You don’t need to empty your savings account to travel the world. If you’re a college student on a budget, if your family can only afford one vacation this year or if you have an eye for amazing deals, there are far-off places where your dollars will stretch. The trick is not just finding cheap flights — it’s finding places where accommodation, food, transportation and activities won’t break the bank. Below are some of the most budget-friendly places to visit that offer a world of adventures and thrills without burning a hole in your pocket.
Why Budget Travel Is About To Become Easier Than Ever
Before we jump into individual destinations, it’s worth noting that budget travel is a lot more feasible these days. The rise of budget airlines, hostels that have outgrown their youthful backpacker image and the lean-to-run airlift services has also seen low-cost accommodation options proliferate. And many countries with lower costs of living provide experiences that are every bit as rich as in more expensive ones.
The secret is to head for places where the local cost of living is relatively low, so your home currency goes a lot further. Often, you can get luxury experiences at budget prices just by picking the right spot to do it.
Five Best Value Destinations Around the World
Vietnam: Southeast Asia’s Best Value
Vietnam is among the most inexpensive countries to visit in Southeast Asia year-round. Between the frantic streets of Hanoi, the otherworldly seascape of Ha Long Bay, glamorous but affordable Da Nang, and the fast-growing metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon as it is still known to most everybody — Vietnam’s got variety at bargain prices.
What Makes It Affordable:
- Street food meals cost under $1-3
- Guesthouse rooms (Fan) for comfortable stay ($10-20 per night)
- Local trains and buses within a country are dirt cheap
- Attractions are not costly to go have a look inside
Breakfast for a bowl of hot pho could set you back only $1.50 or so, and all but the most lavish restaurant meals are unlikely to run over $5. Transportation is also cheap as shit—you can bus or train from the top of the country to the bottom for under $50. Its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty and friendly locals makes it an ideal getaway for the traveler who seek adventure without needing to break the bank.
Portugal: Europe’s Hidden Gem
Western Europe is known for its costliness, but Portugal is very reasonably priced. Here in this lovely country you’ll find beautiful beaches, historic cities, great food and sunshine — all at a price that will not actually scare you.
Budget Breakdown:
- Hostels and budget hotels: $15-35/night
- Restaurant meals: $8-15
- Mass transit: Very cheap, very effective
- Wine: Dirt Cheap (Yes, we have been paying $3-5 a bottle)
Lisbon and Porto are the stars, but smaller cities such as Coimbra or coastal towns in the Algarve region can be even better value. You can eat fresh seafood, explore castles that are centuries old and relax on unspoiled beaches without breaking the bank. Portugal also has some free or low-cost attractions; many museums have free entry on Sundays, and there are plenty of other ways to for tourists to save money.
Mexico: Culture and Beaches Along the Coast on a Budget
Mexico is a budget traveler’s dream, especially if you venture beyond expensive resort areas. The value is remarkable here, from street tacos to beachfront digs.
Money-Saving Tips:
- Avoid touristy areas such as Cancun resorts
- Eat at local taquerías versus tourist restaurants
- Travel like a local and take the camiones instead of tourist shuttles
- Go to free public beaches, not resort places
Cities like Oaxaca, Guanajuato and Mérida are teeming with rich cultural experiences at local prices. Cheap lodging for under $15, a meal for $3-5 and the gate to some of the world’s best archaeological site for dirt cheap. Pay the fraction and dial down some even if you make it to Tulum. Great surf and beach vibes town of Puerto Escondido on the coast.
Indonesia: Island Paradise for Less
Tropical paradises on the cheap From Indonesia (Bali and Java are ideal) you can experience tropical paradise without that pesky exchange rate. Bali has gotten touristy in recent years, but it’s still inexpensive if you know where to look.
Cost Overview:
- Budget accommodation: $8-20 per night
- Local meals: $2-5
- Scooter rental: $3-5 per day
- Temple entrance fees: $1-3
Outside of Bali, the lesser-frequented islands including Lombok, Flores and Sumatra represent even better value. You can stay in rudimentary beachfront bungalows, eat fresh tropical fruit and local dishes for pennies, and explore ancient temples and stunning volcanoes. The local transport is extremely cheap (bemos and public buses) just not always a comfortable ride.
Greece: Affordable Mediterranean Escape
Greece can be a budget-friendly destination (you might be surprised!), especially if you go during shoulder season and avoid the most trafficked islands, such as Santorini and Mykonos.
Budget-Friendly Strategies:
- Come in shoulder season (April-May or September-October)
- Hop onto less-visited islands such as Naxos, Paros or Crete
- Eat at tavernas not in tourist areas
- Avoid flying between islands, take ferries instead
Athens is history at bargain prices, with a lot of the city’s ancient sites conveniently accessible with one ticket. You can find affordable lodging on Greek islands such as Crete and Rhodes ($20-40 per night) and you’ll eat fresh greek salads, souvlaki, and gyros for $5-8. Greece is perhaps unbeatable for the combination of history, great food and beautiful beaches.
Thailand: The Classic Backpacker Haven
Thailand has been a budget travel favorite for decades, and with good reason. Even with increasing tourism, the country’s cost of living stays remarkably low, particularly in the north and on smaller islands.
