Getting inside money intel from a Big Mac!

When you think about budgeting for a trip, your mind probably jumps to flights, hotels, and exchange rates. But there is a surprisingly simple tool that economists use to compare global prices. It is called the Big Mac Index. And yes, it is exactly what it sounds like.

The Big Mac Index was dreamed up by The Economist back in 1986 as a clever way to compare what your money is really worth around the world. It’s not perfect, but it gives a fun and surprisingly helpful snapshot of how far your dollars can stretch when you travel.

Shannon Airport Burger King- BK Irish style!

Because a Big Mac is made with the same ingredients around the world, it becomes a quirky but useful way to compare cost of living between countries. If a Big Mac is expensive, chances are your dinners, hotels, and activities will be too. If it is cheap, your dollar may go a whole lot further.

I actually have a personal ritual, and remember, this is a no judgement zone! Wherever I travel, I pop into a McDonald’s at least once. I love seeing what is different on the menu and what the prices say about the place I am in.

On my recent trip to China, I grabbed a warm pineapple pie, a large Diet Coke, and a soft serve ice cream for about $3. It was simple and fun, and it told me a lot about how far money could go there! If you think that is cheap, My hotel, the JW Marriott Hotel Xi'an Southwest was one of the most BEAUTIFUL hotels I've stayed in. INCREDIBLE. This is a true FIVE STAR hotel. How much a night, you ask? $97 a night. CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT!? (Now listen, China is a whole other kettle of fish,don't try and do this one on your own. Let me guide you and get you there, complete with getting those visas!)

Here are some updated Big Mac prices as of September 24, 2025:

• Switzerland: $7.75

• United States: $5.35

• Eurozone average: $5.26

• Portugal: $5.06

• Australia: $5.28

• Thailand: $3.86

• Vietnam: $2.88

• South Africa: $3.61

• Japan: $2.91

• India: $2.36

• Croatia: $4.39

source:wwwcashnetusa.com

So how can you use this when planning your next adventure?

It does not mean skipping the more expensive countries. Switzerland, France, Norway, and Australia are all spectacular. But if you are looking to plan smarter, travel longer, or balance a few splurges with some savings, this kind of index gives us an edge.

Here is how I use it with my clients:

Portugal gives you that Western Europe feeling without the Western Europe pricing.Thailand and Vietnam offer stunning hotels, incredible food, and rich culture at a fraction of the cost.Croatia brings Mediterranean beauty, great wine, and coastal charm without the sticker shock of Italy or Greece.South Africa delivers high-end safari lodges, ocean-view villas, and top-tier wine for less than you would spend almost anywhere else.

The point is not to chase cheap. The point is to get the most value from your vacation dollars. I help clients look at the big picture so they can spend money where it matters most, not just where the guidebooks say to go.

Burger King in Bratislava

The Big Mac Index is not perfect, but it is a great starting point for understanding how countries stack up in terms of cost. When used alongside expert planning, local insight, and real experience, it becomes one more tool in the travel advisor toolkit.

You could spend hours researching all of this yourself, OR you could work with someone who already knows how to work with your travel budget without compromising on quality. That is what I do every day at Fancy Fox Travel. Let’s build the trip that fits your style and your wallet.

Because your world is waiting. And it is full of great burgers!