Build a budget

When building a budget remember to leave room for flexibility. Prices change and emergencies happen so budget for them.

• Airfare, including all taxes and airport fees. Plan for cost increases.
  • In addition to the typical taxes and fees charged by airlines, many carriers are now also charging a "fuel surcharge" to offset the higher cost of fuel. The surcharges can range between $20-$120 per roundtrip ticket. Many airlines now include these additional fees within their advertised prices. However, other airlines, as well as many online travel booking sites, promote fares without the charge.
• Letter of Invitation and Visas
• Other transportation (Bus, train, rentals)
• International travel Insurance
• Lodging and lodging materials (sleeping bags, mats, etc)
• Food (while traveling and at destination)
• Team Training Expenses (Food, Training Supplies, Devotions, Field Guides)
• Ministry costs: language interpreters, facility rentals, equipment, Bibles, Children Gospel Boxes, children supplies, construction supplies and equipment.
• Team T-shirts
• Exit taxes
• "Buffer" funds to cover unexpected expenses
• Other costs

We strongly suggest having two people account for the money. This will help to ensure accurate accounting. We also suggest using a computerized spreadsheet such as Microsoft Excel.

Consider these spreadsheets:

• A spreadsheet for participant payments.
• A spreadsheet as a running log of what finances has arrived to date, spent and remaining.
• A spreadsheet listing all outgoing payments including dates, amounts and place where money was spent.