Updated May 2026

We turn points & miles
into unforgettable luxury travel.

Meet Erika & JP — the couple behind Roaming Cactus.

Our Story

We’re Erika & JP, a couple who believe that luxury travel shouldn’t require a luxury budget. We use points, miles, and strategic credit card spending to experience the world at the highest level — and we document exactly how we do it.

Our recent trips have taken us to the vineyards of Uruguay, the Gothic architecture of Barcelona, and the vibrant streets of Bogotá — all booked using points and miles. These journeys fuel everything we share on Roaming Cactus.

After years of testing offers, tracking redemptions, and refining strategies on real trips, we created this site to give you honest, data-backed guidance you can actually use in 2026.

How We Test & Verify Everything

Every recommendation comes from hands-on experience, not theory.

1

We use the products ourselves

We apply for, activate, and spend on the cards and programs we review during real premium trips.

2

Real redemption tracking

We log exact points earned, statement credits used, and redemption values in detailed spreadsheets.

3

Official source verification

We cross-check issuer terms, program rules, and award charts directly from the source before publishing.

4

Regular updates

Valuations, comparisons, and strategies are refreshed as offers and program rules change throughout 2026.

Meet Erika & JP

Erika of Roaming Cactus - Travel hacker and photographer

Erika

Travel Hacker & Photographer

Erika has always been driven to travel. She has explored extensively through Central America, Europe, Asia, and North America, always seeking meaningful experiences and beautiful landscapes.

When she’s not on the road, you’ll find her on the ranch with our dog and cat, tending to the land and enjoying the slower pace that makes travel even more rewarding.

JP of Roaming Cactus - Points and miles strategist

JP

Data-Driven Redemption Strategist

JP is obsessed with turning points and miles into the most luxurious travel possible. He specializes in squeezing maximum value from rewards programs so every trip — from lounge access to five-star hotels — feels extraordinary.

After years focused on smart economy travel, he now concentrates on premium experiences and shares the exact strategies that make them accessible.

Real Results from Real Trips

Everything we share is tested on our own journeys — including recent luxury travel to Uruguay, Barcelona, and Bogotá.

1.2M+
Points Redeemed
3
Continents on Points (2025–2026)
Dozens
Cards & Programs Tested
2026
Fresh Valuations & Strategies

What Sets Us Apart

We exist to make luxury travel more accessible and rewarding through transparent, tested strategies.

Fresh 2026 credit card reviews with real-world testing and value math
Detailed points & miles valuations based on actual redemptions (updated May 2026)
Clear comparisons of airline alliances, lounge access, status matches, and sweet spots
Honest “is it worth it?” analysis — see our full breakdown of the Chase Sapphire Reserve
Real examples from cards like the Amex Platinum and Amex Gold

Our Editorial Standards & Disclosures

We only recommend products and services we believe will add real value based on our own travel hacking experience, points redemptions, and card usage. Our opinions are always independent.

This website contains affiliate links to credit card offers, travel booking platforms, and loyalty programs. If you click on one of these links and apply for a credit card, book travel, or make any purchase, Roaming Cactus may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. This compensation helps us produce more free content.