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How Much It Actually Cost Me To Travel For 3 Months: Complete Europe Trip Cost Breakdown

Introduction

Traveling is a dream for many, and I was no exception. After months of planning and saving, I finally took the plunge and embarked on a 3-month journey across Europe. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allowed me to immerse myself in different cultures, witness breathtaking landscapes, and create unforgettable memories.

But as exciting as it was, I knew that traveling for such an extended period would come with its fair share of expenses. I wanted to document and share my personal experience to shed some light on the real cost of long-term travel. In this article, I will provide a comprehensive breakdown of how much it actually cost me to travel for 3 months in Europe.

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, it’s important to note that everyone’s travel expenses will vary based on several factors such as travel style, destinations, accommodation choices, and personal preferences. The costs mentioned in this article are specific to my trip and should be used as a rough guide rather than an exact estimate for your own travels.

It’s also worth mentioning that I did my best to budget and make cost-effective choices without compromising on experiencing the essence of each place. I believe that travel should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their budget, and I hope that this breakdown will provide insights and inspiration for your own travel plans.

So, without further ado, let’s get down to the numbers and explore how much it actually cost me to travel for 3 months in Europe.

Pre-Trip Expenses

Before setting off on my European adventure, there were several pre-trip expenses that needed to be taken care of. These expenses included visa application fees, travel gear, vaccinations, and travel insurance.

First and foremost, I had to consider the cost of obtaining a Schengen visa, which allowed me to travel freely within most European countries. The visa application fee amounted to approximately $80. Additionally, I had to gather all the necessary documents and go through the process of submitting my application.

Next, I needed to invest in some essential travel gear. This included a durable backpack, a lightweight and versatile travel towel, a sturdy pair of walking shoes, a comfortable travel pillow, and a reliable universal adapter. The total cost of these items came to around $200.

Another important aspect of my pre-trip expenses was getting vaccinated. Depending on your travel destination, you may need to get specific vaccinations to protect yourself from diseases prevalent in certain regions. In my case, I needed vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. The cost of these vaccinations amounted to approximately $300.

Lastly, I made sure to prioritize travel insurance to provide financial security and peace of mind during my journey. Travel insurance covered emergencies, medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost baggage. The cost of a comprehensive travel insurance plan for the 3-month trip totaled around $300.

All in all, my pre-trip expenses added up to around $880. While these costs can seem substantial, they are essential investments to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Transportation Costs

Transportation was one of the major expenses during my 3-month trip in Europe. Getting from one destination to another involved various modes of transportation, including flights, trains, buses, and local transportation within cities.

Flights accounted for the largest portion of my transportation costs. To secure the best deals, I booked my flights well in advance and compared prices across multiple airlines. The cost of round-trip flights from my home country to Europe amounted to approximately $1200. Within Europe, I also took a few budget airlines for shorter distances. The cost of these intra-Europe flights totaled around $600.

In addition to flights, I relied heavily on trains to explore different countries and cities. Europe has an extensive and efficient train network, making it convenient to travel between destinations. I purchased a Eurail pass, which allowed unlimited train travel within a specified period. The cost of the Eurail pass for 3 months was approximately $800.

For shorter distances or when train travel wasn’t practical, I opted for buses. Bus tickets were generally more affordable and offered scenic routes. The total cost of bus transportation during the 3-month trip came to around $200.

Within cities, I utilized public transportation systems such as metro or tram systems to navigate and explore. The cost of local transportation varied from one city to another, averaging around $5-10 per day.

All in all, my transportation costs for the 3-month trip amounted to approximately $2800. While it may seem like a significant sum, it’s important to consider that transportation expenses can vary depending on the distance traveled, destinations, and the means of transportation chosen.

Accommodation Expenses

During my 3-month trip in Europe, finding suitable and affordable accommodation was a top priority. I wanted to strike a balance between comfort, location, and cost-effectiveness. I explored various accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals.

Hostels became my preferred choice for accommodation due to their affordability and social atmosphere. I stayed in shared dormitories with bunk beds, which offered a chance to meet fellow travelers and exchange stories. The cost of hostels varied depending on the location and time of year, averaging around $20-30 per night. Over the course of 3 months, my total hostel expenses were approximately $1000.

In certain destinations, especially smaller towns or rural areas, hostels were limited, and I opted for hotels instead. Although hotels generally cost more than hostels, I found some budget-friendly options that offered comfortable accommodations. The average cost of hotel stays was around $50-70 per night, and my total hotel expenses were about $700.

For a change of pace and added flexibility, I also booked vacation rentals through platforms like Airbnb. These rentals provided a homely atmosphere, allowing me to have a private space and access to amenities like a kitchen. The cost of vacation rentals varied depending on the size, location, and duration of the stay. On average, I spent around $80-100 per night for vacation rentals, resulting in a total expense of approximately $1200.

In some cases, I had the opportunity to stay with friends or utilize couchsurfing platforms, which allowed me to save on accommodation expenses entirely. These options provided not only a place to stay but also a chance to connect with locals and gain a deeper understanding of the culture and lifestyle.

All in all, my accommodation expenses for the 3-month trip totaled around $2900. It’s important to note that accommodation costs can vary significantly depending on the destination, time of year, and personal preferences. It’s always a good idea to research and compare different options to find the best fit for your budget and travel style.

Food and Drink Costs

Exploring the culinary delights of each destination was an integral part of my travel experience in Europe. However, it was essential to balance my desire for unique dining experiences with budget-friendly options. Here’s a breakdown of my food and drink costs during the 3-month trip.

I started each day with a hearty breakfast, which often consisted of pastries or bread with coffee or tea. This cost between $5-10, depending on the location. For lunch, I would typically grab a quick bite from local cafes or street food vendors, spending around $10-15 per meal. Dinner was a chance to indulge in local cuisine at restaurants, where I would spend an average of $20-30 per meal.

In order to save on food expenses, I made it a point to visit local markets and grocery stores to buy snacks and ingredients for simple meals. This allowed me to save money and explore the local ingredients, especially when I had access to a kitchen in vacation rentals. On average, I spent about $10-15 per day on groceries.

Drinks, such as coffee, tea, or alcoholic beverages, were an additional expense. I treated myself to local specialties like espresso in Italy and beer in Germany. The cost of drinks varied depending on the location and type of establishment. On average, I spent around $5-10 per day on drinks.

One of the benefits of traveling in Europe is the abundance of affordable street food options. Whether it was grabbing a slice of pizza in Italy or a crepe in France, street food provided affordable yet delicious meal options. On average, I would spend around $5-10 per street food meal.

All in all, my food and drink expenses for the 3-month trip totaled approximately $2000. It’s important to note that these costs can vary depending on personal preferences, dining choices, and the countries visited. By balancing local dining experiences with budget-friendly options, I was able to enjoy a diverse culinary journey without breaking the bank.

Sightseeing and Activities Costs

Exploring the rich history, cultural landmarks, and natural attractions of each destination was a highlight of my 3-month trip in Europe. However, admission fees, tours, and activities can quickly add up. Here’s a breakdown of my sightseeing and activities costs during the trip.

One of the first things I did in each city was to invest in a city sightseeing pass or tourist card. These cards provided discounted or free admission to popular attractions and included unlimited access to public transportation. The cost of these passes varied depending on the city and duration, but on average, I spent around $100-150 for each city pass.

Some must-visit attractions required individual admission fees. For iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, or the Louvre, I had to purchase tickets in advance. These admission fees ranged from $10-30 per attraction, depending on the location and popularity. In total, I spent around $500 on individual attraction fees.

To immerse myself in the local culture and history, I also joined guided tours and cultural experiences. Whether it was a walking tour through a historic neighborhood, a food tasting tour, or a bike tour through the countryside, these activities allowed me to gain deeper insights into the destination. The cost of tours and experiences varied depending on the duration and inclusions, typically ranging from $20-50 per activity. I spent approximately $500 on guided tours and experiences.

Nature lovers can also partake in outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, or exploring national parks. These activities often required equipment rentals or entrance fees. I allocated around $300 for outdoor activities, including rentals and entrance fees.

In addition to planned activities, I also set aside a budget for spontaneous experiences or local festivals that I came across during my travels. This allowed me to fully embrace the vibrant atmosphere and unique events happening around me.

All in all, my sightseeing and activities costs for the 3-month trip totaled approximately $1500. It’s important to note that these costs can vary depending on the destination, the number of attractions visited, and personal preferences. By prioritizing my must-see attractions and balancing them with free or low-cost activities, I was able to make the most of my travel budget while still enjoying enriching experiences in each destination.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an essential aspect of any trip, providing valuable coverage and peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances. During my 3-month journey in Europe, I made sure to invest in comprehensive travel insurance to protect myself against potential risks and emergencies.

Travel insurance covered a wide range of scenarios, including trip cancellation or interruption, medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, lost or delayed baggage, and personal liability. These coverages were crucial, considering the uncertainties that can arise during long-term travel.

The cost of travel insurance varied depending on the duration of the trip and the level of coverage. For my 3-month trip, I opted for a comprehensive insurance plan that provided coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost baggage. The total cost of travel insurance for the duration of my trip was approximately $300.

Having travel insurance provided me with peace of mind and financial security throughout my journey. It gave me confidence in exploring each destination, knowing that I was protected in case of any unexpected events or emergencies.

It’s important to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of the travel insurance policy, ensuring that it covers the specific needs and activities of your trip. Additionally, make sure to keep a copy of the insurance documentation easily accessible during your travels.

While travel insurance is an additional cost to consider when planning your trip, it is an investment in your safety and well-being. The protection and support it provides in the face of potential risks or emergencies far outweigh the cost.

Remember, accidents and unforeseen events can happen to anyone, regardless of how well-prepared or cautious you may be. Travel insurance offers the necessary coverage and assistance to help you navigate through challenging situations, ensuring a worry-free travel experience.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Aside from the major expenses like transportation, accommodation, food, and activities, there were miscellaneous expenses that popped up during my 3-month trip in Europe. These expenses encompassed a variety of items and services that added to the overall cost of my travels.

One of the common miscellaneous expenses was the cost of communication. As an international traveler, I needed to stay connected with family and friends back home. This involved purchasing local SIM cards or using international roaming services. On average, I spent around $50-100 on communication expenses throughout the trip.

Another area where miscellaneous expenses arose was in purchasing local souvenirs and gifts. I wanted to bring back mementos from each destination, whether it be small trinkets or traditional handicrafts. The amount spent on souvenir shopping varied depending on individual preferences and the number of items purchased. On average, I allocated around $200-300 for souvenirs.

In some cases, I encountered unexpected fees or charges. These included bank fees for withdrawing cash from foreign ATMs, baggage fees for flights, or entrance fees for certain attractions that were not included in the city passes. These fees varied in amount but totaled around $100-200 in miscellaneous costs.

During the trip, I also had to account for personal care and hygiene items such as toiletries, medication, and laundry services. These expenses were relatively small but necessary for maintaining a comfortable and clean travel experience. On average, I spent around $50-100 on personal care items throughout the 3-month journey.

It’s important to keep in mind that miscellaneous expenses can vary significantly depending on personal preferences and travel style. Some travelers may spend more on shopping or dining out, while others may have additional expenses such as visa fees or equipment rentals for specific activities.

All in all, my miscellaneous expenses for the 3-month trip totaled approximately $400-600. These additional costs were part of the overall travel experience and contributed to creating lasting memories and ensuring a comfortable journey.

When planning your own travels, it’s advisable to set aside a contingency budget for miscellaneous expenses. This will allow you to account for unexpected costs and enjoy your trip without being caught off guard by unexpected financial burdens.

Embarking on a 3-month journey across Europe was a dream come true for me. It allowed me to immerse myself in diverse cultures, explore historical landmarks, and create lasting memories. However, this incredible experience came with its fair share of costs.

After meticulously tracking my expenses, I can confidently share that the total cost of my 3-month trip in Europe amounted to approximately $8,180. This includes pre-trip expenses, transportation, accommodation, food and drink, sightseeing, travel insurance, and miscellaneous expenses.

It’s important to note that these figures are specific to my own travel style and personal choices. Your own travel expenses may differ based on various factors such as destinations, duration, accommodation preferences, and personal spending habits.

While the cost may seem substantial, it’s important to consider the value and experiences gained from such a journey. The opportunity to explore iconic landmarks, try new cuisines, connect with locals, and learn about different cultures is truly priceless.

Moreover, there are various ways to make your trip more budget-friendly, such as opting for affordable accommodations, using public transportation, and seeking out free or low-cost activities. It’s all about finding a balance between experiencing the essence of each destination and staying within your budget.

In conclusion, traveling for 3 months in Europe was an unforgettable adventure that required careful planning, budgeting, and prioritizing expenses. It allowed me to immerse myself in diverse cultures, indulge in new experiences, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

If you’re considering a similar journey, I encourage you to plan your trip wisely, research and compare prices, and make choices that align with your interests and budget. Remember, travel is an investment in yourself and the world, and with thoughtful planning, you can make your dream trip a reality without breaking the bank.

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How airfares have changed

How hotels room rates have changed, how rental car prices have changed, how restaurant prices have changed, how the price of movies, theaters and concerts has changed, smart money move: use travel rewards cards to book, if you’re planning to travel in 2024 ….

Some good news for travelers: Airfares, car rental and hotel prices in July were down compared to the same month last year.

The falling price of travel is good news for customers, considering the price of pretty much everything else is rising. In fact, average consumer prices across all items rose 2.9% year-over-year.

According to NerdWallet's Travel Price Index, the overall cost of travel is down 1% from the same month in 2023. Meanwhile, travel prices are up 9% compared with July 2019 (the last fully-normal July before lockdowns).

In short, expect the same trip taken this year to cost slightly less than it did this time last year, but more than it would if you had taken the trip before the pandemic. And even though travel prices are up 9% since pre-pandemic, that's still a much smaller price increase than the average increase of 22.6% across all items over the same period.

Still, there are smart moves you can take now to reduce the price of your next trip. Check out our travel saving suggestions below.

NerdWallet's Travel Price Index combines data from individual travel categories tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Consumer Price Index data, such as airfares, lodging, meals and rental cars.

Overall prices for the past 12 months through July 2024 rose 2.9% before seasonal adjustment. That's the smallest 12-month increase since March 2021.

Still, not every line item experiences inflation at the same rate — especially when it comes to travel. Some trips might actually be more or less expensive than in the past, depending on if you're driving versus flying, if you’re staying in a hotel and whether it involves a rental car.

To help you better understand how travel prices have changed, NerdWallet honed in on five categories:

Car rentals.

Food away from home.

Movies, theaters and concerts.

NerdWallet then compared those costs to their same prices a month ago and a year ago. Given how significantly COVID-19 altered the state of travel, the data also compares today’s prices to their pre-pandemic prices. For example, July 2024 is compared to July 2019 as the last corresponding pre-pandemic month.

Here’s what today’s travel prices look like:

When comparing July 2024 prices versus July 2023, U.S. airfares are down 7.1%. And when compared to pre-pandemic prices, airfares are also down — by an even larger margin of 8.2%. That's pretty staggering, considering average prices as a whole are up by 22.6% since July 2019.

Prices for lodging away from home — including hotels and motels in U.S. cities — dipped, too. The increase was much smaller, though, dropping 0.8% month-over-month. Hotel prices are also down from last year, falling by 2.8% versus July 2023.

Unlike airfares that are barely higher than pre-pandemic prices, hotel and motel prices are significantly higher than what they were pre-pandemic — though still not as high as the 22.6% all-items average increase.

High rental car prices were one of the biggest stories of pandemic-era travel. Though prices rose this month versus last, they have largely leveled off from pandemic-era highs. Still, they are still up an astounding 28.6% versus the same month in 2019. That's much more than the average rate of U.S. inflation.

For what it's worth, rental car prices are better now than they were a year ago. Car rental prices are down 6.2% year-over-year.

Food prices consistently rise nearly every month, and this month was no exception. In July 2024, the cost of food away from home was up 4.1% versus the same month in 2023.

And prices are far higher than pre-pandemic, with July 2024 prices coming in at 29.7% higher than what they were in July 2019. That's higher than the inflation rate across all items, meaning restaurant prices have risen more than many other categories of goods.

Like restaurants, entertainment prices see fairly consistent increases — save for a small dip in 2020. Prices are now up 22% from what they were in June 2019, which pretty much matches the general rate of inflation of 22.6% for that same period.

Still, the price for tickets to movies, theaters and concerts is up 3.9% year-over-year.

Paying for travel with points and miles versus cash isn’t as daunting a task as it may seem. Frequent flyer miles and hotel points can be accrued not just for recurring travel, but through other outlets as well. Credit card rewards and welcome bonuses can be one of the most popular ways to accrue a big stash of points for a lot less effort than living your life out of a suitcase.

In addition, travel credit cards can offer various money saving perks, like:

Complimentary trip insurance .

Savings on checked bags .

Waived foreign transaction fees .

Airport lounge access .

Cash back credits that can offset the annual fee.

Here's a sampling of cards that offer travel-related statement credits.

on Chase's website

on Bank of America's website

on Citibank's application

• 10 points per $1 on Chase Dining, hotel stays and car rentals purchased through Chase.

• 5 points per $1 on air travel purchased through Chase.

• 3 points per $1 on other travel and dining not booked with Chase.

• 1 point per $1 on other purchases.

• 5 points per $1 on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center.

• 3 points per $1 on eligible travel purchases and mobile wallet spending on Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay.

• 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.

• 10 ThankYou® points per $1 spent on hotels, car rentals and attractions booked through the Citi Travel site.

• 3 points per $1 on air travel and other hotel purchases.

• 3 points per $1 on supermarkets.

• 3 points per $1 on gas stations and EV charging stations.

• 3 points per $1 on restaurants.

$300 annual travel credit .

$325 annual credit.

$100 in airline incidental statement credits.

If you’re building your next vacation budget based on an early-pandemic-era trip, expect to pay far more now for pretty much every expense. Yet even though prices constantly feel like they’re getting higher, you can still save on travel with a little planning.

To avoid the costs of eating out, head to local grocery stores — which can be a fun activity on its own — or pack snacks from home. While in an airport, head to the lounge. Many credit cards have partnerships with airport lounge operators ( Priority Pass is a popular one) where you can typically expect complimentary snacks and drinks.

Methodology

NerdWallet conducted an analysis of the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index data released by the U.S. Department of Labor, which was most recently updated in August 2024 and measures prices of items like travel, groceries and cars. Prices usually change every month, but some prices change more than others.

Keep in mind, this data is based on July 2024 information, even though it is released in August 2024. Thus, prices you actually see may have actually improved (or gotten even worse) than this data, because it lags one month behind.

And even within the realm of travel, some expenses might go up, while others might go down.

The NerdWallet Travel Price Index combines data from the Consumer Price Index, weighted by the estimated spending in each category, which is based on 2019 travel expenditure data from the BLS.

Here are the spending categories considered, and how heavily each was weighted:

Flights: 36%.

Car rental: 6%.

Lodging: 30%.

Entertainment: 7%.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options

75,000 Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel.

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Planning Guide

Travel cost calculators for countries around the world.

Budget Your Trip is designed to help you plan a better vacation by gathering travel costs for various destinations around the world. Whether you're traveling on a shoestring budget, or looking to splurge on a luxury resort, our website will help you understand how to get the most for your money.

We offer travel planning resources that you can use to estimate, plan, and track your travel budget. Our information and resources are free of charge for travelers. If you're in the beginning stages of planning your trip, you can search for your destinations here , find your favorite place, and see what others have spent on low-end, mid-range, and luxury trips and vacations. Alternatively, you can select a country from the list of countries to find out what the typical mid-range travel costs are for that area. The costs are broken down by category and include everything from accommodation, to food, entertainment and transportation budgets. These destination budget pages also give you an overview of what to expect in your chosen country, things to see and do, how to best get around, and what you can expect from the local cuisine. From a country page, you can dive deeper into specific cities, too. This information is designed to be used as a starting point for you as you begin deciding where to go and how much you need to save.

All of our information comes from travelers just like you. All of the average daily travel costs are calculated from travel budgets that have been provided by real people who have already visited these locations. This way, you can get a realistic perspective on what you might spend. Our numbers are constantly updated to ensure that you get the most up-to-date information. If you register on our website (free) you can use our travel planning tools to help you plan your own budget before your trip even begins. You can break down your estimated expenses by category and see graphs and charts of where your money will likely go. Learn which cities and countries will have the greatest impact on your trip expenses, and rework your route to ensure that you get the most bang for your buck.

Then, once your trip begins, you can track your budget to make sure you don't overspend. Whether you're going on a one week holiday, or a one year odyssey, it helps to know that you're not spending more than you have saved. By tracking your budget on this website, you'll also be helping other travelers. If you notice your destination of choice is missing from our list, track your trip costs on our website and help future travelers. Your expenses will be added to our estimates, and as our data grows, so does our comprehensiveness and accuracy.

This is a tool that is created by travelers, for travelers. We understand how important budgeting is to a trip. Guidebooks may offer some budgeting advice, but information is often out-of-date, difficult to locate, and limited in its value. This website is supported by a community of travelers who want easy accessibility.

Are You Just Beginning?

Many travelers become overwhelmed when they begin planning their trip. If you're going on vacation for a few weeks, it's hard to narrow down your choices to one or two countries. If you're taking time off of work for a gap year, planning your route can get overwhelming to say the least. Whatever type of trip you're planning, you should first narrow your options down by region. Some parts of the world are more expensive than others, but within regions there is a lot of variability as well. You can also check out our travel planning guide for tips and advice on traveling cheaper.

Narrowing Your Options

The region or countries you decide to visit will dictate how much money your trip will require. It's best to understand costs before you begin your trip, so you know exactly what to expect from your destinations of choice.

Asia in particular has countries that range from super expensive, like Japan, to very low cost, like India or Nepal. Southeast Asia is well known as an affordable destination for those on a limited budget, but if you want a high end vacation, there are plenty of resorts in Thailand as well.

Africa can be surprisingly expensive for first time visits. Depending on your country of choice, the selection of hotels can be limited, restaurants may be overpriced, and safaris can quickly eat away at your budget. Still, you'll find plenty of affordable places to go in this vast continent. Ethiopia is an unexpected surprise for visitors who want to see a different side of Africa. Morocco is Africa with an Arab twist, and Kenya is probably your most affordable option if you're hoping to do a safari.

South America is another region that is reasonable in cost. Some countries, like Brazil, may quickly eat away at your budget, but others, like Bolivia, are perfect for those with limited financial options.

In Europe, you'll quickly find that your money goes a lot farther in the Eastern European countries than it does in the Western European countries. Still, prices can be quite high all over, so it's good to learn a few tricks, like couchsurfing, to ensure that your finances stay in check.

If you're headed to North America, national parks and small towns are usually the least expensive options. Consider traveling with a tent and you'll save yourself a lot of money. While hostels are few and far between, campgrounds are abundant, particularly near the most popular parks like the Grand Canyon and Yosemite. In Mexico, head inland and you'll find many more affordable choices than you would on the coast where luxury resorts are abundant.

The Caribbean Islands are not a popular option for independent travelers. You'll rarely find a backpacker spending time in the region, but if you're looking for a comfortable vacation with all the amenities, then you've found the right place to go. Despite the high costs, or perhaps because of them, it is important to understand which islands offer the best deals for cost conscious travelers.

Central America is a small region, but it has a lot to offer. It is a great introduction to a new culture, and your budget can be kept to a minimum. Still, if you're looking for a resort, you don't have to look far as there are many diverse places to stay in this fascinating area.

Many people shy away from the Middle East, but those that make the trip are greeted by a welcoming culture, friendly people, and a one of a kind experience. Countries are diverse in style, culture, and costs, so it's best to do your research ahead of time and choose places that will fit your travel style to ensure your trip is all that you hoped.

Australia and New Zealand are no longer budget destinations, but backpackers still flock to the area. By planning ahead and looking for the best deals you can ensure you get the most out of your trip.

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Ready to take the hassle out of planning and managing your vacation budget? Our online Free Travel Budget Calculator is  simple, and easy to use, and can help you plan and track your vacation expenses in just a few clicks.  

I’ve used these same methods and categories of expenses for every trip I’ve taken over the last 25 years. From multiple  3 month solo adventures through Europe and South America, to weeks long trips to Cuba and Vancouver Island, Canada with my family. 

Now online with automatic calculations, so you don’t have to mess around with spreadsheets or hand write in printables that clutter up your home. 

In this post you’ll get access to this free tool, plus, you’ll get my top tips for planning your budget effectively for your trips and how to save money on travel. All the advice you need for smarter travel planning is right here.

How to Use the Travel Budget Calculator & Try It Out!

Make sure to bookmark this page so you can come back to it anytime you need to track your vacation expenses and make travel plans.

This free vacation budget calculator will give you an estimate of total travel costs for your trip and whether your budget is enough to cover what you want to do.

