travel budget list

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How to Make a Travel Budget in 2023 [Free Template]

Amar Hussain

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Keri Stooksbury

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Table of Contents

Can you afford to travel, the 2 approaches to travel budgets, travel budget template worksheet, travel budget considerations, websites to help research travel costs, the best apps for travel budgets and expense tracking, saving for your vacation, final thoughts.

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Creating a travel budget isn’t all about boring spreadsheets and searching for low budget bargains — a finely-crafted budget it is designed to maximize your total travel experience.

Let’s start out easy here. You may have dreams of globetrotting and living your best life in distant lands, but can you actually afford it?

The amount you have to spend on your trip will need to be proportionate to the place you are visiting. By that, we mean that some destinations can be done on the cheap, while others will be a bit more of an investment.

Where you want to stay, what you intend to do when you get there, and physically how far away you will be from home can all have a considerable bearing on how deep your pockets will need to be.

Before you book yourself silly, really break down the potential costs of your dream trip and tally it up with the amount of money you will realistically have to fund it.

Bottom Line: Sometimes, it may be better to put your plans on hold until you have saved up enough cash to really experience a place, rather than rushing to get there and missing out on some of the best bits.

Whether you are a plan-well-in-advance sort of traveler or more of a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants kind of person, there are different ways to approach setting out your budget based on what works best for you.

Plan Your Adventure Well in Advance

The most traditional way to book a vacation is to think of somewhere you want to go, plan your vacation dates, and decide how long you want to stay. This kind of advanced planning is the usual go-to for most travelers, as it allows you to book time off of work or plan trips around school semesters, and gives you the opportunity to firm up plans before you leave.

Knowing when and where you are going also has another key advantage — it gives you plenty of time to save up all the cash you will need to really enjoy your time there. Booking in advance also means you get your choice of cheaper accommodation at better rates.

Book months in advance and you can research your planned itinerary and potential expenditure, and maybe even save enough extra for upgrades of luxuries to make your adventure truly special. This kind of planning is a great incentive for saving hard.

Travel Based on Your Bank Balance

If, on the other hand, you want to take your cash and get the hell out of dodge, you can work backward to identify the most amount of fun you can have for your money. If you are feeling lucky, and you know how much you are willing to spend, the world really is your oyster.

The awesome power of the internet has made impulse traveling even easier, as you can simply hit up any number of booking sites to find an exciting destination, as well as suitable flights, accommodation, and excursions in just a few clicks.

Another great way to make your budget go further is to think outside the box. Visiting popular destinations out of season, taking shorter vacation times, or even looking at places away from the main tourist trail can all make your money go further.

A trip to the legendary Yosemite National Park during April or May, for example, is a great way to experience some of the most iconic open spaces in America before the schools let out, or hit the beaches of Miami or the Florida Keys during September and October when tourists shy away from the increased risk of stormy weather.

You can also look at alternatives to the more traditional resort destinations to get more bang for your buck. Consider a trip to Reno instead of Las Vegas, hit the slopes in Winter Park instead of the sky-high prices in Vail, or take in the history of Williamsburg and avoid the price tags of New York or Los Angeles on your next city break.

To help you plan and keep track of your travel budget we have created a free, handy Microsoft Excel spreadsheet.

📋  Click to Download Our Travel Budget Template >  📋

When planning your travel budget, there are lots of different things to consider. Break down your budget into subsections to make it easier to plan and stick to:

Passport and Visas

One of the most essential elements of your travel plan will revolve around the legal and local requirements for travel to and from your destination. You must research any visa requirements and restrictions before you fly, and be sure to have all the documentation you need before you leave.

Most countries will have their own individual and very specific entry requirements, and there may be restrictions on how much local currency you can bring with you, as well as how long you can stay.

As a very rough guide, some examples of the requirements for U.S. citizens could include:

• Travel to Europe — If you are traveling to or through any of the main 26 European countries, you must know the requirements of the Schengen Agreement, which eliminates borders and assumes that travelers will be able to enjoy up to 3-months of visa-free travel. This will change in January 2021 with the introduction of the ETIAS .
• Travel to Australia — You must have a valid U.S. passport and an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enjoy up to 90 days of travel in Australia.
• Travel to Central America — You will not need a visa to visit most Central American countries, but you may need a tourist card for some destinations (~$10) to allow stays of up to 90 days visa-free.
• Travel To South Africa — You must have a valid U.S. passport, but do not need a visa for stays of 30 days or less.

Check out our guide to tourist visa information on over 100 countries.

Travel Insurance

There are many great reasons why you should always buy travel insurance coverage for your trips overseas, and only 1 reason not to. Trust us. If the worst should happen while you are away, you will wish you hadn’t tried to save money by skipping on the insurance, so make sure you always make space for travel insurance in your travel budget .

The best travel insurance policy does not necessarily have to be the most expensive one you find, but it probably won’t be the cheapest either. With this in mind, shop around and speak to a variety of providers before committing to any 1 product.

There will be different levels of coverage available to suit the requirements of every type of traveler, from lone backpackers to family vacations, but at the very least you should try to include:

• Emergency medical expenses
• Repatriation expenses
• Cancellation or curtailment coverage
• Lost baggage coverage
• Travel delay/missed departure coverage
• Journey disruption coverage
• Personal liability coverage
• Legal expenses coverage
• Electronics loss/theft and damage coverage

Depending on where you go, what you’ll be doing, and the nature of your trip, you may want to also consider dedicated financial protection that could include specific coverage for:

• Winter sports coverage
• Terrorism disruption coverage
• Cruise coverage
• Business coverage
• Sports equipment coverage

It is important to remember that the domestic health insurance that you use at home will not necessarily cover you if you get into medical trouble overseas . Don’t leave it to chance — invest wisely in your travel insurance and never skimp on the coverage just to save yourself a few bucks before you go.

You should also look into insurance coverage for your prized electrical items and personal belongings, too . While we would recommend leaving the diamonds at home, unless you are going somewhere exceptionally glamorous, many of us will take expensive electronics with us everywhere we go.

Find coverage that offers repairs or replacement for damaged, broken, lost, or stolen items before you go.

Hot Tip: There are some credit cards with travel insurance , so you might already have some coverage without knowing it!

Vaccinations

Some parts of the world pose more of a risk to our health than others. By ensuring that you have all the travel vaccinations you need before you go, you can reduce the risk of developing serious diseases that your immune system may not be used to.

You can pretty much be vaccinated against all of the world’s most common communicable diseases at your local doctor’s office, health care center, or health department, and there will be medical professionals who will be able to provide you with useful information for your trip.

You will need to do your own research before you travel and speak to healthcare providers about the risks. But, as a rough guide to keep in mind when planning your travel budget, here are some of the most common travel vaccinations and their approximate costs:

• Cholera — A single-dose oral vaccine costs around $45.
• Hepatitis A — A single-dose vaccine costs around $115.
• Japanese Encephalitis — 2 doses given 4 weeks apart costs around $290 per injection.
• Meningococcal Disease — This single-dose vaccine is recommended from pre-teenage years and costs around $135.
• Rabies — A series of 3 or 4 injections into the muscles over the course of 4 weeks costs around $3000 for the entire course.
• Typhoid Fever — A single oral dose for anyone over 6 years old costs around $60.
• Yellow Fever — This vaccine is not stocked everywhere, but if you can find a clinic that offers it, you will need a single shot costing as much as $350.
• Malaria — There is no single vaccine, but antimalarial tablets can be taken to reduce the risk of contracting the disease by 90%. These may need to be taken as far as 3 months in advance and can cost anything from $20 a pack up to $260 per pack.

Clothes, Gear, and Toiletries

What you need to take with you will depend very much on where you headed. Whether you choose to travel light or max out your luggage allowance is up to you, but there are plenty of ways to help keep costs down when it comes to packing for your next adventure.

Compile a Capsule Wardrobe

Travel guides always bang on about the legendary “capsule wardrobe” — but it literally is a real thing. By taking 7 or 8 items of clothing with you that can be worn in a variety of ways you can dress for days at a time without worrying about overfilling your luggage or maxing out your travel budget.

Choose 2 pants, skirts or jeans, 3 tops, 1 sweater, 1 dress or a smart shirt and a coat or jacket, and you should be pretty much good to go. Throw in beachwear, sports gear, or thermals as-needed and some socks and underwear to see yourself sorted for the duration of your stay.

Another way to keep costs down is to avoid buying new stuff for every vacation . Your favorite bikini, flip flops, party dress, or even hoodie should be shown off time and time again, so never feel the need to replace your vacation clothing unless you really need to.

Here are some destination-specific packing lists:

• Beach Vacation Packing List
• Cruise Vacation Packing List
• Disney Vacation Packing List

If you want to take your travel camera with you, your GoPro for awesome live video, your phone, tablet, laptop, headphones , or any other bits of kit — think carefully about whether or not you really need it.

Taking more expensive gear with you increases the risk of stuff getting lost, broken, or stolen, as well as weighing your luggage down and tying you to charging ports and electrical sockets.

Keeping Clean

Most people like to have their favorite toiletries with them, but save money and space in your luggage by not taking full-size products.

You needn’t even worry about wasting money on cute little travel size products either. Simply decant your full-size bottles and pots into smaller travel containers instead . This is super easy to do, meets with TSA regulations, and saves you a few dollars here and there.

Alternatively, buy what you need when you arrive. Most destinations and airports will have plenty of shops to choose from. One area where you shouldn’t cut costs, however, is sunscreen. Buy the best you can, ideally from a trusted brand, before you leave.

Finally, check if the airline you are using charges extra for checked baggage and if so, see if you can get away with just a carry-on case instead.

The amount you pay for your flights will vary widely depending on a wide number of variants, including:

• Your destination
• Who you choose to fly with
• Whether you fly direct
• Whether you fly return or one-way
• The day of the week and time of day that you fly, and even the time of year
• Where you fly from
• When you book

There are many different ways to fly around the skies, but here are some ways to bag cheaper flights :

• Use Points and Miles — If you aren’t accumulating points to fly, read this beginner’s guide to get started.
• Book as Early as You Can — Flights often significantly increase in price within 3 weeks of the departure date.
• Stay Flexible — Flights leaving on different days or at times of day can be cheaper than others.
• Don’t Dismiss Discount Airlines — Short journeys, internal flights, and even some international journeys can be way cheaper on discount, no-frills airlines.
• Sign Up and Shop Around — Sign up with airlines direct to be notified of discounts and flash sales, and be sure to check in on all airlines that fly to your preferred destination.
• Use Aggregation Sites — Sometimes this is a winner, sometimes it isn’t — but don’t be afraid to try. Sites like Kayak or Skyscanner can be good, but don’t just accept the first price they give you.
• Buy Connecting Flights — It can be cheaper to buy 2 separate connecting flights than a direct 1. Check your destination and see who stops where along the route.

Accommodation

Again, how much you spend on where you stay is entirely up to you. Keeping costs down can be harder in large cities or expensive beach resorts, but there are ways to rest your head without losing your mind over the cost of it all.

Whether you are going for an all-out 5-star luxury or a family-friendly motel room, there are always deals to be had. Book direct through the hotel, include weeknights or a Sunday night in your stay, and be flexible on location.

Hot Tip: A hotel just outside of town, for example, will offer more attractive nightly rates and free parking and will usually represent better value for money than a downtown hotel will.

Renting a private home or vacation apartment on a short term basis can be much more affordable than a hotel. You can also find some superb properties for rent, complete with everything you need to enjoy your stay.

Fully-equipped kitchens, parking, TVs, and even pools often come standard and depending on your destination, there are lots of great Airbnbs and other holiday rental websites available.

If you are heading to the coast, the backcountry, or just getting out into the great outdoors, camping can completely transform your experience. Many campsites come complete with showers and cooking facilities and even pools, sports facilities, and fitness centers. You can take your own tent or rent one.

Another great way to save money on accommodation is to look at hostels in the area. A far cry from old fashioned student accommodation, many modern hostels are clean, bright, and modern and offer a combination of dorm-style bedrooms and private double or family rooms with en-suite facilities.

Hot Tip: Hostels are a great way to stay right in the middle of some of the most expensive cities in the world.

Rent a Recreational Vehicle

Another great choice if you are heading out on the open road, RVs can save you a fortune as you literally take your accommodation with you. RV trips are fun, family-friendly, and provided you aren’t always in a gas station, a great way to save money on where you stay.

RVshare and Outdoorsy are 2 companies that rent out campers and RVs.

You can pretty much rent any kind of vehicle , anywhere in the world. Although if you are staying in a city, public transport is a much more useful and affordable proposition.

The same rules also apply to some intercontinental trips, as well. For example, it can be easier and cheaper to travel through Europe using trains and buses than worrying about having to take care of a car when you get there.

If you want to explore out of the way destinations, hard to reach beaches, or just like the idea of being free to come and go as you please, car hire is readily available in most corners of the world.

Before you commit to it, think about the rental fees, fuel costs, and other potential expenditures and compare the costs of using public transport in your chosen destination.

Car hire here in the U.S. will vary depending on the type of car you choose and how long you intend to hire it. Small city cars are the most cost-effective, and big SUVs, 4x4s and luxury cars can also be hired if you have deep pockets.

When it comes to car rental, keep your costs down by:

• Booking your vehicle in advance
• Looking outside the airport as you may get a better deal in town
• Choosing a practical vehicle to suit your needs, not your dream supercar
• Being aware of mileage limits and one-way fees
• Use a credit card with car rental insurance , so you can be ready to turn down unnecessary add-ons and cross-sells that you don’t need
• Making sure the vehicle is checked for damage before you take the keys
• Only hiring it for as long as you need it
• Keeping your eyes out for deals on particular types of car, and better prices for longer-term rentals

Local Transportation

Most tourist hotspots, big towns, cities, and even some iconic landmarks will offer a wide range of public transport options to get you around. There will be more choice and more frequent services in highly populated areas, while services may become more restricted further out in the countryside or suburbs.

If you are clever, you could save yourself a small fortune by grabbing good deals on public transport, leaving you with more cash to spend on the fun things in life.

Try these to tips for traveling around town on the cheap:

• Buy daily, weekly or even monthly travel passes in advance
• Bulk buy tickets online or via an app
• Take advantage of student passes or discounted fares for families, seniors, or children
• Avoid traveling during peak commuter times
• Services like Greyhound offer cheaper fares for mid-week journeys
• Sign up for early notification of flash sales and other promotional codes and discounts

Attractions and Activities

Wherever you are headed, there will no doubt be plenty of things to do and places to see when you get there. The key to not missing a single thing is researching everything before you leave.

Have a plan in place of all the activities you want to take part in and the attractions you want to see and integrate the potential entrance costs, additional fees, and other expenses into your initial budget.

With a bit of luck, you will be able to find plenty of local discounts, city passes, and money-saving ways to see all of the very best attractions at rock bottom prices.

Pick up a copy of the local listings magazine or newspaper and check out free events , as well as using the coupons and discount codes they supply for all kinds of attractions. You can also subscribe to online discount sites like Groupon to find discounted ticket prices.

Historical landmarks, museums , art galleries, theme parks , sporting events, concerts, and many more attractions often offer reduced entrance prices at off-peak times or group discounts to entice visitors in. Some even have a free entrance day once a month.

Big cities often have lots of free entertainment on offer, too. Check out the artsy districts of major cities for street entertainers and free shows. If you are heading to the beach, research costs such as sunbed rental, locker rental, and even the menus at local restaurants to gauge an idea of how much a day on the beach could potentially cost you.

If you want to try your hand at surfing, sailing, or other kinds of water sports, you may want to get back on the internet and find reduced price lessons or discounts for group bookings.

Walk-Around Money

While you may have budgeted every dollar down to the last cent, you should also keep a contingency plan for some pocket money . Days out in the town, lazy afternoons on the beach, or even a trip on a planned excursion can present you with lots of little unknown expenses.

Whether you need to buy an extra bottle of water, some sunscreen for your face, or entrance to additional attractions, keeping a little cash on you is a good way to be prepared.

Large amounts of cash should never be carried about your person while you are out exploring, but a couple of dollars stashed into your pocket or travel wallet and can be incredibly useful.

In order to keep your money safe, you should:

• Never flash wads of cash
• Keep your notes and loose change somewhere safe like your inside pocket or in a money belt
• Carry small denomination notes and coins
• Understand the local currency you are carrying, so you known how much to give over when paying

Walk-around money is simply a little buffer to keep you going, but set yourself a daily budget and stick to it.

Gifts and Souvenirs

These days, almost everyone travels at some point. This means that those unusual and unique products that we used to buy as souvenirs are no longer as sought after as they once were.

Nearly every tourist destination on earth will be able to sell you tacky bits and pieces for you to take home, but savvy travelers bypass these and look for more personalized and unique mementos to take home with them instead.

Bottom Line: A t-shirt here, a guide book there, and lots of little bits and pieces in between can soon add up. Spend wisely, and if you must buy gifts and souvenirs, choose ones that have a special meaning to you, that you can treasure forever.

To help make your research easier, some clever folks who have traveled before you have made websites that can help you to research and plan every single aspect of your next big adventure and what the costs involved may be.

Budget Your Trip

Budget Your Trip is a huge repository of travel costs that have been hand-gathered from thousands of travelers, and now provides an incredibly comprehensive guide to how much your trip will really cost you.

You can create and personalize your very own travel budget once you register with the website. You can also pick up tons of top travel tips and advice for both new and experienced travelers alike.

Nomad List offers a heap of resources and information for remote workers, digital nomads, and travelers, Nomad List is designed to help users navigate the world. Find information on thousands of destinations, places to work, neighborhoods to stay, and even make new friends before you go.

A great site for anyone who wants to work and travel for longer-term adventures, you can ask questions and arrange meet-ups to touch base with other like-minded wanderers.

This clever little website has 1 goal in mind — to let you know exactly how much money you really need to stay at your dream destination. Expatistan offers direct comparisons between different locations and the website is essentially a giant cost-of-living database that is updated and improved on a regular basis.

Using collaborative information garnered from expats from all over the world, this website really will give you the lowdown of where you can, and can’t, afford to be.

Keeping track of your expenses using your bank balance alone can be a real pain. A dedicated travel money app will help you to keep control of your finances, even when you can’t check the internet. Here are some of the best:

Trail Wallet

This easy to use expense tracker is a great way to keep an accurate record of your finances on the go. Designed to be incredibly intuitive and easy to use, you can make a note of all your expenses in a way that makes the best sense to you. Set up daily spending limits, view records of your recent outgoings, and upload images of receipts for multiple trips with custom start and end dates.

Perfect for use both at home and away, this clever little app will even let you input amounts in local currencies from over 200 countries , and you can update the app with the current exchange rate.

Trail Wallet can be used on both iPhone and iPad and is free for up to 25 items, or unlock unlimited amounts for continuous travel with the $4.99 upgrade.

Trabee Pocket

Trabee Pocket is available on both iOS and Android, and you can choose between the free version or additional services in the paid-for version. Even with the basic version, you can add the details of as many expenses as you like, covering various trips and destinations. You can choose your currency, and there are 8 basic categories to file your virtual expenses under.

You can add images of the physical receipt and produce an expense report and breakdown of expenditure using the data from each category . The upgrade costs around $2.49, and you can add multiple currencies and additional customized categories.

All in all, Trabee Pocket is sleek and an easy to use app that helps you to see how much you are spending and where you are spending it.

TripCoin is a concise and easy to use app that is available on iOS only. It is free to download , and there are no upgrade options at the present time. This smart app allows you to keep tabs on your spending at the touch of a button while making is super easy to add new entries when you need to.

Summary reports can quickly be compiled to let you see progress reports and spreadsheets, and you can even export the data to Excel, Numbers, Open Office, or Google to keep your inner accountant happy anywhere in the world.

Wally was designed to help anyone to manage their finances, anywhere in the world easily. It promises to offer a simple, seamless tool that works in an intuitive way, making it super easy to keep track of your money on the move.

The basic version allows you to add details of all of your regular incoming and outgoings as well as inputting your day to day expenditure, creating groups to manage joint accounts, and splitting payments with your friends when you need to.

It can be set to your local currency and lets you divide your outgoings into easy to find pre-set categories. Available on both iOs and Android, you can upgrade to the paid-for version for $24.99 a year to enjoy unlimited trips and categories.

This is a brilliant invention for anyone traveling with friends. Available on both iOS and Android, you can download it for free, but an in-app upgrade is available to Splitwise Pro. No more scrambling around with a pen and paper to split the bill, this app allows you and your buddies to keep track of your shared expenses and balances at the touch of a button.

