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Weekend trip budget

Good value is about the entire trip. Bring flights, accommodation, transfers, food and experiences together before deciding.

Simple formula

Fixed costs + daily budget + contingency

Divide the total by the number of travellers only after every shared cost is included.

Six budget categories

Estimate these before booking

01

Flights and baggage

Use the final price for every traveller. Include cabin bags, checked bags, seat selection and transport to the departure airport.

02

Accommodation

Include every night, taxes and possible fees. Compare a central location with the cost and time required for local transport.

03

Transport at the destination

Include airport transfers, public transport, taxis and any rental car, parking, tolls and fuel.

04

Food and drink

Set a daily amount that suits the group. Separate everyday meals from one or two experiences you want to prioritise.

05

Activities

Price tickets, guided tours and reservations in advance. Add free parks, viewpoints and walking routes to the plan too.

06

Contingency

Add a reserve for price changes, extra transport and spontaneous choices. The contingency is not a target that needs to be spent.

Budget template

Enter one amount on each line

Flights and baggage_____
Accommodation and fees_____
Transfers both ways_____
Food and drink_____
Activities and tickets_____
Contingency_____
Total cost_____
Cost per person_____

Frequently asked questions

In brief

How large should the contingency be?

It depends on the destination and how much is prepaid. The point is to keep a visible reserve that is not already committed to planned purchases.

How should a group split costs?

Agree in advance which costs are shared, who pays initially and when everyone settles. Optional activities should remain outside the shared budget.

Is the cheapest city always cheapest overall?

No. A low fare may be offset by expensive airport transfers, accommodation or food. Compare the complete trip, not only the first price you see.

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