The Travel Planning Strategy That Saved Tina Time and Stress

Real-world example using Frontier GoWild™, airport lounge perks and travel hacking strategy.

The Challenge

My friend Tina and I are taking a cruise this September, and we needed to get her from Denver to Los Angeles.

Unlike some travelers, Tina wasn't in a rush.

We had plenty of time before the trip, so instead of immediately booking the first flight we found, we took a more strategic approach.

Step 1: Apply for the Frontier Credit Card

I encouraged Tina to wait and apply through one of Frontier's onboard credit card offers.

The application process was simple, and about 10 days later her new card arrived.

As soon as she received it, we connected the card to her Frontier account and made sure everything was set up correctly.

Step 2: Start Searching

Once her account was setup, we began looking at flight options for our September cruise.

Our goal wasn't simply to find the cheapest flight.

We wanted flight times that actually worked for our travel plans.

After comparing several options, we found a roundtrip itinerary for just $121.

Could we have found something slightly cheaper?

Yes, there was a $65 RT available with a layover.

The flights we chose had departure and arrival times that fit our schedule much better, were non-stop, all of which made the small extra cost worth it.

Step 3: Don't Wait Too Long

One thing I've learned from budget travel is that waiting for the "perfect deal" can sometimes cost you a good deal.

Although Tina's card benefits had not fully activated yet, the fare was attractive enough that she decided not to risk losing it.

We booked the flight.

Once her card benefits finish attaching to her account, she should be able to add her checked bag benefits according to the current program terms. We do have a back up plan though, just in case.

Step 4: Plan the Entire Journey

Flying is only part of the trip.

Since we'll both be departing from Denver, we're planning to use the Bustang and train combination to get to the airport.

That's another travel strategy many people overlook.

Sometimes the biggest savings come from looking at the entire journey rather than just the airfare.

The Real Lesson

Cheap travel isn't always about finding the absolute lowest fare.

It's about understanding your options, planning ahead, and making decisions that fit your schedule and travel goals.

In Tina's case, a little patience, a little planning, and a willingness to learn the system helped her secure a flight she feels great about for our upcoming cruise adventure.

And now the countdown to September begins.

Most travelers compare airlines only by ticket price.

Experienced travelers compare total travel value.

Where Airport Lounge Access Changes Everything

A flight with a six-hour layover sounds painful.

Unless you have:

• Free food
• Wi-Fi
• Comfortable seating
• Quiet workspace
• Complimentary drinks

This is exactly why I recommend carrying at least one travel card with lounge access.

Instead of sitting at a crowded gate for six hours, you're relaxing, working, eating, or planning the next leg of your trip.

A long connection becomes much less of a problem.

The Frontier Credit Card Advantage

If you're flying Frontier regularly, the Frontier Mastercard can create additional savings.

Depending on your status and promotions, benefits may include:

• Free checked bag benefits in qualifying situations
• Elite status opportunities
• Special member offers
• Travel credits and promotions

One of the most interesting features for many travelers:

First-Year Annual Fee Waived

Many current offers waive the annual fee for the first year.

Anniversary Flight Voucher

After qualifying spend requirements, cardholders may receive a $100 flight voucher each account anniversary.

That voucher alone can offset the card's annual fee.

(Always review current card terms before applying since offers can change.)

If you're considering the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard, the best way to apply is often while you're actually flying on a Frontier flight.

Flight attendants frequently distribute special promotional flyers that include a unique offer code with a special QR code offer. Depending on the promotion available at the time, you may receive bonus miles or other incentives simply by applying through that flyer.

If you don't have access to an onboard offer, the next best option is to visit Frontier's website and review the https://www.flyfrontier.com/ current credit card promotion directly from their homepage. I'll include a link so you can check the latest offer available.

👉 Fly Frontier ​Link​

Once your card arrives:

✔ Add it to your Fly Frontier account

✔ Make sure you're enrolled in Frontier Miles

✔ Review your card benefits and activation requirements

✔ Use the card as required to activate or maintain eligible benefits

✔ Familiarize yourself with any travel perks available to you

Benefits, offers and eligibility requirements can change over time, so it's important to read the current terms and conditions and understand exactly what perks are available when you apply.

The travelers who get the most value from the card are usually the ones who take a few minutes to learn their benefits and actually use them. Whether that's bonus miles, travel credits, bag benefits, elite status opportunities, or other promotions, understanding your available perks can help you maximize the value of both the card and your Frontier travel experience.

My Recommendation

The GoWild! Pass is not for everyone.

It's best for:

✔ Flexible travelers

✔ Remote workers

✔ Weekend adventurers

✔ People who can travel on shorter notice

✔ Travelers willing to trade convenience for dramatic savings

It's probably not ideal for:

✘ Travelers who require specific departure times

✘ Families traveling during peak periods

✘ Anyone who gets stressed by schedule changes

Could You Save Hundreds or Thousands?

The real question isn't whether you can find a $31 or a $50 roundtrip flight.

The question is:

How much could you save over an entire year if you had access to deeply discounted flights whenever you wanted to travel?

If you're curious about the GoWild! Pass, I'm putting together my favorite tips, strategies and current offers, sign up below for updates.

Interested in Trying the GoWild! Pass?

I don't have a referral link for the GoWild! Pass itself, but I do have a referral code you can use when signing up.

I'll provide a link to Frontier's official GoWild! information page where you can review the current pass options, pricing, and benefits. During the enrollment process, you'll have an opportunity to enter my referral code.

Frontier periodically offers several pass options, including annual, seasonal and monthly plans, so be sure to review the current offerings to find the one that best fits your travel style.

Before enrolling, I strongly recommend reading the current terms and conditions, especially regarding:

• Automatic renewals
• Cancellation requirements
• Renewal pricing
• Booking restrictions
• Taxes and fees

These details can change over time, so it's always best to review the most current information directly from Frontier before making a decision. I have a special guide I can share if you reach out through email or messenger.

When you're ready, use the information link below and enter my referral code during signup.

Referral Code: 90090721172

Learn More About GoWild! 👉 Frontier GoWild ​

​

Want More GoWild Travel Tips?

Get my best Frontier GoWild strategies, real trip examples, flight alerts and money-saving travel hacks delivered to your inbox.

​