A Vacation Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive To Be Perfect.
Who says travel has to come with a massive price tag? Some high-end experiences look amazing on the surface but aren’t always worth the splurge. Of course, without sounding hypocritical, have experienced the more expensive side of travel over the years. We certainly don’t do it for every trip. If you want to travel in style without overspending, here are some smart swaps that let you enjoy the best without breaking the bank.
1. Skip First-Class Suites—Go for Business Class
Sure, first-class suites with private doors and caviar service sound fancy, but unless you're on an ultra-long flight, they don’t always justify the cost. Many perks are more about status than actual comfort. Everyone should definitely experience elevated travel, but even in personal experience, I let me loyalty status work in most situations.
What to Do Instead: Business class still gives you a lie-flat bed, great meals, and VIP treatment for a much better price. Often we use points and miles to make it even more affordable. That’s right! If you travel often you build loyalty to an air carrier giving you chances to upgrade for little or no money.
2. Overwater Bungalows? Not Always Worth It
Overwater bungalows in the Maldives look dreamy in photos, but they can be overpriced, lack privacy, and require expensive seaplane transfers. Here’s my disclaimer again, since we have traveled to the Maldives. We saved every credit card point to use for the stay (we actually got an extra night complimentary with the booking so use us so you can take advantage of perks.) We cashed in airline miles, and spend the extra miles for the Qatar Q Suite experience. IT WAS WORTH IT, BUT ISN’T A MUST. In all, we only had to pay for our seaplane, which is required to get to the resort you are booked at. AND! The price of food, and drinks was ASTRONOMICAL.
What to Do Instead: A beachfront villa in places like the Seychelles, Fiji, or Bora Bora offers the same stunning scenery with more space, better value, and fewer extra costs. Even now, all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean are cashing in on bookings because they offer overwater options too.
3. Michelin-Starred Tasting Menus Can Be Overrated
A three-Michelin-star meal sounds amazing—until you're three hours in, still working through tiny courses that cost a fortune. I think everyone should experience it at least once. Alinea in Chicago is still on my bucket list. On a group trip to Greece, we went to Hytra, and we were all blown away. The downfall… it was a 14 course meal paired with cocktails or wine. Even with the smaller portions towards the end I wasn’t even really enjoying the work of the chefs, because I was intoxicated and full.
What to Do Instead: Find upscale local restaurants that focus on incredible food, not just fancy presentation. Some of the best meals come from hidden gems that don’t have a Michelin star but should.
4. High-End Shopping Streets Aren’t Always a Steal
Luxury shopping in places like Rodeo Drive or the Champs-Élysées might sound glamorous, but you’re often paying premium prices for things you could buy at home—plus, you're battling crowds of tourists.
What to Do Instead: Shop where the locals do! Look for tax-free shopping destinations or places known for artisan goods, like handmade leather in Florence or custom jewelry in Santorini.
5. Celebrity-Favorite Can Be Overcrowded. Overpriced
Just because it is a hotspot for A-listers doesn’t mean it’s the best option. Many high-end resorts and restaurants charge crazy rates just for the name, and they can be packed with people. That isn’t always the case though, with a little research can help with your decision making.
What to Do Instead: Boutique luxury hotels or private villa rentals offer more privacy, personalized service, and unique experiences—often at a fraction of the price. Go to an elevated meal once or twice during your trip, but also pepper in a mix of local, small businesses too. Remember, if there is a line… something is good. I see you Pancho’s Tacos.
Travel isn’t about spending the most—it’s about getting the best experience for your money. With a little planning, you can enjoy top-tier travel without overpaying. The key is knowing where to splurge and where to find hidden gems that give you just as much luxury for less.
What’s your favorite luxury experience that didn’t cost a fortune? Let’s chat in the comments!
#TravelForLess #SmartTravel #AffordableLuxury #TravelSmarter#VacationWithLimits #YouCanTravel #MayfieldCoTravel
