Everyone travels differently – some prefer slow travel while some people like moving frequently in a short duration of time. Same can be said for travel cost – some might splurge on food while some shell out on accommodation. Everyone’s budget and travel cost varies depending on their preference, priority and the length of stay.
I’m sharing my travel cost with a hope that perhaps it can help create budget for someone planning to travel to Guatemala or for people who are just curious to find out how much other people spend on their travels. Here’s an average of how much I spent in 1 week in Guatemala:
1. Accommodation $109 CAD
2. Food $176 CAD
3. Transportation $221 CAD
4. Tours $87 CAD
5. Give (includes tips) $91 CAD
6. Souvenirs $57 CAD
TOTAL COST: $741 CAD
NOTE: Flight cost is not included here because flight cost depends on the country you are flying from.
For detailed explanation on my cost, see below:
1. Accommodation
The cost is for 7 nights in a hostel dorm. The price of hostel dorm room ranges from low to “high”, for backpacker standard, depending on the location in Guatemala. I find Flores more on a pricier side. For private rooms and hotel room, the cost will be more than double.
2. Food
The cost is mostly for dine-in restaurant in tourist areas and occasionally street food. The cost can easily be reduced to half by only eating at local eateries, or eating street food or even cooking. Despite being frugal when it comes to other things, I do happen to splurge on food sometimes.
3. Transportation
Local bus/Chicken bus is very very cheap. One trip costs less than a dollar. However, they do take longer than private transportation or group shuttles. I did take local transportation couple times but due to time constraints, my cost was mostly for group shuttles.
4. Tours
Price for most of the tours I found in Guatemala is fairly reasonable, as compared to the tours in some other countries. Though it doesn’t hurt to do your own research for price comparison.
5. Give (includes tips)
I put this category because for me part of my travel experience is to give, to see smile, and to help needy people when I can. If I can afford to travel, then I can definitely afford to give, even if it’s just a little. I’ve also included tips in this category since it is more of a courtesy etiquette and not a mandatory cost.
6. Souvenirs
The price range for this category varies based on the type of souvenir. I like to buy small things that, to me, represent the country but not necessarily has high monetary value.