Start with fixed costs
List accommodation for every stop, domestic flights or trains, airport transfers and any bookings you cannot easily change. These costs often matter more on a short trip than small daily purchases. Keep international airfare separate because it depends heavily on departure country, season and booking date.
Estimate daily spending
Plan meals, coffee, local transport, mobile service, entrance fees and activities for each day. Use city price references for everyday costs, but do not treat them as hotel rates or tour prices. Your route, travel pace and choice of accommodation will shape the total.
Build a realistic reserve
Set aside money for delays, an extra night, medical needs or a changed itinerary. Choose an amount that fits your own financial cushion rather than relying on a universal percentage. Keep access to a second payment method and some local cash.
Make budgets for 7, 10 and 14 days
Use the same categories for each trip length, then adjust the number of hotel nights, meals and intercity transfers. A longer stay may reduce some per-day costs, but it also adds accommodation and daily expenses. Recheck prices and conditions before departure.
Questions and answers
How much money should I take for 10 days?
It depends on your route. Price accommodation and intercity travel first, then add daily food, transport, activities and a reserve.
Should I include international flights?
Calculate them separately because the price varies with your departure point, season and booking date.
What is usually the biggest cost?
For a short visit, accommodation and intercity transfers are often major costs. For a longer stay, accommodation remains important.
Where can I check local prices?
Use the city cost pages for everyday reference prices. They do not include flights or hotel rates.