On an international trip, the carrier is responsible for your reasonable out-of-pocket expenses. There is no "allowance" and it is a relatively simple DOT complaint (under the Montreal Convention) so long as you have properly documented every expense. But, remember that any interim reimbursements come off the total maximum in the event that the bag is lost or destroyed.
Best for 7-10 day trips is not to check bags. Second best is to have decent travel insurance.