cheap places to travel worldwide

21 Cheap Places to Travel in 2024

By Caitlin Morton

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There are many factors to consider when planning a vacation, from finding cheap places to travel and the safety of your intended destination to hotel options . But like it or not, there’s one thing that influences our travel decisions more than anything else: money. All those resort fees, plane tickets , and life-changing meals add up pretty quickly—so at the end of the day, we really want to prioritize places where our greenbacks have the most spending power.

We did a little digging to find the countries where the U.S. dollar goes the furthest, based on current exchange rates. And while our fickle global economy means those rates can change at any time, certain places have consistently offered more bang for our buck over the years—and, fingers crossed, they should stay that way well into 2024 .

Without further ado, here are 21 of the best cheap places to travel around the world.

Budapest, Hungary

1 USD = 351.21 HUF

Hungary’s favorable economy is great news for anyone planning a trip to Budapest , where a growing scene of Michelin-starred restaurants and high-tech spas are calling to us from across the globe. The city just celebrated its 150th anniversary in November 2023, which means there are even more reasons to visit during the next calendar year, including the newly reopened Chain Bridge and the brand-new House of Music Hungary . Be sure to book a room at the art deco W Budapest —formerly a palace and on a UNESCO World Heritage-listed street—which opened in July 2023 opposite the Hungarian State Opera.

South Korea

1 USD = 1,301.45 KRW

While other travelers head to the popular tourist destinations of Seoul , Busan, and Jeju Island, we have our eyes set on another South Korean city:  Mokpo , located in the Jeolla region at the southern tip of the peninsula. The port city offers some of the most interesting dining in the country, and specialty dishes like  hongeo (a naturally fermented, extremely pungent skate-fish dish) attract food lovers from around the world.

1 USD = 17.22 MXN

Mexico is consistently one of our favorite places to travel on a budget. In Mexico City , with a street food culture rivaled only by its forward-looking restaurant scene, you’ll be spending most of your money on eats. But make sure to leave some bucks to visit all the cultural wonders the city has to offer, starting with the iconic Museo Jumex . If you’re looking to go a little farther afield, head to Jalisco to see tequila being made at the source, or Isla Holbox for a sleepy beach scene.

An eagle hunter riding near the Altai Mountains in Mongolia.

1 USD = 3,449.69 MNT

We’ve long been fans of Mongolia for its seemingly limitless expanses and adventure camps—and the fact that travel here costs as little as $75 per day (including accommodations). The country is on a mission to lure even more travelers into its borders in 2024, with upcoming initiatives like its first-ever direct US flight and visa-free travel for dozens of nationalities. You can also expect even more offbeat cultural experiences next year: Local operator Breanna Wilson is expanding her 2024 tours to include a digital nomad week, a women-only retreat in Orkhon Valley, and a three-day archery training session.

1 USD = 24,275.00 VND

Plenty of countries in Southeast Asia are great deals for dollar carriers right now, but we recommend a trip to Vietnam—in part because of the steadily increasing exchange rate, but mostly for the country’s mind-blowing beauty. Hanoi is arguably the most romantic city in the region, but don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten track during your next visit: Places like  Ninh Van Bay and Phú Quốc island have pristine beaches and intimate resorts you won’t find in the more touristed areas.

1 USD = 4.94 BRL

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

Like much of South America, Brazil is a good place to visit if you don’t want to break the bank. But the fact that a dollar gets you nearly five Brazilian reals means you can get even better value than usual. Rio de Janeiro is the most obvious place to spend time and money, with incredible restaurants—like  Lasai , a 2023 Hot List winner—just steps away from some of the world’s  best beaches . But don't forget to visit  São Paulo , too, where a younger generation has introduced hip galleries, museums, and bars to several long-neglected neighborhoods.

South Africa

1 USD = 18.30 ZAR

The value of the South African rand has fluctuated a lot over the past few years, but we’re pretty happy with where it is today. (To compare, one U.S. dollar only got you 8.57 ZAR 10 years ago.) Stretch those bucks on the  Test Kitchen ’s 21-course tasting menu in Cape Town , then head into the wilderness at  Singita Castleton Lodge in the Sabi Sand game reserve.

Traditional stilt fishermen in Sri Lanka

1 USD = 327.31 SLR

The Sri Lankan rupee has slowly gotten more and more favorable over the past couple of decades, but it completely skyrocketed starting a couple of years ago (a dollar converted to 200 SLR in February 2022, and now look where we are). We’re more excited than ever to explore this incredible island nation, where you can see leafy tea plantations, Buddhist temples, golden beaches, and 200-mile hiking trails in one memorable trip.

1 USD = 525.96 CRC

The Costa Rican colón has depreciated a bit in recent months, but it remains favorable for US travelers. Then there’s the fact that the country’s best asset (i.e. its natural beauty) is mostly free to enjoy. From trekking through the tropical cloud forests in the mountains of Alajuela to surfing off the coast of Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica is one of the world’s best countries for outdoor adventure. (And the  hotels are pretty great , too.)

Philippines

1 USD = 55.89 PHP

We’re never not dreaming about island hopping in the Phillippines. It’s hard to believe that places like Palawan and Siargao are so economically accessible, given that they are some of the most beautiful places on the planet. Even five-star resorts like  Shangri-La Boracay can be reserved for under $350 per night, which is all the incentive we need to book a trip right now.

1 USD = 4,580 MGA

For your next tropical island vacation, skip pricey, popular locations like the Maldives and Bora Bora for inexpensive Madagascar—an Indian Ocean treasure filled with breathtaking rainforests and lemur-filled national parks. Plan your visit around the opening of Namoroka Tsingy Exploration Camp ( scheduled for mid-2024 ), which will feature seven luxury safari tents inside the essentially unvisited Namoroka National Park. Alternately, swing by the island nation as part of a cruise itinerary: Luxe cruise lines like Silversea , Lindblad , Swan Hellenic , and Seabourne have all added the country as a port of call on new voyages.

Cairo, Egypt.

1 USD = 30.93 EGP

Following in the footsteps of pharaohs in Egypt feels like it should be expensive, but the Egyptian pound has skyrocketed this year—that means touring the Pyramids, cruising the Nile, and exploring Cairo has never been more affordable. We’re excited to check out relatively new openings, like St. Regis Cairo and the beach villas at Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria . And we’ve been anxiously awaiting the official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum for years now, but it looks like it might actually happen in 2024.

1 USD = 4.67 MYR

Your cash will stretch far in Malaysia, especially if you fill up on street food and explore cities like Kuala Lumpur on foot. It’s also inexpensive (or in some cases, free) to visit the country’s pristine beaches, limestone caves, and some of the most beautiful tea plantations. If you’re ready and willing to shell out the big bucks, however, we highly recommend shacking up at  The Datai Langkawi —it’s definitely expensive but wholly worth it.

1 USD = 83.04 INR

India has always been a cheap travel destination; now that you can get 83 rupees to the dollar, however, the country is more affordable than ever. Hotels run the gamut from $60-per-night bungalows to pricy Oberoi and Six Senses outposts, plus hundreds of options in between. But as long as you don’t hole up in your resort the entire time, you can visit plenty of attractions and dine at local restaurants on an extremely tight budget.

1 USD = 107.45 RSD

Belgrade continues to emerge as one of Europe’s most exciting cultural epicenters, but it’s massively less expensive than, say, Paris or Berlin (at least for now). It’s relatively easy to find hotels under $100, though accommodations aren’t all that important when you spend all night dancing in clubs around the city. But you will want to get some rest to explore Belgrade’s wealth of museums and contemporary art installations, many of which just opened in the  past few years .

Ohrid, North Macedonia

North Macedonia

1 USD = 56.44 MKD

Perhaps it’s because the coastal countries get all the attention, but North Macedonia remains one of the most  criminally underrated (and therefore affordable) countries in Europe. The landlocked nation is a sleeper hit for those in the know, especially if you head to the charming city of Ohrid. It has all the cobbled streets and quaint churches one would expect from a European town, with the added advantage of being right on the shores of the incredibly gorgeous and biodiverse Lake Ohrid.

1 USD = 132.92 NPR

Nepal is one of the cheapest countries to visit for all travelers, but the U.S. dollar is particularly strong there right now. Most people immediately associate Nepal with Mt. Everest, but the tiny nation has much more to offer than bucket-list climbs. Kathmandu is overwhelming at first, but it hides some great hotels and museums once you start digging. Bhaktapur and Patan—both close by in the Kathmandu Valley—are a bit more low-key but still packed with culture.

1 USD = 66.99 GMD

It may be continental Africa’s smallest country but don’t you dare overlook the Gambia . The ultra-affordable nation has long been a coveted spot for wildlife enthusiasts, but it’s starting to rise in the ranks as both a  food destination and luxury cruise  port of call .

1 USD = 15,556.65 IDR

Despite the post- Eat, Pray, Love influx of tourists, Indonesia remains an affordable vacation spot overall. While millions of people flock to Bali (where resort prices are steep in response), you can enjoy a much cheaper and more peaceful trip on  the islands of Sumba and Lombok. And don’t forget about Jakarta, where a solid day includes filling up on greasy noodles and  nasi goreng gila  from makeshift street stalls—all for just a couple of US bucks.

Beach near Ksamil, Albania.

1 USD = 93.95 ALL

Albania is much less expensive than other European countries—and it’s a bit under the radar as a tourist destination, which means there’s still a chance to visit before the word gets out and the crowds descend. One of the most enticing reasons to plan a trip is the food: Picture tables filled with rosemary-scented lamb, tart mountain cheeses, blackened sea bass, and bottles of fruit juices. In Tirana, book a stay at Agroturizëm Gjepali , a restaurant turned hotel with river views and doubles starting at just $70.

1 USD = 12,375.00 UZS

Uzbekistan is still on the up-and-up when it comes to foreign travel, which makes it one of the most exciting and affordable destinations in Central Asia. The major cities are filled with both intricate mosques and brutalist monuments—all free to explore—and you’ll be hard-pressed to spend more than $5 per meal at restaurants. There aren’t too many name-brand hotels set up yet, but even places like the Hyatt Regency Tashkent have nightly rates below $170.

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100 Cheapest Places to Travel in the World

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Want to find the cheapest places to travel? You’re in the right spot.

Welcome to our annual report on the world’s most affordable travel destinations! We’ve updated our rankings for 2022, and we even have a new number one…but we’ll get to that in a bit!

Finding cheap vacation ideas can be frustrating. Getting the best travel deals typically takes hours of time-consuming research – including comparing hotels,  finding cheap flights , and considering your meal options. And this is  after  you’ve spent weeks researching where to go.

So, we’ve taken the top 100 travel destinations in the world and ranked them according to price. You’re welcome.

Before we get started, though, don’t forget to grab our free travel checklist! It’s a great tool to help you get organized and save money on your next big trip. Just click the button below to get it now. (You’re welcome again!)

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #1-#10

Without further ado, here’s our list of the cheapest places to travel in the world for 2022.

1) Hanoi, Vietnam

Average Cost: $19.75/day

For the first time ever, Hanoi has managed to grab the top spot on our list of cheap places to travel. As the capital of Vietnam, the city is a cultural hub full of museums and important places of interest. The hectic Old Quarter is definitely something you don’t want to miss. Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake are also popular spots for tourists.

2) Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Average Cost: $19.83/day

Known as Saigon before the Vietnam War, Ho Chi Minh City is home to a vibrant arts scene and loads of French colonial architecture. Many visitors enjoy spending time in the energetic Ben Thanh Market, where street vendors serve up local flavors at a price that can fit inside anyone’s budget. Those seeking quieter spaces will enjoy wandering through the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels built by the Viet Cong during the war that span thousands of miles. It’s also worth noting that Ho Chi Minh City ranks in the top 6 cheapest places to travel for food and beverage prices, while it comes in at #2 for the cheapest places to stay.

3) Pattaya, Thailand

Average Cost: $27.51/day

Sure, there are plenty of cultural activities for visitors to enjoy in Pattaya, Thailand. However, what people really come here for is the beach. Situated on the Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya’s is home to some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll find anywhere. The area is also famous for its lively nightlife and excellent shopping. Best of all, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to stay here. Pattaya ranks 4th on our list for the cheapest places to stay and 11th in daily food costs.

4) Phuket, Thailand

Average Cost: $28.34/day

Do you love cheap vacation spots that are home to beautiful mountains, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches? Traveling to Phuket, Thailand may be for you. Although some luxury travel options are available, one of the best things about this island is that you don’t have to mortgage the house to stay here. There are plenty of 3 and 4-star accommodations from which to choose. In fact, of all the travel destinations we’ve surveyed, Phuket ranks #1 for cheapest hotel costs. As with other places in Thailand, the nightlife here won’t disappoint you either.

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5) Samui, Thailand

Average Cost: $29.18/day

Samui, Thailand continues the run for Thailand and is also the first of 20 new destinations to make our list. The second largest island in Thailand, Samui (a.k.a. “Ko Samui”) has become a bustling tourist destination. Resorts, bungalows, and private villas, grace the palm-lined beaches. Visitors should also check out the famous Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai Temple.

6) Bangkok, Thailand

Average Cost: $30.06/day

Bangkok ranks as the cheapest place to eat on our survey. That, in combination with its affordable hotels, helps the city land solidly inside our top ten for this year. The relatively high cost of beverages is the only thing keeping it from moving higher. Renowned for its exciting nightlife and entertainment, Bangkok isn’t just a party town. While you’re there, don’t miss out on the city’s amazing religious sites, including the Wat Phra Kaew – the most sacred Buddhist Temple in Thailand. There’s also the Grand Palace, the Wat Arun Temple, and some serious shopping for you to enjoy.

7) Krabi, Thailand

Average Cost: $31.05/day

You know those beautiful photos of the jagged limestone cliffs you see on Instagram? Most of those are pictures of Thailand, and many of them come from Krabi province. Located just across the bay from Phuket, Krabi is a super cheap vacation idea. While it may cost a few bucks to get over there, Krabi ranks in the top 10 for both meals and accomodations. With those types of prices, Krabi has definitely been added to our bucket list!

8) Chiang Mai, Thailand

Average Cost: $31.42/day

Chiang Mai is one of the most interesting places to travel in Thailand, and one of the world’s best bargain vacations. Chiang Mai offers the 5th cheapest food prices and the 9th most affordable accomodations of any destination on our list. Located in the mountains of northern Thailand, the city is home to countless Buddhist temples and sacred religious sites. Nature and wildlife tours are also popular excursions in Chiang Mai.

9) Delhi, India

Average Cost: $36.70/day

Delhi scores high marks for its low prices across the board, which helps keep it in the top 10 on our list of the world’s cheapest places to travel. With an estimated 30.7 million inhabitants living in the metropolitan area, the city is also huge. Delhi is home to a ridiculous amount of important sacred and religious sites. At just 3.5 hours away by car, it’s also a decent starting point to explore the Taj Mahal. Be sure to check out the Chandni Chowk bazaar and the Red Fort as well.

10) Cusco, Peru

Average Cost: $37.24/day

Rounding our top 10 cheapest destinations in the world is Cusco, Peru. A newcomer to our list, Cusco also snags the distinction of being the cheapest place to travel in South America. This mountain town was once the capital of the Incan Empire and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The city features well-preserved archeological sites as well as some great examples of Spanish colonial architecture.

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #11-#20

11) istanbul, turkey.

Average Cost: $41.42/day

For more than 2,000 years, Istanbul has straddled the continents of Europe and Asia, making it one of the most important and culturally rich cities in the world. It is literally the point on the map where east and west collide. Thankfully, it is still one of the cheapest places to visit, too. Prices for hotels, food, and beverages all rank within the top 20 of our list.

12) Antalya, Turkey

Average Cost: $43.93/day

Moving from the city to the beach, Antalya is a Turkish resort city located on the country’s Mediterranean coast. It’s also one of the cheapest vacation spots in the world. Known for its beaches and Old Harbor, the city serves as the gateway to Turkey’s “Turquoise Coast,” named for the beautiful blue waters that are found there. But, beaches aren’t the only thing that Antalya has going for it. The area is home to museums, ancient Roman ruins, and a variety of waterfalls that give Antalya a certain splash appeal.

13) Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt

Average Cost: $46.20/day

Sharm El-Sheik is an Egyptian resort town located on the Siani Peninsula and sits directly on the Red Sea. The inviting sandy beaches and clear waters make this a great spot to kick back and relax. If you’re more adventurous, get up close and personal with a diverse aray of sealife wile enjoying a diving trip to Ras Muhammad National Park. When you’re done, be sure to grab a drink and a bite to eat while strolling along the promenade at Naama Bay.

14) Cairo, Egypt

Average Cost: $46.70/day

If checking out some ancient Egyptian ruins is more your speed, Cairo may be the place for you. Luckily, if you enjoy budget travel, it still ranks as one of the cheapest places to travel in the world. While you’ll want to visit Tahrir Square and several of the city’s museums and mosques, Cario’s biggest tourist attraction is the nearby location of Giza – home of both the Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx.

15) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Average Cost: $47.47/day

Known throughout the world for its incredible beaches and nightlife, Rio de Janeiro is also one of the most affordable places to visit. Lucky for tourists, the pandemic appears to have made things even cheaper. Food prices have dropped in Rio, moving from the middle of the pack pre-pandemic to the top 25 today. Hotels have also gotten cheaper, ranking inside the top 20, while Rio ranks a stellar #9 for beverage prices. In addition to visiting Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, you’ll want to check out the famous “Christ the Redeemer” statue towering over the city from the mountains above. While attending the city’s Carnival festival (the world’s largest) may be on your bucket list, remember that prices during this time of year are significantly more expensive.

16) St. Petersburg, Russia

Average Cost: $48.34/day

Serving as its capital for more than 200 years, St. Petersburg is one of the best places to travel in Russia. The city has a more European feel than other cities in the country, and that goes beyond just the architecture. St. Petersburg is filled with dozens of museums, churches, and historic sites. Prices for hotels in St. Petersburg are also the cheapest of any European city you’ll find on our list. Coming in as the 5th cheapest city for hotels is the main reason St. Petersburg tops our list as the cheapest European city to visit in 2022.

17) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Average Cost: $50.76/day

Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia and one of the most visited cities in the world. The city itself is instantly recognizable because of the Petronas Towers – the tallest twin skyscrapers in the world. Although Kuala Lumpur has plenty of notable sites, touring the Batu Caves makes for a great day trip outside the city.

18) Mexico City, Mexico

Average Cost: $52.26/day

Mexico City is one of the largest cities in the world, and – by our numbers – the cheapest place to travel in North America. With world-class museums, incredible architecture, and historical sites, Mexico City is a religious and cultural mecca that deserves a spot on your budget travel destinations list. While you’re there, take a day trip to the famed Aztec temple Teotihuacan – known as the “Pyramid of the Sun.” If you’re traveling with the kids, a stop by Six Flags Mexico may also be in order.

19) Buenos Aires, Argentina

Average Cost: $53.18/day

Continuing it’s rise in both popularity and our rankings, Buenos Aires jumped inside the top 20 on our list of cheapest places to visit. Tourists will find Buenos Aires to be one of South America’s most cosmopolitan areas. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Casa Rosada, Argentina’s famous presidential palace. The Teatro Colon, a 2,500 seat opera house, is also worth a visit.

20) Zhuhai, China

Average Cost: $54.25/day

Neighboring Macau, but significantly less expensive, is the thoroughly modern Chinese city of Zhuhai. While Macau offers more adult-themed entertainment (like casinos), Zhuhai can be considered more family friendly. In addition to golf courses and parks, the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is one of the most popular attractions here. Thankfully, adults can still take advantage of the sites in nearby Macau but at a fraction of the cost.

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #21-#30

21) lima, peru.

Average Cost: $55.35/day

As the capital of Peru, Lima is the nation’s largest city. Hotel prices in Lima rank inside the top 40. However, food and beverage prices speak to every budget traveler’s heart – ranking 14th and 24th, respectively. While spending time in Lima’s well-preserved town center is enjoyable, taking a trip to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu is a must while in Peru.

22) Hurghada, Egypt

Average Cost: $55.79/day

Hurghada is the third Egyptian destination to make our top 25 cheapest places to travel. Located on the Red Sea, Hurghada’s sandy beaches occupy roughly 25 miles of coastline. Still, beaches and scuba diving isn’t all the city has to offer. This resort town is also known for its restaurants, nightclub scene, and even it’s old town known as El Dahar.

23) Beijing, China

Average Cost: $59.41/day

For 2022, Beijing moves up 9 spots to #23 on our list of cheap places to travel. Although the city is roughly 3,000 years old, the Chinese capital offers an excellent blend of ancient and modern sites. Inside Beijing, visiting the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square are a must. You should also be sure to make the 1.5 hour drive to the Great Wall of China while you’re there. Don’t miss it.

24) Cancun, Mexico

Average Cost: $59.76/day

Warm weather? Check. Beautiful sandy beaches? Check. Fantastic nightlife? Cancun has it all. Even better, it is one of the cheapest places to travel in North America. While you can find super-cheap hotels, if you want to stay in the hotel zone along the beach (and you definitely do), you’ll end up paying significantly more. Still, that’s right in line with most hotels throughout North America and Europe. Meals here still rank #45 overall, and prices for an adult beverage rank just outside the top 25 of all the destinations listed here. So, if you’re looking for cheap beach vacations, Cancun should be near the top of your list.

>>Related:  Cancun Travel Guide

25) Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Average Cost: $60.43/day

Mecca is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and is Islam’s holiest site. Millions of muslims descend upon the city each year during the Hajj pilgrimage, making their way to the Kaaba – the most sacred shrine in all of Islam. Be aware that only muslims are allowed to enter this sacred city. Non-muslims could be fined or deported for trying to pass through.

26) Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Average Cost: $61.66/day

Located south of Cancun on the Yucatan Peninsula, Playa del Carmen is the crown jewel of Mexico’s Riviera Maya region. Famous for its incredible sandy beaches and thriving coral reefs, this exciting city is more than a simple beach town. Lively 5th Avenue and the city’s close proximity to several Mayan archeologial sites makes Playa del Carmen a great and cheap vacation destination for almost any type of traveler.

>>Related: Playa del Carmen Travel Guide

27) Osaka, Japan

Average Cost: $66.03/day

Osaka may be the 3rd largest city in Japan, but it makes the biggest jump forward on this years’s list – ranking as the 27th cheapest city in the world for 2022. The city is most famous for its popular entertainment district, but it is also packed with museums, a stunning castle, and a family-friendly aquarium. Universal Studios Japan is also located here.

28) Busan, South Korea

Average Cost: $66.85/day

Busan is the second most populous city in South Korea, but don’t believe for a second that it takes a backseat to the capital city of Seoul. Here, you can wander through the bustling international market or go ice skating inside the world’s largest department store. Want to hit the beach? Busan has got that too. Haeundae Beach boasts nearly a mile of beautiful sandy beach while Gwangalli Beach offers a quieter respite from the city (and beautiful views of the evening lightshow at Gwangan Bridge).

29) Prague, Czech Republic

Average Cost: $66.93/day

When searching for affordable European holidays, be sure to put Prague near the top of your list. Why? For starters, it’s one of the cheapest place to travel in Europe, according to our methodology. Known for its cheap beer, affordable hotels, and reasonable meal prices, Prague is a great place to hang out. Sure, there is plenty to see – like visiting the Old Town Square and Prague Castle – but simply soaking up the atmosphere is the city’s main attraction.

30) Marrakech, Morocco

Average Cost: $67.57/day

Located in western Morocco, Marrakech is an important economic and cultural center in North Africa. A former imperial city, one of the most popular things to do here is to tour the palaces and their gardens. Also consider getting lost in the chaotic streets of Medina, the walled medieval city within the city which is designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located relatively close to both the mountains and the desert, nature and wildlife tours are also popular.

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #31-#40

31) kiev, ukraine.

Average Cost: $68.67/day

Home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kiev is more than just the capital of Ukraine. It is one of the most important cultural, educational, and industrial hubs in all of Eastern Europe. Packed with beautiful churches and a thriving street art scene, this city will delight art, history, and architecture lovers alike. Although political tensions in the region are currently running extremely high, be sure to put Kiev back on your travel bucket list once the tensions subside.

32) Seoul, South Korea

Average Cost: $69.46/day

South Korea’s largest city, Seoul, is widely considered to be one of the world’s top cultural and economic hubs. Blending ancient cultures and architecture with modern skyscrapers and entertainment, Seoul provides a unique mix of the past meeting the present. In addition to visiting the area’s numerous palaces and temples, be sure to check out the incredible views at nearby Bukhansan National Park.

33) Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Average Cost: $69.49/day

If beautiful beach vacations are more your thing, Punta Cana may be a great fit for you. As one of the cheapest places to travel in the Caribbean, Punta Cana is an attractive option for budget travelers from the United States and Canada. With spectacular sandy beaches, relatively affordable prices, and the incredible turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sean, this place is sure to help you get your relax on.

34) Sapporo, Japan

Average Cost: $69.97/day

Known across the world for its beer, the Japanese mountain city of Sapporo is also one of the world’s most affordable travel destinations. Skiers come for the magnificent slopes while ice scupltors from around the world transform the city into a winter wonderland during the Sapporo Snow Festival. Check out the city’s fantastic museums, catch a game at the Sapporo Dome, and sample a local dish called “kegani” (hairy crab) while you’re there!

35) Budapest, Hungary

Average Cost: $70.96/day

Central and Eastern Europe are full of cheap vacation ideas, and Hungary is one of the cheapest countries to visit. Budapest, the nation’s largest city and capital, is a delight for tourists – both for its sightseeing and the fact that it’s easy on their pocketbook. While food, hotel, and beverage prices are some of the cheapest you’ll find in all of Europe, taking a short cruise through town on the Danube River is something you’ll never forget.

36) Fukuoka, Japan

Average Cost: $72.22/day

Situated on the northern coast of Kyushu Island, Fukuoka, Japan is known for more than just its beaches. It is a popular destination for shopping, boasting the enormous Canal City Hakata shopping center. You’ll also want to explore Fukuoka’s historic ancient temples and check out the view from the Fukuoka Tower observation deck – Japan’s tallest seaside tower.

37) Taipei, Taiwan

Average Cost: $72.64/day

Taipei, Taiwan ranks as the 37th cheapest city in the world for 2022. With incredible night markets and tons of street food, Taipei is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. The city is also home to a host of temples and museums for tourists to enjoy. Elephant Mountain and Yangmingshan National Park make for great day trips from the city.

38) Moscow, Russia

Average Cost: $74.87/day

Speaking of cheap places to travel, in terms of value, Russia’s capital city is one of the best places to visit in Europe. While you’ll definitely want to spend time visiting the Red Square and the Kremlin, Moscow is also a major cultural hub. Wander around the city’s cadre of art and history museums before catching a performance from the Bolshoi Ballet.

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39) Macau, Macau

Average Cost: $75.74/day

Like its neighbor Hong Kong, Macau is an autonomous region of China located on the country’s south coast. As a former Portuguese territory, the area features a mix of cultural influences and tastes. The area is also home to several mega casinos, earning the nickname the “Las Vegas of China.” Unlike other areas known for their showy nature, food and hotel prices in Macau rank relatively affordable on our list. However, prices for adult beverages are more in line with what you’d find in Western Europe and North America.

