...

Feb 27, 202520 minSeason 6Ep. 187

186. The Best Time To Visit New York City (and Cheapest Too)

Planning a trip to NYC? You may be wondering when is the best time to visit New York. Well, you might not expect me to say this, but as a New Yorker who moved away but visits regularly, I can confidently say that WINTER is secretly the best time to experience the city at a deep discount. If you are looking for the best deals, fewer crowds, and wildly fun adventures, here’s why you should book a winter New York City trip. Read blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/best-time-to-visit-nyc/ Other Episo...

Feb 13, 202518 minSeason 6Ep. 186

185. Must-Visit Stops Along the Vermont African American Heritage Trail

Vermont holds a special place in my heart and ranks among my favorite places in the world. When you visit the Green Mountain State, you are surrounded by Black history and culture. Join me as we explore the Vermont African American Heritage Trail, which shares the stories and experiences of Black Vermonters who influenced their local communities and our nation. Read this blog post for Vermont travel planning: https://thoughtcard.com/vermont-african-american-heritage-trail/ Read this blog post fo...

Jan 30, 202536 minSeason 6Ep. 185

184. Building Wealth Gives You More Options...Here's How With Ange Marie

It's not too late to start investing and building your wealth. Discover how to achieve the freedom that comes with financial independence with Ange Marie, a money coach who helps women grow their money through stock market investing—without the need to work extra hours on a side hustle! Ange Marie outlines three main strategies for building wealth and provides practical approaches to committing to (or recommitting to) your investment journey, helping you secure your financial future. Other Episo...

Jan 16, 202535 minSeason 6Ep. 184

183. How Families Travel Luxuriously Almost For FREE with Stephanie Antin

Stephanie Antin cracked the code for family travel using points and miles. Her family of five has traveled to six continents and dozens of countries for almost FREE. Stephanie explains how families can better strategize travel reward redemptions for business and first-class flights and practical ways to use points for luxe stays, like picturesque underwater bungalows in Tahiti. Read the blog: https://thoughtcard.com/luxury-family-travel/ Connect with Stephanie Anin at almostfreefamilytravel.com ...

Jan 09, 202534 minSeason 6Ep. 183

182. The Ultimate Guide To Achieving Travel Goals

What are your travel goals for the upcoming year? Today, we’re exploring how to set and achieve travel goals with intention. Discover how setting intentional travel goals can transform your wanderlust into unforgettable adventures! RESOURCES MENTIONED: Travel Goals Printable Read the blog: https://thoughtcard.com/travel-goals/ ✨ Book a Travel Savings Strategy Session! In this 1:1 session, we’ll map out a savings plan based on your travel goals, timeline, and budget—whether it's a dream trip or m...

Dec 19, 202430 minSeason 6Ep. 182

181. Moving to Argentina: How Laura Marks Transformed Her Career and Lifestyle As a Digital Nomad

What if you could live abroad and enjoy a lower cost of living while building a fulfilling career? Laura Marks shares her inspiring story of moving to Argentina and how she's redefined what it means to live an enriching life. Ready to learn how you, too, could embrace location independence and transform your career and lifestyle? Tune in to learn about the joys of asado, the power of community, and the financial benefits of geo-arbitrage! Financially savvy travelers, join my newsletter: https://...

Dec 05, 202435 minSeason 6Ep. 181

180. CardPointers Review: How To Maximize Your Credit Card Rewards Earning Potential

Wondering what card in your wallet to use for an upcoming purchase? Put away your spreadsheet or handy notes app because today, I’m going to introduce you to a tool that gets the job done. Introducing CardPointers , the app that helps you track credit card rewards and offers and tells you the best card in your portfolio to use for every purchase. No more missing out on precious points and miles! Sign up for CardPointers: cardpointers.com/thoughtcard Join my newsletter: https://thethoughtcard.sub...

Nov 21, 202420 minSeason 6Ep. 180

179. Trips vs. Vacations - What’s the difference?

Confused about the difference between a trip and a vacation? Discover how your expectations can shape your adventures, and learn how to plan your next getaway—whether it's a whirlwind trip filled with exploration or a relaxing vacation focused on self-care. Tune in to my travel podcast to refine your travel style and make the most of your time off! Read the blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/trips-vs-vacations/ Hey! If you enjoy my podcast, I'd be so grateful if you could Buy Me a Coffee . Resou...

Nov 07, 202421 minSeason 6Ep. 179

178. Sidestep These Costly Airport Mistakes + 8 Essential Flying Tips

None of us enjoy spending money unnecessarily. I’m sharing my biggest flying mistakes of all time and what I’d do differently. We’ll go beyond the usual, like missing flights, forgetting to apply for visas, or missing out on opportunities to earn miles. Read the blog post: Hey! If you enjoy my podcast, I'd be so grateful if you could Buy Me a Coffee . Resources Mentioned Airhelp : flight compensation for delayed or canceled flights SafetyWing : worldwide travel medical insurance coverage Medjet ...

Oct 24, 202432 minSeason 6Ep. 178

177. Boston Travel Guide: Things To Do To Celebrate Black Culture (and Support Black-Owned Business)

Wondering what to do and where to eat to support local Black-owned businesses in Boston? Boston is a vibrant hub for Black culture. Discover Boston’s Black history, from the courageous individuals who fought to abolish slavery to the thriving Black-owned businesses and visionaries shaping the city today. Follow this Boston travel guide for the top things to do in Boston, focusing on Black history, heritage, food, and culture. Read blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/black-owned-businesses-boston/...

