Dreaming of sipping champagne poolside, enjoying ocean views from your hotel balcony, or flying first class, but feel like it’s out of your budget? Believe it or not, luxury travel is within reach, and is something that you can experience while on your next vacation. There are so many ways that you can experience luxury without breaking the bank, and we’re here to share some tips that will help you do so.
Curious how to make it happen? From traveling during the off-season to checking for upgrades and more, here’s how you can score deals on 5-star experiences.
Be Flexible With Your Dates
One thing that you can do to get deals on luxury travel is to vacation during the off season, and be flexible with your dates. Visiting popular destinations during busy times of the year isn’t going to help you get discounts on hotels or first class flights. Instead, plan your trip when not as many people are traveling.
For example, trying to go on a trip during summer break or around the holidays isn’t the best idea. This means that there will be higher demand for things, and you most likely won’t be able to score any deals. However, if you go during the down times of the year when things aren’t so busy, you should find some good discounts on luxury travel accommodations, flights, and even restaurants. Doing your research ahead of time and understanding when your destination is crowded could end up saving you a lot of money in the long run.
Bonus tip: Use a site like Hopper to see when flights are the least expensive throughout the year.
Join Loyalty Programs
Loyalty programs can earn you a lot of points, and allow you to upgrade to nice hotel rooms or first-class airplane tickets at a fraction of the cost. If there’s a certain airline you always use or a hotel chain that you frequently stay at, consider signing up for their rewards program so that you can earn points. Once you have accumulated enough points, you can then use them to get free hotel rooms or airline tickets, including luxury options.
Though it can take time to get enough points, you eventually will be able to redeem them for some incredible upgrades. Our team is well versed when it comes to travel loyalty programs, and frequently utilize the points we earn. You’d be surprised at the amazing things you can use your points for!
Bonus tip: Download your chosen loyalty program’s mobile app to track your progress.
Check For Upgrades
When you first make your travel plans, spending money on a suite or first-class airline ticket may not be in your budget. However, you may be able to score an upgrade once you arrive at the airport or your hotel, and all you need to do is ask. Asking for an upgrade is a great way to see what’s still available, and they may be able to give you a free upgraded room or airplane seat. Even if you can’t get the upgrade free, they could possibly offer you a major discount. When in doubt, always ask to see what upgrades you can get – the worst they can say is that nothing is available!
Bonus tip: Call ahead to ask for upgrades AND ask for them in person. An option that isn’t available right now may be available when you arrive.
Choose Your Dining Times Wisely
One of the best parts about traveling is getting to try all of the delicious foods that your destination has to offer. Though some of the most talked about restaurants can cost you a lot of money to dine at. If you want to try some of the restaurants that are getting the most buzz, there is a way that you can enjoy a tasty meal without having to spend a lot of money – rather than making reservations for dinner, go and eat closer to lunchtime.
Restaurants often have similar menus at night and during the day, but offer cheaper pricing for lunch. This way, you can still sample most (if not everything) that the establishment has to offer, without having to pay full price. Additionally, some cities around the world will host a “restaurant week” where many of the restaurants will offer a special sampling menu at a fraction of the cost.
Bonus tip: Drinks at fancy restaurants can be very expensive. Stick with water if you want to save a few bucks.
Look For Vacation Packages
Vacation packages allow you to book a flight, hotel, and car rental all at the same time, while saving some serious money in the process. The best part is that you can typically choose what type of package you want. For example, if you want to splurge on a hotel room but want to fly economy and get the cheapest rental car possible, you can. Mix and match all of your options until you’ve planned the perfect trip for you and your group. Some companies that offer vacation packages include Costco Travel, Delta Vacations, KAYAK, and American Airlines Vacations.
Bonus tip: Do your research and see which company offers the best deals on vacation packages.
Ready to book your luxury international trip? Let us help you obtain your passport! We are a leader in the passport industry, and would be happy to help you get a passport for your upcoming trip. To get started, visit our website and fill out your application. Then, once your passport has been processed, we will send it directly to you so that you can go on a trip of a lifetime. Additionally, if you have any questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to contact us. No matter where you’re going, we’ll get you there!