You can add a bill, and choose how to split it, or send text or email requests to remind your friends and family that payments are now due. You can also categorize your expenses, calculate amounts in over 100 different currencies, and even sync all of your expenditures with the Cloud.

If you want to keep a more detailed record of your accounts, this little app will also export the data into easy to read CSV reports.

Before you worry about how to manage your finances while you are away, you will need to devise a plan that gives you the funds to get you there in the first place. Unless you have been blessed with a sudden windfall or a lottery win, you will need to save your cents to achieve your goals.

Set a Savings Timeline

If you receive a regular wage, or you are able to forecast your earnings accurately, you can start to set a timeline on how long it will take you to save up for your vacation . If you put aside just $100 a month, for example, you will be able to have $1200 to play with in just a year. This amount may not pay for a new life abroad, but it could you buy a week by the ocean.

Bottom Line: Think of where you want to go to, find out how much it will cost, and then set a monthly savings goal and stick to it. Some months you may have to sacrifice on your social life or shopping habits, but it will all be worth it in the end.

Multiple Savings Accounts

Once you know how much you need to save each month, be sure to physically remove that money from your day to day bank account. Set up at least 1 separate savings account and electronically move it , or set up an automated payment to leave your regular account on payday.

Visualization

Re-train your brain to save instead of spend, and you will be able to tally up every cent you save with something amazing . Your first $150 saved, for example, could mean that you have those tickets for that boat party in Miami in the bag, or that you are on your way to paying for a 4-star hotel instead of a mid-range one.

Whether you are dreaming of trekking up the Himalayas, backpacking around Asia, Interailing through Europe , or a long-awaited family vacation, seeing what your savings can afford will super motivate you to save more.

Wherever you are planning on traveling to, being in control of your finances will make your experience even more amazing. Worrying about getting into debt on your credit cards or not having the cash in your pocket to really explore the region will ruin your adventures.

Save hard, spend well, and look for ways to save money across every aspect of your trip. Plan your spending before you go and keep track of your expenditure while you travel. There are deals to be had on flights, accommodation, food, attractions, and almost every area of your next vacation. Plan in advance and enjoy knowing that you are having the best time for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can i travel with a low budget.

There are plenty of excellent places to travel on a low budget. Here are some great options:

• South Africa

How much should I budget for a trip?

There are lots of factors that make up how much you should budget for a trip. Where you are going, the time of year, your travel style, what you want to do, and how long are you going for are just some of the considerations. It’s best to work out exactly what the trip would cost, cut out anything you can do without, and go from there.

How do I stick to a budget while traveling?

The best way to stick to a budget while traveling is to keep track of all your expenses so you know exactly where you are against your budget. The easiest way of doing this is to use a travel budget and expenses up like Trail Wallet, Trabee Pocket, or Tripcoin.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Wondering how to travel on a budget? While it may seem like traveling is exclusive to those with cash to spare, you don’t have to overspend in order to get out of town. There are plenty of ways to travel on a budget — including using reward points or miles and traveling during ideal times— that can end up saving you a lot of money. Here's travel guide for beginners on a budget.

Start planning early

If this is your first big trip, odds are you’ve already started planning. That’s good — the sooner you start, the more time you have to save money . Travel prices rise and fall with demand, and the cycle fluctuates as your travel dates get closer.

Beginning your planning early gives you the best chance of finding discounted hotel rooms, cheaper flights and other less-expensive activities. Although you won’t find the cheapest prices far out in advance (as we mentioned, it’s a cycle) keeping an eye on rates will allow you to jump on them and book when they drop.

» Learn more: How to account for inflation in your travel budget

Book at the right time

This bears repeating. Why? Because when you book and when you travel can make a huge difference in the price of your vacation. This applies to flights and hotels.

Confused about when the "right time" to book will be? There are multiple free tools available online to help you.

One of the easiest to use is the price tracking tool available via Google Flights. This service lets you know how the fare you’re looking at purchasing compares with past pricing. It also lets you know if rates are high or low compared with average costs.

If the flight you’re considering does appear to be expensive, Google Flights also features a price tracker alert system that will email you when fares drop. You can toggle this feature on within the search bar.

According to Expedia, the best day of the week to buy your airline ticket is on Sunday.

Skip overpriced tours

There’s nothing like getting out into a new city to explore. But how much of that exploring can you do on your own? With the information available online, it’s simple and easy to conduct your own tour for free rather than paying for a guide.

If this doesn’t sound appealing to you, consider instead one of the many free tours that many major cities offer. These walking tours will give you tons of information about the area completely free of charge, though gratuities are welcomed.

Otherwise, apps such as Spotted By Locals , Tripadvisor and Rick Steves offer comprehensive information for many large cities. Often this is free, but sometimes you’ll need to pay a nominal fee.

Use reward points

One of our favorite ways to save money includes redeeming reward points for travel. Some of your biggest expenses, such as hotels and flights, can be wiped away by using reward points during your trip.

This type of travel takes planning; you’ll need to accrue enough points to make a travel redemption. Much of the time, this is accomplished through welcome bonuses earned when you open a travel credit card .

For example, a round-trip flight from Los Angeles to Paris costs $1,255 at the beginning of November 2022.

This same flight can be booked using 45,000 American Airlines miles .

While 45,000 miles may seem like a lot, you can earn this amount of miles with ease. For example, you can earn more than enough miles needed for this flight with the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® welcome bonus: Earn 50,000 AAdvantage® bonus miles after making your first purchase and paying the $99 annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days. The first purchase could be a stick of gum or a cup of coffee — it doesn’t matter.

Many co-branded airline credit cards also offer perks like free checked bags and priority boarding, saving you time and money.

The same can be said of hotel credit cards . Most major hotel chains have co-branded credit cards, including Hilton , Marriott , IHG , Hyatt , Choice and Wyndham . These credit cards — and their sign-up bonuses — can go a long way toward cutting costs on your vacation.

Even better, many of these credit cards offer complimentary elite status . Elite status can grant you perks such as free breakfast, room upgrades, free WiFi and late checkout.

It’s a good idea to consider booking hotel rooms using points, especially for budget family travel. Sometimes hotels charge more for additional people in your room, but these costs won’t translate to reward redemptions. You’ll generally pay the same standard price as long as you can all safely occupy the room.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Travel in the off-season

Along with using reward points, taking your trip during the offseason is another excellent way to save money. Each destination has a peak period of demand during which prices will be inflated.

This will include flights, hotels, tours and even dining, making traveling on a budget difficult. In Europe, the high season is in the summer, when most people come to visit.

During this time, flights will be at their most expensive. Remember the above example featuring that flight to Paris for $1,255? A similar flight during peak season will cost $2,070 round trip.

As you can see, even if you’re paying cash for your flights you’ll be saving over $800 by taking your trip when demand is lower.

» Learn more: Why "shoulder season" is the best time to travel

If you want to travel on a budget

Vacations don’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re a vacation veteran or a travel newbie, it’s easy to save on trips by starting planning early and keeping an eye on prices.

More importantly, taking advantage of reward points can significantly cut down on flight and hotel costs. Otherwise, traveling during the offseason can help drop expenses and allow you to travel on a budget.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

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A beginner's guide on how to plan your travel budget

Learn how to plan a budget for any vacation, including what to plan for in your budget, how to determine your daily budget, and how much money you should have available in case of emergencies

Sep 24, 2023

What's the best way to ruin an amazing vacation? By running out of money before it's over! 

Let's face it: budgets are a boring, yet necessary part of the travel planning process. You do not want to be in a foreign country and realize that you have no money left for food for the last three days of your trip. 

Put in a little thought and effort before you leave, and you'll save a whole lot of worry while you're there! 

There's so much to consider when planning a trip budget , and it can feel overwhelming at first. No worries, though, because I'm here to help! Today I'm going to share my approach to creating a travel budget.

How to budget for your travel

When creating a travel budget, I separate expenses into three categories:

• Preparation Expenses
• Actual Vacation Expenses
• Emergency Funds

You might also like:   The greatest travel hacking guide you need for a stress-free trip

1. Preparation Expenses

Preparation Expenses include all the money you must spend before you leave for your trip . Here are some examples of what will be included in your preparation expenses:

Passport and Visa 

These costs will vary greatly, depending on where you live and where you are traveling, but there's no way around them so be sure to do your research and make room for your passport and necessary visas in your budget.

Travel Insurance 

While travel insurance is not, strictly speaking, required, it is definitely a good idea. Especially if you will be traveling long-term, you should at least research your options. If you're traveling for more than a week, I highly recommend at least purchasing health insurance. 

You never know what might happen when you're abroad, and you certainly do not want to come home with thousands of dollars owed to a foreign country, all because you slipped on a rock while hiking or drank some unclean water. There are plenty of affordable options available.

Vaccinations 

Vaccinations  are usually relatively cheap, but they can save a whole lot of trouble later so go ahead, look up which ones are recommended for the areas you'll be traveling, and add them to your to-do list and budget.

Luggage/Travel Gear 

This is a very broad category, and it will depend entirely on what you already have and what you personally deem necessary. Suitcases, backpacks, money belts, cameras, international phone plans, activity-specific gear (for example, hiking boots, sleeping bags, etc.), neck pillows, basically whatever you need to make your life easier/more enjoyable while traveling goes in this category.

Transportation 

Here you will include the cost of planes, trains, and automobiles to get you where you want to go. Include major travel routes, not inner-city transportation here.

This list seems quite extensive, but the good news is you likely already have many of the more expensive items on the preparation list, such as a passport, luggage, and camera. Even if you don't, they can be considered investments for future travel as well.

More useful tips on Adventure planning: the best guide for your backpacking trip .

2. Actual Vacation Expenses

The next category, Actual Vacation Expenses, will look like this:

Accommodations 

Where will you be sleeping? Luckily, you're on Worldpackers, so there's  plenty of opportunities to keep this expense at $0 through work exchange.

Otherwise, this will be one of your biggest expenses. When planning, look up actual rates for your exact dates and destinations, as this can vary hugely depending on the time of year and other factors.

Food and Drink 

There is a lot of great information on how much you should budget for this, depending on your destination, on the internet.  Consider whether and how much alcohol you plan to consume and whether your accommodations offer free breakfast when planning your meal budget.

Tours/Activities 

The best way to plan for this is to make a list of all the activities and tours that you would like to do while you're vacationing and how much they cost

Small Transportation

Consider whether you'll be walking or whether you'll require a taxi or other means of transportation within your destination city and how much that will cost. Other options could include bicycle or motor scooter rentals.

This will depend on how many souvenirs you plan to purchase and what types. Familiarize yourself on Customs Duty regulations so there are no surprises upon reentry to your home country.

The upside is: this part of your budget should be much more fun to plan! 

Once you have a total for this part, divide it by the number of days that you will be traveling. 

For example: if I am vacationing for 10 days and the Vacation Expenses part of my budget totals $600, my math would look like this:

$600 total/10 days = $60/day

By dividing your budget into a set amount per day, it will be easier for you to keep track of your travel budget . 

There will likely be days where you spend a little more or a little less than your daily budget, but as long as they balance out there's no need to worry.

3. Emergency Funds

Finally, we have Emergency Funds. This is the money that you will have available but separate in case of emergency: stolen or lost credit cards, unforeseen but unavoidable expenses, etc. 

I recommend keeping emergency funds in cash and separated into two to three different stashes, kept in separate places during your trip. 

The reality is, unexpected expenses come up more often than not, and you should always have a backup plan! I recommend budgeting at least enough money for a couple days' meals and a couple nights' accommodations, as well as an emergency plane ticket back home, should you need to leave early.

Extra: money saving tips!

If your budget is coming out to be too expensive, consider these money saving tips:

• If your accommodations are too expensive, have you considered work exchange ? Hostels ? Airbnb ? Couchsurfing ?
• A good way to save money on food and drink is to lower your alcohol intake and shop for food at markets that you can prepare for yourself instead of eating out for every meal.
• Are you traveling during the high season? If so, that can affect the price of transportation, especially flights, accommodations, even activities and food sometimes! Consider visiting during a quieter time of year to save money.

Take your time when budgeting your trip. Plan carefully and be aware of how much you spend each day , and you will have a great time with no money worries! If you still need more help on how to lower your budget, check out my article about 7 actionable ways to save money while traveling!

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Kimberli Brown

I recently quit my day job to chase my dream of traveling full-time.

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Aug 01, 2020

Nov 08, 2020

Very needful advice! Loved it!

May 04, 2023

Jul 18, 2023

So helpful. Definitely going to plan how much I’ll spend per day to help budget!

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Free Travel Budget Calculator: Easily Make Your Vacation Budget

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Ready to take the hassle out of planning and managing your vacation budget? Our online Free Travel Budget Calculator is  simple, and easy to use, and can help you plan and track your vacation expenses in just a few clicks.  

I’ve used these same methods and categories of expenses for every trip I’ve taken over the last 25 years. From multiple  3 month solo adventures through Europe and South America, to weeks long trips to Cuba and Vancouver Island, Canada with my family. 

Now online with automatic calculations, so you don’t have to mess around with spreadsheets or hand write in printables that clutter up your home. 

In this post you’ll get access to this free tool, plus, you’ll get my top tips for planning your budget effectively for your trips and how to save money on travel. All the advice you need for smarter travel planning is right here.

Table of Contents

How to Use the Travel Budget Calculator & Try It Out!

Make sure to bookmark this page so you can come back to it anytime you need to track your vacation expenses and make travel plans.

This free vacation budget calculator will give you an estimate of total travel costs for your trip and whether your budget is enough to cover what you want to do.

It can help you identify areas you can potentially save money on trip expenses. Whether it’s choosing more budget-friendly hotels, walking or taking the bus instead of taxis, or prioritizing your top not-to-miss activities.

You can also start with your budget.

Then play around with the length of your trip, how much hotels, flights etc will cost to help you determine your price range for each travel expense as well.

• Enter 0 (zero) if there are certain categories you don’t need . The calculator will output an error ($NaN) if you don’t.
• Instructions for the calculator are below the Travel Budget Calculator, to give you an idea of what you should include under each budget item.

Vacation Budget Calculator

Calculator instructions.

Enter all your estimated expenses you’ve gathered during your vacation research.

Make sure it’s actually a realistic travel budget. For a  family trip with young kids, you’ll also need to factor other things like diapers, baby wipes etc.

• Travel Budget : Enter your overall vacation budget you have for this trip.
• Number of Travellers: Enter the number of people you are paying for on this trip
• Number of Nights: Enter the number of nights you will need accommodations for. This will be used to calculate hotel costs.
• Number of Vacation Days: Enter the number of days you will be on vacation. Include travel days to be safe . This will be used to calculate your overall food & drink, daily transportation and activity costs.
• Total Flight Costs: Enter the estimated total of flight costs for everyone travelling. Be sure to include any baggage fees.
• Transportation Costs: Enter the total transportation costs for the trip. This is for any major transport costs that aren’t flights like trains, city transfers, car or RV rentals.
• Daily Transportation Costs: Enter your anticipated daily transport costs. This is for things like taxis, buses, Ubers, parking costs etc, you might need to get around every day.
• Hotel Costs (Per Night): Enter the amount your accommodations will cost each night. Don’t forget to include any tips for housekeeping staff etc. you may need to pay.
• Total Tour Costs: Enter your overall total budget or cost for tours, including guide tips.
• Activity Costs (Per Day) : Enter the amount you expect to spend on activities daily (do not include tours). These are for things like seeing movies, souvenirs, shopping, trips to a rec centre / pool, bowling, seeing a hockey game or a concert etc.
• Food & Drink Costs (per Day): Enter your overall daily food & drink budget or expected costs for everyone. Don’t forget to include tips.
• Miscellaneous Expenses: Enter an amount of money you will have overall for unexpected expenses or miscellaneous costs that pop up. Be sure to also include extra travel expenses not covered elsewhere.
• Travel Insurance: Enter the overall amount of money you will pay for travel insurance for everyone. This is for things like travel health insurance, trip cancellation insurance etc.

Budget Outputs

Currency Note: While the output is in dollars (uses the $ symbol), you can really use any numerical currency you’d like. Just ignore the $ symbol.

Once you hit the calculate button, you will get 4 pieces of info based on the numbers you provided:

• Total Vacation Costs : This is the estimated cost for your vacation based on the info you provided.
• Over Budget / Under Budget: This is the amount you are either over or under budget. If your expenses are over your vacation budget, it will say Over Budget and the number will be negative. If it says Under Budget, that is the amount you are under your estimated budget.
• Travel Costs Per Day: This is the amount of money your trip will cost you each day.
• Cost Per Person Per Day: This is the amount of money your trip will cost you per person, each day.

Make sure to review your results. If your over budget are there things you can do to bring the costs down? Or is there a way you can save or make more money before your trip?

Why You Need A Travel Budget

Listen, I am all for spending a little extra to do things our family doesn’t get to do at home. 

But there is nothing more anxiety-inducing than running out of money on a trip, or having to pay off huge credit card bills at 28%  interest because you didn’t plan ahead.

This is where a vacation budget can really help. 

It doesn’t mean you can’t have fun or spend money.

Creating a budget will actually help you be able to afford your dreams. Plus be able to relax & have fun on your vacation knowing you won’t be in debt when you get back home.

The trip budget calculator will make financial planning fun, and easy.

How To Set Your Travel Budget & Determine Expenses

1. determine your overall travel budget.

First things first. Decide on your overall vacation budget or the money you are willing to spend on this trip.

When determining your overall vacation budget, you’ll want to consider a few things:

• How much money are you willing to spend on this trip?
• How much have you already saved?
• How long do you plan to go for? (more or less time can impact your budget)
• How many people will be travelling? (some places like Europe limit 4 people to a hotel room, this can significantly impact cost)
• When do you want to travel and how much time do you have to add to your vacation fund?
• How much extra can you afford to put away every week / month on top of your regular bills & household expenses?
• Is there any way you can decrease household expenses, or increase your income to add to your vacation fund faster?

Just make sure it’s a realistic budget. It doesn’t do anybody any good to use too low or too high numbers as a starting point. 

2. Do Your Research

The type of trip you want to take, the length and the type of activities you want to do, will really impact your budget.

For example a week long trip to Thailand will be much different than a week in Japan, or a trip to Disneyworld.

Do some intial research to give you an idea of what your basic travel expenses will costs, so you can have ballpark figures to enter in the travel cost calculator.

You can always google average costs of living / travelling at your destination.

Careful planning is an important part of any travel budget. 

3. Find Ways to Cut Costs

Unless you have a rich benefactor, or suddenly won the lottery, it’s a good idea to consider ways you can cut costs, save money and use your travel budget wisely.

Besides using our holiday budget calculator, our favourite ways to save money on travel expenses.

Transportation & Accommodation

• Find flight deals & error fares : The best way is with Going (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) Flight tickets can be a big expense and make up a good portion of the total cost usually. 
• Consider housesitting: is our go-to site for housesitting around the world.
• Rent a place with a kitchen : Save money on food with a vacation rental . They can also be cheaper than renting multiple hotel rooms if you have a large family or group.
• Compare car rentals: Using Discover Cars can help you save up to 70% by quickly comparing rental cars options.
• Book early: Hotels, flights and trains are generally cheaper booked in advance. You won’t want to risk paying significantly more waiting until last minute.
• Take public transportation: If it’s safe to do so, take the local bus, or walk instead of relying on expensive taxis all the time.

⭐️ Also check out our list of the best ways to save money on flights .

General Money Saving Tips

• Travel off season or peak season: Not only is it usually much cheaper, there’s usually fewer tourists.
• Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees : Those transaction fees can really add up. Also consider if travel credit cards with points are for you.
• Eat where the locals eat : Avoiding the touristy restuarants, and eating where the locals eat will not only save you lots of money, it will give you a more authentic look into their local cuisine and culture.
• Avoid popular destinations:  The most popular touristy destinations  often cost a lot of money, compared to smaller, lesser known destinations.  
• Consider using travel agents: Sometimes a travel agent can find you a great deal, with much less work on your part. 
• Adjust your travel style: Luxury resorts may be out of your price range. Road trips, camping trips can be just as memorable for for a family vacation.
• Plan free activities : Pick some free activities to do in between your more expensive tours, theme parks, & day trips to ancient ruins. 
• Check out these ways to save on flights

Final Thoughts Using The Vacation Budget Calendar

Creating a vacation budget might seem challenging, but don’t worry! Equipped with the right tools and a bit of strategic planning, your next epic adventure is closer than you think.

Using a vacation budget calculator can help guide you to make smart, affordable choices, allowing you to experience the journey you’ve always dreamed of, without stressing about expenses.

Travel can be exciting and enjoyable at all budget levels. So here’s to making memories with your family, and friends.

