Last Updated: 17 Oct 2024
While everyone loves a good bargain, spending a bit more on your travel experience can sometimes make a huge difference. Holiday splurgers often think of it as an investment in themselves that lets them return feeling refreshed, energised, and ready to take on whatever comes next.
In this blog, we've gathered some of the top indulgences travellers swear by and tips to ensure you get the most value out of each.
Flight Upgrades
Upgrading to a Business or First Class cabin is a top priority for many travellers, especially on long-haul flights. The benefits are undeniable:
- Extra Legroom: More space to stretch out, especially beneficial on longer flights.
- Lie-flat Beds: Seats that convert into fully flat beds for a more restful sleep.
- Gourmet Meals: High-quality meals prepared by top chefs, complemented by a selection of premium beverages.
- Priority Boarding: For more time to settle in and relax before take-off.
- Airport Lounges: Access to luxurious airport lounges worldwide for a comfortable space to relax, work, or dine before the flight.
- Dedicated Check-in: A special check-in area to avoid the crowds and queues.
- Increased Baggage Allowance: Passengers can bring more luggage without incurring extra fees, suitable for extended trips.
- Attentive Onboard Service: Personalised service from attentive cabin crew.
We can see why this is a popular splurge for cash fare travellers and those using British Airways reward flights, as premium cabin redemptions with Avios points can provide great value. Splurging on a Business Class flight might even save you money in the long run by maximising your points.
Our Tip: When using your Avios points, always compare the Avios cost of Business Class to Economy alongside the cash fare cost. Aim to get at least 1p per 1 Avios point for the best value. Check the BA reward flight finder for opportunities to redeem your points.
Childcare for Adult Downtime
A holiday isn't truly relaxing unless everyone gets to unwind — including the parents. Splurging on a hotel with a kid's club or childcare services might seem like an added expense, but it's a worthwhile investment. Many hotels and resorts provide these services for free, allowing parents to relax by the pool, explore the destination, or enjoy a quiet meal while their children are happily entertained.
Our Tip: Before booking, search online for reviews that mention childcare and kids' club options. TripAdvisor is an excellent resource for finding firsthand experiences.
Remote Destinations
For some, the ultimate splurge is choosing a destination where you can completely disconnect from the world. Remote, luxury holiday destinations like the Maldives, the Bahamas, or Turks and Caicos are full of serene beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exclusive resorts that promise a true escape from daily life. These are the places where time slows down, and relaxation becomes a way of life.
Tip: Ask friends and family for recommendations if they've visited similar destinations. Independent boutique accommodation agents or websites like Airbnb can help you find the perfect secluded retreat.
All-Inclusive Packages
All-inclusive holidays at luxury or fly-and-flop resorts can seem like a steep upfront investment, but they're ideal for travellers looking for convenience. With meals, drinks, and activities included, you won't have to worry about budgeting for food or finding restaurants. Many travellers like to supplement their stay by trying local cuisine outside the resort, so you get the best of both worlds.
Tip: Read reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor to learn more about the quality of the all-inclusive service at your chosen resort. This ensures that what's included matches your expectations and that the experience is worth the price.
Hotel Hopping for a Taste of Luxury
If staying at a luxury hotel for the entire trip isn't feasible, many travellers turn to hotel hopping to enjoy upscale amenities without the sustained high cost. This means you can visit high-end hotels to use their spas, restaurants, and bars on a pay-as-you-go-basis without booking overnight stays. This is especially popular in cities like New York, Dubai, and Bangkok, where luxury hotels are a major draw for tourists.
Tip: Plan an itinerary that includes your must-visit hotels and experiences. Make a list of the places where you want to dine, relax, or indulge in a spa day to make the most of your trip while sticking to your budget.
Private Tours for a Personalised Experience
Not everyone loves group tours or mapping out every stop on their own. But even for the most independent spirits, there’s real value in private tours. They’re a fantastic splurge for travellers who want to explore new destinations with a customised itinerary. You get a personal guide who can focus on what you're interested in, answer all your questions, and even change the plan to include what you want to do.
Whether it's an African safari, the temples of Greece, or the streets of India, a private tour guide can provide skip-the-crowds tickets, fast-track entry to attractions, and a more tailored journey that suits your interests.
Tip: Book your private tours using platforms like Get Your Guide, Viator, or Tour Scanner. Read reviews before committing, and only choose a private guide when you're truly passionate about the experience.
Lavish Hotels
Ever since the world started opening up post-pandemic, a lot of travellers have been swinging for the fences with their vacation plans and embracing the "you only live once" mentality. They’re choosing the most luxurious hotels they can find, ready to spend a good chunk of their holiday budget on plush rooms with high-end amenities. After being cooped up for so long, these hotels provide an indulgent escape that many feel is worth the splurge.
Tip: When splurging on a luxury hotel, always compare prices on platforms like Trivago or Travel Supermarket to ensure you get the best deal. Checking online reviews also helps confirm that the facilities and services match your expectations.
Conclusion
Whether you’re trying to find out how to get cheap Business Class flights using the BA reward flight finder or dreaming of staying at one of the world's luxury holiday destinations, the key is to spend smartly. Research, plan, and be selective about where you choose to splurge. These investments can make a massive difference in how enjoyable and relaxing your holiday will be.