Taylor Swift's Eras Tour Exploited Using Miles and Reward Points [Case Study]
The Eras Tour, speculated to be Taylor Swift's last tour ever, was a highly anticipated event for many fans. For one dedicated fan, the journey to attending the concert was made possible through a strategic use of points and miles.
The author, a long-time holder of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, transferred 23,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points to their World of Hyatt account to pay for a night's stay at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa, Gainey Ranch. This stay was arranged through the Guest of Honor program by a colleague, Juan Ruiz.
During their stay, the author enjoyed a room upgrade, free breakfast for two guests, late checkout, and free valet parking. The cash rate for the night at the resort was nearly $600, so the author got over 2.5 cents per point in value with their Chase points.
To travel to the concert, the author transferred 15,000 Amex Express Membership Rewards points to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club to book a one-way flight between New York and Phoenix for $5.60 in taxes and fees. The author also used the American Airlines eShopping portal to earn 3x miles per $1 spent on the purchase.
The author declined the rental car upgrade to stick with a Toyota Prius, rented through the Delta Travel Extras portal for roughly $100 per day, to minimize refueling costs. With the American Express Platinum Card, the author paid for the ticket purchase for the show just 2 days before it took place, securing a floor ticket at less than face value for $390.
The author's inability to afford tickets for Swift's shows growing up and for the 'Reputation' tour made this experience all the more special. The author is also trying to earn back their Delta SkyMiles Platinum Medallion elite status, and until March 31, 2023, one can earn 1 Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) per $1 spent on hotels and rental cars through the Delta Travel Extras portal.
With the author's top-tier Hertz President's Circle status due to their American Express Platinum card, they were able to enjoy a seamless car rental experience. Despite a 17-year career, this was the author's first time seeing Taylor Swift live in concert. The author's strategic use of points and miles made this long-awaited experience a reality.
