How much does a mission trip usually cost? In this article, I’ll guide you through understanding the costs and allocation of funds for mission trips. Whether you’re planning to embark on a mission trip or backing someone who is, it’s valuable to grasp how the trip’s expenses are calculated and the financial aspects involved.
How much does a mission trip usually cost?
The short answer of how much a short-term mission trip costs is between $500-$1,250 per person, per week (excluding airfare). At Nations Outreach, we offer group mission trips that are $750 to the Dominican Republic, $1,250 to Kosovo, and $1,500 to Uganda. None of these prices include airfare.
However, determining the cost of a mission trip can be tricky. It depends on multiple factors, such as destination, duration of the trip, and activities involved. Here’s a quick breakdown of how the money is spent:
Travel
Your travel costs are the most expensive portion of your trip. If you’re flying , the price will depend on your destination and flight availability. A flight to Mexico from the United States can cost over $500 after taxes and international fees.
If you’re traveling internationally, you’ll need a passport which costs over $100. You may also need visas, which can get expensive depending on the country. In some cases you may need vaccinations, travel insurance, and other expenses. It’s essential to research and plan these costs carefully.
Some trips, particularly ones organized for church groups, include the cost of airfare in the overall price. When I traveled to Sri Lanka in 2005, the two-week mission trip cost $2,500 and $1,800 of that was airfare.
Lodging
When you go on a short-term missions trip with a church or organization, the lodging is often fairly cheap because you’ll most likely stay at a church or in host homes. In some cases, you may be staying in hotels or local accommodations, which could add to the expenses.
But generally speaking, lodging is cheap compared to what you would expect to spend if you were to go on a vacation. In most countries, you can find basic accommodations for $10-$30 per night. This could vary depending on the location and type of lodging.
Meals
For organized trips, most of your meals will be included in the overall cost of the mission trip. However, I would recommend taking additional money for food and snacks. For example, if you want to buy something at the airport or if your trip has a planned day off, you’ll need to have extra money. Another problem I have encountered on various trips is running out of water when you’re in the city. Taking some extra cash will help.
Ministry Supplies
It’s common for mission trips to include activities such as construction projects, children’s programs, medical clinics, and evangelism. The cost of these activities is usually covered by the overall trip cost, but individual fundraising may be required for specific projects. You may also need to purchase supplies or equipment for your activities. This can include things like building materials, medical supplies, or sports equipment.
Conclusion
The cost of a mission trip encompasses a variety of expenses, from travel and lodging to meals and ministry supplies. While the upfront costs may seem daunting, these trips are often life-changing experiences, providing participants with the opportunity to affect positive change in global communities while also enriching their own lives.
To prepare, it is essential to budget carefully, consider fundraising opportunities, and plan for unexpected expenses. By understanding the financial commitments involved, you can ensure that the focus of your mission trip remains on the impactful work you set out to do.
