The Cost of Travel

Total Cost of a Trip

Beyond what you'll spend on-site, the overall cost of a trip includes other expenses:

-# The price of transportation (flight or otherwise) from home to your destination.

-# Potential visa fees, as well as the cost of renewing travel documents or obtaining any necessary paperwork.

-# Purchasing equipment, guides, maps, etc.

-# Banking or currency exchange fees.

-# Incidentally, the cost of printing photos after your return and any souvenirs you bring back.

Saving Money

Some Ideas for Saving Money

Bargaining

Traditionally, a way to save money (or, conversely, spend more) depending on how well you handle it...

Where and What to Bargain For?

It's important to know that not everything is negotiable. Bargaining primarily applies to purchases made in souks and other shops. Similarly, you can negotiate hotel nights, vehicle rentals, hiring a guide, or agreeing on a taxi fare. However, there's no bargaining for meals, public transportation (though it's still useful to check fares), or entry fees for sites and monuments.

Souvenirs

From Africa to Asia or parts of the Americas, bargaining is the norm when buying souvenirs.

To bargain effectively, first determine the maximum amount you're willing to spend and research prices beforehand (fixed-price shops). In shops, only start negotiations if you're genuinely interested, and don’t haggle over the equivalent of a few cents. When the first price is given (avoid stating yours first), you can typically offer a third, aiming to settle at 50 or 60% of the initial price. In any case, bargaining takes time but should remain enjoyable and a sort of "mutual exchange" between both parties.