Guide · By DueTrack Studio · Updated 2026-10-29
How to budget for a trip (and track spending in foreign currency)
To budget for a trip, add up fixed costs (flights, accommodation, insurance), set a daily amount for food, transport and activities, multiply by the number of days, and add 10–15% for surprises. While travelling, record spending in the local currency and convert it to your home currency so you always know the real total.
How do you build a trip budget?
- Fixed costs: flights, accommodation, visas, insurance.
- Daily costs: food, local transport, activities.
- One-off costs: tours, gifts, luggage fees.
- Buffer: 10–15% for the unexpected.
How do you track spending abroad?
- Record purchases in the currency you paid in.
- Convert to your home currency daily so totals stay real.
- Note card fees and cash withdrawals as separate expenses.
- Check the daily total each evening.
Questions
How do I keep track of what I'm spending on holiday in another currency?
Record each purchase in the currency you paid, and use an app that converts everything to your home currency so you see the real total every evening.
How much should I budget per day for travel?
Research typical costs for your destination and travel style, then add a 10–15% buffer.