Luxury doesn’t always have to mean extravagance. As busy professionals we deserve a break that’s both relaxing and stylish but doesn’t need to break the bank. In this article you’ll discover how to embrace the luxe travel lifestyle without the hefty price tag. Let’s jet off in style without the guilt, but if you are the traveler who prefers extravagance then go off queen we love the energy.
10 tips for curating your luxurious travel style
1. Maximize your frequent flyer or loyalty points
They’re there for a reason and yes you should absolutely use them. Travel for work? Sign up for Marriott Bonvoy and add your member ID to your work bookings so you can rack up your nightly stays, meaning free future stays. Take a vacation once a year? Use a travel credit card to rack up your points on everyday life expenses, better yet one that will give you a sign on bonus. Book yourself a business class seat and get access to the lounge so you can really elevate your travel before you even take off.
If you don’t do these things, you’re basically throwing away money. Also what’s better than getting a VIP treatment without the price tag?
2. Stay in boutique hotels or hotels in the small luxury collection
I love a vibe and small luxury hotels bring it. We love Luxury Collection properties because their service is impeccable, rooms are beautiful, clean, and have perfectly detailed decor. Overall they’re just a step above the rest but the best part is they don’t come with the lofty price tag of some of the major luxury chains. They offer the same high end experience at a fraction of the cost, and honestly staying in a small place has a much homier feel to it, making you feel more VIP just by being there.
3. Pack with investment pieces
Did you know packing light is chic? I know, don’t hate me for it but it’s true. Focus your packing on quality over quantity. A beautiful quality dress paired with some small chic sandals that you can also wear out to lunch, perfect. Your favorite handbag that goes with all of your outfits, bring her and not the 4 beach tote bags you’re trying to decide between. I love a balance of quality items and fun vacation items thrown in that you do not need to spend a fortune on. Places like Zara, HM, and Madewell are favorites for staples while Anthropologie has some fun fabulous pieces that should enhance your wardrobe at home as well as on vacation.
When trying to pack light but also with elegant and luxurious style, aim for neutrals and muted colors with some fun pops of color sprinkled in. A black dress and a white dress are a must. Knits, silk, and flowy linen are materials to aim for.
Here are a few favorites:
Our Guide on Summer Travel Style
4. Choose high quality street wear
Hear me out – I love my Dr. Scholl’s sneakers. Dylan told me not to tell anyone that’s what they are, but I think they’re awesome. They’re cute, super comfy and go with everything. Perfect for travel or walking around days, and the best part is they’re very inexpensive. Don’t pack your strappy heels when you’re walking the cobblestone streets in Italy, you won’t wear them and you’ll regret taking up the space. Opt for some fun sandals, and maybe a pair of comfortable wedges to wear to dinner.
5. Explore during off peak seasons
Those perfect photos you see people post in these glorious locations with no one around, I can guarantee you they’re traveling during the off season. Anyone who’s been to Rome knows if you try to see the Trevi Fountain during the Sumer months and get a picture, well good luck fighting your way through that one. When we say off season I don’t mean try to go to a coastal destination in the winter time, just aim for shoulder seasons where you will probably get arguably better weather AND better pricing than the peak seasons. Also traveling during less popular times will allow you to get more of a local experience and in many cases, better treatment as places are excited to host you.
6. Opt for direct flights on well trusted airlines
I won’t lie our air industry right now needs some love. We’ve talked about this with some of our pilot and flight attendant friends. While air travel is still the safest way to travel, that doesn’t mean you don’t want to do your due diligence. And honestly, we’re all busy, we work hard, just book yourself the direct flight that might be a little more expensive. It will save you time and stress which again is a luxury these days.
Where you’ll want to be flexible of course is when using points to book flights. If you’re booking a business class seat on points and only paying some taxes and fees, that’s luxury enough.
7. Plan your transfers in advance
Get to the airport early and give yourself some time to grab a coffee, read a magazine or get a cocktail (we don’t judge here). Rushing is not luxurious. Similarly plan your hotel transfers in advance. There’s nothing less luxurious than having to figure out a local taxi system when you arrive, and even worse when you have to take multiple lines of public transportation after a long haul flight. Many hotels offer transports and in lots of cases they’re similar cost to what you would pay a taxi.
8. Leverage low cost experiences that exude sophistication
Grab a bottle of wine and make your own snack board while watching the sunset. Walk around museums and explore local art, have coffee in a garden, honestly just walk around and explore the city you’re in. You don’t need to pay for overpriced tourist traps to experience a new place. A lot of the most luxurious items are free.
9. Plan 1-2 non-negotiable high end activities
We work too hard. You can balance the low cost or free options with some higher end activities. Yes, you can go to a Michelin star dinner and yep it’ll cost you a lot but the experience is worth the memories. Book the private sunset boat tour for two, maybe it’s another private experience in a local area compared to a group experience. In some cases you’d be surprised to know the prices aren’t too different. Maybe it’s staying in a very high end hotel and getting room service, we love it. You don’t have to have your entire vacation be high end to feel luxurious. Sometimes picking 1-2 priorities is all we need.
10. Give yourself a day to do nothing
Take the time to slowly sip your coffee in the morning in your robe. Walk around and explore streets you’ve never seen before. Lounge by the pool all day if you feel like it and grab yourself a lunch time cocktail because you have no where to be. Read a book. Give yourself the time to find something joyful to do instead of packing in your itinerary.
11. Do what makes YOU feel luxurious
If you’re excited for a vacation and want that glass of Champagne before you take off, drink it! No it will not kill your jet lag. Do you want to go to a resort and not leave the property? Fully support that. Going on your Honeymoon? Absolutely spoil yourselves for this once in a lifetime trip that you deserve! Do something you wouldn’t ever do at home. Maybe your goal isn’t just to read a book but to actually finish one, I believe in you. Get the massage, just do it. Ultimately it’s all about what makes you feel good and will make you feel fulfilled and refreshed once your vacation is over.
Having a luxurious and sophisticated travel style is the slow, thoughtful, and relaxing choices we make to elevate an otherwise normal experience.
Xo
Holly
