Paying for upgrades can completely transform your vacation. You can completely transform your holiday and make it the best of your life by paying for luxury upgrades along the way. Here are some luxury upgrades that you may not think are worth it, but should be considered:
Airport Security: Fast Track
There once was a time when you could stroll through airports without worrying about long security queues. Sadly, this isn’t the case anymore and you’re usually arriving 3 hours ahead of time just to make sure you’re not stuck waiting to pass through the scanners.
That’s where the first luxury upgrade comes into play: fast-track airport security.
Many airports offer the option of paying money to get through a semi private security area. It takes only minutes to get through all the lines. It’s not an overly expensive service either, but to be honest, you’d pay pretty much anything to dodge the long lines.
Airport Lounge Services
There will be lounges in all airports where people can wait for flights in a private area. They offer a lovely quiet area that’s free from the hustle and bustle of normal airport life. You can relax in a lounge instead of fighting for a seat or trying to find food.
Some of the best airport lounges are truly luxurious and extremely comfortable. Some even offer hot showers and fine dining! If you pay, almost all airport lounges are accessible. Most of the time, you gain access by having certain perks – like an American Express card or first-class flight tickets. But if you don’t have these, speak to someone at the lounge and they’ll state the fee for entry.
It’s well worth it to get a moment’s peace before you jet off. Pre-flight anxiety in the airport is one of those things that are worse. The lounges are a great place to escape from this stress and have a more pleasant experience.
Upgraded Tickets
Some flights will have various ticket options to choose from. Most airlines offer economy, premium economy and business class tickets. If you hate being crammed together with loads of people or can’t stand screaming babies on your flight, you need to upgrade to a better seat class.
The more you spend, the better your travel experience. First-class seats offer more space, quieter cabins and constant food service. A few of the best first-class tickets in the world also provide free gifts you can take home with you!
This is the best upgrade of all. Especially if you’re on a long-haul flight and will be sitting in the same place for 5+ hours. It’s a horrible experience doing this in the economy, so upgrading to business or first class reduces loads of stress. Think of it this way, it’s an opportunity to get your holiday off on the right foot, rather than landing and having so much stress hanging over you already.
As mentioned above, first class tickets also come with additional benefits. In some airports, the main perk is access to VIP lounges. Your ticket gives you access to the lounge without having to pay separately.
Early Boarding
What happens if better ticket classes aren’t available? This is usually the case with shorter flights and smaller aircraft. Early boarding is the best upgrade if you have only one ticket. Most airlines offer both early boarding and more spacious seats even if they only have one class of seat available.
You can board the plane ahead of everyone else, and avoid the rush. You’ll be seated with your bags stowed while everyone else stresses out trying to find overhead luggage space.
For us, this is an essential upgrade on any family vacation. Getting your family on board the plane first will help you relax and gain easy access your luggage.
Private Transfers
You exit the plane, and then you pass through border controls. You collect your luggage and have to find your way to the hotel or resort you’re staying in. Here’s where a luxury upgrade is essential to making your vacation enjoyable. Avoid busy public transport or smelly cabs by upgrading to a private chauffeur service. You’ll receive a personal driver in a comfortable car that takes you directly to where you need to be.
You can be as extravagant as you like. Some private transfer companies provide luxurious limousines and others nice minivans. It’s entirely up to you, but the point is that you can relax in the back seat and enjoy an effortless journey to your final destination.
Start your vacation off with a private shuttle from your home to the airport. Again, you don’t have to get any public transport or worry about finding a parking space for your car. The whole experience starts in a positive manner.
Private Pools
It’s highly recommended to book a hotel room with a private pool. A villa with a pool is also an option. It’s a great upgrade. No more going to the pool to hope that there are still sun loungers available. You can relax and enjoy your own space without any worries.
This is one of those upgrades you think is excessive, but once you’ve experienced it you realize it’s hard to go back. You want privacy while on vacation as you’re trying to relax. You’ll have less to worry about with a private pool!
You’ll notice all of these upgrades tackle different stages of your vacation. Some deal with the initial transfer to the airport, and then you’re making the airport experience far more enjoyable. After this, you’re getting a better flying experience before being transferred to your hotel with no worries. You can enjoy a luxurious holiday with a private pool and room. What more could you ask for in a vacation?!
Click here for more luxury travel articles.