120. How Megan Used Points & Miles for the Ultimate Harry Potter Family Trip

What's better than throwing a Harry Potter-themed birthday party? How about taking your child on a real Harry Potter adventure across Scotland and London! That's exactly what Megan did for her daughter's 10th birthday—making the magic come alive with points and miles. In this episode, Megan explains how she made this trip happen for her family of five—and how using points made it more affordable than a trip to Universal Studios!

Flying to Scotland on Points

Megan and her family started their journey with flights on KLM Flying Blue, taking advantage of the 25% discount for kids under 12. Because they were able to book five economy tickets for just 85,000 points plus taxes/fees, they were able to splurge some on an upgrade to premium economy at check-in. Add in Priority Pass lounge access during their layover (thanks, credit card benefits!) and the whole experience got even better.

Exploring Scotland: The Highlands & Harry Potter Locations

After landing in Edinburgh, Megan and her family hit the road to explore Scotland's most famous sights—including key Harry Potter filming locations at Glencoe, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Loch Shiel.

From Scotland to London: Train Travel & Harry Potter Studio Tour

After road-tripping through Scotland, the family took the train from Edinburgh to London, booking first-class seats for extra space and lounge access. 

London's Harry Potter Activities! Megan's family visited:

• King's Cross Station (Platform 9 ¾) – A must for any fan.
• Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour – The ultimate experience, where her daughter got to open the doors to the Hogwarts Great Hall because it was her birthday! They spent over five hours exploring movie sets, props, and magical effects.

London on Points: Hyatt Regency Blackfriars & The Cursed Child Play

For accommodations, used Hyatt points and the Hyatt Family Plan Rate, getting four nights at the Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars for:
✅ 77,000 points for one room
✅ $700 total for the second room

The hotel's location meant Megan's family got free wristbands allowing access to the prime areas for watching New Year's Eve fireworks over Big Ben and the London Eye!

To top off their trip, they saw Harry Potter and the Cursed Child—a six-hour theater experience that still had the kids completely engaged. Find out what blew Megan away and why going to the play in London is worth traveling for. 

Links For This Episode: 

Pam's Hotel Upgrade Template: Hotel Upgrade Form: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/hotel-upgrade

Links:

• Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:30 – Meet Megan and hear about how this trip came together
• 02:00 – Booking flights on KLM 
• 06:15 – Harry Potter sites in Scotland
• 12:30 – Train to London
• 17:00 – Platform 9 ¾ & the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour
• 25:45 – Staying at Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars
• 33:00 – Seeing The Cursed Child play
• 40:00 – Final thoughts and Megan's tips

If you've ever wanted to take your family on a magical, unforgettable trip, this episode is for you!