Chynna SymoneOver the years travel has become increasingly accessible to the average American traveler, however luxury travel is still out of budget for most. This blog will go into detail on luxury travel on a budget and how to spend the least but get the absolute most out of your travel experiences.
Plan in Advance!
When it comes to travel, timing is truly everything. You may not be able to have those spontaneous trips, but if you plan months in advance you’ll be able to maximize your discounts. Booking things like flights and hotels in advance (specifically off-season or shoulder seasons) you’ll be able to cut down costs significantly.
If you are looking for a more last minute trip look for hotels that are providing last minute deals or flash sales. Companies like booking.com will do flash sales for specific dates so you may be able to get a great deal!
When it comes to flights everyone knows timing is everything, so that should be your first priority when planning a trip. I advocate for booking directly through airlines, however websites like Skyscanner or Kayak can help you easily compare prices all at once. Some airlines will also do random deals throughout the year so make sure you’re signed up for any email marketing so that you stay ahead of the game!
Think Outside the Box For Accomodations
Everyone knows that hotels will offer deals and websites like booking.com and Kayak can help you compare hotels to get the lowest price. Another important tip is to sign up for loyalty programs with hotels. I rack up all of my Hilton points and I was eventually able to use it for a room upgrade that I didn’t really have to spend extra on!
Another way to get a more luxury experience is to not immediately jump to book at the well known hotels like Hilton or Marriot. Some of my favorite hotel experiences have been at boutique hotels like Monet Garden Hotel in the middle of Amsterdam. It’s a beautiful hotel that didn’t break the bank!
A lot of people are moving away from Airbnb, but when it comes to group trips I’m still a fan! Airbnb has an option called “Luxe” that includes high end amenities, experiences, and furnishings. These properties are higher end and perfect for the couples trip, bachelorette party, family trip, and more!
Book Exclusive Luxury Experiences
If you can’t stay at a luxury hotel one of the best ways to experience luxury travel on a budget is group some luxurious experiences! When traveling with groups it is especially easy to split the cost of activities like private tours, luxury cars, and boat rentals.Â
Also consider the prices of the places you travel to! In the U.S. (NYC area specifically) a day trip to a spa can range from $75-$200+ if you include other services. However, at the Szechenyi Baths in Budapest I spent about 45 euros on entry! Services like massages are about 80 euros which include entry in the price!
Be Smart when You Shop!
If you’re someone who likes to spend on luxury shoes, bags and more I highly recommend doing it in Europe! Designer items are cheaper in Europe because there’s no added fees to ship to America, and as a non-European you are not obligated to pay European taxes.
Don’t forget to keep every receipt and bring it to the airport so that you get your money back from taxes. It was a super easy process and I actually got a form directly from the store that I brought with me to the airport. It only took a few weeks and the money was refunded from the same credit card!
Become a Credit Card Travel Hacker
One thing about me I will never spend full price on any of my flights or hotels! So one thing I always recommend to help with your luxury travel on a budget is to get a travel credit card. As a college student traveling in hostels my first card was the Bank of America Travel Rewards that I actually still use from time to time. It’s a great card for younger people because of the $0 annual fee.
Since then I’ve graduated to the Chase Sapphire Reserve which comes with a host of benefits like global lounge access, DoorDash offers, amazing travel insurance that has saved me multiple times and more. Through their platform you can transfer points to travel partners (like United, Hyatt, or Emirates) and maximize your points. They also will run promos where points are worth more when transferred! Use my referral link for an extra 75,000 bonus points when you sign up for a Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card ($750 value).
Book Travel with a Travel Expert
If you’re new to traveling it can be really intimidating especially if you’re looking for luxury travel on a budget. This is why working with a travel advisory (such as myself) can be super beneficial. Travel advisors have spent years traveling and are happy to share any tips to make sure you have an amazing time. Travel advisors can also book hotels or activities with added bonuses at no extra cost to you! Hotel give us these bonuses to ensure that we keep directing clients to their properties so its a win win for everyone!
In Conclusion
Don’t assume that you can’t have a luxurious experience just because you aren’t a millionaire! If you want to experience luxury travel on a budget just plan ahead, be smart when you shop, consider different hotels, maximize points, and most importantly getting help from a travel advisor!
Comment below and let me know where you’re traveling to next!
