There is no single answer, but there is a sensible range. A short trip to Southeast Asia or the Gulf usually costs a fraction of a long-haul trip to Europe, and the same destination can cost twice as much in peak season as it does a few months later.
This guide gives indicative all-in budgets per person for the most popular overseas destinations, shows how a trip budget is built, and explains why two quotes for the same trip can differ so much.
Indicative all-in cost per person
| Destination | Trip length | Budget | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thailand | 5N | ₹39,000 | ₹60,000 | ₹1,14,000+ |
| Dubai | 4N | ₹49,500 | ₹72,500 | ₹1,29,500+ |
| Singapore | 4N | ₹48,500 | ₹73,500 | ₹1,27,500+ |
| Bali | 5N | ₹64,500 | ₹93,500 | ₹1,63,500+ |
| Vietnam | 6N | ₹53,200 | ₹79,200 | ₹1,39,200+ |
| Maldives | 4N | ₹59,000 | ₹1,17,000 | ₹2,29,000+ |
| Mauritius | 5N | ₹74,000 | ₹1,12,000 | ₹2,13,000+ |
| Bhutan | 5N | ₹45,000 | ₹65,000 | ₹1,31,000+ |
| Europe | 9N | ₹1,87,000 | ₹2,74,000 | ₹4,92,000+ |
Treat these as ranges rather than promises. A good quote will list exactly what is included so you can compare it with these figures.
How to build your own budget
A trip budget is easier if you split it into the same few lines every time:
- Return flights. Check a few dates; midweek and shoulder-season fares can be much lower.
- Visa, permit or entry fees. Some countries have none, while others charge a fee plus an agent or visa-centre charge.
- Hotels. Per night per room, divided by the number of people, multiplied by the nights.
- Food. A realistic daily amount for the destination and your style.
- Local transport. Metro and taxis, or a private car and driver.
- Activities and entry fees.
- Insurance, SIM, forex charges and shopping.
Add a 10 to 15 per cent buffer. It is easier to come in under budget than to find extra money mid-trip.
What moves the price most
- Season. Peak months can raise hotel and flight prices by a large margin compared with the shoulder season.
- Hotel category and location. A well-located three-star can cost less overall than a cheaper hotel with expensive transfers.
- Flight routing. Nonstop flights are usually pricier but save time; connections can be cheaper but longer.
- Package inclusions. Meals, transfers, sightseeing and entry tickets vary widely.
- Group size. Private cars and villas are cheaper per person when shared.
- How early you book. Late bookings in peak season rarely get good prices.
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Short trips vs long trips
Shorter, closer trips such as Thailand, Dubai, Singapore and Nepal give the best value for a first international trip. Long-haul destinations like Europe cost more because of flights, hotels and the time needed, and they need a visa with more paperwork.
Cheapest options from India
- Nepal: no visa for Indian citizens and low hotel costs.
- Thailand: short flights, good hotels and many packages.
- Vietnam and Malaysia: low on-the-ground costs and good variety.
- Bhutan: more expensive per day because of the fee, but no visa required.
Ways to lower your trip cost
- Travel in the shoulder season.
- Be flexible with dates by a day or two to find cheaper flights.
- Compare more than one quote. Prices and inclusions vary.
- Skip unnecessary add-ons and book only what you will use.
- Use public transport where it is easy and safe.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Thailand trip cost from India?
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Using indicative figures, a five-night trip is about ₹39,000 for a budget plan and ₹60,000 for a standard plan, per person including flights.
How much does a Dubai trip cost from India?
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A four-night standard trip is about ₹72,500 per person including flights and visa, based on indicative figures.
Is an international trip cheaper than a domestic trip?
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Not always. Some overseas trips, such as Thailand or Nepal, can cost less than a premium domestic holiday, especially in peak domestic seasons.
Should I book flights and hotels separately or as a package?
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Packages are convenient and often include transfers and tours; booking separately can be cheaper if you have the time. Compare both.
Related destinations and guides
Keep reading
Bali Trip Cost vs Thailand Trip Cost
Read moreInternational Trips Under ₹1 Lakh from Kolkata
Read moreHow to Plan an International Trip from India
Read moreBudget Travel Packages
Read moreHow to Get Multiple Travel Quotes for One Trip
Read moreWant actual prices for your trip?
Post your travel requirement on QuoteMyTrip and receive multiple tour plans and quotes from travel agents.
- Free for travellers
- Multiple tour plans and quotes
- Compare before you decide
- No obligation to book