
✨ Let’s get into it ✨
💡 TLDR
Okay, so like, you don’t need to be a CEO to fly first class. Here’s how to do it without blowing your budget. Tjin Lee, a marketing queen, saved half her business class airfare to Europe by transitin…
Okay, so like, you don’t need to be a CEO to fly first class. Here’s how to do it without blowing your budget. Tjin Lee, a marketing queen, saved half her business class airfare to Europe by transiting through Bangkok. Yep, flights out of nearby airports can slash prices by 50%—and she’s not the only one. “I’ve been doing this for years,” says Lee, who rerouted her Singapore-to-Montenegro trip via Istanbul for S$1,625 instead of S$2,725. It’s a hack that’s been around, but only now is it hitting mainstream.
The secret? Flexibility. Cyndi Hui, Skyscanner’s senior director, says being open to dates, destinations, and even airports unlocks deals. “Set alerts and chase underrated spots,” she says. Places like Kuala Lumpur or Ho Chi Minh City offer five-star vibes for less than Paris or Tokyo. Jiax, a finance influencer, even suggests flying to Cape Town for twice the flight time for the same miles as a Singapore-Japan trip. Bonus: extra meals and a luxurious escape without the premium price tag.
Credit cards are your new BFF. Jiax’s trick? Start with cards that earn 4 miles per dollar on everyday spend—like the UOB Preferred Platinum Visa or Citi Rewards Card. “Max out S$1,000 a month and you’ll rack up 52k miles in 13 months,” he says. Pair it with Pelago for extra miles, and you’re booking for your squad without breaking a sweat. Wong, founder of The MileLion, adds that stacking rewards and signing up for loyalty programs (like Krisflyer or EVA Air’s Infinity MileageLands) can save thousands. “One program could cut a Singapore-to-US flight from 107k to 75k miles,” he says.
Hotels? Use loyalty points like they’re cash. Wong says big chains like Marriott or Hilton sometimes sell points at a discount—think a Maldives stay for S$600 instead of S$2,600. And if your dream hotel isn’t part of a chain? Book through HoteLux or Virtuoso for perks like free upgrades and US$100 credits. Oh, and don’t forget to book smart: Expedia’s data says Thursday is the best day to fly internationally, saving up to 31% compared to Sundays.
💫 Drop it in the comments—let’s make this vibe happen.
So what’s your go-to trick for luxury travel without the luxury price tag? Drop it in the comments—let’s make this vibe happen.
KEY POINTS: Transit through neighboring airports to unlock cheaper business class flights—like Bangkok for Europe trips. Stack credit card rewards with travel platforms like Pelago to earn extra miles. Prioritize underrated destinations for luxury stays without the high price tag.
CLOSE: What’s your go-to trick for luxury travel without the luxury price tag? Drop it in the comments—let’s make this vibe happen.
❓ People Also Ask
How to book discounted business class flights?
Use airline loyalty programs, book during off-peak times, and compare prices on fare comparison sites. Sign up for alerts and consider last-minute deals for better rates.
What’s the best way to get cheap luxury hotels?
Look for hotel loyalty programs, use price comparison tools, and book in advance. Consider off-season travel and check for package deals that include flights and stays.
💬 What do you think? Let us know in the comments! 👇