Tracking expenses on a trip, without ruining the trip

On holiday you spend differently and track less. A little structure before you leave makes the return less painful.

1. Set a trip budget in advance

Decide a total, and rough shares for stay, food, travel and shopping. Having a number makes daily decisions easier.

2. Tag everything to the trip

Give all trip spending a single tag so it stays separate from your normal month.

3. Log once a day

A two-minute check each evening is enough. Do not log every purchase on the spot.

4. Watch foreign card charges

Currency conversion and international fees add up. Check the charge on your statement after the trip.

5. Review afterward

Compare the real total with the plan, and use it to set the next trip's budget.