Stacy Roberts opens a new credit card each month, allowing her to accumulate 1 million points annually. She tells her 321,000 followers that her family is rich in credit card points. Last year, she, her husband, and their three children traveled to Spain, Denmark, Austria, Italy, California, Utah, and Hawaii for approximately $4,300.
How She Maximizes Points
Roberts explains that she dedicates time to learning the system. She and her husband open about 12 credit cards per year, earning at least 1 million points combined annually. She values her trips at $83,000, with two round-trip business-class flights to Japan accounting for $30,000. She books off-season, takes her daughter out of school, and uses points for hotels costing up to $3,000 per night.
Spending to Earn Points
Roberts averages $2,500 to $3,000 per month in spending, but she strategically uses large expenses—like $20,000 in ice damage reimbursed by insurance or a $20,000 tax payment—to meet sign-up bonuses. She pays a fee for tax payments but finds it worthwhile for the miles earned.
Managing Credit Cards Responsibly
Roberts has 16 credit cards but has never carried a balance in 25 years. She sets all cards on autopay and uses only one card at a time. Her credit score is 832. She advises against applying for credit cards six months before a mortgage application.
Avoiding Store Cards
She never signs up for store cards, preferring travel rewards for better value. She also recommends opening business cards for side hustles to earn more points without affecting personal credit limits.
Closing Cards and Annual Fees
Roberts closes most business cards after a year if they lack ongoing value. She keeps personal cards open or downgrades to no-fee versions. Last year, she paid about $3,000 in annual fees, but many cards have no fee.
Mistakes and Lessons
In her younger years, she closed old cards before opening new ones, which shortened her credit history. She advises keeping old accounts open to maintain a long credit history.
Why Travel Matters
Roberts believes travel teaches adaptability and open-mindedness. She wants her children to avoid ethnocentrism and appreciate diverse ways of life. She quotes Mark Twain: “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.”