Related travel planning resources:

• Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist
• Family beach vacation tips
• Tips for saving money on road trips
• Easy ways to build a travel fund
• Save money on attractions: Where to buy online tour tickets

Donna Garrison is the founder of Packed for Life, an ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with her family. With a unique perspective on travelling on a budget gathered over 30 years, 20 countries and 5 continents she gives families the tools & resources they need to experience the joys of travelling more for less through practical solutions. She helps over 20,000 families a month plan & take the family travel, camping and road trip adventures of their dreams in Canada, the USA and around the world. Contact her at: Donna [at] packedforlife.com

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How to Make a Travel Budget in 5 Easy Steps (Free Planner)

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Creating a travel budget may seem like a hassle, but it’ll actually make your vacation more enjoyable. Knowing that you’ve already planned out how you’re going to pay for everything will help you relax and have a good time.

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Many people enjoy traveling the world, exploring new places, or just relaxing in a tranquil environment.

Taking a vacation is a great way to reduce stress and improve productivity, but traveling can be costly. Making a travel budget will make a big difference while planning your next getaway.

Those who love to travel should incorporate it as a line item in their monthly budgets. Each month, set aside a certain amount for travel in its own separate account.

Earmark that money specifically as a vacation budget so that it can be spent guilt-free. Money that is put toward trip expenses can simply be reimbursed from the travel account.

With that said, if there is outstanding debt that is difficult to pay off, planning an immediate vacation may not be a good idea. In this case, the priority should be to set up an emergency fund that includes three-to-six months’ worth of living expenses.

Why Is Budgeting for a Vacation Important?

While it is good to get into the habit of setting aside vacation funds every month, it is also important to create a budget for each individual trip. This will help determine how long it will take to build up enough money in the vacation account to pay for that trip. It will also allow for logistics to be planned out, while staying on budget.

Scheduling and budgeting for vacations can be very enjoyable. Researching hotel accommodations, restaurants, and free things to do helps to build up anticipation. It can be fun for the whole family to spend time together, figuring out the different parts of an upcoming trip.

How to Budget for A Vacation in 5 Simple Steps

When it comes time to map out those vacation expenses, a few key steps will help lead to success and worry-free traveling. Begin by drafting a well-rounded vacation budget, focusing on expenses in the following five main categories. Once these are figured out, the rest of the details will fall into place.

1. Choose a destination and preferred date

Start by picking a destination and nailing down travel dates. Remember that some locations are more expensive to visit than others. The time of year can also make a difference in pricing. Traveling done at peak tourist times usually costs more than off-season trips.

Be flexible

Being flexible is one of the easiest ways to save when budgeting for a vacation. Check out multiple travel destinations and compare prices before settling on options for lodging and airfare. Since these are two of the largest expenses in any travel budget, keeping them in check will go a long way toward helping to keep the overall cost down.

Be willing to look at alternative accommodations or stay at a place that is a little farther away from the tourist areas. Remember that most vacation time is spent outside the hotel room – so there is no reason to put a large chunk of the budget toward nice accommodations that will be used only for sleep.

Also, be flexible when choosing a travel date. Many travel search engines have a “flexible dates” option that can be used to research the lowest prices for airfare and lodging. Plan around these dates for added savings in the travel budget.

Consider the season

The time of year can really impact a travel budget. A lot of people have begun to plan weddings around their honeymoons, and not vise versa. For example, if the goal is to travel to Italy without spending a fortune or facing large crowds of tourists – while still enjoying nice weather – get married in early autumn, which is known as the shoulder season. It’s a great time of year to travel, because the weather is still nice, but the crowds have thinned out. Most people with children travel during the summer. Once the kids are back in school, prices for airfare and accommodations tend to drop, allowing people with more flexibility to travel cheaper.

Related: Make Money Renting Your Home with Airbnb While You’re on Vacation

2. Make a list of your major expenses (use a travel budget worksheet)

When drafting a travel budget worksheet, plan for the biggest expenses, including transportation, accommodations, and food, first. Getting those out of the way will greatly aid in putting together the overall vacation budget.

Research cheap travel deals (transportation)

Transportation costs for trips that are taken close to home will not be very high. But when airfare comes into the picture, the transportation line item will increase dramatically. Research multiple airlines for cheap travel deals, and consider taking connecting flights to cut down on the cost. If it’s feasible, check out the price of flights leaving from airports in nearby cities.

Flights on airlines to and from major airport hubs are usually lower in cost. For example, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines are both headquartered in Dallas. Flights on those airlines tend to be the cheapest travel to and from that area.

Research accommodations

Another large expense in any travel budget is lodging. There is a wide range of options to consider when it comes to picking out a place to stay, including hostels, hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, or apartments. Or, if a trip includes camping, those accommodations can include cabins and tents.

Rather than being brand-loyal to a particular hotel, utilize travel sites like Hotels.com to compare costs at different chains. After all, most travel time is spent sightseeing and exploring, not inside the room.

The closer accommodations are to major attractions, the more expensive they will be. Consider staying somewhere off the beaten path to save money.

When traveling with a group of people, split the cost of accommodations. For example, rent a house or condo with multiple rooms and divide the costs. If your destination is more remote, consider renting an RV. For as low as $175 per night, you can comfortably sleep 10 adults and still come in under $20 per person per day.

Budget for food

One of the trickiest line items in a vacation budget is food. To save some money in this area, choose a place to stay that has a kitchen – or at least a refrigerator and microwave. Eat some meals there, and then splurge a few times by going out to eat at local restaurants.

Another great way to save money on food is to stay in a bed and breakfast or a hotel that includes breakfast. Some chains like Homewood Suites or DoubleTree offer both a kitchen area and a hot breakfast, which helps in saving money . Drinks bought while eating out can quickly add to a bill, so buy wine or beer for the room to keep that travel budget in check.

When budgeting for meals, try going out for lunch instead of dinner. Lunch is usually cheaper than dinner, and many of the same options are offered for less. It is also usually not as tempting to order pricey alcoholic beverages during lunch.

Related: How to Find Cheap Gas Nearby (When You’re On the Go)

3. Make a list of smaller expenses

Once the larger expenses are planned out, figure out the extras, like sightseeing, entertainment, and gifts.

Research potential vacation activities and local places to visit. Go online to get an idea of the associated costs, and budget accordingly.

Don’t forget to plan for any necessary vaccines if traveling abroad, as well as gifts to take back home. Build a buffer into the budget to account for any surprise expenses. It’s always best to plan for more, and then spend less.

4. Determine the monthly savings

Once a rough vacation budget has been established, it’s time to figure out how to pay for it. Take the total amount and divide it by the number of months left until the trip. For example, if the vacation date is in nine months and the cost of the trip is approximately $2,700, $300 must be set aside every month.

If that amount seems too large, there are two options: adjust the timeline or make some extra money.

If necessary, push the trip out by a few months until enough money can be saved, or figure out how to bring in some extra income. There are many different ways to make money on the side, and help to reach that savings goal.

5. Vacation budgeting doesn’t end there

Those travel budgets won’t do much good if they aren’t followed. It is important to track costs and stay on top of spending while on vacation. Don’t stress out over every penny, but don’t go overboard, either. It wouldn’t be fun to see some nasty surprises on the bank or credit card statement later.

One of the easiest ways to track expenditures while traveling is with a budgeting tool like Personal Capital. Alternatively, keep on top of spending with an Excel spreadsheet or even with a pen and paper. Whatever the method, keep it updated and check it regularly.

Bonus Tip: Draft an itinerary

While it’s not necessary to create an itinerary when budgeting for a vacation, it really helps stay on track. The best way to do this is by using an Excel spreadsheet. Make a rough outline with a separate entry for each day of the vacation. Fill in all of the travel information and any scheduled activities like sightseeing tours.

Make a separate column to the side and list out all potential vacation activities. Group together any events that are in the same area of town and write down approximately how long each one would take. Now slot them in under the different day headers for either the morning or afternoon.

Try to group together activities or sightseeing that will occur in the same part of town. Food and restaurant options can be added in after the schedule is roughed out.

Itineraries are meant to be flexible, not restrictive. Move things around to find the right balance. Note the associated cost of each entry on the list.

Add all of the expenses together at the bottom of the spreadsheet to estimate the total travel budget. Remember that it’s not necessary to follow the itinerary word for word. Use it as a planning tool and focus on enjoying the trip.

Creating a Travel Budget Is Well Worth the Time

Even though it may seem like creating a travel budget can be a hassle, in the long run, it will make vacations far more enjoyable.

Having a vacation budget means not stressing about money after the trip. It allows for advanced planning and time to save up enough money. Budgeting for a vacation means that it will be easy to relax and have a good time, knowing that everything is in the budget and ready to be paid for.

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How to Budget for a Trip: The Easiest Travel Budgeting Method (+ Tips!)

Here’s a silly secret: I love budgeting travel… and I also think that most guides to creating a travel budget make it entirely too complicated.

I initially wrote this guide on how to budget for a trip almost 7 years ago, when we were prepping for what we were then calling a 6 month round the world trip (spoiler: depending on your definition of “trip”, it never actually ended).

50+ countries and the better part of a decade later, I’m still using the exact same, simple formula for calculating our budget while traveling–even if our definition of “on a budget” has changed over the years.

Planning to hit the road soon and wondering how much money you need for your trip?

Whether you’re headed off on a 2-week Europe trip or you’re planning to live out of a backpack for years like we did, our simple method for budgeting travel expenses has you covered.

Here’s the travel budget strategy that we swear by to this day!

Table of Contents

Our Formula for Creating a Travel Budget

Why we like this travel budgeting system, example of how to budget for a trip, tips for travel budgeting, planning a trip.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Here’s our incredible simple calculation for travel expenses:

(Money Saved – Major Expenses) / Number of Days Traveling = D aily Budget

That’s it–simple, easy to remember, and allows you to easily translate your savings from a pile of money into an actual travel budget.

Some long term travelers prefer to divide by the number of weeks instead of the number of days, on the premise that some days you may blow a large amount, and then have cheaper days to make up for it.

While that is 100% true and Jeremy and I definitely balance expensive days with inexpensive ones, I still prefer to think in terms of days.

In my experience, smaller numbers tend to be more easily tracked, and are less overwhelming as a result.

How to Define Major Travel Expenses

“Major expenses” can be somewhat of an ambiguous term, but I tend to use this for pricey plane tickets, travel insurance, and large monthly bills that you’re still responsible for during your trip (say, a car payment or health insurance). 

If you’re headed to any destinations that require a visa, be sure to include those costs as well!

For shorter trips, I also like to include lodging and certain cheaper transportation costs (night trains, budget airline flights, rental cars) here, but for long-term travel, that’s obviously not practical.

The point of the major expenses category is simply to remove the money that is allocated for specific expenses from play before determining how much you have to spend.

This is to avoid either a) running around feeling like you have more money than you do and overspending or b) anxiously fretting about the upcoming expense (like a plane ticket home) and saying no to things that you want to do because you’re needlessly stressed about not having enough money.

Personally, we’re much more likely to do the second.

Looking back on almost 7 years of travel, I can now definitively say that there have been more experiences than we’ve said no to when we should have jumped at the opportunity than times we splurged on an experience that wasn’t worth deducting from our calculated travel budget.

Luckily, thanks to this travel budgeting system, those experiences have been few and far between.

For us, this method of creating a travel budget works perfectly.

Thanks to careful tracking, we have never overspent on a trip, and we’ve also never worried much about money during our travels.

The worst that will happen is that we have a couple of pricey days in a row and follow it up with a day of inexpensive hiking or laying on the beach to make up for it (hardly a tragedy).

While I tend to track our daily expenses via mental estimates, I will write out cash expenses daily and credit card/more easily tracked expenses a couple of times a week–yes, even 7 years later.

It may seem like a drag, but 10 minutes of work can relieve a lot of stress and fear of the unknown that can come with just letting your money slip to the back of your mind.

(At least, it will be in the back of your mind until you start panicking over the thought of where your checking account balance might be when trying to fall asleep at night!).

Let’s say that a couple traveling is traveling to Paris from the USA for one week, and wants to calculate their travel budget.

In the interest of not searching too deeply for a pretend trip, I’ll say they buy the first flights they search for don’t stress about that too much. They’re also cautious and want travel insurance for their trip.

Our pretend couple has a $4000 travel budget, in total.

Major Travel Expenses for Our Mock Paris Trip

Round-Trip Flights to Paris: $2000

Travel Insurance : $150 

Hotel Room, $130/night for 7 nights: $910

($4000 total budget – $3060 major expenses) / 7 days = $134.28/day to spend, or $67.14/per person, per day.

I would round those down to $134 or $67, both for the ease of math and to build in a slightly conservative slant to the budget.

This would need to cover activities/tours, souvenirs/shopping, transportation while in Paris, and food/drinks.

That’s not only doable but completely comfortable in Paris, as long as our pretend couple is not hoping for luxury travel.

Know what’s worth it to you.

If you’re a major foodie, skimping on dining probably isn’t going to work for you–and if you’re a SCUBA lover, suggesting you limit dives on a beach trip may sound miserable.

Whatever your priorities are, focus on those and skimp on other areas, instead–even if other travelers consider the things you skip to be must-see sights.

Check in on your budget regularly.

Even if you don’t check in daily, be sure to track your budget at least every few days.

This will help keep you from blowing off course in either direction and also relieve any anxiety you have about not knowing the status of your budget.

Remember that traveling on a budget doesn’t mean having less fun!

Some of our favorite travel experiences cost little to nothing.

Browsing local markets, enjoying a beach day, going for a hike, wandering aimlessly through cities, sampling street food, and more all make for wonderful and incredibly memorable travel days.

Travel budgeting can be daunting when you get started, but once you get used to it, it enhances, rather than detracts from your experiences.

Not only are there wonderful travel experiences to be had at all budgets, but knowing where you are in your trip financially is much less stressful than constantly worrying that you’re over your travel budget… without having the concrete data to confirm either way.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

11 thoughts on “How to Budget for a Trip: The Easiest Travel Budgeting Method (+ Tips!)”

Excellent post. I was checking continuously this blog and I am impressed!

Extremely useful information specifically the last part 🙂 I care for such info a lot. I was looking for this particular information for a long time. Thank you and good luck.

Thank you! Appreciate you stopping by! 🙂

bookmarked!!, I love your site!

Another small thing to consider would be to convert your daily budget amount to local currency.

Great point, thanks for stopping by! 🙂

This is by far the best travel blog I have come across. Thank you!!!

So happy to hear that, DeElla!

Great info!

Good info. Thanks we will be traveling Italy for 28 days. The last 7 we are staying with friends. We don’t want to rent a car but use trains between towns and subway/buses in the cities. How do I budget for that? Are there month long passes for each? Excluding airfare we have $7000 food/transportation/entrance fees. Does that sound doable? We are flying into Rome, then Florence and take day trips from there, then ending up in Ugento. Any recommendations?

Thanks, Brenda!

You can definitely get around Italy without a car, that’s not a problem at all. $7000 for for 28 days on the ground also sounds reasonable (I’m assuming you’re traveling as a couple).

Trenitalia does have a monthly pass of sorts for trains, similar to the Eurail pass but for Italy only. However, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it without knowing your schedule. Most likely, booking each leg individually is fine.

For short distances in rural areas that you travel by bus, you won’t need online tickets or anything like that. Same for any “local” trains you take, like the slow train between Florence and Bologna. You can buy those tickets step by step as you go, as the prices are set.

Where the prices get higher and you’ll need to budget in advance is for the high-speed train routes around Italy, like from Florence to Lecce, for example. Those trains have dynamic pricing, so if you can book your tickets in advance, you’ll both spend less and be able to budget more easily.

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Travel Budget Worksheet

Are you planning a major trip? Will you be able to stay within your budget? Rather than just spending without a plan and then dealing with the debt for the next few years, use our travel budget template to list your travel expenses. It will help you estimate your total travel costs and see if you will be able to take your trip without going over budget.

License : Private Use (not for distribution or resale)

Authors: Jon Wittwer and Jim Wittwer

Description

This travel budget template makes it easy to enter your travel expenses for your next trip. The top section allows you to set a total budget, and as you enter your travel costs you can quickly see where the money is going, how much extra you'll have, or how much you'll need to add to your budget.

The worksheet is set up to let you enter a quantity and unit cost for each item. For example, for lodging you can enter the number of nights you will be staying and the cost per night. If you will be driving rather than flying, you can enter the total miles and the cost per mile. Remember to include both fuel and wear as part of the cost (see the link below for what the IRS uses as the standard mileage rate - $0.56/mile in 2014).

Additional Resources

• Be sure to check out our Travel Itinerary and Packing List templates.
• IRS Publication showing Standard Mileage Rates at irs.gov - You might consider using the standard mileage rate if you are estimating the cost of driving.
• Tips for Creating a Budget for Travel at wikihow.com - This article is actually a really good resource to help you remember what to consider when budgeting for a trip.

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Travel Budget Calculator

Your total travel cost, basic information, daily expenses, other expenses, custom expenses, frequently asked questions, what is a travel budget calculator, how do i use this calculator, what should i include in my travel budget.

When planning your trip, it is essential to include all potential expenses such as airfare, local transportation, accommodation, meals, entertainment, excursions, shopping, and emergency funds. Also consider smaller costs like tips, visas, and travel insurance, which can add up.

For local transportation, carefully evaluate your options. Are you renting a car at your destination to get around? Or perhaps you're considering taxis, riding the subway, or local buses? Using services like Uber might also be an option. Each choice comes with its own set of considerations and costs. For instance, if you’re renting a car, remember to account for additional taxes and fees, as well as the cost of parking, which can be particularly high in downtown areas. Conversely, if you're staying at a hotel in the city center, you might save on transportation costs by walking or utilizing the hotel’s complimentary shuttle services from the airport and then relying on public transportation to explore the area.

Furthermore, it's important to research the sights you want to see and plan your transportation accordingly. This preparation can help you determine the most cost-effective and convenient way to travel during your trip. Whether you choose a rental car, public transit, or another method, understanding the full scope of your transportation needs and costs will ensure a smoother, more enjoyable travel experience.

Can I add my own expenses to the Travel Budget Calculator?

Can i use this calculator for international trips, is the travel budget calculator suitable for planning group holidays, what strategies can help me save on vacation activities expenses.

To economize on vacation activities, here are some strategic tips you might consider:

• Purchase Tickets Early : Securing your tickets before your trip can lead to significant savings, as pre-booking often comes with discounts. This also helps you avoid long waits at attractions, allowing more time for enjoyment.
• Research Local Opportunities : Before your vacation begins, take the time to look into local activities and attractions. This not only builds anticipation for your trip but can also uncover less-known, cost-effective options.
• Utilize Discount Brochures : Keep an eye out for discount brochures available in hotels or local tourist centers. These brochures are filled with coupons and special offers for local attractions and day trips that might not be widely advertised.
• Opt for All-Inclusive Packages : When the cost of individual activities starts to accumulate, consider all-inclusive options. Resorts or theme parks that offer these packages include various activities at a reduced rate, giving you a clearer understanding of the total expense of your trip from the outset.

How can I bring my own food for the flight to save money?

What tips can help me save on the cost of food per day during my travels.

When aiming to reduce daily food costs while traveling, consider the following strategies:

• Avoid Airport and In-Flight Purchases : Airports are notorious for high food prices. To counter this, pack your own snacks and meals for your flight. This not just cuts costs but also ensures you have healthier and more satisfying options.
• Steer Clear of Room Service and Minibars : These are among the most overpriced services in hotels. Planning your meals ahead and avoiding the convenience of direct hotel dining can save a significant amount of money.
• Eat Like a Local : Instead of dining in tourist-centric restaurants, find where the locals eat. Local markets, grocery stores, and small eateries often offer delicious food at a fraction of the cost. Look for pre-made meals or food counters that sell regional specialties.
• Explore Local Beverages : Instead of indulging in expensive drinks at the hotel bar, try local breweries or wineries. Purchasing local brands can be cheaper and add a unique cultural experience to your trip.

By employing these tips, you can enjoy a rich culinary experience without splurging excessively, allowing you to indulge in other aspects of your journey.

How can I leverage personal connections to secure affordable lodging options?

Leveraging personal connections can significantly reduce lodging costs when planning a vacation. Start by reaching out to your network to inquire if anyone owns a vacation home, a lake house, or a rental property that might be unoccupied, particularly during the off-season. Such properties can often be made available to you, sometimes at a reduced cost or even for free, if the timing is right.

