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10 Incredible Trips Under $1,000

Avital Andrews

Avital Andrews, SmarterTravel's editor-at-large, is a travel and lifestyle journalist who is also a contributing editor for AAA's Via magazine. Her stories have been among the 10 most emailed or viewed on the Los Angeles Times, Outside, Sierra, and SmarterTravel websites, and have also appeared in USA Today, HuffPost, Apple News, Business Insider, and many other nationwide outlets. Her travel book , sold at bookstores and on Amazon, is in its fourth edition, and her journalism gets national media attention, including from The New York Times , The Atlantic , Time , NPR, and MTV. She's currently working on her first children's book. Follow her on Twitter @avitalb .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: My laptop—the lightweight and stylish HP Spectre x360—since I'm almost always on deadline.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: A round-the-world cruise that makes stops to experience Aurora Borealis, the Olympics opening ceremony, Borneo, Madagascar, the Jerusalem Festival of Light, the Bolivian salt flats, Kenya's Giraffe Manor, the Galapagos, the Maldives, Bora Bora, the Seychelles, and every Disney park. (That itinerary definitely exists, right?)

Travel Motto: I'll steal Saint Augustine's: "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: Window, always. For the views and also the naps.

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These days, finding vacations under $1,000 seems like a tall order. But it’s far from impossible. There are plenty of places, and types of journeys, that fit the bill. To help kickstart your travel planning, here’s a roundup of spectacular getaways that let you keep your trips under $1,000 per person—or sometimes even per couple.

Paris, France

At press time, winter flights to Paris from San Francisco or New York City were available for less than $350 round-trip on Priceline . To save money on accommodations, you can sleep in a hostel dorm room for as little as $20 per person, per night, or book an Airbnb room in someone’s home for a similar nightly rate. Alternatively, most hostels have no-frills private rooms that don’t cost too much more per person than a bed in a dorm.

If you’re a member of HomeExchange , you can take a two-week vacation to Paris with your whole family, and accommodations would run you just $150 total (the cost of an annual membership on the site). Et voila! A full French vacation for ridiculously little.

When it comes time to eat, pick up a baguette, a slab of brie, charcuterie meats, and a bottle of inexpensive but delicious local wine. Then find a place at Champs de Mars or in Bois de Boulogne, spread out a blanket, and enjoy a memorable pique-nique. Street vendors and outdoor markets offer cheap but delicious fare throughout the city. As for getting around town, the Metro is easy and affordable, and there are few better cities for walking than Paris.

Luckily, Paris boasts loads of free and timeless attractions, including Jardin du Luxembourg , Jardin des Tuileries , the Musée d’Art Moderne , and the Fragonard Perfume Museum . Admission to the Louvre is just 15 euros. And strolling through the fancy boutiques of the Champs d’Elysee, the art stalls of Montmartre, the bridges over the Seine, or the romantic scenery of the Left Bank all cost absolutely rien.

Check Prices for Hotel Joke – Astotel in Paris

Japan doesn’t exactly top most people’s mental lists of places to vacation affordably—but it’s possible to find surprisingly cheap flights there from the West Coast, including some for less than $500 round-trip on sites like JustFly . (Avoid the spring and fall high seasons for lower fares.)

If you’re not opposed to sleeping in a capsule hotel—hostel-like facilities with tiny private rooms and shared bathrooms—you can nab nightly rates around $50. And if you’re willing to put in some elbow grease, like cleaning or gardening, some hostels let you stay for free .

Are you a fan of sushi or ramen? Good. Eating in Japan will be easy and cheap. And Japan’s version of dollar stores are the famous “100-yen” shops, where you can also pick up meals.

Getting around Japan is a bit trickier on a budget. Avoid taxis and high-speed trains, unless saving time is more important than saving money. You can buy a Japan Rail Pass for about $275 per week, which will grant you access to some, but not all, of the country’s high-speed trains.

A Grutt Pass —less than $20—buys you affordable access to many of Tokyo’s museums and temples. Many of Japan’s other museums are free or almost free.

(More interested in traveling to Southeast Asia? Use frequent flyer miles to get there. “Once your tickets are taken care of,” says Gary Leff, who cofounded InsideFlyer and runs the popular View From the Wing blog, “you want to fly far away to where costs are low. That way you can stretch your dollars without feeling like you’re stretching your dollars. Indulgences like spa treatments can cost around $35 an hour if you go to the better local places in Bangkok, and meals, lodging, and transportation are comparatively cheap.”)

Check Prices for Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku in Shinjuku

If it’s a quieter vacation you’re after, take a trip to Finland—a country that has “silence, please” as one of its slogans. Flights from New York to Helsinki were $320 in mid-September, a lovely time of year to visit, though airfare is often even cheaper in January, if the cold never bothered you anyway.

Finland is famous for its natural attractions, so if that’s your thing, you’ll find campgrounds around the country, offering accommodations that cost less than $30 per night. Otherwise, stick to hostels or Airbnb rentals , where you can book a night’s sleep for as little as $20 per night.

Buy a Helsinki Card (less than $80 for a three-day card), which covers all your public transportation needs, entrance fees to popular attractions, and bus and boat sightseeing tours. Buffets are a great way to get a lot of food for not a lot of money in Finland—for about $15 you can load up on traditional all-you-can-eat fare, helping you stick to your goal of keeping your trip under $1,000.

Check Prices for Anna Hotel in Helsinki

Portugal is one of Europe’s most affordable countries for travelers. Lisbon’s hotels and restaurants are markedly less expensive than those in other iconic European cities—and you can slash your travel expenses even more by staying at a hostel or family-run inn called pensão .

Those looking to keep their vacations under $1,000 should keep in mind that the most affordable time to visit Portugal is outside of its summer high season. These months are also less crowded, though the weather remains lovely through much of spring and fall. And even winter offers warm-ish days; January is the cheapest time to fly into Lisbon, though it’s not a stretch to find mid-September flights there from New York for around $325 round-trip.

Portugal offers plenty of worthwhile free attractions, including churches. Many of the country’s museums are free on Sundays and occasionally at other times as well; check in advance to find out when. The country has 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, with generally affordable admission fees.

Portuguese transportation options, including buses and trains, are efficient and budget-friendly. It’s also easy to get around on foot or by rental bike as well. Add all this up, and you’ve got a European slam dunk for those who refuse to let their strict $1,000 budget interfere with having an amazing vacation.

(Tip: Whenever you’re in Europe, EasyJet is a fantastic way to get from city to city or country to country—the company offers flights from $40 all over the continent.)

Check Prices for Ibis Lisboa Saldanha in Lisbon

Puerto morelos, mexico.

Fly into Cancun—round-trip fall fares from Houston were less than $180 in a recent search—and head 15 minutes south to Puerto Morelos, where great beaches and affordable food await.

Velas Condos offers accommodations for two starting around $60 per night, or stay at Posada Amor from just $43 per night. You’ll be close to one of the world’s great dive sites, so pack bring your own snorkeling equipment or rent a set for $8 , then prepare yourself for the dazzling underwater sights.

While you’re here, go ahead and skip the touristy restaurants. Instead, walk or take a cab to where the locals eat and enjoy full meals of tacos, burritos, and pizzas for less than $10.

(If you prefer the Baja California side of Mexico, the Black Bass Lodge in Punta Abreojos rents rooms for less than $150 a night. The property is known for offering legendary surfing and fishing adventures.)

Check Prices for Posada Amor in Puerto Morelos

Los angeles, california.

Even if you’re not driving in from elsewhere on the West Coast, Los Angeles can make for an affordable vacation. The City of Angels offers an official list of 100 free things to in Los Angeles , which includes some truly rich cultural experiences, like the Getty , the Broad , the California Science Center , and the Griffith Observatory (yes, of La La Land fame), as well as some more fun touristy things, like the Hollywood Walk of Fame .

It’s not difficult to find round-trip flights from New York City to LAX for less than $270; pair that with a two-night stay at a property like the Westin Los Angeles Airport , the Westin Pasadena , or the Westin Long Beach (all around $170 per night), and you’ve got yourself a dynamic couples’ vacation under $1,000, especially if you stick to cheap eats and the aforementioned free activities. At prices like these, even a family vacation is more affordable.

Check Prices for The Westin Long Beach in Long Beach

West virginia.

You may have never considered taking a trip to West Virginia—but you should. Especially if you’re on the hunt for the best vacations under $1,000. And especially if you’re a fan of riding rivers.

A resort called Adventures on the Gorge offers the chance to raft Class IV rapids during an all-inclusive vacation under $1,000. Less than $600 gets you two nights in a cabin, plus most meals, a half-day of stand-up paddleboarding, a zip-line canopy adventure, and a full day of rafting Lower New River’s wild rapids.

In early June, American Airlines flies from Washington Dulles to Charleston, West Virginia, for around $340. But nearly half of the United States population is within driving distance of the Mountain State, so it’s a great option for a budget-friendly road trip—especially when the trees turn vivid colors in the fall and the waterfalls roar.

Along the gorgeous 180-mile Route 60 Midland Trail is a beachy, laid-back restaurant called Tricky Fish , serving up tasty seafood entrees for less than $15. On Interstate 64, Kenova’s Famous Griffith Pumpkin House is a vintage attraction that gets decked out with more than 3,000 jack-o-lanterns come October, and admission is free.

Check Prices for Adventures on the Gorge – Lodging in Lansing

When you think of all-inclusive vacations under $1,000, Hawaii probably doesn’t come to mind first. But a round-trip flight from LAX to Honolulu or Kahului can actually cost as little as $350, while high-quality hotels like Honolulu’s centrally located Aqua Skyline at Island Colony —housed in Waikiki’s tallest building—offer sweeping ocean views, not to mention nightly rates starting as low as $109. Add up the flight and a two-night stay, and Hawaii starts to reveal itself as one of the most attractive vacations under $1,000 for couples.

More interested in staying on the Valley Isle? The Aston at Maui Banyan has rates starting around $170 per night, plus a swimmable beach within easy walking distance, two pools, a tennis court, and guest rooms with kitchens and laundry machines, helping to keep their guests’ trips under $1,000.

Tip: Both hotels listed above offer Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals that make it even easier to keep vacations under $1,000. Book on either of those days of the year and get 30 percent off the properties’ best available room rates.

Check Prices for Aston at the Maui Banyan in Kihei

When you’re looking for vacation packages under $1,000, don’t rule out cruises. There are plenty of ocean journeys that fit the bill, especially if your embarkation port is within driving distance of your home, allowing you to avoid shelling out for airfare. As a result, you can turn any cruise deal that you find into an all-inclusive vacation under $1,000.

At press time Princess Cruises was offering Caribbean sailings from Fort Lauderdale starting at just $299 per person, as well as autumn trips to Canada and New England from New York City starting at $537 per person. These prices include all meals, select beverages, and a wide range of entertainment from theater productions to Zumba classes.

Or you can consider a cruise aboard one of the Maine Windjammer Association ’s ships, which are perfect for solo travelers and start at $675 per person, a rate that includes lodging, all meals (including a lobster dinner), a daily hors d’oeuvres-packed happy hour, and the chance to steer the vessel.

To find great prices on cruises, and for your best chance at booking all-inclusive vacations under $1,000, plan to sail when kids are in school, or wait for last-minute deals when cruise lines are looking to fill empty cabins.

A Volunteer Vacation

Your travels shouldn’t just be about you. Ideally, your explorations should leave the places you visit—and the planet as a whole—better, not worse.

Enter International Volunteer HQ, a volunteer organization that has helped more than 100,000 travelers improve more than 50 places around the world , including Colombia, Croatia, Morocco, Ghana, Kenya, Fiji, and Nepal.

If you’re trying to plan trips under $1,000, this is a wonderfully meaningful way to do it. IVHQ’s journeys start from just $180 for a full week (plus a registration fee of $299). A weeklong program in Lima, Peru, for example, costs around $480, while a similar setup in the Philippines costs around $560.

The price includes lodging, food, airport transfers, and an orientation event to help you succeed in your volunteer work, which might involve teaching kindergarten, childcare, animal care, or construction work. Participants have the weekends free to explore their host countries at leisure.

The trick here is to get affordable airfare to wherever you’ll be headed, so don’t hesitate to call the airlines or a travel agency to help you find the best deal. To keep your vacation under $1,000, research the high and low seasons for travel in your desired destination; you’ll find cheaper fares if you fly at a time when most tourists aren’t visiting. See The 10 Best Flight Search Sites for Booking Cheap Airfare for guidance on where to search for flights.

What to Wear on Your Next Trip

Women’s fall outfit with mustard accents and expensive coat, shop the look.

Double Breasted Alpaca Blend Coat

Editor Slingback

Knotted Strap Faux Leather Tote

Turtleneck Ribbed Top

Kick Crop Work Pant

Women’s fall dark dress outfit with brown bag.

Power Gemstone Stud Earrings

Paisley Satin Midi Puff Sleeve Dress

Cadence Bag

Chenille Longline Cardigan

Western Boot

Men’s casual travel outfit for the fall.

Water Resistant Fleece Lined Hooded Jacket

Flannel Sunday Shirt

Slim Fit Chino Premium Pants

Arroyo Sneakers

Men’s cool jacket from everlane outfit for the fall/autumn.

Double Weave Gingham Check Button-Down Sport Shirt

Stretch Washed Chinos

Nylon Weekender

ReNew Short Parka

Chavito Chukka Boot

Women’s jumpsuit and anti-theft purse outfit.

Tie-Waist Cotton Jumpsuit

Tassel Earrings

Anti-Theft Cross Body Bag

Strappy Sandal

Women’s super stylish yet casual fall dress outfit.

14k Pearl Swing Hoop Earrings

Ribbed Mock Neck Maxi Dress

Foldover Crossbody

Oversized Rib Knit Cardigan

Men’s Peach/Navy Outfit for Mexico

Cotton Short-Sleeve Henley

Solid Boardwalker Shorts

Men's Travel Wallet

Leather Belt

Men's Wool Runners

Men’s jacket with umbrella outfit for the fall.

Windproof Umbrella

Pocket Waterproof Parka

Flecked Cotton-Blend Sweater

Tellis SUD Modern Slim Fit Stretch Twill Pants

Feathercraft Grand Boot

Women’s amazon-based summer dress outfit.

Cotton Crochet Hat

Beach Dress with Pockets

Quad Nail Polish

Ankle Wrap Summer Sandals

Women’s casual outfit for a trip to africa.

Denim Shorts

Bengali Headband

More from SmarterTravel:

• 7 Tropical Vacations Under $500, Including Airfare and Hotel
• The 7 Cheapest Caribbean Islands to Find Your Paradise
• 7 Affordable Off-the-Beaten-Path Beach Vacations

Follow Avital Andrews on Twitter  @avitalb  or on  Facebook .

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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I spent a year traveling the world on $1000 a month. It's normal for people to take a look at my Instagram and assume that I come from money. They assume that I'm traveling on Daddy's dime, whether that be my actual father or a sugar daddy. The reality is that this couldn't be further from the truth. Yes, travel costs money like everything else. However, most people don't realize that travel can be affordable AF. I wasn't sleeping in five-star resorts, but I was traveling the world, and that's all I ever wanted. I spent $1000 per month traveling the world , and here's how I did it.

The travel industry often promotes luxury travel to the masses. As a result, many people believe that you have to spend your entire life's savings on a vacation. As a young girl, I never expected to travel outside of the U.S. It seemed so far out reach since I didn't have a trust fund. After doing research for myself and discovering the true costs of travel, I learned that travel wasn't nearly as expensive as I had initially thought. I realized that travel didn't have to be about all things luxurious and lavish. If I simply wanted to meet people, step outside of my comfort zone, learn languages, and live amongst other cultures, then I could do so on a budget.

I spent two years saving up, as I worked a full time job before I finally took the leap to travel full time for a year. It was the best decision of my life and here's how I made it happen.

It may sound counterproductive, but quitting my job actually made it possible for me to travel on a budget. I saved up for a several years while working so that I could travel long-term without any strings attached.

Instead of paying for rent, I paid for hotels. Instead of dishing out the funds for a car, I spent my money on public transportation and Uber rides. Ultimately, I came up with a game plan and budget that worked perfectly for me. I cut all of my traditional living costs, and put those funds toward different aspects of my travels.

Instead of visiting an expensive spot like Iceland, I opted for a more affordable destination , like Colombia. Accommodation, food, and daily activities were significantly cheaper than if I chose places that would surely drain my bank account within a few days. As a result, I was able to stretch my funds further and travel much longer. I was able to have unforgettable experiences for a fraction of the cost.

