#12 I’m sharing exactly what’s in my wallet as we wrap up 2025 and head into 2026. I break down the cards I actually use every day, why they fit my spending habits, and how they support the future trips I’m planning especially Japan.
With the home-buying process finally behind us and the move complete, my wallet looks different this year. I also share why I slowed down on opening cards, how lenders react to new credit activity, and what I learned going through that experience while trying to secure a mortgage.
Why This Setup Works for Me Right Now
A quick look at how this new chapter new home, new office, baby on the way shaped the cards I’m prioritizing.
• How lifestyle changes affected my strategy
• Why your wallet should match your goals, not someone else’s
Capital One Venture X
My main catch-all card and the one I rely on the most.
• Solid 2x earning on everyday purchases
• Why I avoid booking flights through travel portals
• Real example of using its rental car protection
• How I plan to use Venture miles for ANA through Virgin Atlantic
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus
The newest card in my wallet and the star of my late-year strategy.
• Signup bonus and my plan to meet the minimum spend
• Why I’m targeting the Companion Pass for 2026
• How this fits into future family travel with a baby on the way
• The story of how my original plan earlier this year fell apart
• How Southwest helps with cheap positioning flights for Japan trips
Bilt Mastercard (Revamp Coming February 2026)
A card that paused for now but will become important again.
• Mortgage payments becoming eligible for points
• Three new versions of the card rolling out
• Why transfer partners like Hyatt and Japan Airlines matter
• How Rent Day works
• New Rakuten partnership for easier point earning
Citi AAdvantage Business (Past Card, Future Use)
Not currently in my wallet, but a meaningful piece of my Japan strategy.
• 70K AA miles ready for a Japan Airlines booking
• Why AA miles work so well for JAL redemptions
• How this business card avoided affecting my 5/24 count
• Possibilities for future Citi cards to boost my AA balance
Looking Ahead to 2026
How I’m rebuilding and preparing for next year’s travel goals.
• Replenishing the Chase points I used on Hyatts in Japan and Korea
• Having my wife go for the Sapphire Preferred
• Keeping an eye on the rumored Hyatt card refresh
• Continuing a Player Two system for better long-term earning
Final Thoughts
This episode isn’t about copying my exact wallet it’s about showing the thought process behind building one that supports your own life and travel goals. Everyone’s path looks different, and that’s the beauty of this hobby. These are just the cards that make sense for me right now as we head into a new year.
If you want to share what’s in your wallet or get help building a setup that fits your goals, feel free to reach out anytime. I’d love to hear what you’re working toward for 2026.
Rewarding Routes Stan Store
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Email
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