Are you dreaming about a trip to Fiji, with its sun-soaked beaches, vibrant culture and lush landscapes? Brilliant! But before you dive into those crystal-clear waters, let's talk about how much spending money you'll need. Don't fret, Crown Currency Exchange has your back, ensuring your Fijian dollars are sorted, so all you have to worry about is having the time of your life!
How Much Spending Money Do I Need for Fiji?
In Fiji, your budget can vary significantly depending on your travel style. Now, let's break down the costs for three types of travellers: budget travellers, mid-range travellers, and luxury travellers.
Budget Travellers
Dreaming of Fiji on a shoestring? No worries, a budget of about FJD $150 per day will have you living the island life. You'll be bunking in lively hostels, making friends on public buses, and whipping up your own meals with fresh local produce. And the best part? You can fill your days with free or cheap activities - think hiking through lush rainforests, swimming in sparkling blue waters, and soaking up the vibrant local culture.
Mid-range Travellers
Fancy a bit more comfort while keeping an eye on your wallet? With around FJD $300 per day, you can elevate your Fiji experience. Swap the hostel for a charming Airbnb, sample a variety of local restaurants, and swap the bus for the occasional taxi ride. Plus, you can start exploring paid activities. Dive into Fiji's world-renowned coral reefs or learn about the island's history at a local museum.
Luxury Travellers
If only the best will do, a daily budget starting from FJD $600 will ensure you experience Fiji in style. Think plush hotel rooms with stunning South Pacific ocean views, dining at the finest restaurants and exploring the islands at your own pace with a rental car. You can also indulge in exclusive tours and activities. Charter a private boat for a sunset cruise or pamper yourself with a spa day at luxury resorts. Just remember, during peak season, prices can go up, but for an unforgettable holiday, it's totally worth it!
Although Fiji is renowned for being a tropical paradise, it's important to do your research before you go. Luckily, Numbeo provides a comprehensive overview of the Fiji cost of living so you can make an informed decision about how much money to budget for your trip.
What Goes into a Travel Budget?
Your travel budget will generally include accommodation, food, transport, activities, and other expenses. Let's dive into each of these categories.
- Flights: The ticket to your tropical paradise. Remember, prices can fluctuate based on season and how far in advance you book.
- Accommodation: Whether it's a hostel dorm, a charming Airbnb, or a luxurious resort, this is your home away from home.
- Food & Drink: From street food delights to fine dining experiences, this fuels your adventure (and your Instagram feed).
- Transportation: This includes getting around locally, be it by taxi, bus, or rental car.
- Activities: All the fun stuff! Diving, museum visits, hikes, and more - tailor this to your interests.
- Shopping & Souvenirs: You'll want a memento (or ten) of your unforgettable trip.
- Unexpected Expenses: It is always good to have a buffer for those "just in case" moments. Better safe than sorry!
What is the Cost of Accommodation in Fiji?
Catching those Z's in Fiji comes with a wide variety of options. We've broken down the expected cost of accommodation for budget, mid-range and luxury travellers.
- Budget Travellers: For budget travellers, expect to pay roughly FJD $19 to FJD $50 per night.
- Mid-range Travellers: For mid-range travellers, the price starts from around FJD $100 to FJD $150 per night.
- Luxury Travellers: And for luxury seekers, you can expect accommodations starting from as high as FJD $300 per night. However, if you're travelling during peak season, prices can go up significantly.
Different accommodation options
- Hostels: A bunk in a 4-6-bed dorm will cost you about 40-60 FJD per night. If you don't mind the crowd, an 8-bed (or more) dorm comes to around FJD $20 to FJD $25. For some privacy, a single room in Fiji costs FJD $90 to FJD $130 per night. Most places in this island nation offer free Wi-Fi, and some even have kitchen facilities.
- Camping: While wild camping isn't the norm, some hostels will let you pitch your tent for a bargain price.
- Budget/Mid-range Hotel: Starting at FJD $145 per night, you get the basics - free Wi-Fi and TV included.
- Airbnb: You'll find plenty of options here. Private rooms average between FJD $50 to FJD $90 per night, while you can have a whole apartment to yourself for about FJD $180 to FJD $300 per night.
Our money-saving tips for accommodation costs:
- Book in Advance: Especially during peak seasons, booking early can secure better prices.
- Consider Off-Peak Travel: Accommodation costs can drop significantly outside of peak tourist times.
- Shared Accommodations: Opting for a dorm bed or shared Airbnb can drastically cut down on costs.
What is the Cost of Food in Fiji?
Let's dive into the delicious world of Fijian cuisine, shall we?
- Street Eats: You'll find plenty of roadside stands serving up mouth-watering curries and stews for under FJD $6. You can score heaping plates of dhal, roti, and chutney for less than FJD $11 in any town. Just avoid unsanitary stalls as we don't want you to get sick and spoil your whole adventure.
- Mid-Range Restaurants: A meal at a mid-range restaurant, drink included, will run you about FJD $45 to FJD $60. Many islands offer accommodation with three meals a day, limiting your dining options to what's on-site.
- Buffets: These are a big hit and cost around FJD $70 to FJD $90 for dinner (less for breakfast). Domestic beer at the bar is about FJD $7. As always, be careful about unsanitary food and beverages.
- High-End Dining: For a luxurious dining experience, expect to pay around FJD $210 for a four-course meal or FJD $310 if you add wine. Seafood dishes like lobster or crab go for about FJD $70 to FJD $85.
