It’s the Thrifty Traveler Podcast Holiday Party, and what better way than to celebrate than with another mailbag episode?! We listen and react to voicemails from some beloved listeners and colleagues, including questions about the biggest story of the year, a bunch of incredible booking brags, the worst travel mistakes we’ve made, how our listeners (and bosses) really feel about all the Canada stuff. Plus, Gunnar kicks off the show with an extra special (cringe? brutal?) introduction. Happy Holidays, Thrifty Travelers!

Thanks to HotelSlash for sponsoring this episode of the show! Try it out today: Use promo code THRIFTYTRAVELER for a free 90-day trial – plus, get $20 off your first prepaid booking!

Watch us on YouTube!

00:00 - ‘Twas the Pod Before Christmas…

02:30 - What’s the biggest story in travel we covered on the pod in 2025?

05:35 - Trip Brags: Our listeners and colleagues brag about their best 2025 bookings

20:30 - What deals do we want in 2026? What’s left on our bucket lists?

24:45 - A word from our sponsor: HotelSlash, the easiest way to book a cheaper hotel stay - & rebook when prices drop

25:35 - Travel mistakes - Amy learning things the hard way and Grover wants to know if they’re cut out for the points and miles game after all?

33:20 - A hodge-podge of questions: How many credit cards & tipping in lounges

41:20 - Oh, Canada: Are Gunnar’s days with the company numbered?

47:30 - Sylvia puts us on the spot about our biggest mistake … and her own

52:10 - Some special holiday thank-yous to our colleagues and listeners

Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas

Video editing by Kyle Thomas
Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot

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