It can help you identify areas you can potentially save money on trip expenses. Whether it’s choosing more budget-friendly hotels, walking or taking the bus instead of taxis, or prioritizing your top not-to-miss activities.

You can also start with your budget.

Then play around with the length of your trip, how much hotels, flights etc will cost to help you determine your price range for each travel expense as well.

• Enter 0 (zero) if there are certain categories you don’t need . The calculator will output an error ($NaN) if you don’t.
• Instructions for the calculator are below the Travel Budget Calculator, to give you an idea of what you should include under each budget item.

Vacation Budget Calculator

Calculator instructions.

Enter all your estimated expenses you’ve gathered during your vacation research.

Make sure it’s actually a realistic travel budget. For a  family trip with young kids, you’ll also need to factor other things like diapers, baby wipes etc.

• Travel Budget : Enter your overall vacation budget you have for this trip.
• Number of Travellers: Enter the number of people you are paying for on this trip
• Number of Nights: Enter the number of nights you will need accommodations for. This will be used to calculate hotel costs.
• Number of Vacation Days: Enter the number of days you will be on vacation. Include travel days to be safe . This will be used to calculate your overall food & drink, daily transportation and activity costs.
• Total Flight Costs: Enter the estimated total of flight costs for everyone travelling. Be sure to include any baggage fees.
• Transportation Costs: Enter the total transportation costs for the trip. This is for any major transport costs that aren’t flights like trains, city transfers, car or RV rentals.
• Daily Transportation Costs: Enter your anticipated daily transport costs. This is for things like taxis, buses, Ubers, parking costs etc, you might need to get around every day.
• Hotel Costs (Per Night): Enter the amount your accommodations will cost each night. Don’t forget to include any tips for housekeeping staff etc. you may need to pay.
• Total Tour Costs: Enter your overall total budget or cost for tours, including guide tips.
• Activity Costs (Per Day) : Enter the amount you expect to spend on activities daily (do not include tours). These are for things like seeing movies, souvenirs, shopping, trips to a rec centre / pool, bowling, seeing a hockey game or a concert etc.
• Food & Drink Costs (per Day): Enter your overall daily food & drink budget or expected costs for everyone. Don’t forget to include tips.
• Miscellaneous Expenses: Enter an amount of money you will have overall for unexpected expenses or miscellaneous costs that pop up. Be sure to also include extra travel expenses not covered elsewhere.
• Travel Insurance: Enter the overall amount of money you will pay for travel insurance for everyone. This is for things like travel health insurance, trip cancellation insurance etc.

Budget Outputs

Currency Note: While the output is in dollars (uses the $ symbol), you can really use any numerical currency you’d like. Just ignore the $ symbol.

Once you hit the calculate button, you will get 4 pieces of info based on the numbers you provided:

• Total Vacation Costs : This is the estimated cost for your vacation based on the info you provided.
• Over Budget / Under Budget: This is the amount you are either over or under budget. If your expenses are over your vacation budget, it will say Over Budget and the number will be negative. If it says Under Budget, that is the amount you are under your estimated budget.
• Travel Costs Per Day: This is the amount of money your trip will cost you each day.
• Cost Per Person Per Day: This is the amount of money your trip will cost you per person, each day.

Make sure to review your results. If your over budget are there things you can do to bring the costs down? Or is there a way you can save or make more money before your trip?

Why You Need A Travel Budget

Listen, I am all for spending a little extra to do things our family doesn’t get to do at home. 

But there is nothing more anxiety-inducing than running out of money on a trip, or having to pay off huge credit card bills at 28%  interest because you didn’t plan ahead.

This is where a vacation budget can really help. 

It doesn’t mean you can’t have fun or spend money.

Creating a budget will actually help you be able to afford your dreams. Plus be able to relax & have fun on your vacation knowing you won’t be in debt when you get back home.

The trip budget calculator will make financial planning fun, and easy.

How To Set Your Travel Budget & Determine Expenses

1. determine your overall travel budget.

First things first. Decide on your overall vacation budget or the money you are willing to spend on this trip.

When determining your overall vacation budget, you’ll want to consider a few things:

• How much money are you willing to spend on this trip?
• How much have you already saved?
• How long do you plan to go for? (more or less time can impact your budget)
• How many people will be travelling? (some places like Europe limit 4 people to a hotel room, this can significantly impact cost)
• When do you want to travel and how much time do you have to add to your vacation fund?
• How much extra can you afford to put away every week / month on top of your regular bills & household expenses?
• Is there any way you can decrease household expenses, or increase your income to add to your vacation fund faster?

Just make sure it’s a realistic budget. It doesn’t do anybody any good to use too low or too high numbers as a starting point. 

2. Do Your Research

The type of trip you want to take, the length and the type of activities you want to do, will really impact your budget.

For example a week long trip to Thailand will be much different than a week in Japan, or a trip to Disneyworld.

Do some intial research to give you an idea of what your basic travel expenses will costs, so you can have ballpark figures to enter in the travel cost calculator.

You can always google average costs of living / travelling at your destination.

Careful planning is an important part of any travel budget. 

3. Find Ways to Cut Costs

Unless you have a rich benefactor, or suddenly won the lottery, it’s a good idea to consider ways you can cut costs, save money and use your travel budget wisely.

Besides using our holiday budget calculator, our favourite ways to save money on travel expenses.

Transportation & Accommodation

• Find flight deals & error fares : The best way is with Going (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) Flight tickets can be a big expense and make up a good portion of the total cost usually. 
• Consider housesitting: is our go-to site for housesitting around the world.
• Rent a place with a kitchen : Save money on food with a vacation rental . They can also be cheaper than renting multiple hotel rooms if you have a large family or group.
• Compare car rentals: Using Discover Cars can help you save up to 70% by quickly comparing rental cars options.
• Book early: Hotels, flights and trains are generally cheaper booked in advance. You won’t want to risk paying significantly more waiting until last minute.
• Take public transportation: If it’s safe to do so, take the local bus, or walk instead of relying on expensive taxis all the time.

⭐️ Also check out our list of the best ways to save money on flights .

General Money Saving Tips

• Travel off season or peak season: Not only is it usually much cheaper, there’s usually fewer tourists.
• Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees : Those transaction fees can really add up. Also consider if travel credit cards with points are for you.
• Eat where the locals eat : Avoiding the touristy restuarants, and eating where the locals eat will not only save you lots of money, it will give you a more authentic look into their local cuisine and culture.
• Avoid popular destinations:  The most popular touristy destinations  often cost a lot of money, compared to smaller, lesser known destinations.  
• Consider using travel agents: Sometimes a travel agent can find you a great deal, with much less work on your part. 
• Adjust your travel style: Luxury resorts may be out of your price range. Road trips, camping trips can be just as memorable for for a family vacation.
• Plan free activities : Pick some free activities to do in between your more expensive tours, theme parks, & day trips to ancient ruins. 
• Check out these ways to save on flights

Final Thoughts Using The Vacation Budget Calendar

Creating a vacation budget might seem challenging, but don’t worry! Equipped with the right tools and a bit of strategic planning, your next epic adventure is closer than you think.

Using a vacation budget calculator can help guide you to make smart, affordable choices, allowing you to experience the journey you’ve always dreamed of, without stressing about expenses.

Travel can be exciting and enjoyable at all budget levels. So here’s to making memories with your family, and friends.

Related travel planning resources:

• Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist
• Family beach vacation tips
• Tips for saving money on road trips
• Easy ways to build a travel fund
• Save money on attractions: Where to buy online tour tickets

Donna Garrison is the founder of Packed for Life, an ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with her family. With a unique perspective on travelling on a budget gathered over 30 years, 20 countries and 5 continents she gives families the tools & resources they need to experience the joys of travelling more for less through practical solutions. She helps over 20,000 families a month plan & take the family travel, camping and road trip adventures of their dreams in Canada, the USA and around the world. Contact her at: Donna [at] packedforlife.com

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Full-Time Travel: How Much Does It Actually Cost to Travel the World?

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Due to our least favorite world traveler, COVID-19, no one is going anywhere at the moment. HOWEVER, this is a great time to plan for future trips, and depending on your financial situation start saving for your dream trip. So, how much does it actually cost to travel the world?

Less than it costs to pay rent in America. Seriously.

We do A LOT of advocating for budget travel and have often proclaimed that it’s possible to travel the world for $50 a day or less. And we aren’t the only backpackers/bloggers making this claim. We decided to put our money where our mouth is on our most recent adventure.

A one-way ticket to Asia. Our plan was for a year–maybe two– depending on how our daily budget faired. Unfortunately, the microbial world had other plans.

Although our long-term trip came to a screeching halt with the onslaught of this global pandemic, we still managed to travel for 6-months throughout Asia. And we plan to return abroad the day travel bans are lifted.

But after 6 months of logging our every expense, we have the hard numbers to help you determine just how much it costs to travel long-term.

This post will be continuously updated once we continue our trip abroad. So stay tuned.

How Much Does it Cost Two People to Travel the World for 6 Months?

We lumped our funds together and set off with the goal of spending $55 per day- everything included . Flights, accommodation, food, and all the fun stuff in between. 182 days abroad &…

Our Grand Total was $9,277.37

This means we spent less than $5,000 per person. And as for our daily budget…we crushed it. Our average daily budget was just $50.97 as a couple.

You may be wondering ‘ Why is Malaysia so expensive ?’. And due to a small hiccup on our end, we had to buy another round-trip flight back to Sumatra to retrieve Evan’s laptop. Whoopsies. In actuality, our Malaysia costs would have been $61 a day had it not been for those multiple flights. Mistakes happen.

Budget Breakdown

$50 a day seems like a teensy-tiny budget. But we could have spent less. Thanks to my handy-dandy TripCoin app it’s really easy to see exactly where that money went.

Financial-Friendly Tip : If you’re planning a trip, I cannot recommend TripCoin enough. Even if you’re not sticking to a strict budget, it’s proven you’ll spend less just by recording exactly where your money goes.

Our Average Accommodation Cost: $11.66

Our Average Meal Cost: $3.92

That average meal cost is also taking into account the random times we decided to eat at nicer restaurants and treat ourselves. ( It does not, however , include alcohol) . & about 80% of our lodgings provided breakfast.

That adds up to an average of $19.50 spent on food & a place to sleep every day. The other $30 per day was spent on alcohol, activities, trains, flights, souvenirs, and replacement clothes.

Day to day we were probably spending around $30-35. But a few bigger ticket items in each country add up. ( & of course the few mishaps like getting $150 stolen from our bungalow in Pai, Thailand & forgetting our laptop at airport security. )

Our Travel Hacks

So, how much does it cost to travel the world? That’s kinda up to you. These are the travel tips and hacks we used to travel cheaply and save money every step of the way.

Stay in Guesthouses . Or CouchSurf.

Cheap accommodation is key. You’ll likely spend very little time in your room so don’t waste your daily budget on a place to sleep. We tried Couchsurfing in Sumatra & loved it. You sleep for free in a local’s spare room ( or couch depending on the place ) & often you get an additional insight into the city. Our host took us to an amazing dinner spot we never would have found otherwise and gave us a little tour around the city.

Booking.com is where we find our cheapest guesthouses & accommodation.

Prioritize your needs..

After about a week, we decided we didn’t need to pay extra for A/C anymore. A fan in most countries is more than sufficient. That saves you a bundle when booking rooms. The same goes for transport–we opted for the cheaper 3rd class seats on trains if the ride was 12-hours or less.

Travel Slowly .

Take a ferry, bus, or train instead of a flight. When your traveling long-term time isn’t as much of a concern. You’ll save loads and get to watch the scenery pass by from the window seat. Just be sure to download some good podcasts first.

Eat the Street Food. Or at the very least at local restaurants.

Don’t be afraid. I’ve never gotten food poisoning from street food. It’s cheap, authentic, and so damn delicious. Also, eat local cuisine, avoid any foreign or westernized restaurants.

Clarification: I have gotten food poisoning a number of times. Just never from street food. You can read all about our travel mistakes and mishaps here .

Learn Local Transportation. As frustrating as it may be.

Buses & trains should become your best friend. Take the subway. Ride the Skyrail. Don’t just jump into the nearest Tuk-Tuk or Taxi because they are often 10x the price.

Arrange Your Own Transport.

Buy your bus or train tickets at the station. Rent yourself a motorbike. Hostels and guesthouses will offer to arrange these kinds of things for you but convenience comes with a higher price tag.

Take the Long Route.

Certain activities (especially hikes) can be DIY. Don’t always gravitate toward the planned excursions. We saved nearly $40 by taking the long route to Mount Bromo in Indonesia instead of opting for the jeep trek.

Find Freebies where you can.

Many guesthouses offer free breakfast and many cities have free walking tours. Some guesthouses even offer free train station pick-up. Do a little research and you’ll save loads.

Make Friends.

Splitting the cost of a private room or transport to your next activity definitely lightens your financial burden. Safari jeeps, Angkor Wat tuk-tuk tours, basically anything charging by the vehicle–it pays to have friends.

Travel Light.

Carry-on only . This lets you opt for the super-saver fares on flights. Outside of the US and Europe airlines are a lot more lenient on the weight/size of your carry-on. But the lighter you travel the less likely you’ll ever need to pay for that checked baggage.

Buy a LifeStraw Water Bottle .

Water adds up. & bottled water is horrendous for the planet. You’ll have to purchase bottles of water almost everywhere you go in the world & just having a LifeStraw filter bottle saved us $500 on this trip alone.

Where We Traveled

We traveled to 9 different South Asian countries. But utilizing the tips outlined above this travel budget can be applied almost everywhere in the world. From South & Central America to the tropical islands of the Pacific to the crisp fall colors of Eastern Europe–the vast majority of the world can be seen for $55 a day.

Big Ticket Items

Flights. Obviously, getting to the other side of the world is a huge expense. We managed to find tickets for $360 apiece to Bali with a 3-day layover in Singapore. Check out my tips for scoring cheap flights .

Excursions. Trekking to find wild Orangutans in the jungles of Sumatra. Visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand. Embarking on a 12-hour safari in Wilpattu National Park in search of elusive wild leopards. (Spoiler: we found them.) Visiting Angkor Wat & Borobudur temple complexes. Whale watching in Mirissa, Sri Lanka.

Pre-Trip Expenses

I did not include our travel insurance and the cost of tossing all of our belongings into a storage unit in the overall trip budget. I wrote a huge guide on how to save money for long term-travel that includes all my pre-trip recommendations.

We found the cheapest storage unit we could find. $30 a month for a year sitting right on the border of the United States and Tijuana, Mexico.

As for travel insurance, this was the first trip I decided to bite the bullet and get it. Thankfully, we did. Because a nasty bout of food poisoning near killed me in India. All drama aside, I did have to be hospitalized 3 times for the one stubborn food-borne illness and thankfully I was fully reimbursed.

WorldNomads is the top of the line adventure travel insurance that will cover you even if you maim yourself base-jumping into a tank of great white sharks. ( Maybe not quite that literally. ) We went with the cheaper and more conservative coverage of SevenCorners . It cost us $650 for coverage for the two of us.

I highly recommend checking out Travel Insurance Master to browse insurance companies to find the best deal. Their website is super easy to use and has cheaper companies like SevenCorners. Check them out here .

For more info on trip planning and budget hacks on how to save money to travel the world, I wrote a big beautiful guide on all things travel hacking.

How You Can Do Better

A large expense of ours was alcohol. We enjoy a beer or 10 on beach days and craft cocktails with dinner. As bartenders, trying cocktails from around the world is important to us. I’m not going to do the math on how much we spent on alcohol…just for my own sanity.

That’s honestly the only expense from our trip that seems a bit lavish. I would never recommend you cut spending on activities because that’s the whole reason you’re traveling in the first place.

Cost of Living in the US

I probably don’t need to outline how much it costs you to live in your home country BUT, for the sake of comparison, I’m going to anyway.

My monthly Los Angeles Expenses:

• Electricity/Internet: $35
• Car Insurance: $112
• Phone Bill: $40
• MONTHLY TOTAL: $1,012

This doesn’t even begin to cover expenses like groceries, gas, and having any kind of social life.

While traveling my TOTAL monthly expenses were $773.11 vs. $1,012 in basic living expenses back home.

Travel isn’t as expensive as we are made to think. If you have a burning curiosity to see the world and the drive to make it happen—money isn’t what is standing in your way.

If you need help planning your next trip abroad feel free to reach out ( I’m more than happy to help ) or check out my guide on how to plan a long term adventure abroad ( coming soon ).

Looking for other Trip Planning Resources?

• How to Finance Long-Term Travel & Make Your Dream Trip Cheaper.
• Your Guide to Scoring a Cheap Flight For Any Destination.
• How to Avoid Getting Scammed in South-East Asia.

Further Reading...

A Savvy Budget Travel Guide to Jordan (How to Save on Petra + Wadi Rum)

What’s In My Backpack: The Ultimate Long-Term Travel Packing List

Mongolia Travel Costs: How Much We Spent & What To Budget For Your Mongolia Trip!

This is a great article, so helpful! What one can also do is save up on ATM and bank fees. Save up on ATM side of the fees with apps like ATM Fee Saver – it gives a list of atms in many countries that do not charge any fees to foreign card holders or have much lower fees than others along with withdrawal limits. quite a life saviour. worth adding to your list of tricks! And also a get fee free cards while travelling.

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Your Complete Guide to Climbing Adam's Peak: The 12,000 Step Stairway to Heaven in Sri Lanka

Sri lanka's best beaches: which one is right for you, beyond_the_bucketlist.

How Much Does 3 Months in Europe Cost: A Complete Budget Breakdown

Here at The Jet Lag Journey, we love travel transparency. When we first started researching travel, it was very difficult to understand how much money we needed to go from occasionally taking a 10 day vacation, to really making this a lifestyle. We spent the summer of 2023 traveling through Europe to 14 countries and want to share exactly how much a trip like this costs! In this post, we will give a full budget breakdown on how much money we spent while traveling Europe for 3 months.

Why we chose to spend your summer in Europe

Over the last few years, we have intentionally restructured our life to have location freedom with work. We spent all of 2022 basically as professional wedding guests. We attended 12 weddings in one year! That meant that all of our time and money was going towards travel for these events. While we love our friends and cherish the time we spent celebrating their love, we were ready to take a trip that was for us. Even though we had taken many trips in the last few years since our original 6 month backpacking trip in 2019, we were ready to be on the road again for an extended time.

Europe is truly our favorite place in the world. Fingers crossed, one day we will be European citizens and actually move there, but for now we are limited to our 90 days in the schengen region in a 180 day period. Even though we had already been all over Europe, there were still tons of new destinations on our bucket list. There are also cities that we will always love and wanted to experience living there for more than a few days.

Where we went on our 3 month trip around Europe

It is always difficult to choose where to go when planning long-term travel. You’d be surprised how quickly the calendar fills up and you still don’t have everything you want to do on the list! Our Europe summer 2023 was a mix of traveling to new destinations and living in places that we already knew loved.

We’ll be honest, this itinerary was jam packed. Even with a decent amount of extended stays, we oftentimes still felt rushed and exhausted. It is difficult to maintain work-life balance when you are also trying to enjoy traveling full time! When we do this again, we will likely travel at a slower pace.

Read our detailed guide on how to plan long-term travel for more trip planning information!

Europe summer 2023 Itinerary:

• Lake Bled, Slovenia
• Split, Croatia
• Annecy, France
• Lausanne, Switzerland
• Thun, Switzerland
• Cagliari, Sardinia
• Valletta, Malta
• Stockholm, Sweden
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Cork, Ireland
• Edinburgh, UK
• Malaga, Spain
• Marrakech, Morocco
• Mallorca, Spain
• Porto, Portugal
• Madeira, Portugal
• Lisbon, Portugal

How much did we spend over 3 months in Europe?

It doesn’t matter if you are a solo traveler or traveling with a partner, you’ll be able to understand this budget breakdown for either! Since we are two people, we combine the expenses, but we will also list totals as cost per person.

So…how much money did we spend in Europe for three months? Here’s a detailed breakdown by category!

So, there you have it – it cost us each slightly over $10,000 to spend three months in Europe . Let me be very clear here, you do not need $10,000 to spend three months in Europe. In fact, we go into more detail about how we did a 6 month trip around the world in 2019 for almost the same amount of money! When we did that trip in 2019 though, we did not have jobs. We had fully quit our jobs to travel. This summer we were both working full time as digital nomads, so we were able to travel on a bit higher of a budget since we had income while traveling, not just tearing through our savings.

No matter what your budget is, we believe that there are always ways to be smart with your money while traveling with out sacrificing your experience. Read 40 ways to travel cheaper here!

Below we talk through each budget category in more detail.

Budget Category Descriptions

Housing budget

The housing category is exactly what it sounds like – it’s how much it cost TOTAL for accommodations all summer. Our budget goal for housing for the summer in Europe was an average of $100/night. Guess what – we were in Europe for 87 days total so we ended up under budget at $94/night average!

When we did our 6 month trip around the world in 2019, our housing budget was only $40 a night. This is the biggest factor in why that overall trip cost was much lower than our 2023 Europe summer.

An important thing to note here is that we set this as an average cost per night. There were some cities like Copenhagen, where there are simply no adequate housing options for less than $180 a night. There are also some cities like Malaga, Spain where we found a great Airbnb for $70 a night. We also stayed for free with friends both in London and Ireland. The point is that the budget we set was meant to be an average! As long as it ends up on track in the end, not every city is the same with what value you will get with your budget.

As digital nomads, we stayed mostly in Airbnbs this summer. It was essential for us to have our own kitchen, a comfortable bed and good wifi. Be sure to thoroughly read reviews before booking any housing during extended travel!

Transportation budget

Transportation includes more than just our flights, we included any form of transportation in this category. That means taxis, trains, ferries, public buses and anything else that we paid for to get from point A to point B that wasn’t our own two feet.

One call out here is that we booked our trans-Atlantic flights with credit card points. Those flights are typically a large transportation expense when someone is planning a trip to Europe!

Pro-tip: When booking flights in Europe (and in general), make sure to read the fine print on the airline’s luggage policy. If you end up needing to gate check a bag or your carry-on does not fit, you can get hit with an unexpected large fine. Even as experienced travelers, we got hit with an unexpected $150 charge each when flying home on TapAir Portugal. The weight for the carry-on bag was insanely low and they were weighing everyone’s bags at the gate. Have a gameplan for your bags before you show up to the airport!

Use code JLJ10 for 10% off all eSIM purchases.

Grocery budget

The grocery category includes anything that we bought from a supermarket or convenience store. Since we were traveling for three months, we cooked many meals ourselves. It would be impossible to eat at restaurants the amount that you would on a one week Europe trip. We also love to cook meals any chance we can during long-term travel!

The cost of groceries in Europe varies by country. For example in Switzerland, even though groceries are the cheapest option for meals, it is still drastically more expensive than grocery shopping in Italy. No matter though, grocery shopping will be your cheapest option when traveling on a budget.

Restaurant budget

Ok so here’s the deal, we are not the biggest foodies in the world. With that said, we love to eat out when we can, especially in Europe! We also always look for the best bang for our buck. We will not dine at a fancy restaurant just because it is the top recommended place on Google. Seth is an expert at digging through google maps and finding local spots with the best deals.

Like stated before, long-term travel is very different from taking a week-long holiday. We typically only eat at restaurants while traveling 2-3 times a week at most and will try one local establishment in each city. Overall, European dining is typically much cheaper than in the United States. You can get a full meal with wine in countries like Portugal, Spain or Italy for less than $20 a person. Of course, countries like Sweden, Denmark and Switzerland will take your entire bank account if you dine out too much!

Bar and pub budget

To some it may seem strange that we have bars and restaurants as their own categories, but we’ll be honest with you all, we enjoy a good party! Bar hopping is one of our favorite ways to dive into a new city and embrace the local culture. We have days and nights where we may not eat out, but we will find a great happy hour deal or simply have a night out with other travelers.

The bar and restaurant budget categories are where things can get very personal as a traveler. If you love to try missiline star restaurants and drink martinis while traveling, you may need to budget much more for these categories. Our favorite drink is the cheapest beer in town, so it is possible this number is actually much lower than it could have compared to someone who may not be as conscious about how much each drink costs.

We didn’t have an exact budget in mind for how much we planned to spend at bars all summer in Europe (because who could really plan that), but we will say that we did our best to always look for the best deals in town and stick to the cheaper drinks on the menu. That’s an accomplishment in itself!

Activity budget

The activities portion of the budget is reserviced for typical touristy things that you would do in a new city. Examples of this include castle entry fees, museums, funiculars to viewpoints, and things like that!

We do not set a limit on this budget because we do not always know in advance which activities we will want to do, but we try our best to stick to things we are really excited about. We will not enter a museum or tour a building that we are not eager to see. These types of expenses can add up if you are not cautious!