40) Porto, Portugal

Average Cost: $77.20/day

Slipping barely inside the top 40 of our cheapest places to travel list is Porto, Portugal. Located on Portugal’s northwestern coast, this city is known for its majestic bridges, cobbled streets, and port wine. While prices for accommodations and meals are some of the best you’ll find in Western Europe, beverage prices rank as some of the cheapest in the world. Porto ranks a solid 31st overall in the beverage category. We’ll drink to that!

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #41-#50

41) tokyo, japan.

Average Cost: $77.56/day

Tokyo is another ultra-modern city that finds itself on our list. Although finding cheap places to travel in Asia is pretty easy, Tokyo ranks among the most expensive in the region. Still, Japan’s largest city is relatively affordable compared to many places in Europe and North America. With that said, Tokyo is one of the world’s hottest tourist destinations, ranking 15th overall on Euromonitor’s Top City Destinations Index for last year.

42) Johannesburg, South Africa

Average Cost: $78.27/day

Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and ranks as the #42 cheapest travel destination in the world for 2022. Beverage prices rank in the top 25%, but hotel and meal prices helped push the city further down the list (39th for accommodations, 56th in restaurant costs). Popular things to do in Johannesburg include visiting the Apartheid Museum, checking out the “Cradle of Humankind” UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoying nature safaris.

43) Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Average Cost: $79.06/day

Located in the UAE, Sharjah is a popular and affordable travel destination which sits on the shores of the Persian Gulf. Families love the fun-filled theme parks and aquarium. Architecture lovers and religious travelers enjoy the Al Noor Mosque and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. Of course, the bustling waterfront attracts travelers of all types.

44) Heraklion, Greece

Average Cost: $80.26/day

Located on the island of Crete, Heraklion is a popular resort area in Greece. Heraklion remains a relatively cheap vacation spot in Europe, coming in at #44 overall. While families may come to enjoy a beach vacation, they can also soak up some of the area’s remarkable museums and ancient ruins. Just a few minutes from the city, tourists will find the ancient archaeological site of Knossos, believed to be Europe’s oldest city.

45) Krakow, Poland

Average Cost: $80.66/day

Cracking the top half in two of our three categories, Krakow lands at #45 on our list of the cheapest places to travel in the world. The city is famous for its medieval town center, which is remarkably well preserved considering all of the political turmoil this country has faced throughout history. Wandering through the large Jewish quarter is also a must. Located within close proximity to Auschwitz-Birkenau, Krakow also makes a good home base for a journey there.

46) Athens, Greece

Average Cost: $82.07/day

In my opinion, a trip to Greece represents one of the best value vacations in all of Europe. Although some tell you to hit the highlights in Athens and leave quickly, I disagree. The birthplace of western culture, Athens is an incredibly unique city, filled with some of the most amazing historical and cultural sites you’ll find anywhere. Sure, you’ll want to head out into the Greek countryside, but the gritty, lively streets of Athens are something you should consider taking a few days to enjoy.

47) Cape Town, South Africa

Average Cost: $82.45/day

The second largest city in South Africa, Cape Town is another newcomer to our list. This naturally beautiful seaside city is filled with fun things to do. It also serves as the home of South Africa’s parliament. Be sure to check out the various beaches, check out the Bo-kaap neighborhood, and ride the cable car to the top of Table Mountain for some breathtaking views.

48) Kyoto, Japan

Average Cost: $85.81/day

Once the capital of the Japanese empire, Kyoto is now one of Japan’s best places to travel. Famous for its traditional wooden houses, buddhist temples, and imperial palaces, the city also provides beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. While you’re there, be sure to enjoy a kaiseki dinner and a geisha show.

4 9) Guangzhou, China

Average Cost: $86.94/day

Located just to the northwest of Hong Kong and Shenzhen is Guangzhou, China. Like its neighbors, Guangzhou is a popular destination for tourists of all stripes. Adventure seekers may wish to go bungee jumping at nearby Baiyun Mountain. The Chimelong Safari Park and Chimelong International Circus tend to be popular for families traveling with children.

50) Medina, Saudi Arabia

Average Cost: $86.98/day

Located in western Saudi Arabia, Medina is an extremely popular destination for pilgrims. Inside the city, you’ll find the Al-Masjid an-Nabawi mosque. The mosque was originally built by the Prophet Muhammad in the year 622 and is considered to be the second-holiest site in Islam – containing the tomb of the the Prophet Muhammad himself. Medina is also home to another important mosque, Masjid al-Qiblatain. After the Prophet Muhammad received the revelation to change the direction of prayer, it was here that Muslims first began to pray toward Mecca instead of Jerusalem.

Cheapest Places to Travel 2022: Complete Results

Our methodology.

Let me assure you, we haven’t taken this project lightly.

To accurately measure the cost of each location, we’ve created a methodology which ensures that each destination stands on relatively equal footing. So, as we’ve done in the past, we have focused our efforts on factors that were universal, controllable, and useful.

First, we had to decide which destinations to include. Although Brookings, South Dakota may be a cheap place to travel for fellow South Dakotans, how many people actually visit Brookings each year? How useful is that to the vast majority of people?

For that reason, we have limited inclusion on our list to the cities which appear on Euromonitor International’s  Top 100 City Destinations Index  for 2021. The index ranks international travel destinations accross 6 key metrics – including Economic & Business Performance, Tourism Perfomrance, Tourism Policy & Attractiveness, Tourism Infrastructure, Health and Safety, and Sustainability. It also replaces Euromonitor’s now defunct Top 100 City Destinations Report – which is what we have used in the past to determine which cities make our list.

Since everybody’s travel style is different, we also must determine which factors best represent the overall cost of a destination. Average food and beverage costs are an important factor in our rankings, as we feel they are indicative of an area’s overall affordability.

Using numbers from  Numbeo , our food and entertainment numbers are based on the average cost of a meal at an “inexpensive” restaurant (3 per day) and the average cost of a domestic beer (3 per day). We have added an extra 10% to both, just to be on the safe side.

Prices for accommodations are also a major factor in our rankings. Clearly, one’s travel preferences will affect the amount it costs to stay in a certain area. For instance,  overwater bungalows , no matter how affordable, are going to cost a heck of a lot more than a standard hotel room.

Additionally, because rates change based on occupancy and the time of year in which they are booked, it is important to find a consistent way in which to apply our methodology. Therefore, our numbers are based on a midweek stay during the “low season” in each destination – averaging the 5 cheapest 3-star options for accommodations during that time. We have also ensured that the accommodations are located within the most popular tourist areas of the city.

To help you put this all together, here’s a quick breakdown of our methodology:

• Must be listed in Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index
• 3-star+ accommodations
• “Low season” pricing
• Located within popular tourist area
• Midweek stay
• Double occupancy
• Plus 10% for accuracy

Known Issues with Our Methodology

This isn’t to say that our methodology is perfect.

As with any study, our rankings are only as accurate as the data we’ve collected. While we’re confident in our sources, there is certainly some room for error. However, the results tend to correlate with what most experienced travelers would expect.

Of course, there are some really cheap places to travel that didn’t make the list because – well – they don’t qualify. For instance, Sofia, Bulgaria and Bucharest, Romania are widely considered some of Europe’s most affordable travel destinations. However, they didn’t meet the standard of the number of visitors needed to make our report.

This year, in particular, sees a big change in some of the destinations that made our list. In the past, we have used Euromonitor’s Top 100 City Destinations Report to determine the 100 cities on our list. This report ranked cities based entirely on international arrivals. With Euromonitor replacing the report with their Top 100 City Destinations Index (which ranks destinations on a number of factors outside of simply arrivals), this has caused a reshuffling of which cities we’ve included on our list.

For example, since the last time we published our list, 12 of the cheapest 20 cities are no longer included because they did not qualify for Euromonitor’s Top 100 City Destinations Index. That is a huge shift.

Although this may seem unfair, many of these cities represented a redundancy of cheap tourist areas. The 12 cities no longer listed are located in just 5 different countires. All but one of those countries is still represented by other cities in the top 20 cheapest places to visit.

Additionally, the new index allows for a broader representation of cheap travel destinations across the world. In our last survey, all of the top 20 cheapest places to visit were located in Asia and Oceania. While these areas still dominate the top spots, at least one city from every region of the world now cracks the top 20.

Moving on, one of the biggest expenses for any vacation is transportation. This is an extremely difficult metric to gauge. Flight costs vary wildly depending on where you’re flying to and from. Because we couldn’t find a consistent way to apply airfares across the globe, we decided to leave them out entirely.

For that reason, some of the cheapest places to travel may not be as affordable for  you . For example, flights from New York City to most Asian destinations can cost 2 or 3 times as much as flights to Europe. Keep this in mind before settling on a destination for your next vacation.

Since it’s nearly impossible to predict transportation costs from around the world, our list represents a metric of what you can expect to spend once you arrive.

Final Thoughts on Cheap Travel Destinations

If you’re a  veteran of budget travel , the results of our study shouldn’t shock you.

As expected, the cheapest countries in the world are found mostly in Asia. However, while travel destinations throught Asia dominate the top spots on our list, our new criteria has opened the door for places around the world to climb in our rankings.

Several affordable destinations in South America, Africa, and the Middle East now grace our list. And, although travel destinations in Europe and North America are generally the most expensive places to visit, our updated criteria even allows a few cities from these regions to sneak into our top 20.

Keep in mind, however, that comparing the best travel destinations by price is extremely relative. When searching for cheap places to travel, numerous factors come into play – including your proximity to the destination and the time of year you plan to visit. Seemingly cheap vacation spots can quickly turn into budget busters if you don’t account for every expense.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of the cheapst places to travel in the world. Thanks so much for reading and happy traveling!

Are any of these cheap travel destinations in your budget travel plans? Let us know in the comments below!

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Greg Johnson is the co-founder of Club Thrifty and an expert in personal finance, family travel, and credit card rewards. His work and commentary have been featured in publications like Newsweek , Kiplinger’s Personal Finance , Dough Roller , CreditCardReviews.com , and more. He also works as a freelance personal finance editor at Bankrate.com.

Greg travels the world for about 20 weeks each year and has visited over 40 countries. He holds two bachelor's degrees, is the co-author of the book Zero Down Your Debt , and owns his own independent travel agency. Learn more about Greg here.

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22 Comments

This list is great for any budget traveler and it provides enough destinations for anyone looking to include new places on their bucket list. I’m glad to see that Romania is also included, especially because it’s one of the most affordable European travel destinations.

I love all of these destinations. I will include most of them in my travel plans. Please consider Montreal, Canada. It’s gorgeous and affordable, especially for US citizens. Also, Iceland is more and more popular. It has the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Finally, for non-US citizens, Habana Cuba it affordable, happy, and beautiful.

San Francisco is a really good place for fun where I stay for two days. I had a blast of fun at this most amazing and alluring destination and came back with a lot of pleasant memories. Truly your shared all these places are the best for travelling and you can comfortable stay with family and kids at reasonable prices.

San Francisco doesn’t qualify for cheap in any category..

What a great list you have here and the details are very informative. A trip to Europe seems everything but cheap, thanks for including some great destinations.

Great list! City travels are really cheaper than any other kind of travel. Thanks for posting this.

London, Italy and Thailand are definitely on my top 3 bucket list. Although Scotland wasn’t on this list, I heard their castles are great for sight seeing.

Will include some of these travel destinations in my travel list! Thanks for this.

Wow, awesome list of places! I can’t even decide which I should visit first.

I know, right?!? Thanks for reading!

Thanks for this great post, i enjoyed reading it. But: unbelievable that u left out the whole philippines!

Thanks for reading! Yes, the Philippines is certainly a cheap place to travel, but there isn’t a spot there that makes the top 100 most visited destinations in the world. So, it didn’t quite make the list 🙂

Hey, thank you so much bud! this is what I exactly needed couldn’t figure it out at first where should I trip this year after reading the whole blog now I have some in my bucket list, keep it up thanks for sharing such wonderful article across the internet.

Hi Greg, I have been to 5 of your top 10 but nothing is as cheap as GOA, India. I have visited GOA 8 times and the affordability is unbelievable. Would suggest these places in Goa if you are looking out for specifics. Trust me these places have wonderful food and most affordable accommodation, restaurants and beer. Listed down a few for your reference: calangute, baga, condolem, Palolem, Anjuna, colva and vegator.

I’ve already checked out up to ten items from this list. Lviv is probably the most memorable. This year I’m travelling to Porto with my girls. We’re really excited about cheap beverages. Thanks for the article, makes it easier to choose my next 90 destinations.

Fantastic! Glad you enjoyed it and happy traveling!

This is a fine list of bucketlist destinations, but you lost me on the budget/cheap angle when you mentioned taking “a sunset cruise, and maybe try a helicopter ride over the active volcanoes” in Hawaii.

I’ll definitely be getting myself to India though. So many incredible places to explore there.

Hey Man! Where is Cox’s Bazar? It’s a beautiful and longest sea beach in the world. You should include it in your article.

Where is the Philippines? El nido, Coron, Port Barton, Cebu etc. Any of those destination can make the top 10 cheapest.

Hey !! Thanks ,its really informative. Just tripped over this and I love the info. Well done! I’m a “young” active 65 year old looking to start traveling alone to places more intriguing than Paris or Rome( which I love ,but…)

I have always had a penchant for travel and have visited a number of countries throughout my life. This year, I decided to take a trip to a country that I had never been to before- this has been the cheapest country where I have ever visited. After much deliberation, I opted for the Central African Republic (CAR). I researched the country extensively before deciding to make the trip, and found that there were a number of reasons why this was the perfect country for me. First and foremost, it is one of the least developed countries in the world, which means that there are a lot of opportunities for tourism. Second, it is a country with a rich historical heritage, which I was interested in learning more about. Third, it is a safe country, which is important to me as a traveler. Finally, it is a country with a large variety of landscapes, which I knew I would enjoy.

Awesome travel guide on the internet, I’m feeling more confidence after reading the article.

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The 30 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2024

01/01/2024 by Ashley Yap 88 Comments

Which countries in the world offer the most value? Where can you travel to in 2024 that will allow you to go for longer, enjoy a higher standard, and save more money? The following are 30 destinations around the world that offer the essentials – accommodation, transportation, and food – for less:

Table of Contents

Our Favorite Cheap Destinations Quick List:

• Best in Southeast Asia for Food: Vietnam
• Best in Southeast Asia for Beaches: Philippines
• Best in Asia for Hiking: Kyrgyzstan
• Best in Europe for Food: Greece
• Best in Europe for Beaches: Croatia
• Best in Europe for Quaint Towns: Estonia
• Best in Europe for Smaller Crowds: Georgia
• Best in the Americas: Guatemala
• Best for Safari: South Africa

1. Laos, $30/day

Back in my budget backpacking days around Southeast Asia , Laos was one of the two destinations where I was able to keep my budget at $30/day, even though the accommodation was slightly more expensive than most places in Southeast Asia at that time. Many of the amazing activities you can do in Laos are cheap. I paid $2.50 to see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, $7 for a full-day tubing experience along the Vang Vieng river, and $6 for an awesome tiger balm massage. You can also rent a motorbike for cheap and venture off to the smaller towns, where everything is even cheaper! With more and more new hostels built to cater to the increasing number of backpackers, you can go for cheaper for longer. However, if you have a bit more to spend, you can get a gorgeous room for closer to $35 which would easily cost $100 in the US.

• Meals: $3 – $9 per day. Some hostels provide a basic breakfast
• Accommodation: $5-$10 per night in a hostel
• Transportation: $6 – $15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills), or up to $25 for an intercity bus ticket
• SIM card with data: $6 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity

– Read More –

A complete guide to Laos

2. Vietnam, $35/day

I probably had the healthiest and cheapest street food in Vietnam . Think a soup with rice noodles, cilantro, amazing broth, and a whole shank of pork for $1.50, or a cup of strong, aromatic coffee for $1. Regarding transportation, if you rent a motorbike, you are all set for the day. However, I understand that not everyone is comfortable riding a motorbike, especially in countries like Vietnam where the road traffic can be overwhelmingly chaotic. The good news is that GrabBike (similar to Uber but on bikes!) is widely available in all major cities, and the cost is as low as $0.50 for a 2km ride! Long-distance buses and trains are also affordable and reliable. Accommodation is similarly pleasant and easier to afford than almost anywhere else in the world.

• Meals: $5 – $12 per day. Some hostels provide a basic breakfast.
• Transportation: $8 – $15 for motorbike rental or GrabBike trips

The ultimate backpacking Vietnam route planner

A complete guide to Vietnam

3. Cambodia, $30/day

I know for sure that if you choose to rough it, you can easily spend a month in Cambodia with just $1000. Dorms are very basic but can be dirt cheap, the same goes for food and alcohol. I also had my haggling skills to thank as I was almost always able to talk my way out of being charged unfairly by the Tuk Tuk drivers. There are some one-off expenses such as the 3-day pass to Angkor Wat, which is currently set at $62, and diving trips that add up, but there will also be days of riding bicycle in a small village and eating cheap and delicious meat skewers when just a dollar or two could stretch very far.

Another thing is to consider the gorgeous, mostly new boutique hotels on booking.com . They are obviously not as cheap as staying in hostels, but for the price, they are so worth it! I’d definitely splurge on a couple of nights and have some R&R time by the pool.

READ NEXT: 23 cheapest 5-star hotels around the world

• Meals: $5 – $10 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast.
• Accommodation: $5-$15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation: $6-$15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills) or for an intercity bus ticket
• SIM card with data : $2 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity. Yes, it is that cheap!

A perfect Cambodia itinerary

A complete guide to Cambodi a

4. Northern Thailand, $32/day

The north of Thailand is easy on a tight budget. As one moves south, costs for accommodation start to double, triple, and even quadruple. Stay up north if you are short on time and budget for your Thailand trip. Even in popular places like Chiang Mai and Pai , you can easily find basic dorms for less than $7. If you stick with eating street food (To each her own, but why eat pasta when you can have pad Thai, am I right?), not only will you save yourself some money, the experience will be much more authentic and delicious, too. As far as activities go, you really do not need a lot of money to enjoy your day as most activities such as visiting the White Temple, hiking, or gathering three other people from your hostel to rent a car and go on some day trips , are all affordable.

Meals: $5 – $15 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast Accommodation: $5-$10 per night in a hostel Transportation: $6-$10 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills) or a rental car split between 4 people SIM card with data: $7 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity

Thailand bucket list: 50 best things to do

A complete guide to Thailand

5. Indonesia, $35/day

The thing about Indonesia is that it can be really cheap , or it can be quite expensive, depending on one big thing – transportation. Intercity traveling can be very time-consuming and costly, as is traveling from one island to another with a private boat. To save costs, stick with a region or two! There’s a lot to do and see , and spending more time in one place will only allow you to travel deeper and have a more meaningful experience anyway. If you want to travel far and wide on a budget, my biggest tip is to take the local transportation!

On the flip side, food and drinks are cheap throughout the country, not to mention absolutely delicious too! Riding a scooter through the mountains costs very little, and so does hiking, chasing waterfalls, and slouching in a hammock by the beach all day long. Hostels are plentiful, social, and affordable, especially in places like  the Gili Islands .

• Meals: $5 – $15 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast.
• Accommodation: $7-$15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation: $8-$15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills)
• SIM card with data: $5 for 2GB with 30-day validity

The Perfect Indonesia Itinerary for 2 weeks to 2 months

A complete guide to Indonesia

6. The Philippines, $37/day

The Philippines’s archipelago can cost quite a lot of money and time to get around, and the hostel options aren’t nearly as abundant as in other Southeast Asia countries. While these two factors seem like a big turn-off for travelers trying to stretch their budget as far as possible, there are ways to keep your travel cost in the Philippines low. If you choose to travel during shoulder seasons, book your flights and plan your journey way in advance (it is not the country to always wing it!), and try to stick within 1-2 regions, the Philippines can still be affordable. On top of that, the country has some of the most gorgeous islands , beautiful dive sites, affordable group island hopping tours , and hidden gems  you’d have had to pay so much more to experience in other parts of the world. In that sense, the Philippines is worth every peso you spend.

• Accommodation: $7-$20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation: $10-$15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills) or $15 – $20 for a boat ride from one island to another
• SIM card with data: $6 for 2GB with 30-day validity

The Perfect Philippines Itinerary

A complete guide to The Philippines

7. Malaysia, $40/day

Being one of the most economically developed Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia is often perceived as expensive . On top of that, when I visited Malaysia for the first time, a few people told me it wasn’t worth staying long. However, I ended up meeting lots of locals, more able to communicate and find more common ground with them than I had in Cambodia or Laos, and had so much fun exploring Cameron Highlands, the jungles of Borneo , and the gorgeous islands. The cherry on top? They were all affordable . An overnight bus from Kuala Lumpur to the Perhentian Islands costs as little as $15, there are so many interesting local neighborhoods and markets that are free to explore, and finally, the Malaysian cuisine is like no other – you can find food from just about any culture, and it’s so cheap and delicious – but not necessarily healthy. Malaysia is also one of the cheapest places in the world to get a PADI scuba diving certificate.

The one thing that could make Malaysia expensive to travel in is alcohol, which is highly taxed. However, if you don’t plan on drinking every night, that will not be an issue.

• Meals: $5 – $10 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast
• Accommodation: $7 – $15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation: $5 – $7 for a full day of train and bus rides, or $15 – $20 for an overnight intercity bus ride
• SIM card with data: $8 for 2GB with 30-day validity

The Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

A complete guide to Malaysia

8. Sri Lanka, $35/day

Like many countries, Sri Lanka can be seen on a backpacker budget , or one can spend a small fortune there. The biggest kicker was the price of activities, such as safaris, and admission into the UNESCO World Heritage sites.  With each running about $40-$50 per ticket, this made Sri Lanka more expensive to fully explore. That said, Sri Lanka can be done on closer to $30 per day on the days that you don’t pay for expensive activities. Food, transport, accommodation, and Internet are relatively cheap. One thing to note about transportation is that in some cases, taking a taxi / uber (in major cities) can be cheaper than renting a bike. Hiring a driver for the day can be as low as $5 per person if you can find people in your hostel to split the cost. The cheapest transportation is the train, which is delightful and IMO, the best way to travel through Sri Lanka.

Disclaimer: 2022 saw a great amount of unrest in Sri Lanka. As of the publishing of this post, the country is still under a level 2 advisory (exercise increased caution) from the US State Department.

• Accommodation: $8-$15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $15-$20 per person for a private car and driver split between 4 people, or $3-$5 for a second-class cabin train ride between cities
• SIM card with data: $2 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity. Yes, it is that cheap!

Sri Lanka’s best plac es to visit

A complete guide to Sri Lanka

9. Nepal, $30/day ($15/day if trekking)

Nepal is a very cheap country to travel through, with most food, accommodation, and transport running at just a few dollars if you eat, sleep, and travel using local options. For food, while I never seem to get any stomach problems eating street food, street food in Nepal does not have the best reputation. You can get cheap and delicious home-cooked meals in local-run small cafes though. Be very mindful when you book your accommodation online, as big corporations have taken over local homestays and turned them into boutique hotels and resorts. The “local guesthouses” you’ve booked may very well be part of a big hotel chain. I suggest booking the first couple of nights online, and looking for accommodation from real local guesthouses when you arrive.

If you end up trekking , as long as you do so independently and avoid Mt. Everest itself, which costs tens of thousands of dollars, you can travel for as cheap as $10 per day on food and accommodation at the lower elevations, and closer to $20 USD at higher elevations on popular routes like the  Annapurna Circuit .

• Accommodation : $7-$12 per night in a local guesthouse
• Transportation: $10-$15 per person for a private car and driver split between 4 people, or a local bus ride between cities
• SIM card with data: $3 for 1.25GB with 30-day validity. Yes, it is that cheap!

A complete guide to N epa l

10. Taiwan, $45/day

Two words: street food. For less than $2, you can get a plate of fragrant rice with pork/chicken on top, a large deep-fried chicken chop, or a bowl of delicious vermicelli with oysters. Food in Taiwan is delicious and ridiculously cheap. If you are a foodie on a budget, you know where to go! In cities like Taipei and Tainan, you can register for their city bikes, which cost less than $0.50 per hour per ride and are free for the first 30 minutes. This means you can possibly get around the city all day without spending any money on transportation at all.

That said, high-end food and clothing prices in Taiwan can sometimes be at US-level. Intercity traveling is either expensive with the High-Speed Rail (HSR), or time-consuming with slightly cheaper options. Internet is also not as cheap as in the countries above.

• Accommodation: $10 – $35 per night in a hostel  (I highly recommend this one in Taipei !)
• Transportation : $0 – $3 for a full day of bike, bus, and train rides, or $20 – $40 for an HSR ride between cities
• SIM card with data: $33 for unlimited data with 28-day validity

11. India, $25/day

India is perhaps the cheapest country to travel to, but if and only if you’re willing to haggle and hunt for deals. Keep in mind that cheap rooms that run in the $3 range will be very basic and it’s normal to shower with buckets of heated water. You will be hard-pressed to find cheap gems in the north, but the south with its gorgeous beaches may prove more fruitful when it comes to budget accommodation.

The best way to travel through India on a budget is to book things yourself. This means no agents and no online booking sites (except for some intercity travel. For that, check out  12Go Asia ). Similar to Nepal, if you walk into local guesthouses, restaurants, and tour companies, you could easily get the same things in person for half the quoted price online.

• Meals: $3 – $6 per day
• Accommodation : $5 – $10 per night in a local guesthouse
• Transportation : $1 – $3 for a full day of bus and train rides, or $8 – $30 for an intercity train ride (sometimes a domestic flight costs as little as $30, if you want to splurge without actually splurging!)
• SIM card with data: $3 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity. Yes, it is that cheap!

12. Kyrgyzstan, $25/day

Kyrgyzstan is the country of choice for most travelers interested in trying out Central Asia, and thus most well-suited to  travelers of all budgets . Food is cheap and interesting, and so is getting around using the minibusses. Public transportation prices are fixed and are probably the cheapest aspect of traveling in Kyrgyzstan. As for accommodation, you can find hostels in major destinations and local homestays in more rural places for less than $10. If you are doing a multi-day hike like the Tian Shan Mountains , the tour price should include most things.

• Meals: $4 – $8 per day
• Accommodation: $8 – $12 per night in a hostel or a local guesthouse
• Transportation: $0.20 for a local minibus ride, or $4 for an intercity bus ride – that’s right!
• SIM card with data: $3 for 3GB with 30-day validity. Though I wouldn’t expect it to work in the mountains

A quick guide to Kyrgyzstan

13. Romania, $40/day

If you are planning a European trip that’s affordable and a little bit off the beaten path, Romania is perfect for you. While the country is known for Dracula, many charming towns and free activities remain unknown to most foreigners. Whether you’re taking a long stroll through the medieval villages, or people-watching in one of the beautiful parks, Romania is great for anyone after a European experience on a budget. You can also make use of the free walking tours to check out the numerous historical sites. Hostels run $10-$15 per night, and food is hearty and delicious (a money-saving tip: Have your breakfast at the hostel, have a big hearty meal for lunch, and cook your own meal for dinner. It’s easy and affordable to get fresh produce from the local market, make sure your hostel has a kitchen!), and public transportation is reliable and affordable.

