Vacation Budget Calculator
Most trip budgets fail on the same two things: the buffer and the food. The buffer is here as a field because unplanned spending is not unusual, it is normal.
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Where holiday budgets usually break
Flights and accommodation are booked in advance and therefore accurate. Everything else is estimated on the optimistic side, and food is the worst offender: three meals a day for a week, for several people, in a place where you do not know the cheap options, adds up faster than almost anyone expects.
The buffer is not padding
A delayed flight, a taxi you did not plan, an attraction that cost double, a lost charger. These are not exceptional; something in that category happens on most trips. Twelve percent is a reasonable default, and higher is sensible for a first visit somewhere unfamiliar.
Days and nights are different numbers
A seven-night trip has eight days of eating. The calculator uses nights for accommodation and days for food, which is a small distinction that removes a consistent underestimate.
Save towards a total, not a vague intention
The monthly saving figure turns the trip into a number you can act on now. It is also a useful reality check: if that figure looks uncomfortable, it is better to know before booking than after.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I budget for food on holiday?
It depends heavily on destination and style. Self-catering with occasional meals out costs a fraction of eating out three times a day. Look up typical restaurant prices for the specific city rather than using a general figure.
How big should the contingency be?
Ten to fifteen percent covers most trips. Go higher for somewhere unfamiliar, for long trips, or where medical costs could be significant.
Should travel insurance be included?
Yes, in other costs. It is easy to forget and can be a meaningful amount, particularly for older travellers or trips involving activities.