$200-300 will generally be enough for the duration of your trek, although for longer treks you could carry as much as $400. The amount required in Kathmandu for meals, sightseeing and transport will generally be covered by about $40 a day - please note that on most trips, at least two spare days are spent in Kathmandu. Shopping will vary greatly from person to person. If you are contemplating larger items - carpets, jewelry, etc – you can easily spend $500-$600.

Carry most of your money in traveler’s checks such as American Express or Thomas Cook. Keep a separate record of your check numbers to assist with quick replacement, should you lose them. You can change foreign cash and traveler’s checks at the hotel or bureau de changes dotted around Kathmandu quickly and conveniently.

It is convenient to carry some money in US dollars. Take smaller denomination notes in good condition (not torn). Use this money at airports and at times when you can't or don't want to use local currency. Ideally, it is advisable to exchange as you need, as it is difficult to reconvert your Nepalese currency back to American dollars.

On arrival, we recommend that you wait until you reach your hotel to change money as the bank at the airport is usually very crowded and the exchange rate difference is negligible. When receiving Nepalese currency, always check that none of the notes are TORN, as locals will not accept them. Also, try to ensure when exchanging money that a proportion of your local currency is in small denominations, as in the smaller villages locals are sometimes unable to change 50-100 Rs notes.

Tipping
Tipping is an accepted part of overseas travel. In Kathmandu allow 10-20 Rs per bag for bellboys and porters and please remember that if you allow people to carry your bags - be prepared to tip. The culture of a trek was started in the days of the British Raj. It is accepted that the crew will work hard and provide extra services on the expectation that they will receive tips from the group at the end of the trek. Dave and Bill will advise you in more detail, however, as a rough guide, we suggest that you allow $2-4 for each day that you are with the crew. Tipping is a personal matter and we do not have fixed amounts, nor is it appropriate to include it in the tour cost. In most cases, tipping for the crew is done in local currency, so think about that as you travel near the end of your trip.

Group leaders do not share in these tips. If you wish to tip your Nepali leader, do so separately. In some instances, a gift may be more appropriate.

Security
While on the trek your money and camera should be kept with you at all times. Do not leave them lying around unattended in guesthouses or along the trail. Theft is not a major problem for trekkers, but this is a very poor country and temptation should be avoided. It is best to fit a small lock to your bag as you travel to / from Nepal and on the baggage you leave in Kathmandu.

Airport Taxes
These along with your entry visas (see Documentation) are your responsibility and are not included in your tour costs. The departure tax from Nepal is 1500 Rs. (approx. $25) and from Thailand it is BHT 500 (approx. $15).

Please note that departure tax for both Nepal and Thailand must be paid in local currency. Taxes are subject to change without notice.

Credit Cards
Credit cards can be used to purchase goods at some stores in Kathmandu, however, you may be charged a higher price than if you pay by cash or traveler’s checks. They serve their purpose as "emergency" funds, but are of limited use for small items.

If you use your card anywhere overseas, be sure that you sign only one voucher and do not leave any spaces. Credit cards may also be used to withdraw funds in Nepal, but it can be a time consuming process. There are ATMs in Kathmandu, however, many cards are not valid for use in these machines. Withdrawal is possible from credit cards in these ATMs, however you should not rely on this as your only source of funds.