• Meals: $10 – $15 per day
• Accommodation: $12 – $20 per night in a hostel or a local guesthouse
• Transportation : $5 – $10 for a full day of bus and train rides
• SIM card with data : $6 for 3GB with 28-day validity

14. Georgia, $30/day

Georgia is another underrated European destination that’s absolutely beautiful and affordable. Also, get this: most of you will be able to enter Georgia without a visa , and stay for one year. Say what?!

Quality hostels at a reasonable price range, a meal at a local restaurant for as low as $3, and a local minibus ride for less than $1 are just some of the great things Georgia can offer to its visitors. What’s more? Entrance fees to museums and historical sites are mostly less than $2.  The locals are extremely warm and welcoming, and hitchhiking is totally possible for short and long-distance travel. There are many day trips, hikes, and monasteries in Georgia, where one can easily spend months and not get bored. It’s perfect if you have more time than money.

• Accommodation: $10 – $15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation: $3 – $5 for a full day of bus and train rides, $5-$10 for an intercity ride, or $0 if you hitchhike!
• SIM card with data: $3 for 1GB with 1-month validity

15. Greece, $45/day

Timing is crucial if you want to travel in Greece on a budget. While prices of flights, accommodation and tours have been largely cut down since the country’s debt crisis in 2010, summer months still cost more than others. This means avoiding July and August, which are the hottest and busiest months in Greece. Instead, go a few weeks before or after summer, and you will be able to enjoy Greece with smaller crowds and a lower budget. You can also cut down on food costs by buying fresh produce from the market and making your own meals, since eating out in restaurants can be expensive in certain parts of Greece. A little picnic by the gorgeous beach can be as enjoyable as a lavish meal at a seafood restaurant!

As far as activities go, opt for the free walking tours available, and if you are planning to do some island hopping in Greece , plan well and stick with a group of islands to minimize transfers. Remember that sometimes a domestic flight can be cheaper than a bus ride for any long-distance travel.

• Transportation : $10 – $15 per person for a rental car split between 4 people (note: scooter rental costs about $25 – $30/day), or $10-$20 for ferry tickets around the islands
• SIM card with data : $12 for 2GB with 30-day validity

16. Czech Republic, $40/day

As more and more tourists flock to the Czech Republic, or more specifically, Prague, for its rich history and cheaper-than-water beer, prices have inflated over the last few years. However, it is still easily one of the cheapest central European countries to travel in, especially if you go beyond Prague, such as Cesky Krumlov and Telc, to experience true Czech culture at a much lower cost. Local transportation is reliable and affordable, and if you plan to do a lot of traveling, consider getting a 3-day pass for $16.

Czech cuisine is very hearty and large in portion. While it’s not the healthiest (most meals consist of potato and meat), it will surely fill you up so to stretch your budget – eat out at a local restaurant for lunch, and have a light snack for dinner. Entrance fees to historical sites and museums can be quite expensive ($18 to enter the Prague Castle), but you don’t always have to actually enter – the hikes up are awesome, and you can always admire the architecture from outside, and pick the most intriguing ones to go in.

• Meals : $10 – $15 per day
• Accommodation : $12 – $20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation: $5 for a full day of tram rides, $15-$20 for an intercity bus ride
• SIM card with data : $13 for 2GB with 1-month validity

17. Poland, $44/day

If you are a fan of heritage sites, Poland has 14 to offer. A country rich with culture and history, it’s a shame that Poland is often overlooked by tourists. It costs an average of $5 to enter museums and historical sites, which is fairly affordable by European standards. Food is delicious and has a bit more variety than its neighboring countries, though it’s still heavy on the calories. The trains are a bit dated but cost very little.

Poland is one of those countries where you can easily spend an entire day just wandering and people-watching. There will be days when you spend nothing else but on essentials. Make sure to eat at a “milk bar”, an affordable yet delicious option that’s popular with locals. Go beyond Krakow and Warsaw, and explore other smaller towns like Gdansk, Wroclaw, and Zakopane, which are all stunning and possibly even cheaper to travel in.

• Accommodation : $9 – $20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation: $1 – $3 for a full day of train rides, $10-$15 for an intercity train ride
• SIM card with data: $3 for 2GB with 1-month validity

18. Croatia, $47/day

If you like turquoise waters, sunshine, and parties, look no further than Croatia to plan your next budget trip. There are thousands of islands surrounding its mainland, excellent weather from May – October, and beach and yacht parties year-round. The essential expenses including accommodation, transportation and food all come with a reasonable price tag. There is also beautiful architecture to marvel at, interesting sights such as the Museum of Broken Relationships , as well as cute small towns to explore.

To travel in Croatia on a budget, you need a similar approach to Greece – travel in the shoulder season. July & August are the country’s busiest months, so avoid them if possible. Also, keep your island hopping to a group of islands to minimize transfers. Since Croatia is gaining more popularity each year, expect prices to keep rising and aim to visit sooner than later if you want to snag a deal.

• Meals: $10 – $15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast.
• Accommodation : $12 – $30 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $12 – $15 per person for a rental car split between 4 people , or $10-$15 for a ferry ride
• SIM card with data : $8 for 2GB with 30-day validity

19. Turkey, $45/day

Turkey can be cheap or expensive, depending on what you want to do and how deeply you want to travel through the country. A hot air balloon ride costs around $400-$500, and intercity traveling can be really long and costly. However, the country has a bunch of other bucket list-worthy items that cost way less, and if you plan your route well, it is definitely possible, if not easy, to travel through Turkey on a budget.

The stunning Blue Mosque in Istanbul, the breathtaking white travertines in Pamukkale, and the hustling bazaars all over the country are relatively affordable to enter. While the long-distance buses are expensive, if you plan well and take the overnight buses, you get to save on accommodation. If you are short on time and money, stick with a city or two. Turkish food is delicious and cheap, so that’s one less thing to worry about!

• Transportation : $1 – $3 for a taxi ride or $30 – $60 for an intercity overnight bus ride

20. Lithuania, $44/day

Lithuania is a tiny country that most travelers skip or spend at most a night or two in just the capital city, Vilnius. However, this charming place is not only underrated but also very affordable to travel in! If you enjoy partying, the nightlife scene in Vilnius is vibrant and fun, and the alcohol is fairly affordable. If you’d like a quieter experience, check out the Old Town in Kaunas, Klaipeda, and Curonian Spit. Bear in mind that outside of the capital city, hostels can be hard to come by, so book in advance or even consider Couchsurfing!

• Accommodation : $10 – $20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $3 – $6 for a full day of bus rides within the city, or $15 – $20 for an intercity bus ride. Buses seem to be more reliable than trains in Lithuania!
• SIM card with data: Get a Baltic SIM card for $7 for 3GB with 30-day validity

22. Estonia, $44/day

Nature lovers will love Estonia – 53% of the country is forested. This also means that activities like hiking and exploring the national parks are plentiful and affordable (if not completely free). The small towns are also great for walking and cycling, so transportation costs can be minimized. On that note, affordable hostels can be hard to come by in these small towns, so consider basing yourself in the capital city, Tallinn, and make day trips to visit them.

• Accommodation: $10 – $20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation: $3 – $6 for a full day of train rides within the city, or $10 – $15 for an intercity train ride

23. Latvia, $47/day

Similar to Estonia, half of the country is covered in forests. There are also thousands of lakes and rivers in Latvia, perfect for canoeing lovers. The best time to go to Latvia is during fall or winter, when you can canoe down the rivers with the color-changing leaves accompanying you or when the Christmas vibe is on full display at the local Christmas markets. One can also easily spend an entire day wandering through the enchanting forests with castles hidden in them (okay, maybe not “hidden,” but this sounds dreamier, as castles should be). All of these activities are affordable/free, which is why traveling in Latvia can be done on a budget.

• Meals : $12 – $15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast.
• Accommodation: $14 – $25 per night in a hostel
• Transportation: $2 – $5 for a full day of train rides within the city, or $10 – $15 for an intercity train ride.
• SIM card with data : Get a Baltic SIM card for $7 for 3GB with 30-day validity

THE AMERICAS

24. mexico, $42/day.

From Tulum to Baja California , Mexico is full of endless adventures . This vast country is rich in culture, nature, and some of the best food in the world. Though the country does not have the best reputation as far as safety goes , most violence takes place in certain areas, and Mexico is a big country with plenty of safe places to explore . Now the good news? It’s easy to travel in Mexico on a budget. For less than $20, you will be able to explore at least 5 stunning cenotes , like the one in the picture above; for less than $3, you can devour delicious street food like tacos (I LOVE tacos), quesadillas and tortillas; the white sand beaches are essentially free, and the hospitality? Priceless.

While getting around within a city is cheap, intercity traveling in Mexico can be costly, mainly because of how big the country is. The best case scenario is to rent a car , which costs about $50 – $70 per day and split between 4 people. If you are backpacking Mexico solo , try to stay in the same place for a longer time to stretch the transportation costs out. That way, you are able to travel deeper and experience authentic Mexico, too.

• Meals: $8 – $15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast
• Accommodation: $10 – $17 per night in a hostel ( click here for the best hotels in Tulum )
• Transportation: $3 – $5 for a full day of bus and train rides, or $30 – $50 for an intercity bus ride (yikes!)
• SIM card with data: $10 for 2GB with a 30-day validity

Solo female travel guide to Mexic o

A complete guide to Mexico

25. Nicaragua, $35/day

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest Central American destinations to travel in, although it’s not likely to stay that way for much longer. The country is nicknamed as the next Costa Rica , and we all know what that means. For now, the country remains affordable, fun, and interesting so go before the prices go up and before mass tourism hits.

For outdoor lovers, Nicaragua is great for surfing, volcano hiking, and diving. For a more relaxing journey, the colonial cities are beautiful to take a stroll in, and there are plenty of gorgeous beaches to lie all day on. Food is cheap and delicious albeit repetitive. There are hostels all over the country so you don’t have to worry about finding cheap accommodation. One thing to note is that there is unfortunately safety concerns in the country, so check the official advisory site and be your own judge before going.

• Meals: $6 – $10 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast
• Accommodation : $5 – $15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $3 – $5 for a full day of chicken bus rides, or $8 – $15 for an intercity bus ride
• SIM card with data : $12 for 1GB with a 30-day validity

26. Guatemala, $38/day

For an amazing Central American adventure on a budget, check out Guatemala. A visit to Guatemala is no complete without seeing the beautiful Lake Atitlán , but that’s not all – the country is covered in lush jungles, volcanos, and ruins, perfect for outdoor lovers. When you need a break from outdoor sports, colonial cities like Antigua or unique spots like Hobbitenango will capture your heart with their stunning architecture and cobblestone streets. Local food is delicious and cheap at about $3 for a full meal (except in Antigua, where prices are actually close to US levels).

Local transportation can be very cheap but at times confusing and risky. The locals typically take the chicken buses, which are converted school buses from North America, and are the cheapest way to get around. The buses do not have specific stops, nor is there a board with prices on it. Instead, people simply wave the buses down, and pay the collector money. Watch how much the locals are paying and pay the same.

• Accommodation : $10 – $15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation: $1 – $3 for a full day of chicken bus rides, or $5 – $10 for an intercity bus ride
• SIM card with data: $13 for 2GB with a 30-day validity

27. Colombia, $35/day

A colorful destination with a dark past, Colombia is fast becoming a popular affordable destination. If you are a history geek, you will love the museums and historical sites in Bogota, the Lost City, and beyond. If you are into nature, the Amazon awaits. As for diving enthusiasts, Colombia also boasts some of the world’s best diving sites and gorgeous beaches. With accommodation, transportation and food being so affordable, you will have room for some occasional splurges – consider booking a luxurious villa for a night or two, you won’t get a deal this great anywhere else in this part of the world!

• Meals: $10 – $15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast
• Accommodation : $8 – $12 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $1 – $3 for a full day of bus rides, or $10 – $50 for an intercity bus ride (be sure to check the domestic flights which can sometimes be cheaper than buses)
• SIM card with data : $13 for 2GB with a 30-day validity

28. Arizona & Utah (for a road trip!), $45/day

While the US is generally not a super budget destination, if you are doing a road trip, you can definitely save in some areas and splurge in others to even out your overall budget. For my American Southwest road trip , I spent an average of $110/day , which included a camper van rental, food, gas, camping, plus little splurges here and there. Now, it was definitely more expensive because I was solo. If you had just one other person, you’d be able to split the costs almost perfectly in half. If you had two other people along, take it down to one third and so on. The more, the merrier (until you run out of room and start elbowing each other).

Some quick tips on saving money:

• Get a national park pass and for $80, you will be able to get a carload of people into any national park in the US for an entire year.
• Rent a camper van if you are renting a car. Then your accommodation apart from the van fee can be absolutely free by camping only on BLM land .
• Cook your own meals! Again, renting a camper van with kitchen facilities will enable this and save you a lot of money
• Meals : $12 – $15/day
• Accommodation : free
• Transportation : $9/day for a camper van split between 4 people
• SIM card with data : $35 for 1GB with a 30-day validity

A complete guide to Utah

A complete guide to Arizona

29. South Africa, $42/day

If you are traveling on USD or Euro, the exchange rate alone will do you a big favor. At this time of writing, 1 South African Rand is equal to 6 cents US. Any hostels/guesthouse/tourist accommodation in South Africa is called a “backpackers”, and they are typically in beautiful settings and each has a unique personality, not to mention affordable too . Food is where the big budget eater or saver can be, as it can get expensive in South Africa. To save money, cook your own food. Grocery stores are plentiful and have reasonable prices. By at least cooking your own breakfast and the occasional dinner, you can save a lot of money.

Unfortunately, public transportation outside of Johannesburg and Cape Town can be pretty limited. While there are a few private companies and trains that all provide transportation around the country, the best (and possibly) cheapest way to get around the country is to rent a car and share with 3 other people, and go on an epic road trip together.

• Meals : $12 – $15 per day
• Accommodation : $14 – $18 per night in a “backpackers”
• Transportation : $9 per day for a camper van split between 4 people

What does it cost to travel in South Africa?

A complete guide to South Africa

30. Namibia, $45/day

Namibia is home to some of the world’s most spectacular views including  the gorgeous Sossusvlei , the hauntingly beautiful Deadvlei, and the massive Fish River Canyon, just to name a few. At first glance, Namibia may not seem like a budget destination, as most accommodations cater to the luxury category, and transportation availability from one place to another can be limited in such a vast country. However, you just need to do things a little bit differently to save a lot of money.

The most important thing is to choose to camp instead of staying in a lodge. The luxury lodges cost about $50 – $200 per night, but you can camp at their campsites for about $8 – $10 per night. Camping at the government campsites will set you back about $15 – $18 per night. As for transportation, ideally you would want to rent a 4×4 and share it with a few people to split the cost. If your accommodation comes with a communal kitchen, make full use of it as cooking your own meals will definitely save you money. Entrance fees are generally cheap!

• Accommodation : $8 – $18 per night
• Transportation : $15 – $18 per day for a 4×4 split between 4 people
• SIM card with data: $16 for 1.5GB with a 60-day validity

The perfect Namibia road trip itinerary

A complete guide to Namibia

How Low Can You Go?

The suggested budget above includes basic accommodation, transportation, and 3 meals with a mix of simple breakfasts, hearty lunches, and light dinners, as well as Internet and 1 paid activity for the day. You will need to add on the other costs like shopping, alcohol, little splurges here and there to understand how much exactly is needed.

Some may want to dive or ski, which are typically higher cost activities, and some just want to walk around and explore the local neighborhoods. If you are on a shoestring budget, the suggested budgets can be cut down further should you choose to couchsurf, hitchhike, and skip certain activities.

Are there any that you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!

The Only Packing List You’ll Ever Need (for the Entire World)

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Nicoline says

01/03/2019 at 11:00 pm

There are so many of these places I would love to visit or revisit. Especially a Namibian road trip is on top of my bucket list and I hope that I can do it this year. 42$ per day is alright and the flight tickets from Denmark aren’t that bad right now – it must be a sign! ?

Kristin says

01/05/2019 at 9:12 am

It must be!

01/04/2019 at 9:09 pm

Bosnia is one of the cheapest places in Europe with so much to see! It’s a good deal cheaper than its neighbor Croatia.

Good to know! Thank you!

Anonymous says

04/25/2021 at 5:55 pm

Absolutely! Go hungry!! Food is excellent too!!

Jessa L says

06/10/2019 at 2:35 am

Excellent info but main thought regarding SE Asia, especially regarding Vietnamese street food: #1 many foreigners do not have the gut bacteria to fight off many forms of food poisoning that occurs from street food. #2 All the food in SE Asia has loads of MSG which immediately makes it NOT healthy. Sorry but there’s no cheap Vietnamese that can be considered healthy with the amount of MSG they put in the food. Tasty, yes. Addictive, yes. Healthy, ummm nope.

06/10/2019 at 6:54 am

Fact checking this. #1: The food is mostly bought fresh from the market each day and cooked right in front of you. If you go to a stand with lots of people eating there, you can trust it’s good for you, too. I have never had food poisoning after 7 years of traveling and eating street food. #2: I’ve seen the food made fresh from each raw ingredient and I also know what MSG looks like. I’ve seen it on the stands in China but not in Veitnam. I think it really depends on which stand you eat from, and if you’re worried about MSG the restaurants you eat at can just as easily, if not more easily, add it to the food. I wouldn’t avoid street food because of these reasons. Tourist restaurants serve the same thing, but often less fresh, for more money and you DON’T see it cooked in front of you.

09/09/2019 at 11:01 pm

I agree with your comments Kristen, its also easy to ask and or learn the local word to say dont put it in as a lot of stands will add a little MSG for “extra flavour”

01/17/2023 at 3:56 am

‘Hoom, Hoom, Ajinomoto’, is what to say if you don’t want MSG

Marissa says

01/20/2020 at 12:45 pm

Agreed. Kristen

Daniel says

01/11/2024 at 9:22 am

I am a US Citizen and often travel to Vietnam at least once a year and I believe you have no idea what you’re talking about. Do not eat food sold on the street or others food stands around the corner. You have no idea what they did to the pre-made ingredients that are served to you in front of you. Most of them do not even have gloves while handling YOUR foods. Most of the times, ingredients are prepared somewhere else and none are monitored as far as food safety is concerned. Anyone can prepare foods without any inspections or licenses requirements and sell to the public whenever, where ever they want!!! Rotten meats are often used to make egg rolls by adding artificial flavorings and fried until the bad smell is gone. Food stands are notorious for being dirty and contaminated badly because they do not have enough clean water to wash or sanitize utensils used to handle their foods. There was a big issue in Vietnam recently when a street vendor was caught “recycling” leftover from the previous customer and sell it to the next customer… Just google about food safety standards in Vietnam and you’ll know.

Kristin Addis says

01/11/2024 at 4:08 pm

If there’s a long line of locals eating there, and they’re bringing their kids there, I’m also going to eat there.

04/19/2020 at 11:09 pm

You clearly dont have a clue abour vietnamese food..they are not into Msg…dont get confuse them with China Mf

06/07/2020 at 10:28 pm

Jessa, I think you should educate yourself before taking such a strong opinion on MSG because you clearly don’t have your facts straight. Vietnamese food is pretty healthy whether or not there is MSG in it. MSG alone is simply not bad for you.

If you don’t believe me read this article:

https://health.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/articles/2018-10-10/scientists-have-known-msg-is-safe-for-decades-why-dont-most-americans

07/29/2021 at 8:16 pm

So safe it will puff many up like a puffer fish. So safe.

Hugo Lindum says

02/07/2022 at 6:15 am

Street food is about as safe as it gets. Rarely had problems, nor do most people. As for MSG being bad, it must be the most researched food product in human history and no peer reviewed researched shows there is anything wrong with it. Even the EU says its safe. MSG being unsafe is up there with antivax and Elvis being alive on the moon.

12/21/2023 at 1:14 pm

i think it sounds really delicious and MSG is very healthy for you

Jonene Oxford says

02/25/2023 at 3:45 pm

Wish I could add the scientific info on here about MSG not being bad for your health. You should read up on it. You’d be surprised

Mohsen Ghiasi says

06/14/2019 at 7:48 am

Whay you dont write iran at the top man, its cheapest in the world with much more facility.

06/15/2019 at 9:17 am

As an American I can’t go there without taking a tour so to me it’s not that cheap, unfortunately 🙁

mark doty says

07/01/2020 at 6:18 pm

who in their right mind would go to Iran?

09/23/2020 at 1:33 pm

I lived there in the 70s and would love to go back to hike the mountains and ski again. Maybe someday.

02/07/2022 at 6:16 am

I would go there in the 1970s in a heart-beat. But today is 2022.

06/18/2019 at 7:45 am

Great list! Makes my bank account seem all that bigger 😉

06/18/2019 at 9:12 am

06/19/2019 at 9:36 am

Great list! You have been very helpful in getting some unique options together for a Christmas getaway for my husband and I! Although we will probably do AirBnB places instead of hostels, I feel like I have a much better idea of how far our money will go and tips on how to avoid being overcharged.

The biggest expense for me is always the flights since we live in Colorado, but I did find a really good website that has given me fares below what places like Expedia can offer called Skiplagged. If you haven’t checked it out, it can definitely save you some $$! I’m not affiliated with them or anything. Just thought I’d put it out there for other savvy travelers like me who are looking for the best deals!

06/19/2019 at 10:09 am

Thanks Lissa! I’d also suggest travel hacking! I have tips here: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/how-to-fly-for-free/

Leena Malhotra says

06/23/2019 at 1:28 am

What about Russia ?

Russia is on my list for next year – it has so much to explore but can’t make it in a single trip. How about Russia from India ?

06/23/2019 at 9:45 am

I have heard the cities in Russia can be quite expensive but a few years ago the Ruble fell in value quite a bit which has made it much more affordable.

07/11/2019 at 5:59 am

Nice list. I am planning for Ukraine. Any specific suggestions

08/02/2019 at 12:27 pm

I have been to Ukraine many times so here is a rundown.

Kiev the capital historical city and very beautiful. Liviv cultural capital with some of the best food. Odessa seaside vacation hub and center of comedy.

Each city offers so much to see and do.

These are the cities that you are more likely find someone who speaks english, however I would recommend learning a couple of phrases. The people are hospitable but there still a language barrier.

08/03/2019 at 5:14 am

Thanks for the info!

07/17/2019 at 1:56 pm

Tanzania is pretty cheap too and the people here are very welcoming! You should try it out.

07/18/2019 at 12:05 pm

Agreed I love it there.

Brad Carss says

07/30/2019 at 6:57 pm

I love Namibia and persisted in my efforts to visit the Himba People in Opuwo by catching a taxi from my hostel in Windhoek to the pickup point for the van taking locals to the north of the country. There I arranged with the local tour hut (John Jakurama) to go on day and an overnight visit to the villages of these rarely visited people. It was a very cost-effective and engaging interaction to experience the harsh reality of their lives. At the end of my stay the elder of the family kissed my hand in blessing for seeking his village out and bringing them much needed food stuffs and supplies. My kind of travel, cheap, interactive, moving and low priority on most people’s destinations.

Augustin says

08/03/2019 at 2:16 am

You had already mentioned about a lot of places with less expensive, but the matter is that the flight charges are not economical to many of the destinations. I am from India and feel affordable rates with some southeastern Asian countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, loas, Burma, Vietnam and Sri Lanka. The flight charges to these places are about 100 US Dollars with Air Asia flights, but it is really too high to Europe, Africa or America. This makes trips costlier. Anyway it is good exploring one.

08/03/2019 at 5:13 am

That’s true, I’m not taking into consideration where you might be flying in from, since we are all coming from different places, but once you get there it’s cheaper than other countries like Norway or Iceland.

08/03/2019 at 3:12 am

Hi! I have travelled before, I worked for a long haul airline and spent a few days in most countries. However, I really want to travel properly. What place would you recommend for newbie backpackers? Do you have any tips for me? Thanks 🙂

08/03/2019 at 5:12 am

Southeast Asia! https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/best-countries-for-beginner-travelers/

MikesRoadTrip says

08/05/2019 at 7:14 am

Really great piece!

08/17/2019 at 12:14 pm

It seems you generated this list based on where you went. I’m surprised Belorus, Russia, Abkhazia, Azerbaijan are not there

08/17/2019 at 12:19 pm

I haven’t been to most of these places, actually, but thanks for sharing more places that are affordable!

08/30/2019 at 7:47 pm

Pakistan is another beautiful country to visit and also very cheap. The Northern parts of Pakistan are full of natural beauty. People of Pakistan are very friendly and when you go there you will be amazed to find out that country is so different than what it is portrayed in NEWS. The hospitality of people there is simply amazing and food is simply awesome. Highly recommended place to visit.

09/02/2019 at 9:50 am

I’d love to visit!

Marianne says

10/09/2019 at 3:24 am

Hi! My boyfriend and I took a year off to travel Asia, and about 4 months in we have spent wayyy too much money (oops). We would like to settle down somewhere cheap for a month to try and make up for it. We are hoping to find somewhere close to the beach where the food is good. If there were some (free or cheap) things to do and see so we wouldn’t be too bored that would be even better. Does such a place even exist? ? I was thinking Cambodia, maybe, or Vietnam (cause I love Vietnamese food) but really anywhere in SE Asia would be perfect. Do you have any suggestions for a specific place like that you really loved?

Also, I love this blog, I have probably visited daily in the couple of years leading up to our trip ?

10/09/2019 at 10:22 am

Hey Marianne. It happens! I’d look at Southeast Asia for sure. I’d thought about Hoi An personally. The food is good, wifi is fast, it’s cheap. You can also think about Cambodia or even southern Thailand. You could think about Kuta in Lombok, Indonesia as well. Such a place definitely exists 🙂

Keep in mind it’s usually much cheaper to go check things out in person and ask around for places to rent longer term than it is to try to find them online.

Ian Culbertson says

10/13/2019 at 5:15 pm

Hi Kristin, I’d really like to do Incan trail in Peru to MP in December, any advice on tours for doing routes less traveled? Thanks Ian

10/19/2019 at 12:02 pm

If you want to do the Inca Trail unfortunately there’s just one trail and it’s not less-traveled, but there’s also the Lares trek and the Salkantay which will end up in Machu Picchu. I liked Alpaca Expeditions for the Inca Trail.

marla braden says

11/09/2019 at 11:18 am

I second Alpaca Expeditions. I did the Inca trail in December, not really high season. I got tickets when I got to Cusco (not 6 months advance) and our group of maybe 10 people plus the guides and porters were the only people I saw for 4 days until we arrived at Machu Picchu itself. Off season is the way to go anywhere, imo.

11/10/2019 at 11:36 am

Wow that’s amazing! Definitely wasn’t my experience. Nicely planned.

