A housing budget may or may not include a very significant portion of the vacation budget. This will depend on your purpose, destination, travel companions and services. It will also depend on your travel budget.
· Purpose
If you really want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city and spend a quiet holiday with all the comforts of home, it is better to expect that the budget for accommodation will go through the ceiling. You will want your environment to be different. And better Of course, this translates into living space, comfort and expensive services. But a more relaxing holiday.
However, if your vacation time is intended for shopping, you won't want your hotel budget to be consumed in your shopping budget. Maybe a hotel, just outside the shopping district. Or at least near or accessible to it. After all, you wouldn't want to waste time traveling; much worse to waste unnecessary energy by dragging your loot. Unfortunately, you may have to allocate more to these places. The hotels are aware that theirs are strategic locations. Sorry, you can't have your cake and eat it too.
If you go to a festival where you plan to attend or participate in outdoor activities such as the Philippines Ati-Atihan or Rio Shrove Tuesday, you will probably be out all day. Your accommodation is only a place where you will rest. A small hotel or hostel can do where relatively cheap rates prevail. You will still be out all day.
· Vacation destination
If your vacation takes you to expensive and exotic places, your budget for accommodations will likely take a substantial part of your vacation budget. Not so with ordinary but memorable places.
· Travel friends
If on vacation with friends, accommodation will be a group decision. I just hope one of your friends knows a good place at a reasonable price. Or maybe a friend's vacation home?
Vacation time with the family is always a time of bonding. Family accommodations are always available in most vacation spots. And they offer reasonable prices.
Romantic getaways for couples will likely consume budget accommodation. Unless the couple plans are for nature trips. Building relationships are more favorable in romantic settings. But it depends on what the couple calls "romantic".
· Services
Air conditioning or nature? Private bathrooms or shared bathrooms? Only bed and breakfast or all meals included? Make your choice. More services and inclusions expect to pay more.
So how much should you budget for your accommodations? The web offers a rich source of offers. But the advice of friends and family is probably the best. If you are an adventurous type and you want hunting in the hotel to be part of the surprise, then go ahead! Who knows, you could probably find one that your friends aren't aware of.
However, before making the final decision for your accommodation budget, don't forget to plan for security. After all, you'll want to go back in one piece. And with pleasant memories.