Sep 26, 202446 minSeason 6Ep. 177

176. Subscribe To These Travel Newsletters For News, Inspiration and Resources

Travel newsletters are among the best ways to stay informed and inspired as travel consumers or business owners. Some travel newsletters fuel wanderlust, offering practical advice like travel hacks, destinations to visit, and how to save money. Others share industry news, trends, and insights. Here are my top picks for travel newsletters. Subscribe to a handful or all of them. Read blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/travel-newsletters/ Want more cheap flights, points and miles, and money-saving ...

Sep 12, 202422 minSeason 6Ep. 176

175. Remarkable Places in Manitoba, Canada To Discover Indigenous Culture, Visual Art, and Natural Wonders

Welcome to the Canadian province of Manitoba! Manitoba, the ancestral homeland of the Métis Nation and other Indigenous peoples of present-day Canada, is a treasure trove of rich Indigenous stories, heritage, and attractions. Join me as we experience the beauty, history, and spirit of Indigenous traditions and artistic expression in Manitoba. From bannock-making to viewing the largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art worldwide, we’ll start in Riding Mountain National Park and make our...

Aug 29, 202430 minSeason 6Ep. 175

174. Unforgettable Indigenous Cultural Experiences in Saskatchewan, Canada: Connect with Land, Art and Indigenous Cuisine

Welcome to the Canadian province of Saskatchewan! Explore Indigenous art, visit the home of Canada’s longest-running archaeological dig, savor a delicious meal foraged from the prairies at the Han Wi Moon Dinner, and step back in time to learn about the 19th-century Métis community that built and defended their home along the South Saskatchewan River. You’re listening to Part I of a two-part series exploring Indigenous history, culture, and attractions across the Canadian provinces of Saskatchew...

Aug 22, 202423 minSeason 6Ep. 174

173. Budget-Friendly U.S. Vacation Destinations That Won’t Break the Bank

I often see articles promising to share the most affordable travel destinations within the U.S. As I start reading, I shake my head — no, no, no. They’ve got it all wrong! Here are my top picks for budget-friendly vacations in the U.S. that offer rich experiences and thrilling adventures without draining your wallet. What are your favorite budget-friendly travel destinations within the United States? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Read blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/affordable-vacation-spot...

Aug 15, 202419 minSeason 6Ep. 173

172. Top Travel Hacking Podcasts For Savvy Travelers

The travel hacking landscape is constantly evolving. Listening to travel hacking podcasts is one of my favorite ways to deepen my travel hacking knowledge. Here’s a recommended list of my favorite travel hacking podcasts. These podcasts are packed with insider tips, expert interviews, and real-life experiences, which will help you become a travel hacking pro in no time! What are your favorite travel hacking podcasts? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to DM me @thedanielledesir . Read blo...

Aug 08, 202415 minSeason 6Ep. 172

171. Lessons From Traveling With Toddlers (It's Possible and Enjoyable!)

Saying kids grow up fast is an understatement. It feels like yesterday we packed our car for our first road trip with Baby K to The Adirondacks, New York. Since then, we’ve road-tripped across the country, flown internationally, and have half a dozen local getaways under our belt. I’m not going to lie, traveling with toddlers can be stressful, full of tantrums and big emotions, and endless running around, but it's so worth it. Here are the most important lessons I’ve learned about traveling with...

Jul 25, 202421 minSeason 6Ep. 171

170. Secrets To Flying Business Class on Points and Miles with Dave Grossman

Have you ever flown business or first class? Want to fly premium cabins more often without dishing out a lot of cash? Dave Grossman has spent over 15 years traveling the world in first class using points and miles, saving tens of thousands of dollars. He breaks down the differences between points, miles, and cashback, and explains why transferable points offer the ultimate flexibility. Dave also shares insights on how to exponentially earn more rewards to afford business and first-class tickets,...

Jul 11, 202441 minSeason 6Ep. 170

169. 10 Financial Reasons To Travel Now (Rather Than Later)

Traveling is often put on hold due to various reasons, such as financial constraints, health concerns, or waiting for the "perfect" time. Discover the importance of seizing travel opportunities now rather than later and how travel can be a life-changing personal investment and source of inspiration for your financial journey. Read the blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/travel-now/ 🎧 Binge my Vacation Fund Series 🎧 Binge my travel hacking episodes Episode Sponsor - Thrifty Traveler Join tens of...

Jun 27, 202419 minSeason 6Ep. 169

168. Creative Ways To Fund Vacations (Without a Side Hustle)

Not everyone has the time or ability to take on extra work due to various life circumstances, such as being a caretaker, facing health issues, or having a demanding schedule. However, this doesn't mean you can't save money for your dream vacation. Explore creative ways to fund your travels without relying on a side hustle. Read blog post: https://thoughtcard.com/creative-ways-to-fund-travel/ Hey! If you enjoy my podcast, I'd be so grateful if you could Buy Me a Coffee . 🎧 Binge my Vacation Fund...

Jun 13, 202416 minSeason 6Ep. 168
Hosted on Libsyn
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android
Open in Metacast