A luxury travel agent shares seven stylish travel tips that won't break the bank.

Personally, I can say that there were moments over the last two years when just seeing a jumbo Toblerone in the discount aisle felt like my only connection to a holiday, transporting my thoughts to duty-free shops from a pre-pandemic era.

At last, the world is blooming open like a rare flower infused with the scent of suncream. The Toblerone has returned to the pre-departure breakfast lineup.

However, after the festive spending, finances can be quite tight during this season. This has led us to ponder: how can one vacation like royalty without overspending on winter energy bills?

Here, Tom Marchant, co-founder of the bespoke luxury travel agency Black Tomato, offers seven of his reliable tips for globe-trotting without the hefty price tag.

Travel during the off-peak season.

"For those mindful of their budget, the green season (safari lingo for the warm, occasionally rainy months) offers fantastic safari experiences at lodges with competitive rates and equally impressive wildlife sightings. It's advisable to explore (or consult a travel expert about) 'shoulder seasons' when considering specific locations. You'll discover better deals and fewer crowds, particularly in popular spots like the Caribbean."

"For spring, I recommend Morocco, which is warm and inviting, boasting a range of luxurious accommodations in Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains, and Skoura."

"In terms of safaris, spring is an excellent choice, especially in Kenya. Though there may be intermittent rain, it usually arrives suddenly and clears up quickly, making the green season a prime opportunity to see the Big Five!"

"Traveling off-season not only allows for a more authentic experience, but it also helps support local economies and ecosystems throughout the year, beyond just peak tourism months."

Indulge in one or two exceptional experiences.

"I suggest this as a memorable way to frame your trip with unique and special moments—such as a hot air balloon ride at dawn, a gourmet picnic following an exhilarating hike, or a picturesque boat trip to enjoy the sunset in a hidden cove."

"While it's enjoyable to sprinkle in various excursions, having a truly remarkable experience planned at the beginning helps you dive straight into vacation mode. Additionally, a stunning highlight to anticipate at the end leaves you with a positive feeling and can ease the transition back home."

"This approach allows you to enjoy luxury travel while keeping the rest of your itinerary more relaxed and budget-friendly."

Choose destinations where your budget can stretch further.

"Spain is an excellent option for budget-conscious honeymooners. With its enticing mix of experiences and a longer travel season than many other destinations, Spain is ideal for year-round visits. It also boasts everything that attracts travelers to Europe: delicious food, rich culture, fine wine, and lively nightlife."

"While beachgoers should aim for the warmer months, Spain offers a less crowded and more affordable alternative to Italy for those mindful of their budget, all while delivering outstanding cuisine and cultural experiences."

"For the adventurous traveler, Sri Lanka is a compelling value destination, often cheaper than India. Similarly, Guatemala provides a more affordable option compared to pricier Costa Rica."

Make reservations early and consider traveling midweek.

"Booking early gives you more options for room categories and can lead to cheaper flight prices. Iconic properties like the legendary Four Seasons Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat on the French Riviera and the stunning Grand Hotel Tremezzo in Lake Como, a favorite of Black Tomato, tend to fill their entry-level rooms quickly, so securing a spot in advance is essential."

"Once those rooms are booked, you could end up paying significantly more—double, triple, or even higher. While having a spacious suite is nice, you still get access to the same restaurants, pools, and amenities no matter your room type."

"For quick getaways, traveling midweek is often a savvy move if you can manage the time off. As tour operators, we enjoy access to exclusive hotel rates and can often secure availability with our hotel partners that might not be available otherwise. However, booking early will always enhance your chances of success, especially for popular tours and experiences."

Embrace a "low and slow" travel approach.

"We've noticed a growing trend towards a more 'grounded' experience by adopting a 'low and slow' travel style. This means flying into a destination and then exploring by car, train, on foot, or by bicycle, rather than hopping between flights on your itinerary."

"Reducing the number of internal flights can help save money and allows travelers to take their time, fully immersing themselves in the landscape and atmosphere of their journey."

"Sicily offers a fantastic culturally immersive experience best enjoyed through driving, cycling, or walking. Always opt for some 'low and slow' travel methods.

"I personally enjoy walking tours and using public transportation to truly connect with a destination."

Travel with larger groups.

"After the extended time apart that families and friends have experienced in recent years, it's no surprise that we're seeing a rise in groups eager to reconnect on special trips together."

"Whether it's large families or groups of friends excited for a major getaway, now is the perfect time to plan an overseas holiday with clearer travel conditions."

"Ultimately, renting a luxury Scandinavian lodge—such as the stunning Aurora Lodge—or an exquisite villa in Ibiza can often be more economical per person than staying in a luxury hotel, while also providing a more unique and spectacular experience."

Steer clear of the tourist hotspots.

"It might seem obvious, but avoiding the usual tourist paths can be incredibly rewarding, both financially and in terms of the experiences you gain."

"Take Istria in Croatia, for instance. This somewhat hidden gem is often overlooked by the masses. With its fresh seafood, crystal-clear waters, excellent wine, and stunning scenery, it offers beautiful villages at much better prices than neighboring Italy, making it an amazing and more budget-friendly option."

"The same principle applies to dining. While in a destination, seek out local neighborhood restaurants away from the main thoroughfare—these spots will provide more authentic cuisine without the tourist price tag. Additionally, look for local guides and tours that can lead you away from the crowded attractions and toward the places where locals love to gather."