When it's time to plan a new trip there's one thing that causes more anxiety than the airport.  The 'B' word... The mention of the word budget causes strange reactions.  People get all nervous, clam up or stutter. some just get downright offended.  It's really not a trick question though. No one's implying you're on a tight budget and want to eat street food and stay in hostels.

You may have no idea what the costs are of a trip, but you know whether you're looking to spend  around two or $20,000.  If you're truly just starting to plan, it's best to set your expectations in the beginning to know what you're in for.  Hawaii is big on everyone's list for some reason until they see what those tickets will cost.  $500 won't get you very far, but I've heard that as a budget. Here are some quick tips to get you started on creating a rough budget for your next fabulous adventure.  

 

1.A quick google search will tell you a ball park for airline tickets.  This is a big chunk of your budget that won't vary by too much.  You can adjust the number of days you travel and the type of hotel, but you've got to get there somehow.  

 

2. Think about the type of hotel you like and see what that costs where you want to go.  Our online booking link can give you a starting point for resorts and hotels in Mexico, the Caribbean and Costa Rica.

 

3. Read guides and blogs to get an idea of what food cost in your chosen destination.  The Travel Channel or Food Network has probably done a show where you want to go.  Look up some of their recommendations and you can gauge how much you'll need for food.  

 

After you've come up with a ball park figure it is much easier to plan.  Now you know whether you can stay a little longer than you anticipated or need to save a little more.  Then it's time for the fun stuff! 

 

4. Work with a travel professional you trust.  Whether that's me (I hope!) or someone at your favorite 800 number, building a rapport is crucial.  You need to be comfortable saying 'whoa, that's too much!' or expressing you'd like something a little more upscale.  No one wants you to be unhappy, but we're not mind readers.