Luxury travel doesn’t have to cost the world. You don’t necessarily need to spend lots of money to get the most out of a luxury vacation, though having sufficient funds is important. There are a few simple steps that you can take that will help you make the most of your vacation and ensure that it is as luxurious as possible.
What is most important is that you do and experience the things that matter most to you. For some people, that may mean compromising on some aspects of the vacation so that you can spend more on other parts that will mean the most to you.
1. Be Flexible With The Dates
The time of year you plan your trip can make a huge difference to the prices you will pay. Research the busiest seasons in the country you’re heading to and see if you can book your trip to avoid these times.
Most often, peak seasons are during the summer months and during the Christmas season. If you can avoid the busiest seasons, you will often get much better deals on accommodation and activities while you’re there.
2. Look For The Best Value Currency Exchange
Changing money is another area of travel that can get pretty costly. You should look around for the best deal – avoid using the first place you find. There are plenty of tools and online sites that can help you find the best currency conversion possible.
It is also a good idea to look at where you will get the most for your money, so weigh the cost of living and how far your cash will stretch when deciding on your destination.
3. Avoid Checking In Luggage On Flights
Checking in luggage on flights can raise the cost of travel significantly. If you can, it is a good idea to try to bring only what you can fit into a carry-on. This may seem like a tall order, but with some creative packing and smart fashion choices, it can be done.
4. Choose Affordable Luxury Destinations
You will be able to save money with your vacation by choosing luxury destinations that are affordable. There are plenty of destinations that could be of interest that you may not have even considered.
Vancouver, for example, has many luxury hotels and resorts on offer, as well as many luxe things to do across the city, such as charting a yacht and exploring Howe Sound. You can save money further when looking to travel to destinations such as Vancouver, by choosing to take a train rather than a plane. This Seattle to Vancouver, BC service from Wanderu is a perfect example of what to look for, giving passengers a cheap, comfortable experience to reach the luxurious city.
5. Research Meal Offers And Discounts
Most restaurants offer cheaper deals at different points in the day. If fine dining is high up on your list of essentials for a luxury trip, then you should start researching restaurants and find out what kind of deals they offer. For instance, many restaurants have a cheaper lunch menu or discounted meals on certain days of the week.
6. Take Free Walking Tours
Travel is all about exploration, and finding ways to explore the world that don’t cost too much is crucial. Fortunately, many cities have free walking tours that can be perfect for learning more about the city you’re visiting.
These typically end with a request for a donation to help them continue funding the walking tour, but this is optional. Walking tours are often several hours long, making them a perfect option for any thrifty traveler.
7. Put Your Smartphone Away
It is always tempting to update social media with pictures and videos of your latest adventures. Unfortunately, roaming charges can make this desire a costly one.
It is best to leave updating your status until you have access to free Wi-Fi to avoid charges that could be steep. This will also help you stay in the moment and truly immerse yourself in the culture of the place you’re visiting.
8. Make Some Of Your Own Meals
Eating out every day is a lot of people’s idea of luxury. Over a vacation, this can become pricy, so it is best to be sparing with when you eat out. Making your own food gives you the opportunity to learn more about the cuisine of your destination and experience life like a true local.
Do some homework before you set off and learn the best things you can make. This might be trickier for people staying in hotels or hostels, which may have limited options for cooking, but with a bit of imagination, you can still come up with something delicious.
Conclusion
There’s no rule that says that luxury has to come with a steep price tag. Taking some of these tips, you can achieve the best and most luxurious travel experience without breaking the bank. Before your trip, consider doing some research to find the best possible ways to make luxury travel work for you. Don’t be afraid to try alternative transport or accommodation options that might help you save money for the things that will give you the best experience.
