For those who wonder what it feels like to live like the ultra-rich without actually breaking the bank, believe it or not, it’s more achievable than you might think. There are secrets to enjoying the finer things in life, like luxurious experiences and high-end products, without needing a billionaire’s bank account. Want to know them? Check out this list of affordable ways to live like the 1%, all designed to give you a taste of luxury without the luxury price tag.
Weekend Getaway at Off-Peak Times
Ever dreamt of sipping a cocktail by the ocean at a luxury resort? Booking these experiences during off-peak seasons can save you up to 50%. Resorts in places like Mexico or the Caribbean offer the same great weather and amenities for a fraction of the cost in shoulder seasons. Who said you need to wait for the summer rush?
Subscription Luxury Car Services
Drive like a mogul without owning a fleet of cars. Services like Porsche Drive or Care by Volvo let you subscribe to drive luxury vehicles for a monthly fee, including insurance and maintenance. This way, you can switch cars as often as your mood changes. Feel like a rockstar every time you hit the road, even if it’s just to grab some groceries.
High-End Fashion Rentals
Rock designer outfits without the designer price tags. Platforms like Rent the Runway or Le Tote offer high-end fashion rentals that make it possible to wear a glamorous new outfit for every occasion without committing to a hefty price. These rentals are perfect for weddings, galas, or just a fancy night out—because why buy when you can borrow?
Public Golf Courses
You don’t need a country club membership to play on top-notch golf courses. Many public golf courses are beautifully maintained and available for a fraction of the cost of private clubs. Spend the day playing a round where the elite play, and who knows? You might just bump into a CEO on the green.
Gourmet Cooking at Home
Channel your inner celebrity chef with gourmet meal kits from services like Blue Apron or HelloFresh. These kits bring luxury ingredients and world-class recipes right to your doorstep. It’s a fun way to improve your cooking skills and enjoy a five-star meal in your pajamas.
Spa Days at Local Beauty Schools
Pamper yourself without the hefty spa tag by visiting local beauty schools. Students often perform the same treatments for much less as they gain experience. It’s a win-win: you get your relaxation, and they get to perfect their craft. Just remember, they’re students, so maybe don’t opt for the most complicated treatments!
Opera and Theater Dress Rehearsals
Attending dress rehearsals allows you to experience the grandeur of the opera or theater without the high ticket prices. Many theaters and opera houses offer significantly discounted tickets for these. You get the same fantastic performances, with maybe just a bit more stopping and starting.
DIY Luxury Home Decor
Transform your home into a luxe environment with DIY projects. Websites like Pinterest or YouTube offer tons of tutorials on how to create high-end-looking decor on a budget. It’s all about the details—upgrade your living space without the need for a millionaire’s decorator.
Fitness Boot Camps and Community Classes
Join fitness boot camps or community classes usually offered at a discount or even free. These are great ways to get fit and feel fabulous, just like the celebs, but without the price tag of high-end personal trainers or exclusive gyms.
Secondhand Luxury
Delve into the world of secondhand luxury goods with websites like The RealReal or Vestiaire Collective. You can find items barely used or well cared for—a sustainable and economical way to flaunt luxury brands.
Fine Dining During Restaurant Week
Participate in your city’s Restaurant Week to enjoy fine dining at a reduced price. Top restaurants offer special menus that let you experience gourmet food at a fraction of the usual cost. A perfect excuse to dress up and dine like royalty, even if you’re not wearing a crown.
Virtual Travel Experiences
Immerse yourself in foreign cultures from the comfort of your home through virtual reality travel experiences. Companies like Oculus offer virtual tours that can make you feel like you’re halfway across the world, all without the need for expensive plane tickets.
Library Wine Tastings
Many local libraries or community centers host wine-tasting events that feature high-quality vintages. This is a low-cost way to develop your palate and enjoy a sophisticated evening. Just try not to show off your newfound wine vocabulary too much!
Art Openings and Gallery Shows
Regularly attend art openings and gallery shows, which often offer free admission. It’s a cultural outing where you can mingle with artists and collectors—sometimes even with complimentary wine and cheese.
Use Technology for Smart Savings
Leverage technology to find the best deals and discounts on luxury experiences. Apps and websites like Groupon, Honey, or Jetsetter can help you live a champagne lifestyle on a beer budget. Living like the 1% doesn’t have to drain your resources, it just requires smart planning!