Renuka Walter says

12/06/2019 at 5:13 am

That’s a great list! I’m glad India is on the list. I have been exploring it for a decade now, and I agree it’s affordable and so rewarding! Would love to experience Romania.

12/06/2019 at 11:06 am

I’d love to experience India!

Md. Shakhawat Hossain says

01/08/2020 at 11:31 am

Hello there, Thank you very much for sharing a nice as well as the well-informative article here. The information you have described herewith was really amazing! However, if you allow me to add one more place to must-visit I would be glad, and the place name Bangladesh. The place of natural beauty and many more. And, also very cheap.

Thank you very much.

01/08/2020 at 7:01 pm

I’d love to go! Yes it should be on the list.

neymasport says

01/14/2020 at 8:18 pm

Thank you for sharing the colorful collection here, thank you for this article. This country is very beautiful. Hope to come here and try it once  

Nikola Webster says

01/22/2020 at 6:10 pm

Hi there, Wow – super-comprehensive list! I’ve been to more than half on this list. A couple I have on my list to visit that I’m told a super cheap (even cheaper than India) are Pakistan and Bangladesh. I’ve also heard Laos is wicked cheap! Nikki

01/22/2020 at 8:12 pm

I’d love to see Pakistan too! Laos is indeed pretty cheap.

Doona Neace says

02/04/2020 at 1:44 am

You recommended most of the places are on my list. Next year I want to visit Croatia and Turkey.

02/15/2020 at 6:31 pm

This is such a great list which really breaks down the costs and saves a lot of research time! Thanks for sharing.

02/16/2020 at 10:55 am

Thanks for such a great post! And thanks for sharing your valuable experiences. I already traveled to Most of EA countries but i have no any idea for african and S. American countries, i will use this post for my future plan.

05/03/2020 at 11:11 am

Wow, that’s article is amazing. I did not know that you can travel to places this cheap. This article chsnge the way I look at traveling. I have always thought it costly as I spend a lot when traveling, but after reading this things have changed.

takeoffwithme says

05/08/2020 at 7:21 am

Very nice article. Will be really helpful for backpackers

Vaishnavi Omprakash Jadhav says

07/08/2020 at 4:38 am

There is lot more in INDIA. Do come. We have a lot more than expected.

Samson says

08/21/2020 at 5:38 am

How is the Covid-19 situation there?

08/21/2020 at 5:39 am

How is the Covid-19 situation in India?

08/29/2020 at 4:32 am

Great article. Thanks

Greg Christensen says

09/03/2020 at 9:11 am

Recently did southern Utah (from OH) for 6 weeks and spent 9000 dolllars … that’s about 200 dollars per day. Gasoline 1500 (8000 miles), hotels and campsites 1200, NP pass and BLM trail fees 100, topo maps/books/gifts 400, my own jeep routine and unexpected service 500, jeep rubicon 4WD 10 day rental for The Maze 1950, 4WD and backpacking supplies 400, laundry 50, food/beverages/snacks/water 2900. Biggest expenses are always food from restaurants and the remote expensive trips that are hard to access.

09/03/2020 at 9:40 am

Yes restaurants can be a lot. If you have to rent the 4×4 yes that really adds up!

Amogue says

09/15/2020 at 3:54 am

all this country are awesome I am going ti visit vietnam after the covid situation

10/09/2020 at 2:22 pm

Maybe Nicaragua is not safe, but I think it’s way safer than Guatemala. Please, be careful if planning to travel to any of this countries. Specially women travelling alone.

Michelle says

11/30/2020 at 12:03 pm

Yes, very surprised you didn’t include Morocco! Marrakech (or Casablanca) can get expensive if you want the most luxurious accommodations/prefer gambling, but overall a very cheap country to travel. You can get around easily if you wish to visit multiple cities, for as little as $8 or so intercity. (overnight sleeper trains will cost a bit more) You can even fly from Madrid or Lisbon to Marrakech for around $100 if you know where to look 🙂 I’d say to definitely visit Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen if you are not sure where to travel. Stay in riads or hostels. Walk around the souks, and take in all the sights the cities have to offer. Getting to the desert is a little more difficult and costly, but worth the experience if it is something you have always dreamed of doing!

12/03/2020 at 8:57 am

Good to know!

Catherine says

05/16/2021 at 5:54 am

India very risky for woman, last time I went there was groped, not once but multiple times. In india get used to man staring at your cleavage, boobs and ass all the time.

01/12/2023 at 8:24 pm

Did that happen in North India?

08/17/2023 at 3:52 am

Only in Punjab . Rest of India is very safe

Linniey???? says

05/22/2021 at 7:51 pm

Thank you for sharing… Very interesting and nice places for backpakers… South Korea is also very cheap and beautiful nature for nature lovers… ????

Tina Hallmark says

07/15/2021 at 2:27 pm

I know you are already bogged down with reply’s and on to your next adventure but I wanted to pick your brain. Myself, husband and our daughter, age 10 want to spend a month next year in another country (if all goes well, we may make it into an annual thing). We are great outdoors, we love food, we love history and love animals and we are all well traveled. We would like to pick our first month long trip for June 2022 (climate has to be below average of 85 degrees F). Basically we can’t decide on where we should go to stay around 10k for all 3 of us and how best planning for a month in a country. Any insight would be wonderful! We have thought about Bali/Philippians, Greece or Italy but I saw you mention Namibia and that sounds wonderful too! PS We do not want to stay in hostiles. Thank you for any information you may want to send our way! Tina

07/17/2021 at 12:40 pm

I’m not sure all of those places fall under your temperature requirements but it really depends on what kind of experience you want. I think they could all be wonderful.

02/20/2022 at 4:29 pm

03/01/2022 at 11:02 pm

Excuse me, but Georgia is not in Europe!! It is part of the Caucasus, which is in Asia. And as for Vietnam & most of southeast asia, can we say KRAITS!!! You fail to mention this very big danger…many people have gotten bitten by these snakes and died! Last but not least, that chicken or pork you get in Taiwan and China: might be DOG or CAT!!! Think about that B4 you scarf down just any streetfood!!

03/02/2022 at 11:19 am

lol I don’t think they’re eating cat or dog in Taiwan and I don’t know a soul who has been bitten by that snake you mention.

12/21/2023 at 1:21 pm

John im glad you got all your anger out on this message but no one really cares and all u did was waste everyones time thanks a lot JOHN!!

07/14/2022 at 9:22 pm

Ukraine really?

07/23/2022 at 11:50 am

Prior to the current situation it was a great place to travel, and it will be again one day.

Grace Christopher says

01/22/2023 at 9:01 am

I would love if someone can put me through how to go about the process of applying to any of the country mentioned above. That is work visa

01/26/2023 at 6:38 am

Hi I am planning to travel to Greece combined with some islands. Could you please tell me more about which places and accommodations you recommend and suggest. I will be traveling with my 21 year old son .

07/01/2023 at 9:54 am

Hi Nora: Recommend looking at this great BMYM post: 31 of the Absolute Best Things to Do in Greece It includes a huge variety of things to do which I am sure your 21 year old son would enjoy too! Also, in BMTM website, click on “Destinations” at the top of this page and pick “Greece” and it has other great resources! Good luck!

Austin A. McCary says

06/02/2023 at 8:27 pm

This article on the cheapest destinations to travel to is a goldmine of budget travel inspiration! I appreciate the thorough breakdown of affordable destinations across different continents. The inclusion of budget-friendly activities and accommodation options is incredibly helpful for planning a cost-effective trip. I’m excited to explore some of these destinations that offer incredible experiences without breaking the bank. Thanks for sharing this valuable resource!

Budget trips: 20 of the cheapest places to travel

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That ever-growing travel wish list might be putting pressure on your pocket – but there are plenty of destinations where you'll get more bang for your buck. From Greece to Guatemala , here are 20 of the cheapest places to travel.

1. Thailand — for fantastic local food and more

2. south africa for safari adventures at an incredible value, 3. vietnam for an affordable country with a lot to offer, 4. uruguay — for a budget destination with beaches, 5. cuba: a cheap destination with very few tourists.

• 6. Prague, Czech Republic — one of Europe's most affordable destinations

7. Greece for popular tourist destinations on a budget

8. guatemala: one of the cheapest countries to learn spanish, 9. bulgaria for an underrated tourist destination, 10. india: an all-time favourite for budget travellers, 11. portugal for a cheap country in western europe, 12. bolivia for natural beauty on a budget, 13. mexico: one of the cheapest places to travel, 14. new orleans — one of the cheapest major cities in the usa, 15. laos for national parks and more, 16. the gambia for a cheap destination with nature, 17. shanghai, china for delicious street food, 18. save money in istanbul, turkey, 19. london — for free things to do in a capital city, 20. egypt for one of the most memorable cheap travel destinations, plan your perfect trip.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget — your essential guide to making the most of this great region without breaking the bank. You might also want to discover how to explore the world's most expensive city without breaking the bank — find out how to visit Tel Aviv on a budget .

There’s a reason why Thailand remains so popular with backpackers. It’s got idyllic islands , a rich culture, beach huts aplenty, tantalising local food and adventures galore , and all are available at often staggeringly low prices.

Despite the well-trodden routes through the country, it’s not hard to get away from the crowds. Check out Nakhon Si Thammarat for some of the very best food the country has to offer or hire a motorbike to make the 600km trip along the Mae Hong Son Loop through the forested northern mountains. See why Thailand made our list of the best places to travel alone.

Find budget places to stay in Thailand

The Great Holy Relics Pagoda Nabhapolbhumisiri, Chiang Mai, Thailand - still one of the cheapest places to travel © Shutterstock

One of the great things about travelling in South Africa next to the beautiful landscapes is that it’s possible to have a safari experience here – complete with the Big Five – without encountering a budget-breaking bill. Head to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi to see a white rhino and avoid the crowds of Kruger .

Head to the Drakensberg for superlative hiking. Don’t forget to factor in at least a few days in the amazing Cape Town or Johannesburg to experience the nightlife in South Africa .

Start planning your trip with the best time to visit South Africa and our collection of the best South Africa itineraries .

Find budget places to stay in South Africa

Cape Town — popular with budget travellers © Mark Van Overmeire/Shutterstock

Vietnam is one of the best and cheapest places to travel. The country’s greatest attraction is its sublime countryside, from the limestone karsts of the north to the waterways and paddy fields of the Mekong Delta , with blissful beaches and frenetic cities crammed in between - see our reader's vote for the most beautiful places in Vietnam .

Then there’s the cuisine – pull up a stool at a pho stall and for just a few dollars you’ll eat some of the best food on offer, shoulder to shoulder with the locals. Check out our 9 tips for backpacking Vietnam and the best time to visit Vietnam , plus discover how to get off the tourist trail before you go.

Street Pho - Vietnam street food options make it a great cheap place to travel © JNEZAM/Shutterstock

If you’ve already visited Brazil and Argentina , or are just looking for a better value destination in South America, head instead to neighbouring Uruguay. You’ll be relieved to hear you can still find excellent steak here and some amazing restaurants .

Plus, there are plenty of lovely beaches to choose from – head to Cabo Polonio for quieter sands and abundant wildlife – and the gorgeous old capital of Montevideo. Want to learn more? You'll find all the information you need to plan a budget trip in our Rough Guide to South America on a Budget .

Find budget places to stay in Uruguay

Uruguay. Punta del Este - a great place to go on a tight travel budget © Chaykovsky Igor/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Since relations between Cuba and the US started rapidly warming up, there's never been a better time to visit this Caribbean island. Go now before it changes beyond recognition – and before the prices start to go up and up even more.

Hit the salsa clubs of Havana , get caught up in the heady July carnival of Santiago, or dip your toes in the warm Caribbean at one of the picture-perfect beaches in Cuba – whatever you do, you’ll find it hard not to leave utterly intoxicated.

Get started with these 12 tips for backpacking Cuba , the best places to go on your first trip to Cuba and the best time to visit Cuba .

Cuba is a great place for cheap travel © Pixabay

6. Prague, Czech Republic — one of Europe's most affordable destinations

Despite being firmly on the tourist – not to mention bachelor party – trail these days, Prague still remains one of Europe’s cheapest capital cities to visit. For just a few Czech Crowns you can enjoy a hearty meal of Czech food , washed down with decent local Czech beer (of course).

The city itself is a beauty, crammed full of history and perfect for leisurely explorations by foot - check here to see how to avoid the crowds in Prague , and a great train travel itinerary starting in Prague. Want to explore more of Europe on the cheap? Check out The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget .

Where to stay in Prague

• For Baroque touches with a view : Questenberk
• For gardens and views: Golden Well Hotel
• For budget stays : Adeba Hotel

Find places to stay on a budget in Prague

Save money when travelling to Prague © Shutterstock

Greece has been having a tough time economically in the past few years. It finally started trading on financial markets in mid-2018 after years of bailouts, but for many, making ends meet day-to-day is still hard.

If anything, the financial situation is all the more reason to travel here and to support the local people. Prices are still cheaper than they once were, so you might be able to squeeze an extra Greek island or one of the beautiful beaches into your itinerary.

Pay by credit card for whatever you can in advance, but take enough cash with you for your travels, and you’re pretty much guaranteed an amazing trip. Read our indispensable travel tips for Greece by Nick Edwards, co-author of The Rough Guide to Greece , before you go - and of course, the best Greek food you need to try.

Find budget places to stay in Greece

Greece — one of the best budget destinations © Anastasios71/Shutterstock

It’s hard not to fall under the spell of Guatemala and its compelling mix of natural beauty, Mayan traditions and colonial legacies. Rock-bottom prices make this one of the best places to study Spanish.

Once your linguistic skills are up to scratch, jump onto one of the country’s famous camionetas or “chicken buses” to explore. Soak up the sights of graceful Antigua in the south of the country, explore Guatemala City or be wowed by the monumental Maya temples of Tikal .

For planning your trip , check out the best time to travel to Guatemala . It's also easy to extend your trip to see more of Central America, too.

Find budget places to stay in Guatemala

Guatemala for affordable accommodation and more © Shutterstock

Often unfairly overlooked, Bulgaria has a lot to offer budget travellers – not least some of the most deserted beaches in Europe, at bargain prices. In addition to its appealing coastline, there are also lots of lovely old towns.

One of the best and cheapest places to travel is Varna on the coast. Or the ancient Plovdiv — which made our Rough Guide list of the Best Places to Travel this year. Bulgaria also boasts a number of dramatic mountain ranges that are perfect for exploration on foot or by bike.

Find budget places to stay in Bulgaria

The underrated country of Bulgaria © Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock

India is such a vast country and remains one of the ultimate destinations among the cheapest places to travel. There are few countries where you can still travel so extensively and eat so well for so little.

If you’re after a beach break, eschew Goa for the gorgeous beaches of the temple town of Gokarna. For amazing food, it’s hard to beat the puris and kebabs of Mumbai’s street stalls or head to the Golden City of Jaisalmer from where you can explore the seemingly endless sands of the Thar Desert. Need more inspiration? Check out our favourite places off the tourist trail .

Varanasi, India © Shutterstock

Portugal remains one of the best bargains in Western Europe and is especially worth considering if you want to avoid the more crowded resorts and cities of Spain. Skip the Algarve for the ruggedly beautiful Alentejo coast (with its cheap, fresh seafood) and vibrant, uber-cool Lisbon. If you're not sure where to start, read our top tips for travelling in Portugal and discover the best of Lisbon's food scene .

Find budget places to stay in Portugal

Portugal is arguably the cheapest country in Western Europe © Shutterstock

One of the cheapest places to travel in South America, Bolivia is also one of its most misunderstood . Travelling here may be a little uncomfortable at times, but it’s more than worth it for the wealth of amazing sights on offer.

Top of the list is undoubtedly the astounding Salar de Uyuni salt flats, a two or three-day tour of which will usually set you back less than £100/$150. Plan your trip with The Rough Guide to South America on a Budget , and be sure to try at least some of these best things to do in Bolivia .

Find budget places to stay in Bolivia

Salar de Uyuni - Bolivia is one of the cheapest places to travel in South America © Shutterstock

Your budget will definitely stretch to tacos and tequila aplenty in Mexico – which is great news as there’s a lot of ground to cover in this vibrant country.

Whether you want to string your hammock up along dazzling white sands, sample some of the country’s best street food in Oaxaca or cool off in a crystal-clear cenote (sunken swimming hole), the country will leave you eager to come back for more. To kick-start your wanderlust, these are 12 of our favourite places to visit in Mexico .

Find budget places to stay in Mexico

Zipolite beach, Oaxaca, Mexico © Shutterstock

You can’t escape from music in New Orleans – and with buskers on what often seems like every corner, and music in every courtyard and bar, it’s not hard to experience the city’s musical heritage without spending much more than the price of a beer.

The city is best experienced slowly, and on foot; it’s hard to beat people-watching over a cup of coffee and a plate of sugar-dusted beignets at the Café du Monde. Find out where to sample the city's top cocktails with our best bar guide .

Where to stay in New Orleans

• For a budget-conscious alternative: Hotel Provincial
• For classic New Orleans charm: Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter

Find budget places to stay in New Orleans

Bourbon St, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Even in a region of the cheapest places to travel, Laos stands out. It’s hard not to be captivated by the slow pace of the country.

Head just north of elegant Luang Prabang to riverside Nong Khiaw, where for a small change you can bag a waterside bungalow and watch the boats travel up and down the karst-surrounded river over a cold bottle of Beer Lao. Get the full lowdown on this enchanting and unspoiled corner of Southeast Asia with The Rough Guide to Laos .

Find budget places to stay in Laos

Laos is famous for its national parks and more © akedesign/Shutterstock

Africa’s smallest country is already known for its beautiful beaches, but it’s well worth venturing beyond them to experience its other delights . Top of the list has to be the Chimp Rehabilitation Centre in the River Gambia National Park, where you can watch the primates in their natural habitat.

For birdlife, Baobolong Wetland Reserve is arguably the best place for ornithology on the continent and is at its most atmospheric at sunset. Read on for 8 off-the-beaten-track experiences in the Gambia.

Find budget places to stay in The Gambia

Gambia is Africa's smallest country © Dave Montreuil/Shutterstock

The biggest appeal for budget – if not all travellers – to Shanghai is undoubtedly the abundance of amazing street food on offer, from xiao long bao soup dumplings to scallion pancakes and sticky rice parcels ( zongzi ).

It’s still possible to find an accommodation bargain at the lower end of the scale, and much of the city’s appeal lies in exploring its busy streets on foot and experiencing for yourself the juxtaposition between old and new China. You'll find recommendations for where to find the city's best street eats and budget sleeps in The Rough Guide to Shanghai .

Find budget places to stay in Shanghai

Shanghai for street food and more © Shutterstock

With one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, Istanbul is undeniably alluring. Though seeing all the major sights – the Aya Sofya, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace to name but a few – can quickly eat into your lira, the city can still be great for tighter budgets.

Arguably the best ways to really soak up the city are from a Bosphorus ferry, wandering the streets of the Grand Bazaar or on a streetside terrace with a freshly-cooked kebab - read up our Turkish food guide before you go.

Where to stay in Istanbul

• For views: Hotel Poem
• For B&B: Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci
• For location: Boutique Saint Sophia

Find budget places to stay in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey © Shutterstock

First things first – we know London is not cheap. There’s no denying that even staying in hostels, using public transport and eating in cafés is going to massively eat into your budget.

But – and it’s a big but – there are few places in the world that can rival the capital city for its plethora of free sights, where you can see the Rosetta Stone and the Lindow Man, works by Monet and Dalí, not to mention dinosaur and blue whale skeletons, for absolutely nothing. Get off on the right foot by choosing the right area to stay .

Find budget places to stay in London

Hampstead Heath during the summer months in London © Chris Seddon/Shutterstock

Considering the abundance of mind-blowing ancient sights, you’d expect travel to Egypt to cost a lot more than it does. Sure, if you tick off all the major attractions – including the Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings and Abu Simbel – then costs are going to creep up, but tempered with cheap (and excellent) food and decent budget accommodation, it’s not hard to feel like you’re almost able to live like a Pharaoh.

Note, that due to safety concerns some governments currently advise against travel to certain parts of the country; check the latest advice before you go.

Find budget places to stay in Egypt

Egypt is a fantastic travel destination © Shutterstock

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14 TOP cheapest countries to visit as a Worldpackers volunteer

14 of the most affordable destinations around the world. These countries are full of culture, history, and natural beauty, and they can all be explored on a backpacker budget.

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Mar 04, 2024

After the numerous lockdowns and border closures of 2020, people all over the world are dying to get out and travel. We’ve all spent so much time stuck at home, reading, watching movies, and scanning social media, intrigued by photos and videos of beautiful, far-off places. Seasoned travelers like myself are itching to book a flight somewhere as soon as borders re-open. And there are plenty of novice travelers who have never felt more inspired to go see the world.

Lots of people are trying to get back on their feet financially. Luckily, traveling the world can be insanely cheap if you visit the right places! There are lots of gorgeous destinations in the world that make excellent vacations, but they don’t cost a fortune to visit. 

Read more articles about travel on a budget:

The 10 cheapest cities to live in the world

• The 12 cheapest places to travel in the USA right now

How to find cheap airfare anytime of year

So for anyone looking to plan a trip somewhere affordable , here are the cheapest countries to visit as volunteer 

14 Of the cheapest countries to visit

1. cambodia.

Southeast Asia is a notoriously cheap area to visit. It is also incredibly beautiful and filled with art, history, flavorful food, religious architecture, and mindblowing natural landscapes. 

Cambodia is probably the cheapest country to visit in Southeast Asia.  

Top things to do in Cambodia include visiting the magnificent ancient Khmer temples in Siem Reap and touring the museums and palaces in the capital city of Phnom Penh. 

A hostel in Cambodia can cost as little as 4 USD per night, and you can get a full meal for 1 USD.

If you're wondering if Cambodia is a safe place to visit , let me tell you that definitely is! Of course taking the usual safety precautions .

You can visit Cambodia as Worldpackers volunteer and help in some positions:

• Teach English for childrens in Cambodia
• Help in digital marketing for pepper farm in Kiriving, Cambodia

Laos is another affordable country in Southeast Asia . From the glittering Buddhist temples to the lush forests and waterfalls, this nation is perfect for history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

Monuments, palaces, temples, museums, shrines, and other stunning pieces of architecture can be found all over the country. 

There are also lots of picturesque waterfalls scattered around the landscape, including the Kuang Si Waterfall, the Khone and Pha Pheng Falls, the Tat Sae Falls, and more. 

Entry fees to all the best man-made and natural attractions usually only cost 1 or 2 USD, and many people can successfully travel around Laos for less than 30 USD per day.

You might also like:   The secret to travel the world for free (that no one tells you)  and The most unique places to stay for cheap around the world .

As one of the best countries in the world for street food, Vietnam should have a place on every foodie’s travel bucket list. 

The markets in Vietnam are outstanding; you can indulge in a wide variety of local dishes and barely spend more than a couple of USD. 

Vietnam is also famous for its unique natural attractions, including the limestone islands of Ha Long Bay and the world’s largest cave, Hang Son Doong. Accommodation and transportation are both very affordable here as well, contributing to why Vietnam is one of the cheapest Asian countries to visit.

Travel to Vietnam and help in Worldpackers positions:

• Collaborate in a children's NGO teaching languages and caring
• Teach English in Vietnam and know that cheap country in Asia 

4. Indonesia

Indonesia is a country in Southeast Asia composed of thousands of islands. This means is it incredibly diverse. You can visit the most popular island of Bali, or head to the quieter tourist islands such as Lombok, Java, or Sumbawa. 

Regardless, Indonesia is a very cheap country to travel to . It is wise to just pick a handful of islands and fully explore those, rather than hopping from island to island constantly and spending lots of money on transport.

But once you find a nice place and stick to it, you can eat delicious, flavorful local food and stay in fun hostels or guesthouses for 20-30 USD per day in total.

Travel to Indonesia and help in Worldpackers positions:

• Help to farm and teach English in a village surrounded by nature!

One of the cheapest countries to visit is Nepal. For adventurous travelers looking to explore the most remote corners of the globe, Nepal is a great place to go. It’s one of the cheapest Asian countries to visit outside of Southeast Asia. 

Many people come here to hike Mount Everest, but that is only for extremely fit and ambitious travelers, and with lots of money saved, because hiking Mount Everest is super expensive! But if you want to trek in some less touristy mountains, you can do so in Nepal for very cheap. 

Stay in cozy local guesthouses and eat home-cooked meals for just 10-20 USD per day or travel as a Worldpackers volunteer in Nepal .

• Help in a organic farm while travel around Nepal.
• Be a volunteer in a orphanege at Kathmandu, Nepal 

Keep reading: 10 cheap Spring Break trips for students on a budget  and  15 budget-savvy hacks to travel smarter in the new year

As far as African countries go, Morocco is one of the most affordable . It’s not as cheap as Southeast Asia, but it’s still overall one of the cheapest countries to visit if you can avoid the tourist traps. 

For example, Marrakech is a chaotic and colorful city in Morocco. Most travelers visit here to explore the massive Medina and to book tours into the Sahara Desert or the Atlas Mountains. 

Marrakech can be very cheap if you buy your food at local eateries instead of tourist restaurants in Jema El Fnaa, the main tourist square. Hostels around Morocco generally cost between 8 and 10 USD, and tours are affordable as well. 

Be sure to check out the Blue City of Chefchaouen, the beaches along the west coast, and of course, the mountains and the desert.

Travel to Morocco with Worldpackers :

• Be a volunteer at a Hostel in Marrakesh and travel around the Saara
• Help an animal sanctuary in Morocco

7. Nicaragua

If you’re living in the USA and you’d like to travel somewhere cheap, Central America is the place to go. 

From the low prices of food, accommodation, and activities, to the short and cheap flights to get there, Central America has some of the cheapest countries to visit from the USA. Nicaragua is a gorgeous country. 

Most travelers tend to congregate near San Juan Del Sur, a party beach town, or in the towns of Leon, Managua, and Granada. 

Popular things to do in Nicaragua include hiking and sandboarding on volcanoes, admiring the Spanish colonial architecture in the cities, and surfing at the remote beaches.

• Learn permaculture at a Hostel in Omepete Island, Nicarágua while help in the garden 
• Work in the night shift at a Hostel in Nacarágua

8. El Salvador

Also one cheapest countries to visit in Central America, El Salvador are a small place is known for its natural beauty. 

There are lots of beautiful lakes, volcanoes, beaches, and waterfalls to explore, as well as some fascinating Mayan ruins and archeological sites. 

So if you love history and nature, El Salvador is the perfect country to visit. As with most countries in Central and South America, food is cheapest if you stick to the local dishes. 

You can find big plates of local food for 3 USD, whereas a meal of foreign food like pizza or burgers costs closer to 10 USD. But if you travel on a backpacker budget, you can get by in El Salvador on 30 USD per day or travel as Worldpackers volunteer in El salvador.

• Travel in the Costa del Sol, El Salvador while help playing music and make the party happen

9. Guatemala

Guatemala is a geographically diverse and stunning country. Located just below Mexico, it’s very close to the USA so you can find flights there for as cheap as 100 USD.

