How I’m Chasing BOYNEXTDOOR Across Asia Using Credit Card Points (Even on a Bento Budget)

By Broke Bento Fangirl

If you told me last year that I'd be planning a trip to Korea to see BOYNEXTDOOR live without going broke, I’d probably laugh while clutching my instant ramen cup. But here we are. I’m not rich, I don’t have airline status, and I definitely don’t own a fancy suitcase — but I do have points. And a plan.

The Dream (and the Budget)

Like many fangirls, I’ve spent hours watching concert clips and fan cams, dreaming about being front row in Seoul. But flights? Hotels? Tickets? That felt impossible. As someone who grew up learning how to stretch every dollar, spending thousands on a “dream trip” wasn’t in the cards — literally.

Until I found out it actually could be.

How I Discovered Travel Hacking

One day, while watching K-pop content and crying over plane ticket prices, I stumbled across a blog talking about credit card rewards. I was skeptical. But the more I read, the more I realized this was how people — even broke ones — were flying for free(ish).

I applied for my first travel card (don’t worry, I’ll share beginner-friendly ones here), met the welcome bonus, and soon had enough points for a free one-way ticket to Seoul. I cried. Then I kept learning.

Travel Hacking 101 (Bento Budget Edition)
If you're like me and new to this, here are some beginner tips:

✅ Start with ONE beginner travel card – Look for low annual fees and easy welcome bonuses. Some give you $600+ in value just for signing up and hitting a spend.
🛒 Use the card on everyday essentials – Groceries, gas, subscriptions, bills — every swipe adds up.
💳 Never spend more than you have – Points are great, but credit card debt is not the move.
✈️ Stack with airline/hotel deals – Use your points during sales for more value.
🎟️ Set alerts for concerts – Once you’re close to your goal, be ready to strike when your idols announce a tour.

What I’ve Learned So Far

I’m still learning. I still use coupons and compare noodle prices at H-Mart. But I also now know I don’t have to give up my dream — I just have to plan better.

If you're chasing a dream — whether it's BOYNEXTDOOR, a cherry blossom trip, or just a break from burnout — you can do it too. And I’ll show you how.

Want to get started?