Our daily travel budget

If you know us personally at all, then you know that Seth is a budget guru. He is an expert at setting and making sure we stick to our daily budget! As long-term travelers, sticking to a budget is essential to making sure we can maintain this lifestyle. If you are traveling for 1-2 weeks, it is easy to convince yourself that you do not need to worry about your expenses. That is 100% not the case when travel is your lifestyle.

The easiest way to break down the budget is with a daily average. We do not include major transportation or housing in our daily budget because we view those as overall trip expenses. It is too complicated to add those into the day-to-day expenses. Our daily budget was $100 or $50/person average over the entire trip . It is important to keep in mind that this is an average number. There were some days that we spent $0 and some that we spent over $200 depending on what was the plan for the day!

We ended the summer at an average of $91 per day total or $45 per person/day without including housing or major transportation costs. This average was under budget – yay!

To further help you envision a travel budget (and give some travel inspo!), we put together this budget spreadsheet freebee to go along with this post. This spreadsheet will be helpful if you are more of a visual learner and want to see a detailed breakdown by destination.

How to manage your travel budget

Team JLJ over here loves a travel budget! We totally understand that setting a budget and sticking to it is not everyone’s area of expertise. The truth about budgeting is that it is a muscle that needs to be strengthened. The more you do it, the better you will get at sticking to it!

Our best recommendation for sticking to your budget is to download an app that tracks everything you spend on the go. There are tons of apps like this out there, but our favorite app that we used this summer is TravelSpend . It feels odd at first to enter each expense, but after a few days it will just become second nature. This is the best way to track your spending while traveling!

We also love this app because it stores all of the details we need for recommendations! Someone asks where our favorite dinner was in Porto, Portugal? No problem! We can easily look back to where we went and how much it cost.

There are a lot of factors that go into establishing your own personal travel budget. We go into all of the details in our post about how to make a travel budget.

Why you should plan your own summer in Europe

The truth is that there is no bad time to travel to Europe, but the summer in Europe is truly incredible. While it is peak tourist season, it is also the best weather for beachy destinations. If you prefer to go in the off-seasons, we recommend traveling in the spring or fall when it will be less crowded but still mild temperatures.

Get inspired with this Europe bucket list to start planning your own adventure today!

Our goal with this post was to provide some clarity if you are planning your own extended Europe trip. We always do our best to be transparent with travel costs and expenses because we understand how overwhelming it is when you want to travel, but don’t have a concept of how much money you will need!

If this post resonated at all, leave or comment or rea c h out to us with any thoughts or questions. We always love to connect and help other adventures accomplish their travel goals!

Happy traveling! XX Maddy & Seth

Hi friends! Welcome to The Jet Lag Journey.

This is an online destination that tackles difficult travel questions in order to make worldwide travel practical and accessible. Happy exploring!

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The cost of traveling Europe: real budget numbers from 9+ years of travel

What is the real cost of traveling Europe?

How do you afford to do it full-time? 

How much do I need to save if I want to travel in Europe for a year (or two years or a month or six months)?

As someone who has been traveling full time for nearly nine years, most of that time in Europe, these are probably the questions I get most often about my lifestyle.

Money, unsurprisingly, is the biggest obstacle people think they’ll face on the road. Because if vacations are so pricey, wouldn’t full-time travel be even more so?

(Psst.  Here’s a full breakdown of why it’s not .)

This is why for the last 10+ years, while I’ve been traveling full-time, I’ve kept track of my budgets  all over the world. Because the truth is that full-time travel can be expensive (just like staying put can be expensive), but it doesn’t have to be . And the only way I know to prove it is to share my own real budgets.

Today, I’m back to share more budget updates with you. More insights into how I travel full-time and what it costs to live and travel in Europe.

First, though, let’s talk about travel styles…

What full-time travel looks like for me

First, it’s important to say that there’s no right or wrong way to travel full time . There’s no standard. Every person I know who does it does it differently .

I have friends who circle back to their favorite places every single year. I have friends who are always chasing new adventures. I’ve met digital nomads who live out of hostels and move every few days and nomads who spend a year or more in one place.

So, before I dive into how I travel, I’ll caveat it by saying that my way is not the way . There are people who travel on a much lower budget than mine and people who travel on a higher budget than mine. There are people who travel faster and people who travel slower. This budget breakdown is based on my experiences and my experiences alone.

Okay, so what are my experiences ? 

For the first few years, I traveled solo with my dog . For five years, I traveled as part of a couple (though my budgets here on the blog reflect my half of shared expenses + 100% of my personal expenses). And now I’m back to solo-girl-with-dog-takes-on-the-world. ( Here’s a comparison of costs solo vs. traveling with someone else .)

I mostly travel around Europe, though I’ve also done a bit of North and South America in the past few years (and before I hit the road full-time, I visited every continent except Antarctica). 

I prefer to stay in one place for at least a month (and sometimes two or three) and I tend to rent comfortable apartments in local neighborhoods. If I’m staying in a hotel or hostel, it’s usually only for a weekend trip or a travel day.

I’m a foodie through and through, so I devote a large portion of my budget to good, fresh, usually organic food and I eat out pretty regularly, especially if I’m in a place known for its cuisine.

I work part-time (on writing books , content strategy and copywriting ). This means big chunks of my week are devoted to work, so someone retired or vacationing is likely to spend quite a bit more than I do. 

And in my spare time, I love to cycle, hike, read, explore, and eat, most of which is cheap or free and keeps entertainment budgets on the low side. I rarely do museums or indoor attractions.

The cost of traveling Europe: monthly expense breakdown

Before we get into individual budgets around the world, here’s a breakdown of my general monthly expenses and how I approach them:

Housing : This was my biggest expense in the US, and it’s my biggest expense now. From 2012 to 2015, when I was traveling solo, I spent about $1,000 per month. In 2015 to 2021, my partner and I split the rent, so we could afford a nicer space and usually keep our individual spending on the lower side. I shot for under $800 per person per month and we often came in under $600 each. Now, solo again and with accommodation prices having risen over the years, I’m upping my housing budget to $1,500. I’ll still try to come in under when I can, but that’s my new ceiling.

So, what’s the secret to affordable accommodations while traveling in Europe? Traveling slow. Monthly rental costs are significantly lower than nightly or weekly rentals. On sites like  Flatio and Airbnb, monthly discounts run anywhere from 20% – 70% .

Food:  Perhaps unsurprisingly, this foodie’s second highest expense is meals. I track my spending on groceries separately from my spending on eating out. I don’t put a budget ceiling on groceries because eating fresh, high-quality food is really important to me and I’d rather spend a bit more on groceries (and a bit less on other things) than take shortcuts with my health or joy. 

In the states, I shopped at organic grocery stores and tried to buy healthier options, which were often a bit pricier. In Europe, I shop at fresh markets, local butchers, and tiny bakeries most of the time and stay away from imports that might have questionable chemicals or ingredients.

I always strive to only buy what I need and to buy it in the best quality, most local form I can. I mostly cook at home instead of eating out and when I do eat out I go for quality over quantity. 

Recent grocery budgets have run about $393 ( Zagreb, Croatia ), $614 ( Thun, Switzerland ), $653 ( Bad Ischl, Austria ), and $429 ( Tartu, Estonia ). Eating out budgets in those same locations were around $257 (Zagreb), $0 (Thun), $41 (Bad Ischl), and $88 (Tartu). This means totals for those three places landed at $650 (Zagreb), $614 (Thun), $694 (Bad Ischl), and $517 (Tartu). As you can see, food spending varies, but not enormously. If you read my older budgets, you’ll also notice that the average has gone up over time (which makes sense, because inflation).

Transportation: Since I tend to stay longer in one place, transportation costs generally run pretty reasonable (e.g. far less than I spent when I owned a car). Every month or two, I buy a long-distance train ticket or two, and maybe once or twice a year I take a flight (though I try to fly as little as possible both because I hate flying and I try to be conscious of my environmental footprint).

In between big train journeys, I  choose to walk whenever possible  (which, in Europe, is nearly always) and only take buses and metros when the weather is walking-prohibitive, if the walk would be more than an hour long, if I’m carrying something heavy, or if I’m in a particularly busy city and the walk would be crowded or stressful. 

These days, I spend anywhere from about $25 (Prague unlimited monthly transit pass) on a month where I’m staying put to $300ish (trains from Rennes, France, to Prague, Czech Republic) on a month when I’m moving from one base to another.

Luna the traveling pooch’s food and care: This varies a little from country to country, but rarely exceeds $200 per month. Luna eats a homemade diet primarily consisting of rabbit, fish, quinoa, and veggies (the diet was created with a veterinary nutritionist and if you decide to do the same, I highly recommend hiring one through your vet), and I’m not very strict about separating her food budget from mine, so expect that some of the grocery budget is actually going to Luna.

As with human health care, I’ve found vet care to be significantly more affordable in Europe (compared to the US). In Latvia, four injections, a blood test, two weeks of pancreatic enzyme pills, a vet consult, and an exam cost just over $100. In Dubrovnik, Croatia, in a similar vet emergency, the bill for the sedation, IV fluids, blood work, x-ray, exam, anti-nausea shot, and 100 days worth of pancreas pills was about $150. In the US, the cost would have been at least tripled in each of those cases. A single blood test in Colorado cost us upwards of $200 last time we were there.

Entertainment/fun money:  When I’m traveling, most of my activities are free or cheap, so this line item is always pretty small compared to the others.

Supplies:  These tend to run less abroad as well, in part because I am careful about what I buy, since I carry everything on my back, and, in part because I’m less bored and thus feel less of a need to shop. The ironic and wonderful thing about this is that the things I buy are often higher quality and more expensive, yet I generally spend less overall than I did in the states.

Health insurance   and healthcare : Since I’m currently based in Portugal, I’m relying on the local health system. While traveling more extensively, I previously paid $268 per month for GeoBlue insurance that covered me anywhere in the world except the US. Before that, I tried travel insurance through World Nomads, which I found wildly frustrating (despite marketing themselves to travelers, they require you to jump through a LOT of paperwork hoops that require access to printers, scanners, and copy machines) and IMG Global, who ignored my emails and took months upon months to even acknowledge my claims after I was hospitalized on Malta. I would not recommend either company.

For anyone who’s used a healthcare system abroad, it’ll come as no surprise that pretty much everywhere in cheaper than the US. Pre-Obamacare, I paid $150 for three months of birth control pills in the US. A three-month supply (and a doctor visit to get the prescription) in Germany cost me under $100. In Switzerland, that number dropped to around $50. And in Vietnam, the same pills (same ingredients, different brand name) were $10 and available over the counter.

In all, I try to keep monthly spending under $2,500 (not including my business spending). And even with this as my budget ceiling, I often come in under. A few months ago, I did the math on the 30+ real Europe travel budgets linked below (scroll down for links) and the monthly average came in at $1,637 .

For those who’d like a more detailed look at my monthly budgets around the world, here they all are categorized by price range (click on the links for in-depth details on the budgets):

My real monthly budgets

From cheapest to most expensive monthly budget. Click on each location for a more detailed breakdown.

Non-European locations are marked with an *. My favorite places appear in bold. Cost is in parentheses. And I’ve indicated the year the budget is from (obviously account for some inflation when using budgets from 10 years ago) and whether the budget was solo travel or traveling with a partner/friend (partnered travel typically means lower housing costs).

Under $1350 per month:

Konjic, Bosnia and Herzegovina / one month ($1157) 2017 / partnered

Labin, Croatia / one month ($1175) 2021 / solo

Tartu, Estonia / one month ($1213) 2020 / partnered

Tulum, Mexico / one month ($1232)* 2018 / partnered

Kotor, Montenegro / one month ($1253) 2019 / partnered

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina / one month ($1296) 2017 / partnered

Sayulita, Mexico  /  one month  ($1301)* 2013 / solo

Riga, Latvia / one month ($1313) 2019 / partnered

Split, Croatia  /  one month ($1317 & $1241) 2019 & 2013 / partnered & solo

Zagreb, Croatia  /  one month ($1337) 2018 / solo

Playa del Carmen, Mexico  /  one month  ($1350)* 2013 / solo

Under $1,500 per month:

Taormina, Italy  /  one month  ($1364) 2017 / partnered

Porto, Portugal  /  one month ($1366) 2022 / solo, living full-time here

Kranjska Gora, Slovenia / one month  ($1385) 2017 / partnered

Toledo, Spain  /  one month  ($1388) 2015 / solo

Kobarid, Slovenia  /  one month  ($1422) 2015 / solo

Brasov, Romania  /  one month ($1433) 2018 / partnered

Dubrovnik, Croatia / one month  ($1443) 2017 / partnered

Tallinn, Estonia   /   one month ($1460) 2019 / partnered

Under $1,700 per month:

Interlaken, Switzerland  /  one month ($1558) 2019 / partnered

Ljubljana, Slovenia  /  two weeks  ($808) 2015 / solo

Bad Ischl, Austria  /  one month ($1618) 2020 / partnered

Rennes, France / one month  ($1648) 2018 / partnered

Nerja, Spain  /  one month  ($1689) 2015 / solo

Edinburgh, Scotland  /  one month  ($1697) 2012 / solo

Under $1,800 per month:

Ljubljana, Slovenia / second stay, one month  ($1735) 2017 / partnered

Grenoble, France / one month  ($1739) 2018 / partnered

Prague, Czechia  /  one month ($1752) 2018 / partnered

Under $2,000 per month:

Perugia, Italy  /  one month  ($1882) 2013 / solo

Flagstaff, Arizona  /  one month  ($1893)* 2016 / solo

Rome, Italy  /  one month  ($1911) 2017 / partnered

Chamonix, France  /  two weeks  ($962) 2015 / solo

Vancouver, Canada  /  one month  ($1988)* 2016 / partnered

Over $2,000 per month:

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland  /  three monthly budgets compared  (varies) 2015 (and before) / solo

Amsterdam, Netherlands  /  two weeks  ($1008) 2015 / partnered

Biarritz, France  /  one month  ($2029) 2014 / solo

Innsbruck, Austria / one week ($511) 2018 / solo

Paris, France  /  one month  ($2118) 2013 / solo

Thun, Switzerland  /  one month ($2124) 2021 / partnered

New York, New York, USA / one month  ($2297)* 2018 / partnered

Zagreb, Croatia / one month splurge! ($2320) 2021 / solo

Opatija, Croatia / one month splurge! ($2897) 2021 / solo(ish)

Cycling across France  /  one month  ($3091) 2015 / solo

My budgets for shorter trips

Now, what about short trips? Weekends, overnights, week-long vacations? I’ve got some real budgets on those too, though they’re fewer and farther between for me. Here are they, from cheapest to most expensive per-day:

Vrbovsko, Croatia / 3 days ($87 / $29 per day) 2021 / solo

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia / 3 days ($184 / $62 per day) 2021 / solo

Denver to LA road trip / 2 days ($207 / $103 per day)* 2012 / solo

Tbilisi, Georgia / 10 days ($1050 / $105 per day)* 2019 / partnered

Colmar, France / 5 days ($539 / $108 per day) 2019 / partnered

Paris, France / 5 days ($663 / $133 per day) 2019 / partnered

Emilia Romagna, Italy / 5 days ($776 / $155 per day) 2014 / solo

Business costs

It’s worth noting that you won’t see any business costs in the above budgets. My business expenses vary greatly based on what I’m working on, how much active marketing/sales I’m doing, and what kind of side projects (blogs, self-published books, etc.) I’m taking on. 

The few consistent things I pay for business-wise include:

Subscriptions for Microsoft Word, Adobe Photoshop, cloud storage, and a media subscription or two.

I now own a cell phone (turns out living full-time in Portugal requires one), but I also need a US number, so I use TextNow on my iPad for US calls/client calls. The basic number is free (because they serve up ads), but I pay a small fee in order to get a few extra benefits. 

Business insurance , which runs me about $50 per month, and a yearly fee (about $100) for my registered agent to handle my LLC renewal and receive any business mail for me.

Once a year or once every few years, I also have expenses for  web hosting and domain renewal  for the website. This usually costs me less than $100 per year.

Taxes:  Finally, a note on the most unavoidable of all expenses – taxes. In general (though not in every case), you are expected to pay taxes in the place you reside. If you live in the US, you pay in the US. If you live in Switzerland, you pay in Switzerland. 

If you’re from the US, you’ll always have to file US taxes even if you’re a resident abroad, but you may be eligible for the  FEIE , which is basically there to prevent you from paying double taxes. (Rather than get into it further here, I’ll suggest you book a consult with a US tax accountant. Many do free first consults and they will know so much more than I do about all the ins and outs of your particular situation.)

NOTE: If you’re paying in the states and self-employed, taxes are due quarterly, not yearly. This means when I’m paying in the States, I sit down every quarter and calculate the taxes I owe and send the government a check. At the end of the year, I hire a tax whiz (which generally runs me another $350 – $500) to help me make sure everything has been paid and filed properly.

Air travel expenses (& other big one-time costs)

There are a few things I don’t budget for monthly (or include in my monthly budget posts) because they are yearly or quarterly expenses and may vary greatly from month to month. One of these things is  plane tickets .

I’m not a traveler who flies a lot, preferring to explore one continent thoroughly at a time and take trains where possible both because it’s simply a more pleasant way to travel, because it’s more environmentally responsible, and because the older I get the worse my motion-sickness gets, so flying has stopped being even a little bit fun.

So, since I’m not buying them monthly or even bi-monthly, I usually don’t track plane ticket costs monthly and instead factor them into my budget on a quarterly or yearly basis. 

In 2021, I took four flights (one-way Switzerland to Croatia, one-way Croatia to Portugal, then round-trip Portugal – Croatia to collect my visa). In 2022, I only took one (one-way from Paris to Porto – I took trains in the other direction). 

Replacing technology (my laptop or tablet), big one-time medical expenses, and other large one-time purchases (like my folding bike) are also something I look at quarterly or annually rather than monthly.

Saving money while traveling full-time

Finally, for me, part of feeling comfortable starting my business and then, a year or so later, leaving to travel full-time was having a decent financial buffer in the bank. I was advised while starting my business to have at least six months worth of expenses in the bank just in case. Being a bit neurotic about money, I waited until I had 10 months and enough clients that I was already almost breaking even.

Similarly, when I started traveling, even though I would be working normally and hopefully earning normally, part of feeling comfortable was the knowledge that I had a buffer. If all my clients ditched me in month one, I could live for a year without income (assuming I lived relatively frugally).

Everyone operates differently on this. When my aunt started her business, she quickly went into debt. Yet she was wildly successful over time. I’ve also heard stories of those who moved to a cheap part of Asia to start their business, which meant the limited funds they had could last them much longer while they got things off the ground. I know one man who told me it’s going to take $150,000 to start his business. Another woman told me a success story that started with just 3,000 euros in the bank. An old roommate told me she’s been traveling and working for years with just a few hundred euros to her name.

My income is variable , but I also try to set aside a decent percentage each month for the future –both to tackle unexpected expenses or emergencies, to be prepared for my yearly tax bills, and, of course, to create more security for myself in case I ever cannot or no longer want to work.

Any expenses you tend to have during travel that I haven’t mentioned? Any questions about travel expenses and budgeting? Toss them in the comments.

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17 comments

This is so cool. Thank you for this.

I’m living in a tiny house on a farm right now, but after my kid graduates high school I – or perhaps both of us – have considered living like this for a while. I’m building up my author/editor business, and it certainly would be nice to get around. I get really restless staying in one spot too long.

Glad you enjoyed it! And good luck!

Idnloke to know more about working abroad

If you are looking for info on my freelance career, here’s the skinny: https://gigigriffis.com/how-i-make-money-while-traveling-the-world-full-time-behind-the-scenes-with-a-location-independent-writer/

If you are looking for info on jobs abroad, I’m sorry to say I don’t have much info on that.

I’m not brave enough to try this with my husband and two kids, but I loved reading about how you do it! Kudos!!

Thanks for sharing your experience! This gives us an idea of how to budget for travel in Europe.

I am really enjoying following your adventures. I am waiting for a Portuguese residency permit and will be dipping my toe in the nomadic water soon. One question I am grappling with – what do you do for health insurance when you are back in the US?

For short trips, I get a temporary travel insurance plan (something like World Nomads even though their paperwork hassles are epic). But I think many European health plans also cover emergencies outside Europe, so might be worth looking into whether your Portuguese insurance will cover you once you’re resident there (I know in Switzerland the insurance we looked at covers US travel).

Amazing post!! Thanks for the detailed breakdowns. So happy to have found your site – it’s SO helpful and informative for slow travelers.

Great post! Thanks for sharing these insights with everyone. I wonder if you might answer a tax question. If one were to travel 1-3 months in each country, does that mean you need to file taxes in each of those countries plus the US?? I get if one were in the same country for over 6mo then that country would probably be considered the country of residence for tax filing purposes but what about when hoping county to county, never staying in any one country longer than 3mo??

Thanks in advance for any insights on my tax question!

Most countries don’t consider you a tax resident until you’ve been there more than 180 days in a year. Most tax accountants will do a free consult if you would like a professional perspective on your specific situation, though!

i’m a new dog owner (about 9 months) and also planning for a 6-month travel sabbatical in about 1.5 years. i’m still debating whether i should take my yoshi with me (he’s a 13 lb chiwienie). I’ve never flown with him before, and I’m wondering if you have any tips and tricks to help ease him into the process? you’re an inspiration!

Thanks! If you haven’t already, I’d read the Luna the traveling pooch section of the blog. https://gigigriffis.com/category/luna/ . There’s tons of stuff in there. The short answer is lots of treats and comfort toys inside the carrier (with the carrier open) in your house to get him used to and feeling safe in the carrier.

Thank you a million times over!

Thanks, Gigi. I needed this. It gives me courage as a single 55 yo American dude. I need some challenge in my life…something to conquer…something that will keep me on my toes. I’ve always suffered from bouts of wanderlust and I’m just plain DONE with corporate health/academic full time work. I did a back-of-the-envelope calculation on my expenses and came out around 2,200/mo traveling mostly in European Union with time in Serbia, Montenegro, B/H, SE Asia, Georgia and Turkey to mitigate the Schengen rules. Any reason you spent so little time in the Balkans? Is it a solo-female traveler thing? Sadly Russia appears off the list. I have spent a fair amount of time there before.

I have savings and a professional license (planning to do consulting over zoom). I plan to work part time (10-12 hours/wk) while honing film photography, reading for pleasure, learning about local history, and making friends. My budget is a bit lighter for accommodations (I don’t mind living in an Airbnb room) and heavier on LOCAL travel. I want to hike and spend time shooting landscapes in the areas I choose. This is a giant question mark in my mind. How to get to these places without a vehicle? I’m a bit reticent about using a scooter and don’t want to spend a fortune on taxi. I’m thinking there might be local bus service that gets me close in many places? Any insights here would be appreciated.

Your style is very much how I view my own journey. Stay in one place 1-2 months to maximize accommodation expenditures, minimize European touristy museums (been there done that—going to 1-2 local gems is my thought), mostly eat at home, and take rail day trips once a month with a night-over. Kudos for avoiding the BIG European cities. That is exactly my plan. I don’ think you could force me to spend time in Paris for more than 3 days, mirroring my aversion to New York, Chicago and LA. Lol.

Once again, thank you for the inspiration! Hit me up on email if you like. If you have any tips on making local friends in the places you traveled, I’m all ears. Stay safe and pleasant travels!

Hey! Glad it’s helpful and good luck!

To your questions:

1) I actually spent quite a lot of time in Croatia (in fact, got a visa for a year after living in Estonia 1.5 years during the whole covid fiasco). The Balkans outside Croatia are a touch trickier because of infrastructure (which goes to your second question, I suppose). There’s less train/bus access, so they are trickier to get to and trickier to get around without a car (and I detest driving). Croatia definitely has better infrastructure than some other spots, though I did enjoy my jaunt into Bosnia and Montenegro.

The other reason is the dog. They tend to be the less dog-friendly options in Europe. I felt fine as a woman traveling solo, but the dog complicates places like Bosnia (which I did spend some time in, despite this) and Albania.

2) The Schengen countries (for the most part, with a few exceptions) have great public transit, so I relied on that. For hiking/wilderness areas, I find that there is transit but it sometimes runs less frequently, so I just had to plan well and sometimes find myself a base very close to the wilderness areas to stay for at least a few days (I did this, for instance, for Bohemian Switzerland in Czechia). Other places (Switzerland, France) often have trails very integrated into every location and/or transit to even the remotest spots.

The places that are a bit more tricky tend to be places on the edges of Europe (the center is very well connected). So I had to get more creative in places like Portugal, Spain, and Estonia, which have somewhat less extensive public transit and more car culture. (Even so, I have never rented a car in any of those places and have relied on everything from infrequent buses to my bicycle to taxis or rideshares.)

