After traveling to Nantucket last weekend, and staying at the luxurious and beautiful Harborview Place right in downtown Nantucket, my kids have been begging for a return stay in the summer.  The gorgeous three-bedroom vacation home we stayed in goes for almost $2,000 per night in the summer, making it nearly impossible for our family to afford to stay there.  If you have your heart set on a luxury hotel, but not the vacation budget, there are still ways you can save money and take your dream vacation.

Try to travel in the off-season.  This particular condo we stayed at in Nantucket is much less expensive in the quiet season (just about any month other than July or August).  If we went in September, the weather would still be warm and the prices would be much lower.  Plus, our destination would be much less crowded.

Downgrade your hotel slightly.  Instead of the three-bedroom condo, we could stay in a one- or two-bedroom unit.  It would be in the same location, and have the same amenities, but it would be less expensive.

Save elsewhere.  Since these condos offer a kitchen, we could save money by cooking our meals.  You could also try to save money by taking public transporation rather than renting a car.  Or try to drive rather than fly to your destination - you'll save money on transportation and won't need to rent a car.

Look for flash travel sales and special deals.  Not every place offers them, but if you can find a flash sale you can save A LOT of money. Keep in mind that flash sales do have restrictions, so do all of your research in advance.

How do you save money on luxury getaways?

Disclosure: The Nantucket Chamber of Commerce and Harborview Place provided our lodging and transportation during the Christmas Stroll weekend.

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