In planning mode - how much budget should I keep in mind for Vanuatu - any experiences?
For a good mix of comfort and budget, aim for $120 USD a day in Vanuatu. We rented a car from a local company to explore Efate, which was pricey but gave us freedom. Visiting places like Eton Beach or Mele Cascades has an entry fee, so those costs add up quickly. The local currency is the Vatu, but Australian Dollars are also widely accepted. Just keep in mind that outside of Port Vila and Luganville, cash is essential for everything.
My trip to Vanuatu was more of a splurge. I booked a package that included my resort stay at Iririki Island Resort & Spa and some tours. A daily budget of $250+ USD is needed for this kind of trip. Taxis are everywhere in Port Vila but can be expensive, so agree on the fare upfront. The best thing is to use a travel card that offers good exchange rates as some places have fees for using credit cards.
Vanuatu can be done on a budget if you're smart. I'd say $75 USD per day is achievable for a backpacker. I stayed in a dorm at a place called Tropicana Motel & Backpackers in Port Vila and cooked a lot of my own food. Public transport is cheap; the local buses are mini-vans with a B on the license plate and rides around Port Vila are about 150 VUV. Be aware that credit card acceptance is limited outside of the main tourist areas.
A realistic budget for Vanuatu is around $150 USD a day per person. That's a good amount for staying in a guesthouse, eating a mix of local market food and restaurant meals, and doing some activities like a tour to the Blue Lagoon or a trip to a volcano. Inter-island flights are the biggest expense, easily costing $100+ each. I recommend bringing a mix of Australian dollars and getting some local Vatu (VUV) from an ATM when you arrive.