The average cost for a meal at a mid-range restaurant is $15 to $20, and for drinks, it is $4 to $5. If you prefer cheaper options like street food, it can cost around $5 to $10 per meal. Therefore, you should expect to spend around $30 to $40 per day on food and drinks, which totals around $210 to $280 for a week.

For a one-week trip to Punta Cana in 2026, your budget depends on whether you choose an "All-Inclusive" resort or a "Boutique/DIY" experience. For an All-Inclusive stay, a mid-range couple should budget approximately $2,500 to $3,500 (excluding flights). This covers a 4-star resort ($250–$350/night), airport transfers ($60), and $500 for "extra" excursions like Saona Island or Coco Bongo. If you prefer a DIY approach (Airbnb and local dining), you could spend as little as $1,200 to $1,500 per week. In this scenario, expect to pay $40–$60 per day for meals at local "comedores" and $80–$120 per night for a nice apartment. Regardless of your style, you should carry at least $300 in small USD bills for tipping—while the Dominican Peso is the official currency, USD is widely accepted and preferred for tips in the tourism sector. Always include a buffer for "tourist taxes" and mandatory medical insurance, which many resorts now require for international guests as part of their 2026 safety and liability protocols.