Guatemala has a thriving Mayan culture. You’ll find lots of traditionally dressed locals living the way their ancestors did. You’ll most likely hear other indigenous languages in addition to Spanish here as well. 

Guatemala has beach towns, highlands and mountains, and tropical rainforests within its borders. 

You can paddleboard on Lake Atitlan , hike volcanoes near Antigua, swim in natural lakes and waterfalls in the rainforest, and explore Mayan Ruins in the north. And you can do it all on a backpacker budget!

You may also be interested:   How to satisfy your wanderlust without spending a fortune

10. Bolivia

As one of the cheapest countries to visit in South America , Bolivia is a favorite among backpackers and budget travelers.

You can travel around Bolivia for 20 USD a day if you eat at local restaurants and stay in hostels. This country is very traditional, so you’ll get to see the real South American way of life.

Highlights in Bolivia include the surreal landscape of Salar De Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, and the blue waters of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable body of water. For a real adventure, venture off the tourist trail and visit remote local villages or hike in the Amazon jungle.

• Live in La paz and help in housekeeping
• Travel around Bolívia and know Copacabana while help and learn permaculture 

11. Colombia

Located in the north of South America, Colombia is an underrated tourist destination. With breathtaking beaches and marine life on the coast, and colorful architecture and historic villages inland, Colombia has something for everyone. 

Popular things to do in Colombia include touring coffee plantations, hiking volcanoes, trekking in the national parks, snorkeling near the northern beaches, and exploring the cities of Medellin and Cartagena.

Hostels in Colombia cost around 10 USD per night, and public bus journeys around the country cost only a few dollars and Worldpackers have many volunteer positions in Colombia.

Keep reading our tips  How to travel on a budget  and  The best ways to save money while traveling

12. Bulgaria

Many people don’t think of Europe as a super cheap place to visit . Scandinavia is extremely expensive, and most of Western Europe is quite pricey as well. But eastern Europe is often just as cheap as Central America or Southeast Asia. 

Bulgaria is actually one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe. It’s not very touristy, so the locals are extremely welcoming. 

In Sofia, the Bulgarian capital city, locals host daily free walking tours for tourists so they can teach you all about their culture and history. 

Hostels in Bulgaria cost around 5-9 USD per night, and you can treat yourself to an amazing meal at a nice restaurant for less than 20 USD. Bulgaria has lots of amazing historical architecture as well as natural beauty, so I think it should be on more people’s European travel bucket list.

For history lovers, Poland is a great place to visit. Full of museums and historical sights, you most likely won’t have to pay more than 5 or 10 USD to enter some of the country’s most popular attractions. 

Poland is also home to lots of colorful, photogenic architecture, which you can obviously admire and photograph for free. 

Big plates of hearty local food usually cost less than 10 USD, and hostels generally cost around 8-10 USD. Poland has all the delicious food and amazing sights of western European countries but without the high prices and the swarms of tourists.

14. Romania

And finally, another cheapest country to visit in Europe is Romania. Not to use a cliche, but Romania is truly a hidden gem of Europe. 

It is a beautiful country with so many cool things to see, but it has very few tourists and it is extremely cheap. A highlight of the country is the Transylvania region , which is home to numerous impressive castles and lots of quaint, charming, colorful villages. 

You can also visit Romania to explore the wilderness, including the majestic Carpathian Mountains and the beaches bordering the Black Sea. 

Traveling on a budget through Romania means you’ll probably spend only 30-40 USD per day, so it’s one of the cheapest foreign countries to visit in Europe. 

You can to visit all these cheapest countries listed here as a  Worldpackers volunteer and make your trip cheaper. 

Worldpackers is a global community of conscientious travelers and welcoming hosts who, since 2014, have fostered thousands of connections and unique experiences in pursuit of developing and transforming the world into a more socially and environmentally sustainable place. On our search pages, you can choose from many volunteer positions around all the world.

Keep reading about  budget travel tips  with Worldpackers:

• 16 awesome places worldwide to get free accommodation in exchange for work
• How easy traveling on a budget with Worldpackers actually is
• The lazy-traveler's guide to budget travel tips

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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Write here your questions and greetings to the author

Aloyse Christian

Dec 27, 2022

seems so interesting, looking forward to Cambodia 🇰🇭, Philippines 🇵🇭, Bolivia 🇧🇴 and Poland 🇵🇱

Mar 27, 2023

May 01, 2023

There are many tourist attractions in the Philippines that offers free entrance, public beaches, park, hiking spots, and many more. The Philippines deserve to be listed here. For now, I don't know an establishment or organization that offers and connects volunteers offering opportunities to work in exchange for accommodation and other benefits. Thank you.

Philippines Travel Guide https://www.philippinestravelguides.com/

hey good one

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11 Dream International Vacations That Are Surprisingly Affordable

From Portugal to Panama, here’s where you can get the most bang for your buck.

As the world becomes more connected by air travel, international vacations are increasingly affordable — but you have to know where to look and when to book. Typically, if you're hoping to save money, you should plan your trip around a destination's off-season. As a bonus, you're bound to have a better travel experience when you don't have to jostle your way through crowds to get to the top attractions.

Whether you're dreaming of a vacation as far from the U.S. as Australia or as close as Toronto, the actual cost could surprise you (in a good way). Using data from the booking platform Kayak , we've compiled a list of 11 international destinations where your dollar will go the furthest, plus when to book for the cheapest airfare and accommodation.

Toronto, Canada

Just north of the U.S. border is a growing city bursting with culture, a diverse culinary scene, and activities catering to a range of age groups and interests. Often mistaken for the Canadian capital, Toronto is sometimes known as "Hollywood North" for its wealth of celebrity residents. Foodies will want to make stops in Little Italy, one of several Chinatowns, and Little Portugal for a gastronomic jaunt around the world. Tourists may also be inclined to catch a hockey game, sample craft beer, and take a trip to the famous CN Tower to get unmatched views of the city.

Kayak data indicates that Toronto's low season runs from October to March, with the exception of December because of holiday travel. The cheapest flights can be found for about $180 from New York's JFK Airport in October. A direct flight from JFK to Toronto takes less than two hours.

Hotels downtown seem to be cheapest in January and February, when you can expect to pay as little as $33 per night for three-star accommodation. They're most expensive in September, going for an average of $371 per night.

Grand Est, France

The area formerly known as Alsace (now officially part of the larger Grand Est region) is beloved by French travelers. It doesn't attract nearly as many visitors as Paris or the Cote d'Azur, so you'll get a quieter experience. Kaysersberg, once featured on the TV program Le Village Préféré des Français as the French's favorite village, exemplifies many of the characteristics that have endeared Alsace to locals. It's got architecture that dates back to the 13th century, world-renowned wine cellars, and hearty Alsatian cuisine.

Fly to Strasbourg, the capital of Grand Est, in February or March for the best price. From New York City, round-trip flights can be found for less than $700, and you can stay in a three-star hotel for as low as $89 per night in the off-season. Kayak says the cheapest months for accommodation in Grand Est are August (an anomaly) and October.

Armenia attracts tourists with its rich arts scene, upscale shopping, and history museums packed with treasures. Though the capital, Yerevan, is a popular destination, no trip to this Asian country is complete without stepping into the gorgeous and rugged countryside. Head out to Khor Virap, a monastery first established during the 600s, for mountainside views and ancient architecture about 45 minutes away from Yerevan. It's worth the additional hour it takes to drive out to Garni Gorge, topped by a Roman temple, along the way.

Winter is Armenia's low season. The cheapest month to fly from NYC to Yerevan is November ($838 for a round trip, on average), though flights from January through March aren't much more expensive. Three-star hotels average $90 per night in January, the cheapest month for accommodation.

Brisbane, Australia

The capital of Queensland on Australia's east coast is arguably the country's design capital. Drop by the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (colloquially called QAGOMA , one entity) or the Institute of Modern Art ( IMA ) to get a sense of Asian-Pacific art. Go shopping in the Fortitude Valley district, where you'll be able to pick up pieces from local and international designers. And, of course, because it's Australia, it's easy to get in touch with the local wildlife. Visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary , just about 20 minutes from the city, to hang out with more than 100 critters (not just koalas, either).

In general, Australia doesn't exactly fit the bill of "budget travel" for Americans, considering the absolute cheapest round-trip flight from NYC to Brisbane on Kayak costs almost $1,000. However, relative to other Australian destinations, this waterfront city is one of the more affordable entry points. The cheapest month to book a flight to Brisbane is September, the first month of spring in the Southern Hemisphere. Three-star hotel stays average in the $150 range from April through July, then spike in August.

Madeira, Portugal

It's been 600 years since the Portuguese colonized Madeira, and the archipelago continues to astound visitors with its natural beauty. Trek along miles of rugged coast to see the Atlantic at its most paradisiacal. The capital of Funchal is home to a number of hotels offering glamour, glitz, and stiff cocktails. Speaking of drinks — be sure to check out the famous fortified wine named after the island where it was made.

Typically, a round-trip flight from NYC to Funchal will set you back anywhere from $650 to $1,100, with the lowest prices offered November and January to May. Hotel prices fluctuate on a similar schedule and range from about $150 to $330 per night for a three-star property.

If you're looking for a cheaper Mediterranean vacation , hop to the sea's southern side and try out Tunisia. The country has history (with a Roman colosseum — the Amphitheatre of El Jem — some say is even better than Rome's), miles of beautiful, sandy beaches, and bazaars with carpets, ceramics, and metalwork.

Kayak data indicates that the cheapest time to fly from NYC to Tunis , Tunisia's capital, is November (about $560), then September to October and January to May ($608 to $768). Prices for a night in a three-star Tunis hotel range from around $100 to $200, with the cheapest months on Kayak being September and December through March.

Etyek, Hungary

Budapest gets the majority of Hungary's visitors, but if you want to delve deeper into the country's culture, drive 18 miles west of the capital to Etyek, often called the "vineyards of Budapest." This area has been producing grapes since the 18th century and has been likened to Champagne for its excellence of crisp wines like chardonnay and sauvignon blanc. The town is also a pilgrimage for film buffs, with huge movies like "Blade Runner 2049" and "The Martian" having been shot there.

Etyek is about a 30-minute drive from Budapest. September through November and January through April are the cheapest times to fly to the Hungarian capital from NYC, according to Kayak data . Outside of the busy summer season, round-trip flights can be found for $524 to $620.

While September is a cheap time to fly to Hungary, it happens to be the most expensive month for accommodation. Book your trip in January, February, or March to snag a three-star hotel for $160 a night or less.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

That St. Vincent and the Grenadines were the last of the British colonies in the Caribbean to gain their independence (only in 1979) could be a reason why the islands have lagged behind other big players in drawing tourists. The upside of that, however, is the lack of crowds at beaches and on trails leading through lush rainforest to dormant volcanoes.

Visitors will fly into St. Vincent's Argyle International Airport, open only since 2017, and ferry over to the smaller islands of the Grenadines. The route is run several times a day from Kingstown.

Round-trip flights from NYC can be found for under $600 in March, May, and November. Hotels on St. Vincent remain surprisingly cheap throughout the year, showing the same sporadicity as flight prices. Go in January, May, June, August, or December for average nightly prices under $200 for three-star properties. The cheapest month for accommodation is December, when you can find a good hotel for about $50 a night.

Panama City, Panama

Meander through Panama City's old quarter where Spanish-style houses line cobblestone streets. Eat your way through Panamanian cuisine — yuca, plantains, empanadas, sancocho de gallina (chicken stew), and fish soup are among the most-loved dishes — and then top it all off with a tour of the city's thriving cocktail scene. The rainforest is easily accessible from Panama City if you're eager to swap the urban jungle for real jungle scenery.

Even though Panama is located in the Northern Hemisphere, its seasons — of which there are only two — are opposite of the U.S.'s. "Winter" (aka the wet season) lasts from around May to December and "summer" (the dry season) lasts from December to May. It's cheaper to go during the wet season, when the climate is least comfortable.

Prices for a round-trip flight from NYC to Panama City's Tocumen International Airport range from $339 to $659, with the cheapest times being April to June and September to October. The most expensive flights are in December. You can often stay in a three-star property for under $130 per night if you go between June and September.

Nicholas Schmidt/Travel + Leisure

Guatemala is consistently ranked a Travel + Leisure reader favorite for its combination of natural beauty and historic wonders. Visitors can wander through ancient Mayan ruins, hike the mountains and jungles, or explore the historic streets of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Antigua. Guatemala also boasts a thriving arts scene, perfectly preserved Spanish architecture, and unique cuisine like chuchitos (Guatemala-style tamales).

Book a trip for May or September for the cheapest flights ($269 to $344) on Kayak . Three-star hotels during that time should cost in the $120- to $140-per night range, while stays during August — the cheapest month for accommodation — cost, on average, $108 nightly.

Hanoi, Vietnam

You get a little bit of everything from a trip to Hanoi: vibrant culture, thousand-year-old history, a food scene that spans world-famous street carts to Michelin-starred restaurants, and a touch of jungle evidently seeping from the outskirts into the city. With $1 USD converting to about 25,000 Vietnamese dong, roughly the cost of a delicious banh mi , you should find it easy to stick to your budget and still live indulgently in this bustling capital.

Round-trip flights from NYC to Hanoi cost about $870 at their cheapest, from September through November, which is Vietnam's transitional period from the hot and humid wet season to the dry (and touristy) season. During this time, three-star properties go for about $125 to $150 a night.

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22 Best Budget Places to Travel This Year (2024)

Written by Becca

Updated on April 26th, 2024

What are the cheapest places to travel in the world? Check out these budget-friendly travel ideas for your next domestic or international travel.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Best Budget Places to Travel

• Medellin and Guatape, Colombia: Best for backpacking
• India: Good for everyone!
• Argentina: Search for your Latin soul
• Porto, Portugal: Keep an eye on the sunsets
• Tenerife, Canary Islands: Experience the island life
• Peru: skip Machu Picchu
• Tallinn, Estonia: Enjoy the long summer days
• Guatemala: See Mayan ruins, volcanic eruptions and culture
• Sri Lanka: Get adventurous
• Panama: See beaches, mountains and cities
• Taipei, Taiwan: Eat your way through!
• La Paz, Bolivia: See indigenous Bolivian Culture
• Mexico City, Mexico: Explore tacos, museums and mezcal
• South Africa: Must-see vineyards, safaris and hiking
• Vietnam: Let your budget take you far
• Thailand: Trekking, Markets, Nature and amazing food
• Philippines: Under-the-radar natural and cultural finds
• New York City, USA: Find free things to do
• Nicaragua: Climb volcanoes and visit colonial towns
• Ecuador: Enjoy high-altitude living

Lithuania: Travel the less-visited country!

• Laos: Take an adventure

Travel doesn’t have to be expensive! In my years of taking trips, I’ve felt the most confident (and happiest) when I’m in a destination with a budget-friendly cost of travel.

Some of my favorite places for travel are the cheapest, like Mexico, India, Colombia and Vietnam. I now make it my mission to travel to the affordable places with a bang for my buck.

Here’s muy list of the consistently most affordable places to travel where you can take a trip on the cheap.

Medellin and Guatape, Colombia: Best for backpacking

There are so many things to do in Medellin and its neighboring town Guatape that make them excellent destinations for any time of year.

Medellin is known as having ‘eternal spring,’ meaning it’s slightly cooler in Northern Hemisphere winter time, and a bit warmer in summer.

As for rainfall, it’s slightly “lower” in fall (September - December), but, as it rains mostly every day anyway, every month of the year is a fair time to visit Medellin and the surrounding region.

Despite what you may have heard, Medellin is an awesome place to be as a traveler, from heaps of types of accommodation for every budget, to delicious food options ranging from Colombian to other types of South American for every taste bud.

You can eat great early, late and for inexpensive prices. One of our favorite things to do is to try Colombian coffee at some of our favorite cafes near El Poblado and take the free city walking tour .

As for the rest of the region and to get out of the city, two of our favorite weekend or two-day breaks are Guatape and Santa Fe de Antioquia .

Guatape is easy to get to from Medellin and even if you don’t speak Spanish, people will help you navigate the bus station. And if you’re wondering about safety, head over to our article answering the question, “Is Medellin safe for travel?”

India: Good for everyone!

Yeah… India is really cheap for backpacking and international travel, and the rumors are true.

The cost of accommodation is cheap in India. The cost of food is cheap. The cost of traveling from place to place is cheap.

The only thing you have to watch out for in India is being gawked at as a foreigner or from looking different from the locals (and it’s likely you will), but the food is incredible, the markets are a shopper’s dream and basically everything is incredibly cheap.

On my first day in India, I picked up a pair of backpacker balloon pants for $4, and it felt expensive.

The currency in India is the Indian Rupee, and you can exchange it widely to and from the USD or other major currencies like EUR and GBP.

Bonus: if you’re gluten-free like I am, you’ll find Indian food rather gluten-free-friendly , so put it on the list.

Argentina: Search for your Latin soul

It happens to be an interesting time to visit Argentina , as the currency recently became favorable to holders of the US Dollar. In fact, (as of 2021), very favorable.

Argentina’s peso has fallen very sadly and incredibly against the USD, giving Americans lots of unexpected buying power in this otherwise slightly-pricey country for travelers.

Among some chilled-out things we have done in Argentina are exploring the cafe scene in Buenos Aires and walking for miles soaking in lots of the free sights of the downtown areas and cool neighborhoods.

If you venture westward toward Cordoba and the Sierra region, you’ll find that Cordoba, Argentina’s “second city,” has some unique things to do that travelers often overlook, and you can rent a car to road trip to small towns with scenic views.

Porto, Portugal: Keep an eye on the sunsets

We found Porto to be an absolutely wonderful place to be in summer, with late sunsets, great weather (most of the time) and friendly locals.

In summer, it’s a great time to picnic in Porto and watch the sunset near Gaia, or walk for hours seeing the different neighborhoods and beautiful tiled buildings.

For us, the highlights of Porto were all the places to see architecture, the trendy cafes, the views from Dom Luís I Bridge and the hilly streets of Ribeira.

Oh, and don’t forget the national artistic treasures all over the São Bento Train Station. This is a great sight to see, and it’s free.

We loved Porto and wished we had more time during summer to explore the nature not too far away. We continued on to the capital city of Lisbon , just a train ride away (book in advance for sure!).

Tenerife, Canary Islands: Experience the island life

In going back to Spain , we had no idea what to expect from Tenerife, a volcanic island famed for Carnival and the highest point in all of Spain, El Teide .

Summer is a great time to go, as rainfall is typically lowest during summer months, and this will be a pretty great time to travel there and enjoy the nature!

To get there, we had a layover and quick stop in Madrid that got our rusty Spanish back for the next few days we’d have in the Canary Islands.

In Tenerife, we spent some time in the absolutely lovely and relaxing town of La Orotava , working our legs on the hilly streets.

Tenerife has its own culture that’s similar yet different to that of mainland Spain. There are interesting outside influences (like an accent influenced by Cubans) and local cuisine as well.

For a coliving experience, if you’re traveling while working remotely or looking to stay in a house among some experienced travelers with a professional mindset, check out Nine Coliving , which was by far the best thing that happened to us in Tenerife!

With more time, you can island hop to Gran Canaria , which is worth a visit to see some awesome sand dunes in the south and the spectacular views along the roads in the southwest.

While we didn’t feel the Canary Islands were as budget-friendly as we had hoped, when it came to renting a car, but it was not terrible, either.

If you really want to keep your budget down, you can travel the entire island of Tenerife or Gran Canaria by public bus. Just keep in mind that you won’t be able to access every village or off-the-beaten-path beach inlet with the Canarian mass transit system.

Peru: skip Machu Picchu

Peru is an affordable destination for travel if you skip the hyped super-touristy path that has now become a mainstay in ‘wonders of the world’ and bucket lists.

Peru is much more than Machu Picchu, which has come to be such a bucket-list item that you’ll find long lines, strict rules and crowds.

The cost of heading up to Machu Picchu for a few days will also set you back a few hundreds of dollars (even thousands, depending on which level of excursions you buy) as everything is priced for tourists, and even the train has a different prices for foreign nationals than for domestic travelers.

So, what to do in Peru, and why should you go there? Peru is massive, and for that reason, it can’t possibly be all touristy.

Get out to places like Arequipa, Iquitos, Mancora, Huaraz and Puno, if you want to skip Cusco, with its higher prices geared toward foreign tourists.

In Lima alone you can see authentic Peruvian-Chinese culture , a city park with rainbow fountains and heaps of other things to do in Lima on a modest budget like trying ceviche, ice cream made from local fruits and beer bars in Miraflores.

In Lima, we walked for miles, taking photos and eating street food, getting to know the city by foot. Do as the locals do: shop in the big markets, rent a bicycle and see some nice neighborhoods, sip a coffee at a cafe and people-watch in Barranco.

Then, take buses to the out-of-town destinations like Ica to go sandsurfing in Huacachina or Arequipa, one of my more favorite places, where Colca Canyon is another weekend trip away for hiking.

Tallinn, Estonia: Enjoy the long summer days

All of Tallinn, Estonia , was like a big surprise for us. In fact, we wish we could have stayed a whole lot longer in Estonia.

The charming city of Tallinn seems best to enjoy during summer, when the sun sets as late as 10:45 pm! (And you better have blackout curtains, because it rises at 4:00 am in July! Bring a sleep mask for sure).

Around the summer solstice, Estonians (and other cultures in the region, from Finland to Latvia) celebrate the Midsummer Festival, which means people take off from work, go to spend some time in the countryside and party all night (which is very short, because of how little darkness there is).

In Tallinn, walking around the compact Old Town is a great way to see architecture, history and lots of food, pubs and cafes. We stayed at one of the best hostels in Tallinn and found the city’s best cafes for digital nomads .

What we also liked about the Baltic region, especially in summer, is that it was easy (and picturesque!) to get from Estonia to Latvia .

With the stops along the way, we saw all the greens and other colors of Estonia (and the north of Latvia) that we had yet to see because we hadn’t left the Tallinn metro area.

Tallinn, Estonia, is a destination that will set you back in your budget more steeply than the Latvian capital of Riga or the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, but believe me, the prices in Tallinn are a far cry from Western European destinations like France, Switzerland and England.

Guatemala: See Mayan ruins, volcanic eruptions and culture

I went to Guatemala specifically because I wanted to travel somewhere very cheap. I also lucked out because I chose Guatemala and it’s a fantastic budget destination.

Guatemala is one of the cheapest places to travel to in Latin America. If you’re deciding between a destination like Costa Rica and Guatemala, and you have a budget to stick to, you can go to Guatemala and spend half of what you would in Costa Rica.

Guatemala is a special place because the cheap-to-thrilling ratio is certainly at one end of the spectrum, meaning you can spend very little money and have an AMAZING time.

In Guatemala, I have stayed in super cheap hostels at Lake Atitlan and splurged for great value local coffees at Antigua’s cafes .

You can do a lot for free in Guatemala, too. There are markets abound, and volcanic eruptions you can watch as you walk down the street in Antigua .

It’s worth putting together some money to go on a day trip from Antigua to places like Volcan Pacaya, Chichicastenango, Acatenango or Guatemala City.

Planning to work remotely? Coworking spaces like Impact Hub Antigua cost only $6.50 per day for the use of a hot desk with unlimited coffee and tea.

A travel budget of $35 USD per day would get you a pretty fun time in Guatemala for your next adventurous international trip on the cheap.

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Sri Lanka: Get adventurous

All of Sri Lanka is affordable as a destination and all of Sri Lanka is good for all-year travel.

We went in the middle of July, expecting rain showers or monsoons, but we got lucky, and you can, too! We counted rain on two occasions in total, and it goes to show that ‘general climate reports’ may not accurately picture your 12-day holiday. We were mostly greeted with lush and green nature !

There are a few things to know about Sri Lanka , so it pays to see if this is a good place for you and your travel style.

Sri Lanka is an island near India and it’s a fascinating country where the people are peaceful and kind.

It has lots of tropical sub-climates, so it’s hot all year round on the coasts, and pretty moderate, to even chilly, in the center where the altitudes get higher.

Because of Sri Lanka’s location, it has two rainy seasons: at one point in the year, the East has rain, and at another point, the West does.

Again, summer was a fine time to go to Sri Lanka (and winter is as well). During July, we experienced rain no more than twice, which was a miracle, and could happen randomly whenever.

We were amazed at how budget-friendly Sri Lanka is, from guesthouses to meals in restaurants to admission fees at cultural sights like temples and Buddhas. We did awesome things that taught us all about the country.

We loved our visit to the Mackwoods Tea Plantation , which in summer, had a rather temperate climate (I needed a sweater as the sun got lower).

We also spent a half day in Galle Fort , which has a fascinating mix of cultures, from colonial influences to several religious groups all calling this place home.

Walking around Galle Fort was completely free, as was walking along the fortress wall, seeing the famous lighthouse and exploring the historic quarter.

Your budget will take you farther than you ever imaged in Sri Lanka, so with your leftover money, be sure to tip generously, only haggle if you feel you are being seriously ripped off and let shop owners keep the change. It means a lot to them.

Planning to pull the trigger and take that trip soon? Don’t miss our checklist for international travel prep and favorite apps for travelers .

Panama: See beaches, mountains and cities

Panama is the gateway of North America to South America, and it’s a fascinating narrow country to spend some time in.

In case you hadn’t heard, traveling in Panama is pretty cheap, and it feels that way especially if you’re coming from Costa Rica, like I was.

Panama is a mix of urban (Panama City and the Panama Canal) and rural (Boquete, Volcan Baru) and beachy (Bocas del Toro).

In recent years, places like Bocas del Toro have become incredibly popular with backpackers looking to travel on the cheap, and the standard of accommodations and eating has taken to a touristic level, meaning prices going up.

However, bargains and deals are still around in Panama, because the country is BIG, despite how it looks on a map, and there are lots of things to see if you travel by land from Costa Rica onward to Panama City (it’s around ten hours).

I certainly ate cheaply in Panama as a backpacker, and I stayed in hostels (my favorite was Mamallena in Boquete, as I detail in our guide to booking accommodations ), always dorm rooms, and always with friends.

In fact, I met friends on my Panama backpacking trip with whom I’m still close in touch with, to this day!

Back to the budget, though, you can surely eat for $2-3 in Panama, travel for a few dollars more, and stay in a hostel for $10 or less, per night.

This is a rather straightforward destination to visit if you’re looking for one of the cheapest places to travel in North America.

Taipei, Taiwan: Eat your way through!

Taipei is one of our favorite new destinations, and although summer is high (and hot and humid) season, what’s interesting is that Taipei gets rain all year round.

It can rain any day and sometimes unexpectedly, throughout the year, so considering summertime is a fine thing to do.

In the rest of Taiwan , you can find different climates as altitudes change, and what many tourists fail to do is to go hiking in the center of the country.

This region is tons less touristed , and you could find yourself alone with nature.

As for Taipei, there’s so much culture to see, and we liked learning more about a history we had never been exposed to.

For when you need a break from sun and humidity, there are lots of large shopping malls with huge food courts that have an array of Asian foods from all over the region.

