NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – Traveling nowadays is not for the faint of heart.

Skyrocketing airline fees, high gas prices and the endless search for a decent hotel that doesn’t charge an arm and a leg – throw children in the mix, and it can quickly turn into an ordeal.

What if you could travel in style, like a VIP, without paying like one?

Kim-Marie Evans, a mom of 4 and the founder of  luxurytravelmom.com, offers some tips:

• Dress nice & act nice – no matter who you are, you’re not going to get what you want if you’re wearing sweatpants.
• Ask for what you want – ask for an upgrade, a late checkout, a key to the concierge.
• Be wary of online discount sites.
• Join loyalty clubs.
• Get a good travel agents. Yes, they’re still in business. They’re not that expensive – and it’s worth any little premium you may pay.

For more luxury travel tips, check out the full interview with Kim-Marie Evans below.