Key Takeaways
- Budget trips average ₹2,500-4,000/day domestically
- Always add a 15% buffer for unexpected expenses
- Booking transport 3-4 weeks early saves 20-40%
How to Use This Calculator
Our Trip Cost Calculator helps you estimate total travel expenses before you book anything. Enter your destination type, duration, travel style, and number of travellers to get a ballpark budget broken down by category.
Note: This article outlines the methodology. The interactive calculator is available at /tools/trip-cost-calculator.
Cost Categories Explained
Transport (30-40% of budget)
Flights or trains to your destination, plus local transport (auto, metro, cabs). Booking 3-4 weeks in advance typically saves 20-40% on flights.
Accommodation (25-35% of budget)
Hostels (₹500-1,500/night), budget hotels (₹1,500-3,000/night), mid-range hotels (₹3,000-6,000/night). Homestays on Airbnb often hit the sweet spot between cost and experience.
Food (15-20% of budget)
Street food and local restaurants: ₹300-500/day. Mix of local and tourist restaurants: ₹800-1,500/day. Primarily tourist restaurants: ₹1,500-3,000/day.
Activities (10-15% of budget)
Entry fees, guided tours, adventure activities, local experiences. Research free activities at your destination — most cities have free walking tours, public parks, and cultural sites.
Sample Budgets
| Destination | Duration | Style | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goa (domestic) | 4 nights | Budget | ₹12,000-15,000 |
| Manali (domestic) | 5 nights | Mid-range | ₹20,000-28,000 |
| Thailand (international) | 7 nights | Budget | ₹35,000-45,000 |
| Europe (international) | 10 nights | Mid-range | ₹1,50,000-2,00,000 |
Money-Saving Tips
- Travel during shoulder season (just before or after peak) for 30-50% savings
- Use a no-forex-markup credit card for international trips
- Cook 1-2 meals yourself if your accommodation has a kitchen
- Book activities through local operators, not hotel concierges