How to budget a holiday: the costs people forget

By the Nexara Holidays travel desk · 2 min read

A holiday budget is more than the package price. Planning for all the costs upfront avoids stress on the trip.

The main costs

1. Flights or trains from your city, including baggage fees.
2. Accommodation, which varies hugely by category, season and location.
3. Transfers and local transport, including airport transfers.
4. Sightseeing and activities, including entry tickets and guides.
5. Meals not included in the package.
6. Visas and insurance for international trips.
7. Taxes such as GST and, for overseas packages, TCS. See TCS on foreign tour packages explained in plain words.

The costs people forget

• Tourist levies and city taxes paid at hotels or on arrival.
• Optional activities: water sports, shows, spa treatments.
• Tips for guides, drivers and hotel staff.
• Local SIM or roaming packs.
• Shopping and souvenirs.
• Travel to and from your home airport.
• Currency conversion fees.

Where to save

• Travel in the shoulder season. See Shoulder-season travel: better prices, fewer crowds.
• Book early for peak dates.
• Choose good-value destinations: Thailand, Bali (South Coast), Sri Lanka and Vietnam abroad; Kerala, Rajasthan and Himachal in India.
• Stay longer in fewer places to reduce transfer costs.
• Choose breakfast-included hotels and eat lunch at local places.

Where not to cut corners

• Travel insurance on international trips.
• Reliable transfers, especially late at night.
• Safety equipment and licensed operators for adventure activities.

A simple rule

Add 10 to 15 per cent to your planned budget for unexpected costs and treats.

Ask for a full quote

A good quote should show what is included and what is not, so you can budget the rest. See How to read a travel quote and compare packages fairly and our Budget holidays page.