Great! Thank you for the insights! I poked around your blog and found solid information on making friends. Funny, having a meal at home with a handful of people is definitely my style. :) I enjoyed many of the images on your blog. Particularly one from Italy with the path going along that turquoise river. Sublime! Excellent information on the hiking trails in different countries and your tip on staying close to trail systems for a handful of days. Lastly, your travels helped me to discover the inclusion of Portugal to the digital nomad parade! That’s particularly exciting to me as my younger brother and fam are planning a permanent move to Portugal (getting tired of Seattle/US health care/foods). Looks like potentially a more lengthy process? What an amazing time to see the world and work from anywhere! New DM visas are also popping up in SE Asia. Cheers!

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Travel Budget Calculator: Your Key to Financial Freedom

In conclusion, the Travel Budget Calculator empowers you to embark on unforgettable journeys without compromising your financial stability. By leveraging its capabilities and implementing savvy budgeting strategies, you’ll unlock a world of possibilities and create cherished memories that last a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure today and let the Travel Budget Calculator be your guiding light.

FAQs About Travel Budget Calculator

Below are some basic questions that arise while using a travel budget calculator.

Q. How does the Travel Budget Calculator work?

A. Calculating a travel budget isn’t rocket science; it’s just simple math. As we know, if we have exact numbers in front of us, decision-making becomes much easier. A Travel Budget Calculator simply provides us with all the expense numbers.

Q. Is the Travel Budget Calculator suitable for all types of travelers?

A. Absolutely! Whether you’re a budget-conscious backpacker, a luxury seeker, or somewhere in between, the Travel Budget Calculator adapts to your preferences and constraints. Simply adjust the parameters to align with your unique travel style and embark on your adventure with confidence.

Q. Can I trust the accuracy of the Travel Budget Calculator?

A. Yes, the Travel Budget Calculator is designed to provide accurate and reliable estimates based on the information provided. However, it’s essential to factor in unforeseen expenses and fluctuations in prices to ensure comprehensive budget planning.

Q. Can I save my budgeting preferences for future use?

A. Unfortunately, the Travel Budget Calculator does not currently offer a save feature but you can download it. However, you can easily recreate your budgeting preferences each time you plan a trip by inputting the relevant details into the calculator.

Q. How frequently should I update my travel budget?

A. It’s advisable to review and update your travel budget regularly, especially as your trip approaches and circumstances change. Factors such as fluctuating exchange rates, last-minute bookings, and unexpected expenses can impact your budget, so staying proactive is key to financial planning success.

You are here

How much money do i need to travel europe.

For some people, setting a budget is just one more exciting thing to do when planning their European holiday. Mainly because it gives them an opportunity to dream about the castles and banquets they’ll be spending their euros on.

Then there are others who dread the whole ordeal – probably the same people who haven’t visited the dentist in a year. 

Knowing things is hard. And who’s got time for calculations?*

Allow me to introduce you to the amazing Holiday Budget robot planner 3000! (Well, it’s not really called that). Planning a budget is hard, it’s not like you just know the cost of a bratwurst and a 1L jug of beer in Munich off the top of your head is it? That’s impressive if you do, but our Holiday Budget Planner actually does know that kind of stuff. Try it out below!

*Ain’t nobody got time for that.

Try our fancy new budget calculator (above) now!

How to plan a trip to Europe with a budget

First up, you need to figure out what you need to budget for.

To work out your rough costs, you’ll need to know:

• Where you’re going – for flight costs.
• How long you’ll be away – for nightly accommodation costs.
• How you want to get around – for transport costs.

It also helps to budget with those you’ll be travelling with, so you can work out what costs are solely yours and what you can share. It’s also a good way to set out what type of holiday you want to have. If you’re a budget traveller who wants to hostel-hop your way through Europe, your budget will be very different to the traveller that wants 5-star, all-inclusive, buffet breakfast, city-view, luxury hotels.

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How much does a Europe trip cost?

Let’s take a look at a few examples of different kinds of holidays you could have in Europe, and address some of those big-ticket costs that need to be budgeted for.

The lovey-dovey couple

This romantic pair is travelling through London for 2 weeks during its beautiful, warm summer. Between them, they’ll need just under $10,000 AUD for flights, accommodation and daily transport. 

The solo backpacker

This lucky vagabond is travelling Solo (not even Chewbacca is invited). They’re hitting up France , Spain , Italy and Greece for a whole month of adventure. Depending on how frugal they decide to be, they’ll need about $4,000AUD for flights, accommodation and public transport. Don’t forget to budget your meals and adventures though!

The fun family

This wonderful family of 2 adults and 2 kids (under age 11) is going on a cruise to visit Barcelona during the school holidays – lucky kids… The parents will need to save around $13,000AUD worth of pennies to afford the flights, cruise and accommodation for this trip. 

Note that these are your core expenses. Other costs from travel insurance, daily expenses like food and drinks, sightseeing, activities and all those shopping trips aren’t taken into account.

Costs of travelling Europe per day

We’ve looked at the big stuff, now let’s get into the intricate expenses.

First of all, a good holiday budget will keep in mind where you can tighten up on expenses – and where you can splurge! Having this type of flexible holiday budget is essential because you never know when an opportunity might come up that you don’t want to miss out on.

For a middle-of-the-road holiday (neither budget nor luxury living) we recommend from:

AU$100 to AU$150 per person, per day.

This will cover sightseeing, food and drinks, shopping and other nitty-gritties.  But of course, there are heaps of ways to cut down on this cost – or add to it – to create your preferred budget.

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Consider your bookings

It helps knowing exactly what’s included in what you’ve booked. Does your hotel include breakfast in the per night cost? If it does, then that’s one less thing you need to budget for. Or does your accommodation have kitchen facilities? That gives you a cheap’n’easy, DIY meal option.

You can also look for other ways to save. Can you purchase a public transport pass, rather than buying single tickets (as usually, this will offer some savings)? Or can you purchase a sightseeing pass that includes entry costs and public transport? If you can, why not go for it and save.

Final words on budgeting

Well, that was probably a lot to take in, so let’s finish up with some easy-peasy dot points.

• It can help to have a pre-agreed cost for things (pre-agreed with yourself, or your travel companions if you’re splitting costs). This avoids arguments, stress and overspending.
• Put time and research into your ‘per day’ budget and include the things you really want to do. Once you know the costs, you have a goal to save for.
• It pays to book things in advance, but sometimes you might be able to find a cheaper price when you are in the country
• Don’t forget to factor in your pre-travel costs (e.g. travel insurance, immunisations and visas).
• Budget for cheap eats some days so you can gorge other days. From enjoying a glass of champagne at the top of the Eiffel Tower to devouring food at Germany’s food stalls.
• Don’t forget those sneaky costs (e.g. transfers, tours and tipping).

If you still need help with setting a holiday budget, our travel money experts have a handy budgeting tool available in any of our 165 stores across Australia and New Zealand.

*Flight costs based on search from www.flightcentre.com.au and are indicative costs only, based on prices available on 10 August 2018. ^Accommodation costs are based on an average per night price for budget , moderate or luxury hotels, as indicated in the table. ~Cruise cost is based on search from www.ncl.com for a 7 night Western Mediterranean cruise onboard Norwegian Epic, departing Barcelona in May 2019, and is an indicative cost only, based on prices available on 10 August 2018. **Rail Pass cost is based on search from http://www.eurail.com and is an indicative cost only. COST COMPARISON TABLE: All costs are based on estimated approximate costs from major metropolitan cities in each country. “From” costs indicate costs that start from the indicated price and may be higher than shown. Average prices indicate a typical estimated cost you would pay for the indicated item. Prices may vary from time to time, and in different cities and towns within each country. Cities included are: London, United Kingdom; Rome, Italy; Paris, France; Berlin, Germany; Barcelona, Spain; Athens, Greece; Budapest, Hungary; Prague, Czech Republic; Amsterdam, The Netherlands. This blog is provided for information only and does not take into consideration your objectives, financial situation or needs.  You should consider whether the information and suggestions contained in any blog entry are appropriate for you, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.  While we take reasonable care in providing the blog, we give no warranties or representations that it is complete or accurate, or is appropriate for you.  We are not liable for any loss caused, whether due to negligence or otherwise, arising from use of, or reliance on, the information and/or suggestions contained in this blog.

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Detailed 3 Months Europe Itinerary + Costs (2024) : The Best of Europe in 3 Months

3 months in europe is a good duration to get to explore the best bits of europe. this 3 month europe itinerary has not just fun and adventurous activities but also tips and tricks to save money and the best places to stay and eat.

Spending 3 months in Europe allows you to delve deeper into the regions that interest you the most, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller.

You can explore the blue-domed Churches in  Santorini , The black sand beach in  Iceland , the architecture in  Seville  or the mountains in  Switzerland . With so many destinations to choose from, the possibilities are limitless.

After spending about 10 years exploring what Europe has to offer, here’s the best tips and tricks to save money on your 3 month Europe itinerary and visit the best places in the continent.

Read along for a complete Europe itinerary 3 months to make the most of your trip to Europe.

If you’re planning your 3 months Europe itinerary at the last minute:

Here’s the top experiences and stays you don’t want to miss on your trip

• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Full-Day Tour
• Lisbon: History, Stories and Lifestyle Walking Tour
• From Amsterdam: Keukenhof Flower Park Trip with Transfer
• Prague: Vltava River Night Cruise with Buffet
• Florence: Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting

Here’s where to stay on your 3 months in Europe itinerary

• London – Fox and Goose hotel
• Venice – Venice Maggior Consiglio
• Amsterdam :   Hotel Nes
• Florence: Soggiorno La Cupola Guesthouse
• Budapest: Callas House

IN THIS GUIDE

A detailed 3 months Europe itinerary

Here’s a comprehensive 3 months Europe itinerary that will take you on an unforgettable journey through some of the continent’s hidden gems, and breath-taking landscapes.

This Europe itinerary 3 months offers a myriad range of experiences that will satisfy even the most discerning traveller, so, grab a cup of coffee and prepare to be inspired by Europe’s magic and wonder.

Month 1 of your Europe itinerary 3 months

Western europe.

Welcome to the first month of your epic 3 month Europe trip!

This 3 months in Europe itinerary will begin in Western Europe, where you will have the opportunity to visit some of the continent’s most iconic and cosmopolitan cities covering the countries UK, France, Spain , Portugal and The Netherlands .

If you’d prefer spending more time here on your 3 months in Europe itinerary consider adding countries like Iceland , Ireland and the other regions of the UK like Scotland and Wales.

London, UK (5 days)

Starting your 90 days in Europe itinerary in London is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, diverse culture, and iconic landmarks.

What to do in London during your 3 months Europe itinerary

A great way to explore London is to take this Big Bus Open-Top Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour , which covers almost all the major spots in the city.

Here are some of the things you could do in London:

Visit the Houses of Parliament , Big Ben and Westminster Abbey

Learn about the Tower of London’s history as a royal palace, prison, and fortress

Take a stroll through St. James’s Park to witness the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

Take this day trip to the charming town of Windsor and its castle, Stonehenge, and the Georgian city of Bath. Adding Bath to your 3 month Europe itinerary is a fab way to get a taste of the countryside in the UK

Attend a performance in London’s famous theatre district, the West End

Explore London’s many museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum, British Museum , the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum

Walk around Covent Garden, checking out the shops, street performers, and cafes

Explore Camden Town’s vibrant neighbourhood and bustling market

Visit the National Theatre or Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre to see a play or musical

Take a ride on the London Eye, a giant observation wheel offering panoramic views of the city

Visit the Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian in the historic Greenwich neighbourhood

A rare find is the Fox and Goose hotel . It has a traditional pub and is close to the Underground and is about 15 to 20 minutes from the major attractions. Couples quite like it for the location and vibes!

You can also extend your trip and take a road trip across north Ireland .

Paris, France (5-7 days)

From London, take a train to Paris , France and spend 1 week out of your 3 month Europe trip itinerary,  exploring the City of Lights.

What to do in Paris during your 3 months Europe itinerary

You can visit the top sites in Paris by booking a  Hop-on Hop-off Discovery Bus Tour . Some of the things to do in Paris are:

Visit the iconic Eiffel Tower and take in the city views from the top.

Take a stroll along the  Seine River  and marvel at the numerous bridges and landmarks, including Notre Dame Cathedral.

See the magnificent Palace of Versailles, a magnificent symbol of France’s royal history. It’s a bit of a trek from the city centre, but worth the trip.

Visit the Luxembourg Gardens, a tranquil haven in the city’s heart or have a picnic in the beautiful Tuileries Gardens.

Explore the world-renowned Louvre Museum and its impressive collection of art and artefacts, which includes the Mona Lisa.

Take a walk through Montmartre’s picturesque streets, which are known for their bohemian vibe and artistic history. You can also book this  Montmartre Cheese, Wine & Pastry Guided Walking Tour  and indulge in some local cuisine, from croissants and pastries.

Enjoy a boat ride along the Canal Saint-Martin to discover the city’s charming waterways and hidden treasures.

See the impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas. at the Musée d’Orsay.

Take  this day trip  to the Palace of Fontainebleau and Vaux-le-Vicomte to see its impressive collection of art and architecture.

Explore the trendy Marais neighbourhood’s many boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.

The People – Paris Belleville IEx Les PiaulesI , is a great budget stay option in Paris. This hostel, located in the Belleville district, offers both dormitory-style and private rooms at an affordable price.

French Riviera ( 5 days) – Nice, Eze etc.

Hop on a train or flight to Nice, France, to spend 5 amazing days from your 3 month Europe trip itinerary, exploring the gorgeous French Riviera.

What to do in the French Riviera during your 3 months in Europe Itinerary

Here are some suggestions on what you can do in the French Riviera:

Discover Nice’s beautiful Old Town, including the Place Rossetti, Cours Saleya, Promenade des Anglais and the magnificent Russian Orthodox Cathedral.

In Nice, see Take the bus or train to nearby Villefranche-sur-Mer, where you can explore the charming old town and waterfront.

Book  this half-day trip  from Nice to the hilltop village of Eze and the tiny principality of Monaco.

Spend a day in Cannes, which is famous for its opulent shopping, and beautiful beaches. Visit the Palais des Festivals, which hosts the Cannes Film Festival.

Take a train to  Antibes , a charming old town with a lovely marina and the famous Picasso Museum.

Visit Saint-Tropez, a glamorous and picturesque seaside resort town known for its beaches and lively nightlife.

Travel by train or bus to Marseille, France’s second-largest city, and explore its vibrant Vieux-Port and the magnificent Notre Dame de la Garde.

Take  this boat tour  to the Calanques National Park, a beautiful coastal area with clear waters and towering cliffs.

Stay at Nice at Locarno , a gorgeous property with free Wi-Fi and a breakfast buffet.

Barcelona, Spain + Montserrat, Sitges (5 days)

Next on this 3 month Europe trip itinerary, book a high-speed  train  to  Barcelona  to experience this vibrant and lively city that is known for its unique architecture, beaches, delicious food, and rich culture.

What to do in Barcelona during your 90 days in Europe Itinerary

Visit Antoni Gaudi’s iconic Sagrada Familia, an unfinished basilica designed by him.

Explore the vibrant  Park Guell  and take in the city’s breath-taking views.

Explore the Gothic Quarter, a charming neighbourhood filled with narrow streets, historic buildings, and cosy cafes.

Stroll down lively  La Rambla  and visit the Boqueria Market for fresh produce and local treats.

Soak up the Mediterranean sun on Barcelona’s sandy beaches, such as Barceloneta or Mar Bella.

Explore the nightlife in the El Raval and Gracia neighbourhoods.

Visit the Picasso Museum to learn about the famous artist’s work.

Book  this day trip  to Montserrat, a beautiful mountain range with a monastery and breath-taking views.

Try some of the local cuisine, including traditional tapas, paella, and the famous Catalan dish, calçots.

A fantastic to explore Barcelona is by booking  this Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour .

Stay at  Praktik Bakery  in the heart of the city. The best bit? Enjoy traditional breads and pastries from the hotel’s bakery, fresh and hot! Also close to most attractions in the city!

Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais – Portugal (5 days)

Next, on your Europe 3 month itinerary you can take a flight to Lisbon, Portugal’s charming capital city, located on the Atlantic coast.

What to do in Lisbon during your 3 month Europe trip itinerary

A great way to explore Lisbon is by booking this  History, Stories and Lifestyle Walking Tour

Explore Alfama’s historic district, which is known for its narrow streets, traditional buildings, and picturesque city views.

Visit the Belem neighbourhood and its famous landmarks, such as the Belem Tower, the Jeronimos Monastery, and the Discoveries Monument.

Tram 28 is a historic tram that runs through some of the city’s most charming neighbourhoods and landmarks.

Visit the Sao Jorge Castle, a historic fortress with beautiful views of the city and the Tagus River.

Take  this day trip  to the nearby town of Sintra, and the beach towns of Cabo da Roca, and  Cascais .

Explore Bairro Alto, a bohemian neighbourhood known for its lively nightlife, charming cafes, and trendy shops.

Visit the Mercado da Ribeira, a historic market that has been converted into a food hall serving traditional and modern Portuguese dishes.

Take a walk along Belem’s waterfront and take in the views of the Tagus River and the 25 de Abril Bridge.

Visit the National Museum of Ancient Art, which has a large collection of Portuguese and European art dating from the 12th to the 19th centuries.

Hotel Alif Avenidas  is a great accommodation. It is located in Lisbon’s historic centre, with private and shared rooms, and a cosy lounge area.

Amsterdam, Netherlands (4 days)

Take a flight to the vibrant city of Amsterdam, your next destination in this  Europe itinerary 3 months.

What to do in Amsterdam during your 3 month trip to Europe itinerary

Apart from delectable Dutch cheese and stroopwafels, Amsterdam has plenty of activities to do, some of them being:

Take a walking tour of the city centre to see major attractions like Dam Square, the Royal Palace, and the A nne Frank House

Visit the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.

Take this  canal cruise  to get a different perspective on the city.

Discover the charming streets, cafes, and boutiques of the Jordaan neighbourhood.

For a tour of the famous beer brand’s brewery, visit the Heineken Experience.

See the famous window displays and learn about the area’s history and culture by visiting the Red Light District.

Explore the Museumplein neighbourhood, which is home to several museums, including the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art.

Visit Zaanse Schans to see the traditional Dutch windmills and learn about the area’s history.

Visit nearby attractions such as the picturesque town of Haarlem or take  this guided tour  to  Keukenhof Gardens , which are well-known for their spring flower displays.

Visit local markets like the Albert Cuyp Market or the Noordermarkt.

Stay at  Hotel Nes  situated in one of the best areas in Amsterdam; a traditional canal house alongside the Amstel River. The restaurants are nearby and the rooms cosy! One of the best places to stay as per guests!

Month 2 of your Europe itinerary 3 months

Central europe.

Prepare for a whirlwind adventure as we embark on the second month of your 3 month trip to Europe, in Central Europe.

This month will be filled with art, culture, history, and delicious cuisine, from the trendy streets of Berlin to the picturesque city of  Prague , from the imperial charm of Vienna to the thermal baths of Budapest. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through Europe’s heart.

Berlin, Germany (5 days)

Hop on a train from Amsterdam to Berlin, the capital city of Germany. You can set aside 5 days in your Europe travel itinerary 3 months to explore Berlin.

What to do in Berlin during your 90 day Europe itinerary

Book this Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour to visit Berlin’s top attractions.

Visit the iconic Brandenburg Gate, Berlin’s symbol and one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.

Explore the historic Reichstag building, which houses the German Parliament, and climb to the top of its glass dome for amazing views of the city.

Learn about the events that occurred at the iconic Checkpoint Charlie, the most famous crossing point between East and West Berlin during the Cold War.

Take a walk down Unter den Linden , one of the city’s most famous boulevards lined with impressive buildings and historical monuments.

Visit the Berlin Wall Memorial and East Side Gallery to learn about the city’s division and the difficulties that East Berliners faced during the Cold War.

Visit Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses five world-class museums displaying ancient artefacts, art, and cultural treasures.

Explore Berlin’s trendy neighbourhoods such as  Prenzlauer Berg and Neukölln,  known for their charming streets, boutiques, and cafes.

Take this boat tour along the Spree River to get a different perspective on Berlin’s history and architecture.

Learn about the history and culture of Jews in Germany by visiting the Jewish Museum, an architectural masterpiece and one of Europe’s largest Jewish museums.

Relax and take in the dazzling views of the city from the top of the Berlin TV Tower, Germany’s tallest structure and a symbol of the city’s skyline.

Stay at Hotel 38 located in the city centre – 100 yards from the Oranienburger Tor Tram Stop, each room is done differently and is in quite a popular area with easy access to transport.

Krakow, Poland (3-4 days)

Next on this Europe itinerary 3 months, you can take a train to Krakow, a Polish city, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural significance.

What to do in Krakow during your three month Europe itinerary

Here are some suggestions on how can you spend our 5 days in Krakow:

Visit the  Wawel Castle, a former residence of Polish kings that is now a museum complex.

Admire colourful buildings and street performers as you walk around the Main Market Square (Rynek Gówny), one of Europe’s largest mediaeval squares.

Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp during WWII. The location is now a museum and a memorial.

Visit St. Mary’s Basilica and listen to the hourly trumpet call from the tower.

Explore Krakow’s historic Jewish quarter, Kazimierz, and see the Old Synagogue, Remuh Synagogue, and Jewish Cemetery.

Enjoy a traditional Polish dinner at one of Kazimierz’s many restaurants.

Explore the  Wieliczka Salt Mine with this tour , a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s oldest salt mines. The mine contains underground chambers, lakes, and salt sculptures.

Take a  guided tour of the Schindler’s Factory Museum  to learn about Oskar Schindler and the Jewish prisoners he saved during WWII.

Visit the various museums in Krakow such as the  Krakow Museum of Contemporary Art or the Polish Aviation Museum or the Krakow Museum of History.

Visit the Tatra Mountains and explore Zakopane, a popular ski resort town with stunning Tatra Mountain views. For panoramic views of the surrounding area, take a cable car up to Kasprowy Wierch.

The Hotel Krupnicza 30  is a top-rated stay option in Krakow. It is located in the old town, 1 mile from the castle and has classy rooms. It is 4 star yet budget friendly!

Prague, Czech Republic (1 week)

Take a scenic train journey from Krakow to spend 1 week in Prague in your 3 month itinerary Europe.

What to do in Prague during your three months in Europe itinerary

There is a lot to  see and do in Prague  also called the  ‘Golden City’, here are some suggestions:

Visit  Prague Castle, one of the world’s largest castle complexes.

Explore St. Vitus Cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture.

Cross the famous Charles Bridge, which is lined with 30 saint statues.

Visit the Old Town Square and see the 600-year-old astronomical clock.

Visit the Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel decorated with human bones, by taking a  day trip to Kutna Hora .

Visit Wenceslas Square, a historically significant location that witnessed many of the city’s pivotal events.

Take a tour of Prague’s Jewish Quarter to learn about the city’s Jewish history.

Visit the National Museum to learn about the Czech Republic’s history and culture.

Take a  river cruise on the Vltava River  to see the city from a new angle.

Take a walking tour of the Lesser Town and enjoy the stunning views from the Petrin Tower.

Enjoy a soothing bath at one of the city’s well-known beer spas.

Explore the nearby Karltejn Castle, one of the most well-known castles in the Czech Republic.

Visit the lovely Konopit Castle, the former home of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria.

Savour traditional  Czech cuisine

Explore the art and architecture of the Municipal House, one of Prague’s most beautiful Art Nouveau structures.

Explore Kampa Island and see David ern’s famous sculptures.

Book your Prague stay at the  Hotel CUBE Prague , located quite close to Charles bridge and other attractions. It has clean rooms and great service with rooms that come with coffee machines. It is also quite budget friendly even in peak season!

Austria (5 days)

Take a 4-hour train journey to explore Vienna and enjoy a glimpse into the opulence of the Habsburg Empire during your 3 months travelling Europe. You can check out this amazing  5-day Austria Itinerary  if you want to explore more

What to do in Vienna during your 3 month Europe itinerary

Visit the famous  Hofburg Palace, a former imperial palace that now houses several museums and the famous Spanish Riding School.

Take  this guided tour  of the  Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens, the former imperial summer residence.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, is a must-see.

Explore the Kunsthistorisches Museum, one of the world’s largest art museums, which houses a significant collection of European art.

Visit the Vienna State Opera, one of the world’s foremost opera houses.

Visit the Belvedere Palace, a stunning Baroque palace that now houses an impressive collection of Austrian art.

Visit the  Naschmarkt , Vienna’s largest outdoor market, which sells a wide range of food, beverages, and other items.

Attend a performance at the renowned Musikverein, which is home to the Vienna Philharmonic and one of the world’s most renowned concert halls.

Book  this day trip  to the nearby Wachau Valley, a scenic region known for its vineyards, castles, and charming towns

Have lunch at the historic  Demel bakery , which is famous for its delectable pastries and desserts.

