Let's Talk Travel Cost

I'm having serious sticker shock over the cost of our upcoming Europe trip.  When we decided to take this trip (4 weeks in 4 countries for 2 adults & 2 children) I figured it was going to cost around $10,000.  The truth is the reality is likely double that.

Here's the cost breakdown so far:

• Airline tickets: $1,800 (includes $100 travel agent fee) x 4 = $7,200
• Train transportation (Eurail Global Pass, including booking/reservation fees) = $3,000
• Basic economy rental car for 1-1/2 days = $160
• Hotel for 17 nights  = $3,900

Total = $14,260*

*This does not include transportation within cities, admission tickets, and food.  It also does not include the cost of luggage and other items purchased to bring on the trip (clothing, shoes, travel clotheslines, etc.)

GULP

Fortunately, our true travel cost will be $5,500 less.  We're saving $1,200 by taking Gümby out of preschool a month early before she starts Kindergarten and we're saving $1,200 in 4 weeks of summer day camp costs for Crumpet.  Plus, we're getting a sweet $3,100 travel credit from our incredible Capital One Venture travel rewards credit card program.

Cost after savings:
$14,260 - 5,500 = $8,760

Pretty awesome, isn't it?!  We've had that Capital One card for about 10 years and have been accruing points all this time.  It's nice to finally redeem.

In other news, I've been thinking a lot about my capsule wardrobe.  Post coming soon.