- Groceries: If you're planning to cook your own meals, a week's worth of groceries will cost between FJD $70 and FJD $120. Keep in mind that in many markets, items like tomatoes or onions are sold in bundles. It's only worth grocery shopping on larger islands where food isn't included with your accommodation.
Our money-saving tips for food costs:
- Local Markets: Shopping at local markets can be cheaper than supermarkets, plus it's a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Eat Local: Stick to local dishes for a more affordable (and authentic) dining experience.
What is the Cost of Transport in Fiji?
Getting around Fiji's island paradise can be costly. Here are the expected costs for various modes of transport:
- Buses: Efficient and easy on the wallet, bus services by Coral Sun, Sunbeam, and Pacific Transport are a great option. A 4-hour ride from Suva to Nadi on the main island will set you back between FJD $8 and FJD $22. On smaller islands, you can flag down a bus at any stop, and rides usually cost just a few dollars.
- Ferries: Ferries connect the islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, Ovalau and Kadavu, and Vanua Levu and Tavaeuni. Fares start at around FJD $18. Just be aware that service to the Outer Islands can be sporadic and less reliable.
- Flights: For quick island hopping, flights are your best bet. A 30-minute flight between Nadi and Suva can be as low as FJD $150, while a flight from Suva to Koro Island costs about FJD $200.
- Taxis: Navigating around Fiji is a breeze, thanks to two main taxi services: local taxis and yellow airport taxis. When you hop into a yellow airport taxi, they start the meter at FJ$5, while local taxis kick things off at a much friendlier FJ$1.50.
- Car Rental: Renting a car can be pricey, averaging around FJD $130 per day. It might be worth considering if you're splitting the cost with friends.
Our money-saving tips for transportation costs:
- Public Transport: Opt for buses and ferries where possible for the most budget-friendly travel.
- Share Rides: If renting a vehicle, share the ride (and cost) with friends or fellow travellers.
- Plan Ahead: Booking flights and ferries in advance can help secure better rates.
What is the Cost of Activities in Fiji?
Alright, let's get down to the fun part - what are you going to do in Fiji?
- Beach Lounging: Grab a towel, slap on some sunscreen, and enjoy Fiji's pristine beaches. Cost? Absolutely free!
- Snorkelling: Swim with vibrant tropical fish and explore colourful coral reefs. Snorkelling gear can be rented for around FJD $100 or more per day, depending on how many hours you'll use it for.
- Surfing: Ride the waves at one of Fiji's top surf spots. Expect to pay around FJD$ 160 to FJD $650, depending on how many heads you have in the session. If you're solo, then it'll be costly, but if you've got a few friends with you, it's definitely worth it.
- Cultural Experiences: Learn about traditional culture and take part in ancient practices such as tapa cloth
- Hiking: Take to the hills and enjoy Fiji's stunning natural scenery. Most trails are free, but guided tours can cost around FJD $10 to FJD $190.
- Village Tours: Experience traditional Fijian life with a village tour. These typically cost around FJD $10 FJD.
- Scuba Diving: Dive deeper and discover the underwater world of Fiji. A single dive starts at about FJD $230 per person.
- Spa Day: Treat yourself to a relaxing massage or spa treatment. Prices start from FJD $490 per person to FJD $990 per couple.
- Fishing: Try your luck with a fishing charter. Half-day trips start from around FJD $57 per person.
- Kayaking: Paddle your way along Fiji's coastline. Kayak tours start at about FJD $344 per person.
- Zip-lining: Get your adrenaline pumping with a zip-line adventure. Expect to pay around FJD $72 to FJD $165 for a thrilling ride.
Our money-saving tips for activity costs:
- Group Discounts: If you're travelling with friends, look for group discounts on activities.
- Off-Peak Deals: Some operators offer cheaper rates during off-peak times.
- Bring Your Own Gear: If you have your own snorkelling or surfing gear, bring it along to save on rental costs.
Other Expenses to Consider for the Trip
You've got the basics covered - flights, accommodation, food, transport, activities, souvenirs, and a little something for those unexpected moments. But here are a few more things you might want to factor into your budget.
- Travel Insurance: Let's be real, insurance is like an umbrella. You don't think you need it until it starts raining.
- Internet Access: While most accommodations offer free Wi-Fi, you might want to stay connected while out and about.
- Tipping & Donations: Tipping isn't customary in Fiji, but donations are often appreciated when visiting villages. Think of it as a thank you for their hospitality.
- Laundry: If you're staying longer, you'll probably need to do laundry at some point.
- Visa Fees: Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa to enter Fiji. It's always best to check before you travel.
Remember, every budget is personal. Tailor yours to fit your needs and make the most of your Fiji adventure.
Most Cost-Effective Way to Take Dollars to Fiji
You're heading to Fiji and need Fijian dollars, right? Don't sweat it! Crown Currency Exchange is your Australian-based foreign currency exchange best friend. We offer competitive AUD to FJD rates that will make you smile - no commissions, no fees, and always competitive rates. Plus, as soon as you visit the store, you can walk out with Fijian dollars in your pocket. Find your nearest Crown Currency location here.
FAQs
Will I need cash for my visit to Fiji?
Yes, it's good to have some cash for small purchases, tips, and places that don't accept cards.
Which currency is used in Fiji?
Fiji uses the Fijian dollar (FJD).
Is Fiji considered an expensive destination?
Fiji can cater to all budgets. While it offers luxury experiences, budget-conscious travellers can also find affordable options.