Hostels might not be your top pick for travel accommodation, but they can save you thousands of dollars in the long run. I've stayed in hostels that have starting rates at three dollars. I paid less than $25 for most of my hostels and Airbnb rentals, which is approximately $750 a month. Instead of paying for an expensive apartment, I used all of that money towards budget accommodation.

Instead of paying for pricey restaurant food, I made an effort to buy fresh fruit from markets and find local hidden gems. I ventured a few streets beyond the touristic area, only to discover that restaurant food was served at half the price. I've eaten street tacos for 50 cents in Mexico, and $1 lunch plates in Peruvian markets. You'll be pleased to find the cheapest, most authentic, and tastiest food when you eat at locally-owned restaurants.

When you're traveling on a budget, you can't do it all. It's important to prioritize the things on your budget. Personally, I found experiences to be at the top of my priority list, so that's what the bulk of my budget went toward. Others might value staying in fancy hotels, tasting all of the food, or drinking cocktails. Choose wisely when you're deciding where you'd like the bulk of your budget to go.

Did you know that some companies and brands will give you a place to stay in exchange for your skills? It's true! There are plenty of hostels, hotels, and travel companies that need your creativity. For example, I volunteered my time in exchange for a free sailing trip from Panama to Colombia (which was valued at $450). I also met plenty of travelers along the way who were volunteering at hostels in exchange for a free bed.

This is a great way to find a purpose during your travels and build a community during your stay. There are a variety of different websites where you can search for unique volunteer jobs around the world.

You'd be surprised how much money you can save with an open mind. You can find unique jobs in remote destinations, ride in the back of school buses, exchange your skills for a place to stay, sleep on a stranger's couch , and accept invitations whenever a family invites you to dinner at their home. How do I know? I've done all of these things. As a result, I saved money and had dynamic experiences across the globe.

If you want to afford travel, you need to get resourceful. There's an abundance of websites that can help you save thousands of dollars during the planning process. You'll need to spend hours researching flight deals, cheap hostels, and budget hacks. Once you arrive to your destination, you'll need to get resourceful if you want to stick to your budget. You'll need to invest a lot of time, but you'll save even more money in the end.

• Travel Guide

How to travel the world on a budget of $1,000 a month

• 11 minute read

• November 8, 2023

Travel the World on $1,000 per Month – Perception vs Reality

Are you a wanderlust enthusiast with dreams of globe-trotting on a shoestring budget? Eager to explore the world’s wonders without breaking the bank? You’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll unlock the secrets to globe-trotting on just $1,000 a month. From wallet-friendly destinations to savvy strategies for accommodations, activities, and dining, we’re about to embark on an adventure that’s light on the pocket but big on experiences.

Say farewell to financial worries and hello to affordable escapades as we dive into the art of budget travel. Get ready to transform your travel aspirations into real-world exploration, all while keeping an eye on your budget, without sacrificing fun and adventure.

Also, if you are looking best hotels and Homestay deals then we recommend booking your hotels and homestay with  priceline.com

What is budget travel?

Budget travel refers to a style of traveling where individuals or groups prioritize cost-consciousness and financial efficiency while still aiming to have meaningful and fulfilling travel experiences. It is a mindset and approach that focuses on getting the most value and experiences from one’s travel budget.

In essence, budget travel is about exploring the world while being mindful of expenses and finding ways to minimize costs without sacrificing the quality of the journey.

Why travel the world on a budget?

Traveling the world on a budget offers a plethora of compelling reasons that make it an attractive option for many individuals. Here are some of the key motivations behind choosing budget travel:

• Financial Accessibility : Budget travel makes it possible for a broader range of people to explore the world. It eliminates the notion that extensive travel is exclusive to the wealthy, allowing individuals with limited financial resources to embark on international adventures.
• Extended Travel Duration : By carefully managing expenses, budget travelers can extend the duration of their journeys. This enables them to spend more time in each destination, immerse themselves in local culture, and experience a more profound connection with the places they visit.
• Cultural Immersion : Budget travelers often opt for local, budget-friendly accommodations, dine at local eateries, and engage in low-cost or free cultural activities. This immersive approach allows them to connect with local communities, learn about different lifestyles, and gain a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity.
• Spontaneity : Budget travelers are more adaptable and open to spontaneity. They can seize last-minute travel opportunities and explore new destinations, as they are not tied to expensive, pre-arranged itineraries.
• Personal Growth : Traveling on a budget can be a transformative experience. It challenges individuals to become resourceful, adapt to new environments, and solve problems on the go. This fosters personal growth, self-reliance, and the development of valuable life skills.
• Rich Experiences : Budget travelers often prioritize experiences over material possessions. They invest their resources in activities, adventures, and interactions that leave lasting memories, making their journeys more enriching and fulfilling.
• Reduced Environmental Impact : By using public transportation, walking, or carpooling, budget travelers often have a smaller carbon footprint compared to luxury travelers who rely on private transportation. This eco-friendly approach aligns with sustainable and responsible travel.
• Connecting with Like-Minded Travelers : Budget travel fosters a sense of community among travelers who share similar values and interests. Many budget travelers appreciate the camaraderie of fellow backpackers or those pursuing economical travel choices.
• Supporting Local Economies : By staying in local guesthouses, dining at neighborhood restaurants, and purchasing from local markets, budget travelers contribute directly to the economies of the places they visit. This form of responsible tourism can benefit local communities.
• Freedom and Independence : Budget travelers have greater freedom and independence to explore at their own pace. They can change their plans, extend their stay, or venture off the beaten path without being tied to rigid schedules or costly tour packages.
• Valuable Lessons : Traveling on a budget teaches valuable financial management skills. It encourages prudent spending, efficient budgeting, and long-term financial planning.
• Unique Stories and Memories : Budget travel often leads to unique and unexpected experiences, resulting in captivating stories and cherished memories that can be shared with friends and family.

Traveling the world on a budget offers not only financial benefits but also the chance for personal growth, cultural immersion, and a deeper connection with the places visited. It provides a more flexible and sustainable way to explore the world, and it often leads to rich and transformative experiences that stay with travelers for a lifetime.

Choosing your destinations

Choosing your travel destinations wisely is a fundamental step in ensuring a successful budget travel adventure. Here’s a detailed explanation of the key points you’ve highlighted:

Consider the cost of living

When planning a budget trip, it’s essential to research and consider the cost of living in your potential destinations. Some places are naturally more budget-friendly than others. Here’s how to approach this:

• Research : Look into the average prices of accommodation, food, transportation, and activities in various destinations. Numerous online resources and travel guides provide cost-of-living data for different cities and countries.
• Budget Priorities : Consider your personal priorities and interests. If you’re a foodie, you might want to choose destinations with affordable and delicious street food. If you love hiking, seek out places with accessible and inexpensive trails.
• Exchange Rates : Keep an eye on exchange rates, as they can significantly impact your expenses. Choosing a destination with a favorable exchange rate can stretch your budget further.
• Local Economies : Understand the local economy. Smaller towns and rural areas often have lower costs than major tourist hotspots.

Look for deals on flights and accommodation

Securing affordable flights and accommodation is a major part of budget travel planning. Here’s how to go about it:

• Flight Deals : Be on the lookout for flight deals and promotions. Sign up for fare alerts, follow airlines and travel deal websites on social media, and use fare comparison websites to find the best prices.
• Flexible Travel Dates : If your travel dates are flexible, you can take advantage of fare variations. Midweek flights are often cheaper than weekend flights, and flying during non-holiday periods can result in savings.
• Accommodation Discounts : Utilize hotel and booking websites to find accommodation discounts. Many platforms offer loyalty programs, last-minute deals, and rewards for frequent travelers.
• Consider Alternatives : Don’t limit yourself to hotels. Explore options like hostels, guesthouses, Airbnb, or even vacation rentals, which can often be more budget-friendly.

Travel to Less Popular Destinations

Traveling to less popular or off-the-beaten-path destinations can be an effective way to reduce costs and enjoy a more authentic experience:

• Avoid Tourist Crowds : Popular tourist destinations tend to be more expensive due to high demand. By choosing less-visited places, you can often find lower prices for accommodations and activities.
• Discover Hidden Gems : Offbeat destinations often hide hidden gems and unique experiences that are less commercialized and more budget-friendly.
• Support Local Economies : Visiting less popular places can have a positive impact on local communities by distributing the economic benefits of tourism more evenly.

Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

Flexibility with your travel dates can open up opportunities for significant savings:

• Off-Peak Travel : Traveling during the shoulder season or off-peak periods can result in lower prices for accommodation and activities. You’ll also avoid the crowds that flock to popular destinations during peak tourist seasons.
• Last-Minute Deals : Being open to last-minute travel plans can lead to unexpected discounts on flights and accommodations. If you can take advantage of sudden opportunities, you might find great bargains.
• Midweek Travel : Midweek flights and hotel stays are often more affordable than weekends. Flexibility in choosing travel days can help you secure better deals.

Choosing your travel destinations strategically and being mindful of the cost of living, deals on flights and accommodation, less popular destinations, and flexibility with your travel dates can significantly impact your ability to travel the world on a budget of $1,000 a month. These considerations can help you maximize your experiences while minimizing your expenses.

Accommodation

Accommodation is a significant part of a traveler’s budget, and making cost-effective choices can help you stick to your $1,000-a-month budget. Here’s a detailed explanation of the accommodation options you’ve highlighted:

Stay in hostels or guesthouses : Hostels and guesthouses are popular choices for budget travelers. They offer affordable accommodation with communal spaces for socializing. Here’s how to make the most of this option:

• Dormitory Beds : Opt for dormitory-style rooms, which are more budget-friendly than private rooms.
• Amenities : Check the facilities, such as shared kitchens, to cook your own meals, and common areas where you can meet fellow travelers.

Cook your own meals :

Preparing your meals is a great way to save money and have more control over what you eat. Here’s how to do it effectively:

• Choose Accommodations with Kitchens : Look for hostels or apartments with well-equipped kitchens. This allows you to buy groceries and cook your own meals.
• Local Markets : Explore local markets to buy fresh and inexpensive ingredients. It’s an opportunity to sample local produce and connect with the cultu

Consider house sitting or work exchange :

House sitting and work exchange programs offer opportunities to stay in a place for free or at a significantly reduced cost:

• House Sitting : House sitting involves taking care of someone’s home while they are away. In exchange, you get free accommodation.
• Work Exchange : Many places offer work exchange programs, where you work a few hours a day in exchange for accommodation and sometimes meals. Websites like Workaway and HelpX can help you find such opportunities.

Transportation

Efficient transportation choices can save you money and enhance your budget travel experience. Here’s how to make the most of the options you’ve highlighted:

Take public transportation : Public transportation is often the most cost-effective way to get around in many destinations. Here’s how to use it wisely:

• Research Transport Options : Investigate local buses, trams, subways, and trains. Consider purchasing daily or weekly passes for savings.
• Local Insights : Ask locals for advice on the best and most economical ways to use public transportation.

Walk or bike whenever possible : Walking and biking are not only budget-friendly but also great ways to explore and stay active:

• City Exploration : Many cities are pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to discover attractions on foot.
• Rent a Bike : In some places, renting a bike can be a convenient and affordable way to move around, and it provides a unique perspective of the area.

Rent a car or motorbike only if necessary : Renting a vehicle can be costly, so consider it only when it’s essential:

• Rural Exploration : If you plan to explore remote or rural areas where public transportation is limited, renting a car or motorbike can be practical.
• Group Travel : If you’re traveling with a group, splitting the cost of a rental vehicle can make it more cost-effective.

Look for deals on flights and buses : Saving on transportation costs is critical for budget travelers, especially when covering long distances. Here’s how to find deals:

• Flight Deals : Keep an eye out for flight promotions, fare comparison websites, and flexible travel dates to secure affordable airfares.
• Bus Discounts : When taking long-distance buses, research companies known for competitive pricing and book tickets in advance to take advantage of lower rates.

Engaging in activities that don’t strain your budget is crucial for enjoying your travels while staying within your $1,000-a-month limit. Here’s a detailed explanation of the activity options you’ve highlighted:

• Free activities, such as hiking, swimming, and visiting museums :

Exploring free activities is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in your destination without overspending:

• Hiking : Many destinations offer beautiful hiking trails and nature walks. They provide a chance to appreciate the scenery and stay active.
• Swimming : Beaches, lakes, and natural swimming holes are often free and great places to cool off.
• Visiting Museums : Some museums offer free admission on specific days or during certain hours. Research local museums with free entry opportunities.
• Low-cost activities, such as cooking classes, walking tours, and live music :

Low-cost activities allow you to engage with local culture and entertainment without breaking the bank:

• Cooking Classes : Taking a cooking class can be a fun and educational experience, allowing you to learn about local cuisine and prepare a meal at a reasonable cost.
• Walking Tours : Many cities offer affordable or even free walking tours. They provide historical insights and local knowledge.
• Live Music : Check for local live music performances or cultural shows that offer entertainment without a hefty price tag.
• Look for discounts and coupons :

Keep an eye out for discounts and deals to save on activities:

• Coupon Websites : Explore coupon and deal websites specific to your travel destination. They often feature discounts on various activities and services.
• Combo Deals : Look for bundled activity packages, which can offer savings when you plan to do multiple activities.
• Negotiate prices with locals :

In some cultures, bargaining is a common practice, and you can negotiate prices with locals:

• Markets and Street Vendors : When shopping at markets or buying souvenirs from street vendors, try to negotiate for a lower price. Be respectful and polite while haggling.

Staying Safe and Healthy

Ensuring your well-being and safety while traveling is paramount, regardless of your budget. Here are some important considerations and tips to stay safe and healthy during your budget travel adventure:

• Health Insurance : Prioritize your health by having comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Check that it includes repatriation coverage in case of severe illness or injury.
• Travel Vaccinations : Depending on your destination, certain vaccinations or prophylactic medications may be necessary. Consult a travel clinic or your healthcare provider to receive the recommended vaccinations and health advice specific to your itinerary.
• Safety Precautions : Research the safety conditions and common health concerns in the places you plan to visit. Understanding potential risks, such as specific diseases, natural disasters, or political instability, can help you stay informed and make informed decisions.
• Emergency Contacts : Keep a copy of your travel insurance policy and emergency contact numbers with you at all times. Ensure you have access to these details, especially in case of emergencies.
• Government Travel Advisories : Check your government’s travel advisories for your chosen destinations. These advisories provide information on safety, health, and other relevant updates for travelers.
• Scam Awareness : Be aware of common travel scams that can target tourists. Research and understand the typical scams prevalent in your destination to avoid falling victim to them.
• Emergency Budget : Set aside a portion of your budget for unforeseen emergencies or unexpected expenses, such as medical bills or changes in travel plans.
• Prescription Medication : Ensure you have an adequate supply of any prescription medications you may need during your trip. Carry copies of your prescriptions.
• First-Aid Kit : Pack a basic first-aid kit with items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
• Public Transportation : Opt for reliable and well-maintained public transportation options to minimize the risk of accidents.
• Transportation Safety : When using other means of transportation, such as motorbikes or rented vehicles, ensure you are provided with appropriate safety gear and adhere to local traffic laws.
• Cultural Sensitivity : Respect local customs, traditions, and cultural norms. Be aware of dress codes, acceptable behaviors, and any cultural practices in your destination.
• Local Laws : Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations. Ignorance of local laws is not an excuse, and breaking them can lead to legal trouble.

Other Tips for Budget Travel

In addition to staying safe and healthy, here are some general budget travel tips to enhance your experience and make the most of your $1,000-a-month budget:

• Local Currency : Carry local currency in small denominations for convenience and to avoid high exchange rates at airports or currency exchange bureaus.
• Travel Light : Packing efficiently and traveling with minimal luggage can save you money on baggage fees, make transportation easier, and give you more flexibility.
• Stay in Touch : Inform someone you trust about your travel plans, and maintain communication through a reliable method, such as a phone or internet connection.
• Document Important Information : Keep copies of essential documents, including your passport, visa, travel insurance, and contact information in multiple locations, both physical and digital.
• Language Skills : Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can enhance your travel experience and help you communicate more effectively.
• Local Contacts : Consider connecting with locals, fellow travelers, or expats who can offer advice, recommendations, and insights into your destination.
• Emergency Kit : Carry a small emergency kit with items like a flashlight, portable charger, multi-tool, and a basic sewing kit.
• Daily Budget Tracking : Monitor your daily expenses to stay within your budget. Many budget travel apps and spreadsheets are available to help with this.

