Holiday Budget FAQ

How accurate is the holiday budget calculator?

Our calculator provides estimates based on typical costs for each accommodation type and region. Actual costs vary depending on destination, season, booking time, and personal preferences. We recommend adding a 10-20% buffer for unexpected expenses and contingencies. Think of it as a planning tool rather than an exact prediction.

What accommodation types are available in the calculator?

We offer four accommodation categories to match different travel styles and budgets:

• Hostel: Budget-friendly shared accommodation (dorms or basic private rooms)
• Budget: Basic hotels and guesthouses with essential amenities
• Mid-range: Comfortable hotels with good facilities and service
• Luxury: High-end hotels, resorts, and boutique properties

Each category has different average nightly rates based on global averages, helping you budget accurately for your preferred comfort level.

Can I save my holiday budget in the calculator?

Your inputs are automatically saved in your browser's local storage, so they'll be there when you return to the page. However, clearing your browser data will delete saved information. For permanent records, take a screenshot of your budget breakdown or write down the totals. You can also print the page for physical reference.

What hidden costs should I budget for on holiday?

Many travelers forget these common expenses:

• Airport transfers and local transport
• Checked baggage fees (often £20-60 per bag)
• Travel insurance (4-8% of trip cost)
• Visa fees and passport photos
• Tourist taxes and resort fees
• Tipping for services
• Currency exchange fees (typically 2-5%)
• Mobile roaming charges
• Attraction entry fees
• Parking at airports
• Emergency funds (at least £200-300)

Always budget 15-20% extra for unexpected expenses. It's better to come home with money left over than to run out mid-trip!

How much should I budget per person per day for food?

Food costs vary significantly by destination, but here are general UK traveler guidelines:

• Budget travel: £15-25 per day (street food, supermarkets, cheap restaurants)
• Mid-range travel: £30-50 per day (mix of local restaurants and some nicer dining)
• Luxury travel: £60-100+ per day (quality restaurants, room service, hotel dining)

These estimates include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks. Self-catering accommodation with a kitchen can significantly reduce food costs, especially for families. Shopping at local markets and supermarkets saves 40-60% compared to eating out every meal.

What percentage of my income should I spend on holidays?

Financial experts recommend spending no more than 10-15% of your annual income on holidays and leisure activities. However, this varies based on personal circumstances, debt levels, and savings goals. Use the popular 50/30/20 budget rule: 50% on needs (housing, food, utilities), 30% on wants (including holidays), and 20% on savings and debt repayment. If you earn £30,000 annually, aim to spend no more than £3,000-4,500 on holidays per year.

When is the cheapest time to book a holiday?

Timing is crucial for getting the best deals:

• Flights: Book 6-8 weeks ahead for short-haul, 3-6 months for long-haul
• Accommodation: Often cheapest 3-4 months before travel
• Avoid peak seasons: School holidays, Christmas, Easter, and summer are most expensive
• Best days to fly: Tuesday and Wednesday are typically 15-20% cheaper
• Shoulder season: Travel in May, September, or October for lower prices and fewer crowds

Use price comparison sites and set up price alerts. Be flexible with dates if possible - even shifting by a day or two can save hundreds of pounds.

How can I save money on holiday activities?

Enjoy your destination without breaking the bank:

• Look for free walking tours (tip-based)
• Visit free museums, parks, and beaches
• Use city tourist cards for bundled discounts
• Book activities online in advance (often 20-30% cheaper)
• Avoid tourist traps near major attractions
• Eat where locals eat - better value and authentic
• Take public transport instead of taxis
• Research free days at paid attractions
• Pack picnics for days out
• Download offline maps to avoid roaming charges

Many cities offer free concerts, festivals, and events - check local tourism websites before you go.

What's the difference between budget and mid-range travel?

Understanding travel styles helps you budget accurately:

Budget Travel (£30-50 per person per day):

• Hostels or budget guesthouses
• Self-catering most meals
• Public transport exclusively
• Free or low-cost activities
• Shared accommodation

Mid-Range Travel (£80-120 per person per day):

• Comfortable hotels or Airbnb
• Mix of eating out and self-catering
• Public transport plus occasional taxis
• Paid attractions and tours
• Private rooms with ensuite

Costs vary significantly by destination - Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe are much cheaper than Western Europe or North America.

Should I exchange currency before traveling?

Smart currency strategy saves money:

• Exchange a small amount before departure (£50-100) for immediate expenses like taxis and tips
• Avoid airport exchange bureaus - they typically charge 5-10% more than high street rates
• Use ATMs at your destination for the best exchange rates (usually within 1-2% of official rates)
• Get a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees (saves 2.5-3% per transaction)
• Never exchange at hotels - they have the worst rates
• Decline dynamic currency conversion when paying by card abroad (always pay in local currency)

Cards like Revolut, Monzo, or Starling offer excellent exchange rates and free ATM withdrawals abroad (up to certain limits).

Is travel insurance worth the cost?

Absolutely yes! Travel insurance is essential and typically costs 4-8% of your total trip cost. It covers:

• Medical emergencies (can cost tens of thousands without insurance)
• Trip cancellations and interruptions
• Lost, stolen, or delayed luggage
• Flight delays and missed connections
• Personal liability
• Emergency repatriation

A broken leg in the USA could cost £50,000+ without insurance. A £100 insurance policy could save you from financial ruin. Always read the policy details carefully, especially exclusions for pre-existing conditions, adventure activities, and valuable items.

How do I budget for a family holiday?

Family holidays require extra planning but can be affordable:

Accommodation:

• Look for family rooms (often cheaper than two doubles)
• Consider apartments or holiday homes with kitchens
• Self-catering saves 40-60% on food costs
• All-inclusive resorts offer predictable budgets

Activities & Costs:

• Many attractions offer family tickets (save 15-25%)
• Children under certain ages often enter free
• Pack snacks and drinks to avoid expensive on-the-go purchases
• Factor in souvenirs budget (£10-20 per child)
• Entertainment costs add up - budget £15-30 per child per day

Traveling with kids is more expensive - expect to add 60-80% to a couple's budget for two children. However, memories are priceless!