You can have Taiwanese cuisine, Mongolian BBQ, Japanese sushi and Korean kimbap, all in the same spot. It’s impossible to choose!

In Taipei, there are lots and lots of things you can do for free .

We went to night markets (free entrance), famous memorials and their plazas like Chiang-Kai Shek Memorial and even the changing of the guard ceremony that happens daily and the many hikes that exist within the city (all free).

To cool off, try Taipei’s best cafes with WiFi.

It’s easy to spend a lot of time in Taipei and never spend too much money.

Take mass transit like the beautiful and immaculately clean Taipei metro, stay in a local hostel or guesthouse to support local businesses, and shop at local markets, where you’ll find beautiful produce like fruits, veggies and local treats.

La Paz, Bolivia: See indigenous Bolivian Culture

Bolivia is one of my favorite countries because it represents Old World South America.

It is one of the South American countries with the highest percentage of indigenous people, and it makes it a rich cultural experience to visit.

In La Paz, take the city free walking tour and learn about the city prison (I won’t spoil the details), the witches market and why Bolivian women wear Italian bowl hats.

Don’t forget to try the local treats and stay in any of the awesome hostels that provide nightlife for backpackers in La Paz, like Wild Rover or Loki.

In Sucre, see the White City, all for not too much money at all! A dorm bed in Bolivian hostels will be between $7 and $12 USD, and all have great security. Sucre has a laid-back atmosphere and lots of local life. It’s high up, altitude-wise, so make sure to take it easy.

In the middle of your trip, savor the experience of the once-in-a-lifetime trip to the high-altitude Uyuni salt flats. Any tour operator will take you to the highlights on a sunset one-day trip or a three-day trip, during which you’ll stay in a salt hotel (bundle up!).

In Potosi, a mining town, see local markets, local Bolivian street life and a history of silver mining.

Best of all, it’s pretty safe to take night buses in Bolivia, which helps with saving money and traveling sustainably , at the same time!

You can even try to haggle for a two-person deal if you are traveling as a couple .

Bolivia is one of the best value destinations in South America, and because of its landlocked location and the fact that its tourism infrastructure is newer than, say, that of Peru, every visitor is in for a real treat.

Mexico City, Mexico: Explore tacos, museums and mezcal

We couldn’t find anything that we did not love about Mexico City, and for anyone who lives in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s never too long of a flight.

Also, without giving the secret away too much, Mexico City is not expensive to visit (neither is our honorable mention of Merida, Mexico ).

With heaps of things to do Mexico City for every type of traveler, Mexico City is an incredible place to try lots of new foods with a food tour , see the local markets, try a margarita (or three) at a variety of bars (some on rooftops) and cool off with a cold brew at any of the popular specialty cafes .

Travelers like Mexico City for its value. You can Airbnb within your budget, and you can try new hostels like Selina Mexico City , which also has a coworking space and bar.

If we could move to Mexico City, we would. In fact, I’m not sure why we don’t live there. I can’t get enough of the food, the people, the scenery and the culture, and with a trip on the Mexico City costing only USD 0.25, it was hard to leave.

Regarding safety, check out “Is Mexico City Safe?” , our guide to scams, safety and health concerns in CDMX.

South Africa: Must-see vineyards, safaris and hiking

One thing I have tried to research really intently is where in Africa to travel for cheap. It’s harder than it sounds.

In speaking with a really experienced traveler like my friend Daniel Herszberg , what I’ve learned is that a lot of Africa might be cheap for locals, but plain and simple: as a traveler, you’re in for a pretty penny.

I did not find this to be the case in South Africa, however.

For many reasons, South Africa is not like the rest of Africa. Its major cities have infinitely more Western influence, and South Africa’s European-descent population is about 9%, which is by far higher than other African nations.

This aside, South Africa has had a funny thing happen to it in recent years since about 2015. The currency took a big slide downward in value, and I talk about how this benefits the foreign traveler in my money tips for international travel .

What’s going on here is that the South African Rand (the national currency) devalued three to four times its former value pre-2015. This means thing started costing you, the visitor, only 25% of their previous prices.

So, for cheapest places in the world to travel, South Africa came out as an incredible destination of value. A $100 dinner cost $25, and that’s including steak and wine. A cocktail came out to $3 at a nice bar.

I could’ve done without these luxuries, and could’ve kept my budget even lower, to travel super cheaply in South Africa (but instead, I lived like a king).

My best recommendation for “know before you go” tips for South Africa is to check the exchange rate several months before you plan to travel, to determine what things like travel within the country and accommodation will cost.

I think food was my cheapest expense (it was continually unbelievable) in South Africa, because of that ZAR to USD conversion. These are the types of tricks that will keep you winning if you plan to travel the world cheaply and tick off all those super cheap places to travel (safely).

Vietnam: Let your budget take you far

Vietnam is incredibly affordable, even as prices might rise in summer (high season). Okay, Vietnam is actually one of the cheapest places I’ve ever been (I haven’t been to Pakistan, which many people say is the cheapest country in the world.)

During the summer, heaps of visitors from all over the world come to Vietnam, whether Europeans on summer holidays, Australians on their winter breaks, or Americans coming out for a big month-long Southeast Asia bender.

If you can book your Vietnam trip in advance, you’ll probably do fine, as most major Vietnamese holidays fall in January-February, when prices go up and have surcharges due to the new year festivals.

Vietnam is where your Dollar (or Euro) will for sure go further, from eating out to accommodation at great value. For example, it’s hard to get bored in the capital city of Hanoi, with all these things to do . Hanoi is a special place for us and we loved talking pictures to capture everything Hanoi has to offer.

You can drink Vietnamese coffee every day at [awesome cafes], take a trip to Ninh Binh or Sapa for the northern cultures, and see an impressive amount of the country without breaking the bank.

While summer is known as being wetter, with rainfall on average surpassing that of summer months in Vietnam, this is when places like the Sapa rice terraces will be vividly green, making for an incredible sight to see.

In winter, the same region of rolling hills is dry and brown because of lack of rainfall. Summer brings back the brilliance and the fresh crops.

Our secret: eat whatever’s on the street in cities in Vietnam. You can usually have a meal for 2 USD.

Thailand: Trekking, Markets, Nature and amazing food

I’m sure you’ve heard of Thailand, and I’m sure you have heard that Thailand is cheap.

How do I put this simply…. yes, Thailand is cheap (but Vietnam and Laos are cheaper - ha!).

But really, Thailand is an affordable place to travel on a budget. If you stick to Bangkok alone and you take guided tours or excursions, you will probably spend more than you thought you would.

However (!), if you head up north to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, and you go to smaller towns with equally-beautiful things to do like hikes and minority cultures and eco-tourism, you’ll be very satisfied with a small budget in Thailand for travel.

Having been to Thailand three times, I’ve stayed in cheap hotels, cheap hostels and also really expensive hotels (on my friend’s frequent flyer miles points).

There are many ways to ‘do’ Thailand, and there is something for everyone.

If you’re on an extreme travel budget, you can make Thailand work, and have an amazing time. Things also change very fast in Thailand due to the fact that it is one of the most popular travel destinations on the planet .

In January 2012, I stayed in Julie’s Guesthouse in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for $2.50 USD per night. It’s true. And I was a broke backpacker looking for a good deal.

Places like Chiang Mai have since skyrocketed in popularity, bringing the type of luxe travel to become quite mainstream there, but you can still find good deals, bargain for prices and stick to a low trip budget.

If your budget is on the extreme low end and you’re seeking the cheapest things to do, I recommend going to smaller locales in the center and northeast of the country, where tourism is newer.

I’d recommend avoiding the south of Thailand and the islands, where you’ll have to dish out for ferries, and where tourism has been strong for 30+ years, making competition rather tough.

Philippines: Under-the-radar natural and cultural finds

I bet you don’t know many people who’ve been to the Philippines and haven’t been to Puerta Princesa or Boracay. I personally have not been to either.

I’ve had two low-budget trips to the Philippines, traveling in the Manila metro region and in Cebu and Bohol.

What I am positive of is that the Philippines is one of the cheapest places to travel to in Asia. I really mean that. It is up there with Vietnam.

For a small fee, you can stay in a hotel or hostel, and for only several dollars you can take a taxi to a beautiful beach.

The street food will cost you less than what you could imagine, and bargaining is fair game. While awesome natural landmarks like the Chocolate Hills (Bohol) may have an entrance fee, it won’t be hefty.

A small budget will take you a serious long way in the Philippines, where there are more than 7,000 islands (you probably can’t see them all, nor would you need or want to) and a heap of things to keep you occupied on a trip of a month or more.

New York City, USA: Find free things to do

Now, we know what you’re thinking: isn’t NYC one of the most expensive places to travel ? The short answer is yes, but the long answer is no.

Let me explain.

If you know what to do in NYC, you can have a fantastic time on a low budget. NYC can be a value destination if you know how to stretch a budget thinner and do all the free amazing things in NYC during your trip.

First, I’d really recommend finding a friend, family member or friend’s family member to stay with. Accommodation in NYC is one of the things that will cost the most, but if you can pin that down as a freebie, the rest will work itself out. See here.

If you’re okay with skipping the “must-see” tourist attractions that every book says you have to do, such as the viewing platform at the Empire State Building , the Top of the Rock, the MoMA and any type of entertainment (save it for another time), you can have a budget in NYC of around $50 USD per day (if you travel with a buddy) or if you stay in hostel dorms .

If you’re a traveling digital nomad , check out our favorite laptop-friendly NYC cafes where you can spend time in cafes with WiFi and sometimes even a backyard or two.

If you’re a coffee fanatic, we’ve already listed our favorite cafes in Brooklyn , which make for a great way to venture into different areas, for coffee. Lastly, bookmark our guide to safety and avoiding crime in NYC , which will be very helpful indeed.

A few budget hacks for traveling in NYC on the cheap and not breaking the bank are these following tips:

• Stay in a hostel-hotel like The Local , which books up fast, but plan ahead! They’ve got coworking space, rooftop views, a cool cafe-bar with friendly staff and clean, quiet shared rooms and privates.
• Skip the paid attractions and opt for walking endlessly through NYC’s many neighborhoods like the gorgeous and walkable Brooklyn Heights and ethnic enclaves. Check out Coney Island, Jackson Heights, Flushing Chinatown and Little Italy of the Bronx (Arthur Avenue) and ‘pass’ on those lists of hot restaurants that ‘every visitor to NYC must visit.’
• Take the subway and buses, always. This is the best way to get around New York, and if you opt for an unlimited weekly subway card, it’ll pay for itself in only a few days.
• If you don’t want to hostel, Airbnb in one of Brooklyn or Queens’ outlying neighborhoods and get a feel what it is like to stay outside Manhattan (the center of it all, of course!). You’ll find the most affordable Airbnb options in Greenpoint, Williamsburg, Bed-Stuy, Ditmas and Forest Hills.

Nicaragua: Climb volcanoes and visit colonial towns

Nicaragua is a place that’s great for travel at any time of year and you can be sure that your budget will take you far.

From eating in markets for prices comparable to $2 for a vegan meal of rice, beans and avocado, to taking 2-day treks for around $70 with all-included guides, transport and camping for a night with Quetzaltrekkers, you can do everything you ever dreamed of in this Central American nation.

For beaches, don’t miss San Juan del Sur, the center of all backpacker life on the coast.

Take chicken buses, the quintessential Central American transport on old yellow school buses that have new lives in countries like Nicaragua, and sit next to locals, plants and sometimes… chickens.

This is the way to get around for around a dollar or less.

Ecuador: Enjoy high-altitude living

Ecuador might be a country you skip over in your mind. Did you know that its name means Equator in Spanish? Now you know why this country was named after its location, with the Equator running right through its middle.

What’s there to do in Ecuador? You can explore Cuenca, a beautiful colonial city, by foot, and see the birthplace of the Panama hat (yep, a bit of a mis-nomer).

For beaches, there’s Montanita, the hippie-dippie backpacker hub of the Pacific coast.

For museums, there’s the culture of Quito, the hilly capital, where you can climb a cathedral and look out at a rolling expanse of scenery before climbing down and exploring colonial architecture in the old quarter.

Lastly, get lost in Parque Nacional Cajas, named for ‘boxes,’ which will remind you of mossy scenes from Scotland.

Ecuador will give you highs and lows, from high-altitude cities where you really have to watch your health and how your body handles altitude high up, to the coast — Guayaquil and the lowlands.

There’s something for everyone, and the prices will not set you back much at all.

If we told you we wished we had more time in Lithuania, would you believe us? We were lucky enough to have a whirlwind tour if Lithuania’s top sights by traveling from Riga, Latvia, to Vilnius, Lithuania with Traveller Tours.

What we liked best was the mythical Trakai castle, the pastel walls of Vilnius’s Old Town, the bizarre Hill of Crosses and beautiful and medieval Kaunas.

Had we had a week to spend, we would’ve loved to see all of Lithuania’s historic and cultural sights, including more about its Jewish history, by renting a car and going around.

Check out how excited we got about Lithuania in our interview on the Voyages of Tim Vetter podcast .

What’s more is that Lithuania is the most affordable of the three Baltic countries — we stayed at a hostel on Airbnb for under $30.

Wondering how we decide where to stay? Check out our comparison of Airbnb vs Hostels vs Hotels .

Laos: Take an adventure

Laos is a diverse and often forgotten-about country bordering Thailand, China, Vietnam and Cambodia. Why go here?

Laos is interesting because it’s landlocked, and so many travelers arrive by land via China, Thailand, or Vietnam. Well, what’s there to do?

The fact that tourism is newer in Laos than it is in Thailand makes Laos a bit less discovered. And being less discovered means that it’s a great place to travel to avoid other tourists !

See Buddhist culture at its finest in Luang Prbang, where you can also explore exquisite waterfalls and nature.

See the stars and give night photography a try at night in places like Vang Vieng, and explore a city through its cafes in Vientiane.

For the adventurous, there’s the Plain of Jars (it’s weird) and Phonsavan with its temple ruins.

If you’re not afraid to get off the beaten path, while not spending a lot of your savings, try some time in Laos and you could be surprised at what this modest country has to offer its visitors.

You can stay in hostels in Laos at prices as low as $4 USD per night for a dorm bed, depending on the city or town.

Can you beat that?

We hope you got tons of ideas from this list about where to travel on a budget and save money on your summer trip this year.

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A month-by-month guide to the cheapest flights to international destinations

Airfare prices change regularly throughout the year, but if you know where to look, it's possible to find a bargain to even the most popular destinations — especially if you're able to be flexible with your travel dates.

TPG reached out to Skyscanner to trawl through their vast amount of airfare data and give you a comprehensive look at the destinations around the world that typically cost less to fly to. Whether you're looking to depart from the United States or from the United Kingdom, plenty of sweet spots can be found.

Below are destinations that are consistently priced low throughout the year and destinations that regularly pop up with cheaper airfares during specific months.

*All pricing taken from economy class, round-trip bookings made on Skyscanner for travel in 2022.

Related: Best credit cards for booking airfare

Which destinations are the cheapest to fly to year-round?

While certain destinations can be cheaper on average throughout the whole year, others fluctuate, and not always in the ways you might think.

For example, if you're based in the U.S. and dream of flying to Europe for your next vacation, the best prices for most European locations were in April, May and June, according to Skyscanner's data on the average cost of a return economy flight. This is true, according to that data, even though this time is normally considered a peak travel time for the region and coincides with the U.K. school holidays.

However, while you may be able to pick up cheaper airfare during this time, prices for hotels and attractions may be higher during these periods.

Meanwhile, the average return flights to London were at their lowest at the beginning of the year, between January and March. Note this can be a notoriously drizzly and cold time to visit the U.K. capital (though, let's face it, England isn't really known for its great weather at the best of times).

The next cheapest period to visit London from the U.S. was perhaps surprisingly between October and December. Again, this is during the colder months, but still great news for those looking for a potential Christmas escape to take advantage of some of the Thanksgiving and fall breaks in the U.S.

For travelers based in the U.K., we found airfares to destinations in Italy to be consistently among the top 10 cheapest throughout the year. Despite its popularity among British travelers, Greece didn't break the top 10 once for the cheapest average airfares.

Related: These are the best times to book airfare

Cheapest places to fly from January through March

Traveling from the us.

January through March saw the lowest average prices of the year for flights departing the U.S. to London and Paris, with the French capital coming in a smidgen cheaper to get to. If you take advantage of the convenient Eurostar links between these two European cities, you could easily hit both of these destinations during this period for less than you'd pay any other time.

Related: The best hotels in London

If you decide to do both, we suggest returning to the U.S. from Paris to avoid the U.K.'s notoriously high fees and taxes on airfares.

Average airfare prices to Puerto Rico from the U.S. were among the cheapest during these months in 2022. January is also an ideal time to visit Puerto Rico, thanks to the dryer winter months with moderate temperatures and far less rainfall than you'll see during other times in the year.

Closer to home, this period is also a great time to visit Mexico , where you can enjoy much dryer and cooler temperatures.

Traveling from the UK

If you don't mind wrapping up to stay warm, you can bag plenty of great deals to Europe departing the U.K., but be warned that some places can be chilly during the winter months.

For example, Eindhoven, the Netherlands, can see temperatures dropping as low as 34 Fahrenheit (1.3 Celsius) in January and only just peaking over 50 Fahrenheit (10 Celsius) in March.

Riga, Latvia, sees even lower temperatures, regularly plummetting to around 24 Fahrenheit (-5 Celsius) between January and February and peaking at around 33 Fahrenheit (1 Celsius) in March.

If you're looking for sun, Palma, Mallorca, is your best bet. The first months of the year generally still see days filled with sunshine. It won't necessarily be hot enough to top up your tan and enjoy a beach break, though — temperatures mainly float around the 61 Fahrenheit (16 Celsius) mark.

Cheapest places to fly from April through June

If you're considering a European vacation , these months pulled up cheaper airfares than any other, according to Skyscanner data, with good average prices for Spain, France, Portugal and the U.K. While each of these locations will begin seeing sunnier weather throughout June, you can still expect blues skies and bouts of sunshine during April too.

It is, however, worth doing some research before you book — U.K. schools break for Easter in the first half of April and again at the beginning of June for the summer half-term break. During these times, you can expect many European locations to be busy with family vacations and often see soaring accommodation prices. If you can, we'd recommend booking outside of these weeks to save on both money and time spent queuing due to increased numbers of other tourists.

Looking for something more far-flung? Tokyo has great average airfare prices during the spring, and if you time it properly, you could also witness Japan's beautiful cherry blossom season, which typically peaks in early April.

This is one of the prime times to visit Italy and take in the sights before its summer hits full throttle in July, bringing with it almost prohibitively high temperatures. Visits between April and June are perfect for soaking up the sun, alfresco dining and diving into this country's rich history.

Sicily, in particular, is excellent at this time of the year. However, note that it might get a little too hot for some as June approaches, especially if this year's wildfires and extreme weather are anything to go by.

If Dubrovnik, Croatia, has been on your list for some time but now feels a little too in vogue and expensive, you could also get good prices on flights to Zadar . This charming seaside city is situated on the Dalmatian Coast and is known for its fantastic restaurant and dining scene, with an array of stunning nearby national parks.

Related: 13 of the most beautiful villages and towns in Sicily

Cheapest places to fly from July through September

For those yearning to visit Canada outside of its harsh winter periods, July through September can be an ideal time to enjoy a summer vacation. Toronto bursts to life during the Toronto Jazz Festival and Toronto Fringe Festival in July — perfect for culture vultures.

You can get good prices on flights to Mexico between July and September. While these months bring slightly cooler and more comfortable temperatures, they also mark Mexico's rainy season, typically from late August to September.

Conversely, if you've always had Peru on your bucket list, this can be a great time to visit.

It's the country's driest season — fantastic conditions if you plan to hike to Machu Picchu. According to Skyscanner's data, you can typically find good prices on flights to Peru during these months. However, note that if you plan to travel to Machu Picchu from Lima, you must either get a connecting flight to Cusco or take a long bus ride.

September can be one of the best periods to visit Ireland during its shoulder season. Along with good deals on airfare, you'll also typically see cheaper accommodation costs and fewer crowds. The weather can also be fairly mild during these months with good dry spells, though it likely won't be shorts and T-shirt weather.

Mid-August through to September also sees much milder weather in Italy and can be a preferable month to visit than July and August, which are the hottest months of the year and the most crowded with tourists.

Elsewhere in Europe, July onward is a great time to take advantage of good weather in France.

According to Skyscanner data, Rodez, France, is one of the cheapest places on average to fly to from the U.K. during these months. It also sees high temperatures and lots of sunshine. The mercury is typically around 77 Fahrenheit (25 Celsius) in July and August before dropping off to a more manageable 69.8 Fahrenheit (21 Celsius) average in September.

Cheapest places to fly from October through December

There are great prices on airfares to Mexico from October through December, and these months are also a particularly intriguing time to visit.

Mexico's Day of the Dead celebrations typically take place Nov. 1-2. The festival is an opportunity to honor deceased family members, and there is a wide array of celebrations throughout Mexico, making this a memorable and enlightening time to visit and learn about Mexican traditions.

If you keep your eyes peeled, it's also possible to get low-priced airfares to Iceland, allowing for a festive visit to Reykavik to take in the snow alongside a healthy jolt of Christmas spirit.

Visit London to see the city decorated for the festivities as it gears up for the holidays and New Year celebrations. Sure, it'll be cold and the weather occasionally unwieldy, but it's a magical time to visit the U.K. capital.

Related: These are the best Christmas markets in Europe

For U.K. travelers looking for an affordable winter getaway, cast your eyes toward Italy, where the weather, though much milder than in the earlier months of the year, is still quite the contrast to the climate at home if you pick the right destination.

For example, Sicily will feel much closer to the U.K. spring weather. Other areas, such as Milan or Venice, won't be quite as warm but still make for great locations for romantic winter getaways on the continent.

Bottom line

While airfare prices fluctuate, they don't always follow the expected patterns you might guess. Based on Skyscanner's data from last year, you might be surprised by how much cheaper certain destinations in some months compared to others — especially airfares to Europe from the United States during summer when one might expect higher costs.

Similarly, from the U.K., Italy is generally fairly cheap to fly to if you look in the right places. By looking further afield to places like Rodez, France, or Zadar in Croatia, you might even visit somewhere that's commonly overlooked by other tourists wishing to visit better-known cities such as Paris or Dubrovnik.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

10 Best Places to Travel on a Budget

The world is full of cheap vacation spots. No matter what continent — and no matter what interests you have — there are countless places you can visit on a budget.

Few destinations are “too expensive” as long as you do some research, get creative, and have some flexibility. You just might not be living large when you visit them.

Fortunately, there are lots of destinations out there that make budget travel easy, fun, and safe.

These destinations offer affordable accommodation, cheap food, and plenty of activities and excursions that can be enjoyed without breaking the bank.

Here’s my list of the best cheap travel destinations so you can get inspired and plan your next affordable adventure!

Table of Contents

1. Thailand

2. central america, 3. cambodia, 4. the balkans, 8. portugal, 10. morocco.

It’s also super affordable.

With a tourist trail going back decades, Thailand is the heart of backpacking in Southeast Asia , and you can get by on between $25-35 USD per day thanks to cheap guesthouses, budget street food (which can be found for as little as $1 USD!), local buses, and the many cheap and free attractions. If you spend all your time on the islands and in expensive accommodation, expect to pay closer to $60 USD per day. However, even at the price, Thailand is still one of the most bargain-friendly destinations in the world and should not be skipped!

• The Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide
• 9 Incredible Things to Do in Thailand
• How Much Does It Costs to Visit Thailand?

Belize , Panama , Costa Rica — these are expensive destinations by regional standards (yet they are still quite affordable). If you visit these central Central American countries, you can get by on $45-60 USD per day as a backpacker or splash out and spend $100-120 a day to live large. Your money goes really far in this part of the world. And with so many countries to choose from, it’s easy to bounce around and see a lot without going broke.

READ MY TRAVEL GUIDES TO THE REGION:

• El Salvador

Cambodia is cheaper than popular Thailand but just as beautiful and filled with some of the nicest people in the world. Plus, it’s home to the incredible Angkor Wat (which, while expensive to visit, is worth the expense!).

• Cambodia Budget Travel Guide
• Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip
• Angkor Wat Travel Guide

You can get by for as little as $45 USD per day — a fraction of what you’d pay in Western Europe. A week’s worth of groceries costs as little as $25 USD while a beer costs around $2-5 USD.

And while the region was once known for being unsafe, things have greatly improved over the past decade. There’s a growing backpacking trail here and tourism is on the rise. It’s Europe least-explored region — but not for long so visit before you crowds arrive and the price skyrocket.

• Bosnia & Herzegovina

But the country becomes even cheaper when you get off the beaten path and the interior . This is where you’ll find the best travel deals and bargains. China still remains one of the best value places in the world and, with it’s massive size (it’s the 3rd largest country by landmass), there is a ton to see and do here!

• 7 Lessons Learned from 3 Months in China
• China Travel Guide: What to See, Do, Costs, & Ways to Save
• What Hitchhiking as a Solo Female in China Taught Me

India is a cheap backpacking destination with a rich cultural history, mouthwatering food, helpful and curious locals, incredible regional diversity, great tea, and a lot to do. It’s a gigantic place best either explored in either one large trip or a few smaller chunks. Either way, don’t miss India.

• 13 Amazing Things to Do in India
• India Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
• Is It Safe for Women to Travel India?

Tucked away in the Caucasus, Georgia has been at a cultural crossroads for centuries yet it’s not nearly as popular as it should be. Tbilisi is a city bursting with activity, while the rest of the country offers intrepid adventures a rugged, off-the-beaten-path feel.

You can get by on next to nothing here too, with budget travelers spending as little as $30 USD per day. Beer is around $3 USD, a week’s worth of groceries costs around $25-30 USD, and most museums and historic sites cost just $2-5 USD.

While it might feel out of the way, Georgia is one of the next big backpacking hubs. I’d go back in a heartbeat!

• The 15 Best Things to See and Do in Georgia
• The Ultimate Georgia Travel Guide
• Finding Love and Home in Tbilisi, Georgia

Portugal has become a lot more popular and crowded in recent years (it has a growing expat and digital nomad scene) and Lisbon has become especially expensive was people move there and drive up prices. It’s a great place after all! However, once you get outside of Lisbon, prices are still relatively cheap compared to the rest of Western Europe — and you’ll see far fewer tourists too. Expect to get by on $50-60 USD per day if you’re a budget backpacker.

While is gorgeous in the summer, if you’re looking for a cheap place to spend the winter in Europe, Portugal is one of your best options.

• Portugal Budget Travel Guide
• That Time I Went to Portugal and fell Madly in Love with It
• Porto Travel Guide

While there are some regions that aren’t that safe to explore, the majority of the country is yours to enjoy. No matter your interests — beaches, partying, food, history, nature — there’s a corner of the country that you can enjoy safely without breaking the bank.

