Question 1

How do I budget for a holiday?

Accepted Answer

Start by estimating your major costs: flights, accommodation, and food typically make up 70-80% of a holiday budget. Then add activities, local transport, travel insurance, and spending money. Use this calculator to get a clear per-person and per-day breakdown so you know exactly what to save.

Question 2

How much should I budget per day for a holiday?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your destination. For Southeast Asia (Bali, Thailand), budget $100-200 AUD per person per day. For Japan or Europe, expect $200-350 per person per day. For the US or UK, budget $250-400 per person per day. These estimates include accommodation, food, transport, and activities.

Question 3

What costs do people forget when planning a holiday?

Accepted Answer

Commonly forgotten costs include: travel insurance, airport parking or transfers, visa fees, phone/data roaming, tipping (in countries where expected), checked baggage fees, currency exchange fees, and pre-trip purchases like travel adapters or luggage.

Question 4

Should I budget in Australian dollars or local currency?

Accepted Answer

Budget in Australian dollars for planning purposes — it makes it easier to compare against your savings and income. When you travel, check the current exchange rate and keep a rough mental conversion. This calculator uses AUD to help you plan and save.

Question 5

How much spending money should I take on holiday?

Accepted Answer

A good rule of thumb is to set aside 10-15% of your total trip budget as discretionary spending money for souvenirs, unexpected experiences, and treats. For a week-long trip costing $5,000, that would be $500-750 in spending money.

Question 6

How can I save money on a holiday?

Accepted Answer

Book flights and accommodation early, travel during shoulder season (just before or after peak), cook some meals if you have a kitchen, use public transport instead of taxis, look for free activities and walking tours, and compare travel insurance policies for the best deal.

Holiday Budget Calculator

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