Daily Budget Estimate:
- Accommodation: $8-25 per night
- Food: $5-10 per day
- Transportation: Very cheap local options
- Activities: The free beaches, the cheap cooking classes, and the budget-friendly day trips
Bangkok is the heartbeat of city life, Chiang Mai combines mountain serenity and cultural experiences, and islands to the south offer beach paradise. Street food is insanely good, safe and less than $2 per meal. Between cities, you can ride overnight trains for $15-$30 (it saves on accommodation and it gets you where you need to go).
For more travel inspiration and flight deals, visit Call to Flights.
Poland: Eastern European Value
And Poland offers rich history, attractive architecture, and hearty food at prices that most western European travelers will find a breath of fresh air.
What You’ll Pay:
- Hotel rooms: $25-45 per night
- Restaurant meals: $6-12
- Beer: $2-3
- Museum entries: $3-8
Cities such as Kraków and Warsaw have beautiful old towns, historic landmarks and a party scene. There’s cheap, filling food — pierogi, kielbasa and hearty stews — to be had. Public transportation is cheap and efficient, and walking around in most cities is a breeze.
Nicaragua: Central America’s Best Deal
Nicaragua has all of the adventure that Costa Rica offers, for a tiny fraction of the price. This Central American country offers the volcanoes, colonial cities, lakes and beaches of its neighbours — and for once without the tourist hordes or the exorbitant prices.
Budget Benefits:
- Accommodation: $10-25 per night
- Local meals: $3-6
- Bus travel: Extremely cheap
- Things to do: Volcano boarding, kayaking, all cheap hikes
Granada and León are gorgeous colonial cities, great for exploring on foot. You can volcano board down Cerro Negro for about $30, surf uncrowded beaches or kayak through volcanic lagoons. Local transport by “chicken bus” runs only a couple of dollars and offers you an authentic cultural experience in addition to swift passage.
Comparison Table: Daily Budget Estimates
| Destination | Accommodation | Food (3 meals) | Local Transport | Total Daily Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vietnam | $12-20 | $5-10 | $2-5 | $19-35 |
| Portugal | $20-35 | $15-25 | $3-6 | $38-66 |
| Mexico | $10-25 | $5-12 | $2-5 | $17-42 |
| Indonesia | $8-20 | $6-15 | $2-8 | $16-43 |
| Greece | $20-40 | $12-25 | $3-8 | $35-73 |
| Thailand | $8-25 | $5-10 | $2-8 | $15-43 |
| Poland | $25-45 | $12-25 | $3-6 | $40-76 |
| Nicaragua | $10-25 | $9-18 | $2-5 | $21-48 |
Note: These are rough estimations for budget-conscious travelers. Real costs will depend on lifestyle and where (and how) you spend your time.
Smart Moves to Save Even More Money
Book Flights Strategically
The only way you can afford to go there is if you fly in without blowing your budget on airfare. Employ airfare comparison sites, be flexible with your dates and look into flying into less-travelled airports. Flights on Tuesday and Wednesday are generally the least expensive, while booking six to eight weeks ahead will net you the best prices for international travel.
Embrace Local Transportation
Leave the tourist shuttles and airport cabs behind. Get comfortable with local bus, train and ride-sharing apps. Not only are you saving money, but experiencing the real deal. In some budget destinations, a taxi ride to tourists might be $20 — and the local bus, only $2.
Eat Like a Local
Tourist restaurants are the quickest way to blow your budget. Everything’s under one roof here — food, wine, drinks and the boisterous locals. Street food in Asia, neighborhood markets in Europe and family-run spots in Latin America can deliver the best value as well as some of the most authentic flavors.
Stay in Alternative Accommodations
Hotels aren’t your only option. Hostels have come a long way from offering only bunk beds — many now offer private rooms with en suite bathrooms at budget rates. Guest houses, homestays and vacation rentals can offer better value and a more authentic experience than chain hotels.
Travel During Off-Peak Times
Visiting during shoulder season (the time between high and low seasons) can save you 30 to 50%. Accommodation is cheaper, lines at attractions are shorter, service is better and the encounters with fewer tourists around are more authentic.
Regional Cost Comparison
Southeast Asia vs. Europe
As a rule, Southeast Asian destinations tend to see some of the lowest prices anywhere in the world. When you are in countries such as Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia anything between $20-30 a day is sufficient to live comfortably. Eastern Europe (Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic) is about the best value in Europe at $40-70/day if you stay out of major cities, while Western Europe can be as high as $80-150 but also has many budget options.
Latin America vs. North America
Latin countries like Mexico, Nicaragua and Guatemala are a lot less expensive than America or Canada as well. In Central America, you can travel for $30 ($50 in a bit more comfort) per day; it’s double that in North America ($100-150 per day of travel).
Africa and the Middle East
Places such as Morocco, Egypt and Jordan represent good value although not that cheap, after all it’s still the Middle East. Budget $35-60 per day. Prices from other southern African countries differ strongly – South Africa is quite palm-friendly while in Zimbabwe and Zambia can be high because there tourism infrastructure is based on luxury tourism.
