A lot can go into planning a trip, and budgeting and money is a really important thing to plan for! There are certain costs that can get overlooked when planning your budget for your trip and end up costing you more than expected. Keep reading for costs to consider in your travel budget!
New Gear
If you’re travelling you might need (or want!) some new gear. This could include a new camera, batteries, a new backpack, binoculars, bathing suits, walking or hiking shoes, etc. You’ll also want to pack enough sunscreen and bug spray if you’re heading to a tropical, tourist destination, because prices tend to be increased in places where those are necessities for tourists!
Visas and/or Photos
Visas can get expensive, and if they’re required to enter the country, it’s not really something you can skip! Some visas that you get upon entry require a passport photo, and if you are not prepared with one on hand, they will usually take one for you – but at usually at a way higher price than it would’ve been if you had come prepared! Make sure to factor visas and extra passport photos into your trval budget.
Renewing or Purchasing Your Passport
You need a passport to travel internationally and you need to make sure your passport is valid. Most countries require your passport to be valid at least six months upon arrival, so check your passport expiry date and make sure you don’t need to renew it before leaving.
Vaccines and Medications
Some countries require proof that you have certain vaccinations upon entry (a common one is Yellow Fever in some South American countries). You should also just be up to date on your vaccines anyway before traveling, and vaccines can get pricey! Other medication might be needed as well, such as motion sickness tablets, malaria pills, diarrhea pills, etc. – which is why it’s recommended you talk to a doctor before traveling!
Entrance Fees
Some countries charge a fee for entering their country – so make sure to do your research! For example, Bolivia requires USA citizens to pay $150 upon entrance, because the USA requires citizens to pay the same fee when entering the USA. So do a quick search in any country you’re planning to visit.
Travel Insurance
A common cost a lot of first time travelers don’t think of is the cost of their travel insurance. You need this and you need to factor this into your budget!! A common place a lot of travellers get travel insurance from is World Nomads.
Foreign Transaction Fees
A lot of banks charge fees when using your card abroad. A way around this is to either get a card that has no foreign transaction fees or limit your card use overseas by taking cash and using it when possible (just be smart about keeping your cash safe).
Cell Phones & Sim Cards
You can usually find free wifi at hotels, hostels, and cafes, but if you want to have access to wifi while wandering around, most travelers purchase a sim card with data upon arrival – or have a phone plan that covers travel!
Tipping
If you take any tour – paid or free – usually at the end the guides ask for tips, and if you think they did a good job (which most do!!) you should give them a tip. Tips are also a common thing to give after receiving restaurant service in some countries. It’s not a huge expense, but it is something to keep in mind and plan for in your budget!
Did I miss anything? Send me a message on Instagram with any questions you have!
Find me on: Instagram | Pinterest | Youtube
Keep Reading:
- Websites I use to Research and Plan my Trips
- 12 Things to do in Dresden, Germany
- The Complete Guide to Staying in a Hostel
- How to Plan a Trip to Europe for the First Time
Hey! I’m Kat. Based in Alberta, Canada I love to travel to the Rockies and explore new places around the world. Follow along on my adventures and find inspiration and tips for your own travels.