You can stay at the MEININGER Hotel Wien Downtown Sissi . This hotel in Vienna’s Leopoldstadt district is within walking distance of the city centre and offers modern rooms with free Wi-Fi.

Budapest, Hungary (3-5 days)

Hop on a short train ride from Vienna to explore the ‘Paris of the East’,  Budapest .

What to do in Budapest during your 3 months Europe itinerary

Here are some  things to do in Budapest  during your 90 day Europe itinerary:

Book  this guided city tour  and explore the Buda’s Castle District, Gellért Hil, Heroes’ Square and the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building.

Walk across the Széchenyi Chain Bridge and take in the view of the Danube.

Take in the panoramic views of Budapest from Castle Hill and Fisherman’s Bastion.

Visit the Matthias Church, a lovely neo-Gothic church in the Castle District.

Relax in a famous thermal bath, such as Széchenyi Bath or Gellért Bath.

Visit the Great Market Hall to try Hungarian cuisines such as goulash, chimney cake, and langos and buy local products.

Take  this Danube River cruise  and admire the cityscape from the water.

Visit the House of Terror Museum, which depicts the horrors of Hungary’s fascist and communist regimes.

Visit the Dohány Street Synagogue while strolling through the Jewish Quarter.

Take a stroll down Andrássy Avenue and pay a visit to the  Hungarian State Opera House .

Admire the Vajdahunyad Castle’s eclectic mix of architectural styles and the stunning art nouveau structure of Gresham Palace.

Visit Memento Park, an open-air museum displaying communist-era statues and memorials in Hungary.

Ride the Budapest Eye, a massive Ferris wheel located in Erzsébet Square.

You can book a room at Callas House , located right next to the Opera house, that’s close to most attractions. It is in one of guests’ favourite areas and the rooms are quite spacious!

Month 3 of your Europe Itinerary 3 months

Southern europe.

Welcome to Month 3 of your 90 day Europe itinerary! You’ve already travelled through Central and Western Europe, so it’s time to head to sunny and warm Southern Europe. Prepare to immerse yourself in Mediterranean culture, visit ancient ruins in Greece, indulge in delectable cuisine in Italy. You can also extend your trip to bask in the warm sunshine in Cyprus .

Athens, Greece (3 days)

Athens, the capital city of  Greece , is an ancient city rich in history, culture, and mythology. You can book a flight from Budapest o Athens, which will take around 2 hours. You can also explore  Athens in a day  and save other days for other gorgeous destinations.

What to do in Athens during your 3 months Europe itinerary

Take  a guided tour  of the Acropolis, Parthenon, & Acropolis Museum..

Explore the ancient Agora, a key centre of Athenian life during the classical period.

Visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Greece’s largest temple and one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples, the Temple of Hephaestus.

Explore the historic Plaka district, which is known for its picturesque streets, shops, and restaurants.

Visit the National Archaeological Museum, the Benaki Museum, and the Museum of Cycladic Art

Visit the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896.

Explore the Roman Agora’s ruins, including the Tower of the Winds and the Gate of Athena Archegetis.

Explore the historic neighbourhoods of Psirri and  Anafiotika.

Climb Mount Lycabettus for panoramic views of Athens and its environs.

Visit the stunning Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, which is known for its stunning sunset views.

Book this  Gourmet Food Tour  and explore the bustling Athens Central Market (Varvakios Agora), and enjoy traditional Greek food.

Arethusa Hotel  located next to the Plaka is close to the Metro station and is tastefully decorated. There’s a roof garden with great views and its close to most attractions!

If you’re planning to explore the Greek islands, Santorini is perfect with direct flights from Athens. Mykonos is also a fab option!

Dubrovnik, Croatia (5 days)

Dubrovnik, also known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ is a stunning Croatian coastal city. There are plenty of things you can do in the city during your Europe itinerary 3 months, some of them as follows.

What to do in Dubrovnik during your 3 month Europe itinerary

Walk along Dubrovnik’s city walls, which provide stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town by booking  this guided walking tour  and visit Dubrovnik Cathedral, and Rector’s Palace among other major spots

Take a boat ride to Lokrum, a nearby island with a beautiful botanical garden and a 12th-century Benedictine monastery.

Take the cable car up Mount Srd for sweeping views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding countryside.

Take a sea kayaking tour of the coastline and caves of Dubrovnik.

Explore the exhibition War Photo Limited and the Dubrovnik Maritime Museum

Take a day trip to Ston, a nearby town known for its ancient walls and salt pans.

Relax on Banje Beach, a popular swimming and sunbathing destination.

Explore the Dubrovnik Synagogue, the world’s oldest Sephardic synagogue still in use.

Take  this Game of Thrones-themed tour  to see some of the popular TV show’s filming locations.

Stay at  boutique Villa Dorma , located in a quiet area of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, just a few minutes walk from the city walls and major attractions.

Venice, Italy (3 days)

Next on this 3 month tour of Europe, take a flight to the  ‘Floating City’, Venice and explore its intricate canals, stunning architecture, and rich culture.

What to do in Venice during your 3 month Europe itinerary

Book  this guided tour  of St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace.

Take a gondola ride through Venice’s canals to see the city’s unique waterways.

Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, a modern art museum containing works by Picasso, Pollock, and others.

Go on a  tour of the island of Murano to see the famous  Murano  lass being made and the island of  Burano  to see its colourful houses and enjoy seafood

Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, a stunning Baroque church at the Grand Canal’s entrance.

Explore the Cannaregio neighbourhood’s quiet and picturesque backstreets.

Visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia, an art museum specialising in Venetian Renaissance art.

Spend the evening watching the sunset over the Grand Canal.

Stay at the Venice Maggior Consiglio , located in the Cannaregio neighbourhood, just a 10-minute walk from the Rialto Bridge.

Florence, Italy (5 days)

The last destination on this 3 month Europe travel itinerary  will be the Italian city of  Florence, renowned for its Renaissance art and architecture.

If you wish to extend your trip in Italy, you can refer to this 12 day Italy itinerary .

What to do in Florence during your 3 months Europe itinerary

Book  a guided tour of the Accademia Gallery  to see Michelangelo’s David statue.

Visit the Florence Cathedral, Giotto’s Campanile, and the Baptistery as you walk around Piazza del Duomo.

Explore the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world.

Take a walk across the  Ponte Vecchio , a famous bridge lined with jewellery stores.

Visit Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, which were once home to the powerful Medici family.

Discover the Mercato Centrale, a bustling indoor market filled with vendors selling local food and wine.

Take  this guided tour  of the famous Chianti vineyards for some food and wine tasting.

Visit the Basilica di Santa Croce, the world’s largest Franciscan church and the final resting place of many famous Italians, including  Michelangelo  and Galileo.

Soggiorno La Cupola Guesthouse is a beautiful stay option in Florence, featuring stylish rooms with free Wi-Fi.

Tips for travelling around Europe 3 months

Backpacking Europe 3 months can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but making the most of your trip requires careful planning. Here are some suggestions to help you make the most of your three months in Europe:

Plan a rough Europe itinerary 3 months ahead of time, but be willing to change it as you go.

Pack lightly and wisely, opting for versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched.

Stay in low-cost accommodations such as hostels.

Take public transportation, such as trains, buses, or metros, to get around.

Look into free or low-cost activities such as walking tours or visiting local markets.

For low-cost meals, try local street food or local supermarkets.

Don’t be afraid to meet new people and make new friends.

Stay safe by being aware of your surroundings, avoiding dangerous areas, and keeping your belongings secure

You’ll be prepared for your 3 month trip to Europe if you follow these tips. Enjoy the journey.

Big Bus Open-Top Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour in London

Lisbon: Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais Day Trip

Amsterdam: Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option

Berlin: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Live Commentary

Berlin: 1-Hour City Tour by Boat

Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour

Krakow: Oskar Schindler Factory Guided Tour

From Prague: Kutná Hora and Ossuary Tour

Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour

Vienna: Wachau, Melk Abbey, and Danube Valleys Tour

Budapest: Grand City Tour with Parliament Visit

Budapest: 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise

Athens: Acropolis, Parthenon, & Acropolis Museum Guided Tour

Athens: Gourmet Food Tour

Dubrovnik: Old Town Walking Tour

Dubrovnik: The Ultimate Game of Thrones Tour

Venice Doge’s Palace & St Mark’s Basilica Skip-the-Line Tour

Florence: Skip-the-Line Accademia Guided Tour

• The People – Paris Belleville IEx Les PiaulesI

The Loft Hostel ,

Home Lisbon Hostel

St Christopher’s Inn Berlin Mitte

Bubble Hostel

Hostel EMMA

MEININGER Hotel Wien Downtown Sissi

City Circus Athens

boutique Villa Dorma

With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse cultures, Europe offers a wealth of experiences that are both unique and unforgettable that can only be experienced if you spend 3 months in Europe.

3 month Europe itinerary FAQs

How to travel europe for 3 months.

The best way to Travel within Europe is by train. These are fast and more affordable than flights.

Can I take a 3 month Europe road trip?

Yes, you can take a three-month road trip through Europe, but you must carefully plan your three month Europe itinerary, ensure you have all necessary documents and permits, and budget for fuel, tolls, and parking fees.

What is 3 month Europe trip budget?

The approximate cost of a 3 month vacation in Europe for budget travellers would be €50-€70 per day for lodging, food, and transportation. This would bring the total cost of the trip to between €4,500 and €6,300. It’s also important to consider extra costs like sightseeing activities, travel insurance, and visa fees (if applicable).

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.

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26 Feb How much does it cost to travel Europe? Our three-month costs revealed!

How much does it cost to travel Europe? It’s true that the continent definitely isn’t the cheapest in the world, but here’s the good news: it can be done on a modest budget. We spent three-months road tripping around Europe in late 2017, heading from Amsterdam to Portugal , through Slovenia and Germany to Prague. Here’s how much our Europe trip cost, including a breakdown of transport, food, activity and accommodation prices.

Looking for more travel cost posts? We have detailed spending breakdowns of all our travel adventures here , these are a few of our most-viewed posts, including more about the cost to travel Europe:

Our Eastern European travel costs Spain travel costs Croatia travel costs How much does it cost to travel America? New Zealand travel costs

Europe Accommodation Costs

If you’re looking for the cheapest way to travel Europe, we’d definitely recommend housesitting. We use Trusted Housesitters to find our placements and have had amazing sits in London , Spain and Portugal (you can find out more about how to find great house sits in this post ). For this trip, we found a nine-night housesit in the Algarve looking after dogs and pigs. We stayed in a beautiful converted barn house in the countryside and fell in love with the animals, the sit also saved us a couple of hundred pounds in accommodation.

Aside from housesitting, we found Europe accommodation was cheapest on Airbnb (if you haven’t yet signed up, here’s £25 off your first booking ). We used Airbnb throughout our trip, as cheap hotels in Europe are hard to find, although we did start to wonder about the ethics of using the website , especially when renting apartments. Mostly we rented spare rooms in people’s homes, but when we were staying in Porto and Prague , we rented whole apartments. We generally stayed a little out from the central areas since we had a car and could easily get around most of the time. Less-central rooms tend to cost less.

We had quite a mixed bag when it came to our Europe accommodation costs. We averaged out at £22 per night, with our cheapest stay in Coimbra, Portugal, which cost just £16.47. Our most expensive night was in Halblech, Germany, where we visited the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle  and paid £47.52 per night for a whole apartment.

Food Prices in Europe

Since we mostly stayed in apartments, we were able to keep our food costs pretty low by shopping at supermarkets and cooking our food at home. On travel days we didn’t eat all that healthily, we mostly ate snacks en route and then bread and hummus when we arrived somewhere for the night. Just before the trip, we transitioned to a vegan diet, which we feared might be a problem, but we actually managed to find plenty of options in the supermarkets (Prague was especially good). Here’s a typical grocery haul from Tesco in Prague, which cost £20.

We did eat out a few times on our Europe trip, especially when our families visited us in Prague or we hung out with friends in Porto, also in the few Airbnb stops where we didn’t have a kitchen. As always, we check Tripadvisor to find a decent vegan places to eat out. Here’s a vegan burger from one of our favourite discoveries, Vegan’s Prague, which cost £25 for two meals.

Here are some example meal prices: at Lehka Hlava , Prague, we had their daily menu (starter and main), the cold starter selection and two teas for £17.63. In Namaste Restaurant , Ljubljana, we had a selection of Indian dishes and drinks for £18.38 and in That’s Toast, Bruges, we spent £16.87 on a few slices of toast topped with avocados and other veg along with some drinks. We found food cheapest in Prague, most expensive in Germany and Belgium.

Europe transport costs

We deliberated quite a bit about the best way to travel Europe, should we fly and hire a car, should we use public transport, or should we buy a car and take it with us? Eventually we decided that the best way for us to travel around Europe was in our own car. We bought our car in the UK at the beginning of the summer for £900 (if you’re interested, it’s a 2002 Nissan Almera 1.5L petrol engine) and we used it to get around the UK before we left for mainland Europe. Our insurance policy allowed 90 days of use outside of the UK, so that really determined the length of our trip.

If you want to rent a car in Europe, to give you an idea of costs, we paid just £50 for a four-week rental in Spain back in January 2016 and £25 for a three-day rental in Split, Croatia .

Things like insurance, vehicle tax and fuel will really depend on the car, the way you drive and your car insurance history. Fuel costs varied quite a bit from country to country, Spain was the cheapest at just over £1 per litre, while the Netherlands was the most expensive at closer to £1.30 per litre. We avoided tolls as much as possible, this probably saved us quite a bit of money but cost us more time. Some journeys were twice as long because of this. In Austria, Slovenia and the Czech Republic we had to buy weekly or monthly vignettes so that we could drive on the motorways. Parking wasn’t too expensive and we made good use of Parkopedia to find the cheapest car parks.

We also used a fair bit of public transport when we were staying in big cities. Prague was the cheapest where we got a month’s ticket to use the metro,  trams and buses for about £23.50 per person. Amsterdam was the most expensive since we stayed about 20 mins out of the city in Weesp and had to pay about £7 for a day return per person. When our families visited us in Prague and there were four of us, we used Uber quite a bit, which was pretty inexpensive and much more convenient than walking, taking the bus, tram or metro.

Europe activity costs

Mostly all our sightseeing was free, including hiking and wandering around cities. We took ‘free’ walking tours, where you pay a tip rather than a fixed fee, in Amsterdam, Slovenia and Prague, which we paid between €5-7 each for. Our most expensive activities were Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany (definitely worth the cost) and watching a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Czech National Theatre. *Note that the Lisbon Tourist Card listed below was generously comped to us by Get Your Guide.

Cost to travel Europe – miscellaneous

The only miscellaneous Europe travel costs we had were for some new clothes, as we bought a couple of jumpers and some jeans while we were in Porto.

Total cost to travel Europe for three months

So, can you travel Europe on a budget? The answer’s yes, depending on what you define as budget. We managed to travel around Europe for under £50 per day for two people, which is only £15-20 more than we spent per day in Asia, for instance. We were pleased with all the amazing places we saw and had some incredible experiences, especially at the  excellent Christmas markets.

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How do you think we did? Did we travel around Europe on a budget you could use? Let us know what you think of the cost to travel Europe in the comments below.

13 Comments

Gilda Baxter

Wow…I am impressed with how well you have done. Having the car was a good idea since it has given you more freedom and flexibility. Brian and I like the idea of touring Europe in a motor home. Your food costs were very good indeed, cooking your own meals is best. I love eating out, but it can be expensive. I loved your itinerary and visiting these places during the Autumn has probably also further helped to stay in budget? Great post ?

Andrew Wyatt

Thanks Gilda, you’re right, visiting in the off-season probably helped keep some of our costs down too. I hope you and Brian get to travel around Europe in a motor home, that sounds exciting! 🙂

Did you look into buying a left hand drive car for Europe? We have a three month trip in France, Spain and Portugal planned and are thinking of buying a car in France. Not sure how easy it will be to insure though?

Hi Dan, good question, but no we didn’t even think about it. Since we’re from the UK and Amy’s dad works as a mechanic, he had some good connections and made sure our car was reliable too. It would be interesting to know how the car buying process goes for you in France though. Also I’ve driven a right hand drive car in mainland Europe before so I knew that wouldn’t be a problem for me. Enjoy your trip!

Just to update, it proved impossible to buy a car in France as a non-resident so we bought one off eBay in the UK and drove over instead. So far so good, it looks like we are retracing some of your haunts, going towards Porto from Lisbon on Thursday!

Hi Dan, thanks for the update, glad you managed to sort the car issue. Have fun in Portugal, we loved it and are looking forward to returning again in the autumn!

Neil Dimapilis

this is amazing! Thank you for sharing this with us. appreciate you disclosing this kind of information to us. did you bring bills on your trip or just used a card? i read in one article that you should bring less cash on trips to Europe?

Hi, we just used our overseas bank card, which doesn’t charge a fee for withdrawals abroad.

Can you please share list of cities you covered in 3 months?

Hi, we went to Amsterdam, drove down to Portugal, went to Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve. Then we drove up to Slovenia to Ljubljana, made a stop at Neuschwanstein castle in Germany and then stayed in Prague for a month. On the way back we stopped in Cologne and Bruges.

Barato Travels

Great Post and Stunning Pictures. Your tips were very useful for Europe traveler. Europe is an awesome place for roaming. I love Europe. I read your blog and really happy with your information on Europe traveling. Thanks for such post and please keep it up.

Thanks – glad you found it useful!

I loved you budge5 but as 1 person air bnb untenable I ve found I use dorm in hostel and when really tired tiny hotel. I should be like you and buy and prepare food. I also ho to museums and oay entrances. T3nd to book mini trips as asthmatic so cant hike uphill etc. Think will eventually head back to India as best for budget

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A Little RTW Budget… How Much Does it Cost to Travel the World for a Year? (2024)

Last updated on January 4, 2024 by Shannon

When I left on my first round the world trip, I asked veteran travelers a key question: How much does it cost to travel around the world ?

It was the single biggest factor impacting my trip length and destinations, and the number of things that impact a long-term travel budget are far different than a two-week European vacation.

Estimates varied wildly, and knowing where my own around the world trip would fall in that spectrum was a great unknown. I had no idea how long my travel savings , my freelance income , and travel blogging to would keep me on the road, so over that first year, I tracked every single dollar I spent while traveling.

Since that first around the world travel, I’ve spent more than a decade of traveling, and budgeting for short- and long-term around the world travel is my specialty. My upbringing was modest , yet I was still able to save the money to travel and work remotely for all 15+ years of my world travels.

Table of Contents

Breaking Down the Cost of World Travel

Let’s dive into a very detailed breakdown of what it costs to actually travel around the world for one-year trip —the hard costs associated with around the world travel, and the factors that most dramatically impact your travel budget.

I’ve included some notes on the impact of the Covid pandemic on costs that are likely here to stay—from the dramatic inflation hitting the U.S. and the UK to increased costs at hotels as many of them make permanent their increased sanitation measures.

How Much Does Traveling the World Cost?

Generally, $20,000 is the baseline cost for a trip around the world for one person for one year. This estimation falls in line with popular recommendations that budget travelers can spend an average of $50 a day on the road, and allows additional budget for flights and vaccines.

You’ll spend up to $30,000 for a budget trip that includes fewer hostels, and more upscale accommodation, transport, or food. Traveling as a couple or family does not directly double/triple/ etc the costs because lodging and transport are shared expenses.

As you’ll see in the detailed trip budgets below, world travel costs for mid-range to budget-luxury world travelers can run as much as $50,000—or much more!

My Personal Round the World Trip

On my first RTW trip, I traveled around the world for for 328 days (11 months) through 15 countries and I spent USD $17,985 .

Then I decided to keep traveling. I’ve been on the road since 2008, still “traveling” as of 2024, although from my home base in Barcelona, Spain .

In the years since I originally posted my cost breakdown for world travel, other backpackers have loved the precise and meticulous details of just how much I spent throughout a year of active world travel. And even with rising global food costs a decade later, people still travel on similar budgets —yes, so many elements impact travel costs that you can still travel the world for the same price as a trip 15 years ago (more on how that’s possible later).

Let’s dive into the good stuff. The following tables and charts further outline my around the world trip costs including the country-by-country expenses and budget.

Just want the cold hard costs? Navigate my Google spreadsheet by the countries listed at the bottom of my full World Travel Budget .

My Total Costs to Travel the World for a Year

My final costs of $17,985 for the nearly year of world travel completely include of everything from getting jabbed in the arm for my Yellow Fever vaccine to buying all of my pre-travel gear , my travel insurance , all of my plane flights , bus rides , camel safaris , and surfing lessons , and straight through to my first delicious sub back on home soil when I passed through Philly on my final layover.

What does that number not include?

Some personal choices upped the cost of my round the world trip: an external hard drive for photo storage, a new camera (old one was waterlogged in Australia ), and a rental car splurge in Ireland . My personal total, inclusive of all of that, was just under $19,000 … so it’s still a bargain considering I was on the road for nearly an entire year.

In the above category breakdowns, consider:

• Lodging includes all accommodation; I couchsurfed in a few countries and stayed with friends a couple of times.
• Food includes everything from three meals a day to snacks, and funding for my chocolate obsession.
• Entertainment covers going out on the town, sharing beers with friends—this will be much higher if you drink often. My budget was for drinking on average once a week.
• Activities includes my volunteer program in Nepal, and all tours, trips, and group adventures—everything from diving to ziplining to visiting temples and museums .
• Transportation excludes flights, but covers all intra-country transportation like buses, trains, taxis, and tuk-tuks.
• Misc is a catch-all and a large portion of costs there came from paying for fast internet—it was pricey to make sure I had a strong connection for my work. It also includes shipping things home, gifts, and toiletries along the way.
• Flights includes puddle-jumper little flights between countries in the same region—I did not use a RTW ticket, but instead booked along the way ( here’s why ).

Budget of Daily & Total Costs Per Country

Don’t forget to check out my well-loved Travel Planning Resources .

And consider using the blank, formatted spreadsheet to log your own RTW travel budget (this is a Google Spreadsheet, either save a copy of this to your own Google drive for editing, or download as an excel file!).

How Much Will Your Dream Trip Cost?

Finding a way to travel the world is a mental obstacle as much as a financial one. Every situation is different, but I believe that if you truly prioritize travel, then it’s possible to plan and execute an around the world trip. The problem is, there’s crappy information out there about how to make it happen—just as many bloggers don’t really share straight costs to travel the world. Many bloggers have shared posts with a handful of tips about how much they saved for their dream trip, but they don’t break down how they arrived at that final figure. You may read this information and see my budget, but it leaves you wondering if your own world travels would cost the same.

For that reason, I wrote two entire guides to address your current hurdle. One is about creating a realistic anticipated budget for your trip. The other is about saving for world travel.

How much will your dream trip cost? I wrote this guide to specifically answer the most common question I was emailed by readers: how much will a specific route/itinerary costs.

In it, I share comprehensive and thoroughly practical advice about understanding trip budgets and understanding your own style of travel.

The guide is a full treatise on how to estimate what your dream trip will cost and it includes case studies from other long-term travelers who tracked their trip budgets.

I spent ten years on the road, and nearly that long talking with with other travelers about how they budget for travel. Using the aggregate of their knowledge and experience, I’ve outlined a road-map to taking a long-term trip.

I wrote this guide to empower travelers and travel dreamers anywhere in the world with the tools to plan their trip. The guide breaks down average traveling costs for the world’s most traveled destinations, which you can use with the fully customizable Trip Budget Worksheet to create an accurate anticipated budget for your dream trip. Available on  Kindle, ePub, and PDF .

True wealth is having the freedom to do what you want with your life. Many travel dreamers get waylaid by the financial side of life.

If you’re new to personal finance, or lost about how to start saving for a big goal, this book distills hard-learned information into easily actionable steps specifically targeted at giving travel dreamers tools to become financially literate.

This book provides a thorough deep-dive into the principles of saving money, common obstacles, overcoming debt, and the tenets of strong personal finance. It offers a streamlined process to create substantial changes in your financial life.

If money is your primary obstacle to leaving on a long-term trip, this guide breaks down exactly the shifts you can make to change your financial situation.

Many travelers look at my adventures and experiences these past 12 years that I’ve traveled and they dream of also traveling through the cultures, stories, and conversations. This guide gives you the tools to move the needle from dreaming to doing. Available on Amazon Kindle  or as a PDF bundle with the budget book .

How to Decide on Your Final World Travel Budget?

Travel was my bootcamp for life. My around the world trip was the single best investment in both my personal growth and my career. Throughout life we are presented with a series of choices—each has the ability to help us create the life we dream of living. I am forever glad I chose to travel our beautiful world. ~ Shannon O’Donnell

Creating an accurate anticipated budget for your world tour is an important step—you certainly don’t want to plan for a year but run out of funds in month eight! Each person has different goals, a unique world trip itinerary , and differing travel styles. These factors can create significant differences in the total cost of a round the world trip.