Embarking on a budget travel adventure, where you aim to explore the world on a budget of $1,000 a month, can be an incredibly rewarding and enriching experience. It requires careful planning, a flexible mindset, and a willingness to embrace a different way of traveling. By following the strategies outlined in this article, you can maximize your budget and make the most of your journey.

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Countries You Can Visit For $1000 Or Less

When I first started this blog three years ago, I made the claim that it’s possible to travel the world for $1000 USD or less per month. And that is a claim I still believe to be true today.

I am confident that if I averaged out the amount of money I’ve spent during all of my own travels, the figure would indeed be right around that $1000/month mark. Of course, there are countries you can visit that will require you to spend much more money, but at the same time, there are plenty of countries you can visit that will allow you to spend less, and in some cases, much less.

The question for this post is – which are the countries that can be visited or lived in for less than that $1000/month figure?

Here is my updated list based on the countries that I have visited myself. (And for those countries I haven’t been to within the past 12 months, I’ve contacted fellow travelers in order to confirm prices, so the information is as up-to-date as possible.)

Western Europe is tough to make happen on $1000/month but it can be possible if you really transform yourself into a budget traveler who is willing to cut costs wherever you can. Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe, on the other hand, are a different story, offering a diverse collection of interesting countries that can be thoroughly explored for much less money. I’ve been spending a great deal of time in this region over the past year and a half myself and I am repeatedly amazed at how good of a value these countries are for travelers. Just head to some of the destinations on the below list and you’ll understand what I’m talking about. In this part of the world, accommodation can be found for less than $15/night and as low as $7/night (for a bed in a dorm room at a hostel), local meals can be eaten for $2 – $10, bus and train transportation is very reasonably priced and other activities (entrance fees) are typically less than in Western Europe as well.

Slovakia Slovenia Croatia Bosnia & Herzegovina Serbia Montenegro Albania Macedonia Bulgaria Romania Moldova Estonia Latvia

Central America & Mexico

Another region of the world that typically falls into the ‘you can travel for $1000/month’ category, you could spend months traveling around most of Central America on a tight budget. I know of many travelers who begin their adventure in a place like Guatemala and several months later, they have still yet to leave. For those interested in a relatively low-cost introduction to the Spanish-speaking world, Central America is a solid option. And if you add Mexico into the mix, you might get stuck in this region forever. Mexico is one of the most underrated countries I’ve ever spent time in. It’s an incredibly diverse land, full of friendly people, with excellent food and intriguing culture everywhere you turn (it’s also much safer than most people think ) and you can experience it all quite well even as a budget traveler.

Panama Costa Rica Nicaragua Honduras El Salvador Guatemala Mexico

With so many countries to choose from, and with most of these countries more than ideal for budget travelers, it’s no wonder that Asia, especially Southeast Asia, is often the first stop on many travelers’ itineraries. With countries such as India and Indonesia offering some of the least expensive travel options on the planet ($500 USD per month is possible) and countries such as Thailand offering some of the best value travel experiences you can find anywhere, Asia is as good as it gets for anyone looking to travel for less than $1000 per month.

Thailand Cambodia Vietnam Laos Malaysia Indonesia Myanmar Bangladesh Nepal Sri Lanka India

I’ve now been to South Africa twice and while my particular trips were not exactly as budget-friendly as usual, I did notice that $1000 per month would allow you to travel quite decently over there. You’d have to pay some attention to what you spend each day, and when it comes to the main attractions (ie. wildlife safaris) you’d want to check out the budget options instead of the pricier game lodges, but budget travelers in South Africa can definitely get by and have as rewarding an experience as anyone else.

Turkey is another country that can be visited for $1000 or less per month, although, that might not be true if you spend a lot of time in Istanbul, a city with prices that are on par with Western Europe. But outside Istanbul, prices drop significantly and $1000 per month is enough money to ensure you don’t end up broke after one week.

Also, over the course of this summer I hope to travel around Georgia, Azerbaijan, Poland and Lithuania, all countries where I’ve been told that $1000 is more than sufficient to travel well. I won’t be spending a full month in each place but I’ll be sure to report back after those visits to let you know how much it really does cost to travel in those areas.

So, even a few years after initially making the ‘travel on $1000 per month’ claim, much of the world can still be seen for this reasonable amount of money. Tell that to those who believe travel requires thousands and thousands of dollars and that it can’t be accomplished on such a low budget. One’s own spending habits and travel style also plays a role naturally, but if you’re able to travel simply (which is not the same as traveling in poverty as some believe), you really are able to experience the world, and benefit from that first-hand education that travel provides, for less money than you are probably spending at home.

Again, the list above consists of countries that I have personally been to so it goes without saying that there are plenty more out there that are perfect for budget travelers. And that’s why I want your input as well!

What country(s) have you traveled to or lived in for $1000 USD per month or less?

New blog posts, honest updates from my 21 years of constant travel, personal recommendations and the best of travel from around the world.

121 Comments

I am thinking about traveling for the first time and my first place Im thinking of stopping in is Ecuador. Can you give me some pointers?

This post was so helpful! EXACTLY what I have been looking for.

Hey earl, you could add hungary to your list. You can rent a complete and nice apartment in budapest for under 500 there on airbnb, eat at local restaurants for under 5 dollar, whole pizza 3-4 dollar, beer 0,50. and budapest is one of the nicest cities of the world. Greetings

Great List, if one can find couchsurfing hosts, even Western Europe can be done under a $1000 a month.

What about two weeks in India to visit Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and jodhpur?

Hey Shanice – Anything is possible…just depends on how you like to travel, how much comfort you need, etc. You could spend two weeks in India on $150 or you could do it on $1000!

Is the $1000 including air-fare?

Depends on where you’re coming from. US-Thailand? No way. US-Central America/Mexico? Definitely.

Having most of my travel experiences from South America, I’ll add in a few countries myself! Peru and Bolivia are definitely doable for less than $1000 a month I know people who have done it in the $600 range before too (Bolivia is a little bit cheaper than Peru). Argentina, depending on how you do it, could be in that range (and also depending on their financial situation), even in Buenos Aires, but you will need to do some research beforehand. The rest of South America can be pretty experience (especially Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay) and those countries fall way out of that range. I’m glad to hear there are still several countries you can travel to on a budget!

I agree – many countries in South America fall into this list. A few years ago I lived in Buenos Aires for around $700/month. I did it (partly) by renting a small room in an apartment in a, safe, more lower-middle-class residential area near San Telmo and Congresso. I also have friends in Santiago, Chile who have lived there for less than $1,000/month.

I would actually add Spain and parts of France to your list. True, it’s not really possible to do this in Paris, the Riveria, Madrid or Barcelona, but get away from the cities and it’s possible. SW France near the Spanish border is cheap as are places like Malaga and Seville in Spain. It’s a bit more difficult, but it can be done.

[…] pre-departure items are fixed. In fact, if you exclude these things, it is feasible to get by on less than $1000/month in many Asian countries, which is in line with my $30/day spent in Northern Thailand, Cambodia, and […]

Hello Claire

Can you give me a rough idea of your itinerary? because I have in mind something similar. And what cloths did you take, did you fit them all in one back pack? because there will be a difference in weather. Also, people have been reporting that India is getting a little dangerous, I am an open minded guy, so I just don’t take these reports serious.

I have traveled China, and Thailand and have always been welcomed.

Great list, India is a great budget travel destination I just returned from four months in India and Nepal and I only spent £2300 including my return flights from the UK. You can definitely travel on a budget, especially if you go out of season you have more room to barter.

hi there again earl! just wondering, have you been to bangkok/pattaya/hatyai in thailand? I think bangkok yes haha. But if you have been to those 3 places, dy know if it’s expensive to visit those places? thanks ia!

Hey Phoebe – It depends on your definition of expensive and your personal travel style. All three of those places can be quite inexpensive and they could also be quite pricey depending on your needs/style.

Nice list Earl, we will be hitting most of these spots on our 2 year RTW. We just did Central America top to bottom. Guatemala is totally do able for your $1000 figure, and there is a ton to see there! Amazing country, if you could pick any country in Central America, I would pick Guatemala!

You can easily add Iran and Bolivia on that list. Iran is as far as I’m aware one of the cheapest countries in the world at the moment. Back in autumn 2012 when I was there a street kebab cost slightly more than a dollar, and a decent dorm room could be had for as little as 3$. And if you are on a real budget and can handle sleeping in repulsive holes, there are places like Milad guesthouse in Kerman where I stayed in a single with toilet/lavatory for an amazing 3$ as well. But they didn’t have a shower in the entire building. I improvised with the water hose for cleaning your behind, oh the memories…

Philippines a possibility as well anybody know? And Korea??

This is such a great resource! And I can completely agree that it is possible, particularly if you have the determination to make it work. This summer I travelled to America for the first time in a few years and was pleasantly surprised about the value for money there if you know where to look! Given that I was staying with friends, I had no accommodation costs, and thus this isn’t necessarily a $1000 a month destination but it is still not bank-breaking.

This post is a great inspiration. I keep going back to it over and over. When I leave my job $1000 a month is excatly what I’ll have to live on!

yeh $1000 is the number Earl – this is what I reckoned on my travels too.

It can be easily done, especially if you’re not a big drinker

We usually travel for three or four months each year, often in Australia or New Zealand which has become very expensive over recent years. We manage to keep our costs down by doing housesitting, which means that not only do we get free accommodation (usually in return for looking after pets while the home owner is away), but also we can keep our eating costs down, by having access to a kitchen, so are able to self cater.

We spent two months housesitting in Sydney from November to January this year. Can you imagine how much that would cost if we had had to pay for accommodation over Christmas and New Year? OH and did I mention we got free use the householder’s cars while they were away, too? 🙂

Ah this is such a brilliant post Earl and has been so helpful in trying to convince a few of my mates that it’s not all about having huge amounts of money. I think it’s the simplicity and appreciation that comes with a cheap cost of living in those sorts of countries that makes them that much more special.

@theboywander: Hopefully your friend will be convinced in the end!

Great list post as always Earl! I thought I might chime in with some thoughts about my favorite continent for travel, South America.

I will definitely second Peru where one can live pretty well (in my experience, specifically in the wonderful city of Arequipa) for under $1,000. I expect you could live on $1,000/month (actually far less) almost anywhere there. This would let you see all the touristy sights and literally eat every meal in a restaurant. I haven’t spent as much time in Ecuador, but combining my experience and that of friends there, the same is possible almost everywhere there (with the exception of the Galapagos where I don’t think you can even stay for a month, if memory serves), even in Quito.

You could conceivably live on less than $1,000 per month in Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile, as I’ve traveled on less than that amount in each of those countries but first some caveats:

(1) Argentina: I wouldn’t want to encourage illegal behavior, but there’s an official exchange rate in the region of 5.50 pesos to the dollar and an unofficial (“blue market”) rate closer to 9.00 pesos per dollar, so depending on which you use your costs will be quite different. That said, I have a friend currently living in Buenos Aires on 4,500 pesos per month which allows him a decent lifestyle and enough to go out on weekends, but not really enough to do overnight trips. Elsewhere in the country, especially the Andean Northwest, can be much cheaper, but keep in mind Patagonia is quite expensive.

(2) Chile is a bit more expensive than Argentina, with basically similar caveats. You could scrape by on $1,000 per month in Santiago, but it’ll go much further in smaller cities. Once again the North (Arica, for example) is much cheaper and I think this budget would be a challenge in Patagonia.

(3) Uruguay is actually the most expensive of the countries. You could just about get by on $1,000 per month in Montevideo and quite easily at various places inland. Also, if you’re not there during peak summer season (December-March) then you can find some great deals in the beach towns (I recommend Cabo Polonio for some serious rustic solitude – I lived there for a week on $150, I’m sure others could for even less with a monthly rental). In the peak season though you’re looking at prices 3-4 times as high.

One general note, the cost of long-distance buses in Argentina (and to a lesser extent Chile) can really add up, but Argentina’s bus system is quite wonderful. As always, if you travel slowly it’ll be cheaper.

I hope this helps.

Hey Jonny, point well taken. I find myself being a little myopic at times. As I’m more of a ruin site freak and not so much a hiker, and also as my visit was over 35 years ago when there was literally no Inca Trail trekking unless you really made over the top expedition plans, I can see how excited you must have been doing your trip. I’m also a train fan and my trip to the site involved a R/T train ride up the canyon with one of the grand daddy of all ruin sites as a prize at the end. I don’t even remember that it could be done by bus in those days. It was the train or nothing, except and “epic” trek. Happy Trails! Steve

Nice reply Steve – yes I loved the Inca Trail due to the hikes and views and camping etc. and even the food was great! After seeing Machu Picchu, we ended up with a day in Aguas Calientes and then got the train back to Ollantaytambo. I dare say that train journey has changed a lot since your day, but it was still fab! Safe travels Jonny

Alio! I’m excited to see that you’re traveling to Lithuania this summer! As a Litho-American who has always been an avid traveler, I’ve never understood how it doesn’t regularly make it to the top of the budget traveler lists. There’s a lot to be said for the lovely simplicity of fields, rivers, forests, potatoes, and sausages!! I just arrived a few days ago and will be here until mid-August…hit me up if you’re around. 🙂

Hey Giedre – I shall let you know for sure. Hoping to get there in either August or September!

I am 19 years old and haven’t specialized in anything, Im generally into fitness. I was thinking about small jobs like teaching english like you said. I asked this because you insisted in a blog on how many opportunities there are out there for making money so please give me a good start place, like thailand (teaching english), australia (picking fruits), indonesia (digging for treasures), anything. I’m sure some countries are better start places for me than others?

Thanks again

Jonny, I have to comment on your view of not being able to see major sites. I’ve been to Machu Picchu and didn’t even think that doing the “Inca Trail” should be a part of the experience. I don’t know how that hike has become such an “important” part of such a prominent ruin site. I think the tour companies have hyped it so much as a way for them to make big bucks, that visitors now think that if they don’t do the trail, they haven’t ‘done’ Machu Picchu. A lot of travelers are traveling on a shoestring and simply don’t have the money to do what vacationers might do. (vacationers have more money than time)

When we were in Arusha, Tanzania, on our RTW trip, we chose not to do the Kilimanjaro climb as it would have blown our budget. Back then, it would only have been $350 for the two of us. But, as we always used to tell ourselves, “That’s a month in India”.

Also, I think what Earl means by a $1,000 a month budget is one that includes a modicum of entertainment money. These $200 and up, costly treks, dives or climbs should be considered outside of the usual traveler’s budget. Just as a WAG, I’ve always thrown in $5 bucks a day into my planning budget for entertainment. So, if I wanted to do an Inca Trail trek, or whatever, I’d lay low for awhile, so there would be money to do it without going into the emergency fund.

Hi Steve – thanks for your comments and we’ll have to agree to disagree I’m afraid…each to their own!! I would only have done Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail. There is no way I would have went all the way to Peru and then cheated and got a bus to Machu Picchu! Or done the Salkantay Trek (which doesnt allow you to waken up at 5am and hike down to admire this lost city) I wanted to do it properly – sleeping in tents, wakening up to epic views and a fantasic hike. I loved it.

I agree with the last bit of your comment though and I use that tactic a lot. If I overspend on a major site, I’ll stay in a cheap hostel for a few days and just write my travel blog without going out and spending a lot of money.

Peru of course can be done on $1000 a month even with the Inca Trail as part of that – couchsurfing and staying with mates on the way will seriously help with that. Safe travels! Jonny

Great list, Earl. I would also be tempted to add China, as I travelled there for around $1000 a month (though it was three years ago), by staying in dorms (which I found to be of a standard on par with or higher than in Western Europe) and travelling by overnight train or bus. If you stayed in private rooms in hotels and flew around the country, it’d probably be too expensive to be on this list, but still.

Thanks Sam…seems like a few people mentioned China, a country I haven’t been to (at least not to the mainland). Maybe I should look at going soon!

Great list! I do feel like I could live on less than $1000 in Hungary, so I would totally recommend it to budget-minded travelers wanting to explore Europe. I’m going to be in Georgia, Armenia, Turkey, and Bulgaria throughout the end of July & August, and am really looking forward to experiencing how cheap they can be 😉

Hey Megan – Hungary works as well. And perhaps I’ll see you in Georgia this summer!

Please Earl what country should I go to as I am looking NOT having to go back home(It really scares me!)… a country where I can make some income to make the story short. What u think? 🙂

Hey Jonas – Like I said, it depends on your skills/knowledge/interests and what kind of work you want to do. There is no one country that offers endless opportunities for everyone unfortunately.

