🧮The true cost of a trip
Flights and hotel are only part of the story. Here is the checklist of costs people forget — and their typical ranges — so you’re not surprised.
Updated: 2026-06-18
Bottom line: Budget flights + lodging, then add FX, card fees, transfers, local transport, food, activities and insurance — plus a 10–15% buffer.
The costs people forget
| Line item | Typical range | How to save |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign-transaction fee | often ~3% per charge | no-foreign-fee card |
| Currency conversion (DCC) | markup over mid-market rate | always pay in local currency |
| Baggage | varies by airline | check before comparing fares |
| Airport ↔ city transfers | at both ends | public transit over taxi |
| Food + local transport | daily × days × travelers | estimate by destination & style |
| Travel insurance | ~4–10% of trip cost (rule of thumb) | compare coverage, not just price |
These ranges are common industry rules of thumb — the exact percentage depends on your card, destination and airline.
How to build a true trip budget
- 1. Fixed cost: flights (incl. baggage and seat) + lodging.
- 2. Daily cost: food + local transport + activities × days × travelers.
- 3. Friction: foreign fees (~3%), transfers, insurance.
- 4. Buffer: add 10–15% for the unexpected.
Estimate your trip’s true cost →
Enter destination, days and travelers — the WizeTravel True-Cost calculator builds the full budget: flights, lodging, food, transport and more.
Frequently asked questions
What costs do people forget when budgeting?
FX conversion, card fees, transfers, local transport, baggage, tips, activities and insurance — together a meaningful percentage.
How much do FX and foreign fees cost?
Many cards charge a foreign fee around 3%, and conversion at a terminal/ATM (DCC) adds a markup over the mid-market rate. A no-fee card and paying in local currency avoids most of it.
Do I need travel insurance, and what does it cost?
Optional but often worth it. A common rule of thumb: ~4–10% of the non-refundable trip cost, depending on age, destination and coverage. Always read what’s covered.
How do I budget daily on-the-ground spend?
A realistic daily amount for food, transport and activities by destination and style, times days and travelers, plus a 10–15% buffer.
Why isn’t the flight price the real cost?
Headline fares often exclude seat selection, baggage and transfers at both ends. Add those + FX + daily spend to compare on true total cost.
Sources
ℹ️ These are general estimates based on public research — not advice. Prices, points and terms change; verify with the airline / provider before you book.