A month-long trip budget worksheet that I use for every trip, shared because the structure is what matters not the specific numbers.

Pre-trip fixed costs:

• Return flights: $___ (research and book 6-10 weeks ahead for most routes)
• Travel insurance: $___ (typically $40-80 for 4 weeks comprehensive)
• Vaccinations needed: $___ (check CDC traveler health, some are one-time costs)
• Visa fees: $___ (per country, look up official rates)
• Travel credit card annual fee if applicable: $___

In-destination daily estimate:

• Accommodation: $/night x days = $ (research average by destination)
• Food: $/day x days = $ (street food vs sit-down mix)
• Local transport: $/day x days = $
• Activities/entrance fees: $/week x weeks = $
• Communications (SIM card): $___ (one-time, $5-20 most destinations)

Slush fund: daily estimate x 15% (covers unexpected costs without stress)

Emergency reserve: $300-500 in USD kept separate, returned home if unused

Total budget = pre-trip + in-destination + slush + reserve

The key insight: fill this in with real research numbers before you book flights. If the total exceeds your savings, either extend your savings window or choose a cheaper destination. Discovering the budget shortfall at month 2 of a planned 3-month trip is avoidable.