Great post Earl. Do you know any good snow skiing resorts/towns one can stay in for a season on a budget, living in Australia the southern hemisphere options are limited and very very expensive. I hear eastern europe is good though.

Hey Leo – I don’t know of any good ski resorts/towns unfortunately, mainly because I avoid cold weather places as much as possible. However, I have heard that Easter Europe, as you did as well, is a good option. I know there are places right here in Romania that are supposedly cheap and you can live in small towns near Brasov, and be quite close to the mountains.

Interesting take. I’m not a budget traveling, but it’s nice to know that these options are out there!

Great resource! Regarding Europe though — in my experience Croatia is just as expensive as Italy. And Portugal is a Western European country that is really great for budget travelers: Hostels for 17 Euros per night, normally less than 8 Euros for a dinner out and an espresso or a beer is usually only 50 cents.

Hey Julika – I think Croatia can be as expensive as Western Europe but I’ve been a few times and always managed to keep it under $1000/month relatively easily. So it’s definitely possible if you choose accommodation, dining, transportation options carefully. Thanks for adding Portugal…looks like it might be able to visited for around the $1000/month mark with those prices.

Eastern Europe – favorite area of the world to explore. Hope to get back there this year. In the meantime, let’s try and keep it a secret (despite all those great countries on your list) 🙂

Hey Jeremy – Let me know if you make it over to Romania!

Hey Earl, we are traveling (well, living, at the moment) on less than that, which as a couple is much easier due to shared expenses on everything. I think $1000 is a great number for budget travelers as even on that you live and eat like a king in many countries (mostly SE Asia). And I agree, if you are savvy, its much cheaper to travel than people realise.

Hey Sarah – Thanks for the input and I do agree that traveling as a couple can help keep costs even lower. Glad you’re making it happen out there!

Article in England’s Daily Telegraph: “How I visited every country in the world – without a single flight.”

Graham Hughes visited 201 countries in 4 years, and I think he spent something like $19,000. That’s $400 a month.

“There are good people all over the world,” he writes, “people who will go out of their way to help a stranger.”

Hey Ed – Of course, it’s possible to travel on a very tiny amount of money, that is true! I just like to give a budget of $1000 because I personally don’t want to rely on strangers all the time and constantly accept free places to stay, free meals, free transportation or other things that cost locals money.

You can definitely do Ukraine for less than $1000/month. Same with Armenia and Georgia. Azerbaijan would be trickier as prices in Baku are close to Western Europe or higher (I almost accidentally bought a pint of ice cream in the grocery store for $20 there!). Even outside of Baku, things are pricier than Georgia or Armenia.

Would also add Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan to the list.

Thanks Katie for the info!

Great list. The only thing about Asia is actually getting there. Plane tickets can be expensive and often will cost more then the month trip itself. A good reason to spend a couple of months there right =P.

Hey Gabriel – Flights do often cost the same as one month of travel over there in SE Asia but like you said, if your trip is 2 or more months, you can still make it happen for about $1000/month when all expenses are averaged out.

That`s a great article to remind people that travel it`s not all about the money. I myself am from Macedonia and I`m definitely glad that my country is on the list. Everybody is welcomed here:)

Hey Metodija – Welcome to the site and thanks for the kind invitation for readers to visit Macedonia!

Great approach Earl! As a Travel Agent is not uncommon to fit Holidays in people’s budgets, and USD1,000 sounds reasonable to me when it comes to paying for flights and accommodation in a foreign Country. I myself have gone to Indonesia with my partner, 4.5 star accommodation + flights for AUD800 each, last April.

Here in Australia, for less than AUD1,00 you could fly and stay in most of the south Pacific Islands and most of Asia, if booked in advance. A good knowledge of seasonal travel plus heaps of patience will be definitely helpful.

Hey Marcelo – The only thing is that booking a holiday is not the same as traveling for one month. There is no way you could book a holiday for one month that would cost under $1000 🙂

Great article as ever Earl. And mostly you are right. However I can’t believe you have left out China!! It is without doubt one of the easiest and best countries to get by on a cheap budget. I can get by on $500 a month here – accomodation is as cheap as there is, beer and food is the cheapest on the planet and the only real cost is sightseeing (national parks can cost a fair whack). Less than $1000 in China is easy, I spent about $90 US last week and that included some entry fees to sights, temples etc..

Also while this budget is possible in most parts of the world, it will unfortunately mean missing out on top sights…e.g. The Inca Trail in Peru (around $250 for 4 days if i remember right, and rising), hiking most mountains (I recently done Kinabalu over 2 days at a cost of around $267!) and lots of national parks charge entry prices (even Yuanyang in China now charges $20 for 2 days) and so to get them done for $1000 a month, might be tough but of course if you sleep rough and dont eat well, can be done in most countries.

Other countries for me which I’ve done on this budget are Northern Ireland, Laos, Paraguay and Uruguay. Sri Lanka sadly is just not cheap anymore – even climbing Sigiriya these days costs $30 and the hostels and hotels have gone up a lot. Of those Northern Ireland is the most commercial but still the cheapest part of the UK to go backpacking in.

Safe travels. Jonny

Hey Jonny – As mentioned in the piece, this list is of countries I’ve been to and when it comes to China, I’ve only been to Hong Kong 🙂

As for missing out on the sights, I think it’s still possible to include those. First, there almost always ways to do things cheaper and second, if the price is high, factoring that into your budget over a several month trip is still doable. As I said, the idea is that you need an average of $1000 per month when traveling and if you overspend one month in order to do something that you really want but costs a lot, the next month you simply cut back and spend less.

Great list! I don’t think I could ever be a true budget traveler, but this is a good basis for planning to know what countries can easily be so affordable. My husband and I are starting to research places to go for about 3 months this winter, so this helps. And it’s always great to show people travel isn’t as expensive as they think it is.

Hey Ali – Most people are quite surprised by how comfortable traveling on $1000 per month can be in many parts of the world! Let us know where you choose to go this winter!

[…] Countries You Can Visit For $1000 Or Less […]

I was in Croatia and Slovenia! I know better Slovenia then Croatia, but I love both countries.

Slovenia is a small country but very nice! I love the region of the lake Bled! I was in summer but I think that it should be very beautiful in winter. Piran, Koper, Liubliana, Bled.. amazing places!

In Croatia I just went to Zagreb and the north cost and I loved. The region of Pula is very nice. Rovinj is a small vilage with very charm!

Hope you enjoy your trip

Oh i forgot.. here in Thailand i spend around 600$ per month. Pretty cheap 🙂

Definitely a great deal of South America falls into the low budget category: Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia. I always find when there’s a will there’s a way. For example I stayed in my own rented house in Brazil in carnival season for US$100 per week. I cooked my own food, hung out at the beach etc = cheap. This was an unusually low price but as I said – where there’s a will there’s a way 🙂

Hey Karen – Absolutely…there are always decisions that we can make while traveling that will reduce our costs even more and renting a place for a longer-period of time in one location is certainly one of them!

how interesting!I was surprised about South Africa. I thought it would have been much more expensive…good to know! The more i read these articles and the more i want to keep on going. One of my dreams would be to cross the ocean and get to see central and Latin america. I’m currently living and working part time in Thailand, the cost of the ticket to get to is going to be massive right? would be nice to visit mexico or Peru’..

Hey Kle – The ticket will be on the higher end for such a journey but just keep looking at prices because you never know when a good fare will pop up. Also, sometimes you have to get creative. Look for cheap flights to Europe, then a cheap flight on maybe Condor Airlines or Air Berlin from there to Mexico.

Thanks for this great list! I just read about your blog and am so glad I came across it 🙂

Definitely Morocco! I lived in Rabat for two years and was able to travel a lot within the country, spend a summer in France and make a big trip to Turkey/Syria on a $1200/month salary. I had a nice apartment, ate well, splurged every now and again and still brought thousands home in savings. $1000/month would not be a problem at all! Thanks so much for your blog, Wandering Earl!

And thank you for adding Morocco to the list Brandi!

Cuba. I spent 3 months this past winter and it can easily be done on less than $1000 a month. However prices are increasing and the general feeling is that when the US embargo is lifted prices will jump. So go now if you are on a budget!

Hey Robert – I can imagine that Cuba will become quite expensive soon enough. Now is definitely the time to go.

$1000 goes a long long way for a month of stay in Palawan, the Philippines!

Thanks Dennis…Philippines is very high on my list of places I want to visit soon!

It’s possible to live in Taiwan for 1000 USD a month as well. I don’t hear much about Taiwan as a traveler destination (except from the Japanese), but it’s a beautiful country with great food and friendly people.

I lived in Taipei for 3 months from February this year.

Accommodation can be a bit more expensive than most of the other countries in Asia (for a decent room in a shared house/apartment, expect to pay around 350USD, especially if it’s a short term rental), but otherwise the cost of living is just as low as Thailand, for example. That said, it depends on what kind of lifestyle you live as well.

Hey Masa – You are right, you don’t hear much about Taiwan as a travel destination. I’ve been myself but not for a long period of time and from everything I hear from those who do make it there, it is a wonderful, reasonably priced place to visit!

We spent almost 4 weeks between Bulgaria, Serbia and Romania and 1 night in Bratislava, Slovakia and enjoyed all of them, especially Bulgaria and Romania.

I think you’ll enjoy all of those countries as we’ve heard great things about all of them.

Hey Earl – As you know, those are some of my favorite countries and of course, I’m still having a hard time leaving Romania!

Thanks Earl. Great list! Great site. Yes, I would be curious about the Philippines too…

I was just in Europe a while back and had a blast in Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania specifically. I met two men in Albania who have been living there for a while. One from America, another from the Netherlands. They only paid around 250 Euro a month for accommodation which included breakfast. I barely spent money while staying there and ate really well, saw great sites, met amazing people, and went on a great hike. I have a soft spot for Albania and wouldn’t mind staying there for a while paying 250 Euro a month. I totally agree with you, Earl. It’s not only possible to live on $1000 or less in many countries, but to live well. Thanks for the informative article.

Hey Cynthia – Absolutely and sounds like you had some excellent experiences in that part of the world. I had a great time in Albania too when I was there last summer!

Given the increase in popularity for Couchsurfing and HouseSitting, traveling for under 1k/month is possible just about anywhere. I definitely think your are spot on with the countries you listed…definitely all very friendly to budget travelers!

Hey Wade – Great point. Not only do you save money on accommodation with those sites, you have experiences that often times would not be possible if you stayed at a hostel/hotel. Not a bad combination.

Earl, what about the Philippines?

Hey Ryan – I’ve never been which is why it isn’t on the list 🙂

While I stayed in comfortable hotels, I have traveled quite a bit across Malaysia, Thailand, and Cambodia and I agree all can be done for well under $1,000/month.

I wondered what the hostels on Mosque Street in Singapore for for a night. If you eat street food you could probably do Singapore for under $1,000 also, but that might be pushing it.

Hey John – Singapore might be possible but even a dorm room can cost about $25/night and more, so it would be tight. But with couchsurfing, as many others have pointed out, it is definitely doable!

Think China could be added. But I understand why you may have omitted it. China is about as cheap or expensive as you want to make it. Outrageously expensive in some senses dirt cheap in others.

Hey Colin – Actually, the only reason I left it out is because this is a list of countries I’ve actually been to and since the only part of China I’ve visited is Hong Kong, I didn’t want to include the entire country.

What about Morocco? How much a month for Morocco?

Earl, I noticed that you missed Belize on the Central American list. Maybe you haven’t been there and that’s why, but it’s much the same as all the other countries in C.A. for the cost of living in paradise.

Most of my experience traveling throughout Mexico and Central America is driving / living with a pickup and a camper on the back. Our one year R/T (California / Costa Rica) adventure only set us back about $6,000 US dollars for two people. It was done in a twenty year old Ford pickup that cost about $2,000 (with new tires) and a camper that I bought and fixed up for about $1,800. And, when you’re done with your trip, you can sell the two for (?). I didn’t sell my pickup or camper because I couldn’t bare to part with my good friends. (A man and his truck, it’s a beautiful thing) 🙂

Hey Steve – I have been to Belize but it’s been a long time and I wasn’t able to get any feedback from anyone who has been recently. But it’s good to know that you can still travel there on a low budget as well. Your experience down in those parts must have been unreal driving that truck around!

If my week-long stay in Krakow, Poland was any indication, Poland is definitely an inexpensive place to visit! My hostel bed was $9 CDN a night (6-person dorm) and it was the cleanest one I encountered in Europe! And I still rave about the delicious meal of perogies and salads we had one day for only $3 CDN. Definitely a great inexpensive place to visit, rich with history.

Hey Brianna – That’s good to know since I plan to make it to Poland in the next month or so!

Glad to read all your recommendations, as well as in the comments. It’s great knowing there are many places to travel to so cheaply to help balance out some of the more expensive places. It also makes places I may not have thought of before to travel to more appealing.

I lived in Budapest, Hungary for about $650 a month including accommodation in the centre of the city. Food is relatively inexpensive if you avoid the tourist places when eating out. The markets are really affordable and many attractions are free or low cost.

And I agree, the surround countries: Slovakia, Romania, Serbia etc are very affordable. Slovenia is a little pricier, but definitely a lot more affordable compared to much of Western Europe.

For us it depends on how fast we are travelling. If we slow down and rent an apartment for a month or more then things are much cheaper. We are living in the little Mexican beach town of San Pancho at the moment for $550 each per month (sharing a house as a couple). As we don’t like to stay in hostels much (definitely not dorm rooms as a couple) then things get much more expensive when we move around more. It’s definitely possible in many of these countries though without watching the budget too much.

Morocco, my friend! Please put this gorgeous country on your map, you’d love it. We traveled for a week across Northern Morocco to three cities and a camel safari to the Sahara from the village of Merzouga with return tickets to Spain for 500 Euros tops. Fez is a very special city to me, cheaper than most others and walking through it’s Medina was like peeling an onion. The cultural ties are so dense! Thank you for opening up this space on budget travel – students, backpackers and such minority travel groups – will appreciate it a lot. Another topic that can be linked to his theme is this: budget travel and how the tourism in cheaper places conflict with regular travelers that splurge away.

I’m currently in Romania and can personally vouch for it. It’s a great country with amazing nature, fun and safe cities, cheap prices and plenty of English speakers. Romanian is a romance language as well, so you can at least read the street signs as well! (not as easy in Bulgaria)((Which is even cheaper by the way!))

How content are you willing to be? In Hawaii I once slept on the beach (away from where the authorities might be looking), ate cereal and peanut butter, showered in a waterfall, read some books that I’d brought along, swam in the ocean, and watched the sun go down every night. The month cost me $66.

Hey Ed – It definitely all depends on a person’s travel style and what they’re looking to get out of their trip. Ultra-budget options always exist as well as your own experience shows.

Does anyone recommend any of the following countries?

Slovakia Slovenia Croatia Bosnia & Herzegovina Serbia Montenegro Albania Macedonia Bulgaria Romania Moldova Estonia Latvia

I intend to do some budget travel myself, very soon as my 40th is coming.

Any advice is welcomed

Thank you Anthony

I’m from Slovenia and everything Earl said about my country is true 🙂 If you have some questions, just shoot!

Thanks for answering my question with a post none the less which I am sure will grow to be one of your most popular

You’re very welcome Ash and yes, definitely a great resource for travelers!

Yep, I’ll second Bulgaria and Mexico, and also throw in Colombia. I spent 2.5 years in Sofia (Bulgaria) living for well under $600 USD a month, in Colombia for about $450 a month, and here in Mexico I run on about $650 a month.

Great list! Thanks for sharing, Earl.

Thanks for adding your input Tim!

Great Post Earl. Have you considered that it is possible to live in the USA for under $1,000 per month? It’s not easy, but it’s possible. I currently live in Portland and am making it my goal to live for the next 10 months with less than $10 thousand dollars. I live in a shared house, bike around town, eat out very infrequently, etc…

I’ve lived in the USA for under $500 a month. Any things possible if you have a goal.

Hey Russell – I’d imagine that it is possible to live in the US, as you are about to demonstrate. I think for someone who is looking to travel around the US, it would be a lot harder though.

In Latvia it’s definitely easy to live for 500/600€ per month. Same in Lithuania (not mentionned in your list, but really, really cheap too!). A few years back, in my hometown in France I lived easily with 800€/month, now it’s a bit tough. I’d say 1000/1000€ per month is okay. But in Western Europe, you can live for really cheap in Southern Spain (Andalucia), or Portugal. Even in South Italy, it’s quite cheap too.

