This free trip budget calculator helps you plan the total cost of your holiday — including flights, accommodation, food, activities, transport and spending money.
One of the most common travel mistakes is underbudgeting. A well-planned travel budget ensures you can enjoy your trip without financial stress — and helps you save the right amount beforehand.
How to Build a Realistic Travel Budget
The biggest costs are usually flights and accommodation. Add a 15-20% buffer for unexpected expenses — entry fees, weather changes, medical needs or spontaneous experiences. Daily spending varies enormously by destination: Southeast Asia can be $30-60 AUD per day while Western Europe may cost $120-200+ per day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book flights?+
For international flights, booking 3-6 months in advance typically offers the best prices. For peak seasons (Christmas, school holidays), book even earlier. Domestic flights in Australia can often be found cheaper 6-8 weeks out.
What is the best way to pay for travel expenses?+
A travel card like Wise or 28 Degrees (with no foreign transaction fees) saves significantly on currency conversion. Always notify your bank before travel.
How much spending money should I budget per day?+
A rough guide: Southeast Asia $40-80 AUD, Europe $100-180 AUD, USA $100-200 AUD, Japan $80-150 AUD. This varies greatly by travel style.
Should I buy travel insurance?+
Yes — always. Medical evacuation alone can cost $50,000-$200,000+. A good travel insurance policy is one of the best investments you can make for any trip.
How do I track travel expenses during the trip?+
Apps like Trail Wallet, Spendesk or even a simple spreadsheet help you track spending against your budget in real time.