How much should I set aside for emergencies?

Keep a $500 'emergency fund' in a separate account for unexpected medical care, last-minute flight changes, or replacing lost gear.

Is it cheaper to live in hostels or guesthouses?

Hostels are cheaper ($5-$8), but for long-term travel, private guesthouses ($12-$18) provide better sleep and security, which prevents burnout.

How to budget for long-term travel in India

Budget for $35 to $50 per day to live comfortably while moving between cities. This covers private guesthouses, three meals a day, train tickets, and occasional internal flights or guided tours.

Track your 'Base' vs 'Variable' costs. Set a hard limit for your daily 'base' (accommodation and food) at $25. Treat anything above that—like train upgrades, museum entries, or alcohol—as a 'variable' expense to be managed weekly rather than daily.
Use the 2-Tier Transport Strategy. Book AC-2 or AC-3 Tier train tickets online via the IRCTC website or an app like Ixigo 2-4 weeks in advance. If you buy last-minute 'Tatkal' tickets or fly, double your transport budget for that leg.
Eat at 'Meals' restaurants. Look for local vegetarian restaurants serving 'thali' or 'meals' for $1.50–$3.00. Avoid Western-style cafes which charge $8–$12 for a sandwich, and you'll save $200 per month.
Download banking apps with zero foreign fees. Use a card like Revolut or Wise to withdraw rupees directly from ATMs. Avoid the 'Dynamic Currency Conversion' (DCC) option on ATM screens, which usually adds a 5-7% markup.

How much should I set aside for emergencies?: Keep a $500 'emergency fund' in a separate account for unexpected medical care, last-minute flight changes, or replacing lost gear.
Is it cheaper to live in hostels or guesthouses?: Hostels are cheaper ($5-$8), but for long-term travel, private guesthouses ($12-$18) provide better sleep and security, which prevents burnout.