Jérémy / From France 🙂

Hey Jeremy – I hope to visit Lithuania this summer so it’s good to know that it can be done quite inexpensively. And good points about Southern Spain and Italy as well!

Morocco – definitely less then 1000€/month 😉 I spent around 400€ for 3 weeks but I mostly stayed with couchsurfers 🙂 The only negative thing is the price of transportation, I’d say I spent around half of my budget only for buses, although I did travel all around Morocco.

I believe it’s possible to stay in Portugal for a month on much less than 1000$. There’s cheap accommodation for 10€ per night (13$) in shared hostel room, right in the center of the city. Its also possible to rent a room in a shared house for 250€/month (328$) with all expenses included. Food is cheap, specially in normal restaurants (non-touristic ones). Transport is also very cheap. And the Sun is free! 😉

Hey Luisa – A few people have mentioned Portugal which is great to hear. I loved my time there but was not there for too long so I didn’t get a good enough idea of how much it would cost. Seems like quite an inexpensive destination and a great value.

I spent the month living in Koh Phangan, Thailand (My first month living abroad (and not traveling)) and it was refreshingly affordable. Even being a tourist area with higher then mainland prices, with a house and a motorbike I was well under $1,000.

Great post Earl and I agree with most of it – but as you and I know, the thing is when you budget that low, then some of the major sights just cant be done (unfortunately). The Inca Trail in Peru for one (around $250 for 4 days if i remember right), hiking most mountains (recently done Kinabalu over 2 days at a cost of $267) and a lot of national parks (for example Yuanyang in China was $20 for 2 days) and so to get them done for $1000 a month, youre pushing it, but worth a try and you’re right to remind your readers that it CAN be done (you might be eating beans on toast and drinking only water for a month though).

Where have I done for less than $1000?? 1. You forgot to include my favourite cheap country – China!! Probably the cheapest of the lot and the easiest to manage on less than $1000. I spent about $90 last week in China (7 days of backpacking…check one of my posts on Chongqing – more to come). Heading to Nanchang on Friday and will be budgeting for about $25-30 a day as Im doing a national park. Beers and food can cost $4 a day for all meals. Transport $1, unless youre moving towns in which case budget for $10. Accomodation in China? $5 a night – if youre paying more in China then you dont know how to budget!

2. Other notable countries for me which fit this budget are Vietnam, Laos, Paraguay and Uruguay. Sri Lanka I was there in February and the prices of things have simply gone up too much, it was one of the most expensive “backpacking” trips Ive done in years. It cost me $30 alone to get into Sigiriya!!

Keep encouraging the cheap travel options though. It’s really important for people to know you dont need a lot of money to travel…

Hi Earl, I’m currently living in Northeast China and living on less than 1,000 a month (of course it helps when the school you teach for pays for your apartment.) If I was a penny-pincher, I think it’d be easy to live on closer to 500 a month, but instead I live comfortably, (go out for food, take taxis, treat myself to imported goods every now and then etc.) and I still spend well under 1,000. Love your blog, I share it with fellow travelers. -Andy

Hey Andy – Thanks for that and I appreciate you spreading the world about the blog! And that’s good to know about China as well…so many people mentioned it that I might have to get there myself sometime soon.

For us the living costs not really depended much about the country where we have been They depend more on what services we use and how we live. You can always walk instead of using taxis and buses and sleep in public places like airports if accommodation is expensive.

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Road is Calling

How to Travel the World On a Budget For a Year With Only $10K For Two

If you are secretly thinking about how to travel the world on a budget and find the cheapest way to go places, this post will definitely come in handy! Really, you don’t need to have a lot of money to be able to travel. It is totally possible even if you are on a tight budget.

In fact, I want to show you how to travel the world for cheap when you have only $10K and want to spread it out for as long as possible.

I know, lately, things have been changing fast. At first the pandemic and now the Russian war in my own country influenced inflation and made prices soar.

It became more challenging and more expensive to travel. With only $10K (especially if you have this amount for the entire year), it is now a more difficult task to travel qualitatively than let’s say it was even a couple of years ago. Yet, it is still possible. And I’ll show you how.

There are a lot of tips from different people regarding how much money one should have in order to travel long-term and feel comfortable.

I have personally seen reports with such numbers as $20K and $30K per year and then I met someone who spent around $15K when traveling solo around the world.

Honestly, I don’t think that having $30K for one year of travel is something extraordinary. Even $20,000 is still enough money. If knowing how to spend it smartly, this amount can keep you going for way longer than just 12 months. And yes, even in this time when prices are up.

And now, you don’t need to stay in hostels all the time, camp, or sleep in trains or buses. Also, rice and noodles are not the only dishes you have to eat.

There are still many ways how to travel for cheap, eat delicious and healthy foods , drink coffee ,  swim in infinity pools, go to spa centers , sleep in castle hotels , and hike trails in stunning places.

Just a couple of years ago Mark and I also traveled the world with little money and managed to spend around $10K a year using all those tips and tricks that I mention below (I accumulated them over a long period of time). If you are interested to know where we went and what we did, you can read this post .

But the goal of this article is to show you that there are ways to travel cheap. To be more exact, there are still ways to travel with $10K a year. And more than that, this amount will cover expenses for two people.

So let’s talk about them below.

General Tips on How to Travel the World on a Budget

1. set a plan on where to go and how much time to spend in one place.

Knowing where to go and how much time to spend in each place will help you understand how much to budget. And once you have that budget you can stick to, you are able to relax and enjoy the process. I don’t think making a step-by-step agenda with precise activities makes much sense. 

But if you want to travel the world cheaply and not stress out on the road over things that you could have planned before, then decide for yourself which countries you’ll travel to and in what order.

Also, make an approximate plan of which cities, villages, and attractions you would like to cover and what to skip. Do some research and find out what is the cost of travel in those places. Make a plan for how to move between them. It is very important because last-minute decisions always cost more.

Flights between many countries within the same continent are usually cheap but not if you are waiting until the last day. Some types of transportation (like first-class or sleeper trains, and ferries) sell out quickly. Nice accommodation on a budget is usually also booked in advance.

Do not hope to go with the flow and book everything along the way. Better have a precise idea of where you’ll go and when especially if thinking of travelling on a budget in Europe. Also, don’t plan to visit 50 countries in 12 months. In that way, you’ll end up spending all the money on transportation and getting places instead of experiencing them, not to mention being jet-lagged and tired all the time.

From my experience, I can tell that going without a plan (even an approximate one) can cost a pretty penny later. Mark and I used to travel without an idea where to go and when, and then when trying to make a last-minute decision, prices for everything were so much higher that we had to overpay.

RELATED POST: QUITTING MY JOB TO TRAVEL THE WORLD. IS IT SMART ENOUGH?

2. Do Not Plan Travel More Than 2 Months in Advance

One of my favorite ways to travel cheap is not to plan a trip more than 2 months in advance, often even one month in advance. And the reason for that is that travel planning with too much time ahead of you often means higher prices.

Many airlines, hotels, and tour companies offer discounted prices to fill up their remaining inventory when the date of travel is close. By booking your travel arrangements closer to your departure day, you may be able to find some great deals that weren’t available when you first started planning.

In my experience, the best way to find cheap airline tickets for long distances is within the 3-6 weeks range. So if you want to fly somewhere in 2 months, it is better to start monitoring prices but not buying tickets just yet. Wait and see how better deals are going to pop up as some time passes and you have 4-5 weeks left before the travel date.

Although do not wait for too long as with less than 2 weeks time left before your departure, airfare prices are going to increase again.  

The same is with accommodation. Oftentimes owners of many boutique and small heritage hotels decrease prices of rentals during the off-season even if there are still a few weeks of time left before travel.

We booked many trips at the last minute, including a recent trip to Cordoba while moving from Malaga to Tenerife island. And by the way, the trip to Tenerife with flights and accommodation, which we planned 2 weeks before departure, turned out to be quite cheaper than if we had stayed in Malaga during the same duration.

3. Get a Travel Credit Card Before You Leave

If you want to travel smart and cheap, get a travel credit card, preferably one with cash rewards. It will save you money on every purchase.

With a travel card, you don’t need to pay a foreign transaction fee. Also, what we found important is that when you pay in a foreign country with a credit card, the exchange rate set by the bank is always higher than the rate in exchange kiosks. So, in this way, you will be saving money too.

But besides savings, you can earn points on all transactions and later deposit them into the account as cash value and apply towards travel.

More and more places around the world accept credit cards, even small market stalls, so you won’t need to withdraw money on every occasion.

As for the card to choose, see what banks in your country offer. If you are from the US, from my experience I can recommend the Bank of America travel rewards card , Chase Sapphire Preferred , and Capital One Venture (although the last two have a yearly fee).

4. Choose to Travel Slowly to Be Able to Save

By traveling slowly I mean choosing one city in a new country where you’ll base for at least a month. Better if you make a base there for a few months. Especially in this time, with the corona, it provides more security to have a long-term base. In this case, you’ll be able to rent accommodation on a monthly basis, cook at home, get to know how locals live, and travel within that region. All of it will cost you way less than constant travels from one place to another. 

Traveling full-time can get really exhausting and also it takes more resources. Traveling slowly helps to remain positive and energetic . 

If you look at budget-friendly destinations, you’ll see that renting a nice but pretty basic room costs between $10-$15 a night. If you multiply by 30 days, it will add up to $300 minimum. But honestly, you cannot count on that. In one destination it may cost $10 while in other $20.

On the contrary, in the same destination, the entire apartment costs between $250-$350 a month. It includes a kitchen that in turn helps to cook at home from time to time and save on food.

With slow travel, you do not necessarily see less. You actually get to experience more, just in one country.

We have been living in slow travel for almost 4 years now. During this time we were based in many cities and traveled qualitatively around many countries. If you are curious to learn what are those places (that I believe are fantastic destinations for budget travelers to live while traveling slowly), check my other posts:

• 15 Countries to Live in Europe With $1000 Per Month For Two
• Life in Istanbul, Turkey – What’s It Like? Tips For Foreigners & Digital Nomads
• Moving to Turkey – Is Turkey a Good Country?  
• Life in Tbilisi, Georgia – Will You Enjoy It?
• How is Life in Ukraine For a Foreigner – What to Know & Expect
• Life in Kuala Lumpur – What to Expect?
• Living in Vietnam Under $1000 For Two – Amazing Country For Budget Travelers

5. Travel There Where You Don’t Need a Visa 

Most likely, if you are reading this post, you haven’t traveled much yet. Maybe you’ve seen a few places but I bet there are many more left for you to discover. And if I have to guess, you want to go everywhere.

So, my advice to everyone who is on a shoestring budget but wants to travel the world for a year (or more) – try to start with those destinations where you don’t need to pay for a visa or where at least a visa is cheap.

Different passports have different levels of power, I get that. Still, a lot of those passports enable their holders to travel to some destinations visa-free. Check where you need to apply for a visa or where you can just obtain an ETA and calculate how much it will cost.

Visa expenses in total can end up being a few hundreds of dollars. For someone on a tight budget that’s actually a lot of money. So if you are flexible about where to travel to, start with those destinations where crossing the border is free. Or at least where the cost of a visa is cheap. 

Mark and I personally use iVisa website to check if we need visas for every country we go to. It is a very helpful resource where all information is updated regularly.

6. Plan to Travel to Prime Destinations During the Off Season

Traveling to expensive destinations during the off-season may seem counterintuitive, but it can actually be a great way to save money while still enjoying all that the destination has to offer.

During the off-season, no matter where you go, prices for flights, accommodation, and activities usually drop. But with expensive destinations that’s not the only benefit.

Oftentimes, many expensive destinations during the low season besides lower prices also offer milder weather that is more comfortable for outdoor activities. For example, in destinations like Hawaii or the Caribbean, the off-season means lower humidity and fewer storms which is an ideal time to enjoy the beaches or go hiking. 

In southern Spain like Andalusia for example, off-season (meaning winter) is a perfect time to escape cold and enjoy winter sun on a budget.

One of the reasons how Mark and I managed to travel all over Spain and even live in one of the northern towns and then live in Malaga was because we mainly traveled there in winter and found cheap accommodation for a long term while it was still cheap. 

7. Choose to Travel to Cheap Countries 

I am sure you could somehow figure that this one was going to make the list. If you want to make sure your saved money will last you longer, choose to travel to cheaper destinations . Each continent has its own cheap countries. And Southeast Asia is not the only place. 

In North America, for instance, Mexico is pretty cheap. Look into Campeche, Merida, Guanajuato, Puerto Escondida, Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara if you want to save money. Although it is also very possible to travel to Cancun on a budget together with Tulum and Playa del Carmen.

In Europe, look into the Balkans (all countries in this region are very cheap,) Eastern Europe, and some parts of Spain . We lived in Montenegro and spent the same amount of money there as we did in Bali . Bosnia and Herzegovina was even cheaper.

Ukraine, my home country, is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe for winter and for summer where to live comfortably but with very little money. Let’s just wait for the war to end and you can add Ukraine again to the places where to travel on the cheap. Even Istanbul in Turkey , where we used to live and return often, offers a lot of options for budget travelers. 

With Southeast Asia, you need to know where to go because some places can be more pricey than others. Singapore is obviously the most expensive, Taiwan is not that cheap and some parts of Malaysia, the Philippines, Bali can also surprise with prices. 

If you haven’t opened my post about the cheapest countries to live in Europe , do it now. I included all the countries where you can live with €1000 per month. Even if there is no plan to live in any of them, it’ll give you an idea of how cheap/expensive they are for travel.

8. Pack Everything You Need Before You Leave

Chances are you won’t be taking a lot of stuff when leaving to travel. Still, pack your bags wisely.

While you are still working and having an income stream, buy everything you may need for your voyage ahead of time. Glasses, sunblocks, a bathing suit, sandals, sneakers, towels, medicine, and even a hair muss if you need one. Do not plan to buy those necessities later. In a new country, you may not know right away where the best places to shop are or the same items can be more expensive.

Plus additionally, if you don’t pack all you need, it will mean you’ll buy it ina new destination in this way adding more weight to your bags. And extra luggage nowadays is quite expensive.

Many airlines charge additional fees for checked luggage or overweight bags. By packing everything you need in a carry-on bag, you can avoid these fees and save money.

However, it is not really about money only. Running around in a new place may steal your time.

9. Change Your Habits to Save More Money 

If you want to travel the world on a budget, you need to make some changes to your lifestyle.

We all have our own habits and small things that make us happy. For me, some of those things I love are a bowl of smoothie almost every single day, something sweet, and jogging. For Mark, that’s always a cup of coffee, workout, and beer. When we were living in America, we paid for all those things around $200 each month.

When we started to travel, we realized that we couldn’t have smoothies all the time (this type of food is pretty expensive everywhere in cafes), buy coffee on a daily basis (which our bodies don’t need anyway) and we couldn’t pay for a gym. So we made a lot of changes. No, we didn’t quit them but we changed the routine.

Instead of paying for a gym, we always follow home workouts, jog, and exercise outside when the weather is warm. For example, now while living in Istanbul , we are renting an apartment near the park and seaside. The only time we paid for a gym was during our long stay in Ukraine .

For smoothies and coffee, we decided to purchase a portable coffee maker and a compact travel blender that we pack in our suitcases for many trips. 

While I will never try to tell anyone to stop exercising and eating healthy, I will definitely encourage you to realize where you are overspending. Most likely you are spending more on long-held habits. Are you a smoker? Drinker? Coffee, fast food, soda addict? All of this will be taking a good chunk of money out of your monthly budget.

If you want to learn cheap ways to travel, cut your spending, and quit bad habits because they may be costing you more than anything else. 

10. Go Only There, Where Flights Are Cheap

Another thing that will help to travel the world for a year on a budget is to plan to go to those destinations where flights are cheap. I like to use an ‘Explore’ option with google to see which connections the city of interest has and which of them are the cheapest. 

There are a lot of countries that interest me and where I want to go. But when picking the next base for us with Mark, I always search for tickets first. The cheapest and most convenient flight always wins.

Before planning your itinerary, first of all, learn how to find cheap deals . Make a list of countries you want to visit and then start looking at which country is cheaper to fly to. Sometimes distance doesn’t matter. You may find a better deal to fly from the U.S. to Europe than to Costa Rica or even Mexico.

