Travel Hacks: 8 Ways To Vacation Like A VIP At A Fraction Of The Cost
Studies have proven that traveling is good for people for a wide variety of reasons. Unfortunately, the reality is that many people can barely afford a staycation, let alone a fancy trip. The good news is that there are many travel hacks that not only help you see the world but also make it possible to have a VIP experience.
1. Use Proven Tricks For Getting Upgraded To First Class
There are several ways to receive a complementary upgrade to first class, but most people do not get to experience this VIP style of travel because they leave everything to chance. Instead of merely hoping for an upgrade, you need to take action! One of the best things that you can do is be friendly and polite to the gate attendants. It is also wise to arrive at the gate as early as possible, and do not hesitate to ask if a first class upgrade is available. Being part of an airline’s frequent-flyer club is another way to increase your odds of getting bumped to first class, especially if you are above the first membership tier.
2. Take Advantage Of Empty Legs For Large Discounts On Private Charters
Have you ever dreamed of chartering a private jet? This is definitely a VIP experience, and it comes with a luxury price tag. While it could be out of reach for budget-conscious individuals, booking an empty leg can make a private charter much more affordable.
An empty leg is an aviation term for flying a plane from one place to another without any passengers on board. This happens when a private charter needs to meet people at an airport other than the one where it is currently located. Budget travelers can save up to 75 percent with an empty leg via services such as Air Charter Service. This will still be more expensive than flying coach, but if you split the cost with several friends, you can fly like a VIP.
3. Utilize Rental Homes To Save Money And Improve Your Travel Experience
Most people assume that hotels and B&Bs offer the most affordable non-hostel lodging worldwide, but this is not always correct. In fact, rental homes such as those found on Airbnb and VRBO are often cheaper and more strategically located. Even if the rental homes in your desired area have pricing that is on par with the local hotels, you will earn the convenience of being able to cook your own meals. This one aspect often makes rental properties a more appealing and cost-effective choice.
4. Lock In VIP Experiences Through Discount Sites
Groupon, Living Social, and other similar online discount sites frequently feature VIP experiences at a dramatically reduced price. For example, NASCAR fans can ride-along or even take the wheel during the Rusty Wallace Racing Experience, which Groupon discounts by up to 55 percent. Doing something of this nature would be a dream come true for many individuals, but the regular price is not very affordable. By turning to an online discount site, you can lock in unusual VIP experiences at a fraction of their original cost.
5. Watch For Flash Sales To Get The Best Airline Prices
Most airlines offer at least one or two flash sales per year, and you may also be able to take advantage of flash sales for hotels and rental cars. The trick is to pay constant attention to your airline of choice because these sales go very quickly. It will also be necessary to choose one of the designated routes to get the often heavily discounted price. In other words, it helps to be flexible with your exact travel dates and the locations you are willing to visit.
6. Choose A Destination With A Good Exchange Rate To Stretch Your Dollar
If you select your destination based on the best possible exchange rate, it is possible to save as much as 50 percent on your basic traveling expenses. Right now, U.S. residents can get the most bang for their buck from desirable destinations such as Canada and South Africa.
7. Use A Traveler’s Credit Card And Join Every Applicable Rewards Program
Getting a traveler’s credit card and combing this with hotel and airfare rewards programs is the best way to leverage your money. Paying for all of your monthly expenses with a traveler’s credit card will enable you to save up enough points to fly for free. Just make sure that you pay off your card monthly to avoid interest fees.
8. Dress The Part
You can improve your odds of getting complimentary upgrades to first class by dressing the part. Even if you are going on vacation instead of traveling for business, it is best to dress as if you are headed to a business meeting. This will not guarantee you an upgrade, but it will make others more likely to treat you like a VIP and give you any potential upgrades or perks.
Now that you know how to enhance your next trip without spending a ton of money, it’s time to start making travel plans! After all, traveling boosts creativity and health, so it is truly one of the best things that you can do for yourself.
Featured photo credit: FirmBee via pixabay.com
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