• Mexico: A Love Story
• The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City
• The Ultimate Mexico Budget Travel Guide
• How to Stay Safe in Mexico as a Solo Female Traveler

I fell in love with Morocco when I visited, and not just because it’s super affordable (though that did help!). Budget backpackers can get around on just $30-40 USD per day here, while midrange travelers can have a comfortable trip for around double that. You get a lot of value here. In fact, I love it so much I used to run tours there!

Morocco is a country that mesmerizes. Don’t miss it.

• 11 Reasons Why I Fell in Love with Morocco
• Morocco Budget Travel Guide
• Is Morocco Safe?

I believe most destinations in the world can be explored on a budget without sacrificing too much comfort ( heck, I even traveled Iceland on $50 USD per day ).

If you’re a savvy traveler, you know how to maximize your money no matter where you go in the world. But your mission to travel on a budget gets a lot easier when the places you’re going to are already affordable, allowing you make the most of your budget without missing out!  

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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40 of the Cheapest Places to Travel in the World

Don't put your passport in storage just yet...

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That's right, these destinations are for belt-tightening travelers. Some are cheaper because they haven't been discovered by tourists yet, some serve up off-season deals you won't want to miss, and plenty are places where you'll find not only inexpensive activities, but hotels and meals the whole fam will love. So whether the kids are clambering for Colorado, your husband is all about the beach, or all y'all are set on the South, we've got some suggestions for places—including, yes, some European getaways and other international locales—where you'll make memories together that'll last a lifetime without breaking the bank.

Columbus, Georgia

Out of everywhere in the South, Columbus, Georgia, might be one of the cheapest cities to visit, thanks to it multitude of free and almost -free attractions. The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center has no entry fee, and neither does The Columbus Museum of Art (the second-largest art museum in the state). You can also bike the gorgeous 15-mile-long RiverWalk—rent a bike from Ride On Bikes for just $10 a day.

For more information, visit visitcolumbusga.com .

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Well-known to budget travelers for being home to one of the most reasonable city stays in the country, Albuquerque offers great deals on hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Strolling around Old Town, the city's historic heart, is free, but if you want to visit the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in October, tickets for a half-day's worth of fun are only $15.

For more information, visit visitalbuquerque.com .

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Sometimes major cities offer surprisingly good deals on everything needed for a great getaway, as is the case with Philadelphia. The City of Brotherly Love's efficient public transport gives plenty of bang for its buck, attractions like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are free, and Philly's most iconic food—the cheesesteak—is usually only around $10. Keep in mind, if you head into the city in the blustery winter months, you'll find hotels dropping their prices.

For more information, visit discoverphl.com .

Daytona Beach, Florida

There are a lot of places in Florida that are expensive to visit (Sanibel Island, we're looking at you), but Daytona Beach isn't one of them—especially if you visit in the off-season. Don't mind some sticky, hot weather? Book a trip in the summer, and enjoy the sun, sand, and surf on the city's 23 miles of free beaches. Or if high temps don't appeal, head to Daytona in May, when events like spring break are over and the weather is juuuuust right.

For more information, visit daytonabeach.com .

Mexico City, Mexico

This year, why not skip Mexico's often over-priced resorts and head to Mexico City? Prices are bargain-basement compared to the U.S., with public transportation costing a few coins, meals as low as $5 (even less if you eat at street vendor carts), and admission to museums only costing a couple of dollars. Head to the Museo Nacional de Arte on Sundays and you'll not only get in for free, you'll probably have a chance to watch the city's famed Aztec dancers.

For more information, visit visitmexico.com .

Burlington, Vermont

Whether you're people watching at pedestrian-only Church Street (Burlington has a famously boho vibe) or exploring the University of Vermont's Fleming Museum of Art, there is much to do in this pretty little city on Lake Champlain for no charge. Fans of frozen treats will want to head to nearby Waterbury, where the Ben & Jerry's factory tour is just $6 for adults.

F or more information, visit helloburlingtonvt.com .

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Want to really save cash during your vacay? Go camping. To be more specific, go camping at the Grand Canyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site where $35 gets an entire carload of people entrance for a week. There are trails all over the national park to hike, but if you feel like taking some time off from physical activity, Grand Canyon Village, on the South Rim, offers a day's worth of free activities like window shopping and visiting art studios.

For more information, visit nps.gov/grca .

Dominican Republic

If you want to head to the Caribbean cheaply, the Dominican Republic is your best bet. While all-inclusive deals including airfare as well as hotel and meals can boast offers as low as $500 for three nights, stay outside of the resort area in Punta Cana for even better prices. Go during the low season, between June and November, and you'll save even more.

For more information, visit godominicanrepublic.com .

Breckenridge, Colorado

Colorado has gotten so popular, you might think it's impossible to plan a reasonably priced trip there, but the historic little mountain town of Breckenridge will prove you wrong. Breck, as it's been dubbed by the locals, serves up winter slopes cheaper than most in Colorado, but in summer the cost of lodging really nose-dives. For warm-weather outdoorsy folk, there are more than 200+ miles of trails to hike.

For more information, visit gobreck.com .

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

We have a theory: The less well-known a destination, the better the value of the vacation there, and that's certainly true of Oklahoma City. Despite a flurry of recently opened and improved places, including the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center, the First Americans Museum, and even streetcar lines, the limelight seldom shines brightly on this rapidly developing capital city. As a result, pretty much everything from hotels to meals to attractions are relatively cheap.

For more information, visit visitokc.com .

Finger Lakes, New York

Vino lovers, instead of taking a pricey trip to California's wine country, spend smart with a jaunt to the Finger Lakes. Every bit as breathtaking, but with hotels and restaurants that are a comparative bargain, the region is known for producing Riesling, which you can sample at wineries like Dr. Konstantin Frank and Ravines Wine Cellars. Of course, there's plenty to do in the Finger Lakes even if you don't like wine, like budget-friendly hiking, canoeing, and kayaking.

For more information, visit visitfingerlakes.com .

Sure, Portugal is pricier than a super cheap getaway to the Southern United States, but compared to the rest of Europe, it's very economical, which is one reason why so many Americans are retiring there. With the dollar about even to the euro, you can expect to pay around $75 for a mid-range hotel and $20 for a three-course meal with drinks. That's quite a bargain for some of the world's best cuisine.

For more information, visit visitportugal.com .

San Antonio, Texas

While San Antonio may not get quite as much of the attention as other Lone Star State cities, it makes an ideal getaway if you're looking to save some moola. Wandering the justifiably famed riverwalk is free, and so is entry to the historic Alamo. Don't miss browsing the many colorful stalls of El Mercado (Market Square), and while you're there, fuel up at Mi Tierra Café.

For more information, visit visitsanantonio.com .

Big Bear Lake, California

There aren't a lot of options for truly cheap escapes from the everyday in The Golden State, but Big Bear Lake—located about two hours from Los Angeles—is the exception to the rule. Go in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) and you'll not only avoid the crowds, you'll find lodging costs have plummeted. For big fun that won't empty your wallet, go hiking on Castle Rock Trail or the Alpine Pedal Path, then rent a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe to get out on the water.

For more information, visit bigbear.com .

Columbus, Ohio

Another boomtown that is only now beginning to garner attention, Columbus's under-the-radar status and location in the traditionally low-priced Midwest has kept accommodations, food, and attractions cheap. Steals and deals can be found at North Market's fabulous food stalls, the Ohio Statehouse (you gotta love free guided tours!), and the Columbus Museum of Art, which features complimentary admission on Sundays.

For more information, visit experiencecolumbus.com .

Baltimore, Maryland

With hotel rates that average at just over $100, Baltimore makes for a refreshingly low-cost stay, especially for one of country's more significant cities. There's loads to keep the whole fam busy there too, like wandering the bustling Inner Harbor (for cheap but delicious seafood, skip these eateries and hit up Sal and Sons in Fells Point). Visit the famed National Aquarium Fridays after 5 p.m. for half-price admission.

For more information, visit baltimore.org .

New Orleans, Louisiana

Do not, we repeat, do not visit NOLA during Mardi Gras, when prices for everything get jacked up. That is, unless you really want to, in which case good day and good luck. During the rest of the year, you can get thrifty by noshing on inexpensive staples like Café du Monde's beignets and enjoying free experiences, such as wandering the French Quarter and Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. And don't forget to ride the ridiculously scenic streetcars for just $1.25.

For more information, visit neworleans.com .

Upper Peninsula, Michigan

Are you a fan of autumn foliage? For a budget-friendly alternative to New England, leaf peep in Michigan's U.P. instead. The trees' fall colors usually hit their height in early October, with hundreds of waterfalls and lighthouses only adding to the region's appeal.

For more information, visit uptravel.com .

Safe, welcoming, and eternally inexpensive, Thailand is home to everything from stunning temples to idyllic beaches, fabulous food, and picturesque markets. If you go on the cheap, you'll pay maybe $30 a day. Care to pamper yourself and stay in more luxurious hotels? The price goes up to all of $50 daily. This Southeast Asia country is a great place to begin if you've recently decided to explore the world (far) outside of your backyard.

For more information, visit tourismthailand.org .

Gulf Shores/Orange Beach, Alabama

Far less expensive than usual beach vacays, Gulf Shores/Orange Beach features lodging that averages just a little more than $90 a day. Save even more by visiting this family-friendly area in the latter half of September and take advantage of the area's lunch and happy hour specials. Or, enjoy the many activities at the roughly 6,000-acre Gulf State Park. Beaches, a nature center, hiking and biking trails, Segway tours, and more are all available at no-to-low costs.

For more information, visit gulfshores.com .

Jill Gleeson is a travel journalist and memoirist based in the Appalachian Mountains of western Pennsylvania who has written for websites and publications including Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Country Living, Washingtonian, Gothamist, Canadian Traveller, and EDGE Media Network. Jill is the travel editor for Enchanted Living. Learn more about her journey at gleesonreboots.com.

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17 Cheap Travel Destinations (Budget Trips and Travel Guide)

Travel doesn’t have to be expensive and there are many cheap places to travel around the world that offer superb value for those who are willing to get just a little adventurous.

You can backpack through many countries, using public transport and staying in budget hotels or dormitories in many cases for less than the cost of staying in your home city.

From exploring Mexican cities and beaches to trekking through the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, here are the most exciting cheap places to travel in the world.

Cheap Places to Travel in North America

Table of Contents

The USA can be a surprisingly cheap destination to travel to, as long as you are visiting the right places. Popular cities such as New York or Los Angeles will set even the most frugal of travelers back a few hundred dollars a day if they actually want to see the sights and enjoy the attractions.

That said, there are a number of other destinations that can be visited as some of the best cheap places to travel in the world. 

You can save money by road tripping, and average daily road trip prices can be as low as 100 USD per day for fuel, food and car rental. Eating at food trucks or fast food outlets will cost between 5 and 10 USD a meal, while many museums offer free entrance on certain days during the week. 

Our Top Recommended USA Tours:

• National Parks of the American West with National Geographic Journeys
• USA Road Trip: Coast to Coast Highlights with G Adventures
• Highlights of the Eastern USA-Northbound with G Adventures
• Discover American Canyonlands with National Geographic Journeys

Mexico can easily be one of the best cheap places to travel in the world because costs can be incredibly low across the country. Of course, if you are planning on having a holiday along the Riviera Maya and booking tours and staying in resorts, it won’t be cheap, but independent travel will be. 

Budget travelers can get away with spending around 30 USD per day in Mexico, including entrance fees to attractions such as Chichen Itza or Teotihuacan , and staying in either dorms or budget hotels.

Food in Mexico is both delicious and cheap, and a plate of Tacos, freshly cooked in front of you, can cost just 2 USD. A deluxe bus ride can cost less than 20 USD for an 8-hour ride while using the local Collectivo minibusses for transport is far less than this.  

Our Top Recommended Mexico Tours:

• Cultural Wonders of Mexico with National Geographic Journeys
• Mexico: Cities, Cuisine & Ruins with G Adventures
• Mayan Discovery with G Adventures
• Yucatan Discovery: Cenotes & Seasides with G Adventures

Cheap Places to Travel in South America

Colombia is one of the best cheap places to travel in the world because costs are low in the South American nation. You can budget for an average of 30-50 USD per day, depending on if you prefer to stay in dorms or have private rooms in hotels.

Food is cheap, and by eating at local restaurants, you can score a good Colombian meal for around 3 USD, but expect to be eating lots of rice and beans. Intercity buses can be as cheap as 10 USD, while public transport in cities is incredibly low.

For a major city, Bogota can be incredibly affordable. Even if you want to get out and tour around the city and surrounding area. 

Our Top Recommended Colombia Tours:

• Columbia Journey with National Geographic Journeys
• Cartagena to Bogota: Colonial Cities & Trekking with G Adventures
• Caribbean Columbia Express with G Adventures
• Wellness Columbia with G Adventures

While the cost of living in Peru is low, it’s the cost of activities and tours that will push prices up for tourists, with a trip to Machu Picchu costing upwards of 600 USD for a multi-day trekking tour.

To really budget, you’ll have to travel independently, or really scrimp for the rest of your trip.

Still, it’s great value in Peru, and without the added expense of a once in a lifetime trek or tour, you can expect to average around 40 USD per day when you are staying in dorms or budget hotels and taking local transport everywhere.

To plan the perfect trip for your budget, have a look at these top things to do in Peru . We’d also highly recommend a trip into the Peruvian Amazon , which is easily accessed on budget airlines from Cusco, in Puerto Maldonado. 

Our Top Recommended Peru Tours:

• Explore Machu Picchu & the Amazon River with National Geographic Journeys
• Trekking the Inca Trail with G Adventures
• Explore Northern Peru & Machu Picchu with National Geographic Journeys
• Explore Northern Peru with National Geographic Journeys

Chile is another South American nation that makes for one of the best cheap places to travel in the world and traveling independently, you can expect to average around 40 USD per day for travel costs.

Chile is a long country, so you can expect to spend lots of time on buses, as traveling independently using local transport is the best way to keep costs down in Chile.

You can indulge in cheap Empanadas, explore the Atacama Desert and go trekking in Patagonia to see the best of the outdoors and to keep costs lower by camping.

Our Top Recommended Chile Tours:

• Torres del Paine-The W Trek with G Adventures
• Discover Patagonia with National Geographic Journeys
• Explore Chile & Argentina with National Geographic Journeys
• Highlights of Chile & Argentina with G Adventures

Cheap Places to Travel in Europe

Spain is one of the cheapest destinations to visit in Western Europe, but you can still expect to pay more here than in countries on the eastern side of the continent.

For budget travel to Spain, you will need to stay in hostels, and you will need to avoid the summer high season when costs in cities such as Madrid and Barcelona can double. 

Use buses or advance tickets on trains to get around, eat from supermarkets or cheap restaurants and taverns, and stay in dorms, and you can expect to spend 50 USD per day.

It is possible to also head to some of the islands, such as Ibiza or Mallorca , on a budget too. 

Our Top Recommended Spain Tours:

• Best of Northern Spain with G Adventures
• Walk the Camino de Santiago with G Adventures
• Discover Moorish Spain with National Geographic Journeys
• Best of Southern Spain with G Adventures

Greece can be one of the cheapest Mediterranean destinations in Europe, but if you want to keep your costs even cheaper, then travel in the shoulder season, after the summer high and before the winter low. The weather will still be great, you’ll just pay less for accommodation and transport.

In Greece, if you are island hopping and using local ferries and public transport to get around, you can expect to budget around 50 USD per day.

You’ll be limited on the number of excursions you can take at this budget though, as most day trips on islands such as Mykonos will cost upwards of 50 USD on their own. That said, you can still go island hopping in Greece on a budget. 

Learn to love gyros and eat in the local tavernas, and Greece can be one of the best cheap places to travel in Europe.

Our Top Recommended Greece Tours:

• Greece: Ancient Ruins & Iconic Islands with National Geographic Journeys
• Best of Greece with G Adventures
• Sailing Greece: Athens to Mykonos with G Adventures
• Sailing Greece: Santorini to Mykonos with G Adventures

Hungary has fast become one of the most popular European destinations, but it’s still incredibly cheap to visit. Budapest is more expensive than other cities, but if you stay outside the city center and eat like a local you can easily get away with enjoying yourself on a budget of 50 USD per day.

This means lots of goulash and paprika but you’ll get by on a much higher standard than other European cities. For 30 USD a day, you can also see much of Hungary, but expect to stay in cheaper hostels and to eat more fast food.

Our Top Recommended Hungary Tours:

• The Best of Eastern Europe with G Adventures
• Budapest to Istanbul with G Adventures
• Explore Central Europe with National Geographic Journeys

Cheap Places to Visit in Africa

Landlocked Rwanda has left its troubles behind and is quickly becoming a popular African tourist destination, and luckily, it’s still a cheap place to visit.

While local costs might be minor, most of your budget will end up going to safaris and hotels, and for this reason, you can expect to need at least 100 USD per day for a trip here. 

While that is more expensive than places in South America or Europe , it is affordable by safari standards and offers a really unique experience. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is a major bucket list attraction and worth the splurge. 

Our Top Recommended Rwanda Tours:

• East Africa Gorilla & Safari Experience with National Geographic Journeys
• Rwanda & Uganda Gorilla Discovery with National Geographic Journeys
• Culture & Wildlife of Uganda and Rwanda with G Adventures

Like Rwanda, the main draw of a trip to Kenya is to go on safari, but outside of this, it’s a wonderfully cheap destination. Food and drink are cheap, but with safaris added into the mix, you’re looking at spending around 100 USD a day. 

This can be brought down by joining fewer safaris, and a frugal traveler could even aim for 50 USD per day. If you’re planning on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro though, you will need to raise your budget even higher. 

Our Top Recommended Kenya Tours:

• Kenya Camping Safari with G Adventures
• Kenya Overland: Rhinos & National Reserves with G Adventures
• Kenya Safari Experience with National Geographic Journeys

Ethiopia remains a cheap destination to travel to and for an African country, it’s one of the cheapest and most exciting places to explore.

Traveling mostly independently, but joining tours and activities that take you out into the deserts or mountains, and you can expect to pay 50 USD per day, but you’ll be getting your money’s worth in comparison to more traditional African safari destinations to the south.

A great way to save on budget is to set off into the Simien Mountains and do some trekking. This will allow you to save some money on accommodation so you can splurge in other parts of the country. 

Our Top Recommended Ethiopia Tour: Discover Ethiopia with G Adventures

Cheap Places to Travel in Asia

Kyrgyzstan is an exceptionally cheap Central Asian country to visit, but how much you pay per day will depend on how many activities you are doing. 

While you can easily visit Bishkek and explore Osh or Issyk Kul Lake on a meager 20 USD a day, staying in guesthouses and eating cheap food. It’s when you start hiring guides or horses for trekking that costs go up.

You can expect to budget more in the region of 50 USD per day over the course of your trip. No matter your budget, be sure to take in a game of Kok Boru and leave some funds to go trekking in the mountains . 

Our Top Recommended Kyrgyzstan Tours:

• Highlights of Kyrgyzstan & Kazakhstan with G Adventures
• The Five Stans of the Silk Road with G Adventures
• Best of Kyrgyzstan & Tajikistan with G Adventures

Sri Lanka is exceptionally cheap to travel too, and it’s one of the few destinations left in the world where you can spend as little as 20 USD per day and still enjoy yourself. 

A higher budget, up to 50 USD per day, and you can join safaris and whale watching trips and stay in boutique hotels by the beach. With the affordability, you can plan the ultimate Sri Lanka itinerary that hits all the highlights for considerably less than a lot of other places. 

Our Top Recommended Tours:

• Sri Lanka: Spice Gardens and Seasides with G Adventures
• Discover Sri Lanka with National Geographic Journeys
• Sri Lanka Land & Sea with G Adventures
• Sri Lanka Encompassed with G Adventures

Like Sri Lanka, India is also an exceptionally cheap destination to travel to. A budget of 20 USD per day will see you enjoying good meals, guesthouses and plenty of sights. Raise this and you can live like an Indian Prince across the subcontinent.

Your dollar can really stretch far in India and with that, you can explore a wide breadth of the country. We recommend sticking to Rajasthan on your first visit, especially if you only have a week or two. 

If you’re lucky enough to have more time, consider some other places such as Varanasi and the sex temples at Khajuraho. If you can get away in March, plan your visit around the annual Holi festival . 

Our Top Recommended India Tours:

• Mysteries of India with National Geographic Journeys
• Essential India with G Adventures
• Discover India with National Geographic Journeys
• North to South India: Colors & Curry with G Adventures

Cheap Places to Travel in South-East Asia

While Bali might be going up and up in price, the country is still very much cheap to travel around, especially if you travel independently. Domestic flights and buses are great value while eating at local restaurants you can enjoy a huge plate of food for just a few dollars.

Factor in a few tours, such as trips to Komodo Island or snorkeling excursions, and you can enjoy yourself on a budget of 30 USD per day. The best part is that you can travel between a multitude of islands on this budget. 

You can explore places like Gili Trawangan, Lombok , Yogyakarta , Bandung , Sumatra and Borobudur . If you have a bit more budget and a flair for exotic places, head up to Raja Ampat , in West Papua. 

Need more inspiration? Check out  11 UNREAL Places to Visit in Indonesia .

Our Top Recommended Indonesia Tours:

• Classic Bali & Lombok with G Adventures
• Best of Java with G Adventures
• Indonesia Encompassed with G Adventures
• Classic Bali with G Adventures

Philippines

The Philippines is equally as cheap, and even with island hopping trips and the cost of domestic flights between cities-it’s a big country! – then you can really enjoy a trip here on a budget of 30 USD a day.

This means staying in guesthouses and eating local food, but when beers only cost 1 USD a bottle, you can never spend too much anyway. There are numerous places to visit in the Philippines that will blow your mind. 

Our personal favorite is Coron and the surrounding islands. 

Our Top Recommended Philippines Tours:

• Northern Philippines Adventure with G Adventures
• Philippines Palawan Adventure with G Adventures
• Northern Philippines & Palawan Adventure with G Adventures

Vietnam has always been one of the cheapest places to travel in South-East Asia, and it very much remains that way.

For a budget of 20-30 USD, depending on the number of tours and activities you want to enjoy, you can travel from north to south and see all the best sights, including the likes of Halong Bay .

There are loads of epic things to do in Vietnam on a budget. 

Our Top Recommended Vietnam Tours:

• Classic Vietnam: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City with G Adventures
• Vietnam Family Adventure with G Adventures
• Vietnam Hike, Bike & Kayak with G Adventures

More on Travel Planning:

• How to Plan A Trip: Step by Step Guide
• How to Save Money for Travel: A Step by Step Plan
• AirBNB Coupon Code: Up to $100 in Free Promos & Discounts
• 34 Amazing South America Adventure Experiences
• 10 Killer Tips on How to Find Cheap Flights
• 11 Easy Tips on How to Find Cheap Accommodation
• 16 Exotic Islands That Are Worth Adding to Your Bucket List
• 25 Epic & Best Places To Visit in Southeast Asia
• 10 Cheapest Places to Travel in Europe
• 9 Romantic Getaways for Couples

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

2 thoughts on “17 Cheap Travel Destinations (Budget Trips and Travel Guide)”

I WOULD NEVER HAVE GUESSED UNITED STATES WOULD BE A CHEAP DESTINATION.

There are plenty of places to visit in the USA on a budget! You just have to stay out of the big cities like New York, Los Angeles, Miami, etc.

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Compare flights from 100s of sites.

Save money on airfare by searching for cheap flight tickets on KAYAK. KAYAK searches for flight deals on hundreds of airline tickets sites to help you find the cheapest flights. Whether you are looking for a last minute flight or a cheap plane ticket for a later date, you can find the best deals faster at KAYAK.