Additionally, consider proposing a vacation swap with friends who live in another part of the country. This arrangement involves you and your friend swapping homes for a period, which not only gives you both free accommodations but also the opportunity to explore a new area. You might also offer to house sit or pet sit for your friend during their vacation, providing them peace of mind and yourself a cost-effective place to stay. Such creative arrangements can lead to enjoyable and affordable vacation experiences by maximizing your personal relationships.

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Step-by-step guide to budgeting.

Discover practical strategies for budgeting, saving, and planning your financial future with our Step-by-Step Guide to Budgeting with Budget Calculators.

Creating a budget in 5 steps

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ROB SANGSTER’s Traveler's Tool Kit: How to Travel Absolutely Anywhere is essential reading for those setting out to see the world. It contains more than 500 pages of Rob’s road-tested information and advice on every aspect of independent world travel. When not traveling Rob writes and sails in LaHave, Nova Scotia, Canada. See his bio for his books and more articles written for Transitions Abroad.

Travel expenses list: A guide to managing your travel budget

Explore our travel expenses list and learn how to optimize your travel budget. Stay organized, track your spending, and make informed decisions with Accrue.

A travel expenses list is essential for mapping and managing your travel budget. It helps ensure you don’t overspend or underestimate the cost of your trip. You can keep track of planned and unplanned expenses, ensuring they fit within your overall budget.

Unfortunately, for most travelers, budgeting isn’t easy. The cost of airfare, accommodation, and meals vary greatly and can quickly add up. Without an organized strategy in place, it’s all too easy to blow your budget and end up with a mountain of debt.

Learn in this comprehensive guide the basics of creating a travel expenses list, including transportation, accommodations, food & beverage, and activities, and offer advice on saving money while traveling.

1. Transportation

Transportation costs refer to all your costs of moving from point A to point B. They account for the biggest chunk of most travel budgets and include:

Many travelers, especially those traveling for business purposes, prefer booking flights due to convenience, speed, and cost-effectiveness. Airfare is the amount you pay for the plane ticket and can vary greatly depending on the airline, route, and time of year. However, there are other additional airport expenses, such as luggage, taxes, and transfers you must factor into your budget. 

Car rental and gas

You may need a rental car at the destination to help you get around, especially if you plan to explore the area and take side trips. Depending on where you’re going and for how long, renting a car might be more cost-effective than using public transportation, taxis, or rideshares — factor in the rental cost, insurance, and gas. 

Other additional fees include parking fees, tolls, and pit stops on the road. If you’ll be driving a lot, look into getting a fuel-efficient car and research the average cost of gas in the area.

Public transit

Public transportation is typically the cheapest way to get around a city, especially if you plan on taking multiple trips. It includes subways, buses, ferries, and trains, each with its own rate. Buses, metro, and train tickets vary in price depending on the region. 

Consider buying a day pass or multipass to save transport money if you plan on taking multiple trips. Most cities also offer rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, which can be more cost-effective than driving a personal vehicle. Research the public transit options available at your destination to see which fits your budget.

Parking fees and tolls

If you plan to drive a lot during your trip, you might have to pay parking fees and tolls. Parking fees vary depending on the city and are usually hourly or daily. Some cities have free street parking but most paid lots and garages charge a fee. 

Tolls are charges for using certain roads and bridges. You can pay the tolls in advance or use a toll pass for the duration of your trip. Other expenses associated with car rentals include insurance, gas, and repairs.

2. Accommodations

Accommodation expenses are the costs of staying at a place during your trip. They include hotel stays, Airbnb rentals, hostels, and campsites. The prices vary depending on the accommodation type, amenities, and location — research various options to determine what works best for your budget.

Hotels and resorts

Hotels and resorts are the most common option for short-term stays. They can range from budget-friendly motels to luxurious five-star hotels and offer a range of amenities like swimming pools, spas, saunas, and fitness centers. 

Their prices depend on the location, star rating, and amenities. You will incur additional fees for hotel room service, extra beds, laundry, and other services. Book in advance or use hotel rewards and loyalty programs to save money .

Bed and breakfast (B&B) expenses

Bed and breakfast establishments offer a more affordable and intimate experience than hotels. They can range from private rooms in someone’s home to luxurious properties with multiple bedrooms. 

Prices usually include bed and breakfast, but you may be charged for extra amenities like housekeeping, dry cleaning, and Wi-Fi. Unlike hotels, you’ll be dealing directly with the owner, so it’s essential to read reviews and ask questions before booking.

Meal expenses also account for a considerable chunk of your travel budget, so it’s important to plan ahead and budget accordingly. How much money you spend on food depends on where you’re going, the type of food you like, and how often you plan to eat out. 

Local cuisine is usually the cheapest option, so find places that offer authentic dishes. Bringing snacks such as nuts, energy bars, and trail mix is always a good idea. You can save money by snacking instead of buying expensive meals. Ordinary meal expenses include:

Restaurants and dining out

Restaurant dining is the most common way to eat while on vacation or a business trip, but it can be costly. Prices vary depending on the type of restaurant, cuisine, and location. Fine dining establishments charge premium prices for their food and drinks, while casual eateries and fast food joints are more affordable. Check out local restaurants and read reviews before going out. Deals such as discounts for early birds or happy hours are creative ways to help you save on these expenses.

Street food and vendors

Street food is a popular option for travelers who want to indulge in the local culture and cuisine. Street vendors often serve traditional dishes at low prices. You can find food carts or stalls selling sandwiches, kebabs, tacos, and other dishes. However, be mindful of food safety and hygiene protocols to avoid getting sick. Research average prices for the area to make sure you’re not being overcharged.

Coffee and beverages

Coffee and beverages are usually the least expensive items on the menu. You can find coffee shops and cafes selling specialty drinks, like lattes, cappuccinos, and frappuccinos, at a fraction of the price of restaurants. 

Most places also offer tea, smoothies, juices, and other non-alcoholic drinks. Local markets will usually have cheaper options for bottled water and other beverages. For alcoholic drinks, look for local breweries, pubs, and bars and take advantage of happy hours and specials to save money.

Tipping and service charges

Tipping is common in many countries and is expected for certain services, such as restaurant meals and hotel stays. The tip amount varies depending on the quality of service and local customs. It’s usually 15-20% for a meal, but you can check with the restaurant or your server if in doubt. 

Service charges come with the bill and should be indicated on the menu. Allocate a portion of your travel budget to cover tips and service charges. Staff at hotels, restaurants, and other establishments rely on tips for their income, so be generous when you can.

4. Activities and entertainment

A vacation wouldn’t be complete without some fun and entertainment. You can find inexpensive or free activities to do depending on where you’re traveling. Museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions are usually free or have discounted admission for students and seniors. Typical expenses for activities and entertainment:

Sightseeing and attractions

Sightseeing is a big part of many people’s travel plans. Historical and cultural attractions, like monuments, churches, and museums, are usually the most popular sightseeing destinations. You can also visit theme parks, zoos, aquariums, and art galleries. 

Prices vary depending on the type of attraction, and access passes are usually cheaper than buying tickets for individual attractions. You can pay a small fee to take historical tours from locals, while in certain cities, free walking tours are also available.

Organized tours and excursions

The best and most fun-filled way to see a new place is to join an organized tour or excursion. Most cities have tours that take you to the must-see sights and attractions but you can also book day trips to castles, vineyards, or nature reserves. 

An organized tour covers entrance fees, transport, and sometimes meals. Compare rates and read customer reviews to find the best value for your money.

Outdoor activities

Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports are great ways to explore the local landscape. Many national parks and forests have trails for biking, horseback riding, and climbing. 

Some parks offer guided tours with experienced instructors. The guided tours usually include equipment rentals and safety gear, but you may incur park entrance or permit fees for certain activities.

Shows and performances

If you’re looking for a bit of culture, shows, and performances are a great way to spend an evening. Theaters and opera houses often have discounted prices for matinee shows or special performances. 

If you’re staying in a city, look out for street performers and enjoy free outdoor concerts. Cinemas are usually cheaper than live performances, so you can taste the local culture without breaking your budget.

Spa and wellness

Spa treatments are a great way to re-energize after a long flight or an intense sightseeing session. Some hotels offer complimentary spa treatments, while others have special deals for guests. 

Try a local massage parlor or a yoga studio if you want something more affordable. You will pay from a few dollars to hundreds, depending on your chosen services. Spa services usually include massages, facials, saunas, and steam rooms.

5. Shopping and souvenirs

Bringing back souvenirs is a fun part of any trip, but it can be easy to overspend on gifts for yourself and your loved ones. The cost of souvenirs depends on where you’re traveling and the type of item you want to buy. It’s common to bargain or haggle for lower prices in some places. Research the local currency and market prices to avoid getting ripped off. 

Travelers should also be aware of import laws and customs regulations. There may be restrictions on certain items such as food, alcohol, and tobacco.

6. Emergency and unprecedented expenses

Despite how well you plan your trip, there may be unexpected costs. Unforeseen events, such as a life-threatening medical emergency or natural disaster, can result in high expenses. Budget for emergency funds and purchase travel insurance to cover any medical costs or unexpected losses. 

Carry enough cash for emergencies, and use a debit or credit card for international purchases. Also, double-check your documents to ensure you have all the necessary visas and permits before your trip.

7. Currency exchange rates

Exchange rates make a huge difference when transferring money or paying in foreign currency. Compare current rates with those from the booking time to ensure you get the best deal. Check with your local bank or credit card provider for their rates and fees. 

You can also look up online currency converter tools to see how much you spend in your home currency. Be aware of hidden charges when exchanging money. Such hidden charges include ATM fees, commissions, and other administrative costs that can quickly add up.

Tips for managing travel expenses

Proper travel expense management is critical to a successful and enjoyable trip. Planning ahead and budgeting for each expense will help you manage your travel expenses.

Set daily spending limits and monitor your expenses

Estimate your total budget for the trip and then divide it into daily spending limits. This will help you stay on budget while still allowing you to enjoy the activities and attractions. Monitor your personal expenses throughout the trip to ensure you don’t exceed the budget.

Save money on product purchases with Accrue Savings

Saving money for travel expenses is a challenging feat. Juggling everyday expenses while saving for a trip can be overwhelming. Accrue Savings is a great way to save money for travel without having to scrimp and sacrifice everyday items. 

This easy-to-use service allows you to save money for travel expenses by automatically putting aside a portion of your everyday purchases. You only need to create a free Accrue account, fund your wallet, and track your progress. And there is no set amount you must contribute — save as little as $1 weekly or $50 monthly, depending on your flexibility.

Book everything in advance

Book flights, accommodations, and activities in advance to get the best deals and save on travel costs. Check for airline discounts or hotel loyalty programs, and watch for last-minute discounts and deals on attractions and activities.

Traveling during the off-peak season

Flights and accommodation prices tend to be higher during the peak season. Consider traveling during the off-peak season when prices are lower. Hotels usually offer discounts or special packages during this time, saving you money on accommodations. You may have to sacrifice some activities due to fewer available options, but you’ll get more bang for your buck.

Keep an eye out for discounts

Take advantage of discounts and special deals to save on out-of-pocket expenses. Look for coupons, student or senior discounts, and loyalty club memberships that offer discounts on activities and attractions. You can also find discount codes for car rentals, restaurants, and other services online. Business travel expenses, for instance, may be tax-deductible depending on your situation.

Save intelligently on your purchases Accrue Savings

Poor budgeting decisions can quickly put a damper on your trip. Accrue Savings provides a smart and easy way to save money for travel expenses while avoiding the risk of overspending.

It’s a great way to keep your travel expenses in check without missing out on the fun. Once you sign up and fund your wallet, you can track your progress and watch your savings grow. You will also earn rewards along the way to help you realize your travel dreams quickly. 

Register today and check out our partners to earn money toward your future travel expenses and purchases.

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Keeping track of costs when traveling becomes much easier with a bit of forward planning. Transportation, lodging, food and entertainment are some of the costs you’ll want to plan for. Plus, travel inflation has made it all the more important to establish a budget and make sure you can comfortably account for these expenses.

Creating a budget not only means understanding all the expenses you need to consider but also helps to serve as a guide for spending and can provide emotional security.

Travel expenses statistics

• On average, travelers spend about $225 per day for a trip within the U.S., excluding flight costs.
• The largest average spending category for travelers is accommodation; a hotel room for one person in the U.S. costs $102 a day on average, which is nearly half of the total cost for domestic travel.
• Transportation, on average, costs $36 a day in the U.S.
• Inflated costs have become a significant problem for American travelers — 57 percent say travel prices are higher than they’re accustomed to.
• Disruption to travel plans, whether due to inflated prices or other causes, sometimes hurts bank accounts, with 14 percent of those polled saying they lost money due to canceled or disrupted plans.
• Still, Americans don’t want to give up vacationing. A third say they’d rather scale back on their travel budget than not travel at all.

Sources: Budget Your Trip, Bankrate , Outdoorsy

Building a travel budget template

The key to building an effective travel budget is researching costs for the desired destination ahead of time. This can help you make informed decisions about where to allocate spending, where you can make room for savings and what you want to prioritize.

While some might find it easiest to create a budget template with paper and pencil, you can also use servers such as Excel or Google Sheets, or even a pre-made online template, to draft a budget. Another option to consider is a budgeting app . Some of these apps, such as Mint and TravelSpend, allow you to make a budget specifically for a vacation with automated suggestions.

Before drafting up the budget, you’ll want to evaluate your own finances and determine how much you can set aside for a vacation. Once you’ve researched costs of different spending categories for your travel destination, you can see how the total projected cost measures up to your available spending money. Then, make adjustments to the budget as necessary to match it up with your financial profile.

Here are the steps for best creating a travel budget and distributing funds according to your needs.

1. Designate necessities first

On any trip, you’ll need to eat, get around and have somewhere to sleep. Food, accommodations and transportation are three expenses you can’t avoid, and they’re going to make up the bulk of your budget. You’ll want to establish these categories in your budget first, since they are less flexible.

According to Budget Your Trip, accommodation costs make up for about 45 percent of travel expenses on average, excluding airfare, for domestic trips within the U.S. That cost can vary depending on where you’re staying. For example, an Airbnb or hostel might be cheaper than a hotel room.

It’s also important to consider the cost of airfare if you’ll be traveling by plane. As of November 6, 2022, the average cost for domestic, round-trip flights was $328, according to Hopper . The average cost of international, round-trip flights is $1,022. Under the transportation category of your budget, you may also want to add line items for different ways you’ll be getting around, including rail passes, car rentals or bike rentals.

When it comes to food, this expense can be highly variable. If you’re going to eat out everyday, the cost of food can be over $100 per day. You can significantly lower this cost if you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen and buy groceries to make your own meals.

It’s a good idea to add in extra costs for emergencies within your necessities, such as a last-minute accommodation change or having to take more expensive transportation.

2. Expenses for visas, travel insurance and vaccinations

Depending on the destination and length of your trip, visas and vaccinations might be necessary. You’ll need a visa to travel to countries that don’t have visa agreements with the home country of your passport. Search your destination country on Travel.State.Gov to find visa requirements and costs.

Certain vaccinations may be required by some countries, such as yellow fever or polio vaccines. If you’re pregnant or immunocompromised, you may need extra vaccines. You can find a travel clinic, which provides vaccinations for different countries’ requirements, at the International Society of Travel Medicine’s directory .

Meanwhile, travel insurance might be another budgeting category to add, especially if you’ll be engaging in high-risk activities while abroad or traveling to more niche destinations. The average cost of basic travel coverage , which includes trip cancellation and baggage loss, is $103. This estimate will vary depending on how comprehensive the plan you select is.

Plan to pay for these expenses well ahead of time, or you may have to pay higher costs for expedited services, which will eat into your budget more.

3. Prioritize your activity preferences

When it comes to activities and entertainment, it’s important to have a certain degree of flexibility so you can stay within your budget. You might not be able to do every activity that’s available to you, but setting aside a designated category for activity expenses will allow you to enjoy spontaneous adventures within the parameters of the budget.

The average daily cost for entertainment expenses while traveling in the U.S. is $43, according to Budget Your Trip.

Look into the costs of several activities that are most appealing to you and add these up while also factoring the extra cost of spontaneous activities into your estimate for this category.

There are many free activities or more affordable options, which can help you lower the cost of your activity category. Museums, parks and local markets are some ways you can enjoy a vacation at a lower cost.

4. Create a cushion for unplanned expenses

It’s always better to overestimate your travel costs, rather than end up scrambling to make room for various unplanned expenses. There’s a number of factors that might escape your planning, but you can get one step ahead of them by creating a budgeting category for unexpected costs.

Some common costs that might crop up during your trip include:

• Baggage fees
• Exchange rates and foreign transaction fees
• Tips (such as for dining or transportation)
• Medical emergencies
• Wi-Fi or roaming charges
• Hotel booking fees

If you end up spending less than what was set aside for unexpected expenses, you can always reallocate that money into other activities and purchases, such as an elevated dining experience or souvenirs.

5. Review and make adjustments

Now that you’ve established all of the spending categories to account for on your trip, it’s time to compare the budget you’ve created with your available funds.

If your total spending estimate is lower than what you actually have available for spending, then you can either save that extra money for a future trip or enhance one or several of the budgeting categories, such as adding in an extra activity or dining out more frequently.

If the estimate is over your available spending money, then you’ll need to cut costs in areas where you’re willing to compromise. There are a number of ways you can often find more affordable alternatives and save on travel expenses . You could also see if you have any travel rewards points from credit cards and use them to help cover some travel costs.

Bottom line

Researching your travel destination and estimating costs can help you avoid financial stress and potentially devastating credit card bills. A budget specific to travel is a great way to lay out your planned spending and identify your spending priorities.

If, after making the budget, you find that expenses exceed your available funds, you can always find ways to save on travel costs while you’re still in the planning stage or invest in a CD to boost your available spending money.

Lastly, don’t forget to convert currency if you’re traveling abroad, so you can stay on top of how much you’re spending.

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• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Planning Guide

Travel cost calculators for countries around the world.

Budget Your Trip is designed to help you plan a better vacation by gathering travel costs for various destinations around the world. Whether you're traveling on a shoestring budget, or looking to splurge on a luxury resort, our website will help you understand how to get the most for your money.

We offer travel planning resources that you can use to estimate, plan, and track your travel budget. Our information and resources are free of charge for travelers. If you're in the beginning stages of planning your trip, you can search for your destinations here , find your favorite place, and see what others have spent on low-end, mid-range, and luxury trips and vacations. Alternatively, you can select a country from the list of countries to find out what the typical mid-range travel costs are for that area. The costs are broken down by category and include everything from accommodation, to food, entertainment and transportation budgets. These destination budget pages also give you an overview of what to expect in your chosen country, things to see and do, how to best get around, and what you can expect from the local cuisine. From a country page, you can dive deeper into specific cities, too. This information is designed to be used as a starting point for you as you begin deciding where to go and how much you need to save.

All of our information comes from travelers just like you. All of the average daily travel costs are calculated from travel budgets that have been provided by real people who have already visited these locations. This way, you can get a realistic perspective on what you might spend. Our numbers are constantly updated to ensure that you get the most up-to-date information. If you register on our website (free) you can use our travel planning tools to help you plan your own budget before your trip even begins. You can break down your estimated expenses by category and see graphs and charts of where your money will likely go. Learn which cities and countries will have the greatest impact on your trip expenses, and rework your route to ensure that you get the most bang for your buck.

Then, once your trip begins, you can track your budget to make sure you don't overspend. Whether you're going on a one week holiday, or a one year odyssey, it helps to know that you're not spending more than you have saved. By tracking your budget on this website, you'll also be helping other travelers. If you notice your destination of choice is missing from our list, track your trip costs on our website and help future travelers. Your expenses will be added to our estimates, and as our data grows, so does our comprehensiveness and accuracy.

This is a tool that is created by travelers, for travelers. We understand how important budgeting is to a trip. Guidebooks may offer some budgeting advice, but information is often out-of-date, difficult to locate, and limited in its value. This website is supported by a community of travelers who want easy accessibility.

Are You Just Beginning?

Many travelers become overwhelmed when they begin planning their trip. If you're going on vacation for a few weeks, it's hard to narrow down your choices to one or two countries. If you're taking time off of work for a gap year, planning your route can get overwhelming to say the least. Whatever type of trip you're planning, you should first narrow your options down by region. Some parts of the world are more expensive than others, but within regions there is a lot of variability as well. You can also check out our travel planning guide for tips and advice on traveling cheaper.

Narrowing Your Options

The region or countries you decide to visit will dictate how much money your trip will require. It's best to understand costs before you begin your trip, so you know exactly what to expect from your destinations of choice.