Assess How Much You’ve Saved for World Travel

A round the world trip is not as expensive as you assume. Most anyone reading this post has the ability to save for travel if it’s a true priority. My family is quite poor and I put myself through college with merit-based scholarships. Instead of counting on help from family, I budgeted for the trip, and I traveled with the budget I had—not the one I wish I had.

Before leaving, I purged everything I owned and saved ruthlessly in the countdown months. When calculating if I could afford my trip around the world, I even accounted for my student-loan and medical credit debt repayments (because yes, I was actually in a fair bit of debt ). I took on side-hustles to sock away money. And then I worked on  freelance SEO remotely  for the entire year.

Compared to my life in LA, where $1,200+ went toward rent and bills each month, I used that same online income to travel the world, digging into my small savings for my travel gear and long-haul flights . I wasn’t sure how much my trip would cost when I left to travel, and the information just wasn’t out there like it is now.

Now you can play with your travel route and your travel style and come up with a tally in just a few hours for what your dream trip will cost. In fact, I believe so much that world travel is affordable that I wrote a budget guide and spreadsheet to help you price out your dream trip and have all the possible resources you need at your fingertips.

Decide Your Route & Speed Around the World

This is the single biggest indicator of how much world travel will cost. Slow overland travel lowers costs, and you can minimize the number of flights needed.

To save money, also consider visiting fewer places. Every travel dreamer over-packs their around the world route. You surely have a dream list, but unless you have unlimited funds, then you should scale back the number of regions/countries that you will visit.

When I first planned my trip, a long-term traveler advised me to cut five countries from my itinerary. Looking back now, I can’t even imagine where they would have fit! It’s my route and speed that allowed me to travel for under $20K.

Read: How to Plan an Around the World Itinerary in 8 Steps

Determine the Types of Countries You’ll Visit

If you add in developed countries like Europe, Japan, Australia, and the United States, your daily budget will double. Instead of spending $25 per day in SEA and India, you will average $75 to $100 per day in most developed countries.

For that reason, weight your trip in favor of developing regions of the world. Save Europe or the U.S. for a shorter trip later in life, and add a few off-beat locations to your planned route—these are most often the sleeper-favorites by the end of your RTW trip.

If You’ll Eat Local Food, Street Foods, & Shop in Markets

How you eat on your travels impacts your bottom line. Eat locally from mom and pop restaurants, and sample eats from street food stalls. Contrary to many assumptions from first glance, these locations are perfectly safe so long as you adhere to a few standard food safety practices.

Local food is a window into the culture, so dig deep and eat like the locals, asking the vendors questions and learning more about each country’s food peculiarities. Also, when traveling in Western countries, shop for groceries and prepare your own breakfast at the very least.

Read: How to Eat Street Food Without Getting Sick and buy the Food Traveler’s Handbook  to learn even more about safely enjoying street eats

Factoring Covid and the Pandemic into you Round the World Trip

The fact is, although wealthier and Western countries have moved on from the pandemic, this is not case in all countries. Vaccine iniquities and underdeveloped healthcare systems mean that many countries struggled for years.

If you’re planning world travels, be prepared increased costs to test or meet Covid requirements if another strain were to pop up during your travels. What might this look like:

• Some countries may suddenly re-close to travelers from certain countries.
• Some countries will continue to require proof of vaccination before entering (this may last for years given that proof of vaccination is already required for other illnesses, namely Yellow Fever).
• Travelers may be forced to quarantine, sometimes unexpectedly if you test positive, and this may take place in government-run hotels that cost quite a lot.
• Crossing land borders could be pricier than anticipated—for the three years of Covid, the land border between Belize and Mexico cost ~$225 to cross , and it usually costs about $20.
• Travel insurance companies are now mostly considering Covid endemic , but that can change as official travel warning levels change in your home country. Buy your travel insurance with care.

In short, assess the trip you have planned, and read up on Covid policies. Where you choose to travel should likely remain fluid once you set out so you can adapt on the road.

Note that budgets and guides give clear examples of how travelers can truly spend on average $50 per day on average to travel the world. And using the tips above, you can lower these figures even more, if needed.

You could likely travel with as little as US $12,000 per year if you stick to one region—overland for a year from Mexico to Argentina; or overland through China, Southeast Asia , and India.

The price of a budget trip jumps to US $25,000 to visit many regions rapidly. If you prefer mid-range accommodations, that might increase your expenses by $10,000; same goes if you’re prone to splurging on expensive extras like helicopter rides, diving, and adventure activities.

The bottom line : Understand your route, travel style, and goals before you can develop an accurate anticipated budget for travel.

Recommended Next Steps

It’s easy to see the numbers, be inspired for a bit and then never take action. If you’re actively planning your RTW—fantastic! My site and those of my friends contain every essential resource you need to plan world travel .

If you’re currently working, studying, or just dreaming of traveling, I have resources for you as well. And if you want a second look at those spreadsheets, visit my full RTW budget as a Google Document that will open in your browser.

Or head to the free blank spreadsheet to track your own expenses as you travel around the world . You can save an editable copy of these to your own Google Drive, or download for your own use.

Eight Steps of Planning a World Trip

• Save for Travel & Eliminate Debt
• Build a Realistic Trip Budget
• Plan Your Around the World Trip Itinerary
• Pick the Right Travel Insurance
• Pack for Long-Term World Travel
• Work Remotely While You Travel
• Stay Healthy on the Road
• Browse Free Destination Guides

Resources & Further Research

World travel budgets.

• ALA readers Jesse and Ally sent me their couples budget for a trip that ended in late 2019—they came in at $38.2K for two people for 342 days traveling through everywhere from South America (Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina) to Southeast, South Asia, and even Japan. They didn’t sacrifice on fun RTW trip activities: They hiked Machu Picchu, toured the desert in Morocco, did scuba diving here and there, and more.
• A mid-range couples budget of shared expenses for a year came in just under $20K per person .
• A meticulously detailed couples backpackers budget came in at $36,532 (an even $50 a day).
• A solo male traveler for two years on the road averaged about $20K per year .
• A list of  travel budgets by region of the world .

Books to Read First

• How to Travel the World on $50 a Day .  Published by Penguin and now in its second edition, it shows you how to stick to a budget while you’re traveling. It’s an guide for travelers new to budgeting on the road and weighs heavily toward backpacker-style travel with basic tips and hacks to save money by using travel cards, points, etc.
• A few of my favorite travel books include: The Geography of Bliss , Wild , A Thousand Splendid Suns , The Great Railway Bazaar , and Behind the Beautiful Forevers .
• My two low-cost guides designed for world travelers include How to Save for Travel and How Much Will Your Dream RTW Trip Cost?

On-the-Road Travel Resources

• ALA Travel Guides share comprehensive information on what to know before you go in each new destination. 
• Grassroots Volunteering is ALA’s sister site, offering a database of responsible travel companies and volunteer experiences all over the world, as well as Responsible Travel Guides about how to use travel as a force for good.
• Cost of Living Guides show you how affordable it is might be to live outside your home country. You can sometimes elongate world travels by months or years by stopping in these affordable locations.

Working on the Road

• How to Start a Travel Blog : Record the highs and lows of your once in a lifetime trip. This no-nonsense page details the process and won’t upsell you on any courses you likely don’t need. Just basic facts of how to start your first blog, and maybe even make some money along the way.
• Finding Freelance Work for Digital Nomads . Since money is a huge factor for many travelers, this resource page thoroughly covers remote work—something I’ve been doing since 2005.

I truly believe that world travel is possible for most people. When and how is unique to each person, but by prioritizing and planning travel, you can make an around the world trip possible.

Essential Travel Planning Resources

❗ Yes, you need travel insurance . IMG Global is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids. Here’s why .

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip. Shop my favorite travel gear , including all of the packing essentials for world travel , gear to keep you safe on the road, my favorite travel books , and more.

🛏️ Find great accommodation . Booking.com is essentially the only hotel booking site that I use. It has a wide and affordable selection of traditional hotels, but also hostels and vacation rentals, too. Use these pro tips to find the best travel accommodation .

📍 Navigate more effectively. Rome2Rio is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on RentalCars.com .

✈️ Book affordable flights. Expedia is one of the first places I look for low-cost flights .

☕ Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel , or learn how to move and live abroad .

391 thoughts on “A Little RTW Budget… How Much Does it Cost to Travel the World for a Year? (2024)”

Can you recommend a travel insurance provider?

I recommend IMG Global for most world travelers. Here’s my full rundown .

The best way to experience seamless travel through breathtaking landscapes is Gothenburg to Oslo train route.

Hi there, great article, thanks, very very helpful. I also do these things when travelling on a budget: 1. Try to find the fee-free and low-fee ATMs in a foreign country. 2. Get fee-free cards from home 3. Avoid withdrawing cash from credit cards as the cash advance fee is very high 4. Withdraw maximum amount ATM gives me 5. Book directly with hostels/hotels to avoid extra commissions

Do you offer personal help/training on this?

I don’t see how you can possibly only send that amount on accommodation. That works to only $8.50 a night. You’d have to be staying in some very skanky bed bug ridden dives for that amount.

The you clearly didn’t read everything. I couchsurfed, I had accommodation included in the fee for my volunteer experience in Nepal (so that month is not included in the accommodation line-item), and I also met many travelers early in my travels who hosted me later in my travels when I passed through Europe. Plus, shared dorms are pretty cheap outside of the US, Europe, Australia, Japan, and the like. Guesthouses truly do cost about $15 a night split between two if you travel with someone. Think a bit more creatively rather than trolling and you’ll get there. fwiw, I have never gotten bed bugs in 15+ years, so I’m doing something right, and I’ve met travelers who got them at 5-star resorts, so price isn’t always an indicator of cleanliness my friend, and you’d be wise to note that if you travel in developing countries.

This sounds about right. My partner and I travel half the year every year and I budget (In CAD which I’ll put today’s USD exhange rates for) 2200 CAD/1,650 USD a month for flights and accomodation (I know it’s weird to combine these, but I sold my partner on travelling by telling him that I could make all the flights and hotels add up to the same as our rent in Toronto, Canada and that’s stuck – so the more I spend on a flight, the cheaper I try to find accomodation for that month)

1400 CAD/1050 USD a month for food (a mix of groceries and eating out. Drinks we have with meals count in this category)

800 CAD/600 USD a month for activities (Going out for drinks counts in this category, as does public transit)

Bringing our total to 4400/month or $26,400 for dix months for two people. (3300 USD/month, 19800 USD) So if we did the whole year we’d be close to 39,000 USD.

That said I also usually spend another 500-600 on clothing because I love to shop – but I don’t consider that part of the travel budget.

Believe it or not – I actually spend more when I stay home in Toronto the other half of the year than I do while travelling. Food in Toronto, Canada is really expensive – as is alcohol – as is entertainment. Tho in fairness I do live on a boat on the Toronto Islands, but it works out to costing similar to rent for a two bedroom apartment downtown.

Anyways, thanks for sharing!

Very informative, Thanks for the share.

Came across your blog, I was wondering what current costs were. I travelled for a year in 2015 with about $9k, so today that would be a bit over $11k. I did a mix of hostels, nice hotels (usually thru mistake rates, or points), backpacking (ie camping), and some volunteering for room/board (I think 6 or 7 weeks total). Mix of cheap places like in parts of SEA and also expensive places like Japan, Pacific Islands, or Europe for instance. I didn’t include pre-travel purchases though for gear. Another perspective, anyway!

Great breakdown, thanks!

Thank you for sharing so much of your information! I am just starting to think about our retirement travel, which is still several years off. This information is so wonderful to review for those of us who have a dream of travelling throughout the world and are in the planning stages. I hope you are able to continue to follow your dreams.

Good luck with the planning—this past year has been a bad one for traveling in general, but a great one for planning and dreaming! Best of luck. :)

I have done a RTW twice in the pass, first time 4 months, second time 6 months, now at the ripe old age of nearly 60 years old woman alone I find myself planning on travelling threw South East Asia and beyond for a year or more, thanks for all the great info. It is so exciting to be doing this again, if it was not for my daugther here in UK, I would stay abroad for good, I will be teaching online so that helps with cost, and I always keep £1,000 aside for emergency at home in UK and abroad, you never know what may happen.

Now is the perfect time to start planning a trip, and dreaming about travel when the world reopens. Do you think you’ll do a longer RTW this time? My first one was 11 months, but after that I found the sweet spot was between 6-8 months to maximize the long plane flight over and time exploring on the ground, but still have enough energy and enthusiasm to really enjoy each place. SEA remains one of my favorite places in the world, so I hope you have an incredible time exploring it.

Would u please advise ir suggest 1st time where u went RTW

Wow, absolutely incredible. Thank you for sharing your story, Shannon! Going on a solo-RTW trip has been something I only could dream of, but after reading your posts and other similar posts, i’ve realized this is a realistic goal i can achieve. Super excited to begin planning my South America trip! Let the saving begin!

I am so glad to hear that this resonated! You can absolutely make a RTW trip happen when you’re motivated and able to save. Best of luck and let me know if there ever anything I can do to help once you start planning! :)

Marvelous work!. The blog is brilliantly written and provides all necessary information I really like this awesome post. Thanks for sharing this useful post.  I really enjoyed reading this blog. I like and appreciate your work. Keep up the good work.

Hey Shannon,

I love the blog! I definitely agree with seeing less countries in your first trip and staying longer is a huge one that can save you money. We just did Croatia in a month and tried to see the whole country. We wouldn’t say it was a mistake but definitely realized it’s maybe seeing less places but getting more out of each place!

Love the blog and enjoy your 10th year of being on the road!

Thanks Dom and Jo! So glad you guys also found it true that staying longer in one place can really help your budget’s bottom line! And to be fair to you though, a month is still a lot longer than many people spend exploring Croatia, so I am sure you have some incredible experiences under your belt from being there even that long. Happy travels. :)

These are great travel tips! Whenever we travel, I always make sure that we stick with our budget and one of the best things I’ve learned is not to be so touristy. We try local and live like local. I love these tips. Thank you so much for sharing.

Thank you for this! I’m planning a year-long RTW trip with my husband and two daughters, who will be 9 and 10 when we depart. I know it’ll be life-changing! We’re skipping W. Europe to keep things inexpensive and to see places the children may not easily get to later in life. I’m wondering if, in your research, you came across information or calculated yourself how traveling as a family changes the math? Multiplying your number by four, even when looking at your specific country worksheets, doesn’t seem quite right, so any tips? Your total equals $219/day for a family of four for a year, and I’m not sure how much to reduce that by due to economies of family travel. I saw your Further Research section and will dig deeper there. I appreciate your thoughts, and again, thank you for giving me such a fabulous starting place. So grateful for the details and transparency!

Hi Stephanie! Thanks for you message, that’s a really great question and it doesn’t have an easy answer. It’s definitely not going to be multiplied by 4, because in many cases your accommodation will be doubly more expensive—that’s probably what I would anticipate. Not sure how keen your kids are to share a bed, but in some cases if you are getting places with two double beds, or even just two rooms, it’s likely double the cost. That will fluctuate depending on where you are. Airbnbs are a great idea, but depending on where you are you’ll likely be in guesthouses in rural Loas for example, not renting apartments, and that will average out the perhaps more than double you might pay for a nice 2br Airbnb in Bangkok, for example. But with things like pull out beds/couches in Airbnbs, and that you’ll be saving on breakfast costs when you’re using them, I think double’s a safe bet there.

Lots of places offer a discount for children on public transport (although when my niece was 11 she was much taller and more developed than the similarly Asian children so they gave me a hard time on the kids discount), and things like a taxi would cost the same were it just you and your hubby, or your kids too, so that’s not going to be times four for overland transport. Flights though, of course, are times four!

Big name activities again may offer a kids discount, but it’s not going to be much in the grand scheme—they may get discounts or into a few museums free, but for tours and such it’ll be times four.

Those are some thoughts off the top of my head! Let me know if there is anything else I can do to help as you start planning! :)

That’s amazing information!! With my wife we are planning to travel from January for over a year, we are a little bit concerned about the budget, we think we can together up to $45K AUD not sure if that will be enough. We are planning to use the site TrustedHousesitters as much as possible to save cost of Accomodation and the plan is to start in South Asia, moving to Europe and finally South America but I’m not sure if the money will be enough. Thank you for all the tips and reccomendations, would be possible to see Scott’s link as well? I’m quite interests to see his expenses around 4 different continents. Thanks in advance

Hi Camilo! Congrats on the upcoming trip, January will be here before you know it, and I definitely think that your planned trip is doable on 45K, but you’ll want to play with the amount of time you spend in each region. Longer time spent in Europe will eat into your budget, so make sure you play with your dailies and length of time in places like SEA, so you don’t run out too quickly in the middle in Europe!

Thank you Shannon for the quick replying. We are planning to spend at least 6 months in SEA and squeeze de budget to the maximum to have enough for 3 months in Europe, I know that will be the most expensive part of the trip. Shannon, any recommendations on insurance?

Yes, that’s an important topic and I have a whole post about it here: https://alittleadrift.com/backpacker-travel-insurance-world-nomads/ It gets into when I use World Nomads, and when I’ve gone with IMG since I’ve used them both over the past eleven years!

My wife and I spent $33k for 12 months and kept a very detailed budget. We traveled in 4 continents and through 30+ countries. We have a detailed budget overview and I also built an excel tool that lets you track your own budget.

That’s a great budget. Your spreadsheet looks a lot like my own spreadsheet—including the former color scheme , layout of the final stats page, and more——but all without any attribution or acknowledgement of modification, so I’ve deleted the links to it here. If you’re keen to link to my post and share where you got the inspiration for your own spreadsheet, I am happy to add the links so others can view your trip totals. Glad you had a good trip, but attribution would have been appreciated since it’s evident you know how much work went into it.

Hi Shannon,

Thank you for sharing this information with all. I am quite impress with your traveling costs and need some advise. I am planning a trip to Eastern Europe and Africa, places like: Romania, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, Tunisia, Egypt and more. The current plan is for one year and maybe around 12 countries. Part of the plan is to move from one country to another using ground transportation, sleeping in hostels, buying food at the grocery store, and some activities could include hiking and maybe cooking classes. How much money do you think I need?

Hi Chicho, that’s a good question so I would recommend that you figure out your anticipated fixed costs like flights and visas and travel gear and insurance, and then estimate the daily costs in each of your planned countries. Once you research daily travel costs by country, it will actually help you decide where you should spend more time and less (some countries can cost more than you anticipate, while others might be far more affordable). Play with the numbers and days you’ll spend in each place, then you’ll have a good estimation of how much you’ll need to save!

Thank you for your valuable information! I will do more digging, my budget is not limited and time is open. I have this strong desire to travel because when I was 8 to 9 yrs old I traveled to Iceland, and Europe, visited 7 countries and lived in Spain on the beach in house we rented. Also lived in England and Germany. I long now to travel more then before because finally I can afford to do it. I am 66 and in excellent health. But I know there is no time to waist. Wait advice in planning can you offer? I do not want to waist money. But I want to maximize my enjoyment. I know I want to return to Spain. And my Spanish is now 95% or higher. I might consider renting houses as I travel. Maybe buying? Can you offer me your wisdom tailored to my situation. I am blessed that my dreams are coming into port. And my last days of life I want to broaden even more my appreciation of what I have. Thank you for your answer, ahead I await your attention. Jerry

Hi Gerald! Thanks for reaching out, it sounds like you have a great adventure on the horizon. For planning, I really recommend that you first pick a date and timeline for setting out and leaving—your planning will contract or expand to fit whatever time you give yourself. Then it becomes a question of getting the other things in order—health insurance on the road, your route, etc—all of that is harder than actually buying the ticket and making your dream a concrete reality on the horizon. And to that end, I think you should travel some to Spain, as well as any other places that call to you. It’s definitely easy to rent places for a few months, and that will allow you to start seeing the world and also learning what you want in a new homebase. Spain is a very different place, so come check it out before buying—it sounds like you are ready for a bit more freedom than a house would allow. If you decide on Europe, the long-term/retirement visa will take a bit of time (3 to 6 months or more), but can easily be done when/if you decide you want to settle there. :)

Gerald, I’ve been traveling for the past 3 years as a solo 70-year-old. I sold my house and have never looked back. Considering you are fluent in Spanish, you might think of doing a trip to those countries to our south. I just returned from a 5-month trip through Ecuador, Colombia, and Panama. During those 5 months, I could count on two hands, the number of Americans I met along the way. For some reason, most Americans don’t think of traveling to South America. I speak very little Spanish but thoroughly enjoyed my trip with no problems. It would probably be much easier and more enjoyable for you. All three countries were very interesting and very safe. I never once felt for my safety. Speaking of budgeting, I spent approximately $2,100 per month, which included 13 separate flights. Also, I did look to see what a furnished apartment would cost while in Boquete Panama: $600 bucks will get you a very nice place in the cool tropical highlands.

What an amazing informative article about traveling and budget! Thank you!

It’s a great article. It has everything you need to travel around the if you the budgeted capital. It has a very detailed content including some images and links too. Thank you for posting this article. Happy posting.

It’s a great article, finally some honest data. But girl, please… I don’t want to be that person. But Amsterdam is not a country! It’s a city in the Netherlands. It’s such a shame that tourists think Amsterdam is a country own. There’s so much more to the Netherlands than just Amsterdam.

Hah, you are not the first to point that out, but I’m still going to leave it just like that. The Netherlands is the only country where I visited just one city, so I think it’s disingenuous to say it’s the budget for traveling the Netherlands when I only visited what is likely the most expensive place in the country. And then on the visuals side, it’s just too long to write Netherlands (Amsterdam)—it didn’t fit. So alas, I made a choice that I know frustrates the die-hard geography buffs. Happy travels :)

Good stuff to know. Thank you. Any chance you, or someone you know, has written a book on surviving in countries where you don’t speak the language? I would like to go to China or Brazil but I only know English.

Good question David! And one I know many travelers face. English is the best language to have in a foreign country, because it’s usually the default language of tourism. But, a big exception to that is China, where a large internal tourism industry makes it harder than some places to visit without any language. But there are work-arounds. I traveled through China using an app on my phone to help communicate, and I had essential phrases written down by a local (I am vegetarian, so I always had that on paper.

As for books, one you are absolutely going to want is a wordless, pointing book. This one and this one are good: https://amzn.to/2QqhO9J and https://www.amazon.com/Point-Travellers-Language-Original-Dictionary/dp/3980880273/ – One of these will get you a long ways in both of your planned travel locations (and are better than an app because they will never run out of battery).

Then, download the Google Translate app, which allows you to point your phone camera at text (on a menu or bus station sign) and it will translate the text into English. You can easily buy a SIM card when you arrive and pop it into an unlocked smartphone.

You could also hire a local guide. Even if you don’t use a tour/guide for the entire time, planning an English-language tour (everywhere will have these) will help you acclimate in the first few days. Urban Adventures offers great day tours, as does Context travel and some others. :)

Hope that helps!

Thank you for sharing these travel tips—some I have never read elsewhere. I love traveling too, and I am planning my budget now to figure out how I can travel the world.

Hi my daring thank you so much for your lovely article I read it word from word. I have never done a Euro trip and I was born in Aus. My partner is Serbian born in Croatia and he has a house in Knin (somewhere in the country). We want to go traveling around Europe for 1 year with 30,000 between us. He has a house in Croatia so will save money there. We want to rent a nice car and go around in style on a budget to all countries but the roads are not safe. What is your suggestion and how expensive is the flights between each country?

Hi Jen, thanks for stopping by, sounds like you have an incredible adventure you’re planning. Your budget will surely work, especially if you plan wisely how you spend that 30K (not sure if you are talking Euro or US, but both would work, though certainly more leeway if you are talking Euro). Most of the roads in Western Europe are quite safe to drive, and with the open EU borders it’s a great way to get around. Your budget will allow for $82 a day for the both of you. Although that is on the low side of a budget many would recommend, because you are traveling for longer you can aim for that as an average expense. So in Switzerland your rate will be far higher, but you can easily spend under that daily average in Portugal and Spain. So by watching where you visit and perhaps even doing a vacation rental somewhere for a month or two, you could really maximize your budget and experience a ton. If you are flying (I am really unsure why you said the roads are unsafe?), flights are very cheap… you can do a search on Skyscanner but if booked in advance flights in Europe can be as low as $20-$50 to hop between cities, with a max price usually of 150 one way, and I’ve only paid that when I am booking within a week or two of flying. There are also great train passes and such, which are affordable if you book ahead as well. Hope that helps! :)

absolutely great read! What do you reckon, would 50,000 USD be a good budget for 2ppl for a year around the world? No europe countries Mostly South Asia, souh America and some African & Middle estern Countries thrown in for good measure. We have friends in Aus so we would stay with them for two weeks or so… Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

That’s a pretty good budget in general, especially since it doesn’t include Europe! It’s enough in general, but also depends on how you consider your travel style and the speed once you are on the road. Transport and moving quickly ramps up costs, but if you are taking a slow pace as you go, $50K is definitely in the range of budget+, with some mid-range splurges on accommodation when you are in affordable places like South Asia and such. Africa and the Middle East might not be as cheap as you first think, so do some research on a per-country basis when you start planning your route! :)

In little over a month I will begin my last High school year, and I was thinking about doing a gap year before university and travel across southeast Asia. Which and how many countries would you recommend me visiting?

