When you’re deciding where to splurge and where to save on your adventure, you might feel unsure which luxury purchases will really make a difference in your trip. And which are just a higher price tag without extra value? These are our top 7 upgrades that actually make a difference in the quality of your experience!
Quality luggage
Nothing is worse than dragging around a suitcase with a dodgy wheel. Or finding that you can’t fit quite as much as you thought you could in your old bag. Taking time to compare different brands and splashing out on quality, sturdy luggage will ensure your trip gets off on the right foot. As an added benefit, better quality bags should also last longer.
[Photo Credit: Liz via Shared Adventures]
Flight Upgrade
If you’re flying across the pond on a long-haul flight, consider splurging for premium economy or business class. Having the extra leg room and seat space (or even a lay-flat bed) will help you get some much-needed rest before you hit the ground running. Pro tip: If you don’t want to splurge on both flights, invest in the upgrade for the overnight flight (on the way to Europe, for example) rather than the daytime one.
Small group or private excursions
Sure, you can see famous sites the world over for a small fee. But those low-cost tours may have you feeling more like cattle than a world explorer. With groups as large as 25 -60 travelers, you’ll be shuffled from one site to another. Barely able to hear your guide, and with no opportunity to really connect with them.
Paying the extra cost for a very small group of 10, or even a private tour just for you, is definitely worth the upgrade. You’ll not only be able to ask questions and focus on your specific interests in the sites, but you’ll also have the pleasure of connecting with a local guide. And you’ll get insider tips about your destination. It feels more like sightseeing with a well-educated and knowledgeable friend than taking a tour. And that is so much more pleasant!
[ Ann via Shared Adventures — read about her trip to Tahiti Here! ]
High-quality Footwear
Especially if you’re visiting Europe or other major cities around the world, you’re going to want to do quite a bit of walking. Walking on cobblestones, uneven streets, and plenty of stairs can take a toll on your whole body. So, ensuring that your feet are comfortable and dry will make all the difference in how your body responds to a full itinerary.
A Balcony (even just a French Balcony)
You don’t necessarily need to upgrade to the Penthouse suite, but paying a little extra for even a small balcony can transform your hotel experience. No longer a place to just sleep, your hotel room becomes a place to unwind, relax, and toast to another beautiful day of sightseeing.
[Ann via Shared Adventures]
A Beach Club
If you’re traveling to any coast, spend the extra money on at least one day at a beach club. Beach clubs provide you with lounge chairs, umbrellas, refreshments, and an uncrowded view of the sea. Many of them have lockers where you can put your valuables, and inflatables to enjoy while splashing around in the water. Whether you’re in Mexico, the Caribbean, or along the Mediterranean, the relaxation and peace a beach club provides will improve your vacation. Enjoying the comfort of lounging in a chair or cabana and having a designated space away from your fellow beachgoers will elevate your beach experience in ways you didn’t think possible.
A Waterproof Camera
Whether you go with the classic GoPro, a waterproof case for your phone, or the newest waterproof camera — this is something that will really transform your beach memories. If you’re on a cruise, at the beach, or enjoying an infinity pool, the photos that you can get from a waterproof camera are priceless. Don’t miss out on the magical photo ops that happen in the water just because you don’t have the right electronics.
[Ann via Shared Adventures — read about her Galapagos Trip Here! ]
Are you ready to take an affordable luxury vacation? Let us know! We’re always excited to bring a little luxury to any adventure.