How I fly business, score upgrades and enjoy five-star meals on a budget every time I travel – and it’s easier than you think

If you think luxury travel is only for those with platinum credit cards and sky-high salaries, you couldn’t be more wrong.

Australian travel expert Paige Carmichael has proved that you don’t need a millionaire bank balance to live like one, and she doesn’t mind sharing all of her money-saving tips either.

Speaking to FEMAIL, the self-confessed ‘luxury-for-less’ traveller, who splits her time between her home in Noosa, Queensland and jet-setting abroad, frequently shares her ultimate tips for faking five-star getaways.

With a social media following of over 62000, Paige has quickly become a go-to resource for travel-loving enthusiasts just like her.

One of her most viral videos which showcased her pick of three affordable (and equally luxurious) London hotels, has amassed 1.5 million views.

While in another recent viral reel Paige talked through her experience of flying with the elites. The video which detailed ‘everything that happens in business class on a long-haul flight to London’, is now at over 700,000 views.

‘We all deserve a little bougie experience. Travel is expensive enough these days, so if my tips make it a little less stressful, then that’s a win,’ she said.

From clever points hacks, booking off-peak, smart spending, to must-have high-end travel accessories, here’s exactly how Paige fakes her way to what feels like VIP travel experience every time she flies. 

Points hacking like a pro  

When it comes to getting a free upgrade Paige says it’s all about frequent flyer points, and anyone can do it.

‘The fastest way to rack up points is by getting a credit card that rewards you for spending,’ she explained.

‘I was raised to fear credit cards, but if you pay them off on time, it’s basically free points.’

Paige also swears by shopping through Qantas’ online portal, where you can earn points just by clicking through to sites like The Iconic.

And while many assume her influencer status is the reason she’s sipping champagne at 35,000 feet, Paige sets the record straight.

‘I get upgraded because of points and status, not because I take cute videos in dresses. My partner, who works in IT, once got bumped to business and left me in premium economy!’

Her golden rule? Pick an airline and stick with it. 

‘To land an upgrade with Qantas you need to accumulate points and status credits, so whenever I can, I book my flights through Qantas.’

‘It may not always be the cheapest option, but it works out much cheaper in the longer run when you take into consideration all the free upgrades I’ve gotten over the years with points.’

Where to find five-star stays for less

For those special trips, Paige doesn’t rely on Booking.com or last-minute deals.

She books directly through hotel websites or leans on a luxury travel advisors for upgrades and perks.

‘Always check the hotel website first as they often have discounts and offers for customers who book direct and additional perks like free breakfast, flexible check in and more,’ she said.

‘For upscale, special accommodation, I use a luxury travel advisor called Belle Travel, who can often get me a free upgrade, late check out and other goodies.’

Travel accessories that scream first-class 

Paige’s suitcase is packed with small luxuries that make a big difference.

‘I collect hotel slippers and always pack them in my carry on,’ she said.

‘They look and feel cute but also stop you from getting someone else’s wee on your socks when you go to the toilet mid flight!’

She also said a luxurious feeling ‘wide scarf can double as a blanket’, as well as wearing a stylish loungewear set layered with a crease-resistant trench coat is perfect for an ‘effortlessly chic’ airport look.

Selective seating counts  

Paige also has hacks for making even the longest cattle-class flights feel more luxurious.

‘I always check [the website] SeatGuru before choosing a seat, as not all seats are created equal!’ she said.

‘As someone who deals with IBS, aisle seats are non-negotiable for comfort, but researching the best spots can seriously upgrade your experience.’

Another tip is getting airport lounge access, even if you’re flying economy.

‘You can pay for lounge access at the airport with most airlines,’ she said.

‘It’s a quieter space than the main airport (good if you suffer from anxiety like me), has private shower facilities and a buffet – which is a godsend on a long-haul journey.’

Look polished after a 24-hour flight

To stay looking ‘put-together’ on long trips, Paige’s trick is surprisingly simple – get a professional blow-dry before you leave.

‘Then I pile my hair up for the flight. Dry shampoo saves me for the first few days after landing!’

Her go-to for greasy emergencies is MCo Beauty’s Magic dry shampoo – which is aerosol-free and travel-friendly.

Whether you’re dreaming of sipping champagne high in the air or checking into a plush hotel without the terrifying bill, Paige proves that you don’t need a fortune to live like you have one.

With a few clever hacks, a bit of forward planning, ‘anyone can turn their next trip into a five-star experience’.