Does Luxury Equal (or) Not Equal Expensive?

When I talk luxury, I don’t mean excessively paying top dollar for everything. It’s how I think of the finer ways to relax and make the most of my vacation. During the year, my family is extremely busy with work and school so when we vacation, we go as luxurious as we can afford.

5 ways to increase luxury value without luxury EXPEnse to your family vacation:​

​Stay in Luxury Hotels: Yes, of course you can. Always my mantra: Plan Ahead, Plan Ahead, Plan Ahead! If you are limited to traveling during school breaks, you know these are the most expensive times to travel. But you can also easily plan ahead. Typically, school calendars come out at least a year in advance, so visit websites or your travel professional (which I admittedly am not) and find a variety of early bird rates for beautiful luxury resorts or cruises.

Already on a luxury cruise? Always book your next one when on board. Often with lower deposits and extra perks like substantial on-board-credits, the savings are fantastic. Even if your plans change, you can easily cancel or modify your reservation. And make sure to keep checking back throughout the year. Most cruise lines and hotels will honor the lowest rate for your stay if you catch it when the price drops. When booking ahead, you’d be surprised how often you can stay at a luxury hotel or go on a luxury cruise for the same cost as a mid-range vacation at the last minute.

Hire Car Service: Is taking car service or a limousine really economical? Absolutely. When planning your vacation, figure out how much your airport parking will cost for the duration of your trip. You might try to save money by parking in the long term lot for less. If so, figure out how much extra time it will take for you to park the car and take the shuttle to the terminal. How about when you arrive back to your car and find it covered in snow or ice and need to clear it off? If you had taken car service, they comfortably drop you off in front of the terminal and help you with luggage, usually for less than you would have paid to park. This also goes for having a rental car versus taking car service to your hotel and then utilizing the complimentary shuttle service during your stay. You are not going to pay for gas or waste time getting lost on unfamiliar roads either. Luxury, ease and saving money...this is the best type of vacation.

Splurge on Food and Drinks:  At home during the year, I limit soda and candy for my kids. But now we are on vacation! For the one or two weeks, a little bit of extra sweets won't hurt and the splurge makes everyone feel a little luxurious. Try that fine dining or specialty restaurant you heard about. We typically save upscale restaurants for birthdays and anniversaries at home, but on vacation you should experience everything.

I also love the opportunity to purchase a drink package when available on a cruise or at a resort. Not only is it seamless since you prepay and don’t have to worry about pulling out your card or money the rest of the time, but it creates independence for kids to be able to go up to a counter or bar and order for themselves. If you get a drink package, enjoy a before or after dinner cocktail. Additionally, many upscale resorts will provide a few perks that can add up to savings. Unlimited lemon-cucumber water in the lobby or those warm, complimentary @DoubleTree chocolate chip cookies will always make you feel special.

Dress Up: Yes, I realize it's vacation and you want to be comfortable. But it's also one of the most family picture taking weeks you may have this year!  Preserve those memories by looking cool and fashionable, while  still relaxed in your beautiful surroundings. I'm not suggesting to wear a gown or tux at the pool, but use your summer vacation as an excuse to buy work or school clothes early. Then you'll get twice the use.

Luxury Does Equal Behavior! Staying at a 5-star resort, dining at a fancy restaurant, or going on an upscale cruise may be a luxury for families, but the benefits are tremendous. Not only is the staff going to be more attentive, but they are also trained to engage your children and treat them well. Just having this comfortable feeling allows your kids to advocate for themselves. When they are able to be more independent, your luxury family vacation just went up a notch. ​That is priceless.