Asia in particular has countries that range from super expensive, like Japan, to very low cost, like India or Nepal. Southeast Asia is well known as an affordable destination for those on a limited budget, but if you want a high end vacation, there are plenty of resorts in Thailand as well.

Africa can be surprisingly expensive for first time visits. Depending on your country of choice, the selection of hotels can be limited, restaurants may be overpriced, and safaris can quickly eat away at your budget. Still, you'll find plenty of affordable places to go in this vast continent. Ethiopia is an unexpected surprise for visitors who want to see a different side of Africa. Morocco is Africa with an Arab twist, and Kenya is probably your most affordable option if you're hoping to do a safari.

South America is another region that is reasonable in cost. Some countries, like Brazil, may quickly eat away at your budget, but others, like Bolivia, are perfect for those with limited financial options.

In Europe, you'll quickly find that your money goes a lot farther in the Eastern European countries than it does in the Western European countries. Still, prices can be quite high all over, so it's good to learn a few tricks, like couchsurfing, to ensure that your finances stay in check.

If you're headed to North America, national parks and small towns are usually the least expensive options. Consider traveling with a tent and you'll save yourself a lot of money. While hostels are few and far between, campgrounds are abundant, particularly near the most popular parks like the Grand Canyon and Yosemite. In Mexico, head inland and you'll find many more affordable choices than you would on the coast where luxury resorts are abundant.

The Caribbean Islands are not a popular option for independent travelers. You'll rarely find a backpacker spending time in the region, but if you're looking for a comfortable vacation with all the amenities, then you've found the right place to go. Despite the high costs, or perhaps because of them, it is important to understand which islands offer the best deals for cost conscious travelers.

Central America is a small region, but it has a lot to offer. It is a great introduction to a new culture, and your budget can be kept to a minimum. Still, if you're looking for a resort, you don't have to look far as there are many diverse places to stay in this fascinating area.

Many people shy away from the Middle East, but those that make the trip are greeted by a welcoming culture, friendly people, and a one of a kind experience. Countries are diverse in style, culture, and costs, so it's best to do your research ahead of time and choose places that will fit your travel style to ensure your trip is all that you hoped.

Australia and New Zealand are no longer budget destinations, but backpackers still flock to the area. By planning ahead and looking for the best deals you can ensure you get the most out of your trip.

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The 12 Best Budgeting Apps for Travelers

Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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While you’re stuck daydreaming about your next bucket-list vacation, why don’t you get a hold of your finances and make it a reality by first budgeting out your travel expenses? Whether it’s a road trip or international vacation that you’re planning, easily forgettable items like parking fees can add up. That’s why you should use a travel-specific budgeting app to help streamline your costs on your next trip. Here are 12 budget apps to help you plan your expenses.

PocketGuard

Link all of your financial accounts and cards to this app, and it will automatically update and categorize your spending in real time. It then tells you what spending money you have with the “in my pocket” feature. It also automatically builds you a spending budget based on income, bills, and the goals you set. It even finds ways to lower some of your monthly bills for you … sign us up.

Download: iOS | Google Play

Tripcoin lets you enter in your expenses per day and even works offline. It then processes your spending to give you a spending summary of your trip, which you can export for other uses. This lets you see how much you’re spending on each category of your trip, broken down by day, so you can monitor your vacation expenses in real time.

Download: iOS

9 Sneaky Travel Costs You Might Forget to Budget For

Trip Expense Manager

The Trip Expense Manager app is ideal for large traveling groups that need help planning and monitoring travel expenses. For each trip you take, you can add Google users, a list of places to go, and expenses, and even mark who paid which bill.

Download: Google Play

TravelSpend

I love TravelSpend for its easy-to-use features and simple design. How it works: You add expenses as they happen (the app works offline and even converts foreign currencies) and the app tracks your spending by total and by day. You can even follow your spending on a map throughout your vacation.

Wally connects to your current financial accounts and tracks your spending so you can get a handle on your cash flow and spending by category. Wally is useful because unlike some of the other budgeting apps, it lets you use private groups for managing trip spending or other budgets. You can even add reminders, notes, lists, documents, and comments.

Users love TripMate for its simplicity and easy-to-use features, plus it’s all free. This travel expense tracker app lets you create a trip and then add and remove users as needed. You can add expenses, receive a personalized summary, and even get hotel, and other booking-related information.

Trail Wallet

If you’re looking for a travel-specific budget tool and expense tracker, this is your best bet. Input your expenses into Trail Wallet and the app will split them up based on category so you can get a closer look at your spending. Note that only the first 25 items you enter are free.

11 Budget Travel Lies You Should Stop Believing Right Now

This travel expense app makes splitting costs a breeze. Simply invite your travel partners to the trip you’ve created on the app, and each person can enter in his or her expenses. Once the trip is over (and all expenses have been entered) you can see who owes whom what amount.

Splitwise is another useful cost-tracking platform that easily lets you split group expenses while traveling. You can split by percentage or shares, and it’s even available in offline mode. It’s great for international trips, too, as the app is available in seven languages and over 100 currencies. Plus, it’s integrated with Venmo and PayPal for easy payback.

Mint is so much more than just a travel expense app—it connects with all of your bank accounts to give you an overall summary of your cash flow. You can then easily create a budget for different categories, like saving for a vacation.

30 Essential Non-Travel Apps for Travelers

For those who have been involved in the planning of a bachelor or bachelorette party, you know the trials and tribulations that come with splitting large group expenses. This app was created specifically for those organizing large group trips and includes building an itinerary, polls, and chat features as well as ways to track payments and bar tabs within your group.

YNAB (You Need a Budget) is a popular software used for budgeting. While it’s slightly pricey ($84 annually), the positive reviews are endless. On the app version, you can set savings goals and itemize your vaca expenses. There is a free 34-day trial to get you started.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Single Travel: Essential Tips for Planning a Solo Trip
• 5 Ways to Stay Sane When Planning a Trip with Friends
• The 7 Best Trip Planner Apps for Travelers

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on  Twitter   and  Instagram   for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Travel Budget Templates in Google Sheets and Excel

Get the most out of your trip using our travel budget templates in google docs, sheets, word, and excel formats. plan all your expenses, including plane tickets, apartment or hotel booking, visas, car rental and others. choose from dozens of editable and printable designs in different colors.

Cute Travel Budget

Simple Travelling Budget

Bright Travel Budget

Yellow Travel Budget

Travel Budget

Travel Budget With Clouds

Year Travel Budget for Family

Pastel Travel Budget

Paris Trip Budget

Sea Travel Budget

Minimal Travel Budget

Orange Business Travel Budget

Traveling is always fun and interesting. However, travel is always associated with various kinds of expenses, which are best foreseen in advance. If you want to always be sure that you have chosen the right budget for your trip, then we recommend using any travel budgeting template from TheGoodocs . Our amazing Google Sheets templates are always the best option to save time and money.

Just imagine that you won't need to understand spreadsheet functionalities and built-in instruments, but you'll still get a professional, well-structured, and well-designed budget plan. We have a traveling budget template for any personal or business need. It does not matter if you work in a travel agency or just going on vacation and want to calculate its cost in advance. You will definitely find the right option only with us.

How do you like our offer? We advise you to study the list of advantages because of which our clients and visitors prefer our platform!

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How to budget for your trip, build a travel budget before you hit the road..

October 19, 2022 | 3 min read

Planning a big trip can be stressful, especially when you’re trying to do it on a budget. But knowing what you can afford, what you’ll need to spend and how to avoid overspending can help maximize the fun and minimize the stress. Here are a few ideas for building a travel expenses budget so you can feel as good about your finances as you do about your itinerary.

Start at home

If you don’t stick to an overall spending budget, you may find it hard to build and keep a travel budget. So start by figuring out exactly how you spend at home, making sure you have enough left over each month to put away in a savings account . If you don’t, search your budget for places to save. If you’re spending too much on á la carte workout classes or a gym membership, try online workout classes or free forms of exercise like running, biking and hiking to help keep costs down. Or hunt your bank statement for subscriptions , digital or otherwise, that you never use and cancel them. Once you’ve started padding your savings account, you’ll feel more confident about planning a big trip and building a budget for it.

Analyze that spending

The simplest way to figure out what you’ll spend on a trip is to look hard at where your money went on a previous trip. Using the website or app for your bank and credit cards, find every expenditure related to the trip, from your airfare to your cab ride home from the airport. Include things you bought for your trip (like new walking shoes or sunscreen) and things you bought during your trip (like souvenirs or dinner). Then, build a spreadsheet that summarizes what you spent in each category. It’s not the most fun evening activity, but analyzing past spending will offer a glimpse into how much you spent on food, drinks, taxis and other categories, helping you plan for your next trip.

If you’ve never traveled or are traveling abroad for the first time, you can still plan your travel budget. Using the categories in the next section and a little online sleuthing, you can do your best to estimate your trip costs. On your next trip, consider getting receipts as emails whenever possible, and take photos of your paper receipts. It can help you analyze your spending the next time around.

What travel expenses to budget for

If you’re not an experienced traveler, you may not know exactly how to budget for travel. So, start with categories. Imagine your trip from start to finish, focusing on how you’ll spend money along the way. As you go, create a travel budget worksheet that puts your spending into buckets. Those buckets will depend on where you’re traveling and how you like to travel. Planning an all-inclusive beach vacation will require different categories than a trip to a national park. But generally, the categories in your trip budget should include:

• Transportation. This includes how you get to and from your destination and how you get around when you get there. These days, many people are opting out of airplanes and trains in favor of more personal forms of travel, like rental cars. Make sure you’re taking these choices into consideration when you budget for things like gas, food pit stops, and prepping your car for a lot of road time. Then check out your options for how you’ll travel when you arrive—taxis, Lyfts, public transportation or just walking. It could be a good idea to add in some cushion in case your transportation needs shift once you get there.
• Lodging, including taxes and fees. This could be a big chunk of change, but luckily, you should know exactly how much it is before you leave.
• Food and drink. This depends on a lot of factors, including how you like to eat, where you’re traveling and how much you expect to tip. If you’re more comfortable grabbing take out or getting delivery, make sure you’re taking those extra fees into account.
• Activities like museum tickets, tours, excursions, golf outings, etc.
• Souvenirs—anything you might buy on your trip that you wouldn’t buy at home.

Look for places to save

Once you see how you spend, you may discover that traveling costs a lot more than you realize. If so, you may want to try traveling more cheaply.

Say your last trip included hundreds of dollars in spending on Lyft or taxis. Price out what it would cost to rent a car for the length of your trip, which is often the cheaper option.

Maybe your dinner bills regularly reached $100 on your last trip. Use local food blogs and magazines to seek out small, local eateries and street food vendors that will capture the local flavor while keeping your dinner tab manageable. Also consider staying near a farmers market or small grocery store, so you can try your hand at cooking meals with local ingredients.

Airfare often is the biggest expenditure on a trip budget, and right now, a lot of people just don’t feel comfortable with it. Instead, think about traveling by car. If you’re traveling with friends, make sure you’re keeping track of gas usage so you can split the cost later. Scope out the parking situation beforehand so you know where you can safely leave your car without racking up too high of a garage fee or getting an unexpected parking ticket.

Consider a staycation instead. If traveling away from home is something you don’t feel comfortable with right now or if it just isn’t in your current budget, planning a staycation could be a good alternative. You can still plan fun activities around the neighborhood, get your favorite take-out or go to your favorite local spot, or even set up a tent in the backyard. Finding some R&R with a staycation can give you the feeling of getting away, while being a lighter touch on your budget.

Adjust on the fly

Analyzing your spending after one trip might help you plan for the next. But it won’t keep you from sticking to your budget while you’re traveling. So, if money is tight, consider tracking your spending while you travel and comparing it daily against your trip budget planner.

One way to rein in your spending is to designate a daily budget for food, drinks and other costs. You may even set aside that amount in cash each day, so you know exactly how much you spend. Just be sure to bring along a debit card or credit card in case of an emergency.

Then, every afternoon, when you’re not wiped out but can use a short break, take a few minutes to see what you’ve spent. If you’ve overspent on food or drinks, consider something lighter for dinner. If you’ve already hit your target for activity spending, plan your next day around free sights. If you’re traveling somewhere that allows access to your favorite banking or budgeting app , use that. If not, bring a printout of your budget and just jot down what you spend in a notebook, then take a few minutes to compare.

If you stay on top of things, you might find it easier to stay on budget until your head hits the pillow the second you arrive home. You may even find that you have enough left over to start planning your next big adventure.

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How to Budget for Travel

So you’ve chosen the perfect holiday destination and have a rough idea of when you want to go. You’re next step is to figure out roughly how much it’s going to cost you and start saving!

My  how to budget for travel guide will help you work out how much money you’ll need for every aspect of your holiday. From the big ticket items like airfares, right down to the change in your pocket to pay for street snacks and subway tickets. I’ll touch on every expense you might have and help make the experience a little less daunting.

Budgeting Early is Important

If you don’t figure out how much this holiday is going to cost you right from the start, you won’t know if you can afford it in the time frame you are hoping for. You don’t want to get your hopes up or put a deposit on an airfare only to discover that you can’t afford to stay in a standard of accommodation you’re hoping too, or that you can’t afford to eat for most of the trip.

Having a budget in the initial planning phase stops you from having a massive blowout and spending way more than you originally expected. Your budget is what you will refer to and update regularly through the planning process and having it from the start gives you the bones of the holiday from which you can build on.

Where to Start

Start with a simple spreadsheet. It doesn’t have to be anything complicated, just a row for each type of expense and a column each for your budget, actual spend and difference so you can see how you’re tracking over time.

I also like to add a notes column to the end of each item so I can make a note of anything important. For example, the row for breakfast, I would type how many breakfasts I’ve budgeted for and at what cost per day. This way if the number of days changes I can quickly change the amount.

If you’re not sure where to start, I’ve created a sample budget spreadsheet for you which you can download below.

It is complete with formulas that do all the calculations for you. You can add and remove whatever rows are appropriate for your holiday.

Working out the Costs

Once you have your spreadsheet ready to go, you can start researching costs and add them in as you go. You don’t need to make any firm decisions about which suppliers you want to use or what you want to see and do yet. Just take a look around to get a rough idea of cost.

Let me break it down for you by going through each type of expense and how you can go about researching it.

There are a few types of transport costs you might encounter when booking and while on your holiday. Think airfares, car hire, gas, rail/bus tickets, transfers or public transport.

Basically you need to get to your destination somehow. Even if it’s in your own vehicle driving just a few hours away, you will still encounter the cost of gas.

Start your research by finding out what types of transport you will need on this holiday.

Obviously, if you’re travelling overseas or across a large country or continent you will need to start with airfares.

For research purposes, I use websites like Expedia or Skyscanner   for this. Input your destination, approximate dates, number of travellers and press search. This will bring up a bunch of different results from different airlines at different times of day, some via other destinations. You don’t need to go into specifics at this stage, just scroll through and average the costs.

Again, I use Expedia , so head over there and input your dates, pick up and drop off location(s) and any other specifications you might like including GPS, child seat etc.

Like with the airfare search, you will get a bunch of results from different car hire companies and different types of vehicles available. Have a quick think about the size of car you might like and look at the different prices for each car company. Note that there is a price difference between automatic and manual car rentals. Do an average and add this price to your budget.

If you’re planning on travelling by rail or bus during your trip you will need to find an average cost for this also. Unlike with airfares and car hire, there isn’t one website that covers the whole world for rail and bus tickets so you’re going to have to do a bit more looking around for this one.

I suggest you do an internet search, for example, “rail tickets Europe”. Depending on which country you’re from will depend on the results but usually you will find a reputable website on the first page of results that will provide you with a way to search for rough prices. Once you have an average cost, add it to the spreadsheet.

While transfers are generally minor costs, they do eventually add up when combined with the other costs and help to make your budget more accurate.

Do an internet search again, this time for the airport you will be transferring to/from. Most major airports will have a section on their website called something like “getting to/from the airport”. Click on that, and it is here that you are likely to find which airport transfer companies operate at this airport and sometimes this page may even have costs on it. If costs are not listed, visit the transfer company’s website to find them out. Add this cost to the spreadsheet and remember to factor in return transfers if needed.

Public Transport

Finally public transport. This is going to be the hardest to determine and will depend on where you are travelling to. If you’re headed to a big city then this cost will be higher than if you’re visiting a smaller city or town where you’ll likely get around on foot.

Do an internet search for the official public transport website for the city you are visiting. There you will find information on tickets and prices for passes etc. When I visit a big city I usually budget for around two trips on public transport per day.

This is something that not all of you will need to think about. If you are planning on going on an organised, multi-day guided tour, then this will be one of your biggest holiday costs.

If you haven’t selected a tour company yet, I recommend that you check out Intrepid . I have personally been on a few of their tours and have nothing but great things to say about them. They offer tours to all corners of the world and having something to suit all budgets and comfort levels.

Once you have chosen your tour, you’ll be able to see on the tour company’s website how much it will cost. Don’t forget to check the tour dossier for any additional fees like single supplement, entrance fees not included in the tour price or a trip kitty to be paid on arrival.

Accommodation

The next biggest expense for your holiday is likely to be your accommodation.

There are a number of different accommodation types ranging from top of the range luxury hotels and resorts; modest run of the mill hotels and chains; apartments; budget hotels; B&B’s; hostels; and even free accommodation like coachsurfing.

Here are our go to resources for each of these accommodation styles:

• Booking.com  – You can find just about every type of accommodation on Booking.com these days including luxury hotels and resorts, hotels in all price ranges, B&B’s and hostels.
• Airbnb – Unique apartments and rooms all over the world. (P.S. Get up to $45 AUD off with that link!)
• Couchsurfing – Exactly as the name says, find a couch, usually free, to sleep on in someone’s home. These aren’t always couches and sometime can be a bed or a whole room.

Once you’ve done research on one of the above websites, you should be able to find an average price from the options available and then add it to the spreadsheet.

If during your holiday you will be staying in more than one location, I suggest having a different row on the spreadsheet for each location to keep a better track of each cost. Some destinations are more expensive than others.

Sights & Activities

This is where a good guide book will come in handy. I always reference my trusty Lonely Planet at this point to get prices for the key attractions in the place I’m visiting. It’s quick and easy and you don’t need to make any firm decisions about what exactly you’re going to see and do, this is just to get an idea of price.

How much you plan to spend on sights and activities will be up to you and the destination you are visiting. If you’re spending nights in an all-inclusive resort where you plan to relax and do nothing, then this cost will likely be zero. However, if you’re visiting a big city, say Paris or New York, where a lot of the city’s must see attractions charge an entrance fee, then the costs of these will add up.

At this point you also need to think about any half and full day tours you might like to do. I use and recommend  GetYourGuide for day trips and tours. They have a wide range of tours in places all over the world and offer something to suit all budgets.

Once you have an idea of prices for sights, activities and tours you can determine an average price and add that to the spreadsheet.

Food & Drink

Working out how much you’re going to spend on food and drink will depend on what type of food experience you want to have.

If you love street food, don’t mind cooking your own meals from time to time in the hostel and drinking little or at backpacker bars then your budget will be very low. If, however you’re after fine dining experiences and lavish cocktails in flashy bars with equally flashy views, then your food budget will be high.

My food and drink budget is usually somewhere in between. I like to make a simple breakfast in the hostel (when staying in hostels), have a quick simple lunch on the go and finish the day off with a reasonable meal in a nice sit down restaurant. I don’t snack a lot throughout the day but might have an ice cream on a hot day or the odd street snack if I can’t help myself.

As an example, for Europe my average daily food budget following the above criteria is around €40 per person. This might seem a lot to budget travellers and too little to those who travel more up market.

It is also going to depend on which part of the world you are in. Most of SE Asia will cost you a small fraction of the price of most other regions and countries in the world. Australia is notorious for being expensive for food and parts of Europe and South America are up there too.

The Budget Your Trip website has estimated costs in three budget levels that should help you figure out how much you’ll need in each of your destinations. Once you have these, add them to the spreadsheet. And remember my earlier tip of using the notes column to mention how many meals you have budgeted for.

How much you want to spend on souvenirs and shopping when you travel is entirely up to you. Some people, like me, avoid buying souvenirs and shopping all together because it is extra weight on my back. But for others, shopping is part of the travel experience.

If there is something specific that you want to purchase in your destination then do a bit of research about how much it costs.

Closer to your trip if you have saved really well and have more than you need to cover the important expenses, then you might like to allow yourself a bit of shopping money. Really, it’s up to you. Just make sure that these expenses make it on your budget at some point before you leave.

Other Expenses

The biggest major expense you will have in this section is travel insurance. The cost of this is going to depend on where you are travelling to, from and what level of cover you are comfortable with.

