Traveling in style doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With some insider tips and tricks, you can pamper yourself without breaking the bank. Start by booking an upscale hotel at a discount. Check sites like Hotels.com and Booking.com, which often offer deals up to 60% off. Look for a hotel with premium amenities like a spa, room service and valet parking. Once you’ve booked your room, call the hotel directly to request an upgrade. Politely ask if there are any suites or executive level rooms available for the same rate. You might score a much nicer room at no extra charge.
Skip the rental car and use a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft instead. Not only will you save money on rental fees and parking, but you’ll also have a private driver to shuttle you around. For longer excursions, hire a limo or book a luxury sedan service. Many charge by the hour, not by the number of passengers, so you can split the fare with friends.
Indulge in a fancy meal without the hefty check. Visit a fine-dining restaurant during lunch instead of dinner. You’ll get the same high-quality food, attentive service and elegant ambiance at a fraction of the price. Or try the bar menu, where small plates and appetizers dominate. You can sample a variety of gourmet options without committing to a full, multi-course dinner.
Take advantage of travel perks and loyalty programs. If you frequent a particular airline or hotel chain, cash in your points and miles for a free upgrade or amenity. Some programs offer priority access, VIP lounges, spa credits, wine tastings and more. Even if you’re not a frequent traveler, sign up for the mailing lists of your favorite brands. They often send discount offers and promotional codes for first-class upgrades, resort credits and other luxury freebies.