Welcome to The Points Analyst — your ultimate guide to unlocking the world of travel through rewards, points, and miles!

Here at The Points Analyst, we are passionate about helping travelers — from beginners to seasoned jet-setters—make the most of their credit card points, loyalty programs, and travel perks. Whether you are looking to book your first free flight, score a luxury hotel stay for a fraction of the price, or learn the finer points of maximizing your everyday spending, you have come to the right place.

Our mission is simple: to turn complex travel rewards systems into actionable strategies you can use to create unforgettable experiences. We know the world of points and miles can feel overwhelming, but with the right tools and insights, it becomes a powerful way to save money, travel better, and see more of the world for less.

Here is what you can expect from The Points Analyst:

  • Expert Tips & Strategies: We break down the latest credit card offers, loyalty program updates, and earning opportunities so you are always ahead of the game.
  • Step-By-Step Guides: From redeeming miles for maximum value to navigating elite status perks, our guides simplify even the trickiest aspects of travel hacking.
  • Value-Driven Insights: Every recommendation is focused on getting you the most bang for your points, because your rewards should stretch as far as your travel dreams.
  • Real-World Examples: We share personal stories and detailed case studies to show exactly how you can turn points and miles into incredible trips.

At the heart of it all, The Points Analyst is about empowering you to travel smarter and live better. With every post, we aim to inspire and educate so you can confidently plan your next adventure using rewards and loyalty programs.

Meet The Team

 

Kevin Zanes

Kevin Zanes – Founder & CEO

Hi! I am Kevin Zanes, and travel has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My journey started when I moved to Taiwan at just one year old, and since then, I have had the privilege of living in 11 countries and exploring over 70. From childhood adventures to family trips with my wife and our four children (three boys and one girl), travel has always been a way to connect with the world and create lasting memories.

With undergraduate degrees in Business and Psychology from Indiana University and an MBA from Harvard Business School, I have spent 17 years at Eli Lilly, specializing in Finance, Advanced Analytics, and Compliance. My career has revolved around data, and I have developed a knack for uncovering hidden insights and optimizing complex systems — a skill set that has proven invaluable in my personal passion for travel rewards.

As my family grew, I turned to points and miles to make travel more affordable, leveraging credit card rewards, loyalty programs, and a few strategic tricks to stretch every dollar. By combining my background in data analytics with a love for exploration, I have been able to unlock incredible value, from luxury hotel stays to nearly free flights.

In 2022, I launched The Points Analyst to share what I have learned and help others travel more while spending less. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or just starting your journey, my goal is to provide practical strategies and insights that make rewards programs work for you.

When I am not working or writing, you can usually find me planning our next family adventure or diving deep into the latest loyalty program updates.