Let us tell you a little secret: luxury travel doesn't have to cost a fortune! Does it sound too good to be true? Well then, let us say it again: epic trips to outstanding destinations are possible on a budget.
Sure, you may not be able to tick all the boxes of your luxury travel dream. But that doesn't mean you can't have the absolute best experience ever. In this blog, we share seven hacks to help you make your dream a reality.
Research is essential when it comes to luxury travel on a budget. This includes everything from choosing the destination to planning the itinerary and booking your flight and accommodation. If you want to make the most of your luxurious trip, you should research as much as possible. Sure, it may seem easier to turn to a travel agent, but it's more costly than if you do it yourself. And the goal here is to save money, right?
Plus, researching for your trip can be pretty fun. You can look through travel articles and guidebooks for information and inspiration. Also, it may help to look at itineraries that tour companies offer, as they can give you an idea of what is doable.
Supposing you already figured out your travel destination and the dates of the departure, it's always a good idea to plan ahead. Many luxury travel websites provide last-minute deals, so if you book early, you will likely get the best deal.
If you want a luxurious trip for the best value, booking in advance is best. This saves you money on flights and accommodation, which is key to affordable luxury travel. There is a significant difference when you book a flight or a hotel 45 to 60 days before your trip. Also, it's best to book on weekdays instead of weekends as it is much cheaper. When planning, you should also consider the means of transportation. If you want to save money on your trip, you can travel by train. Going by train is pretty affordable, as you can get the ticket at a lower price if you book it in advance. For instance, if you choose Antwerp as your travel destination, it is possible to travel comfortably without spending too much money. You can take the train to Antwerp and enjoy a comfortable and fast journey.
Travel tends to be more expensive during peak times, such as holidays. Therefore, if you're looking to reduce the costs, it's best to travel off-season. This will help you save money on hotels, flights, food and other activities.
Moreover, it will also help you avoid huge crowds, as there are fewer tourists around. This can be a great advantage – especially for those who don't enjoy being surrounded by so many people at once!
Flying isn't the only option for traveling from one place to another. You can always go by train and enjoy the trip just as much as you would if you went by plane. Plus, train travel is more eco-friendly and less stressful! The good news is that if you buy tickets early, you can get them at a lower price. Belgium is one of the most affordable destinations for luxury travel, more specifically Brussels. It is a super diverse city, full of goodness and fun. And you don't want to miss the tasty chocolate and chips! Alternatively, you can go to Antwerp. The city is progressive and has an incredible history worth discovering. Plus, it has got some of the best snacks in the world!
Once you arrive in Antwerp, you can make the most of luxury travel by visiting the zoo and the shops and taking a boat trip. And of course, you shouldn't leave Antwerp before visiting the diamond museum! So, what are you waiting for? Take the Antwerp train and get ready for a memorable and exciting adventure!
We know what you may be thinking; how can this even be a tip for traveling on a budget? While it seems counterintuitive, staying longer can considerably reduce your trip's costs. You'll be able to save money because you can access discounted nightly rates for hostel pricing or Airbnb, for instance.
Plus, staying longer in a place means you can also set your vacation meal plan and start cooking yourself instead of eating out all the time. Who knows? You may even fall in love with this lifestyle so much that you'll want to become a digital nomad! That way, luxury traveling can become even more accessible as you earn money while traveling.
Here's the thing: accommodation plays a significant role in your travel experience. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to save money on accommodation. One idea is to alternate luxury hotels with affordable ones. Or you can consider staying at a boutique hotel, as they provide intimacy and excellent service. They have character and cost considerably less than 5-star chain hotels.
Another idea you may want to consider is renting an apartment, as they are less costly than hotels and can be a great choice if you want to stay somewhere for a longer period. Platforms like Airbnb are well-known among travelers, but sites like Booking also provide a selection of rental properties.
Food is another factor to consider when going on a luxurious trip. If you want to eat at a fancy restaurant but can't afford to have dinner, you can dine there at lunchtime instead. Several restaurants provide a fixed-price menu, which often costs less than the dinner menu. You may have fewer options, but the food quality is likely the same.
Another option is to eat at the bar, as some restaurants offer affordable menus while ensuring the food is delicious. Keep in mind that location matters significantly when it comes to the price of the food. To get the best value meal, you should dine in less-central neighborhoods, as the rents establishments pay there tend to be lower.
You don’t have to break the bank to experience a luxurious trip. With these tips, you can reduce costs and make the most of your journey. The secret is to plan ahead so that you have enough time to get the best deals and save money where you can, including accommodation, food and transportation.
