Luxury Travel on a Budget

Most people associate luxury with wealth and an abundance of cash flow. I used to believe that you need a generous amount of money to afford the luxuries of life. Now, while that may be true in some instances, luxury travel is not one of them.

a private jet dinner with Veuve Clicquot

First, let's define luxury. According to Merriam-Webster, luxury is a condition of abundance or great ease and comfort. It can also be defined as something that gives you pleasure or an advantage that you do not usually have. Certain definitions of luxury are frequently categorized according to cost. This focus on expense can make the divide between rich and poor worse and discourage those who don’t have a lot of money. While some people see luxury as only for the rich, I’ve discovered it's about how you experience comfort and pleasure, regardless of your bank account.

Everyday I'm learning to redefine what luxury and wealth mean. I am on my way to becoming a multi-millionaire, but right now I'm living on good vibes and setting clear intentions about the life I feel worthy of living. Even while I’m working toward that goal, I’ve learned that you can still enjoy luxury experiences today, without waiting to be financially wealthy.

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So, whether you’re saving up or just starting out, here are some ways to experience luxury travel that fit your budget and your current lifestyle—No credit card required!

1. Define what luxury looks like to you.

   Does luxury mean flying business and first class? Staying at the highest-rated accommodation? Indulging in a full-course meal at the latest Michelin restaurant? Or access to a variety of wellness-focused self care like a day at The Palmer House Spa? Defining your own idea of luxury will help you to plan a trip that reflects your vision.

   

   A spa day at the Palmer House with a customized facial and bubbly

2. Search destinations that offer affordable luxury.

   Popular destinations like Bali, Thailand, Medellin, and Portugal are known for their five-star accommodations, dining, and elevated local experiences at a three-star price tag. But don't sleep on lesser known places like Lake Atitlán and Tbilisi which offers a unique variety of luxury experiences and excursions at a fraction of the cost.

   

   A luxury hotel in Indonesia displaying beautiful orange decor

3. Travel during the off peak season.

   Everyone's on holiday during the summer and around Christmas and New Year. Research the slow season of travel for your desired destination and compare the price to the most popular times to see the difference in price. Of course Barcelona streets will be flooded with tourists enjoying the Mediterranean sea during the months of June to August. Try for February to April or September to November for a more authentic, less crowded experience. You will often find better flight deals and your ideal accommodations at a better rate.

   
   

4. Hunt for flash sales and last-minute deals

   Many airlines offer flash sales for one-way and roundtrip travel. Some travelers exclusively travel using last minute deals which definitely requires some spontaneity and extra planning. Another tip is to buy your flight directly at the ticket counter, saving you money on extra fees. When searching flights, use a private browser to get the best rates. Vacation and flight trackers like SkyScanner and Hopper are very helpful when searching for the best time to book. When booking international travel, don’t overlook local airlines—they often offer great fares and may coordinate with U.S. carriers.

   
   

5. Pack smart and travel light.

   Packing smart and traveling light has really changed how I experience travel, and it can do the same for you. When packing, there are a few essentials I never travel without—especially this steel gua sha tool which keeps me looking and feeling my best, no matter where my adventures take me. By traveling light you avoid checked-bag fees and create more space in your budget for little luxuries along the way.

   Traveling light also makes navigating airports, trains, and hotels much easier, so you can focus on enjoying the trip rather than dealing with heavy luggage. The freedom to move quickly and stress-free means we can take advantage of spontaneous opportunities, making the entire journey feel more luxurious.

   

   A woman sitting on a bed packing a suitcase

That’s my go-to list for experiencing luxury travel, even while my bank account is still catching up to my dreams. I’m practicing traveling with intention and strategy so I can enjoy the finer things right now. From packing smart and traveling light to finding flight deals and prioritizing experiences that truly bring joy, these tips show that luxury doesn’t have to wait. By making thoughtful choices and staying resourceful, you can create trips that feel indulgent, effortless, and completely your own—starting today.