Maximizing Points: Our Budget-Friendly Business Trip to Las Vegas

Maximizing Points: Our Budget-Friendly Business Trip to Las Vegas​

Being a small business owner, not all our trips on points are for vacation.  Credit card points allow us to cover our business travel, because at the end of the day these travels are essentially coming out of our pockets. 

Each January, I attend a major industry conference at The Venetian in Las Vegas. While the event is invaluable for networking and learning, the associated travel expenses can be significant—especially when hotel rates on the Strip soar from their usual $150 per night to over $400 during conference week.  Rooms at The Venetian, where the conference is held go for over $1200 a night.​

To manage costs, we turned to our accumulated travel rewards.​

Flying with Southwest Rapid Rewards and Companion Pass

We booked my flight using Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards points. Thanks to the Southwest Companion Pass, my husband was able to join me for just the cost of taxes and fees. This benefit allows a designated companion to fly with you free of airline charges (excluding taxes and fees) whenever you purchase or redeem points for a flight.  If you want to learn more about how to gain your companion pass read this blog.​

Staying at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino

Instead of staying on the Strip, we opted for the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, located just off the main thoroughfare. This choice allowed us to use Hyatt points for the stay, significantly reducing our out-of-pocket expenses. While it required a short commute to The Venetian each day, the savings and comfort made it worthwhile.  Also with the Rio Hotel being a Hyatt property, we are able to get our globalist benefits at this hotel, which means a free breakfast. The Rio is by far not our favorite hotel, but for the cost of it and for one night during the conference, it is a great option.​

Balancing Business and Budget

Utilizing points and miles for this trip underscored the value of strategic travel planning. By leveraging rewards programs, we managed to attend a crucial business event without incurring substantial costs. This approach not only supports our professional goals but also aligns with our commitment to financial prudence.​

For fellow professionals seeking to optimize their travel budgets, consider exploring reward programs and planning ahead to make the most of your trips.

Here is the breakdown of this quick 24 hour trip

Flights: Departure: Dallas Love Field (DAL) to Las Vegas (LAS)

•  Airline: Southwest Airlines: 25,000 points (husband free with companion pass)

   Booking Method: Redeemed Rapid Rewards points earned through the card

• Hotel: Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas: 9,000 points per night

  Booking Method: Redeemed World of Hyatt points accumulated through this card.

  Total Points: 33,000 for a one night trip for 2 to Las Vegas