How to Create an Accurate Travel Budget:

Transportation: Include flights, airport transfers, local transport (trains, buses, taxis, car rental). Don’t forget parking fees!

Accommodation: Hotels, Airbnb, hostels. Remember to include resort fees, cleaning fees, and taxes which can add 10-20%.

Food: Estimate meals per day. Budget travelers: $20-40/day. Mid-range: $50-80/day. Luxury: $100+/day per person.

Activities: Tours, entrance fees, equipment rentals. Research ahead – some attractions are expensive!

Shopping: Set a realistic souvenirs/shopping budget to avoid overspending.

Other: Travel insurance ($50-150), visas ($50-200), international phone plan ($10-50), tips (15-20% in US, less elsewhere).

Pro Tips:

• Add 15-20% buffer: Unexpected costs ALWAYS happen. Build in cushion.
• Track as you go: Use apps like Splitwise or Trail Wallet to track actual spending.
• Book early: Flights and hotels are usually cheaper 2-3 months ahead.
• Use credit cards wisely: Get travel cards with no foreign transaction fees to save 2-3%.
• Research exchange rates: Know the local currency value before you go.