Guide · Logging an Expense
Logging an Expense
Add expenses in seconds, tag them by category, and attach a location or receipt photo.
- 1
Tap Add Expense
Use the floating + button from any screen. It always opens the same quick-entry sheet, whether you're on the home tab or inside a specific trip.
- 2
Enter amount and category
Type the amount in whatever currency you paid in. Pick a category (food, transport, lodging, shopping, etc.) or create your own custom category if none fit.
- 3
Add a location or photo (optional)
Auto-detect your location or drop a pin manually so the expense shows up on your trip map. Attach a receipt photo for your records.
- 4
Save
The expense is instantly converted to your home currency using the exchange rate for that day, and reflected in your trip's running total and budget.
Tip
Expenses log locally first, so you can add spend with no signal. It syncs automatically once you're back online (Premium offline mode).
Common questions
Can I log an expense with no internet?
Yes. Expenses are written locally first and sync when you are back online, which is the point: you log the tuk-tuk when you pay for it, not when you next find wifi. Offline mode is a Premium feature.
Which currency should I type the amount in?
The one you actually paid in. DollarBuddy converts it to your home currency using that day's rate when you save, so you never do mental arithmetic at the counter.
What if none of the categories fit?
Create your own. Custom categories sit alongside the built-in ones (food, transport, lodging, shopping and the rest) and are yours across every trip.
Can I attach a receipt or a location?
Both, and both are optional. Auto-detect your location or drop a pin by hand so the expense appears on your trip map, and attach a receipt photo for your own records.