Where Your Travel Budget Goes Furthest

A modest budget can go a long way if you choose well. Here is how to pick a destination and plan your spending.

Start with a daily budget

Estimate what you can spend per day, including accommodation, food, local transport and activities. Compare that with typical costs in your shortlist.

Typical budget levels

These are rough ideas and vary by season and style of travel.

• Very low cost: Parts of Southeast Asia, South Asia and Central America, where a comfortable budget traveller might spend a modest daily sum.
• Moderate: Eastern Europe, Turkey, Mexico and parts of South America.
• Higher: Western Europe, Japan, Australia, Scandinavia and North America.

Ways to stretch money

1. Be flexible with dates. Midweek and shoulder-season prices are lower.
2. Choose a base and make day trips, to save on transport and accommodation.
3. Cook some meals or buy from markets.
4. Look for free attractions, walking tours on a tip basis and public parks.
5. Use local buses and trains.
6. Compare prices for accommodation, and consider guesthouses and homestays.

Spend where it counts

Save on things you care little about, and spend on those you value: a good guide, a special meal or a comfortable bed.

Prices vary, so check current costs for your dates.