When travelling overseas I use and recommend World Nomads .  They offer different levels of cover with something to suit everyone, cover a large range of destinations and are competitively priced.

Purchasing luggage, if this is your first trip, may also be a cost you need to factor in. If you’re after a backpack check out your local adventure stores and for suitcases try a department store. Online research is also a great idea to get an average price.

I also highly recommend having a good guide book or eBook with you before and during your travels. I personally love Lonely Planet but there are others that provide similar information for similar prices.

Bringing it All Together

By now your spreadsheet will be looking very full and you should have an idea of a total average budget. This of course can be tweaked at this stage if you feel it is too high or (very rarely) too low. You’ll have to really think about what is most important to you when you travel.

There are ways of reducing your budget with a bit of creative thinking. Here are a few of my tips:

• To reduce airfares consider budget airlines or indirect flights. Keep an eye out for sales or use airline miles to cover some of the costs.
• Forgo adding a GPS to your hire car and instead download offline maps using a good app to your smartphone.
• Mix it up a bit with your accommodation, especially on a long trip. If you like sleeping in luxury, try adding a few nights in a cheaper form of accommodation like an apartment.
• Research free activities and events going in your destination and look up museum websites for days they offer free entry.
• Have a picnic lunch from time to time with food purchased at a local market or supermarket. Not only is this cheaper but it will give you a great insight into the food that the locals eat.
• If you don’t travel too often, borrow luggage from friends and family to save you the cost of purchasing it yourself.
• Don’t settle for the cheapest travel insurance policy just because it’s cheaper. Remember that you get what you pay for and that sometimes spending that little bit more will save you in the long run.

Now it’s time to start saving!

Over to you!

What style of traveller are you? Budget, luxury or somewhere in between? Or does your budget vary from trip to trip like me?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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19 thoughts on “How to Budget for Travel”

Learning how to budget is extremely important! This shows you don’t have to break the bank to have a great travel experience!

That is very true Emma. Thanks for stopping by.

This is so helpful. Thanks for breaking it down easily. I love the spreadsheet. Planning a big vacation can often seem daunting, but this will sure help for our next big trip.

Thanks Gretta! I’m glad this will be of help to you.

This is a great, comprehensive list Jen. I like how you’ve covered the various areas for each cost budget of travel such as cost of accommodation etc.

I always think it is wise to add in a contingency element. There is always unexpected costs or an emergency. Mind you travel insurance should help if you get a good policy.

I also vouch the idea of downloading offline maps to a phone, these are a great innovation.

Absolutely, a contingency is very important for those unexpected costs with or without travel insurance.

Hi! Great post, thanks for being so organized and covering ALL the possible areas of travel costs, especially the sneaky ones like travel insurance. I’m a frequent trip planner myself.

Rather than just downloading offline maps, did you know you can look up a map while you have service or wifi on your phone, and then follow yourself on the map via the GPS dot even when you lose service? It doesn’t always work, and you don’t get navigation, but most times you can at least track your location which helps me a ton.

Thanks Leslie and thanks too for sharing such a fantastic tip, i’d never thought of doing that.

Great breakdown! I think it’s important to figure out a ‘daily budget’ once you’ve saved.

Thanks Dannielle. Totally agree.

Thank you so much for this article. I’m so gonna refer to this for my NZ trip January next year! 🙂

Awesome! Have a great time.

We’re traveling to Europe in April and your spreadsheet example has been really helpful!! Thanks 🙂

So glad I could help Nicole. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions about your trip. We are always happy to help out where we can. Hope you have an amazing time!

Yes, it is possible to travel wisely. Our family of four spent almost 3 weeks in the Dominican Republic earlier this year and paid cash! It was amazing! Thanks for sharing tips on how to plan and budget for vacation.

Well done Aja. I think everyone should be like that too!

Absolutely helpful! Great tips and websites for research, I am a planner, I still find new websites, blogs to read that help me to improve my planning skills.

You are awesome!

Thanks Celestina!

Your budget sheet is going to be a huge help.

Thanks so much for sending this.

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30 places to travel on a budget

Updated On 28th February, 2024

Travelling on a budget is a win-win situation, really. You get to have just as much fun and adventure, without breaking the bank.

Anyone who’s followed me for a while now knows that I  love  a good bargain. And for me, this is so important when I’m travelling. Yes,  luxury travel  has it’s place and I’ve been fortunate enough to go on some pretty epic,  deluxe adventures . But, some of my favourite travel memories have been from the cheaper trips: trips where I consciously tried to travel on the cheap and save money for more adventures later down the line.

Check out my  top tips for travelling on a budget here!

SEE ALL MY BUDGET TRAVEL ADVENTURES HERE

SEE ALL MY MONEY SAVING TRAVEL TIPS HERE

In this blog post I’m going to share some of the best places to travel on a budget. There are cheap destinations all over the world, it’s just a case of choosing one and then planning your next adventure!  See my top tips for planning your next trip here.

Note:  the budget destinations I’m sharing in this post reflect the cost on the ground, when you get there. This list doesn’t take into account getting to your chosen destination, because flight prices vary depending on where you’re coming from. However, please do factor this into your costs when looking into budget travel options!  To check flight deals on Skyscanner, click here.

Note:  The daily budgets suggested in this blog post don’t include flights, and are approximate budgets for shoestring backpackers. If you prefer something a bit more lavish, you’ll need to account for this in your planning!

Here are 30 of the best places to travel on a budget…

Asia is an excellent place to travel on a budget, because of the cost of living there. In many countries in this vast and diverse continent you can sleep and eat for less than £10 a day (combined!), leaving you more of your budget for activities and tours… or, if you don’t want to do these, giving you a very cheap adventure!

Here are a few of my favourite places to travel on a budget in Asia…

1. indonesia.

Approximate daily budget: Rp 300000/day  (≈£16/€18/$20 USD)

A country that I’ve fallen in love with time and time again, Indonesia really is a great place for budget travel. I’d say it’s one of the cheapest places to travel in Asia, or even in the world! From the famous island of  Bali , to the smaller, less travel islands that are equally as beautiful, and the larger islands of Java and Sumatra, Indonesia provides plenty of opportunity for adventure on a budget.

Check out my post on budgeting for Bali here.

EXPLORE INDONESIA ON MY BLOG HERE

2. The Philippines

Approximate daily budget: ₱ 1000/day  (≈£16/€18/$20 USD).

The Philippines is a destination that  changed my approach to travel , and I can’t wait to return there one day. From the stunning beaches to the deep blue lagoons, you can really have a ‘luxury’ holiday on a backpacker budget in the Philippines! The Philippines is also one of the cheapest places to do adrenaline-rushing activities such as canyoneering, skydiving, paragliding, and swimming with whale sharks.  Check out my experience of canyoneering here.

EXPLORE THE PHILIPPINES ON MY BLOG HERE

Approximate daily budget: रू 2500/day  (≈£17/€19/$20 USD).

This small country in the Himalayas is a cheap and safe destination for every backpacker. Nepal is really popular for its trekking, so if you want to join guided treks, you may be closer to the top end of the budget. I’d love to incorporate a trek with relxing in Pokara and exploring Chitwan National Park!

Preparing for a trekking holiday? Check out my  beginner’s guide to hiking here.

Approximate daily budget: ₹ 1350/day  (≈£14.50/€16.50/$17.50 USD).

India has been on my bucket list for such a long time, and so it’s even better that it can be done on a backpacker budget! From the mountains in Ladakh, to the tropical haven of Goa, and the beaches of Kerala to the hustle and bustle of Dehli… I cannot wait to go and explore!

India Google Map Legend

Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all my pins are at the touch of your fingertips.

5. Cambodia

Approximate daily budget: 82000 r/day  (≈£16.50/€18.50/$20 USD).

I first went to  Cambodia during my first solo backpacking trip , and loved it. A country with a complex history worth learning about while you’re here, but also with beautiful islands, beaches and mountains, as well as the famous Angkor Wat.

EXPLORE CAMBODIA ON MY BLOG HERE

6. Malaysia

Approximate daily budget: RM 100/day  (≈£19/€21/$23 USD).

Budgets for Malaysia depend entirely on where you stay;  Kuala Lumpur  is a lot more expensive than the rest of the country. I’d love to spend more time in Malaysia and explore more of the jungle and the islands.

EXPLORE MALAYSIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Approximate daily budget: ₭ 180000/day  (≈£16.50/€18.50/$20 USD).

This landlocked Asian country is often overlooked by backpackers, who often visit just for a visa run. Take some time to explore the caves, mountains and culture in Laos, and I can guarantee you’ll be surprised!

8. Pakistan

Approximate daily budget: Rs 3000/day  (≈£15/€17/$19 USD).

Tensions in Pakistan in recent years have subsided, and I’ve heard that it’s a beautiful country to explore. From the stunning mountains to the cities full of culture and colour, Pakistan can offer something to every budget traveller!

Note: The visa application for Pakistan is long – just something to be aware of! You also need a ‘Letter of Invitation’ from a tour company, so you’ll have to book onto a tour for at least part of your trip.

Approximate daily budget: ₫ 400000/day  (≈£14/€16/$22.50 USD).

I loved exploring Vietnam during my solo backpacking trip and I’d return in a heartbeat. As well as rediscovering Hanoi, I’d love to see more of the waterfalls, beaches and National Parks this beautiful country has to offer.

Check out my backpackers guide to Hanoi here.

EXPLORE VIETNAM ON MY BLOG HERE

10. Thailand

Approximate daily budget: ฿ 800/day  (≈£20/€23/$25 USD).

Thailand was the first place I went on my first backpacking adventure, back in 2013. The islands, jungles and cities stole a piece of my heart forever. Thailand… I promise I’ll be back soon!

Remember that the north is cheaper than the south!  Check out my budgeting guide for Thailand here.

EXPLORE THAILAND ON MY BLOG HERE

11. Sri Lanka

Approximate daily budget: රු, Rs 4700/day  (≈£21/€23/$25 USD).

This small island off the coast of India is well worth exploring. Beaches, surfing, wildlife, hiking, waterfalls, wellness… you name it, Sri Lanka’s got it, and all on a budget!

EXPLORE ASIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Backpacking for the first time? Check out this  bucket list of destinations for the first-time backpacker!

Sri Lanka Google Map Legend

Central america.

There are a few big gaps to fill on my travel bucket list, and Central America is one of them! Having put together this list of budget destinations, I now have even more of an urge to go…

Here are a few cheap places to visit in Central America…

Approximate daily budget: Mex$ 700/day  (≈£25/€27/$30 USD).

Mexico is a really diverse country and how much you spend really depends on where you want to go. For a budget adventure, avoid tourist hotspots like Cancun, and head to the hidden gems such as Baja California and Oaxaca.

13. Guatemala

Approximate daily budget: Q 200/day  (≈£21.50/€24/$26 USD).

A unique destination for your list, Guatemala is home on Mayan ruins, dense rain forests, cascading waterfalls, black sand beaches and more!

Travelling sustainably helps the planet and also your budget, for example taking a reusable water bottle so you don’t have to pay for water!  Here are 15 tips for travelling sustainably.

14. Nicaragua

Approximate daily budget: C$ 600/day  (≈£15/€16.50/$18 USD).

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest countries in Central America. If you’re backpacking across Central America and you’re on a budget, you’d be wise to spend more time here than the more expensive likes of Costa Rica. The beaches, cities and islands are all worth exploring here, and you can even go and see the lava bubbling inside a volcano near Managua!

Cuba is one of the lesser travelled Caribbean countries. There are a lot of rumours that Cuba is expensive and difficult to travel around, but this is not the case! As long as you are happy to travel like a local (local buses), eat like a local (street food), and sleep in dorms, there’s no reason why Cuba can’t be a really cheap place to travel!

One strange thing about Cuba is the dual currency… the ‘local’ National Peso (CUP) and the ‘tourist’ convertible Cuban Peso (CUC). It reflects the wealth of tourists compared to the locals. Advice seems to be that you will need both currencies, but it’s much more expensive to travel on a CUC budget, so use the National Peso where you can!

• 25 National Pesos (CUP) = 1 Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC)
• 1 Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) = $1 USD

This is why it’s harder to give an  approximately daily budget  for Cuba… it can be anywhere from  $15-50 USD (£12-40/€14-46)  depending on your backpacking style and the currency you use! But, you can definitely travel Cuba on the lower end of that budget relatively easily using the National Peso.

EXPLORE THE CARIBBEAN ON MY BLOG HERE

SOUTH AMERICA

Another huge destination on my travel bucket list, South America is somewhere that I can’t wait to take my backpack and explore. Most of South America is quite cheap, so it was hard to choose which ones to feature on this list, but if you have any other favourites then do let me know!

Here are some budget destinations in South America…

16. ecuador.

Approximate daily budget: $25 USD/day  (≈£21/€23).

There is more to Ecuador than the Galapagos Islands, which as stunning as they are, come at a huge cost. Naturally if you book onto group excursions to see the Amazon rain forest or the Andes mountains then you will spend more money, but there are plenty of budget options available. The cities of Quito and Baños are also well worth spending some time in!

17. Bolivia

Approximate daily budget: Bs 150/day  (≈£18/€20/$22 USD).

Bolivia is said to be one of the cheapest, safest and most beautiful countries in South America! I’d love to explore the world-famous salt flats, rain forest and Lake Titicaca.

For  top tips travelling solo as a female, check out my guide here !

18. Colombia

Approximate daily budget: COL$ 120000/day  (≈£25/€28/$30 USD).

When I get to backpack through Colombia, I’d love to explore the city of Bogota, hire a moped and explore Colombia’s countryside, use my  PADI  on the north coastline and hike the Cocora Valley!

Want to check out the reefs and explore the deep blue?  Here’s my guide to getting PADI certified.

Africa is the most diverse continent I’ve visited. Mountains, desert, lakes, coral reef, rain forest, savanna… And hundreds of opportunities for adventure!

Here are some budget adventures to have in Africa…

19. south africa.

Approximate daily budget: R 700/day  (≈£31/€35/$38 USD).

South Africa is where I went on my  budget safari . Yes, you read that correctly; not every safari has to cost you £100s per person, if not more! Sure, any kind of tour adds to your budget significantly, so avoid if you’re on a really tight budget, but if you’re after a once in a lifetime budget experience, this is the one.  Check out my budget safari guide here.

EXPLORE SOUTH AFRICA ON MY BLOG HERE

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

20. Tunisia

Approximate daily budget: د.ت 45/day  (≈£12.50/€14.50/$15.50 USD).

With 8 UNESCO world heritage sites, it’s no wonder that Tunisia was included on  Lonely Planet’s Best in travel 2020 list ! The city of Tunis looks beautiful, as does exploring the Sahara in a 4×4!

21. Morocco

Approximate daily budget: DH 250/day  (≈£21/€23/$25 USD).

With cities full of culture and colour, such as Fez and Marrakech, as well as the famous Casablanca, you’ll be pleased to hear that Morocco can be a really cheap place to travel!

Most of the budget destinations on this list can be travelled in even cheaper (as little as £10/day!) if you’re able/willing to free camp and cook for yourself for the whole trip, and don’t do any excursions.

22. Tanzania

Approximate daily budget: TSh 70000/day  (≈£25/€28/$30 USD).

Tanzania, in particular Zanzibar, has been on my bucket list forever. Get on Pinterest to check out pictures of the tropical beaches, and you’ll see exactly why. If you’re on a shoestring budget, it’s best to avoid Zanzibar, however, as it’s one of the more expensive parts of the country. The beach town of Pangani also has beautiful beaches, and Tanzania is another great destination for a budget safari. Paradise on a budget? Yes please!

EXPLORE AFRICA ON MY BLOG HERE

Europe, the continent I’m lucky enough to call home. For me, Europe is the perfect destination for a cheap break because it’s only a short flight or train journey away. But if you’re further away, don’t worry; the long flight will be worth it when you get there!

Here are some places to travel on a budget in Europe…

Approximate daily budget: 100 zł/day  (≈£20/€22/$24 USD).

An often overlooked destination, but one with plenty of adventure. Poznań and Wrocław are student cities, so naturally more budget friendly than Warsaw or  Krakow , but you can still get great deals there too!

EXPLORE POLAND ON MY BLOG HERE

24. Albania

Approximate daily budget: L 3400/day  (≈£25/€28/$30 USD).

Albania is the country that has taken me by surprise the most on my travelling journey so far. A country that I’d almost never heard of before my trip there, it surprised me with  a stunning coastline ,  a wonderful capital (Tirana) ,  beautiful natural surroundings , and plenty of adventure.

Check out more hidden gems in Europe in this blog post.

EXPLORE ALBANIA ON MY BLOG HERE

25. Georgia

Approximate daily budget: ₾80/day  (≈£21/€23/$25 USD).

An underrated destination with vibrant cities, beautiful national parks, and excellent wine. You had me at wine on a budget!

26. Romania

Approximate daily budget: L 100/day  (≈£18/€21/$23 USD).

With an eclectic history and a variety of things to do, Romania is great if you are travelling on a budget. Dracula’s castle, vibrant Bucharest, the Danube delta, brown bears and beaches, you will have a unique combination of everything you could possibly imagine, all in one budget friendly trip!

For safety tips for solo travel, check out these  12 ways to stay safe on your solo adventure!

27. Hungary

Approximate daily budget: Ft 9000/day  (≈£23/€25/$27 USD).

Budapest is one of the cheapest cities in Europe (budget accommodation starts from Ft 2000/night!), and it’s great fun to explore too! From the thermal baths to a beautiful castle, the Danube river bank and more, you won’t be short of things to do in this European city.

Check out 22 top tips for travelling in Europe in this blog post!

Approximate daily budget: €30/day  (≈£27/$32 USD).

Granted, some parts of Italy are really expensive (yes, I’m looking at you  Rome , Milan and Florence!). However, if you head further south to the city of Naples, or the regions of Calabria, Puglia or Sicily, you’re guaranteed to have a much cheaper trip with just as much fun!

If you want to head to a big city, expect to spend closer to €50/day.

EXPLORE ITALY ON MY BLOG HERE

29. Portugal

Portugal is a stunning country, and one of the cheapest in the Eurozone. Some of the best things to do in Portugal are hiking and exploring the beaches… both of which are free! Bonus!

The cities of Porto and Lisbon are also very backpacker budget friendly, making it really easy to explore everywhere on a budget.

Portugal Google Map Legend

For even more places to travel on a budget in Europe, check out  this post full of cheap European destinations!

EXPLORE EUROPE ON MY BLOG HERE

30. Australia

Approximate daily budget: $70 AUD/day  (≈£37/€41/$45 USD).

Australia is certainly not the cheapest place on this list, and not usually included on ‘travel on a budget’ bucket lists. But, if you really want to see Australia, it can be done on the cheap! If you stay in hostels and cook your own food, you have more money to spend on activities, which you can get really good deals on! From  Fraser Island and the Whitsundays  to  exploring Sydney , so much is available in Australia on a budget; you just have to look.  Check out my budgeting for backpacking Australia guide here

Australia Google Map Legend

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Have you travelled on a budget?

Where was your budget travel destination? I’d love to know!

Love as always and happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

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IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

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10 Travel Expenses You’re Forgetting in Your Vacation Budget

By Eden Ashley To cover the cost of my website and the time I spend writing these posts, sometimes I link to affiliate products. If you choose to buy through these links, thank you! It makes it possible for me to keep doing this. Disclosure Page

When it comes to planning and booking your next vacation, you’re probably just factoring the three big expenses into your travel budget:

• Transportation (airfare/ car rental)
• Accommodations (hotels, vacation home)
• Sightseeing (attractions, entertainment)

However, there are several smaller expenses that could eat up a big part of your travel budget. Many services in the travel industry which used to be complimentary are no longer free.

This is why I always recommend having extra room in your budget so you can cover these unexpected costs.

In order to help you plan and budget effectively for your next vacation, I’ve rounded up a list of 10 hidden travel expenses so you can avoid them and actually enjoy your trip.

Related Posts:

• 10 easy ways to make money traveling
• 70 travel hacks everyone should know
• 23 secrets to booking cheap flights

Table of Contents

1. Emergency expenses

Unfortunately unplanned expenses can arise when you’re on vacation, which is why it’s important to leave some wiggle room in your budget for these costs.

Emergency expenses can include:

• Getting an injury that is not covered by your travel insurance
• Missing your flight and having to pay out of pocket for another one
• Having to book different accommodations because you were unhappy with the original booking

When my sister and I traveled to New Orleans for her birthday, we missed our connection flight home due to weather delays. We were flying to from New Orleans to Toronto with a stop in New York City.

