When you're getting ready to plan a trip, figuring out how much different activities will cost is really important. Here are some simple ways I estimate expenses to stay within my budget:

1. Do Some Research

   • Before I start planning, I look at travel blogs, forums, and websites like TripAdvisor and Viator. This helps me find popular things to do.
   • I write down the prices of activities that look interesting. Also, I check if there are any discounts for booking early or if prices are lower for groups.

2. Organize Your Activities

   • I group my activities into three categories: free, moderate, and splurge. This makes it easier to see where I can save money and where I can spend a little more.
   • For example, hiking is usually free, but guided tours can cost between $30 and$150.

3. Estimate Your Daily Costs

   • If I have a mix of activities, I calculate my daily budget. If I plan to do three activities that cost about $50 each, that adds up to$150 a day.
   • I also set aside a little extra money for surprise plans—around $30 just in case.

4. Keep Track of Your Spending

   • Finally, I make sure to keep track of what I spend while I’m on the trip. I use a simple note on my phone to help me adjust if I see that I'm going over my budget.

By following these simple steps, you'll have a better idea of what to expect. This way, you can manage your travel budget while still having a great time!