What to Expect When Traveling on a Budget
It’s Not All About Deprivation
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean forgoing certain conveniences. Just about anywhere that’s affordable, you can find yourself in a clean and comfortable guest lodge with great food and fun activities for less than it costs to survive at a basic level in an expensive city like London or New York.
Safety Considerations
Affordable doesn’t mean dangerous. Most budget-friendly countries are relatively safe for travel. But as always, do your research on individual areas, listen to local advice and use common sense (eg don’t flash about expensive things and stay alert).
Cultural Experiences Are Often Free
Some of life’s best travel experiences are free — exploring historic districts, watching sunsets, hiking nature trails, touring free museums and meeting locals. BTW: Budget destinations are often the most culturally immersive places, more so than pricier resort areas.
Sample Weekly Budget Breakdown: Thailand
Here’s what a week in Thailand could cost for one budget traveler:
Accommodation (7 nights): $70-140
Cheap rooms in guesthouse or hostel facilities
Food (21 meals): $60-105
Street food and mom-and-pop joints Oddball mix of street eats and humble restaurants
Local Transportation: $20-40
Tuk-tuks, songthaews, local buses
Activities & Attractions: $50-100
Temple tour, cooking class, massage, boat tour
Miscellaneous: $20-40
SIM card, toiletries, souvenirs
Weekly Total: $220-425
This is a budget that lets one travel easily, without completely roughing it up with scarce food and breakouts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Money Do I Need for a Month of Travel?
This is all very location-dependent. In Southeast Asia, you could get by on $600-900 per month. In Eastern Europe, they are expected to pay $1,200 to $1,800 a month. In Western Europe or North America a budget traveler would spend $2,500-3,500 monthly. These estimates include lodging, meals, on-ground transportation and basic activities but not international airfare.
Is it alright to travel alone to less expensive places?
Numerous budget destinations are safe for solo travelers, with safety determined more by individual location rather than cost. Do your homework and read recent traveler reviews, take normal safety measures and trust your instincts. Sign up for online travel forums to receive safety updates from fellow recent visitors.
Can families travel on the cheap, or is it solely the realm of young backpackers?
You definitely can travel on the cheap with a family. There are plenty of budget-friendly places that families can enjoy, plus you’re likely to get more for your money if you stay in family-sized accommodation (think vacation rentals) rather than a hotel room. Kids generally eat free or at reduced cost, and many attractions have family discounts. Nations such as Mexico, Portugal and Thailand are especially friendly to families — and budget-friendly.
What continent is the cheapest to travel?
Southeast Asia is usually where you’ll find the cheapest prices for people from around the world. In Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Indonesia your money will go the furthest. Second is Central America and then areas of Eastern Europe and some African countries.
How do I steer clear of tourist traps in low-cost destinations?
Walk a couple of blocks from touristy parts, ask the locals, eat where the locals do and take public transportation instead of tourists’ shuttles. Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, and do not be afraid to get off the beaten track. Online travel forums and blogs are full of great advice to find authentically and affordably.
Do budget trips require travel insurance?
Yes, absolutely! No matter how much money you have for your trip, you need travel insurance. Medical emergencies abroad can be extremely costly, and decent travel insurance costs a tiny fraction of just one hospital visit. Budget travelers, in particular, need this cushion to fall back on because you probably won’t have a lot of extra money lying around to see you through unexpected expenses.
For comprehensive travel insurance options, make sure to compare policies before your trip.
Can I work while traveling in order to stretch my resources?
Many frugal travelers achieve this by teaching English, working in hostels, freelancing online or taking up seasonal work. But make sure to review research visa requirements thoroughly, as work without proper authorization can lead to deportation and bans from returning. Some countries also grant working holiday visas to young travelers from certain countries.
However, are budget destinations unattractive compared to expensive ones?
Not at all! Some of the world’s best budget destinations include incredibly exotic, far-off places like Mongolia and Kyrgyzstan, which are also full of historical interest. Cheap destinations typically also offer more authentic experiences as they are less touristy and commercial than pricier hotspots.
Final Opinion: Making plans now for an affordable adventure
The world is much more accessible than one might think. The secret to not going into debt? Pick cheap destinations and travel smart, you can have amazing experiences without breaking the bank. What are your interests? temples in Southeast Asia, beaches in Central America, Eastern European history or perhaps the culture of budget-friendly Mediterranean countries? There’s an affordable destination for even that.
Keep in mind that budget travel is not purely about finding the cheapest option for everything; it’s about getting good value from your travels. Yes, even on a budget trip to far-flung lands. The point is to ‘travel meaningfully in your budget’ not ‘deprive yourself of real experiences’.
Begin your dreams of travel to one of the following places, make up a rough budget and start putting money aside. The memories you make, the culture you absorb is one-of-a-kind no matter how little you spend getting there. Budget travel unlocks doors to experience the world in ways that luxurious resort holidays never could. So pack your bags, download those maps, and prepare to see how much lower — and farther — your money can take you in this fascinating, beautiful and downright cheap world.
