Every trip has a set budget, regardless of one's financial situation. However, having a budget doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the quality of your vacation experience.
Occasionally, it can be worthwhile to spend a bit more to make the most of your trip. Even better, you might be able to find upgrades without any additional cost or for much less than expected. Here are 5 upgrades you should think about for your next trip. Let's dive in!
So what upgrades could you actually make to your next journey?
1. Inquire about improving your flight experience
Source: Oleksandr P/Pexels
Many airlines provide various options to upgrade your ticket on the same day, though the availability may vary when you check in. When you arrive to check in for your flight, you can inquire if any upgrades are available. The worst outcome is that the answer will be "no". However, you might be able to secure an upgrade to a higher class seat or at least a better seat within your current class.
This opportunity isn't limited to just the flight you're about to board. Check-in agents can sometimes upgrade you for your connecting flights as well. If you're lucky, they may even be able to upgrade you for your return trip.
Regardless of whether you end up in first-class or not, it's also worth considering upgrading your boarding position. Certain airlines will allow you to pay a small additional fee to board the plane earlier. For example, Southwest Airlines offers the option to upgrade to one of the first 15 boarding positions for as little as $30. If you're concerned about getting your carry-on luggage on the plane, paying for the upgraded boarding can help alleviate your stress and make your travel experience smoother.
2. Explore the airport's exclusive lounge
Source: mark chaves/Unsplash
If you're accustomed to flying first-class, you're likely familiar with the airport lounge. The lounge isn't exclusive to first-class passengers, so it's an easy way to make a lengthy wait at the airport much more pleasant.
Many airlines offer a one-day pass to their lounges, with prices ranging from $60 to as little as $25. For the price, you'll usually get a complimentary meal, a cocktail, and a much more comfortable place to sit compared to the standard seating areas in most airports.
If you're facing a long layover, this could transform it from a hassle into an enjoyable experience. If you can't obtain a pass through your airline, check what special offers your credit card company might have. Many cards have partnerships with airlines to provide you access to lounges.
3. Pack a cocktail kit
Source: Andres Haro Dominguez/Unsplash
Even in first-class cabins, the alcoholic beverages offered on flights may not be as fancy as they once were, in most cases. Regardless of your seat location, a cocktail kit can elevate the rather basic miniature liquor bottles available on a flight into a much more enjoyable drinking experience.
W&P's cocktail kit for carry-ons provides you with everything you need to craft the perfect drink, except for the liquor itself. This kit offers a variety of cocktail options, from Old Fashioned to Bloody Mary or Moscow Mule. And since the kit doesn't contain any liquor, you can easily bring it with you on the plane.
Simply ask the flight attendant for the appropriate alcohol, and you'll be all set to enjoy a delightful cocktail during your flight.
4. Consider upgrading your hotel room
Source: Patrick Robert Doyle/Unsplash
Upgrading your stay extends beyond just your flight. While booking your hotel, you can always opt for a room with a view to elevate your vacation experience. Even if you didn't plan ahead, you may still be able to secure more than your initial plans.
Similar to checking in for your flight, it's worthwhile to inquire about available upgrades when you check into your hotel. This simple request comes at no cost to you, and could potentially earn you a much-improved room. Whether due to cancellations or under-booked resorts, a small fee might grant you an upgrade to a nicer room or even a suite.
5. Treat yourself to a high-quality noise-canceling headset
Source: Devon Divine/Unsplash
From airplanes to trains, travel often comes with a lot of noise. Whether it's a crying baby or a loud snorer, there's no shortage of sounds that can make it difficult to relax. The right pair of headphones, however, can help you escape all that commotion.
While there are numerous premium, noise-canceling headphones on the market, you don't have to spend a fortune to find a great pair. Here's a list of the best noise-canceling headphones for various budgets, just for your convenience. Investing in a reliable set of headphones can transform your noisy travel experience into a personal oasis of tranquility.
Park smart and travel happily with the help of our booking platform – ParkingNearAirports.io!
Source: Jeffrey Czum/Pexels
In addition to our ultimate travel guide, we would also like to provide you with some more useful information on traveling, which will be handy for those who prefer doing this by air.
If you use your own car to reach the airport, you know it's critical to park it safely for the duration of your trip. Almost every airport has special on-site parking for this purpose. However, travelers aren't ready to spend a lot of money at the beginning of their trip, as this option is pretty costly. So what should we do then?
Our booking platform, ParkingNearAirports.io, offers travelers online reservations for parking just outside airports that are affordable and convenient. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing travelers parking options at over 100 airports in the US and Canada. The app allows customers to search and compare parking rates at up to 70 percent savings compared to the cost of on-site parking at all major airports.
What is actually off-site parking, and which advantages has this parking type, you may ask? So let's take a closer look at this question.
First of all, off-site parking is much cheaper. So you can save money and then spend the most considerable amount on the things you really want to try or see while traveling.
Secondly, off-site parking services are faster. It might seem that it's faster to park your car at the airport, but that's not always the case. Off-site parking offers you the following convenience: when you drive directly up to the entrance, a staff member pulls your luggage out of your vehicle and loads it into the shuttle. Then they park your car for you. After your baggage is loaded, you can take your seat in the shuttle, which will bring you and your bags to the airport. It's a hassle-free option that is usually faster.
Source: inma santiago/Unsplash
Thirdly, it's much more convenient. People are always stressed before the trip, as there are many things you should keep in mind. Not to be late when taking off, fighting traffic, finding a parking place, wondering how long the shuttle service will take, and more can leave you annoyed before you step foot inside the airport. If you choose off-site parking, you are using the assistance of a private company that caters to travelers' needs. Such services can make your trip much more comfortable when you arrive at the airport and return home.
With ParkingNearAirports.io, it takes just a few clicks within the application to reserve a parking spot. Upon arrival at off-airport parking, customers receive a booking confirmation and a guaranteed parking spot. The app helps customers find the most convenient airport parking lots. If plans change, cancellations are hassle-free and refundable.
We also offer you services for top cruise ports in Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, and Texas.
Let's look at an example. Imagine that you live in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. If you're planning a trip to Europe, you can choose cheap car parking near Atlanta Airport. If you're coming from Chicago, Illinois, the situation is the same – you can use affordable O'Hare off-site parking. So it depends just on where you are flying from.
On our official website, you can find the best deals, airport parking fees, and other information connected with parking near US and Canadian airports.