A few years ago, while being in Ukraine , we found the cheapest ticket to Chiang Mai and this is why we ended up there. But on the way, we had a fantastic 24 hours long layover in Doha , Qatar which let us visit a new country for cheap.

Play with different airfare search sites (we always compare on Expedia and Google Flights ), use some luxury travel hacks, make sure to check prices from Tuesday to Thursday (especially at night), look for connecting flights, and compare prices.

I recommend buying tickets for at least the first two months of your travels. The rest you can buy along the way.

Practical Tips on How to Travel the World for Cheap

11. find complimentary accommodation.

Complimentary accommodation does not always come as free. Sometimes you may need to do some work in exchange but it is worth it so much.

Getting this type of accommodation is good if you plan to travel to prime destinations such as Western Europe, Scandinavia , Australia, New Zealand, United States , Canada, etc.

With these countries, you can always house-sit , volunteer, camp for free or little money, couchsurf , or work in exchange for food and a place to sleep. Most of these opportunities, especially international housesitting , will cover your room and board and sometimes provide a car.

Before Mark and I left America we spent 3 months traveling from the West Coast of the U.S. through Vancouver and then to Banff National Park and then all the way to Vermont, staying in free accommodation. This is how we ended up paying less than $1500 for all that time. I talk more about what we did and where we stayed in this post on work in exchange for accommodation and food . Give it a read.

But briefly, here are resources to use to find complimentary accommodation:

• Housesitting – this website has the biggest number of hosts
• Couchsurfing – this is the largest resource with free accommodation 
• WWOOF & Peace Corps – a big number of community projects while staying with local hosts or in volunteer housing
• HomeExchange or Love Home Swap – the most popular websites for swapping your home with someone else’s in another part of the world
• BeWelcome – a non-profit hospitality exchange platform that connects travelers with local hosts who are willing to offer free accommodation
• Warm Showers – a platform that connects cyclists (if you travel by bike) with hosts who offer free accommodation, shower facilities, and sometimes meals
• University Living – great resource for summer travel for students that allows you to find a room for rent in university dorms around the world at a reduced rate. This can be a great option if you’re traveling on a budget and don’t mind sharing a bathroom or living space with other travelers

12. Or Choose to Stay With Locals

Another option for cheap accommodation is to stay with locals. Besides the money, it also provides an excellent opportunity to immerse in a new culture, get to know how people in that country live and experience something different than a hostel or even Airbnb.

Our favorite websites for short and long-term stays with locals are:

– Homestay – rent a room in someone’s home and let the host help you learn about local life 

– Servas – a hospitality exchange network, similar to Couchsurfing but with a mandatory yearly fee and stricter sign-up. It helps to connect travelers with local hosts who are willing to provide free accommodation in exchange for cultural exchange and friendship.

– HelpX – one of my favorite platforms that connects B&Bs, farms, hostels, homeowners with volunteers. With the help of this site, you can do all types of jobs in exchange for free housing and food. From volunteering in a hostel to helping to look after a luxury home, this site has it all!

– Agoda – this website has quite a few pretty awesome guest houses in Asia. 

– Trustroots – another website similar to Couchsurfing. But here, you are able to find a host based on the same interests as you have. 

13. Also… Stay in Monasteries 

We accidentally learned about this option on our road trip from Bucharest to Brasov . And we almost stayed overnight in a beautiful Caraiman Monastery , perched on a hill overlooking the mountains.

While walking on its beautiful grounds, we noticed a message on a door saying that there were rooms available for rent. The price per night was less than €10.

Later, I decided to do some research and found out quite a few monasteries around the world where both male and female travelers can stay. That’s an amazing opportunity to save money on accommodation and experience something truly unique!

For a long time, religious institutions have been receiving pilgrims. And this opportunity stayed with us to this day. However, don’t expect much. Usually, monasteries offer overnight stays with very ascetic conditions – only a bed, a table, and very simple dinners. You may also need to visit a religious service.

But, stays are very quiet and peaceful and you need to be in bed by a certain time. So, it won’t work to get there late at night from the nearest bar.

Some monasteries have a fixed rate per night, like hotels, but others will be grateful for a symbolic charity contribution. To find out more details, see this article . 

To find a monastery or temple for the night, check these sites:

– Monasterystays – monastery stays in Italy, Austria, and Slovenia

– Goodnightandgodbless – mainly monastery and church stays in Europe 

– Templestays – stays in Korea 

14. Look for New Apartments on Airbnb

Honestly, I am not a big fan of Airbnb anymore. I used to be in the past when it has just come to the market and was relatively new to everyone. But after a while, after traveling for a bit and staying in various Airbnbs on three continents Mark and I noticed how much Airbnb changed for the worse. Lately, we started to use VRBO in those destinations where it is available.

Through Airbnb, many times we paid a lot of money for a place that was dirty and not the same as in pictures, some owners didn’t seem to try hard to provide the best service, sometimes Airbnb team didn’t care, other times we had issues with the apartment and nothing was done to fix it. Overall, we started to notice one pattern – prices for apartments are constantly unreasonably increasing but the level of service and quality gradually goes down.

Another thing that caught our eye is the fact that many Airbnbs are owned by real estate agencies, not locals as Airbnb promotes. And in turn, it creates a totally different experience.  

So, our trust got undermined.  Still, I recommend this concept in a few cases. One of them is when you travel long-term and need an apartment for a minimum of 28 days. To save money, when we book a flat for that much time (or more) we always go with new apartments only . 

The reason for that is an additional discount from Airbnb. Usually, when the owner signs up and is willing to rent out his home, Airbnb always suggests giving a discount to the first 3 people who book his property. Besides a regular long-stay discount, they are supposed to provide an extra one. Many times this discount is between 30% and 50%. 

If you look at some destinations, you will be surprised to find some amazing deals. For instance, when we were recently looking for homes in Norway , the average price was around $2000-$3000 per month but a new apartment that recently popped up on Airbnb cost around $800 in a good location in the Tromso area.

So if you are on a very tight budget but want to travel the world for cheap, always look for new airbnbs and book one as soon as you like it.

15. Look For Farm Stays 

Would you like another hack on how to travel the world on a low budget? Then choose to live on a farm.

No, I am not talking about WWOOFing or workaway .

I mean a farm stay without a need to work. There are quite a few farms in some countries that offer accommodation. You can stay on a farm you like, learn how it works (for example, see how the cow is milked), and enjoy outdoor activities.

The conditions of such a stay vary. It can be an ordinary tent or a luxuriously furnished apartment. Of course, the luxury cottage for a budget traveler will cost a lot. But, there are also cheaper options.

On average though, a modestly furnished room with amenities on a farm will cost around the same as a budget hotel in the same country.

You can find farm stays to save money on the following sites:

– Farmstay – farm stays in England, Scotland, and Ireland 

– Downunderfarmstays – farms in Australia 

– Traveletti – farms in Hungary, Ukraine, Poland, Greece, Portugal, France, Spain, and Italy to help you travel Europe on a budget. Their service is unavailable at this time due to covid but keep it in mind for the future. 

– Farmstayus – farm stays for budget travel in the USA 

– Farmstaycampingaustralia – stays in Australia

16. Or Look For a Home On Spot in a New Country

If you plan to stay in one place for as minimum as a month and haven’t found anything decent and affordable on Airbnb yet, do not panic. I recommend booking accommodation for the first 3-4 nights and once you get to your destination, start looking around among locals. Or, join local Facebook groups.

We always follow this strategy and always have success in finding something. This is how we found lovely and rather cheap apartments in Vietnam,  in Thailand, and in Bali . In Montenegro and Turkey, we found beautiful flats  through the Facebook group.

So do not worry if the choice of flats online is not ample. In many countries, you’ll find it quickly enough.

17. Rent a Car If Traveling in Europe

Yes, exactly, if you are wondering how to travel in Europe on a low budget, rent a car. It is a smart move that is going to help you save money and see more. And I’ll explain how. 

If you start searching for deals and try to book in advance, you can rent a car for as little as $20-$25 per week (sometimes per month!) There are endless offers from various rental companies that offer fantastic deals in different parts of the European continent.

We rented a car in Valencia for $28 for 10 days in late November, in Bucharest (Romania) for $25 for the entire month (which we canceled due to a change of plans,) and later we paid $85 per month, $45 per week in Sarajevo , $30 for 2 weeks in Milan and more.

Renting a car in Tbilisi and Montenegro was way more expensive but for the most part, renting a car in Europe was pretty cheap. Recently we rented a car in Turkey for as little as $8 per day.

If traveling solo , hiring a car may actually cost you more but for two people it is a perfect opportunity to save money on transportation. Buses and trains are not that cheap as companies try to promote and you may end up spending more for two people on one round trip between cities than on a car rental and gas for the entire week (which also allows you to be flexible.)

With this strategy though, you have to visit Europe during the offseason and also target to visit cheaper destinations. During the high tourist season, prices are so high, that you will end up spending much, much more.

18. Eat/Drink/Shop Smartly

Food costs always come second after accommodation costs and can take a lot out of your budget. To be able to travel the world not spending much, try to cook at home more, especially if you are traveling in Western World countries.

Eating out in Southeast Asia , surprisingly, is cheaper than when you cook at home, but only if you choose street food. Trips to restaurants and cafes add up and can cost a fortune. South America and Eastern Europe are very affordable in this sense too.

We always cook when we travel. Our daily food expense until this day in the year 2024 is between $15-$20, depending on the destination. This cost always covers meat or fish products, lots of veggies, fruits, smoothies, coffee, tea, and occasional eating out and desserts. There is never a moment when we say “no” to ourselves when it comes to food, and we always eat local food.

I honestly don’t understand how some people manage to eat only rice or vegetables in order to cut costs. Doing it they lose so much. Trying local foods is part of the experience, please, spend some money on local food. Also, you need to stay healthy and watch your diet by eating healthy whole foods. There is no way for your body to be healthy if consuming rice or vegetables only.

Another note is about alcohol and coffee. You would need to cut on those to save money too.

19. Be Selective When It Comes to Attractions And Entertainment

I know, when you travel you want to have fun and do as many activities as you physically can. But don’t be in a hurry. Price for those attractions matters.

Physically you can’t do everything anyway, but choosing one activity over another does not mean you don’t get to know the country. Each destination has plenty of free or cheap things to do, so there is a lot to choose from. Avoid attractions oriented solely on tourists, even in poor countries they cost a fortune. Choose those activities that locals choose for themselves too.

For certain destinations, like Cambodia , for instance, you still want to budget money to be able to do some sightseeing. Angkor Wat entrance ticket for 3 days costs $62, but it is well worth it.

Visiting ancient Pergamon in Turkey was also worth every penny, like many other sites we went to. Yet, every country has also hundreds of activities or places that don’t cost any money. Take advantage of that and have a fabulous time! 

Traveling the world for 10 thousand dollars a year is not a difficult task to do if you carefully plan your trip. I do advise though to put aside at least an extra $$$, just in case if there is a day when you need it. If you can have more, it’s even better. Having “emergency money” always makes you feel more confident even if you don’t make use of it.

Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

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18 Comments

Oh, I love such articles! We spent way more during our yearlong honeymoon even though we still stayed within “bacpacker’s budget” – but I’m always thrilled to see how little money you actually need to see the world! 🙂 And about slow travel – yep, it’s actually the best, we realized that as well. You may “see” less, but you surely experience more!

Thanks for sharing your experience, Sandra!

Thanks so much for the helpful information. Dying for this to be over so we can get our location-independent selves out there. All the best.

So true! Hopefully this madness will be over soon! Stay safe wherever you are, Sharon!

Wow, so many tips! This is so encouraging because the financial aspect is probably what keeps most of us from traveling the world.

Such a great inspirational post! We are actually on our job-free year and were travelling around quite a lot. Since we´re stuck back home but still wish to continue our trips once the borders reopen this tips will come in very useful! We´ll have to definitely cut down our budget, happy to see it is actually possible 🙂

I am glad to hear Katja you find this post helpful!

Thank you for sharing such amazing tips with us, as I am about to visit Iceland soon so these tips will be sure of great help to me as well to all others who would be traveling along with me as I am sharing this amazing post with them as well.

Some of the tips are really technical and makes good sense to count these things before any trip plan like credit cards, deals info and especially visa free destinations. Both of them sounds good. However nice tips to keep in mind.Thank you!

I am glad to hear, Majid, you found them helpful!

I’m thrilled to have stumbled upon such an informative and interesting article. I am in the midst of what some might call a spontaneous adventure; planning my first euro trip and I couldn’t be more nervously excited about it. I’m traveling solo, and I’m curious about how long it took you and your husband to plan your trip? Thanks again you’ve already been so helpful.

Hi Samuel, thank you for your lovely comment, I am glad to hear this post came in handy! To be honest, it didn’t take a lot of time for us to plan our trip. I think it was around 4 months. We made a decision in February and then in the end of May we hit the road. Maybe the reason for that was a fact that we didn’t really own much. It was easy to let things go and leave.

The most time consuming thing was to give my car back to the bank. Mark sold his car quickly but my car depreciated a lot, so I decided to give it back to the bank. And that took around two weeks of my time. Other than that, everything else was pretty easy, probably because we were not tied to one place in a long-term.

This is a wonderful guide! Thanks for sharing all the resources and great tips for budget travelling. At 15, I think you confused Bratislava with Bucharest, as you wrote Romania next to it. I’m sure it was completely unintentional and that’s ok. I’m Romanian and it caught my eye.

Omg, I really did! Thank you for bringing it to my attention, Iulia, I don’t know what I have been thinking about 🙂

I’ve always liked traveling, the idea of seeing the world fascinated me, but I’ve never been able to make a very long trip, it’s always a few days never more q 1 week, but with these methods I’ll be able to enjoy my travels much more and go further away thank you so much.

My pleasure and I am very glad to hear you found this post helpful!

Loved your article. Nicely done and written. This post will be very helpful to your readers

It’s true that the biggest expense is actual traveling, by staying longer in location and getting familiar with surrounding will save you a lot of money (and time) 🙂

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How to Travel the World for Under $1000 a Month

Have you ever wanted to travel the world? For most people addicted to success nowadays, travelling is something they absolutely have to do. It provides of combination of new experiences and opportunities that you’re just unable to get from your hometown.

The only thing that normally holds people back from going to their dream destinations and having the time of their lives, is the cost of doing so. If you’re not careful and you don’t take advantage of certain things, the costs of travelling can easily rack up.

The reason behind writing this article, is because like many of you reading, I’m also now travelling the world. I’ve also set a budget for myself to make sure I don’t end up running short of cash and still get to see all the amazing places I want to.

Below I have listed 9 tips I’ve been using, that’ll also hopefully help you to travel the world for under $1000 a month :

1 . use airbnb for a place to stay.

Airbnb has been a godsend. The reason why Airbnb is so popular among travellers, is because it allows you to learn more about the owner of a particular place, and also easily compare tonnes of differentiating room types.

This means you can look at things like couch surfing, hostels, hotels, apartments, houses, villas, you name it. Everything’s listed, and the interface is so simple that it’s perfect for travellers to quickly pick up their phone and reserve somewhere.

If you’re travelling and looking for somewhere to crash, check Airbnb first. You’re able to directly contact owners with any questions you have.

“Traveling is never a matter of money but of courage.” – Paulo Coelho

2 . Save money using google flight comparison

Google now has a handy flight tool that allows you to compare airfares from a wide number of airlines. Simply put in your point A and point B, along with the dates you plan on going, and it’ll bring up a calendar with all the lowest prices for days within a close proximity.

This is the perfect tool for flexible travellers, because you’re able to see which days would be the cheapest to fly out ( the prices are highlighted in green ). If you’re not entirely bothered which day you leave a particular destination, then you can just book the cheapest day.

Saving money on flights has never been easier.

3 . Become an expert cook

If there’s anything experienced travellers have learned; it’s that when you travel the world, you tend to eat out a lot more than you normally would. Which is one of the biggest issues when it comes to sticking to a budget.

So now would be the perfect time to improve your cooking skills, and stick to simple healthy food for your daily meals. This way, not only will you be saving money by not eating out, but you’ll also be eating healthier food at the same time.

4 . Try to steer clear of souvenir shops

When you’re heading to popular tourist destinations, souvenir shops are inevitable. There’s often one on every corner in areas with high levels of tourism. Of course, when you visit an unusual place you want to get something to remember the trip by.

The problem is that souvenirs can often be expensive, but they can also take up quite a bit of space. And if the extra cost wasn’t a big enough problem, the fact that it adds to the weight of your backpack is definitely another.

