In our latest edition of our series to introduce you to the Go to Travel Gal volunteer team, we’re introducing Lisa Whitlaw, who joins us from Atlanta as an editorial assistant.
 
Lisa helps us conduct research, proofread posts and update posts whose content may need a refresh, since things change so rapidly in the points and miles world!
 
Lisa in Asheville
Lisa hiking in Asheville

Here’s what Lisa had to say in answer to our travel FAQ:

1.  What’s your favorite travel credit card?

My favorite card is the Chase Sapphire Preferred card.

2.  What’s the best trip you’ve taken using miles and or points?

Lisa and boys in Yellowstone
Lisa and her boys enjoying Yellowstone National Park

Our family’s trip to Yellowstone National Park and The Grand Tetons.

3.  What’s something you never travel without?

A reusable water bottle 

4.  How often do you travel each year?

On an airplane at least twice a year, hopefully more in 2019. We also take a few car trips each year.

5.  What’s your travel style?

Lisa W Chimney Rock

I started thinking it might vary by location, but it really doesn’t. I go on as many trips as possible and as cheaply as possible. 
 
For example, I’ll pack food in my suitcase and hit the grocery store upon arrival. In Yellowstone, we bought a cooler and food and rode around in our car and had picnics along the way. At the end of the trip we donated our $20 cooler to the cabin attendant! Well worth the expense compared to eating out. 

We do go out to eat also, because that is part of learning the culture. We just don’t eat out every meal. I try to find deals for everything!

7.  Where did you go on your longest flight and how long was it?

Hawaii when I was 11 years old (does that still count :)?) It was 12 hours I think. 

8.  Have you had the Southwest Companion Pass yet and if so, for how long?

Just got my Southwest Companion Pass from the Southwest credit card offer earlier this year that let you earn the pass after meeting the minimum spend on the card!  I am currently planning an anniversary trip for myself and my husband.  

9.  Where is your next trip?

We’ll be traveling to Denver/Keystone area in the spring and hopefully Grand Cayman in the summer. 

10.  When you aren’t planning or going on your next trip, what might we find you doing?

Hanging with my family and watching my kids play baseball, hockey, basketball, etc. I also teach preschool at my church. I try to find time for hiking and recently got into scuba and caving (thanks to my son).  
 

Author

  • Cami Sauder

    Cami Sauder, a member of the Families Travel Free team, is a longtime traveler who aims to be away from home at least 1/3 of the year. She's mastered the art of using miles and points to save on flights and hotels and saved more than $16,000 on travel using points in the last year. She and her husband have a goal to see as many National Parks as possible.