Chris Chamberlin
Travel writer
Melbourne-based journalist Chris Chamberlin enjoys maximising his points to travel the world in comfort, and as a points coach, he helps others to do the same. From showering on a plane to stretching out in a double bed in the sky, Chris knows all the tips and tricks to fly in style without breaking the bank. His adventures have taken him on over 900 flights and aboard almost 80 airlines, earning lifetime frequent flyer status along the way. Follow him on Instagram @chris_chamberlin
- Opinion
- Travel tips
Beyond spurious damage claims, a car rental company tried a new scam on me
After returning to Australia, a random charge appeared on my credit card. In this case, the rental company picked the wrong victim.
- Chris Chamberlin
Tempted to upgrade by using frequent flyer points? Here’s why it’s not worth it
Business class flights are one of the best ways to redeem your frequent flyer points, but think twice before spending them on upgrading from economy.
- Chris Chamberlin
An upgrade to business class from $130? Here’s how you can do it
Many major airlines, including Qantas and Virgin, let you bid for an upgrade at the last minute. Here’s how you can maximise your chances of getting one at a bargain price.
- Chris Chamberlin
- ★★★½
- Airline reviews
First non-stop flight to island paradise, but don’t expect a wine on board
A 17-hour, two-hop slog has been slashed to one 11-hour journey thanks to the launch of this route.
- Chris Chamberlin
A safe route to Europe, but don’t expect much sleep in this business class
The seat feels tight, and this is a classic example of the difference between a “direct” flight and a “non-stop” flight.
- Chris Chamberlin
- ★★★½
- Hotel reviews
New Melbourne hotel exceeds expectations (and is less than $200 a night)
The city’s latest Accor hotel shows that a quality stay needn’t break the bank.
- Chris Chamberlin
- Opinion
- Savvy traveller
Hotel breakfasts are a big rip-off. Here’s how I get them for free
It’s eggs on toast, not eye fillet – so why are we sometimes charged upwards of $60 a person for that mere morning meal?
- Chris Chamberlin
An airline booted me from a flight over a minor mistake (its own)
A minor flight change can ruin your holiday, especially if you’re on an airline codeshare – and even if you’re not the one who made the change.
- Chris Chamberlin
This airport is functional, but don’t pass through security too early
Don’t arrive too early at New Zealand’s capital city airport and, if you do, don’t go through security until you’ve had something to eat.
- Chris Chamberlin
If you’ve been saving up your frequent flyer points, I have some bad news
Is it better to spend your frequent flyer points quickly or save them up over the years, hoping to cash them in for a luxurious bucket-list trip?
- Chris Chamberlin