When you’re travelling the world on a budget, try to stay clear of the souvenir shops as much as possible.

5 . Keep your eyes open for deals

When I first flew to Australia last year, I realized just how expensive things can get if you’re not on the lookout for deals.

When we were in Byron Bay, I got talking to a couple in the hostel we were staying at. It turned out they worked for a bar called Cheeky Monkey’s down the road, and I got handed a flyer for an ‘all you can eat’ buffet. Only $5.

We were straight onto it! It was all real, healthy food as well. Chicken, rice, potatoes, salad, you name it. Just goes to show that if you’re constantly looking for possibilities then you can often find some great deals, as well as have the time of your life.

“I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.” – Susan Sontag

6 . Look at where the cost of living is low

If you’re really excited to travel the world, and to just get out of your local town for once, you might not care too much about which places you want to visit.

Within reason of course, but if you don’t mind too much where you go, take a look at places where the cost of living is low.

Asia’s a beautiful part of the world, and for the most part it’s incredibly inexpensive. But it’s not just Asia that’s cheap. Sean Russell, a fellow blogger and friend, has recently been living in Budapest for the past couple of months. Another area where the cost of living is dirt cheap.

Picking areas like these to travel in is perfect for anyone on a budget, as well as small online business owners who are free to travel as they please, and looking to save money at the same time.

7 . Housesit for someone

A friend of mine, Ryan Biddulph, is a full time blogger who hops from island to island without ever spending money on a place to stay. He’s been able to stay in apartments and villas in places such as Bali, Thailand, Costa Rica and Fiji, rent free for months at a time. How come?

Ryan’s an experienced house sitter. So whenever anyone’s travelling and they have pets at home who need taking care of, or just want someone to be there for security reasons, a house sitter can live there for free during this time, as long as they take care of certain things for the owner.

This is how Ryan’s managed to score rent free villas in beachside locations! If you’re interested in housesitting for someone, you can begin by checking out of the best housesitting sites on the web and go from there.

8 . Find a travel buddy

For the past couple months I’ve been using an app called ‘Travel Buddies’. There’s a public wall where people can post their plans, and surprisingly a huge database of users with fantastic travel plans.

If you’re interested in travelling with someone else and being able to split the cost. For example, travel costs, hotel/apartments, using an app like this to find a travel buddy could be perfect for you.

You’d be surprised by how many people on these apps are actually heading to the same destination you are. And even if you’re not looking to split costs with people, you can still find some great people to meet up with.

9 . Be organized

After everything else, simple organization is the key to not spending any more than you have to.

Annoying expenses can easily occur when you’re unorganized, through last minute bookings, not printing out vital information, getting scammed, fined and so on. So be prepared, and think twice before doing something careless.

“To travel is to awaken.” – Lily Tsay

That concludes this list of tips on how to travel the world for under $1000 a month. These are all really great tips that anyone can use when travelling to save themselves some money.

If you’re on a low budget then using these tips can definitely make a difference.

Do you have any other tips on travelling the world for under $1000 a month?

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How to Travel Anywhere in the World for $1,000

Wouldn’t it be great to travel anywhere in the world for $1,000 or less? And I don’t mean just the cost of getting there. I mean your entire vacation from the time you step out your door to the time you get back. How great would it be to take a one- or two-week trip anywhere for that?

Decades upon decades of marketing by expensive hotels, cruises, and resorts has left us with the cultural notion that travel is expensive . Despite all the blogs, apps, websites, and Instagram accounts out there, too many people still don’t believe that travel can be cheap.

I get that. We’ve been conditioned by big brands and companies for ages to believe this repeated message, and it takes awhile to shed that belief.

But we’re currently in a golden age of travel, thanks to cheap flights , points and miles as well as the sharing economy . We are seeing a revolution in travel that is allowing people to bypass the traditional travel gatekeepers of old — the ones who kept prices high — and travel frugally without sacrificing comfort.

It’s no longer a stark choice between cheap backpacker hostels and fancy resorts.

In fact, it’s actually really easy to travel well on a budget these days.

Today, I want to introduce the concept of the $1K trip. A thousand dollars can get you far — no matter where you want to go.

While there are many ways to travel cheaply (like using points and miles or extreme budgeting), this concept is about something more middle-of-the-road. It’s not about going away with no money or traveling on $10 or $20 a day. It’s for those of us in the middle, who have day-to-day jobs and want to travel more but always feel like we lack the resources to do so.

A thousand dollars is a lot of money, but it’s not an impossible amount of money for most of us. It’s saving $2.74 per day for a year. Most of us can save $2.74 a day.

So how do you begin?

First, flip the script . I know I’ve said this before, but if you wake up today and tell yourself, “I can’t travel because of X,” you’ll never look for ways to start traveling. You will only see roadblocks: bills, flight costs, car payments, other obligations, or whatever your “But…” is. I’m not trying to be patronizing — and I definitely recognize not everyone has the means or desire to travel — but you have to ask yourself in earnest, “How do I make travel a reality?”

You need to wake up tomorrow and say, “Yes, I can travel, too — and I am going to make it happen!”

Once you start believing it’s possible, you start looking for ways to make it possible . I’m not talking about that BS from The Secret , where you manifest a winning lottery ticket. I’m talking about thinking of the practical steps you can take from day one that will bring you closer to your travel goals.

Look at your day-to-day spending and the spending choices you make.

How much would you save if you bought a Brita filter instead of a daily bottle of water? Or gave up Starbucks, cooked more of your own food, and drank less alcohol? What if you gave up cable? Downgraded your phone plan? Walked to work? Sold your unneeded stuff on eBay?

Even if it takes you a year to save, it’s better to start today than tomorrow.

I always look at expenses and go, “I can have these new jeans or another fancy dinner — or I could have another week on the road.” I have friends who complain about not being able to travel then go buy $300 sunglasses. Not everyone can save a ton of money or even has the means to travel all the time, but with enough time and dedication, the majority of us can get somewhere. When I worked with Dianne during our case study program , she was a big casual spender but prioritizing travel in her mind helped her dramatically increase her savings.

Second, it’s important to remember that traveling on a limited budget requires planning.

For example, a few years ago I took a trip to London for $700 . I knew I had ten days, didn’t care where I slept, and was content with drinking only a little, taking public transportation, and sticking to the free attractions. I only cared about eating and having fun with friends. Everything else was secondary. Knowing myself allowed me to make the most of my limited funds — and figure out how much I needed in the first place. I could plan the exact amount I needed to save because I had a rough idea of how much I would spend.

Break your trip down into small manageable goals. Don’t think about the 1,000 steps it takes to get to where you want to go. Think about the step right in front of you. What is ONE thing you can do today to get closer to your trip? What about the ONE thing you can do tomorrow?

Once a trip is broken down into smaller steps it becomes a lot more doable .

I want to use two example trips — a week in French Polynesia and two weeks in Australia — to illustrate the concept of the $1K vacation. (I’m picking expensive places so no one thinks I’m trying to cop out by using cheap destinations!) The same techniques I used to go to London for $700 are the same ones that apply to the trips below.

Example 1: French Polynesia

But where there is a will, there is a way.

Flights The cornerstone of budget travel is collecting points and miles. Reducing the cost of a flight to zero is the best way to reduce the cost of your trip. And, for any expensive destination, you will definitely need to use them. With flights running $1,600-1,950, French Polynesia under $1K is impossible without using miles to cover your expenses.

( Note : I won’t go into much detail in this post on how to get airline miles for your flight because that’s a whole other long post, which can be found here or here or here . I talk a lot about points and miles on this website, and while the idea can be intimidating, it’s quite easy to do in relatively few months — even if you don’t fly a lot! For the purpose of this article, I’m going to assume you have or know how to get miles .)

To get to French Polynesia from the US, you can fly one of two airlines: Air France or Air Tahiti Nui (both have direct flights).

The only downside to using miles: award availability isn’t abundant on these flights. The above numbers are for “saver” awards (award tickets that need fewer miles) but sometimes only regular award tickets with higher mileage requirements are available, so you’ll need to keep that in mind.

Accommodation Hotel award redemptions are often expensive in French Polynesia because the resorts are so luxurious. Therefore, I’d suggest lowering your overall accommodation costs by mixing up your stay with hotels, Airbnbs , or B&Bs. After all, you’re not going to French Polynesia without at least spending a night or two at a fancy resort, so we have to include at least a few nights there! Here are the typical award prices (you earn these points the same way you do as airline miles):

After a couple of nights redeeming hotel points for a fancy bungalow (if you have tons of hotel points, then by all means, keep staying for free!), I would switch to an Airbnb. Airbnb private rooms cost 4,000-6,000 XPF ($40-60 USD) per night, while an entire apartment (most come with pool access) will only cost you 6,000-9,900 XPF ($60-100 USD) per night. The only thing is, the Airbnbs are pretty much all located in and around the capital, so you’re not going to get too many luxurious beachfront places.

How this would apply elsewhere: Use a mix of points, hostels, Airbnbs, Couchsurfing, or even house sitting to lower your costs. More information can be found here.

Food Food isn’t cheap in French Polynesia since most has to be expensively imported and those who visit tend to have money to burn. If you eat at the resorts and hotels, you’ll pay at least 2,500 XPF ($25) or more for a meal. At an upscale restaurant, expect to pay around 4,500 XPF ($45). A meal in a casual restaurant will cost around 2,200 XPF ($22 USD). A fast-food meal is about 1,000 XPF ($10) while a beer is around 600 XPF ($6 USD). However, by eating from the local snack bars on the road, you’ll only pay around 1,000 XPF ($10 USD) per day for food. If you plan on buying your own groceries, expect to spend at least 8,000-10,000 XPF ($80-100 USD) per week on food.

I’d avoid drinking, stick to as many local snack bars as possible, make picnic lunches, and eat out only at dinner to keep costs down.

How this would apply elsewhere: Drink less, eat local food, grocery shop, skip fancy restaurants, and avoid eating in touristy areas. More information can be found here.

Activities Not surprisingly, activities in French Polynesia are not cheap either. Diving and other single-day water activities start at 11,000 XPF ($110 USD), with a two-tank dive costing 14,900-18,900 XPF ($150-190 USD). Surfing lessons, which generally last a few hours, cost around 13,000 XPF ($130 USD). Bike rentals are available almost anywhere and will cost 1,500-2,000 XPF ($15-20 USD) for a day. Whale-watching tours will cost around 11,500 XPF ($112 USD). I’d focus on one or two activities while here.

You could save more points, drink less, and even add more money to your food budget. Point is: French Polynesia suddenly became a lot more affordable! It’s pretty easy to go to French Polynesia for $1K. By using points and miles, eating at local restaurants, staying in Airbnbs, and doing only a few activities, you can visit here without sacrificing comfort.

Example 2: Australia

Flights First, I would use points for the flight the way I would for French Polynesia. That takes care of your flight, and even though award flights are not abundant, you can still find some availability. Here is a list of airlines — and the miles needed — to fly directly to Australia:

In reality, saver award tickets for direct flights to Australia are hard to come by. They aren’t there often. You might be better off going indirectly. There are a lot of ways to get to Australia if you look at having a connection than going direct. I connected through Abu Dhabi, while a friend connected through Hong Kong, and another through Japan. I even had a friend fly via Chile once to save on miles.

Accommodation Accommodation in Australia is pricey: even hostel dorms can be as high as 30-40 AUD ($24-32 USD) per night. Luckily, once you get out of the big cities, prices drop, and there are a lot of Couchsurfing hosts in the country. If that’s not your jam and you don’t want dorms, you can find rooms on Airbnb for 44-75 AUD ($35-60 USD) per day.

To keep your accommodation costs down, I would use a mix of hostels, Couchsurfing, and Airbnb. If you’re traveling in a group, Airbnb will allow you to really lower your per person costs the most. You can find entire apartments for as low as 164 AUD ($132 USD), and if you can squeeze 3-4 people into that, your per person price is only 41 AUD ($33 USD)! If you’re alone or a couple, then I would try to Couchsurf as much as possible (plus you get a kitchen too!)

Food Food isn’t cheap in Australia, and keeping this cost down is going to be the hardest part of your trip. However, if you lower your food (and drink) expenses, you can stay under $1K. Most decent restaurant entrees cost at least 20 AUD ($16 USD). Grab-and-go places cost around 8-10 AUD ($6.50-8 USD) for sandwiches. Fast food is around 15 AUD ($12 USD) for a meal (burger, fries, soda). The best value foods are the Asian and Indian restaurants, where you can get a really filling meal for under 10 AUD ($8 USD).

The best way to reduce your costs is to cook as many meals as possible. If you do so, expect to pay 100 AUD ($80 USD) per week for groceries (pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic foodstuffs). Moreover, with drinks running 8-15 AUD ($6.50-12 USD) each, I’d avoid drinking out if possible. Buy beer at the store.

Transportation Traveling around the country is tough given the long distances. The easiest way to get around the country in such a short period of time is to fly. There are often some last-minute flight deals on Tiger Airlines and Virgin. But even regular fares are pretty good. For example, Brisbane to Cairns is only 107 AUD ($86 USD) and Melbourne to Sydney is only 67 AUD ($54 USD).

Compare that to bus fares via Greyhound:

• Brisbane – Cairns: 320-374 AUD ($258-300 USD)
• Melbourne – Sydney: 120 AUD ($96 USD)
• Sydney – Cairns Unlimited Pass (i.e., the whole eastern coast, 44 stops): 429 AUD ($345 USD)

If you had more time and could stop often along the way, the unlimited pass would be better — but you don’t have that time, so cramming that $429 USD into two weeks doesn’t make sense.

I’d also consider ridesharing via websites like Gumtree or Jayride, or hostel message boards. Lots of people rent vans and are always looking for people to split the cost of gas. You can also drive yourself. Campervan rentals start at 60 AUD ($48 USD) per day and can also double as places to sleep (thus saving more money). If you are traveling with friends, it’s smart to buy a used car or campervan (or rent a new one from one of the many rental companies) and split the cost of gas.

I’d probably take a few flights and then a few rideshares. If I were in a group or liked driving, I’d rent a van to lower the cost per person. That way you save time on the long distances and still enjoy the country from the ground too! As much as I love driving across Australia, it’s better suited when you can break up the journey when you have more time.

Activities Activities will really ruin your budget in Australia. For example, a one-day trip to the Great Barrier Reef can cost 230 AUD ($185 USD), while a two-night sailing trip around the Whitsunday Islands can cost upwards of 540 AUD ($435 USD). A three-day trip to Uluru from Alice Springs is around 480 AUD ($386 USD). Luckily, there’s a bunch of free walking tours and activities in cities, but if you’re looking for that once-in-a-lifetime adventure, you’re going to pay for it!

To lower costs, I’d do a lot of solo hiking and trips, free walking tours, and one or two big-ticket items.

Again, this is a sample budget and it takes a little more effort to watch the pennies in Australia, but it’s doable to travel there and not spend a lot of money. There are incredible free activities, cheap groceries, and ways to get around on a budget. I’m not saying it will be easy, but I am saying it’s not impossible.

When you travel like you live, you can visit anywhere. Taking an entire vacation for less than $1,000 is completely doable. Stop thinking about travel as this big, expensive thing and start thinking about it more practical terms. Think about the steps to make your trip happen. A thousand dollars isn’t nothing – and it may take a long time to save that amount – but it’s not the multiple thousands the media makes travel out to be!

“I don’t have the money to go” is a limiting belief.

When you start looking for ways to say yes, when you start breaking travel down step-by-step and look for ways to save, the world is truly your oyster.

Matt’s Addendum: After some feedback, I want to clarify something: Yes, this requires points and miles that have to be earned prior to your trip. However, since those can be earned without spending extra money, I don’t view that as an added cost since it doesn’t require to spend more money than you would to get them. Additionally, I picked two expensive destinations that require points and miles but if you were to go closer to home or to a cheaper place, the need for points would be far less. I recently saw a $450 R/T flight from the US to Thailand. At $50 a day, you could still go for 12 days, use no points, and not break the $1k barrier.  

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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5 Best Places To Travel on a $1,000 Budget

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Despite the challenges posed by inflation and other factors, travel remains a top priority for many individuals. As summer approaches, Americans are eagerly booking their dream vacations , seeking to discover new destinations and reunite with family and friends. However, the surge in demand is resulting in a rapid increase in prices, leaving airlines and hotels scrambling to keep pace.

