Social media platforms such as Instagram are making luxury travel increasingly desirable, but how affordable is it actually to see the world in style?
Well, perhaps surprisingly it can be done for quite a lot less money than you might think, provided that you go about it in the right way. You might not be able to reach Kardashian-levels of glamour on your holidays, but with a little planning you can certainly feel like it.
Here’s how anyone can travel in luxury on a shoestring budget… 
Travel in Economy
Upgrading to first or business class is seen as a big deal especially when flying, but it’s beyond most people’s budgets. This has led to plenty of tips on how to get yourself an upgrade, such as announcing it’s your honeymoon on arrival at the check-in desk in the hope of finding a sympathetic ear. In fact, first-class travel is rarely worth the money you spend. Sure you’ll have a lot more space to stretch out, better food and maybe a bag of branded toiletries, but is it really a good idea to blow your travel budget on that?
Why not put up with a few hours of relative discomfort in economy class on the plane, or with a regular train carriage, and save your money to spend on your accommodation or experiences while in-resort? The difference in cost between economy and first class will easily cover lots of massages, spa treatments and glasses of champagne when you arrive.
Book Shoulder Seasons
Everyone knows it’s less expensive to travel in low season, luxury or not. But with that you have the risk of poor weather, and many attractions and restaurants may be either closed or on reduced hours due to the lack of business, depending where you go.
Shoulder seasons, however, such as October, are often a very good bet. Falling between the end of high season and the start of low season, or vice versa, not only do they usually offer lower prices, but the crowds tend to be much thinner in popular destinations. If you can travel during these periods, and don’t mind taking a small chance with the weather, then you can find luxury for less by doing so.
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Avoid all-inclusive packages
All-inclusive deals in resorts and hotels give you convenience, but they can cost you a bundle of cash as well. They also often mean less money reaching the local economy. A good alternative is to opt for a luxury B&B, or a hotel near plenty of good restaurants. That way you can eat where the locals eat, or prepare your own meals, saving money but still getting that five-star high life at your accommodation.
Look for Flash Sales
The pricier an accommodation is, the harder it can be to fill it, especially as the market becomes more competitive in popular areas. So many luxury hotels and resorts are often left with empty beds they need to fill, providing opportunities for the savvy shoestring traveller. Flash sales, with drastically cut prices available to those able to go at short-notice, can commonly be found on travel portals and are well worth keeping an eye out for. Just make sure your passport is up to date and you’re ready to leave in a rush.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate a little
In a similar vein to the above piece of advice, but only possible if you’re booking direct, is trying to barter with the owner or manager of a hotel for a better rate. So long as you’re friendly and honest, they may be prepared to reduce their prices a little in return for a guaranteed booking, particularly if it’s on dates they struggle to fill.
What is luxury to you?
Everyone has a different idea of luxury. For some it’s pampering spa sessions, dreamy ocean views and gourmet food. For others it’s seclusion, or a wide variety of exciting experiences to try. If you’re happy with more basic accommodation then you might save money on that in order to eat out well every day, while if you don’t mind not having a room with a view then you could stay in your ideal hotel for much less. As famed travel blogger Nomadic Matt explains, prioritizing your spending enables you to splurge on luxuries that are important to you.