Exploring the world outside your bubble is a luxury that you should treat yourself to every once in awhile. Whether that means hopping on a plane or a bus, or driving in your car, it’s about taking yourself out of your comfort zone and discovering things beyond what you are familiar with. But as rewarding as these experiences are, travel is not accessible to everyone, as reiterated by Travzzle. And for those that can, they still have their limitations as they learn to travel as light as possible, jumping from couch to couch for free accommodation, and buying groceries to avoid the extra costs of eating out.
Unfortunately, most of us can only dream of staying in 7-star hotels or spending the summer on a lavish Mediterranean cruise. The only people who can spend all that money without thinking twice about their budget are those that never fly commercial or have the capacity to rent out the entire cruise ship. Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Steve Jobs and number 35 on Forbes 400 richest Americans showcased on a video on The Scene that she doesn’t have just one, but two private jets, as well as a 260-foot superyacht. Thus, if anyone knows how to travel in style, it’s definitely her.
But contrary to popular belief, it is possible to live the good life while adventuring abroad. Despite what the term implies, luxury travel doesn’t have to be as expensive as we make it out to be. Here’s what you can do to upgrade your holidays:
1. Sign up for a credit card with a travel points program
As The Simple Dollar points out, there are tons of credit card programs out there that can help you save on flights, hotels etc. Depending on the company or rewards program, you’ll also be entitled to discounts at certain establishments and exclusive membership deals. All you have to do is charge your daily expenses on your card and pay your bills on time to rack up those travel points.
2. Lead a “less is more” lifestyle
While some everyday purchases are necessities, some things are out of impulse or luxuries you can do without. The very act of decluttering can help you weed out the expenses you can do without. Minimalism is key in saving extra cash from unnecessary things like manis and pedis or weekly shopping trips.
3. Look the part
As superficial as it sounds, dressing the part can make all the difference in the way that hotel employees and airport staff treat you. Swapping yoga pants and a tee for black culottes and a white silk blouse will instantly make you look and feel like a VIP when checking into your accommodation. This also applies at the airport. Bankrate indicates that on top of dressing well, treating airport staff well will also increase the chances of a seat upgrade if you ask for one.
And of course, follow these tips in addition to our 11 Ways to Save Money When Traveling, and you’ll get to go on the trip of your dreams.