The beautiful part about travel is it’s truly a choose-your-own-adventure. No two parts of an itinerary are prioritized the same way by vacationers, and for many, this flexibility in customization is inspiring. But, as exciting as having all these options can be, sometimes we need a little guidance about where to focus our funds. While these recommendations may not suit every traveler’s trip style, here are a few areas to consider splurging and saving on in the luxury travel space.
Splurge: Seat Upgrades on Long-Haul Flights
Some globetrotters find seat upgrades to be frivolous, arguing that the flight is only a small part of the larger trip itinerary. Others find it unnecessary to spend extra money on a temporary experience. On paper, this logic makes sense. But to put it in perspective, think about how a typical economy flight goes — the small seats are just uncomfortable enough to keep you fidgeting around; you’re playing elbow tag with your neighbor fighting over the armrest, and the legs slowly stiffen up from the lack of foot space. Sure, most travelers can survive this setup for a couple of hours, but what happens when passengers approach the 10-hour mark? 15? Combine these long distances with time zone changes, and it’s evident how influential the flight is in setting the tone of the trip.
Instead of arriving tired and cranky, explore options in the airline’s business or first class. Large, cushy seats, extra space and first dibs on meal options are a few of the perks passengers are privy to by upgrading their ticket. And, to make the most of this splurge, opt for direct routes or flight paths with the longest leg of the trip occurring first.
Save: Hotels in Destinations Where You’ll Be Gone All Day
Active travelers who love a packed itinerary or are embarking on an excursion-based trip usually find that they spend more time out of their hotel room than in it. A vacationer visiting a bucket-list European destination will likely want to spend the entire day out and about, exploring as much of the city as possible to get the “full experience.” The same could be said of travelers with plans for a ski trip or multi-day hike; they’ll want to spend a good portion of their time doing that activity to make the travel cost worthwhile.
For those adventurers, booking ritzy properties with top-of-the-line amenities isn’t the most cost-effective approach to vacation planning, especially if they have no intention of using those benefits. So, before finalizing the trip details, consider your preferred travel style. Those who simply want a clean place to sleep at night and aren’t interested in state-of-the-art spa features or world-class dining should think about mid-range accommodations and instead redirect that money into more meaningful destination-based experiences.
Splurge: The First and Last Nights
In the same way that the arrival flight sets the tone for the trip, so do the first and last nights. Travelers know the feeling of bubbling excitement they get when they finally touch down, settle into their hotel and officially commence the vacation. The world truly feels limitless, and it’s fun to imagine the positive moments that lie ahead. That same energy and anticipation should be carried into the evening as well to kick off the first day on the right foot. Get adjusted to relaxation mode by spending a little extra on a nice dinner, drinks with top-shelf inclusions or a nearby entertainment experience — it’s a little like indulging in your own welcoming committee.
This mentality also applies to the end of the trip. Travelers have surely had their fun, and with the vacation winding down, it means a luxurious evening is one of the last things they’ll do. Instead of dreading the return home, go out with a bang and make the last night memorable.
Save: Breakfast and Lunch
Breakfast is a hot topic, even outside the vacation context. Some travelers prefer to eat lightly in the mornings, others a hefty spread and a third group skips the meal entirely. In any of these scenarios, spending a pretty penny on a fancy meal first thing in the morning isn’t how most travelers want to operate. It’s far more likely that visitors will get up and explore or start their day with a pre-booked activity, making on-the-go foods and pit stops at the grocery store far more realistic options.
Additionally, lunch is another area to save. Vacationers with an active afternoon planned are looking for convenience, not a two-hour sit-down at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Buying or packing pre-made meals is a popular alternative because it keeps the itinerary moving and can be worked into a seamless day-to-day experience. Should travelers want the dine-in experience at lunch, this is the perfect opportunity to explore local establishments and sample traditional dishes. Save the big, expensive meals for the end of the night when the activities are winding down and guests can enjoy the ambiance without feeling rushed to get to the next thing.
Splurge: Private Transfers to the Hotel
When looking at international arrivals, many visitors will have spent a considerable number of hours on a plane and are itching to get out of the airport. Trying to coordinate a rideshare service pickup or navigate the hassle of public transportation sounds like a nightmare to most, and it’s for this exact reason that private transfers are worth paying top dollar for. Knowing that a car is already waiting also removes any stress about language barriers, allowing travelers to fully acclimate to their surroundings before immersing themselves directly into all the action. It’s safe, convenient and an underrated way to kick off the start of the trip.
Save: Rental Cars in Walkable Cities
It’s tempting, particularly for those who are used to having 24/7 access to a car, but hoofing it in destinations designed for pedestrians can elevate the trip experience to the next level. The expression about how the journey is sometimes more important than the destination accurately describes the number one reason to save on rental cars: walking is immersive.
Many American travelers come from cities or areas that are, at most, mildly walkable, so having the opportunity to indulge in a destination with the infrastructure to support pedestrians is a luxury on its own. Perusing the sidewalks allows visitors to interact with locals, discover new activities to add to the itinerary and try restaurants that weren’t previously on their radar. Some of travel’s best surprises lie in the corners of a destination you happen to stumble upon, and you’ll never know the memories you’re missing out on from the comfort of your car.
Splurge: Experiences or Excursions Defined by the Destination
There are a number of destinations around the world that are defined by a specific experience or excursion that travelers can’t get anywhere else. Whether visitors book the location because they’re aware of that opportunity ahead of time or they happen to add it at the last minute to their itinerary, this is a space well worth splurging on. Instead of visiting the Greek islands via ferry, go ahead and indulge in a private yacht charter. Or maybe vacationers are in Japan for cherry blossom season. A private garden with traditional afternoon tea is a much more memorable experience than strolling on the crowded sidewalks.
Whatever that destination may be known for, creating a larger budget for an elevated version of that experience is something few would regret. Oftentimes, this splurge gets travelers up close to the action and with better perks, lending itself to a far more enjoyable and luxurious experience. After all, if vacationers have traveled far and wide for that one specific activity, why not go all in on it?
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