Hi Emma! What a wonderful opportunity you have ahead of you. With a gap year to fill, your best bet is to head out on the road with a rough idea of how you will start, but then leave the rest up to chance. You will meet so many people on the road as you travel, and within weeks and months you’ll have new friends you may want to join, or you may find a place you love so much you want to stay for a while longer. I have a few resources on the site for planning a route and what to consider. Head here: https://alittleadrift.com/rtw-travel/#planning – for advice on what sort of things you should consider when picking a route. And then this page lists out my own route: https://alittleadrift.com/rtw-travel/round-the-world-travel-route/

I hope that helps! SEA is a wonderful place to start travel—it’s a forgiving place for new travelers and there are heaps of other backpackers and traveling culture to help you get your feet under you. It’s also safe, the foods amazing, and the culture is incredible.

Shannon- Just wanted you to know that you have been an inspiration for me and thanks for sharing all your knowledge with us – it is invaluable! That said, I recently put in my notice at my job and leave May 10th for a year around the world ( which I hope to be able to extend longer :) ) I am so excited! Planning question for you- how far in advance did you plan ? I am in this limbo between not wanting to over plan and would like to keep some spontaneity in my travels but also want to make sure i have safe accommodation as a single girl traveling alone. Another added caveat for me is that I will be traveling with my pup so I have that added concern as the places I stay and the airlines I fly on must accept pets. Thanks in advance!

Thank you so much Steph, it makes my day to know my site has been helpful and inspiring as you plan your travels. I also know how tricky it is to find a balance in the planning. Your situation is trickier than many with the dog going alongside, as there will be some other hurdles depending on the country requirements. I know sometimes places require a standard microchipping, and then proof of entering from a rabies-free country, or things of that nature. I am thinking that you are going a bit slower and sticking to a few regions? Friends have been forced to kennel/quarantine their dogs for up to two weeks when entering some places, so it’s that type of information that you would really need to know far ahead of time. So the balance of over-planning would perhaps be that you extensively research pet requirements for each place on your route. Then, my advice for the rest is that you plan a place to stay your first week, making sure it’s pet friendly, and then figure out the rest as you go. I knew a rough route for my RTW trip, but past that, the actual nitty gritty details of what to see, it’s so much easier to plan those things as you travel. It not only makes it much less stressful in these last months before you leave, but it’s just easier and a lot more fun to ask locals and take advice on the ground. I hope that helps! I am sure you’ve found it, but there is a research portal with information for most countries ( http://www.pettravel.com/passportnew.cfm ) and that should help! Please report back on how it all goes! :)

$3,130.77 for a year of nomad lodging? I’m sure you ‘couch surfed’ a few times and stayed with lots of ‘friends’. ;)

Yes, I definitely did couch-surf some and I had a house-sitting gig in Amsterdam. I also paid for a volunteering program for a month, and the fee included housing (but in the calculations it’s in a different category). But I also chose places where my money went further. My cousin and I spent six weeks in India, where we were splitting the cost of a $12 private room each night. Same in Southeast Asia — I would often share with another backpacker and we could sleep for less than $10 each. When you figure I spent half my time in more affordable countries, it makes a bit more sense!

Hi Shannon, I love the spread sheet and have downloaded a copy for our own RTW trip which starts in 6 weeks! I just wanted to find out how to add more tabs across the bottom without losing the formulas? thank you!

Six weeks! That’s so soon! You can actually right-click the tabs at the bottom and click “Duplicate” – that will add one! Then, depending on how many you add, you will have to adjust the front page that auto-calculates. That’s a bit trickier, so if you add all the countries you need and share your Google Document with me then I can help you make sure it’s calculating correctly!

thank you Shannon :-) yes it’s coming round really quickly! So I’m not great with this technology stuff haha, I’ve added all the countries I need, how do I send this via Google? it’s just saved to my documents at the moment :-)

You can send me an email at [email protected] and attach it there! I will take a look! :)

Laura- I am heading out on an around the world just about the same time as you! I leave May 10th. How about you? Where are you headed?

I cannot tell you how incredibly lucky I feel I am to have found your website! The information you share with all of us is invaluable. I have read all that you have shared on all of the topics you have discussed in this post! I admire you so much! I will be travelling later this year and will want to talk to you.

Thank you Marg! I am so glad that you found it useful! So wonderful that you are traveling soon — don’t hesitate to let me know if I can help with anything. :)

I’ve edited a list resources for finding seasonal jobs – these have helped me get nearly every seasonal job I’ve had. Most of the jobs provide housing which is deducted from your wage. So you don’t need to worry about finding your own place to live, and food is often included as well. If you’re willing to work while you travel, it’s a really excellent way to see the world on a small budget.

http://jacquelineboss.com/2017/12/15/work-in-beautiful-locations-close-to-nature-resources-for-seasonal-jobs/

That’s a great article indeed! A really wise thing to do before going for a trip somewhere is to think over everything twice. Once bitten twice shy, you know. So, think over all the problems you might face up with. Make sure the accommodation you chose for your stay corresponds its actual price. Get in touch with the owner beforehand. Thank you again for this post. I wish next year everyone has a chance to have their own dream trips.

Great article!

After deciding that it was time and purchasing a really inexpensive one-way flight from FLL to Auckland, I have been reading and researching on what my next step should be. I think I have a plan (sort of, maybe, I don’t know AHHH), but would you be able to direct me to articles, boards or anything on what type of meet up opprutunities are out there. I am a 31 year old female and am doing this adventure solo. I don’t mind being solo, but I think it would be great to meet up with people who are also traveling for more then a vacation.

Hi Stephanie, congrats on the decision to just set out and travel! I know that can be such a scary leap. I can definitely help you find ways to meet other solo travelers, although you will definitely and absolutely meet them along the way as well. Especially if you are staying at low-cost and budget accommodation (like hostels) — it’s nearly impossible not to make new friends if you want to find people heading out on day trips and what not. For boards, there are some great FB groups where you could share your route and ask if others are looking to meet up along the way: – https://www.facebook.com/groups/thesolofemaletravelernetwork/ – https://www.facebook.com/groups/solowomen/ – ww.facebook.com/groups/solowomentraveltribe/

Then there are forums and such. Nomadic Matt has a “travel companions” tread in his forums: http://forums.nomadicmatt.com/forum/39-travel-companions/ As does Lonely Planet Thorntree: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntree/categories/sell-swap-meet-up

I hope that helps get you started! :)

Hi Stephanie!

I am also going to do this around the world solo too! and I am 31 this year as well. I am thinking if I dont do now, when would I have the chance to do it? ;p

Is this a book? :D If not, pls make it one!!

Found it, never mind. :D :D xxx

So glad you found it! Don’t hesitate to let me know if you have any questions as you read it. :)

Thank you very much for sharing!!!

I bet you had an amazing experience on that budget as well. It’s so doable at every level. Some people assume it’s hugely expensive, while others assume you have to stay at hostels. Looks like you guys had a wonderful trip without sacrificing comfort!

great and inspirational story and in fact it also provide the best and in depth knowledge about the Cost per day on different countries. Thanks and God bless you :)

So glad you found it helpful!

Hi Shannon, Thank you so much for all the time dedicated to your passion and thank you so much for sharing all of that with us. I will make a big use of your Google template, with my partner we plan to leave our lives here and start our passionate and adventurous journey to the unknown. I like the fact that you are ultra precise on everything, I keep your website as a reference. We have started a website and I will write blogs and articles on our journey, I will not forget to mention and link your pages; it’s just the beginning so if you have other advice and experience with blogging, digital marketing, …. I’ll be happy to take it on board.

Thanks again Shannon for everything, enjoy the ride! Marlene

I am so happy to hear that you plan to use the Google template! It’s still so handy on my own travels. As for the blog, it should be a passion project for you, something you love to build even if you never make money, and it should provide value that you can’t find elsewhere. Either a truly unique perspective on it all, information others aren’t sharing, or a niche that hasn’t yet been done. Find a voice and a story to tell and others will read. I wish you all the best luck! :)

Ma’am. I love all the detail you went into about saving for a RTW trip – something I’ve always wanted to do and am currently in the process of saving up for. I do have a question though (and I apologize for the ignorance – i just can’t seem to get an actual answer for anything). What are the visa requirements for just going on holiday to a different country? Will I be required to get a visa for every country I plan on visiting on this trip? I saw that you got an Indian visa, but no others were listed that I saw. Does it matter how long your there as to where or not you need a visa?

Wow… this has opened up my mind to what is possible… so really I just need to save the initial flights and a bit of a buffer for a month or so… and if I can get money by working online or something… I can then just continue to live in south east Asia or something for far less than where I live now (Australia). Just one question… how do you get the accommodation cheap? Like do you need to rent a place and sign a lease? Doesn’t it cost a lot more to live in a hotels for such a long time? or am I just use to Australian prices…?

So glad that it opened your mind to some more possibilities out there! As for rents, these are much different than the hotels you are thinking about, although even hotels are significantly cheaper than Australian hotel rates. Right now I am on a renting a bungalow for a week on the beaches of southern vietnam, 100 meters from the ocean, for $15 USD per night. Some monthly rents in Hanoi, Chiang Mai, and other places are in the $150-400 range per month. You’ll definitely want to have a read of these two cost of living posts I wrote for Thailand and Mexico: https://alittleadrift.com/cost-of-living-mexico/ and https://alittleadrift.com/living-costs-chiang-mai-thailand/

Wow, thank you so much. I’ll definitely check out these posts!

Hi Shannon! I plan to go on the road next April 2018, so I have one year and a half to save up money. I believe I can save up to 7000 euros (being pessimistic, because I think I could earn more) and I would like to travel for 3 to 6 months. I live in Europe, so I think I wouldn’t travel, and I have 3 plans, so to say: 1) A tour including Letonia, Lithuania, Estonia, Poland, Rumania, Eslovenia, Viena. 2) A tour in Canada 3) A tour in Asia (I’d like to visit China, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodja and Korea). How much do you think I should save to do so? Which tour do you think it’s the most-doable one?

Good question! All of your trip ideas sound incredible. For that €7,000, you will get the most for your money if you stay out of the Western countries. Your money won’t go as far in Canada, but even more than that, Canada is a trip that you may find yourself taking later in life when you have more money, kids, etc. It’s an easy destination to visit. You should look at picking a spot that really excites you and that also matches the adventurous spirit you have right now. My bet is on Southeast Asia since it’s very affordable and also a good spot for a first-time traveler since it’s very safe. Since you live in Europe, it’s dead simple for you to plan another trip in the future for the Baltics and Eastern Europe. I am going to send you a private email with some more thoughts! :)

I’ve heard some people travel for a year in the same continent for under $10,000 USD, South America, Central America, SEA… I hope I get my chance soon!

That is absolutely within the realm of possible if you are limiting the number of flights that you take. Flights are usually the biggest expense, with accommodation next. So if you can limit the flights, and then pick regions of of the world with affordable accommodation (definitely SEA and Central America… South America can be pricier in areas and in the activities). Best of luck plotting and planning those travels!

I just randomly came across this because as you mentioned, you get addicted to long-term travel…lol. I was trying to get some ideas for my 10k I’ll have saved up this year. But, wow! Seriously, 10k RTW is possible, I’m surprised that 5 yrs ago you didn’t think that. I spent 8k last year and went to 25 countries in Europe, Asia (South, Southeast, Central, and East/North), Middle East and Oceania. This year I’d probably concentrate on South America where I’ve not been yet, which should be even cheaper. I did things like a private 12 day tour in Mongolia, spent a month in Japan (usually expensive) etc. It’s definitely possible. I have friends who did this on even less, they hitchhiked and couch surfed most of the time (I only did this a couple times though I did get some accommodation/food free from some volunteer things I did. On the other hand I also stayed in 4-5 star hotels sometimes too.)

Hey Shannon, My name is Claire and I’m currently a junior in high school from Seattle, WA. I’ve have plans to take a gap year or two after graduation to travel throughout Europe. I would like to land in Barcelona, and take the Eurail throughout most of the other countries(Germany, Sweden, England, Czech Republic, Italy, Greece, etc.) I’m aware of the Eurail system, so I will plan on buying a pass. I’m also aware that staying in hostels is probably the cheapest/easiest way to go. The problem is, it’s a very vague plan and I am not very familiar with coordinating plane trips, train rides, hostel stays, etc (Since this is will be my first solo traveling experience). Do you have any suggestions on how to make money while I’m traveling, the steps to take before I go, how to find affordable places to sleep at night (that are close by the Eurail stations), and advice you wish you knew before you started traveling? From your experience, do you think $30,000 is enough to travel with for a year(assuming I also make money along the way)? Thank you so much for your time, Claire.

Hi Claire, thanks for writing. I absolutely think that your gap year is doable and that you can certainly save the funds for that. An entire year in Europe would be hard because of the visa situation, and because it would be very pricey. You can backpack Europe for 90 days on a tourist visa, then you have to leave for 90 days. So with that in mind, you’ll be looking at other places you could work and travel. Have you thought about getting a work visa to a place like Australia? They are fairly easy to obtain straight out of school and many Europeans go there and work (picking fruit or waiting tables) and travel and save the funds that way to continue traveling. There should be good information about that online. I have a work and travel page here if you are keen to find a way to work online: https://alittleadrift.com/how-to-work-and-travel-rtw/

As for planning it all out, that’s the least of your worries. The planning part is more straightforward once you are on the road, but finding ways to work and save now is, perhaps, the most important part of your plan. That work and travel page should give you some ideas. I have a ton of planning resources on the site ( https://alittleadrift.com/rtw-travel/ ), and the working page lists out a lot of other job boards and ideas, from teaching English to finding an online skill. Best of luck! You’ve totally got this. If you dream of travel, then you can make it a reality with focus and determination to save the funds and work toward that goal.

Im guessing this was a while back and prices of things have gone up quite a lot since then. I keep coming back to this page like I did for past 2 or 3 years..keeps me motivated when i’m gonna start mine…Thank You

Hi Mohammad! Suprisingly, it’s still possible to do a RTW trip for that same cost. Somethings have certainly gone up, but others have gone down. So it’s gotten significantly cheaper to travel in Australia, and I would save several hundred dollars a month if I was backpacking there now compared to being there in 2008 with the Aussie dollar was a much stronger global currency. Gas is also cheaper, meaning flights have gone down. So the cost of food in Thailand is about 50 cents more a meal, but that has been counteracted by other changes too. Take a look at this woman, she spent the same figure for a RTW in 2015 .

Good article, Thanks!

I love your honesty! This is going to help so many travellers. I can’t say I kept my totals to the penny, though, but maybe to the nearest pound.

To the nearest pound is still pretty fantastic. So many people dream of a trip and are surprised when they see the real costs broken down for them.

My business partners required DS-82 several days ago and used a website with lots of sample forms . If people require DS-82 too , here’s https://goo.gl/LqB8da .

Hi Shannon, I’m just starting grade nine, but I have a passion for travel and I’d love to do a solo RTW yearlong trip after going to university. My dream would be to leave right after finishing all my schooling, but I’m not sure if I’ll have enough of a travel fund by then. I’m very roughly planning on 2 months in Central and South America, 2 months in Africa, 4-5 months in the southeastern half of Asia (all the way from India to Thailand and up to China), 1 month in Australia/New Zealand, and 2-3 months in Europe. I’d be departing from and returning to Canada. I’d probably stay in hostels and guest houses most of the time, maybe couch surf in more expensive regions. I’m definitely considering working online while on the road, but I’d like a minimum of $15k before I go. Do you think it’s possible to save $15-20k in 4 years of high school plus 4 years of university? Or would you recommend finding a full time job for a couple years before the trip? Thanks, Kathryn

Hi Kathryn, it is so nice to receive your comment! I have no doubt that you can make it happen with that much time and since you are clearly planning now. Since I doubt you can formally work, I suggest you save a portion of your babysitting money or any work you can do in the summers — enjoy some of it but get a savings account and set aside a portion. Then, once you can work, if you spend your summers really working hard, then you can easily reach the 20K in the next eight years. It’s even easier if you have help by living with your parents or family in the summer, then you are saving costs on accommodation while you work between college years. I know that the summer after I graduated high school, I had a job waiting tables and I managed to save nearly all of that money ($4K). I used it to buy a car, but if you put even a portion away each summer, you will surely reach your goals. I encourage you to talk to your parents now, ask for their help in getting a savings account set up, and ask for them to help you prioritize your savings. It can be easy to spend money on the little things, especially with so many activities in high school that require expenses, so with their help you can perhaps really focus on saving a healthy portion of anything you earn. I definitely think you can make it happen with savings ready for when you graduate! Keep me posted, and don’t hesitate to email me if I can ever help as you are saving and dreaming and planning. :)

Thanks for the advice! I’ll definitely consult my parents to set up a savings account for travel, and although you’re right that I can’t apply for a traditional job yet, I have a semi regular pay cleaning my grandparents house for them. Not too many babysitting jobs, since I live outside of a small town, but there are a few. I’m planning to apply for a part time job as soon as I can. Thanks so much for the positivity and support, and I’ll make sure to keep you posted! :D

Hey Shannon, so after looking at lots of RTW travel blogs and seeing how much Europe can raise the cost, and realizing just how much time I want to spend there, I think I might save that continent for a trip of its own farther down the road. The time I would’ve spent there will be spread throughout the other parts of the trip. How significantly would skipping Europe lower the total cost? Do you think $15k USD would be enough for the whole trip?

I think that is a great figure and plan. Europe will be there and surely you will make it back there in the future. 15K will go a long way toward backpacking all over. I am going to send you an email in a few days to something that I wrote — I think it will help you better play with the figures and potential budget!

Alright, thank you so much for your help! I’ll be patiently waiting. ????

Hi! Im just starting 10th grade, and i also dream of traveling the world!….just like you Im going to try solo backpacking. Maybe ill try for a year or two Im not sure right now…and since im homeschooled i have time have a job so i can save up money to go. Im trying to go as soon as I turn 18 and school finishes which is roughly in another 2 years… Im trying to save up at least $30-40k in the next two years and even though it sounds like a long shot I truly believe its possible. Im going to Greece and Italy next year as part of my school trip and so ill get to see what it would be like to travel alone. I have this huge map on my wall and Im trying to plan out where in the world i want to go. Making a travel route of sorts. Pinterest helps alot! I was thinking of renting an apartment (cheap) so I can just travel through out Europe and always have somewhere to come back too… Do you think its a good idea? i dunno… I have some money put away so I don’t necessarily have to save up but it would be great to challenge myself and get some experience in working. I want to work and travel in bars, restaurants, cafes, teaching etc… would i need a special visa for that or something? Do think i should go to college first? All in all my end game is to find a place in the world i truly love and live there forever! After that ill go to university and get a degree in nursing!

Thanks for writing! So sorry for the delay in getting back to you. I love that you are heading out on a solo trip. It’s wonderful that you are able to work now and save up the funds. As far as getting an apartment, that can definitely help save on costs in some parts of the world, but there are other considerations about getting a visa and such. In Europe, you can’t stay for longer than 90 days. Plus, it’s pretty pricey. Perhaps look into budget backpacking through Europe — you will meet a lot of others at the hostel. Then you could rent a place in Thailand, Mexico, or somewhere very budget that has a lot to explore.

And yes, working is a whole other thing. There are times that you can find under-the-table work waiting tables or you can often work in a hostel and earn your bed (this is very common). It’s best to save up the majority of the funds that you will need, and not count on finding work. That said, look at the work-visa for Australia — it’s very popular and you qualify for that one-year visa until you’re in your late 30s. This is hugely popular and lots of backpackers work the farms picking fruit and waiting tables in Oz, and then backpacking this region ( https://www.gooverseas.com/blog/americans-guide-working-holiday-visas ).

Lastly, it’s a tough call on going to college. I am very glad that I had my degree when I left long-term, it has allowed me to earn more money and stay on the road longer because I have a degree. It really depends on your situation. You could always backpack in huge chunks every summer throughout college and then go on a longer one- or two-year adventure. There is no wrong decision, and it comes down to your goals. There are travel nursing programs that could be an incredible fit for you, I recommend that you google these organizations that send nurses for several months to spots all over the world. I’ve met a few on the road and they seem like they have found a good dynamic to work-life-travel. (My friend Candy has a great blog about it: http://www.thegypsynurse.com ). Best of luck! Keep me posted if I can help with anything. :)

Hi I am chandan planning for a backpacker trip of 20 days in may/June 2017 please help which countries should I visit. I am planning to visit whole world on continent basis say one continent or two in a year. Would like to start with Europe. Since I am from India will need help on 1. Which country to start and end. Visa requirements.trip cost with minimum air travel. I like to feel the place I visit. And best places to stay.

Hi Chandan! So exciting that you have a good trip coming up. Europe is wonderful and will make for a fun way to start your years of exploring. As for starting and ending points, hub cities are the best. I recommend that you use Skyscanner to look for open-ended routes from the airport you will leave from and then you can just type in “europe.” This will allow you to find good rates into cities you might not have considered that have easy routes to and from India. Then look into Eurorail passes, the Global pass may be the best bet for the maximum way to move around and explore a lot of the countries on offer. Best of luck! It’s such a culturally rich area of the world to be exploring. :)

Hi just update me on the best and cheapest season. Which countries have good landscapes. I love them. Considering 20 days trip which countries do u think I should opt. BTW thanks for immediate reply and such an informative post.

I think you should look up the weather information for the countries you’d like to visit and you can chart a course through them in the right time of year for your ideal climate. There are warm parts of Europe even in the winter, or you could go north and ski. Up to you and will depend on what you are looking for! That type of information is not something I specialize in, but once you are planning the trip, I have a lot of gear resources and the such here: https://alittleadrift.com/rtw-travel/

Best of luck!

Thanks again..things are more clear now

Hey Shannon, your story was amazing and inspired me to travel for about 3 months… Would $12,000 suffice? ????

Hi Amanda! $12K is a good sum! It will surely get you three months of travel at almost any travel style too. Even if you have a mid-range budget, that will last more than three months in developing countries. If you are backpacking Europe, then it’s a good sum to really enjoy and have tasty food and nice lodging the entire time. :)

Thank you so much! I also started following you on FB, your page is amazing!! ????????. Also I was wondering how far $12K would take me in SEAsia (Time Wise)? ????

Well, if you are willing to travel as a budget traveler, then you could backpack around Southeast Asia for about $1,200. That is staying a low-cost guesthouses or hostels, and going with the backpacker vibe. If you decide to stop in one spot for a month or two, it can be much cheaper. You can temporarily “live” in Chiang Mai or Bangkok for as little as $600-$800 for a month. If you plan to stay in nicer places, it will just cost a bit more each month. The $1,200 is a guestimate though because it really depends on the countries you choose. Vietnam is very, very cheap to backpack, and you will spend less than that for a month backpacking there, but Myanmar can be pricier. I think $1,200 is a good backpacker average estimate if you are in SEA for 8 months or so. :)

Hi! Happy to see that your still responding on this blog post. I plan to pick up my things and just go very shortly. I currently travel on short trips every month in the US but I still crave more. There is just something about meeting new people, experiencing new things and just seeing the world that draws me in. I really think just finally deciding to go and experience such a once in a lifetime opportunity is what my soul needs.

The only problem is I literally have NO idea where to start. I read blog post after blog post but still can’t find a starting point, nor a travel path that will be the most cost efficient. I do have about $20k saved up so thats not the problem its just determining my path that continues to pull me back. Any help on what to do when in this situation?

Also, was wondering if you are still traveling? If so, where about may you be now? Do you expend your trips a bit longer then a month now a days. ?

Thank you for any help, Bianca

Hi Bianca! You have definitely reached the hardest step, which is saving up the funds. In terms of actually traveling and setting out, there are so many various options. There are a few key ideas that can help stretch a travel budget. If you stick to one region of the world, especially affordable areas of the world, then those funds can stretch to 18 months or even longer. You could slowly backpack around Asia for a very long time on a budget like that. Or even start in Central America and then head south until you reach the end of South America. This style of travel allows you to cut down on expensive plane flights, while also exploring neat cultures and countries, and also giving you the flexibility to stop for a few months in a spot if you end up loving it. All of these things would stretch the budget a good deal. I suggest that you start looking at what other travelers have spent in the countries that you are interested in. There are two levels — traveling daily rates accounts for things like touring and getting between cities. But cost of living breakdowns that some digital nomads post ( https://alittleadrift.com/cost-of-living/ ) will give you a good idea of what it will cost to go very slowly. I will send you an email with a few more ideas. As for me, I am currently in England, I was in Spain house sitting for two months, and now I am going to head to Australia for two months to visit a friend there. I go much slower now than I did on that first RTW trip.

