Trip Cost Calculator

Calculate the total cost of a trip including transportation, accommodation, and expenses

Trip Details

Transportation

Accommodation

Food & Meals

Activities & Extras

How to Budget for a Trip

Travel costs vary widely depending on your destination, travel style, and duration. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American household spends about $2,100 per year on travel, though actual vacation costs can range from a few hundred dollars for a weekend getaway to several thousand for an international trip. Planning ahead and understanding each cost category helps you set a realistic budget and avoid surprises.

Cost Breakdown Formula

Fuel Cost = (Distance / MPG) × Gas Price
Accommodation = Nightly Rate × Number of Nights
Food = Daily Budget × Travelers × (Nights + 1)
Total = Transportation + Accommodation + Food + Activities + Misc

Tips to Save on Travel

  • Book flights and hotels in advance for better rates
  • Travel during off-peak seasons to avoid premium pricing
  • Use fare comparison tools to find the best transportation deals
  • Consider vacation rentals for longer stays to save on meals
  • Look for city passes or bundled attraction tickets
  • Set a daily spending limit and track expenses as you go
  • Use credit card rewards or travel points when possible
  • Pack snacks and reusable water bottles to cut food costs

Average Travel Costs in the U.S.

Transportation

  • • Domestic flight (round-trip): $200-$600
  • • Gas (per mile, avg. car): $0.10-$0.18
  • • Rental car (per day): $40-$100
  • • Amtrak train (avg. route): $50-$300
  • • Intercity bus: $30-$150

Accommodation

  • • Budget hotel: $60-$100/night
  • • Mid-range hotel: $100-$200/night
  • • Vacation rental: $80-$250/night
  • • Hostel: $25-$60/night
  • • Camping: $10-$50/night

Food & Dining

  • • Budget meals: $20-$35/day per person
  • • Moderate dining: $40-$70/day per person
  • • Upscale dining: $80-$150+/day per person
  • • Groceries: $15-$30/day per person

Activities & Attractions

  • • Museum/gallery: $10-$30
  • • Theme park: $50-$150
  • • Guided tour: $30-$100
  • • National park entry: $15-$35 per vehicle

Trip Planning Guide

Budget Travel

For budget-conscious travelers, aim for $50-$100 per person per day domestically. Stay in hostels or budget hotels, eat at affordable restaurants and grocery stores, use public transportation, and focus on free attractions like parks, beaches, and walking tours.

Mid-Range Travel

A comfortable mid-range budget falls between $150-$300 per person per day. This covers a decent hotel, casual dining, rental car or rideshares, and a mix of paid and free activities. This is the most common travel budget range for domestic vacations.

Luxury Travel

Luxury travelers typically spend $400+ per person per day. This includes upscale hotels or resorts, fine dining, private transportation, premium experiences, and spa treatments. First-class flights and suite accommodations can push daily costs well above $1,000.

References

The cost estimates and travel data used in this calculator are based on data from reputable sources:

Note: This calculator provides estimates based on the values you enter. Actual trip costs may vary depending on your destination, season, booking timing, and personal spending habits. Fuel prices fluctuate regularly, and accommodation and flight prices depend on demand and availability. For the most accurate budget, research specific prices for your destination and travel dates. Always set aside a 10-15% contingency buffer for unexpected expenses.

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