How to Travel Like an Influencer

We get it, your favorite social media influencers whip up an Instagram Reel and they’re treated to private jets, first-class accommodations and all the trimmings. But don’t we all want to travel luxuriously? Quite honestly, don’t you work 100 hours a week and probably are more deserving of a luxury trip?

Ok, rant over. You’re on your way thanks to the Wealth Elf. Here’s how you can literally travel like an influencer paying way less than what appears to be!

Fly private but smarter. Somewhat an oxymoron but if you wanted to fuel up a jet (while being frugal) to get to your destination there’s a few tricks.

First, you can book an empty leg home. Often when a private jet returns empty after dropping off passengers you can save up to 75% off the charter price rate by taking advantage of that return trip (or “to” trip if the jet was doing a pick up).

Visit Jetsmarter (now XO), Victor, GlobeAir or PrivateFly to take advantage of these deep price cuts. Notably you’ll need to be flexible as flights often pop up last-minute and are one-way.

Additionally, you can opt for jet sharing via seat booking on private jets, which offers a more accessible and cost-effective way to experience private air travel without chartering an entire aircraft. Instead of renting the whole jet, passengers can purchase individual seats on flights that are already scheduled or arranged by private jet companies. This approach allows multiple travelers, often with similar routes or destinations, to share the cost of the flight.

The price per seat typically ranges from $300 to $1,000 for a short regional flight, depending on several factors such as the route, aircraft type, demand, and time of booking. For example, flying between nearby cities or popular regional hubs might cost around $300-$600 per seat, while more exclusive routes or last-minute bookings could push the price closer to $1,000.

If you’re looking for more tips for flying economy, check out our guide: How to Save on Flights like an Industry Pro.

Next, stay in a luxury hotel for less. Staying in luxury hotels without paying full price is very possible—if you know where (and when) to look.

Specifically, you can use luxury hotel booking platforms with perks to get 5-star stays for less with upgrades and free breakfast.

Checkout Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts (with Platinum/Centurion cards), Virtuoso (virtuoso.com), Hotels.com/VIP Access and get discounts after 10 stays and special VIP hotel perks.

Prestigia or Tablet Hotels (via Michelin) also offers curated luxury properties with deals.

Beyond that you can book hotel stays just for the day. Many hotels sell day passes to high-end hotels and resorts, giving you access to:

• Swimming pools and private cabanas, where you can relax and soak up the sun in a tranquil environment.

• Spa and wellness centers, offering treatments, massages, and use of saunas or steam rooms.

• Fitness centers and yoga studios, allowing you to maintain your workout routine while traveling.

• Exclusive lounges and rooftop terraces, perfect for enjoying drinks, socializing, or working in a sophisticated setting.

• On-site restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy gourmet meals or refreshing cocktails without leaving the property.

• Business facilities, including meeting rooms and workspaces, ideal for those needing a productive environment during the day.

The only catch is you can’t stay the night or utilize the hotel room. This offering is great for locals who want a "mini-vacation" or spa day or travelers with a long layover.

Costs for just the pool typically range $30-150 then there’s opportunities to flex up with cabana and spa rentals. Check out sites like DayPass and Resort Pass.

If you’re looking for additional ways to save on accommodations check out our Top Hacks to Save on Hotel Stays from the Wealth Elf.

The sites are typically available in major cities and vacation spots (e.g., Miami, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Hawaii, NYC, Mexico, Caribbean). Big name hotels can be found such as

• Four Seasons

• Ritz-Carlton

• Fairmont

• W Hotels

• Waldorf Astoria

Which would you prefer to splurge on flying or accommodations? Let us know at @Wealth_Elf