FTU Dallas 2026 Preview | New Venue, Speakers, Tours, Live Podcast Studio & Earn/Burn Points

Frequent Traveler University Dallas is back for 2026, and host Justin Vacula is joined by returning guest Hunter Threadgill to preview everything attendees can expect from FTU Dallas, May 1–3, 2026.

In this episode, Justin and Hunter discuss the new FTU Dallas venue at NYLO Las Colinas, part of Tapestry Collection by Hilton, located near DFW Airport, along with expected attendance of around 200 people. They break down what makes this event appealing for points and miles enthusiasts, including a refreshed conference structure with Saturday focused on earning points and miles and Sunday focused on burning points for travel.

They also cover what is new for 2026, including a Friday airline tour, open-bar happy hour, a Friday night game show, and a new live podcast studio. The conversation highlights ticket pricing, FTU membership benefits, hotel options, included lunches, speaker topics, sponsor involvement, and the networking opportunities that make Frequent Traveler University events valuable for both beginners and advanced travelers.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:32 FTU Dallas 2026 Overview
01:59 Weekend Format: Earn and Burn
02:30 Tickets and Membership Perks
04:02 What’s New in 2026
05:54 Behind-the-Scenes Planning
07:21 New Speaker Highlights
10:25 Returning Favorites and Travel Legends
14:33 Hotel Deals and Nearby Stays
16:52 Announcements and Useful Links
18:39 More Speakers and Sponsors
20:24 Sponsors and Sessions
21:05 Conference Fun and Networking
22:13 Using Card Credits in Dallas
22:52 Tex-Mex and Restaurant Picks
24:30 Next Credit Card Applications
24:51 Status Goals and Priorities
26:23 Bilt Credit Hotel Win
29:33 Chase Edit and IHG Stacking
30:37 Upcoming Trips: Miami and More
31:33 Big Trips: Island Stay and Asia
33:06 Cherry Blossoms and Washington, DC Plans
35:27 FTU Dallas Final Reminder
36:03 Plum Card Roast Tease
37:04 Wrap-Up and Support Links

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