There were a couple of pointers regarding flights in the last post, but these additional tips are smart, smart, SMART.

 

1. Look at applying for or doing a balance transfer to a credit card that has an introductory points bonus offer.  There are a bunch via this link, with Amex offering one with 40,000 if you spend a certain amount during the first few months.  That is crazily good – I’ve seen others with 30,000 available – and while I don’t encourage credit card abuse this might be a way to get one up on the bastards.

[Thanks for this tip Anja]

 

 

2. Book a one-way points flight rather than trying to get 80,000 points together and finding a round trip that works with dates.  It’s normally 40,000 miles needed for one way and it seems like finding a single flight is much easier than a return.  You could almost do that with the points earned from a new credit card, or discover (as I just did) that you might be close to that number on one of your existing rewards programmes already (or your great auntie might be and you could get a good deal exchanging her for a years worth of lawn mowing services).  You’ve then got the option of booking a one-way via another airline, which it looks like can be done for around US$1,300 right now

[Thanks for this tip Anni]

 

FYI it seems the Visa Waiver Program is a little different than I remembered so check out this link re visas:

 

This trip is really happening.  I’m saving up for TassiePalooza like I haven’t saved for a holiday in years.  It is going to be bloody brilliant, and for any of you who are able to make the trek, I know you will never regret it.