Free Travel Planning Tool
Travel Budget Calculator
Plan your 2026 trip budget with real cost data. Get estimates for accommodation, transport, meals, and activities across 10 popular destinations.
Costs Based on 2026 Tourism Data
Understanding Travel Budget Planning
Effective travel budgeting prevents overspending and ensures you can enjoy your trip without financial stress. Here's how to approach your planning.
The 4-Category Method
Professional travel planners break budgets into four core categories: accommodation, transport, meals, and activities. This framework works for any destination and travel style, from budget backpacking to luxury retreats.
- Accommodation: Usually 40-50% of daily spend
- Meals: 25-30% depending on dining preferences
- Activities: 15-25% for experiences
- Transport: 10-15% for local travel
2026 Travel Cost Trends
Post-pandemic travel demand has stabilised, but costs remain elevated. Understanding current trends helps you budget more accurately.
- Hotel rates 15-25% higher than 2019 baseline
- Flight prices stabilising after 2023-24 surge
- Southeast Asia offers best value currently
- Peak season premiums averaging 25-40%
What Each Budget Category Covers
Understanding what's included in each category helps you plan more accurately and avoid surprises.
Accommodation
Where you sleep each night, from hostels to five-star resorts.
- Budget: Hostels, guesthouses, basic hotels
- Mid-range: 3-4 star hotels, quality Airbnbs
- Luxury: 5-star hotels, premium resorts
Transport
Getting around your destination once you've arrived.
- Budget: Public transit, walking, shared rides
- Mid-range: Taxis, ride-shares, day car hire
- Luxury: Private drivers, premium car hire
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks throughout your trip.
- Budget: Street food, markets, basic cafes
- Mid-range: Casual restaurants, local favourites
- Luxury: Fine dining, hotel restaurants
Activities
Tours, attractions, experiences, and entertainment.
- Budget: Free attractions, self-guided tours
- Mid-range: Guided tours, main attractions
- Luxury: Private guides, exclusive experiences
2026 Destination Cost Comparison
Compare daily costs across our 10 featured destinations. Base rates in GBP (accommodation per room, meals/activities per person).
| Destination | Region | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Paris, France
|
Europe | £115/day | £310/day | £920/day |
|
Dubai, UAE
|
Middle East | £145/day | £395/day | £1250/day |
|
Maldives
|
Indian Ocean | £240/day | £650/day | £2450/day |
|
New York, USA
|
North America | £180/day | £460/day | £1360/day |
|
Bali, Indonesia
|
Southeast Asia | £65/day | £185/day | £770/day |
|
Switzerland
|
Europe | £190/day | £460/day | £1250/day |
|
Tokyo, Japan
|
East Asia | £120/day | £325/day | £1030/day |
|
Kenya Safari
|
East Africa | £270/day | £650/day | £1650/day |
|
Greek Islands
|
Europe | £105/day | £275/day | £820/day |
|
Costa Rica
|
Central America | £110/day | £270/day | £800/day |
All rates in GBP equivalent. Daily costs include accommodation, local transport, meals, and activities per person.
Smart Travel Budgeting Tips
Maximise your travel budget with these proven strategies from experienced travellers.
Book Smart
- Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner
- Book accommodation 2-3 months ahead
- Consider Tuesday/Wednesday departures
Save on Accommodation
- Stay slightly outside city centres
- Book direct for best-rate guarantees
- Use loyalty programmes for upgrades
Reduce Daily Costs
- Eat where locals eat, not tourist spots
- Use public transport and walking
- Book multi-attraction passes
Understanding Peak Season Pricing
Peak season can add 25-40% to your travel costs. Here's when to visit each destination for the best value.
Peak Season (Higher Prices)
- Europe: June-August, Christmas/New Year
- Maldives/UAE: December-February
- Japan: Cherry blossom (March-April)
- Africa Safari: July-October (dry season)
- Ski Resorts: December-February
Shoulder Season (Best Value)
- Europe: April-May, September-October
- Southeast Asia: March-May, October-November
- Caribbean: May-June, November
- Australia: March-May, September-November
- USA: April-May, September-October
Calculate Your Travel Budget
Select your destination, travel style, and trip details to get a detailed budget estimate based on 2026 cost data.
Select your destination and travel details to see your budget estimate
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Learn MoreTravel Budget Planning FAQ
Whether you're a new client or a long-time partner, we're here to help. Below are answers to the most common questions.
Our estimates are based on 2026 industry data from tourism boards, hotel aggregators, and travel cost databases. Budget figures represent hostels and basic dining, mid-range covers 3-4 star hotels and casual restaurants, while luxury includes 5-star properties and fine dining. Actual costs vary based on specific bookings, travel dates, and personal preferences. Use these figures as a planning baseline rather than exact pricing.
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