Do you often fantasize about traveling to a far-off destination? Maybe you see images of Greece, Italy, London, Canada, Mexico, or Brazil and picture yourself fully immersed in the experience. Although domestic travel can be fun, exciting, and entertaining, there’s something about international travel that adds a level of luxury, sophistication, and class. However, most people assume that any trip that requires a passport is too expensive.
There’s no denying that international travel is costly, especially if you want a luxurious experience. Some tourists spend tens of thousands of dollars on everything from airline tickets and baggage fees to hotel accommodations and entertainment. However, it’s possible to cultivate the same experience on a lesser budget. Continue reading for tips.
Select An Obscure Destination
Your travel destination plays a substantial role in the overall cost of your trip. While many people flock to popular locations, they’re likely to pay more for their vacation. Therefore, choosing an obscure place to visit on your international getaway is best. Don’t let this discourage you, as there are plenty of little-known luxury destinations that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Bangkok, Brussels, Verona, and Berlin are all fantastic places to visit.
Consider Exchange Rates
Another way to decide on your luxury travel destination is to evaluate exchange rates. Ultimately, your home country’s currency could be worth more somewhere else. For instance, if you live in the US, the US dollar goes further in Portugal, Tunisia, Spain, Peru, and South Africa. Traveling to these destinations will give you more bang for your buck.
Timing Is Everything
The next step is to decide when you will leave for vacation. Planning a trip during national holidays may seem ideal because you won’t have to take time off work. You might consider going during spring break or summertime because the kids are out of school. Although these are practical concepts, you should expect to pay more for your luxury international trip.
As everyone has a similar thought process, these are peak travel times, meaning the hospitality and tourism industry will charge more for everything from plane tickets and hotel rooms to meals and entertainment. You can find fantastic deals by switching your vacation dates to a less-popular time of year. Not to mention, accommodation availability will increase while crowds decrease.
Search For Cheap Luxury Flights
Once you’ve decided on a destination and travel date, it’s time to book a flight. Unfortunately, airline tickets can take a substantial chunk of your travel budget. Luckily, there are some things you can do to find great deals. For example? Did you know that you could get international business and first-class tickets for 30-70% off? You can learn more here. You can also save on flights by choosing an off-peak time or traveling mid-week.
Check For Hotel Packages
Vacation packages can help you save hundreds of dollars on your luxury international getaway. All-inclusive resorts, for instance, offer one nightly rate, which includes the room, meals, and free activities. Vacation booking sites allow travelers to bundle the cost of their flight, hotel, and rental car for a sizable discount. Some vacation packages even include free admission tickets to nearby attractions. Lastly, consider taking a cruise, as they often have excellent rates that include everything you need to have a good time.
Try An AirBnB
Another way to save on accommodations is to search for independent vacation rentals such as those found on sites like Airbnb. Many people have second homes that they rent out to tourists that cost a lot less than a hotel stay. Not to mention, vacation rentals often have everything you need, including multiple bedrooms, a living room, a bathroom, and a fully-equipped kitchen. If you’re lucky, you can find a place with a swimming pool or outdoor living space to enjoy.
Eat At Your Hotel
While part of the thrill of traveling is indulging in delicious foods, dining out three times a day throughout your trip is expensive. Prioritize experiences and entertainment over eating out and save money in the process. When you arrive at your travel destination, head to a nearby grocery store, deli, or street market to purchase some staple foods. You could eat breakfast and dinner at the hotel and enjoy lunch at a nice restaurant to switch things up.
Use Public Transportation
Why spend hundreds of dollars on a car rental, insurance, and gas, when you could use public transportation? Ask the hotel clerk or a local for the bus, train, subway, or trolley schedule and find activities along those routes to keep you entertained. If public transportation isn’t an option, taxi or rideshare services may be available.
Don’t let a limited budget prevent you from seeing all the world has to offer. Believe it or not, you can plan a luxury travel vacation without breaking the bank. Use the tips above to find substantial savings and use the extra funds to invest in fun activities that will create memories that last a lifetime.