If you enjoy a touch of luxury when you get away, thinking about the ideal vacation can conjure up daydreams of sipping champagne by an infinity pool, relaxing in a fluffy hotel robe and slippers, and having someone bring you room service.
The problem is, it’s easy to blow the budget if you enjoy the luxe life when you holiday.
But fear not – if you want to have a little luxury and keep your budget in check, it’s possible with a bit of planning and a few smart swaps. Here’s how to have your best bougie-on-a-budget vacation.
Travel off-peak for peak luxury
One of the easiest ways to cut costs without cutting corners is to travel when no one else is. Off-peak or shoulder season is where the magic happens. That’s the sweet spot between high and low season when prices dip, flights are more reasonable, hotels lower their rates and, as an added bonus, you suddenly have the whole infinity pool to yourself.
Research for savings
As well as checking when the shoulder seasons are for your preferred destinations, find out whether holiday packages are available. You can save a bundle by shopping around for some great deals. Flight and hotel bundles, all-inclusive resort deals, and flash sales can offer some seriously stylish options at very tempting prices, especially if you are flexible with your travel dates.
When looking at flights, the trick is to use flight comparison tools like Hopper or Google Flights to score deals and remember to keep your dates flexible if you can – shifting your flight by a day or two, could provide a significant saving.
And when it comes to finding luxe accommodation for less, sites like Secret Escapes, Luxury Escapes, and even mainstream platforms like Expedia and Booking.com offer luxury hotels for more budget-friendly rates if you keep your eye out.
Choose your destination wisely
Be open minded about your destination. If you’re craving 5-star flair without 5-star prices, consider swapping high-cost locations for equally dreamy destinations that stretch your money further.
Countries with a lower cost of living – like Portugal, Turkey, Vietnam, or parts of Central and South America – offer stunning scenery, luxe accommodations, and culinary experiences…for a fraction of what you’d spend in the likes of London or Rome.
It’s also worth comparing the local currency exchange rate with the Australian dollar as that can have a big impact on your spending power once you’re on holiday.
Dining like a boss (on a budget)
If you like to tickle your tastebuds while on vacation, fine dining doesn’t have to mean blowing half your travel fund on one dinner. Many fine dining restaurants offer a killer ‘prix fixe’ menu at lunchtime – same chefs, same quality, just a little gentler on the wallet. It’s the secret sauce of budget-friendly indulgence.
If you’re feeling extra thrifty, grab some local cheese, crusty bread, and a bottle of local wine from a market. Find a scenic spot – a park, a plaza, a beach – and suddenly you’re having a picnic that feels more like a page out of Gourmet Traveller.
Dial up the wow (just once)
You don’t have to be rolling in cash to do something unforgettable. In fact, splurging on just one extraordinary activity can make your whole trip feel ultra-luxurious.
Maybe it’s a hot air balloon ride over the countryside, a day at a 5-star spa, or dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Pick one “wow” moment and let it elevate the entire vibe of your vacation.
Shorter, bougier breaks = genius
Here’s a sneaky strategy that feels totally luxe: go big but go short. A five-day luxury escape can cost the same – or even less – than a two-week bare-bones trip. Instead of spreading your budget over 14 days of mediocre, pack all the glamour into one glorious long weekend.
Think plush hotel, fancy meals, and one unforgettable experience – all in a bite-sized getaway. You’ll come back glowing, feeling refreshed, and you won’t be broke.
You can absolutely have a 5-star holiday experience without a 5-star price-tag. With a little creativity, timing, and the right attitude, you can swan your way through a holiday that feels more luxurious – without breaking the bank.
So go ahead – book the trip. Live the dream. And toast your budget-savvy brilliance with something bubbly (even if it comes with a twist cap).