Because we missed our connecting flight due to weather delays, we had to take a flight home the following day. This meant we had to pay out of pocket for a hotel near the airport.

Fortunately we had extra money in our budget planned for emergencies to cover this cost. I like to use this Travel Planner to help me organize my vacation budget. It includes a vacation budget template to help you breakdown the cost of your trip and other helpful worksheets to plan your holiday.

2. Foreign transaction fees

If you’re traveling abroad, you’ll most likely encounter foreign transactions fees from your credit or debit card. These fees can quickly add up if you’re using your card a lot during your trip.

This is why I recommend using a card that has no foreign transaction fees. It’s also important to call your bank beforehand to let them know you’ll be traveling. This will ensure that you won’t run into any problems when using your card abroad.

Read Next: 20 things we forget to do before traveling internationally

3. Spontaneous travel activities

If you’re traveling to a new destination, it’s natural to want to see and do as much as you can. That’s why it’s important to leave room in your budget for spontaneous travel activities.

Whether it’s a rainy day and you need to do some unexpected indoor activities or you want to do a fun activity that’s unique to your travel destination, having a flexible budget can allow you to enjoy these spontaneous adventures.

I like to use this Acitivty Planner worksheet included in my Travel Planner to help me plan bucket list activities that I want to do on vacation. This helps me to figure out how much money to set aside in my vacation budget for activities.

4. Food and drink

Yes, food and drink costs are an obvious part of your travel budget. However, if you’re eating out for three meals a day plus snacks, these costs can add up quickly.

I recommend searching for restaurants in your budget before your trip. This will prevent you from having to search around for an affordable place to eat and help maximize your vacation time.

I like to use this Destination Planner worksheet included in my Travel Planner to help me research where I want to eat on vacation.

It’s also a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks to help you stay on budget. Head to a local grocery store or bring stuff from home. I like to bring granola bars to eat for snacks. This helps me save a lot of money on food costs.

5. Vaccinations and medications

Some countries require proof that you have received a vaccination before allowing you to enter the country. You may also want to get some of the recommend immunizations, which can be an effective way to prevent travel-related infections.

I like to follow this Pre-Vacation Checklist worksheet included in my Travel Planner to help me research anything I need to do before going on vacation.

Travel insurance doesn’t usually cover the costs of vaccination, but it can protect you from unexpected medical costs while you’re away.

I also recommend putting together a travel first aid kit . You’ll want to include band-aids, antibiotic ointment, gauze, Tylenol or Advil, anti-nausea medication, anti-diarrhea medication, and so on.

6. Items you forget to bring with y ou

This can include toiletries, proper clothing, footwear, sunscreen , an umbrella and more.

When I went on my first trip abroad to Italy, I forgot to bring proper footwear. I didn’t realize how much walking I’d be doing and literally broke my flats. Having to buy new shoes was an unexpected costs, which is why I’m more mindful about what I pack in my luggage.

Also, some items are not easy to find at your destination. For example, I noticed that it was hard to find affordable deodorant in South Korea, so I recommend making a packing list and checking it twice!

Related Post: 20 things we forget to do before going on vacation

7. Transportation costs (taxi and transit)

When flying to your destination, you’ll need to take public transportation, a shuttle car or a taxi to get to your hotel. It’s important to know how much each of these transportation methods will costs so you can plan accordingly.

When I went to New York City , I was planning on taking public transportation to get to my hotel. However, our flight was delayed by almost 9 hours so we arrived late at night and took a taxi to our hotel instead. Plans can change, so it’s good to have some extra cash on you to cover these expenses.

You’ll also want to budget for your daily transportation costs during your trip. If you plan on using the city’s public transportation a lot, it might be cheaper to buy a daily or weekly transit pass, instead of paying per ride.

8. Mobile phone charges

Our smartphones can be helpful when traveling. It’s a great way to take photos and keep in touch with family and friends back home.

Plus, I love using my smartphone to check for nearby restaurants and directions when traveling. However, if you’re not careful, roaming charges can cost a fortune.

To save money, I like to turn my phone on airplane mode and use free WiFi when traveling. If WiFi is not easily available, I like to buy an affordable Talk, Text and Data package (depending on my needs) before my trip.

I also recommend bringing a portable charger with you. This has been one of the best travel investments I’ve made. I never leave home without my portable charger.

9. Forgetting to store liquids in your checked luggage

Have you ever had to throw out liquid or gel products when going through airport security? I remember when I was coming home from South Korea, I bought a bunch of Korean skincare products and completely forgot to put them in my checked luggage .

I was questioned by airport security about why the products were in my carry-on bag . Airport security was ready to confiscate all my liquids and throw them out, but fortunately they looked at them closely and decided to let me keep everything.

Now I always remember to store liquid and gel products in my checked luggage , so I don’t have to worry about throwing anything out when I go through airport security.

10. Hidden hotel and resort fees

You just booked a fun trip to Vegas, but did you remember to include the hotel’s daily resort fee in your travel budget? Some hotels tack on resort fees, which can add an additional $25-$50+ to the cost of your nightly rate.

It’s important to be aware of what’s included and not included in your hotels’ advertised price. Is WiFi and parking included in your room rate for free?

Sometimes hotels can charge if you want extra towels, a rollaway bed, or daily maid service. I always recommend asking what’s included in the hotel room rate before booking.

Ready to book your next adventure? Click the link to find deals on hotels thanks to Booking.com .

Travel Expenses FAQs

What are some travel expenses.

Below are some common travel expenses that you’ll want to consider when planning your vacation.

Transportation

• Airfare (Checked luggage, Seat selection, On-flight meals & Entertainment)
• Car Rental (Gas, Car insurance, Tolls & Parking fees)
• Bus, Taxi, Train, Boat, Metro (Public Transportation)

Accommodations

• Hotel / Vacation rental / Camp sites
• Daily resort fee (for some hotels)
• Extra fees & Tips

Food & Drinks

• Restaurants
• Coffee / Tea
• Pubs & Bars
• Groceries & Snacks

Entertainment

• Organized tours
• Sightseeing & Attractions
• Nightlife / Concerts
• Shopping (Gifts, souvenirs)
• Spa treatments

Administrative Travel Expenses

• Travel insurance
• Passport / Visa / Travel documents
• Vaccinations & Medications
• Mobile phone fees / Calling card
• Currency exchange
• Maps / Guide books
• Pet / Child care

Misc. Travel Expenses

• Luggage / Carry-on bag (if necessary to purchase a new one)
• Toiletries (I like to pack mine in these handy travel-sized containers )
• Clothing you need to purchase for your trip
• Reading material for the plane
• Travel gear ( money belt , packing cubes , camera equipment , and so on)

About Eden Ashley

Eden has an MBA and a degree in Psychology. As a new mom (and homeowner), she knows the importance of having a budget that works. She's helped thousands of women get good with money using the same strategies she used to save $100,000 by age 25. Click here to learn how to create a better budget!

Bucket list travel on a budget: Expert tips for airfare, loyalty programs, credit card perks and more

Nicky Kelvin from The Points Guy dives into ways to save this summer.

Many travelers have their sights set on summer getaways , but with everything from baggage fees to fuel costs impacting the price of a ticket, "Good Morning America" is asking travel experts to share tips for booking bucket list destinations on a budget and finding savings along the way.

Travel expert Nicky Kelvin, senior director of content for The Points Guy, offered his tips for affordable travel techniques.

Where to find the best flight deals

Kelvin encourages travelers to utilize Google Flights and other free price-tracking tools to compare fare prices and snag the best deal.

He also suggests using both the calendar and map features within Google Flights to see which airports, dates and destinations how the lowest fare.

From the Google Flights homepage on a computer, click "explore destinations" and select a departure city without adding a destination. Then zoom out on the map to see the best prices for destinations all over the world.

Get the most out of free travel loyalty programs

Travelers should be earning points for anything and everything that they are buying or booking from airline and hotels to car rentals, Kelvin said.

In addition to the points that can can help travelers earn free flights and hotel stays, Kelvin said to look for extra perks just for joining.

Hyatt rewards, for example, offers all guests free breakfast.

For Thrifty Car Rental and Dollar Car Rental, he said you can add your spouse or domestic partner as an additional driver for free.

Loyalty programs are great for airlines too. JetBlue, for example, allows enrolled customers -- even if they don't have enough points for a flight -- to use points for discounts. Plus, with any airline, as you accumulate points to earn status, you can get free seating upgrades.

Travel credit cards with cash back perks

Along with earning points, travel credit cards give you protection for your trip like insurance to help with lost or damaged baggage and trip cancellation protection

Chase debuts new airport lounge: Gourmet menus, sleek interiors, free facials redefine hospitality for airport travel

As for credit cards, The Points Guy team suggests the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card as an all-around pick -- you get 75,000 miles after meeting your minimum spend in the first three months. Which Kelvin said is a value of over $1,300.

If you're looking to earn the most miles, he said look to the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

"You'll earn the most points on all your purchases with this one," he said.

Finally, if you want a credit card with no fee, Kelvin suggested the Bilt Mastercard, which he said is particularly great for renters because you can earn points on what's likely someone's biggest expense.

Editor’s Picks

Airlines required to refund passengers for canceled, delayed flights

Google reveals top destinations for summer vacation 2024

Venice follows other cities like Barcelona, Amsterdam with new entry fee

Save money on international phone plans for summer trips.

If someone's trip is taking them out of the country, using a cell phone internationally can cost $10 to 15 per day. For a family of four, that's more than $400 for a week.

If your phones support eSIM, Kelvin suggested purchasing a data plan for your destination through an app such as Airalo, Truphone or GigSky.

For example, one of Airalo's global SIM plans costs $9 for one week, which could save a family close to $350 dollars, depending on their existing international coverage.

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Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

• Albania Travel Guide
• Austria Travel Guide
• Belgium Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
• Bulgaria Travel Guide
• Czechia Travel Guide
• Croatia Travel Guide
• Denmark Travel Guide
• England Travel Guide
• Estonia Travel Guide
• Finland Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Germany Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Hungary Travel Guide
• Iceland Travel Guide
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Latvia Travel Guide
• Lithuania Travel Guide
• Malta Travel Guide
• Moldova Travel Guide
• Montenegro Travel Guide
• Netherlands Travel Guide
• Norway Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Poland Travel Guide
• Romania Travel Guide
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Slovakia Travel Guide
• Slovenia Travel Guide
• Spain Travel Guide
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

• Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
• Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
• Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
• Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
• Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
• Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
• Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
• Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

• The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
• Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
• Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
• Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
• Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
• Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
• Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
• Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
• Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
• City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

• 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
• Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in London

10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

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This Amtrak Train Offers Incredible Views Of Glacier National Park

3 grand canyon by train, onboard the amtrak southwest chief with amtrak vacations.

Grand Canyon National Park is the most-visited natural wonder in the world , receiving millions of visitors each year. Covering more than 270 miles of its surrounding uplands and the Colorado River, the park's crowning feature is the Grand Canyon, known for its layered bands of red rock with a rich million years of geological history.

All this can be experienced onboard the Amtrak Southwest Chief to the park in a four-day tour package with Amtrak Vacations, which begins in the town of Williams, the gateway to the Grand Canyon . From Williams, the train traverses through a scenic stretch of ponderosa pine forest to the park's South Rim, where the Grand Canyon gives its full glory!

Another yet affordable train tour package, this trip includes a Freedom Tour of Grand Canyon National Park, an amazing chance to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Look out for scenic overlooks with panoramic views of the canyon and the meandering Colorado River!

Amtrak Vacations also offers five-day and 10-day Grand Canyon package tours.

2 Ski Rail Tours - Northwest Montana

Onboard the amtrak empire builder with flathead travel.

Skiers will be delighted with this affordable Amtrak tour package for their bucket list trip to Northwest Montana to enjoy the thrills of skiing. Onboard the Amtrak Empire Builder with a tour package from Flathead Travel, skiers head to Whitefish Mountain Resort , a renowned and award-winning ski resort with beautiful vistas of the Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park on sunny days!

This cheap Amtrak tour package is part of the route of the Empire Builder in Montana, an underrated but beautiful state that gleams brightly in winter . Indeed, it's a great time for skiers to glide along Whitefish's spectacular ski trails, and Amtrak offers this tour package just for this trip.

This trip also includes a chance to rub elbows with the friendly locals of Whitefish, a beautiful ski town where Whitefish Mountain Resort is located, dotted with charming local shops, eateries, bars, and boutiques!

Go to Flathead Travel to plan your custom trip. Amtrak train travel to Whitefish offers special deals and promotions.

These Are The Three Best Places To Sit On Any Amtrak Train

1 washington dc by train, onboard the amtrak washington dc train routes with amtrak vacations.

There are many budget-friendly ways to experience Washington DC , including this affordable Amtrak tour package for an epic bucket list trip. See the US capital in its full glory with Amtrak Vacations onboard any of the 10 Amtrak routes: Acela Express, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Northeast Regional, Palmetto, Silver Meteor, Silver Star, and Vermonter.

On a four-day tour, passengers will be treated to the best of Washington DC, which boasts tons of top attractions —from neoclassical monuments to historic buildings featuring gorgeous architecture, such as the iconic Capitol, the White House, and the Supreme Court.

A hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour and monument tours are also included in this package—the ultimate ways to discover Washington DC in its prime!

The Best Luggage Brands to Buy in 2024

These are the top-tested suitcases for all of your travel needs.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks

Best Overall Luggage

Best Value Luggage

American tourister.

Best Carry-On Luggage

Best Luggage for International Travel

Briggs & riley.

Best Under-$100 Luggage

Amazon basics.

Best Luggage for Frequent Flyers

Best Viral Luggage

Best Luggage for Flight Crews

Best Printed Luggage

Best Fashion Luggage

Each piece of luggage is evaluated by experts in the Lab as well as consumer testers on the go. In the Lab, we look at factors like durability, ease of use and more. We also pack each suitcase with a standard load to see how much it can hold and how easy the compartments are to access. Consumer testers come into the Lab to use the luggage in an obstacle course, where they weigh in on handle comfort, wheel performance, maneuverability and more. Finally, we send luggage out with travelers into the real world for firsthand feedback.

You can learn more about how we test luggage and what to consider as you shop — including how to decide between hardside and softside luggage — but first, here's everything you need to know about our top-tested luggage brands.

Samsonite earns our top spot for the best luggage brand because it has a wide assortment for every preference — from business travelers to vacationers — and has continuously proven to be high quality as we've tested it over the years.

In particular, it stands out for its durability and ease-of-use features: There's been no struggling to open and close the cases, and packing them has been a breeze , thanks to the functional compartments that maximize space. It's certainly not inexpensive, but as direct-to-consumer luggage brand prices have skyrocketed, Samsonite's have remained fairly consistent.

Both hardside and softside styles from the brand have excelled in our tests. We've also been impressed by each of the sizes, including carry-ons, checked bags and underseat luggage. Some of our favorite models include the Freeform hardside (pictured here), the Solyte DLX softside and the Stryde Glyder , which is a checked case that's wide instead of tall so it's less likely to tip over.

A consumer tester rolling the Samsonite Freeform carry-on through an obstacle course at the Good Housekeeping Institute.

If you're on a budget or you don’t use luggage regularly — i.e., it doesn’t need to be the most durable and you don’t need all the bells and whistles — American Tourister offers competitive pricing and an excellent variety to choose from . There are a lot of options if you prefer bright colors and fun prints, plus there are cases for the entire family, including a Disney collection . Between the designs and versatile offerings, the models are fun, functional and especially ideal for vacationers.

Just note that while luxury hardside cases are usually made of polycarbonate, American Tourister typically uses ABS plastic, which is more affordable but more prone to scratches. Still, it gets high ratings from online reviewers who note that the bags are surprisingly spacious. Another perk: The brand offers luggage sets for an even better value, especially if you need to purchase multiple pieces. Pictured here is the Pop Max Softside set , which at $150 for a set of three, is less than other single cases.

Away is one of the most popular luggage brands on the market, and our testing shows it actually lives up to its hype. Though the brand has a wide range of offerings, we especially love the hardside carry-on.

It's made of 100% polycarbonate that proved to be durable and lightweight in our evaluations — even lighter than some fabric bags we’ve tested. It was also surprisingly spacious and held a full packing load in our review. The company offers a 100-day return policy on unused items; it also offers a lifetime limited warranty on its suitcases that covers any "functional damage."

Besides the main Carry-On model , it comes in variations like a Bigger Carry-On (which the brand says can hold 20% more) and a Carry-On Flex (which has an expandable zipper). We also love the brand's Everywhere Bag , which is a stylish and surprisingly spacious weekender.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: We Tested Away's Trendy Carry-On to See If It's Worth The Price

An inside view of Away's The Carry On.

Briggs & Riley

Briggs & Riley bags are pricey — a carry-on can cost over $600 — but they come with a lifetime guarantee that will cover all repairs if the luggage ever gets broken or damaged. They also come with innovative features, such as the brand's signature compression packing system. Bags that have this feature expand to let you pack and then compress down after they're filled. In fact, one of our testers said she packed a week's worth of summer clothes for two people into a compact carry-on, and it easily fit into an airline's overhead bin.

The suitcases also use top-notch construction and timeless designs in a range of styles, including hardside, softside, carry-ons and checked bags. The Baseline Global Carry-On Spinner (pictured here in the 21-inch version) has been a selected as GH Family Travel Award winner for the past two years after travel testers gave it perfect scores across the board. Its nylon fabric also aced our Lab's abrasion tests.

The interior compartment of Briggs & Riley's Baseline Carry-On, including its easy-to-use expansion button.

It’s hard to find good luggage for under $100, but Amazon’s luggage does not disappoint. There are softside and hardside styles to choose from, plus garment bags , duffels and more. Amazon also boasts extensive testing to make sure their products will hold up, and though the luggage might not the absolute best quality out there, the price can’t be beat.

We were impressed with its hardside 20-inch spinner carry-on (pictured here) when we tested it on our Lab. Our analysts found it to be exceptionally easy to pack, though the ABS material wasn't as scratch-resistant as other models in our tests. Still, consumer testers liked the maneuverability and wheel performance. This style also comes in two other sizes (24 and 28 inches) and can be purchased as a two- or three-piece set.

This luxury brand is on the pricey side but has timeless designs — from hardside to tweed fabric — that never go out of style. In fact, the brand’s marketing and aesthetics are focused heavily on its heritage. It has been a top performer in our tests, thanks to its spacious interior that's easy to pack and its wheels and handles that make it smooth and comfortable to maneuver.

The hardside cases have earned high scores in our tests — especially standing out for being scratch-resistant, lightweight and spacious — but we also love the softside Legend collection (pictured here), which is made of durable tweed fabric and leather trim.

This fashionable yet functional travel brand was founded by actress Shay Mitchell and incorporates smart features designed to make traveling easier. It also has a stunning aesthetic, including monochromatic color schemes in which the handles and hardware match the case.

Pictured here is the Carry-On Roller, its best-selling case that comes in a range of neutral and fun hues. It was spacious for packing and easy to maneuver in our tests, and though it did scuff during use, it resisted dents well during our Lab's drop tests. Another popular style is its Mini Weekender , which can be used as a personal item that fits underneath the airplane seat in front of you.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Experts Weigh In on Buzzy Travel Brand Béis

The Béis carry-on and compact weekender bag being used as a travel set.

This company was founded by a pilot, and it makes luggage specifically for airline personnel who travel for a living. Still, it's just as functional for business and leisure travelers.

The brand primarily sells softside luggage, though it does have some hardside options available. There’s excellent attention to detail that makes frequent flying easier, like cushioning around the handles for comfort, self-aligning wheels that let you roll the luggage in any direction and abrasion-resistant nylon fabric.

The Platinum Elite softside luggage (pictured here) stood out in our Lab tests. Not only was it durable, but it was also spacious enough to hold our entire load with room to spare. The downside was that it was heavier than others, but it's a fair tradeoff for the top-of-the-line features.

This brand increases the fun factor and makes it easier to spot your luggage in a sea of solid colors. There are adorable animal sets for kids' luggage , animal prints for adults and more. There are also options for licensed teams and art (like Britto, shown here), making your suitcase a playful yet functional accessory.

When it comes to materials, most Heys suitcases are hardside and made of polycarbonate and ABS composite. This means it's mostly ABS plastic but has a polycarbonate coating on the outside for added protection. The brand wasn't the most durable in our tests, it but earned high ease-of-use scores.

Style is certainly important when it comes to luggage — it's an accessory, after all — but you don't want to sacrifice quality and functionality. Calpak's cases are both well-made and have unique designs. Though its assortment is tailored with fewer models than some of the big brands, Calpak still has a wide range of materials to choose from, including sleek hardside polycarbonate, printed ABS/polycarbonate blends and ripstop polyester.

