Our travel experts share tips on how to travel luxuriously on a budget.
Thomas Barwick/Getty Images
Luxury travel does not have to break the bank.
We asked ourA-List travel advisorsfor their favorite ways to save money without compromising on experience or style.
Credit:Thomas Barwick/Getty Images
Flip the itinerary.
“Consider reversing the order of destinations that can change the availability and pricing for flights and hotels.
Look into different flying options and lock in the best one possible.
Stay at hotels and resorts midweek, as rates are often lower than weekends.
“Marco Palermo, Authentic Explorations
Reserve an extra night.
Look for stay-for-four/pay-for-three-night deals.
“Alison Nolting, The Africa Adventure Company
Maximize currency.
“Watch exchange rates.
Right now, there’s so much value on luxury itineraries to Australia and New Zealand.
Preplanning and reviewing payment options can really help dramatically lower a trip cost.
“Cassandra Bookholder, Camelback Odyssey Travel
Focus on wildlife.
“Don’t obsess over room categories in wilderness areas.
Your focus should be on exclusivity of access, not the length of the wine list.
Leave splurges on rooming and dining for cities and beaches.
“Chris Liebenberg, Piper & Heath Travel
Pay for a middle seat.
“If you could’t afford business class on an international flight, make your own.
For two travelers, take the three-seat section and pay for the middle seat.
Give yourself room and bring your own special treats.
“Jim Strong, Strong Travel Services
Go during “green season.”
“We highly recommend people travel during whats known as the ‘green season.’
Its when safari camps arent full, and its possible to have an entire camp to yourself.
We call it our ‘secret season.'”
Elizabeth Gordon Halliday, Extraordinary Journeys
Book way in advance.
“Don’t give a shot to economize on a trip-by-trip basis.
“Rob Clabbers, Q Cruise + Travel
Be flexible.
“Flexibility and compromise are key when planning a value-driven safari.
The more flexible you are with travel dates, the better value you’re able to find.
And being willing to compromise opens up more options.
“Jay Parmar, Wander Africa
Share a cabin.
“Lily Bunker, Jacada Travel