Thanks so much for your quick reply ! I will respond more in email !

Does that 20k (ish) include air fare?

Yes indeed. $3,500 of that is flights. I didn’t book a RTW ticket, I booked as I traveled and it totaled out to just a portion of the total. If i had done fewer long-haul flights jumping continents it would have been lower on the flight expenses.

I used this post while planning my RTW trip! Thank you so much for your advice!

So can you just get a year off work like that or did you just leave your job

I wasn’t able to do either of those. I actually worked my online job while I traveled. I had the nearly fulltime work before I decided to travel, so I worked out a budget and figured out that I could travel on the money I made online. I explain that all a bit more here: https://alittleadrift.com/2012/06/how-to-travel-and-work-abroad/ and this page has some freelance ideas for how to build up an online income, which can help offset the costs of traveling: https://alittleadrift.com/how-to-work-and-travel-rtw/

I am so jealous of you.

Aloha! I read your article a few years ago and I’m re-reading it again. We seem to have inadvertently used your article as a blue print for our careers. Becoming care takers has afforded us with a nice way to travel and submerse ourselves in a local culture. Kudos to this articles longevity and relevance today. BTW – You were way ahead of the AirBnB curve!

Well it makes my day to hear you say that you found it relevant both a few years ago, and now too! And I am so happy to hear that you are traveling and immersing and cultures and on a life path you love. Happy travels! :)

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How to budget for a trip around the world

Dec 11, 2019 • 5 min read

Bundling visas is one way you can shave your long-term travel budget © maybefalse / Getty Images

In Around the World in 80 Days , Phileas Fogg bets his friends at London ’s posh Reform Club that he can circumnavigate the globe in under three months. His fictional expenses were £20,000, and for nearly a century and a half, that number somehow stuck as the price for seeing the world. 

Despite the fact that author Jules Verne actually budgeted the equivalent of £2,242,900 in today’s money, some experienced world travelers will still tell you that $20,000USD is the baseline cost for a single person on a year-long around-the-world adventure. While that comes out to just under $55 per day, other globetrotters will insist that you’ll need at least $100 or more per day to travel comfortably. 

So how do you figure out what figure is right for you?

My husband and I spent 12 months visiting over 100 countries on all seven continents, and our day-to-day budget covered a huge range of expenditures. 

In Southeast Asia , it was easy to travel like royalty for next to nothing. Comfortable hotel stays that included a lavish breakfast for two could be found for around $30 a night. Huge bowls of savory dumplings were just $2 apiece, and centuries-old temples and gardens could be toured for as little as $1 a ticket. 

Related:   Safari without the big bucks

Eastern Europe was equally affordable, with bed-and-breakfast accommodations for under $30 a night, rental cars with unlimited mileage for just $17 a day, country-to-country bus passes for $19 or less, and a number of ancient castles and cathedrals open to the public for free. 

At the other end of the spending spectrum, our daily budget flared to $820 per person for an 11-day expedition to Antarctica . The cruise included three extravagant meals a day, a private cabin with a large ocean-view window and en suite bathroom, and all transportation and excursions. But for $18,000, shouldn’t it be all-inclusive? 

There are limitless ways to see the world, from holing up in luxury hotels to surfing couches, so before you can begin crunching numbers, you need to make some decisions. Here are the top questions to ask as you start to create your around-the-world budget.

Are you planning the trip yourself?

My husband loves trip planning. It is arguably his favorite hobby, aside from the travel itself. He will pore over flight schedules, train timetables and bus routes while keeping endless spreadsheets of costs and combinations and codes.

We typically travel in one direction (either moving continually eastward or westward) and book only one-way flights. It keeps us from wasting time and money by retracing our steps, but this kind of detailed planning is not for the faint of heart. It took him a year and a half to plan our around-the-world adventure.

Related:   Six smartphone apps for budget travel

Ready-made trips 

If a package deal is more your style, then you’ll find plenty of ready-made options. Several cruise lines will sail you to half a dozen countries in a month starting around $7,000, or you can spend half a year at sea and visit three dozen countries or more for upwards of $65,000 per person. We’re talking interior cabins without all the bells and whistles, but all you have to do is show up.

Prefer the air over the sea? You can regularly find cheap flights with long layovers in two or three cities for around $1,500 round trip. For example, one recently multi-airline itinerary on offer featured travel from London to San Francisco , Honolulu , Samoa , Fiji , New Zealand , Sydney , Singapore and Athens before returning to the UK five weeks later, all for $1253 (£950). 

How fancy are you feeling?

The level of luxury you expect from your around-the-world experience has a direct effect on your bottom line. Do you imagine yourself in glittering cities like Paris , Rome , Dubai , Singapore, Sydney, Los Angeles and New York ? Better bring the big bucks, even for a long weekend. Are countries like Thailand , Cambodia , Morocco , Portugal , Bulgaria , Romania , Colombia and Peru more your style? You could travel for several weeks on the same budget.

Once you’ve narrowed down potential destinations, take a look at places you can visit without paying for a visa. Many countries have reciprocal relationships that allow visitors holding certain passports to enter for free. You can also find regional deals that bundle countries, like the European Schengen Visa or the KAZA UniVisa that offers discounts to travelers visiting both Zambia and Zimbabwe . Don’t forget about required vaccinations for some destinations, too, since they can be pricey and often aren’t covered by regular health insurance. 

Destinations definitely makes a difference, but so do your day-to-day choices. Are you willing to take a bus instead of a taxi? Stay at a hostel rather than a hotel? Sip a soda in lieu of champagne? Our travel research includes typical costs for transportation and accommodation, but we also consider how much daily expenses like food and drink will be. 

Cost of living calculators like Numbeo give useful benchmarks for things such as taxi fares, groceries and gasoline, and you can see prices in both the local currency and your own currency, which helps you learn the conversion rates, too.

Can you save money along the way?

Establishing a travel budget ahead of time is important, but once you leave home, it’s easy to ignore the numbers and convince yourself that you only live once. That’s why we sneak in some money-saving tactics along the way that help us keep things in balance. 

Many travelers like to play it safe by buying bottled water, but all those dollars (and all that plastic) add up. We carry a lightweight, reusable water bottle and an ultraviolet light purifying pen wherever we go, which saved us over $1,000 on our year-long trip and kept our stomachs settled on all seven continents.

We will also go to great lengths to avoid checking bags and paying those extra fees on planes and trains. Traveling with only carry-on luggage shaved nearly $3,000 off our expenses and ensured we never missed a connection while waiting at the baggage carousel. 

Related:   Under-the-radar budget activities from around the world

The bottom line

There is no one-size-fits-all number for an around-the-world adventure. Your budget on the road is as personal as your budget at home. But you can approach it one of two ways: either begin with the destination in mind and plan accordingly, or start with your budget and see how far it will take you. 

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3 Months in South America Budget! How Much I Spent!

Categories Cost of Travel , South America

I spent just over 3 months in South America a few years ago. When I booked the trip I really wasn’t too sure how much money I would need to budget for 3 months in South America but I knew I wanted to go so I booked a ticket and hoped it wouldn’t be too expensive.

I visited 6 countries in South America in 3 months  and as it turns out, the way I booked my trip meant I started with the most expensive countries – Brazil, Argentina & Chile and ended with the cheaper countries – Bolivia, Peru & Ecuador which worked out pretty well and less stressful than the other way round.

3 Months in South America Budget

I was on a budget in South America and travelled South America as a backpacker on a budget but I tried to not miss out on too many South America activities because as I quickly realised these are the best things to do in South America and if you say no to expensive day tours, you miss out on a lot.

But I’ll explain that more below in my 3 months in South America budget post!

How to Travel South America on a Budget ?

I always stayed in hostels in a shared dorm which South America as plenty of.

I did most of the day trips available because if you don’t do them, often there is no point in going to the town, village or city you travelled to.

I didn’t spend much money on alcohol as alcohol isn’t that cheap in South America.

On average, breakfast was included in the hostel rate, I would eat lunch out and then cook dinner in the hostel from the food I brought in the markets and supermarket, I also did this for snacks. Buying food at the local markets was cheap and a great experience.

I didn’t spend much money on buying clothes or souvenirs in 3 months in South America.

I didn’t take any flights apart from to get there and leave. I took all buses to get around ranging from 4 hours to 10 hours to 22 hours which also ranged dramatically in cost between the countries!

South America Budget Per Country

Here is a break down of how much I spent in each country in South America, along with how long I was there for:

Note – this was a few years ago so expect costs to have gone up!

Days Spent: 9 Money Spent: £478

Days Spent: 11 Money Spent: £415

Days Spent: 10 Money Spent: £400

Days Spent: 12 Money Spent: £389 including £126 on the 3 day Salt Flats trip.

Days Spent: 21 Money Spent: £670

Days Spent: 21 Money Spent: £555 including £149 on the 4 day Amazon trip

Here’s my 3 week Ecuador itinerary !

Days Spent: 6 Money Spent: £130

My friend Danielle from the travel blog Escaping Essex visited South America for 3 months more recently than me on a ‘flashpackers’ budget. For more up to date costs and a great 3 month in South America itinerary, make sure you check out her posts:

• A Flashpacker’s budget for 3 months in South America
• 3 Month South America Itinerary

My flights from Birmingham UK > Rio Brazil and Lima Peru > Birmingham UK were £750 with Lufthansa. Have a look at Skyscanner to see what deal you can get!

As I mentioned, the countries definitely got cheaper as I went along.

I think the main thing that affected how much I spent were the prices of the buses – in Brazil, Argentina and Chile they were very expensive, whereas in Bolivia and Peru they were perry reasonable for the distance travelled and in Ecuador they were very cheap- $1USD per hour!

Day trips were another thing that I hadn’t thought about, in most places a day trip is involved in order to see the full area and its attractions and you can’t really go all the way to South America and not do them !

Some of the day trips I did and would recommend are

• Rio City Tour
• Iguazu Falls in Brazi l & Argentina
• Wine Tour in Mendoza, Argentina
• Moon valley and geysers in North Chile
• Salt Flats tour in Bolivia
• Biking Death Road in La Paz, Bolivia
• Floating islands on Lake Copacabana, Peru
• Sandboarding in Huacachina Desert, Peru
• Machu Picchu
• Pastoruri Glacier Tour in Peru
• Multi-Day Amazon Tour

Overall I loved South America and the money I spent in South America was totally worth it! I hope this helps you plan your South America budget and work out South America prices!

• Related Post:
• Places you MUST visit in South America as a Backpacker!
• 18 Backpacking Essentials To Pack That Will Save You Space, Time & Money!

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Friday 3rd of March 2023

What months did you travel during your 3 month stint?

I'm planning travelling to South America for the same duration but hear that from April/May - August/September it's wet season in that region so was thinking doing it between December - February (I just don't want to miss out on days in case there's heavy rainfall/monsoons and being stuck inside all day).

TheWanderingQuinn

Monday 13th of March 2023

Hello, I went from January to March which was a great time to go! :)

Friday 1st of May 2015

I'm currently planning my trip around the world and I have to say that places like Brazil and Argentina are off my list at the moment, due to the high cost. :/

Saturday 2nd of May 2015

It's a shame that this is the case but yes they are SO much more expensive than a lot of countries and what I found is I went but couldn't even do much there because of the prices so better off visiting other countries and seeing more I think!Hopefully this post helped you to decide :)

Friday 24th of April 2015

This is such an informative post and really useful! It's good to know how much things cost and especially the more expensive countries.

Glad you liked it. This is the sort of thing I was trying to find when working out how much the trip would cost me so I thought I should then put my spendings out where onto the World Wide Web lol :)

How Much Money Do I Need to Travel America for 3 Months?

The US is a huge place, really immense – like can spend a lifetime traveling it and still not see it all. Maybe you’re a nature lover and want to see the national parks – I highly recommend Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks by the way. Maybe you’re a city dweller and want to try the best food and attractions. Or maybe you want to travel the coasts and beaches during the summer. If you have three months on your passport, and you want to see as much of the US as possible, you should be aware of what’s cheap and what’s not in America right now. That way you’ll know how much money you’ll need.

How Much Money for Food in the USA for 3 Months?

Almost anywhere in the world, you would save money by cooking at home and buying at markets and groceries. That’s not always the case in the US. For example, a week’s worth of groceries that include healthy servings of fruits and vegetables for two people might cost up to $200 (depending on the grocer chain you visit), whereas it’s easy for two people to eat at a restaurant for $20 or less including tip. This really ranges depending on if you are in rural America or in an expensive USA city like San Francisco or New York . Breakfast, brunch, and lunch are the particularly inexpensive meals to eat out, and if you like the food served at a lot of the major sit-down restaurant chains, you could definitely get by on the same price (expect good food options but not a lot of flare). If you go the fast food route, a Big Mac is a Big Mac. $10 or less can easily buy a meal for two people at a McDonalds or Wendy’s. Just make sure to save back a couple dollars for antacids and insulin shots.

Obviously, the cities will have much more exciting and extravagant options for fine dining. Being that you want to live a little more elegant, a nice three-course meal with a glass of wine can range from $35 to $100 per person . Granted, this is where there is the most fluctuation. Manhattan will have largely higher prices than Philly.

So for two people, depending on the depth of your tastes and/or wallet, two people could expect to spend between $150/$200 if you are buying from the supermarket and more towards $800/$1000 if you were eating out every meal a week. It really ranges. Sit down restaurants with tipping really add up. Hopefully you won’t need surf n’ turf at every meal, but just know you’ll need to spend one of the larger parts of your money on food.

How Much is Transportation in America for 3 Months?

Your expenses in this area will depend largely on what part of the country you’re traveling to. Here’s an example: In New England, the price of everything is typically a little higher than when traveling in the West. But the East Coast tends to have a lot more public and economic transport options. Check out Megabus and Goto Bus , and with enough time in advance for your booking you can get city-to-city bus tickets for as low as $5 per person.

Car rentals a very feasible options, as most rental companies give huge price breaks to those who book for weeks at a time. A 12-week rental might be as cheap as $1200, and shorter times respective. But in any case, that means about $100 a week in rental fees, plus maybe $50 or so in fuel, and that way you have total freedom to cruise the country at your leisure. Know that some of the tolls on the East Coast are pretty hefty ($18 to cross bridges in NYC at times), whereas they pretty much don’t exist west of the Mississippi. Any city, however, will have parking fees that can get as low as 50 cents a day or as high as $60 a day. Travelling by car is definitely the most convenient way to see some of America’s best small towns and more remote areas.

How Much is Accommodation  in the America for 3 Months?

If your aim is cheap and comfortable, you might forget hotels altogether. A Holiday Inn Express will most likely charge you close to $100 a night (for decent but mostly subpar accommodations), whereas AirBnb has some incredible places to stay and will have a wide range of cool houses, apartments, and rooms for as low as $20 a night. They will also usually include the attention and help of switched-on hosts. If you haven’t already used Airbnb, you can score $40 worth of free stay credit here . If you are driving around the country, you can find motel chains with parking right outside of major cities for around $60 per night. Many of these have been renovated and have flat screens and comfy beds, but you can also end up in some roach motels that you have seen in shoots outs on TV. However, no trip to America would be complete without staying in some motel that you have seen in a horror slasher film or in a Vegas honeymoon/drunken elopement storyline.

How Much Does Entertainment Cost for a 3 Month USA Roadtrip?

If you want cheap or free entertainment, check out the parks and museums in any city you go to. Almost all the museums in Washington DC have free entry, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art allows free entry to any self-guided tourist (i.e. you).

On the other hand, a Red Sox game at Fenway Park will be about $35 a person for tickets, or more if you want better seats. Competetive sports teams in the USA that have sold out crowds, you will be looking at more in the $100 starting price range for a ticket. Typical entry fees to a movie theater are around $10 for main showings, or $6 for an afternoon matinee. Musicals and live theatre performances, like Broadway in NYC and each major cities own productions are $75 starting usually to upwards of a few hundred for a popular show in a big town.

National Parks will almost always offer voluntary donations as an entry fee. The US is big on promoting its parks as a sustainable attraction for tourists, so whether it’s Utah’s Mighty 5 or Redwood Forest in the West, or the Great Smoky Mountains in the South, there are weeks of fun to be had in the parks on almost no expense.

So if you’re wondering, “How much money do I need to travel America for 3 months?” this will give you an idea. Think $150/week in transport, $200/week for food, $350/week in accommodations, and whatever you want to spend or not spend on entertainment. Obviously if you’re a high-roller, there’s plenty of ways to spend your money in the great USA, but it is possible to have a blast and not break the bank.

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More reading, 1 thought on “how much money do i need to travel america for 3 months”.

Great post! A road trip for 3 months is high on the bucket list. Thanks for the tips! Also, I’m glad to have found an all round American blog and I’m a fan of your writing style (sarcasm included ;-)). Keep up the good work!

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• Three months traveling through South America on a budget
• < Destinations

Destinations

By David Szmidt October 6, 2022

By David Szmidt | October 6, 2022

Last update: October 17, 2022

South America is one of the most amazing continents in the world, but if you’re thinking about going, you’ll need to do some planning. Budget, paperwork, when to go, what to pack, vaccinations, which countries to visit, and how to get around… we’ve got all this covered

This is Kiwi.com ’s guide to South America , and it’s in two parts. Firstly, we’ll look at some of the most common questions asked about backpacking around South America , and then we’re going to talk to someone who’s actually done a lot of the things you’ll want to do. Let’s explore!

How much money do you need to backpack around South America?

A typical budget is probably around €1,000 a month, but will, of course, vary depending on where you stay, which country you’re in, and what you decide to do. Use €1,000 as an estimate and adjust accordingly.

What are the best countries to visit in South America?

‘ Best ’ is, of course, very subjective. What do you want to do? Let’s take the five most popular countries and see why people go there.

Buenos Aires , the capital, is one of the most colorful and cultured cities in South America, with tango rhythms and passionate people. The scenery is spectacular as well, giving you a little bit of everything: rainforests in the subtropical north, the great plains that are home to the gauchos (Argentinian cowboys) and vineyards , and the mountains and ice fields of Patagonia.

The country with a reputation as the place for a party comes in second. No wonder, with cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo to explore. Spend your days on the beach , your nights in the bars, and when you’re exhausted from city life, explore the jungles of the interior. The Amazon is one of the great natural wonders of the world, and ethical/ecotourism is a great way to see it for yourself.

A narrow strip along the edge of the continent, Chile includes the wonderful city of Santiago, from which you can explore further. Skiing in the Andes, exploring the almost martian landscape of the Atacama Desert, or heading to the end of the world in southern Patagonia, Chile is almost South America in a nutshell.

Many people visit Peru because it’s home to Machu Picchu , one of the most-visited sights in South America, but stay to explore the colorful towns and other places that hark back to the Incan civilization, such as the city of Cusco.

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For years a bit of a no-go spot, Colombia is now immensely popular. Cities like Bogotá , the capital, and Medellín, attract visitors for their lively arts scenes and bouncing nightlife. There’s history in places like Cartagena, and beaches that rival any of those on the islands of the Caribbean.

When’s the best time to travel?

As with what you want to see, this will depend on what you define as ‘best’. The one key thing you have to remember if you’re coming from the northern hemisphere, the seasons are the opposite. However, it’s also, as mentioned, a vast continent, so if you’re planning to spend time in the north (Colombia, Venezuela, and so forth), try May to September. The very south — Chile, Argentina and the like — are best between October and April .

Things to book before traveling to South America

If you’re a planner, this sort of trip might not be for you! Of course, you’ll have places you’d like to go, but aside from flights onto the continent and back again, the best thing to do is decide when you’re there. Internal travel is pretty easy (and great value, and popular, as we’ll see), and while there are things that need booking (the Inca Trail or an Amazonian trek, for example), the best thing to do is use your judgment. After all, in most cities, there’s such a wide variety of places to stay that if you’re booked in advance for five nights somewhere that turns out to be a bit grim, that’ll either dampen your enthusiasm, or cost more again if you decide to move somewhere else.

Do you need a visa to travel to South America?

Visa requirements will depend on your nationality, naturally, but if you’re an EU citizen, it’s unlikely you’ll need one before you go. Most countries will grant tourists a 90-day travel visa upon entry, and this is also true for US , Australian, New Zealand , Canadian (and a whole bunch of other) travelers. You will need a passport that’s valid for at least six months from your entry date, but to be absolutely 100% sure, check each country’s individual guidelines before you go.

Do you need vaccinations for a trip to South America?

The coronavirus pandemic made vaccination restrictions one of the most-searched topics around, and people quickly realized that things could change very quickly. The same applies here. Check each individual country you’re planning to visit at least three months before you travel, but you’ll probably need a vaccination against yellow fever at the very least. Brazil, for one, will need a yellow fever vaccination certificate to grant you a tourist visa at the border.

You might also consider malaria tablets if you’re thinking of traveling into the rainforests, and if you’re heading into the mountains , there are also pills you can take to combat altitude sickness . This all depends on your itinerary of course, but it’s still good to keep in mind.

With the basic questions answered, we talked to Bára Vrzáková, an adventurous traveler who spent six weeks backpacking through Chile, about her experiences

“It’s not exactly the same, but what I experienced in Chile gave me a pretty good idea of what traveling in South America is about.” That’s true, and we don’t want to fall into the trap of thinking the whole continent is one homogenous place, but talking to Bára gives a vivid impression of many common aspects of such an adventure.

“Overall, prices were comparable to, say, a small town in Spain . A bit more [than the Czech Republic , where Bára is based], but not much. What did surprise me was the fact that you could pay by card pretty much everywhere — a couple of people I met in a rural area took me to a bar that was basically a wooden hut, but even there you could pay by card. Oh, and the beer is great in Chile! Maybe it’s something to do with German settlers coming there, I don’t know!”

Bára is a graphic designer, and one of the ways she funded her trip was by working on a farm. “It was like a farm with a restaurant attached. Or a restaurant with a farm attached, I don’t know which!” Having looked on workaway.info for something suitable, she found this project.

“It was in northwest Patagonia. You just find a project you like, message them, and see what happens. This particular project wanted people who could bring something extra, so I was doing the basics like picking and washing carrots, you know, but also doing graphic design. They wanted illustrations of the flora and fauna of the farm and surroundings, so when people walked around the farm and gardens , they’d see my illustrations and read a small explainer. Guests would know what flower or herb they were looking at and, therefore, what they were eating. In exchange, I got free accommodation and free food .”

Exploring the region was easy as well. “ Buses are super comfortable, and probably the most common way to get anywhere, particularly long-distance overnight buses. On those long journeys, you get a blanket and a snack, which was a nice surprise. Everything is easily bookable online; I’d like parts of Europe to reach the comfort and ease of some parts of South America!

“Hitchhiking is common too, and seems generally safe in rural areas, if you’re traveling between small towns or villages. Stick your thumb out and either the first or second car will stop.

“People were generally just really nice. Even when I got a bit lost in Santiago, the absolute first person I asked for directions was happy to help. The second person even gave me their map!

“You do need to speak at least a little bit of Spanish, ‘survival Spanish’, let’s say. ‘Where is the…?’ ‘Can you take me to…?’ and so on, but communication is easy, and when people find out you’re a foreigner, they love to try and chat.”

@kiwi.com Do you agree?👽 #whytravel #alwaystravel #travellife #traveltiktok #travelblog #cheapflights #freetravel #budgettravel #cheaptravel #wehacktravel #wehackthesystem #kiwicomtravel ♬ original sound – Kiwi.com

It seems that one of the perks of traveling like this is that you meet a lot of like-minded people . “I’m still in touch with a couple of the people I met” says Bára, but she also told me that one of the disadvantages — if you see it that way — is that hostels are full of (generally European) tourists, all trying to do the same, to create their own adventure . Couchsurfing is still a big thing though, and she found this was one of the very best ways to meet the locals and discover things she’d never have found by herself.

A South American adventure just for you

@kiwi.com You’re on the right track, if you’ve been looking for cheap flights!😇 #cheapflights #freetravel #budgettravel #cheaptravel #wehacktravel #wehackthesystem #kiwicomtravel #HavaianasLivreDeCliches ♬ BORN FOR THIS – Foxxi

No matter what you choose to do, how you travel, or where you go, Kiwi.com is the place to be for low-cost travel on planes, trains and buses. Try using Nomad to plan a multi-city trip, set up a price alert to book when your flight drops to a price you like, or create itineraries that wouldn’t usually exist using self-transfer .

Kiwi.com’s travel hacks will help make your South American adventure even better.

Did you like this article? For more travel inspiration, visit   Kiwi.com Stories .

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David Szmidt

David is a lead writer for Kiwi.com, as well as a football-watcher, music-listener and beer-appreciater. @UtterBlether

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