Calpak's Ambeur carry-on (pictured here) was one of our testers' favorites; they especially loved the easy-to-use telescopic handle and metallic color. We also found it to be easy to pack and though it wasn't as scratch-resistant as some others we tested (which is expected for ABS composites), it still withstood dents and damage from our durability drop test.

Rolling TUMI luggage through the airport is like a status symbol; the brand is highly recognized for its upscale products for both business and leisure travelers.

In addition to its suitcases , it makes accessories like briefcases and backpacks and has components that make traveling easier, like an anti-slip strap on carrying bags and an extra hook on rolling bags so you can wheel multiple items at once. On top of that, the brand stands out for its unique service offerings, like repairs and luggage registration to help you find lost bags.

We especially love Tumi's Alpha collection (pictured here is the Alpha carry-on ) with its durable materials and removable garment sleeve. One GH analyst who has been using a backpack in this collection appreciates that it fits more than you'd expect and has a versatile design for travel, work and beyond.

If you’re going away for weeks or just have lots to pack, L.L.Bean’s duffels are roomy enough to stuff in everything you need. There are options with or without wheels and lots of sizes to choose from (the Adventure Rolling Duffel , shown here, is incredibly durable and one of our go-to picks for vacations with kids).

The flexible shape of the duffel also allows it to store easily under your bed, so it’s perfect for college students or anyone tight on storage space. It’s also made of sturdy, water-resistant nylon fabric that's made to last no matter where your travels take you — in fact, one of our experts says it's lasted for years without signs of wear. She does note that it's a little more cumbersome to pull than four-wheel spinner luggage and it's spaciousness makes it easy to go over the 50-pound weight limit for airlines, but says it's perfect for packing for two kids.

Monos says its design philosophy is "less is more," — meaning the bags are made to be simple and timeless to avoid passing trends and high quality so they can stand the test of time. Most of its hardside bags are entirely polycarbonate, though some combine polycarbonate and aluminum for increased durability. They also have useful packing features like wide compression straps to help you fit more in the case.

The Check-In Large was a winner of last year's GH Family Travel Awards because of its spacious interior and maneuverability. Testers said it was easy to roll and they loved the sleek appearance. It's also worth noting that the brand has a 100-day return period so you can get a refund if it's not a good fit.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Here's Why Travelers Love the Monos Luggage Collection

Monos luggage shown in three sizes: Check-in Large, Check-in Medium and Carry-on

Eagle Creek

Whether you’re backpacking internationally or exploring a national park, Eagle Creek gives you both the convenience and durability you need in a bag. Some have various compartments so you can stay organized (or store shoes and dirty laundry separately), and some bags have backpack straps if you need to be hands-free.

We especially love the Cargo Hauler Duffel for shorter trips: It’s affordable, spacious, lightweight and folds up into a small pouch for easy storage. For longer getaways, the Migrate Wheeled Duffel (pictured here) is larger and has two wheels with a telescopic handle. It also opens wide so you can easily access the contents.

Eagle Creek's Migrate Wheeled Duffel, left, being checked in at an airport terminal.

Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Product Reviews

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Major winners, losers in Queensland’s 2024 state budget revealed

Queensland Labor’s state budget for 2024 has been handed down. Here’s the full breakdown of the major winners and some of the losers.

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Queensland Treasurer Cameron Dick has handed down his fifth budget, revealing a raft of cost-of-living relief measures for Queenslanders to the tune of $11.2bn.

A major feature is a $1000 rebate on electricity bills that will be coupled with a $300 rebate announced by the federal government and paid quarterly.

However, the deficit is forecast to blow out to $2.6bn

Here’s a breakdown of the major winners and losers:

Train, bus and rail fares will be slashed to a 50c fee over a six-month trial, which the government says aims to ease cost-of-living pressures and the traffic gridlock plaguing the state’s roads.

Premier Steven Miles says the initiative is “as close to free as you can get” – covering trains, buses, CityCat ferries and the Gold Coast light rail.

Under the current fares, people living in Robina on the Gold Coast and commuting to Bowen Hills in inner-city Brisbane four days a week pay $91.68 per week or $11.46 per trip.

When the new fares are rolled out, this will be slashed to just $4 per week, saving $2104.32 over six months.

The trial will cost $150m.

Every household will get $1000 knocked off their electricity bill from July 1 – part of the government’s $2.5bn spending splurge.

The cash splash was announced before the federal government said it would give all Australian households an extra $300 off over four instalments across the financial year.

Eligible seniors, pensioners and concession card holders will receive a further $372 off.

“Our No.1 priority is providing cost-of-living relief,” Mr Miles said when the policy was first announced.

First-home buyers

Queenslanders trying to get a foot into the property market have secured a massive win with an increase to the stamp duty discount.

Now, the threshold for the first-home owner concession on stamp duty will increase from $500,000 to $700,000, with the concession then phasing out up to values of $800,000.

The first-home vacant land concession threshold will also increase – rising from $250,000 to $350,000.

The concession then phases out up to values of $500,000.

Twenty per cent will be knocked off rego payments for Queenslanders for 12 months, saving more than $100 per motorist.

Under the changes, a 12-month registration bill for a private-use four-cylinder vehicle will be reduced by almost $85, bringing registration fees down to $338.75, excluding CTP.

For vehicles registered on a pensioner concession, the reduction will be nearly $50 – bringing down the total to $194.50, excluding CTP.

It will apply to all light vehicle registrations from September 16.

Combined with existing concessions, it means some car owners will get as much as 70 per cent off.

“This initiative will save the 5.7 million light car owners here in Queensland hundreds of dollars over the 12 months – dollars that could be spent on groceries, rent, the mortgage or put into savings,” Mr Miles said in a statement on Saturday.

The reduction is in addition to a freeze on rego costs in December last year.

Sporting kids

Families are getting a $200 voucher for every child aged between five and 17 years to participate in junior sport at a cost of $40m.

Under the current FairPlay program, parents, carers or guardians can apply for a voucher valued up to $150 for their child to use towards their sport and active recreation membership, registration or participation fees.

The government is expanding that program by increasing the value of the voucher to $200 and kicking up the total number of vouchers from 50,000 to 200,000.

Since the program began in 2019, more than $30m has been redeemed by activity providers, with more than 210,000 vouchers used by eligible families, Mr Miles said on Saturday.

Thousands of additional teaching support staff will be hired and more professional resources allocated.

Of this, $1bn will be delivered over five years for improved education and “better learning environments”.

Two thousand extra teaching support staff would help students living with disability learn easier, Mr Miles said.

More than $196m will be spent on measures like increasing free kindy hours to 30 hours per week for four-year-olds in discrete communities, funding 36 additional early childhood co-ordinators and another 84 family support co-ordinators to work with high-needs state primary school children in 219 state primary schools.

Other highlights include:

• • $15m in funding for the School and Community Food Relief Program, including $10.7m for the Department of Education to deliver food programs in schools from term 3, 2024, in addition to the $2m in funding for food programs received in term 4, 2023
• • GPs in Schools Program – $21m over four years for the Department of Education to continue the GPs in Schools Program, providing 50 Queensland state schools with secondary-aged students with access to a free primary healthcare service one day per week
• • $65.5m over three years for additional projects under the Playgrounds and Tuckshops Program
• • $151m for new school projects including a new primary school in Park Ridge and the new secondary school in Collingwood Park, both set to open in 2025.
• • $4.9m over two years, 2024-25 to 2025-26, to continue to deliver the Homework Centre program in schools. This program provides funding for on-site support for students in up to 120 state schools to complete homework outside of school hours
• • $500m over four years to plan and deliver high-quality learning environments to meet enrolment needs.

Foreign buyers While the state government has earmarked relief for first-home buyers, foreign investors will be slugged more on stamp duty when they next make a purchase.

That’s because the state’s foreign investor land tax surcharge has increased to 3 per cent to offset the stamp duty discount being granted to Queenslanders.

The transfer duty surcharge has also been increased to 8 per cent.

Coal and gas lobby

The lucrative royalty system on Queensland coal and gas is not going anywhere, with budget papers revealing the progressive royalty tier system is expected to deliver a further $3.6bn in revenue towards the end of this financial year.

However, that impact is expected to decrease “significantly” over the forward estimates.

Coal prices are forecast to normalise to about $1.3bn in 2024-25 and at an average of about$485m per year over the three years ending 2027–28.

“The new tiers will mean Queenslanders will also receive a fair share of the coal companies’ extraordinary revenues during any future periods of unexpectedly high coal prices over the longer term,” the budget papers state.

The raft of cost-of-living relief measures are sure to lighten the burden for renters doing it tough in the Sunshine State.

But aside from those, no specific policies or funding measures geared towards renters were outlined in the Queensland budget.

The budget did contain one specific point in regards to the work the government was doing for renters, however.

“The government has strengthened renters’ rights through the introduction of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2024, which includes applying the annual rent increase frequency limit to a rental property rather than tenancy to give a fairer go to Queenslanders who rent.”

Small businesses

Many of Queensland’s small businesses have also missed out on extra funding, with no other significant packages aside from the launch of the Queensland Small Business Strategy 2024-2027.

About 205,000 business will still get $650 knocked off their electricity bills.

It’s led to leading accounting body CPA Australia saying the business sector would feel “overlooked” and calling the sparse announcements “disappointing”.

“Every Queenslander knows a small-business owner – and knows the financial pressures they’ve been facing in recent times, especially those in construction, hospitality and other energy-intensive sectors,” CPA Australia business investment and international lead Gavan Ord said.

“The budget missed an opportunity to expand measures that boost business growth and productivity, which would benefit all Queenslanders.”

University students

Aside from the signature 50c fares and more free TAFE courses, few other sweeteners have been added for university students in this budget.

National Firearms Registry

Queensland has agreed to fund the costs associated with its support for the National Firearms Registry, but no specific figure has been revealed in this budget.

More Coverage

The program, developed in response to the horrific massacre at Wieambilla, already has unanimous support from other state and territory governments and the federal counterpart.

Federal funding of $160m was earmarked for the program earlier this year.

According to budget papers, Queensland’s funding contribution is not available for publication due to “being subject to ongoing negotiation” between the other governments.

Lawyers for a former local government councillor charged with the murder of his stepfather have indicated their next move as the case progresses.

A massive net overseas migration number has pushed Australia’s population to 27 million in the latest population figures from the ABS.

Premier Li Qiang will be the most senior Chinese leader to visit Australia since 2017 when he lands in the country on Saturday.

These Are The 5 Cheapest U.S. Airlines This Summer According To New Report

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Some people look for luxury when they take to the skies, and I'm often envious of their delicious meals, extra amenities, and comfortable night's sleep.  

I prefer to fly as cheaply as possible! 

The less I spend on getting somewhere, the more cash I have to splash when I arrive!  

So AirAdvisor's list of the cheapest U.S. airlines couldn't have come at a better time.

Check out the list and definitely stick around to the end for some of my top tips on saving money on airfare:

5. JetBlue  

JetBlue is considered a budget carrier, but they aren't an ultra-low-budget, no-frills airline. 

That means if you want to save a few bucks but you're not prepared to trim every essential then they might be a good choice.  

JetBlue took the 5 th place spot with airfares averaging $0.1332 per seat, per mile.

But when you think how many miles the average flight is, costs can quickly add up!  

Look for Blue, Blue Plus, Blue Extra and Mint fares, as these all include a free carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bin.

Otherwise you'll have to pay extra for any luggage you carry.

4. Allegiant Air

Because they only fly within the U.S., Allegiant is considered one of the cheapest domestic airlines.  

So, if you're looking for domestic travel this summer without breaking the bank, they're well worth considering.  

Expect to spend an average of $0.1294 per seat, per mile if you book with Allegiant.  

3. Hawaiian Airlines  

Hawaiian Airlines is the only airline to make this list that doesn't specialize in low-cost travel. This makes them the highest-ranking non-budget airline in the country.  

You'll pay an average of $0.1236 per seat, per mile if you choose Hawaiian Airlines.  

It shouldn't come as too much of a surprise that, as the name suggests, Hawaiian Airlines is a good budget option if you want to fly from anywhere in the U.S. to Hawaii.  

They also offer the best prices for getting from Hawaii to Asia or the South Pacific.  

2. Spirit Airlines  

If you want a getaway to the sun this summer then Spirit is a great choice. They specialize in flights across the U.S. to the Caribbean, and to Latin America. Plenty of spots that are sizzling right now!  

Expect to pay an average of $0.1110 per seat, per mile with Spirit.  

It's worth noting that the best way to get the cheapest fare with Spirit is to avoid adding on any extras.

The "Basic Fare" that is advertised on the website only includes your seat and one personal item. You'll then pay extra for anything else you want, such as luggage or seat selection.

Spirit doesn't have a simple price table (that would make things too easy for passengers), and prices vary depending on where you're traveling. However, carry-on luggage prices start from $39 and up.

Stick to the basic fare and travel light for the lowest prices that earned Spirit 2nd place on this list.  

1. Frontier Airlines  

Given that they're pitched as an ultra-low-cost airline, it shouldn't come as much surprise that Frontier took the number 1 spot as the cheapest U.S. airline.  

And they are much cheaper than the other airlines on the list with an average cost of $0.0985 per seat, per mile.  

Frontier has a pretty wide network too. So if you're flying in the U.S, Central America or Mexico it's probably worth checking out their prices first, as well as comparing them to the other airlines on this list.  

Like Spirit, Frontier also charges for carry-on baggage so consider this extra cost when booking too. You can avoid this by booking a bundle option of BizFare package.

Otherwise, prices start from $20 per person per flight segment.

How To Save Money On Airfare  

Because almost all of these airlines are low-cost or ultra-low-cost carriers, you'll pay extra for pretty much everything. And the most expensive extra airlines like to sting you for is bringing either carry-on or hold luggage.  

So one of the best ways to save money on airfare is to leave your suitcase at home. Pack light, or even consider buying essentials (such as sunscreen) when you arrive: it's often cheaper to shop at your destination than it is to pay the airline to bring a big suitcase.  

If you can't pack light, then pay for your baggage in advance. It is always cheaper to buy in advance than at the airport, and that applies to every airline on this list!

It's not a tip that works for everyone, but I also love waiting ‘til the last minute to book flights and vacations. And often my travel plans will revolve around which airline and destination is offering the cheapest tickets!  

If any airline has inventory left, they'll sell it at a fraction of the price a couple of weeks before departure. But of course, this only works if you have a flexible schedule and no fixed idea of where you want to go next.  

Finally, if you're travelling overseas and you have more time than money then you'll save a packet by not booking direct flights.  

The cheapest flights are often the ones most people consider the worst – and that can mean a long layover. But it's a great way to see parts of the world you might otherwise not be able to afford to explore!

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

The post These Are The 5 Cheapest U.S. Airlines This Summer According To New Report   appeared first on Travel Off Path .

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Summer’s just around the corner, which means now’s the time to iron out those travel plans, buy plane tickets, reserve hotels and gear up for what should be an amazing trip. If you’re still on the fence about taking a trip this summer because of budgetary reasons, you might need to get a little creative.

And that means choosing places you can visit without exhausting your savings account or taking on credit card debt.

The good news is that there are quite a few such places — many of which are within the continental U.S. Depending on where you’re starting from and how much time you’ve got, you could very well have a wonderful vacation without spending more than around $1,000.

GOBankingRates spoke with several travel agents and professionals about where in the country they’d go on a $1,000 budget this summer. Here’s what they said.

Oxnard, California

“If an affordable domestic getaway is what you are after, I suggest exploring one of the many U.S. beach towns that offer way more than the sun and sea,” said Maya Kapoor-Miller, travel agent and travel manager at Dreamport.

One such place is Oxnard.

“Oxnard in Southern California is an idyllic and somewhat underrated vacation spot on California’s southern coast with a small-town feel,” Kapoor-Miller continued. “Located only 60 miles northwest of LAX and near other central destinations, including Santa Barbara, Oxnard is one of Cali’s best-kept secrets. It is home to miles of pristine golden duned beaches, including the famous Mandalay Beach, as well as historic Victorian-era architecture and some of the best taquerias in the state.”

It generally gets around 80 degrees during the summertime, so you won’t have to worry about the sweltering heat.

The beaches aren’t the only thing Oxnard’s got going for it, though.

“Its picturesque harbor offers kayaking and cycling opportunities while serving as the closest access point to the stunning Channel Islands National Park,” Kapoor-Miller continued. “The surroundings of the islands are protected so that you can experience truly diverse marine life. Rent a kayak for the afternoon or explore the park’s five islands on foot.”

And you don’t have to worry too much about going over your budget either as Oxnard is pretty affordable.

“Whether you are dining and shopping downtown or exploring the breathtaking coastline or one of the many maritime museums, Oxnard is an enchanting yet reasonably-priced beachfront destination to add to your bucket list this summer,” Kapoor-Miller said. “The average cost for a solo traveler to visit Oxnard on a budget is below $200 per day, including accommodation, dining, sightseeing and local transportation costs.”

Florida Beaches

If you live on the East Coast or in the South, Florida’s another affordable travel destination this summer. Depending on how you go about it, and how much you need to spend on gas or airfare, you could enjoy a lovely beach trip for about $1,000.

“Florida is an excellent choice if you’re longing for a classic beach vacation,” said Tim Hentschel, the CEO and co-founder of HotelPlanner , one of the world’s largest group travel booking sites.

In particular, he suggested Miami, Tampa and Orlando — depending on what you want to do.

“Miami boasts a vibrant nightlife with trendy clubs, diverse dining options, and cultural landmarks like the Art Deco Historic District and Little Havana,” he said. “Tampa is known for its lively waterfront, featuring the Tampa Riverwalk, and thrilling amusement parks like Busch Gardens.”

In Orlando, you can also go to world-class theme parks like Walt Disney World or Universal Studios. You can book accommodations a little further out of the city to compensate for the ticket prices.

Waco, Texas

Another affordable summer travel destination for those in the Southwest or West Coast is Waco, Texas. It’s about halfway between Austin and Dallas and has a lot to offer.

“If you have the slightest bit of interest in the HGTV craze with Chip & Joanna Gaines at the forefront, Waco, Texas, is a great, under-the-radar destination that’s extremely affordable and offers a ton to do,” said Hans Mast, an agent with Golden Rule Travel . “You can allocate your $1,000 budget several different ways.”

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To start, Mast suggested sticking with cheaper accommodations so that you have more money for shopping, food and sightseeing.

“You can expect to pay $65/night (including tax) for a highly-rated 2-star hotel like the Days Inn. Or $103/night for a gorgeous, unique tiny home experience like The Hacienda Container Tiny Home,” Mast said. “Or if you prefer to spend more of your budget on lodging, SkyBox Cabins in Glen Rose (close to Fossil Rim) is an amazing splurge for $250/night.”

The food in Waco is very affordable, he added, so you won’t have to spend much of your budget on dining out. Instead, you can spend it on unique experiences like the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center — a self-drive African safari that costs $30 per adult or $25 per child.

Any National Park Near You

There are some stunning national parks in the U.S., so if you happen to live near one — or even just a state or two away — summer’s the time to check them out.

Some national parks are free to visit , though you may have to pay for parking. Others have an entry fee of around $15 to $20 per person — sometimes a little more. Of course, if you already have an annual pass, which costs $80, you won’t even have to pay to visit.

“For those who love nature and crave adventure, a road trip to one or more of the stunning national parks in the U.S. can be incredibly thrilling,” Hentschel said. “Yellowstone National Park offers a unique geothermal landscape with geysers like Old Faithful, hot springs, and abundant wildlife, including bison, elk, and bears. Yosemite National Park is famous for its majestic waterfalls…The Grand Canyon provides breathtaking vistas of the Colorado River and layered rock formations, with challenging hikes like the Bright Angel Trail and opportunities for rafting and helicopter tours.”

New Orleans

If you’re not as into nature or the beach, you can always opt for affordable urban destinations instead. One such location is New Orleans.

“New Orleans is a city full of charm,” Hentschel said. “[It’s known for its delectable food — like beignets and gumbo — a lively music scene with jazz at every corner, and rich cultural heritage.” This includes the French Quarter and Mardi Gras celebrations.”

And if you don’t live near Louisiana or if you want to explore somewhere new, Hentschel suggested Las Vegas or Nashville instead. Both cities have a lot going for them, depending on your interests.

Keep in mind that popular urban areas like these tend to have higher accommodation costs, especially if you’re interested in staying in the city center. A weeklong trip to New Orleans in July, for example, could cost anywhere from about $350 to $800 for the hotel alone, though mid-range options hover at closer to $600 for the week.

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