7 tips for traveling with friends using travel rewards
Booking travel with friends can be tricky when using different rewards programs.
8 min read
Nov 08, 2024
Cathleen McCarthy
Former Senior Editor, Credit Cards
EXPERTISE
- Rewards strategy
- Small business marketing
EDUCATION
- Bachelor of arts degree in journalism, the University of Maryland
Highlights
- Journalist published in dozens of magazines, newspapers and websites
- Founder and editor of The Jewelry Loupe
- Speaker and writer specializing in small-business marketing, travel and credit
Experience
After receiving her B.A. in magazine journalism from the University of Maryland, Cathleen worked as a staff editor for consumer and trade magazines before becoming a full-time freelance writer.
Her stories on design, travel and business have appeared in dozens of publications including the Washington Post, Town & Country, Wall Street Journal, Marie Claire, Fodor’s Travel, Departures and The Writer. In 2009, she launched The Jewelry Loupe, a magazine-style blog that now has more than 25,000 followers around the world. Cathleen writes and speaks about marketing creative small businesses.
Media
"Opening a Storefront" for the Jewelry Business Forum last month and building a brand at NYNOW last year.
Business
Blog: https://thejewelryloupe.com
Instagram: http://instagram.com/thejewelryloupe/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/thejewelryloupe
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thejewelryloupe
Cathleen's latest articles
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How I combined Amex rewards to book a trip for two to Greece
How I combined Amex cards to book a trip for two to Greece.
4 min read Oct 18, 2023
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Why you should have money conversations with your children early
Talking money with your kids can help them become financially responsible adults.
4 min read Dec 08, 2023 -
Why I’m skipping Black Friday for Small Business Saturday
This year, I want to be intentional about shopping small.
4 min read Nov 13, 2023 -
Credit card application rules by issuer
There are a litany of rules around approvals, welcome bonus eligibility and the number of cards you can have.
9 min read Oct 24, 2023 -
Best hotel perks you can get with a credit card
Hotel rewards credit card holders can get access to room upgrades, late checkout, free breakfast, lounge access and free nights among other perks.
4 min read Oct 18, 2023 -
Why I pay my rent with a credit card
Charging rent on a credit card has drawbacks. But given the amount Americans pay for rent, there’s a strong incentive to earn rewards.
5 min read Oct 16, 2023 -
How I use credit cards to combat inflation
When prices go up, credit cards can help you keep costs down. Here’s how one personal finance expert is using her airline credit card to save money and combat inflation.
3 min read Aug 11, 2023 -
How to grocery shop during a recession
What to buy, when to shop and how to earn rewards on groceries
3 min read Jul 27, 2023 -
Cards that get you top-tier hotel elite status via card spending
Whether you’re a business traveler or taking the family on a much-needed vacation, having elite status can pay off.
6 min read Jun 30, 2023
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Should I pay my mortgage with a credit card?
It’s possible to pay your mortgage with a credit card, but you’ll face some obstacles, namely in fees an potential interest charges. This type of payment could also impact your credit score.
5 min read Mar 28, 2022 -
The Fed tackles inflation: Three possible scenarios for mortgage rates
Consumer prices are soaring, and that’s forcing the Fed to act.
3 min read Mar 28, 2022 -
Earned income tax credit (EITC): What it is and who qualifies
This popular tax break can be one of the trickiest.
5 min read Mar 24, 2022 -
8 tips for working with contractors
Everything to ensure a seamless home improvement experience, from choosing the right pro to negotiating the right price.
6 min read Mar 24, 2022 -
How long should I keep my credit card statements?
Credit card statements contain important financial information. Here’s how to manage both paper and digital statements.
3 min read Mar 23, 2022 -
What is a credit card security code?
A credit card security code is a three- or four-digit number that’s found only on a physical credit card.
3 min read Mar 15, 2022 -
Warren Buffett’s top tips for beating inflation
What you should and shouldn’t do to combat rising prices, according to the Oracle of Omaha.
4 min read Mar 14, 2022 -
How to avoid panic buying in an ultra-competitive housing market
The competition for so few homes is leading some buyers to throw caution to the wind.
4 min read Mar 14, 2022