New York Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Newark (ATL - EWR) $39+
• Flight Chicago - New York (ORD - LGA) $39+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Newark (FLL - EWR) $51+
• Flight Atlanta - New York (ATL - LGA) $52+
• Flight Dallas - New York (DFW - LGA) $56+
• Flight Miami - New York (MIA - LGA) $56+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - New York (FLL - LGA) $57+
• Flight Orlando - Newark (MCO - EWR) $64+
• Flight Orlando - New York (MCO - LGA) $66+
• Flight Dallas - Newark (DFW - EWR) $70+
• Flight Chicago - Newark (ORD - EWR) $74+
• Flight Los Angeles - Newark (LAX - EWR) $97+
• Flight Los Angeles - New York (LAX - LGA) $116+
• Flight Chicago - New York (ORD - JFK) $127+
• Flight Denver - New York (DEN - LGA) $137+
• Flight Burbank - Newark (BUR - EWR) $153+
• Flight Miami - New York (MIA - JFK) $167+
• Flight Dallas - New York (DFW - JFK) $199+
• Flight San Francisco - New York (SFO - LGA) $217+
• Flight Seattle - New York (SEA - JFK) $229+
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• Flight Ontario - New York (ONT - JFK) $275+
• Flight Los Angeles - New York (LAX - JFK) $289+

Orlando Flights

• Flight Baltimore - Orlando (BWI - MCO) $35+
• Flight Philadelphia - Orlando (PHL - MCO) $37+
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• Flight Cleveland - Orlando (CLE - MCO) $39+
• Flight Detroit - Orlando (DTW - MCO) $50+
• Flight Houston - Orlando (HOU - MCO) $55+
• Flight Houston - Orlando (IAH - MCO) $55+

London Flights

• Flight New Windsor - London (SWF - STN) $365+
• Flight Boston - London (BOS - LGW) $379+
• Flight New York - London (JFK - LGW) $401+
• Flight New York - London (JFK - LHR) $421+
• Flight Newark - London (EWR - LHR) $421+
• Flight Baltimore - London (BWI - LHR) $427+
• Flight Los Angeles - London (LAX - LHR) $456+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - London (IAD - LGW) $458+
• Flight Boston - London (BOS - LHR) $462+

Fort Lauderdale Flights

• Flight Baltimore - Fort Lauderdale (BWI - FLL) $33+
• Flight Philadelphia - Fort Lauderdale (PHL - FLL) $35+
• Flight Dallas - Fort Lauderdale (DFW - FLL) $36+
• Flight Atlanta - Fort Lauderdale (ATL - FLL) $38+
• Flight Chicago - Fort Lauderdale (ORD - FLL) $39+
• Flight Cleveland - Fort Lauderdale (CLE - FLL) $39+
• Flight Raleigh - Fort Lauderdale (RDU - FLL) $40+

Boston Flights

• Flight Baltimore - Boston (BWI - BOS) $40+
• Flight Houston - Boston (HOU - BOS) $51+
• Flight Newark - Boston (EWR - BOS) $55+
• Flight Philadelphia - Boston (PHL - BOS) $58+
• Flight Miami - Boston (MIA - BOS) $62+
• Flight Atlanta - Boston (ATL - BOS) $63+
• Flight Orlando - Boston (MCO - BOS) $66+

India Flights

• Flight Chicago - Hyderabad (ORD - HYD) $496+
• Flight New York - New Delhi (JFK - DEL) $506+
• Flight New York - Ahmedabad (JFK - AMD) $520+
• Flight New York - Mumbai (JFK - BOM) $527+
• Flight San Francisco - New Delhi (SFO - DEL) $553+
• Flight New York - Kochi (JFK - COK) $588+
• Flight New York - Hyderabad (JFK - HYD) $601+

Japan Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Tokyo (LAX - NRT) $526+
• Flight San Francisco - Tokyo (SFO - NRT) $594+
• Flight Los Angeles - Tokyo (LAX - HND) $739+
• Flight Seattle - Tokyo (SEA - NRT) $750+
• Flight Seattle - Tokyo (SEA - HND) $751+
• Flight Dallas - Tokyo (DFW - NRT) $753+
• Flight San Francisco - Tokyo (SFO - HND) $762+

Phoenix Flights

• Flight Dallas - Phoenix (DFW - PHX) $39+
• Flight Ontario - Phoenix (ONT - PHX) $53+
• Flight Los Angeles - Phoenix (LAX - PHX) $55+
• Flight Denver - Phoenix (DEN - PHX) $58+
• Flight San Diego - Phoenix (SAN - PHX) $64+
• Flight San Francisco - Phoenix (SFO - PHX) $73+
• Flight Seattle - Phoenix (SEA - PHX) $76+

Honolulu Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Honolulu (LAX - HNL) $249+
• Flight San Jose - Honolulu (SJC - HNL) $267+
• Flight San Francisco - Honolulu (SFO - HNL) $277+
• Flight Oakland - Honolulu (OAK - HNL) $282+
• Flight San Diego - Honolulu (SAN - HNL) $302+
• Flight Ontario - Honolulu (ONT - HNL) $308+
• Flight Las Vegas - Honolulu (LAS - HNL) $363+

Los Angeles Flights

• Flight Oakland - Los Angeles (OAK - LAX) $39+
• Flight San Francisco - Los Angeles (SFO - LAX) $54+
• Flight Dallas - Los Angeles (DFW - LAX) $57+
• Flight Houston - Los Angeles (HOU - LAX) $59+
• Flight Houston - Los Angeles (IAH - LAX) $59+
• Flight San Jose - Los Angeles (SJC - LAX) $64+
• Flight Atlanta - Los Angeles (ATL - LAX) $69+
• Flight Newark - Los Angeles (EWR - LAX) $69+
• Flight Minneapolis - Los Angeles (MSP - LAX) $76+

Chicago Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Chicago (ATL - ORD) $38+
• Flight Dallas - Chicago (DFW - ORD) $39+
• Flight Houston - Chicago (HOU - ORD) $45+
• Flight Atlanta - Chicago (ATL - MDW) $47+
• Flight New York - Chicago (LGA - ORD) $50+
• Flight Orlando - Chicago (MCO - ORD) $66+
• Flight Baltimore - Chicago (BWI - ORD) $68+

Denver Flights

• Flight Minneapolis - Denver (MSP - DEN) $38+
• Flight Dallas - Denver (DFW - DEN) $58+
• Flight Chicago - Denver (ORD - DEN) $68+
• Flight Houston - Denver (HOU - DEN) $68+
• Flight Detroit - Denver (DTW - DEN) $78+
• Flight Ontario - Denver (ONT - DEN) $78+
• Flight San Francisco - Denver (SFO - DEN) $78+

Washington, D.C. Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Baltimore (ATL - BWI) $39+
• Flight Orlando - Baltimore (MCO - BWI) $39+
• Flight Boston - Baltimore (BOS - BWI) $40+
• Flight Houston - Baltimore (IAH - BWI) $57+
• Flight Chicago - Baltimore (ORD - BWI) $68+
• Flight Dallas - Baltimore (DFW - BWI) $73+
• Flight Los Angeles - Baltimore (LAX - BWI) $87+
• Flight Boston - Washington, D.C. (BOS - DCA) $123+
• Flight Seattle - Baltimore (SEA - BWI) $124+
• Flight Minneapolis - Washington, D.C. (MSP - DCA) $158+
• Flight Dallas - Washington, D.C. (DFW - DCA) $167+
• Flight Chicago - Washington, D.C. (ORD - DCA) $178+
• Flight Houston - Washington, D.C. (HOU - DCA) $183+
• Flight Los Angeles - Washington, D.C. (LAX - IAD) $187+
• Flight Atlanta - Washington, D.C. (ATL - DCA) $194+
• Flight San Francisco - Baltimore (SFO - BWI) $194+
• Flight Atlanta - Washington, D.C. (ATL - IAD) $199+
• Flight Dallas - Washington, D.C. (DFW - IAD) $213+
• Flight Los Angeles - Washington, D.C. (LAX - DCA) $227+
• Flight San Francisco - Washington, D.C. (SFO - DCA) $230+
• Flight Seattle - Washington, D.C. (SEA - IAD) $251+
• Flight Seattle - Washington, D.C. (SEA - DCA) $251+
• Flight Houston - Washington, D.C. (HOU - IAD) $258+
• Flight San Francisco - Washington, D.C. (SFO - IAD) $285+

Atlanta Flights

• Flight Baltimore - Atlanta (BWI - ATL) $33+
• Flight Orlando - Atlanta (MCO - ATL) $35+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Atlanta (FLL - ATL) $38+
• Flight Miami - Atlanta (MIA - ATL) $38+
• Flight Philadelphia - Atlanta (PHL - ATL) $38+
• Flight Chicago - Atlanta (ORD - ATL) $39+
• Flight Dallas - Atlanta (DFW - ATL) $39+

United States Flights

• Flight Dallas - Las Vegas (DFW - LAS) $38+
• Flight Newark - Miami (EWR - MIA) $39+
• Flight Newark - Fort Lauderdale (EWR - FLL) $50+
• Flight Seattle - Las Vegas (SEA - LAS) $51+
• Flight New York - Miami (LGA - MIA) $55+
• Flight New York - Fort Lauderdale (LGA - FLL) $61+

Hawaii Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Hawaii (LAX - USHI) $212+
• Flight San Francisco - Hawaii (SFO - USHI) $237+
• Flight San Jose - Hawaii (SJC - USHI) $267+
• Flight San Diego - Hawaii (SAN - USHI) $302+
• Flight Ontario - Hawaii (ONT - USHI) $308+
• Flight Seattle - Hawaii (SEA - USHI) $336+
• Flight Las Vegas - Hawaii (LAS - USHI) $363+

Tampa Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Tampa (ATL - TPA) $38+
• Flight Baltimore - Tampa (BWI - TPA) $45+
• Flight Atlantic City - Tampa (ACY - TPA) $48+
• Flight Dallas - Tampa (DFW - TPA) $53+
• Flight Chicago - Tampa (ORD - TPA) $56+
• Flight Cincinnati - Tampa (CVG - TPA) $58+
• Flight Detroit - Tampa (DTW - TPA) $62+

Houston Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Houston (ATL - IAH) $39+
• Flight Philadelphia - Houston (PHL - IAH) $45+
• Flight Orlando - Houston (MCO - IAH) $48+
• Flight Chicago - Houston (ORD - IAH) $53+
• Flight Miami - Houston (MIA - IAH) $53+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Houston (FLL - IAH) $60+
• Flight Detroit - Houston (DTW - IAH) $61+

Las Vegas Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Las Vegas (LAX - LAS) $21+
• Flight Burbank - Las Vegas (BUR - LAS) $39+
• Flight Oakland - Las Vegas (OAK - LAS) $39+
• Flight Santa Ana - Las Vegas (SNA - LAS) $39+
• Flight Portland - Las Vegas (PDX - LAS) $56+
• Flight Houston - Las Vegas (HOU - LAS) $66+
• Flight Houston - Las Vegas (IAH - LAS) $66+
• Flight Denver - Las Vegas (DEN - LAS) $68+
• Flight Atlanta - Las Vegas (ATL - LAS) $70+
• Flight Baltimore - Las Vegas (BWI - LAS) $71+
• Flight San Francisco - Las Vegas (SFO - LAS) $76+
• Flight Chicago - Las Vegas (ORD - LAS) $79+

Miami Flights

• Flight Baltimore - Miami (BWI - MIA) $33+
• Flight Atlanta - Miami (ATL - MIA) $38+
• Flight Chicago - Miami (ORD - MIA) $39+
• Flight Philadelphia - Miami (PHL - MIA) $39+
• Flight Boston - Miami (BOS - MIA) $45+
• Flight Dallas - Miami (DFW - MIA) $46+
• Flight Charlotte - Miami (CLT - MIA) $58+
• Flight Houston - Miami (HOU - MIA) $59+
• Flight Houston - Miami (IAH - MIA) $59+
• Flight Detroit - Miami (DTW - MIA) $66+
• Flight Minneapolis - Miami (MSP - MIA) $74+
• Flight Cincinnati - Miami (CVG - MIA) $78+
• Flight Raleigh - Miami (RDU - MIA) $81+
• Flight Denver - Miami (DEN - MIA) $88+
• Flight Cleveland - Miami (CLE - MIA) $99+
• Flight Los Angeles - Miami (LAX - MIA) $111+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - Miami (DCA - MIA) $159+
• Flight New York - Miami (JFK - MIA) $163+
• Flight Seattle - Miami (SEA - MIA) $178+
• Flight Ontario - Miami (ONT - MIA) $183+

San Francisco Flights

• Flight Ontario - San Francisco (ONT - SFO) $48+
• Flight Los Angeles - San Francisco (LAX - SFO) $69+
• Flight Phoenix - San Francisco (PHX - SFO) $73+
• Flight Denver - San Francisco (DEN - SFO) $78+
• Flight San Diego - San Francisco (SAN - SFO) $91+
• Flight Santa Ana - San Francisco (SNA - SFO) $98+
• Flight Dallas - San Francisco (DFW - SFO) $101+
• Flight Chicago - San Francisco (MDW - SFO) $112+
• Flight Seattle - San Francisco (SEA - SFO) $134+
• Flight Minneapolis - San Francisco (MSP - SFO) $136+
• Flight Chicago - San Francisco (ORD - SFO) $155+
• Flight Houston - San Francisco (HOU - SFO) $160+
• Flight Houston - San Francisco (IAH - SFO) $160+
• Flight Austin - San Francisco (AUS - SFO) $174+

Seattle Flights

• Flight Phoenix - Seattle (PHX - SEA) $79+
• Flight Oakland - Seattle (OAK - SEA) $82+
• Flight Burbank - Seattle (BUR - SEA) $85+
• Flight Ontario - Seattle (ONT - SEA) $87+
• Flight Santa Ana - Seattle (SNA - SEA) $88+
• Flight Los Angeles - Seattle (LAX - SEA) $90+
• Flight Denver - Seattle (DEN - SEA) $93+

Paris Flights

• Flight Boston - Paris (BOS - CDG) $289+
• Flight Baltimore - Paris (BWI - CDG) $293+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - Paris (IAD - CDG) $293+
• Flight New Windsor - Paris (SWF - CDG) $296+
• Flight Newark - Paris (EWR - ORY) $412+
• Flight Boston - Paris (BOS - ORY) $414+
• Flight New York - Paris (JFK - ORY) $419+

Europe Flights

• Flight Newark - Barcelona (EWR - BCN) $349+
• Flight New York - Madrid (JFK - MAD) $406+
• Flight New York - Athens (JFK - ATH) $417+
• Flight New York - Rome (JFK - FCO) $417+

Florida Flights

• Flight Baltimore - Florida (BWI - USFL) $33+
• Flight Philadelphia - Florida (PHL - USFL) $37+
• Flight Chicago - Florida (ORD - USFL) $39+
• Flight Newark - Florida (EWR - USFL) $39+
• Flight Boston - Florida (BOS - USFL) $45+
• Flight New York - Florida (LGA - USFL) $55+
• Flight Dallas - Florida (DFW - USFL) $58+

Dallas Flights

• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Dallas (FLL - DFW) $37+
• Flight Atlanta - Dallas (ATL - DFW) $39+
• Flight Chicago - Dallas (ORD - DFW) $39+
• Flight Phoenix - Dallas (PHX - DFW) $39+
• Flight Tampa - Dallas (TPA - DFW) $47+
• Flight Baltimore - Dallas (BWI - DFW) $56+
• Flight Minneapolis - Dallas (MSP - DFW) $57+

San Diego Flights

• Flight Houston - San Diego (HOU - SAN) $39+
• Flight Houston - San Diego (IAH - SAN) $39+
• Flight San Jose - San Diego (SJC - SAN) $39+
• Flight Sacramento - San Diego (SMF - SAN) $48+
• Flight Oakland - San Diego (OAK - SAN) $54+
• Flight Phoenix - San Diego (PHX - SAN) $56+
• Flight San Francisco - San Diego (SFO - SAN) $68+

Frequently asked questions

What do i need to know before booking a flight.

There are various factors to consider when booking a flight including cost, fare classes, baggage policies, the complications of flying long haul, and complying with airport regulations. To make your booking journey smoother KAYAK has developed a comprehensive flight guide including insights on finding affordable flights, packing efficiently, and utilizing the best travel tools.

Which month of the year are flight prices lowest?

It’s well established that flights in the low season are generally cheaper than ticket prices during the high season. That means that knowing which month to find the lowest priced plane tickets will depend heavily on seasonality and your destination. While avoiding peak travel times can help you keep costs down, our data shows that the month with the lowest priced plane tickets for domestic flights based on all searches made on KAYAK in the last 12 months was January, while the most expensive was March. If you’re booking an international flight, then January is the cheapest month to fly and June the most expensive.

Can flying international flights with a layover save money on airfare?

For many long-haul international flights, flying non-stop is not possible and you will have to fly with a layover. Some routes will offer both and you could consider flying with a layover for a number of reasons. Firstly, breaking up what would otherwise be a long-haul flight, taking a rest and then completing the journey might make the flight more manageable. Secondly, prices can also be lower than non-stop flights, so while it might take longer for you to reach your destination, you could save money. We’ve looked at prices over the last 12 months for the 100 most popular international destinations for KAYAK users and on average, prices for non-stop flights were cheaper than flights with a layover.

How do I find the best flight deals on KAYAK?

A simple flight search at https://www.kayak.com/flights scans for prices on hundreds of travel sites in seconds. We gather flight deals from across the web and put them in one place. Then on the search results page you can use various filters to compare options for the same flight and easily choose the best flight deal from all of the deals coming straight from the travel sites to your screen, with no extra fee from KAYAK.

Does KAYAK query more flight providers than competitors?

Yes, KAYAK has access to more data and information than online travel agencies and consistently outperforms the competition in accuracy, globally.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you flights up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. That way, you can see if leaving a day or two earlier will find you a better deal. You can also select the flexible "weekend" or "month" search options to widen your search range and find the cheapest price that works for you.

What is the cheapest day of the week to book a flight?

The best day to book your flight depends on a number of factors, but there are general trends that you can follow to increase your chances of cheaper plane tickets. Based on an analysis of KAYAK data for all flights departing from inside United States over the last 12 months, the cheapest day to fly for domestic flights is Wednesday. For international flights, Tuesday had the cheapest tickets on average.

When is the best time to buy plane tickets - Last minute or in advance?

Last minute flight deals are definitely up for grabs but when exactly to purchase your plane tickets will depend on where you’re traveling to and from. Based on all data for flight searches made on KAYAK over the last 12 months, prices for domestic flights remained below the average price up to 1 weeks before departure. For international flights, deals could still be had up to 1 weeks prior to the departure date, with prices remaining below average. If you’re flexible, KAYAK brings you both advance and last minute one-way and round-trip flight deals.

How does KAYAK find such low flight prices?

KAYAK processes over 2 billion flight queries annually and displays results from hundreds of airlines and third party sites, allowing it to find a variety of flight prices and options. It also displays results from 2M+ properties along with rental cars, vacation packages, activities and millions of verified reviews so users can see as many available travel options as possible.

How can Hacker Fares save me money?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets on different airlines when it can save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Search cheap flights with KAYAK. Search for the cheapest airline tickets for all the top airlines around the world and the top international flight routes . KAYAK searches hundreds of travel sites to help you find cheap airfare and book a flight that suits you best. Since KAYAK searches many plane ticket sites at once, you can find cheap tickets from cheap airlines and for trains and buses quickly.

KAYAK also helps you find the right hotels for your needs.

10 Surprisingly Cheap Places To Live Around The World

• Thailand: Affordable cost of living, comfortable apartments under $1,000/month, cheap healthcare, and friendly locals.
• Colombia: Affordable destinations, modern cities, great healthcare, cheap apartments, and friendly, welcoming people.
• Vietnam: A cost of living that seems stuck in the past, affordable apartments under $500/month, cheap street food, rich culture, and stunning landscapes.

With the rising costs of living in many major cities and countries around the world, finding an affordable place to live can seem like a daunting task. However, there are still many destinations where their dollar can go a long way, offering a high quality of life for a fraction of what visitors may pay elsewhere.

From tropical paradises to some of the most livable European cities , these surprisingly cheap places to live around the world allow travelers to stretch their budget further while still enjoying warm and welcoming locals, diverse cultural experiences, and an overall fulfilling lifestyle.

Whether visitors are looking to relocate long-term or spend an extended period living abroad, visitors may be delighted by just how far their money can go in these affordable havens scattered across the globe. Read on for some of the most affordable countries to move to where people can comfortably live on a budget.

Related: Top 10 Towns To Retire For Cheap, For An Easy (& Affordable) Retirement

With its tropical beaches, flavorful cuisine, and rich Buddhist culture, Thailand has long been popular among expats and is one of the best countries for digital nomads . Fortunately, the cost of living remains highly affordable here as well.

In Bangkok, visitors can find comfortable apartments for under $1,000 per month. Head to smaller cities like Chiang Mai, and travelers will find prices even lower. Add in cheap healthcare, affordable public transportation, and bulk produce at local markets, and their daily costs will be a fraction of what visitors pay in the West.

The friendly, welcoming locals also make it easy to feel at home quickly. With one of the largest expat communities in Southeast Asia, it’s easy to meet others and make new friends in Thailand as well. Yet Thailand still retains its own unique culture, cuisine, and landscapes that give day-to-day life an exotic twist.

• Locals : Known as the "Land of Smiles," Thai people are warm, helpful hosts.
• Highlights : Tropical beaches, flavorful cuisine, fascinating history and culture, blend of Buddhist temples, mountain villages, and fast-paced Bangkok.

After decades of instability, Colombia has re-emerged as a diverse, cosmopolitan destination with an affordable cost of living. Plus, there are many incredible places in Colombia to explore.

Major cities like Medellín and Bogotá now have modern conveniences, great healthcare, and a lively cafe culture. Rent for a nice apartment can cost $500-$800 per month. Fresh tropical produce is cheap and plentiful. Even going out for an upscale meal generally costs under $20 per entrée.

The dramatic Andean landscapes provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. But visitors will also find colonial architecture, museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions, especially in the cities. Colombians are also known to be some of the friendliest, most welcoming people in South America. Given its growing expat communities, making new friends and local connections comes easily here.

• Locals : Colombians are known for being warm, welcoming hosts.
• Highlights : Dramatic landscapes, cosmopolitan cities, vibrant cafe culture, a blend of indigenous, European, and Afro-Colombian influences.

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Vietnam combines historic charm, breathtaking scenery, and 21st-century conveniences with a cost of living that seems stuck in the past. Expats can comfortably get by spending around $800-$1,200 per month. Rent, even in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, rarely exceeds $500 for a modern apartment. Vietnamese street food often costs $2-3 per meal. High-speed internet, new malls, and modern healthcare make Vietnam feel far from a "developing" country.

Beyond the urban comforts, Vietnam's star attraction is its striking landscapes of emerald rice paddies, dramatic limestone karsts, and pristine beaches. Vietnamese culture draws from both gritty, modern cities and tranquil, Buddhist country villages. The Vietnamese are also eager to share their proud heritage with newcomers. English levels are fairly high, especially in the tourism industry.

• Locals : Vietnamese are proud of their culture and eager to share it.
• Highlights : Striking landscapes, historic sites, modern conveniences, a mix of tranquil villages, gritty cities, beaches, and mountains.

As one of western Europe’s most affordable destinations, Portugal proves travelers don’t have to break the bank to enjoy cobblestone streets, medieval castles, and beautiful Atlantic coastlines.

The country’s capital Lisbon was named the most budget-friendly destination in Europe . The laid-back pace of life, seafood-heavy cuisine, and idyllic climate don’t hurt either. Even in Lisbon, expect rental prices around €800-€1,200 for a centrally located one-bedroom apartment. The farther from the capital visitors go the lower prices get. And Portugal’s central location makes it easy to explore Europe on a budget.

Beyond affordability, Portugal is also safer, less crowded, and more exotic feeling than many other European destinations. The Portuguese people strike a unique balance between old-world charm and cosmopolitan modernity. Traditions like Fado music and evening strolls persist in many neighborhoods. Yet Portugal is also diverse, tolerant, and highly educated. English proficiency is high in major cities like Lisbon and Porto.

• Locals : Laidback, tolerant attitude, and English proficiency.
• Highlights : Lovely architecture, temperate climate, historic sites, a mix of major cities, fishing villages, surfing towns, and rolling vineyards.

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Mexico continues to fly under the radar as one of the most affordable and livable places in the Americas. While big cities like Mexico City and beach resorts like Tulum have seen prices rise, much of the country still offers superb value. Even in Mexico City, visitors can find a nice apartment for $500-$800 per month. Budget around $1,000-$1,500 per month in smaller cities and towns, enjoying amenities from high-speed internet to well-stocked supermarkets.

Beyond the costs, Mexico offers perfect weather, mild winters, spicy cuisine, and cultural riches. Pre-Columbian ruins coexist with colonial architecture and modern megacities. With growing expat communities across the country, Mexico provides the amenities and comforts of home alongside authentic local experiences.

As travelers pick up more Spanish, visitors will find Mexicans to be extremely friendly, welcoming hosts eager to share their love for family, food, and fiestas.

• Locals : Mexicans are warm and eager to welcome newcomers.
• Highlights : Amazing food, perfect weather, stunning beaches, a mix of modern cities, colonial towns, indigenous villages, and ancient ruins.

From the activity-packed Buenos Aires to the towering peaks of Patagonia, Argentina is one of South America’s most diverse and captivating destinations. The crises of recent decades have also kept prices low, making Argentina extremely affordable for visitors and expats.

Visitors can expect to pay around $700-$1,000 per month for an apartment in Buenos Aires. Prices get even lower in smaller cities like Mendoza or Córdoba. Public transportation, locally grown produce, and empanada street snacks are equally easy on their wallet.

Beyond the affordability, Argentina offers world-class wine and cuisine, outdoor adventures, and steamy tango dancing. Argentines are also famously friendly and cultured, with high levels of university education. Making local friends comes easily, especially in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. The classic cafés and lively nightlife make it easy to fall in love with this country of contrasts.

• Locals : Argentines are cultured and eager to welcome newcomers.
• Highlights : Captivating blend of European and Latin American lifestyles, cosmopolitan cities, wine regions, and Patagonian wilderness.

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Malaysia is another one of the cheapest places to live in the world. It offers an affordable tropical lifestyle in a stable, prosperous country with excellent infrastructure. While Kuala Lumpur and beach resorts like Langkawi have seen major growth, it’s still possible to find apartments in KL for around $500-$700 per month.

Head to smaller cities like Penang or Malacca, and visitors can slash their rental costs even further. Add in cheap, delicious street food, affordable public transportation, and wages that stretch further thanks to the exchange rate. Beyond the costs, Malaysia offers a unique fusion of cultures.

Modern skyscrapers look over decades-old shophouses in ethnically diverse cities. Lush rainforests and alluring beaches are never far away. English is also widely spoken, especially in major tourism centers. Transportation networks, healthcare, and telecommunications are all highly modern and accessible. It’s an appealing blend for an affordable, cosmopolitan lifestyle immersed in Southeast Asian culture.

• Locals : Warm, multicultural society with strong English abilities.
• Highlights : Tropical landscapes, beautiful beaches, diverse cuisine, a mix of rainforests, metropolises, colonial architecture, and idyllic islands.

From the renowned and must-visit Machu Picchu to the foodie haven of Lima, Peru seamlessly blends Incan history with modern amenities. The cost of living is also still a major bargain, especially outside of touristy Lima. In smaller cities like Arequipa or Trujillo, expect rental prices between $300-$600 for a nice apartment. Shared taxis, or colectivos, cost mere dollars to crisscross towns. Street food and produce markets provide nourishment on the cheap. Peru’s continued development boom means visitors will still enjoy modern conveniences.

Beyond affordability, Peru offers access to some of South America’s top highlights, from Lake Titicaca to the Sacred Valley. The cultural sights and outdoor adventures are endless. Peruvians also have a zest for life, famous cuisine, and vibrant traditions that add to the appeal. English levels are fairly high in tourist areas as well.

• Locals : Peruvians are enthusiastic hosts eager to share their love of life.
• Highlights : Access to Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, the Amazon rainforest, a blend of indigenous villages, colonial cities, and cosmopolitan Lima.

Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey combines dynamic cosmopolitan cities, timeless villages, and over 8,000 km of Mediterranean coastline. While Istanbul and beach resorts have seen major tourism growth, it’s still possible to snap up apartments for under $500 per month in most Turkish cities. Groceries sold at small markets are similarly affordable. Intercity buses, street food, and other daily costs are all easy on their wallet.

Turkey’s affordability doesn’t mean skimping on culture or modern conveniences. Ancient sites like Ephesus exist alongside major metropolises like Ankara and Izmir. Grand mosques and steamy bazaars give way to lively cafés and swanky cocktail bars. Turkey’s continued economic rise means world-class infrastructure, healthcare, and amenities.

The Turks are also famously hospitable, eager to welcome newcomers with tea or a shared meal. While English is less common outside tourist zones, learning Turkish opens doors to authentic local experiences.

• Locals : Turks take pride in hospitality and cultural traditions.
• Highlights : Gorgeous coastline, dramatic landscapes, ancient sites, a blend of bustling Istanbul, coastal villages, and Cappadocia’s whimsical “fairy chimneys.”

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Rounding out the list is Spain; not only are there plenty of cheap hotels in Spain , but the country also offers continental European charm on a budget. While prices in Barcelona and Madrid have risen, mid-sized cities like Valencia and Bilbao retain surprisingly affordable rental rates of around €600-€800 per month. The costs of dining out, entertainment, groceries, and transportation remain budget-friendly as well. Spain’s excellent universal healthcare keeps medical costs low, too.

Beyond affordability, Spain entices visitors with its relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. The climate is perfect for coastal living and hour-long lunches outdoors. Historic sites and diverse landscapes inspire exploration, from winding medieval quarters to the alien terrain of volcanic Lanzarote. Spaniards are also extremely social and welcoming, with cities staying lively late into the night.

Spain’s continued modernization and growth make integrating seamless as well. English abilities and expat communities are both extensive. Infrastructure and amenities match the highest global standards. It’s easy to see why Spain remains such a beloved expat haven.

• Locals : Social and lively Spanish culture.
• Highlights: Relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, historic architecture, cosmopolitan cities, idyllic islands, ancient ruins, and rolling countryside.

I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

• Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
• She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
• In Guatemala, she climbed an active volcano, and in Ecuador, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I visited Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

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In the city, I also had a Turkish bath, which is a big thing in Georgia. I got a full scrub down.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. I am hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

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