how much world tour cost

Taking a world tour is a dream for many travelers. The idea of exploring different countries, immersing yourself in new cultures, and experiencing the beauty of our diverse planet is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. But, what does it actually take to go on a world tour? And, more importantly, how much will it cost?

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about planning a world tour, from the cost of flights and accommodation to food, transportation, and travel tips. While budgeting for such a massive trip can be daunting, the experience is undeniably priceless.

Why a World Tour?

A world tour isn’t just about ticking places off your bucket list. It’s about discovering different ways of life, learning about history, tasting foods you’ve never imagined, and forging connections with people from around the globe. From the iconic cities of Europe to the pristine beaches of the Pacific, and from the bustling streets of Asia to the natural wonders of South America, a world tour gives you a chance to experience the diversity and beauty of our planet firsthand.

Whether you’re taking a gap year, a sabbatical, or simply want to invest time into fulfilling your wanderlust, a world tour allows you to grow, learn, and make memories that last a lifetime.

Planning Your World Tour

Before we dive into costs, it’s important to consider the planning process. The logistics of a world tour can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down step by step makes it much more manageable.

1. Decide on Your Route

A world tour can mean different things to different people. Some may want to focus on visiting all seven continents, while others may focus on specific regions or experiences, like the best beaches or the greatest cities.

A popular route might include:

Europe: London, Paris, Rome, Barcelona
Asia: Tokyo, Bangkok, Bali, India
Australia & New Zealand
South America: Brazil, Argentina, Chile
North America: USA (New York, Los Angeles), Canada

You’ll want to balance the countries you’ve always wanted to visit with travel-friendly regions that offer more affordable accommodations and food.

2. Travel Duration

How long do you want to travel? Some people take world tours lasting six months to a year, while others condense the experience into 3-4 months. Your duration will significantly impact the cost of your trip.

3. Time of Year

Travel seasons matter. Flights and accommodations can vary greatly depending on whether you’re traveling in peak tourist season or during off-peak times. Planning your travel in off-seasons will save you money.

How Much World Tour Cost?

Estimating the cost of a world tour depends on several factors: the countries you visit, the duration of your trip, your travel style (backpacking, mid-range, or luxury), and the experiences you want.

1. Flights

Flights will probably be one of the biggest costs of your trip. If you’re planning to visit multiple continents, round-the-world (RTW) tickets are worth considering. Airlines such as Star Alliance and Oneworld offer packages that allow you to fly to several destinations on one ticket, potentially saving you thousands.

RTW Tickets: Typically range from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the number of stops and distance.
Budget Flights: Using budget airlines within continents can help save money, especially in Europe and Southeast Asia. For example, flights from London to Rome on budget airlines like Ryanair can cost as little as $50.

2. Accommodation

Accommodation costs vary depending on where you’re traveling and your level of comfort. In Southeast Asia, hostels and guesthouses can be incredibly cheap, while in Western Europe, even basic accommodations can be pricey.

Backpacker/Hostel: $10-$30 per night (especially in Asia, South America, and Eastern Europe).
Mid-range hotels: $50-$100 per night in most places, except for high-end cities like London or Paris.
Airbnb/Vacation rentals: Depending on the city, prices can range from $40 to $150 per night for a private apartment or home.
Luxury stays: In countries like Japan, Australia, or the US, expect to pay upwards of $150 per night for a luxury hotel or resort.

3. Food

Food costs will depend on your tastes and the countries you’re visiting. Street food in Southeast Asia can be incredibly cheap and delicious, while dining in European cities can quickly add up.

Budget-friendly destinations: In countries like Thailand, India, and Vietnam, you can find meals for as little as $1 to $3 at local food stalls.
Mid-range: In Western Europe or Australia, meals at casual restaurants typically range from $10-$20 per person.
High-end dining: If you plan to indulge in fine dining, be prepared to spend $50 or more per person, particularly in cities like New York, Paris, or Tokyo.

4. Transportation

Moving between cities and countries can be a significant expense. However, using local transportation and avoiding expensive tours can help cut costs.

Local public transport: Subways, buses, and trains are affordable in most major cities. For example, a day pass in Tokyo costs around $6.
Rail travel in Europe: Eurail passes are popular for getting around Europe, with prices starting at $200 for a 4-country pass.
Car rental: If you’re traveling with a group or exploring rural areas, renting a car can be a good option, though fuel and insurance costs should be factored in.

5. Activities and Tours

Your activities and tours will also affect your overall budget. Some destinations offer plenty of free attractions, like museums or national parks, while others may require guided tours or entry fees.

Cultural sites: Entry fees for popular tourist spots like the Colosseum in Rome or the Great Wall of China can range from $10-$20.
Adventure activities: Experiences like scuba diving in Australia or hiking Machu Picchu in Peru will set you back anywhere from $50 to $500.

Total Estimated Costs

Based on a 6-month world tour, here’s a rough estimate of how much you might spend:

Budget traveler: $12,000 – $15,000 (backpacking, hostels, street food)
Mid-range traveler: $20,000 – $30,000 (mid-range accommodation, casual dining, some tours)
Luxury traveler: $40,000 and up (luxury hotels, fine dining, private tours)

Keep in mind, these are general estimates. Your costs can be lower or higher depending on how you plan, where you travel, and the experiences you choose.

Tips for Saving on a World Tour

Use Credit Card Points & Miles: If you’re a frequent flyer, sign up for travel credit cards that earn you miles or points to put towards flights and accommodation.
Travel Off-Season: Visiting Europe in the winter or Southeast Asia during the rainy season will allow you to score lower prices on flights and hotels.
Cook Your Own Meals: While it’s great to indulge in local cuisine, cutting back by cooking at hostels or Airbnb apartments can save you a considerable amount of money.
Look for Deals on Activities: Websites like Groupon or Viator often offer discounts on tours and activities, especially in popular tourist destinations.

Final Thoughts

A world tour is an ambitious yet incredibly rewarding journey. While the costs can seem overwhelming, proper planning and budgeting can make this dream trip possible for almost any traveler. By carefully selecting your destinations, keeping an eye out for deals, and prioritizing experiences, you’ll create a trip that fits your budget and fulfills your wildest travel dreams.

Whether you’re spending months on the road or just a few weeks, the experiences you gain from traveling the world are truly priceless.

World Tour: A Dream Journey & how much world tour cost You