How much does the average conference attendee spend on expenses?

[ChefMary412]

I am curious on the average amount of money spent on conference including everything (reg, air fare, food, hotel, etc)

Just trying to figure it out. I am flying out of boston, prov, manchester, Nh.. wherever is cheaper. I know that southwest and jetblue usually have good deals. I know I will talk with my cluster.. just wanted an immediate response on money (hahha)

 

[wadesgirl]

We drive so I don't have to pay airfare. I usually bring about $300 to pay for hotel, food etc at conference. This doesn't include registration.

 

[mscharf]

Here is the cost breakbown we gave out to our team. This doesn't include money for Merrill, shopping, or surprise packs! Hope it helps.

 

[raebates]

We drive, so I can't help on airfare. The conference hotel will be about $200 a night divided by the number of roommates. I'm planning $250 for incidentals and food this year, since there's no Executive Banquet.

Talk with your clustermates about where they like to eat. We generally choose mid-range restaurants. Some groups go cheaper. Some go fancier.

 

[chefann]

Actually, based on the agenda that's on CC, I wouldn't be surprised if there are no dinners included. That will add a fairly significant amount to needed food money.

 

[BethCooks4U]

Actually, based on the agenda that's on CC, I wouldn't be surprised if there are no dinners included. That will add a fairly significant amount to needed food money.

There are NO dinners provided this year unless you are an upper level director or have earned an invitation to the celebration of excellence dinner.

Not a big deal though, just one more dinner on our own and more time to visit Chicago. The conference fee does cover 3 breakfasts and 2 lunches (3 lunches if you are a director). That's as many meals as in the past - they swapped a dinner for a breakfast. Last year we had breakfast at the hotel and it cost a fortune so a night out for pizza will be a savings compared to that.

 

[BethCooks4U]

The attachment on post #3 is great and very accurate for most of us. For some the airfare will be more. The only extras besides that is if they have the surprise boxes again and you can't help yourself.

Also note that her cost for conference is the early bird rate so it's more if you register later or on-site.

ETA: There is also the cost of the shuttle or other transportation from and to the airport or parking if you drive.

 

[etteluap70PC]

this is what I typed up for my team... we will be traveling from Central MN

I estimated high on hotels

PC NC budget
4 nights would mean leaving on Sunday
3 nights we would need to leave EARLY monday
Conference hotel aprox price per night 250.00
x3 nights = 750 split 4 ways = 187.50ea
(possibly 2
bathrooms) + flight 130 = 317.5
or total with Driving expense 237.00

x3 nights = 750 split 3 ways = 250.00ea
+ flight 130 = 380.00
or total with Driving expense 300.00

X4 nights = 1000 split 4 ways = 250.00 ea
+ flight 130 = 380.00
or total with Driving expense 300.00

Non conf Hotel aprox price per night 150 x3 nights = 450 split 4 ways = 112.50ea
(1 bathroom aprox 1-2 block walk) + flight 130 = 242.50
or total with Driving expense 162.50

x3 nights = 450 split 3 ways = 150.00ea
+ flight 130 = 280.00
or total with Driving expense 200.00

x4 nights = 600 split 4 ways = 150.00ea
+ flight 130 = 280.00
or total with Driving expense 200.00

x4 nights = 600 split 3 ways = 200.00ea
+ flight 130 = 330.00
or total with Driving expense 250.00

Approximate travel cost
Driving $50 each split 4 ways
Flights average 130-150
Meals (leaving on Monday AM)
4 dinners 10-20$ea
2 lunches 5-10$ ea
Meals Low total 50$ high total 100$

 

[raebates]

Good idea, Paulette. I'd rather estimate high than to underestimate and be caught off guard.