Family Vacation Cost Calculator

A family vacation budget should separate adult and child costs because many costs (activities, flights, meals) differ by age. Children under 2 often fly free or at reduced rates, and many attractions offer free entry for young children. Build your budget by listing all adults and all children separately, then apply the relevant adult or reduced child rate to each cost category.

For international flights, children under 2 years old who do not occupy their own seat fly as 'lap infants' at 10% to 25% of the adult fare plus taxes. Children aged 2 to 11 occupy their own seat and typically pay 75% to 100% of the adult fare depending on the airline and route. At age 12, most airlines charge the full adult fare. For domestic US flights, children aged 2 and above must have their own paid seat at the same price as adults.

Family travel often involves hidden costs including: extra checked baggage for pushchairs and car seats (often free on international routes but verify), travel cot or crib charges at hotels ($10 to $30 per night), cost of formula and nappies in destination countries (which can be significantly more expensive than at home), kids' activity clubs or childcare at resorts, and the time cost of shorter travel days with younger children.

All-inclusive resorts can be cost-effective for families because meals, drinks, and many activities are included at a fixed price. For families with young children who eat frequently and simply, the unlimited food component often provides value. However, if children eat small amounts, if the resort's activities are not well-suited to your family's ages, or if you prefer to explore local food, booking separately may be more flexible and cost-competitive.

Child activity costs vary by destination and type. Theme parks (Disney, Universal, etc.) charge $80 to $150 per child per day for entry alone. Museums in major US cities typically charge $10 to $25 for children. Many national parks, zoos, and public attractions offer children under 3 or under 5 free entry. Budget $20 to $60 per child per day for a mix of activities at a typical mid-range destination.