See: Don’t Book a Vacation on This Day of the Week Check Out: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch

If you’re traveling on a budget , know that most of it will probably be eaten up by airfare, which was up 18% over last year’s fares. But that doesn’t mean you have to spend thousands to go on vacation. We reached out to travel experts for their top recommendations for cost-effective destinations. Below are a few ideas for where to travel on a budget of $1,000.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

With a budget of $1,000, you can find some great spots at Joshua Tree National Park to go glamping, said Heath Hammett, CEO of VacationRenter . You can even rent an RV for up to six guests for as little as $99 a night. “Make the most of your outing by going hiking or checking out Joshua Tree Lake,” he said. Fishing is just $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12, but guests must bring their own poles due to COVID-19 restrictions.

To save more money, Hammett suggested making campfire food. “Of course, s’mores are the all-time favorite. But grilled corn on the cob and veggie and meat skewers are a great option before dessert rolls around.” For those with more wiggle room in their budgets, visit Crossroads Café or drive along Twentynine Palms Highway to discover restaurant options.

Branson, Missouri

Branson is considered one of the premier destinations for live music. So if you’re hoping your vacation includes plenty of concerts and dancing, Branson is the place to visit. 

However, if you’re traveling with kids, they may not be as enthusiastic about seeing the hottest bluegrass bands. Fortunately, Branson is home to another one-of-a-kind attraction: Silver Dollar City. Greg Wilson, co-owner of the personal finance blog ChaChingQueen.com, recently took his family of five there on a vacation for under $1,000. “There was something to do for all ages, including our two-year-old twins,” he said. “Lodging was very affordable and only a few miles away.”  

You’re also allowed to bring your own food into the park, which can save a considerable amount. Parking is free, and there’s a free trolley that can drive you to the park’s entrance.

If you’re more interested in an international vacation, Alika Barnsley, a travel blogger at Alika in Wanderlust , recommends Bali. 

“Bali is one of the cheapest islands in the entire world,” she said. “Not only is it incredibly cheap, but it’s also a beautiful destination with plenty of things to do and see on a budget.”

Barnsley said you can find hostels that cost around $8 to $15 per night, while hotels are about $20 per night and up. Eating street food will run you $2 to $4 per meal, and restaurants aren’t much more.Transportation options are also cost-effective. You can hire a scooter to get around Bali for around $3 to $8 per day, or you can get GoJek (like Uber) for around $2 to $10 per ride, depending on the distance. “To see waterfalls, rice terraces and beaches, there are entry fees,” she noted. “But they are small — usually only $1 to $5.”

For those craving a somewhat European feeling with Latin American flair, Carlos Grider, of the travel site A Brother Abroad , said Argentina is a perfect destination. “The economy is still recovering from the effects of the pandemic, leaving insanely cheap prices,” he said. “But the country, the people and all its beauty are just as amazing as before.”  

One thousand dollars can go very far in Argentina right now, according to Grider. Ten days is typical, though you can stretch that budget a month if you’re frugal. He explained that in Buenos Aires, a good hotel will cost $30 per night, while a hostel will run closer to $15. Meals cost around $10, and a bus ticket between Buenos Aires and Mendoza will cost roughly $30.  

He added that the capital has a well-connected metro system, allowing you to explore for 25 cents per ride. There are also inexpensive long-haul and “sleeper” buses that allow you to travel to the highlights of Iguazu, Mendoza, San Carlos de Bariloche and El Chalten on the edge of Los Glaciares National Park. “Throughout the rest of the country, prices are roughly 25% to 50% cheaper than in Buenos Aires, meaning as travelers adventure, their money will go even further.”

Take Our Poll: Are You Concerned About the Safety of Your Money in Your Bank Accounts? See: Why Nobody Is Buying Vacation Homes Anymore

Try a Cruise

If all-you-can-eat buffets, nightly entertainment and the gentle rocking of the ocean are your thing, a cruise can be an excellent way to travel internationally for less. “Because of the limited time they have left to fill cabins for the summer season, pricing is quite competitive,” says Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic . “Add to that the savings you get from not having to fly to your final destination, and cruising is an incredibly budget-friendly option for travelers this summer.”

In the Caribbean, for example, McDaniel said the average fare for a five-night cruise starts at less than $500 per person for peak July cruises.

“While those are entry prices and you’ll still have add-on costs to pay like taxes and gratuities, they do include things like lodging, meals and entertainment,” she explained. “If you can snag a deal that includes things like complimentary drinks or onboard credit, you’ll be able to save even more.”

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Laura Beck contributed to the reporting of this article.

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by  Annette Fortner

October 21, 2019

You’re probably guilty of this. You watch a YouTube video, or read a blog from a popular travel blogger and think to yourself, “I wish I could afford to travel like that.”

Don’t worry, friend, you’re not alone! Before my first trip through Europe in 2015, I was just like you. I would spend hours daydreaming about travel, hoping that one day I would be able to gather enough nickels and buy myself a plane ticket.

But what if I told you that you didn’t have to wait or gather pennies? That you could actually travel the world for under $1000 a month!

Well, friend, that isn’t a tease, it’s a reality. My husband and I have been traveling full-time since June of 2018 and have sustained this travel lifestyle on a travel budget well below $1000 a month per person. This wasn’t done with any special hat tricks, or an obscene amount of travel hacking, either. Travel doesn’t have to be expensive, and once you harness the skills of budget travel, it can be sustained long-term!

Related:  Travel Full-Time on a Budget: The Complete Guide

To Travel for Under $1000 a Month, You Need to Subsidize Costs

An easy way to budget travel is by subsidizing your travel costs such as accommodations, transportation, and food. Before the age of the internet, this was a little bit more complicated to do.

However, with so many facebook groups, apps, programs, and cultural exchanges available to us with just a quick google search, you can seriously cut down on costs.

Related:  How to Travel FOR FREE: The Complete Guide

Here are a few of those programs that will let you travel for under $1000:

WWOOF stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms. It’s an international program that sets you up with work on organic farms in exchange for free food and accommodations. WWOOFing is an amazing opportunity that gets you absorbed by local culture, lets you live with a local family, and gain some really useful agricultural skills along the way.

If you’re okay with occasionally getting a little grungy, and learning some unexpected skills you can work and play in countries all over! There are over 120 different countries to choose from, so no matter where you want to go, you are covered.

Work Away is an incredible program that promotes volunteering, cultural exchanges, farmwork opportunities, and even language learning opportunities all over the world. With almost 40,000 hosts in over 170 countries, you are bound to find a program that suits you! The hosts of the program cover your accommodation costs and all meals, and even something tour you through the area. This is great because it allows you to live in countries like a true local!

My friend, Gurlana, did work away in Lithuania where she was literally told, “your job is to love my llamas” and so that’s what she did! She would wake up every morning, walk the llamas, feed them, hug them, and just hang out with them all day! She said it was one of the most rewarding things she’s ever done in her life! Now, she’s volunteering on tour boats that go through Lan Ha Bay, Vietnam one of the most beautiful archipelagos in the world. All for free!

Related:  10 Best Location Independent Jobs That Let You Travel Full-Time

House Sitting

Housesitting is a great way to travel for under $1000 a month because it lets you find accommodation worldwide for free! Most housesits involve caring for a pet and doing a little bit of housekeeping. In exchange for that small effort, you can end up in some beautiful homes all over the world!

Housesitting is an especially great option for those of you who love animals! The animals you care for can range from your standard cats and dogs to more exotic pets like snakes, horses, and sometimes even spiders. If that worries you, it’s okay! You can totally scout out your housesits, read reviews about hosts, and designate your boundaries all before you commit.

Imagine how awesome it would be, though, to snuggle a cute pup while in a city you’re excited to explore. Added bonus, you don’t have to pay a dime!

Click here to get your free account with Trusted Housesitters and start housesitting!

CouchSurfing

I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t tell you about  CouchSurfing . Here’s the concept: You connect with people all around the world who are willing to host travelers in their homes. Sometimes they have an extra bedroom, other times it’s a space on the floor. No matter what the accommodations look like, most of the people of CouchSurfing are really looking for friendship and you get a place to stay as a bonus!

CouchSurfing hosts hangouts in cities around the world where you can meet other CouchSurfers and just get to know each other! This is great not only for finding people who can host you, but all of those Couchsurfers can also write you a “reference” on the website confirming that you’re not a creep. And that, my friends, makes it infinitely easier to get couches to sleep on.

Although the idea of staying at random stranger’s homes may sound unsafe, it’s not as bad as you’d think! CouchSurfing is less about the room (or sometimes floor) you’re staying on, and more about the learning and hanging out with a real local! It’s not just an opportunity for free accommodation while traveling, but also a place to make life-long friendships!

[Before you dive into Couchsurfing, learn  how to be a good Couchsurfing guest or host! ]

Frequent Flier Miles / Credit Card Bonuses

This is one of my favorite ways to subsidize costs because it does more than save you money! Frequent flier miles let you acquire rewards and points as you spend money on the credit card. This is great because you can accrue points as you spend money on things you would usually buy anyway! You can then use these points to get free flights to countries all over the world! This is a great way to travel for under $1000 because flights and accommodations are often the largest part of your budget.

Some credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, give you perks like travel insurance, purchase protection, and my favorite, lounge access! Airport lounges around the world offer food, refreshments, alcohol, and sometimes even showers! They are a true godsend when you’ve been on a plane for 17.5 hours, and have a 6-hour layover!

Here’s How We Got FREE Flights on Qatar Airways

Playing around with travel credit cards is literally how we got our flights to Bangkok, Thailand FOR FREE! And it was on Qatar Airways!

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHg7VHSEs9E[/embedyt]

Eight months before we departed for our full-time travel adventure, I applied for the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card . This card has a $95 annual fee, but when you spend $4000 in the first 3 months it gives you 60,000 points. That is equal to $750 in travel rewards!

You’re probably thinking, “That’s awesome, Annette, but I’m reading this post because I’m broke… How do you expect me to spend $4000 in 3 months…”.

Friend, I gotcha. There are several ways around this.

• Put all of your current expenses on your credit card (car insurance, utilities, internet, phone bill, cable, EVERYTHING)
• Recruit your friends and family to use your credit card and Venmo (Cash App) you the money
• Buy everything you’re going to need for your trip with the credit card. If you don’t know what you’ll need,  here’s everything Daniel and I use to travel full-time .

Related:  What to Bring Traveling- FREE Packing List!

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2AJhbnUBH8[/embedyt]

To Travel for Under $1000 a Month, You Need to Travel Carry-On Only

You would be impressed with the amount of money you could save by just traveling carry-on only. You might not think about it while you’re still at home, but when you’re traveling full-time, you are constantly taking flights. Those airline luggage fees can range between $20 USD and up to $200 USD! If you can condense everything you need into a 55L backpack, you can save thousands of dollars of travel! And I know you can do it because Daniel and I have been traveling carry-on only since 2018! Need pointers on how we do it? Check out everything we own here !

Related:  Travel Carry-On Only: How to Never Pay for a Checked Bag Again!

To Travel for Under $1000 a Month, You Need to Pick the Right Country

It’s no secret that high-income countries can be expensive. That’s why you need to pick the right country if you want to travel for under $1000 a month.

Countries in South East Asia, Eastern Europe, and even South America let you capitalize on your country’s strong currency. To put it in perspective, My husband and I spent $1000 for a month in Thailand combined. This included flights to and from, all of our meals, accommodations, motorbike rentals for the month, and even alcohol.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zewogosNdR0[/embedyt]

Thailand, Anyone?

In Thailand, we ate when we wanted, drank what we wanted, and even stayed in private bedrooms and studio apartments. You might even say we lived like kings!

What separated our financial experience from that of our European holiday was the currency. In Thailand, nice meals at restaurants max out at $5 and you can eat delicious street food for as low as $1. For private accommodations with AC and a hot shower, we were paying a max of $15 a night. If you are traveling alone, it can be as cheap as $3 a night in a hostel! Our motorbike rental for the month was literally $5 per day for the nicest bike we could find!  As you can see, if you pick a country with a lower average income than your own you can maximize your travel budget. Related: 10 Best Places to Visit in Thailand

To Travel for Under $1000 a Month, You Need to Travel Slowly

Slow travel is great for SO many reasons, but one of them is that it’s simply cheaper.

Think about it, if what you have to work with is a two-week vacation and you’re bouncing from country to country, you’re going to spend a lot of money on transportation. When we were traveling through Europe, we made it to 10 countries in 6 weeks! This meant taking tons of flights, trains, and buses just to get around. Not to mention taxies to and from the airport. Needless to say, that trip ended up costing us over $15,000!

If you travel slowly, you’re able to get better deals on accommodations, motorbikes, and even sometimes food! For accommodations, we often show up to the country and go apartment shopping for the first couple of days. This allows us to see what places suit us, as well as negotiate the price with the locals.

Getting apartments also lets you save money by cooking at home, buying from local markets, and they are generally further away from tourist hubs. Well-known sites like  Airbnb  offer you hefty discounts on week and month rentals and so do motorbike shops!

Also, I can’t tell you how many times we’ve been abroad and overcharged on food on the first visit. After a few returns to the same street food vendor, they started charging us HALF the price! Slow travel has many benefits, and the deals you can get are definitely one of them.

But the benefits of slow travel extended further than just the budget…

Slow travel is great for keeping your budget under $1000 a month, but it goes far beyond that.

When you travel slowly, you’re able to integrate into the culture, learn the language, meet locals, and simply have a richer experience. Daniel and I have been slow traveling through South East Asia since June of 2018.

It has given us many great opportunities! We’ve learned 3 new languages that have allowed us to build strong connections with locals and new friends. We even learned how to cook authentic Thai food from a woman I lovingly call, Khunmae (“Mom” in Thai), who basically adopted us and didn’t let us pay for any meal for two weeks. We were so grateful we ended up working at her noodle shop in Bangkok just out of gratitude.

Slow travel has kept our costs down while keeping our experiences rich, fulfilling, and fun! Not to mention, slow travel has given us freedom! Because we travel slowly and on a budget, we have been able to sustain our travels indefinitely; exploring the world authentically and without a time limit.

It’s definitely not for everyone, but if you’re the type of person that likes to get an inside perspective into a country, its culture, and its people slow travel is for you!

Want to learn more about long-term budget travel and making money while traveling? Click here!

How to Travel for Under $1000 a Month Takeaways

The world is much more accessible than people believe. By using work and culture exchange programs, taking advantage of credit card rewards, picking the right countries, traveling carry-on only, and slow traveling, it’s easy to travel for under $1000 a month.

You’ll even be able to travel for less than what you spend living back home.

Except instead of using all of your money to buy stuff that fills your house, you’ll be using it to fund memories that will last you a lifetime!

Did you enjoy this post? Share the love with your friends by pinning your favorite image below!

Author Bio: Annette is a YouTuber, blogger, and motivational speaker that teaches others how to quit their 9-5 and make money traveling the world on her website,  Chase for Adventure . After years of wishing for a life beyond her soul-sucking 9-5, she and her husband quit their jobs, sold all of their stuff, & are traveling to every country in the world by 2023. Their work has been featured on TourRadar, ABC News, CBS 4, and Talk Your Walk. Follow their adventures on  YouTube  and  Instagram . 

Originally Published on FrancisTapon.com in July 2019.

UPDATED: October 2019

* Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links and I may get a small commission if you purchase through them. Know that we would never recommend anything we wouldn’t use ourselves and appreciate your support of this site*

i have tried traveling in the early eighties using my airline travel privilege. with just meager pocket money and some travelers checks, I have to book myself on hostels in every country in Europe,where at that time there was no EU yet, and currencies where much lower than the dollar except England.You are right go to countries with lower currencies than the dollar.

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I'm not spending my usual $1,000 a month on travel because of COVID-19, and I know exactly how to use that money: beefing up my retirement fund

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• I used to spend $1,000 per month on travel. With all the coronavirus-related travel bans, I'm saving a lot of money right now.
• After bulking up my emergency savings fund, I've decided to invest all the money I'm saving into the stock market, even as it's losing value by the day.
• Stocks are basically being sold at a steep discount right now. I have at least 20 years left before retirement, so I expect to recover any value I lose in the short-run.

As a frequent traveler living abroad, the travel bans amidst the coronavirus pandemic have completely transformed my spending habits.

Luckily, despite losing some work, I'm still saving quite a bit of money by not being able to travel right now.

Here's what I plan to do with it.

I used to spend $1,000 per month on travel — that number has dropped to $0

Travel has long been the biggest line item in my budget. Before the pandemic hit, I was spending about $1,000 per month on travel. I was able to do so by keeping what are most people's three biggest budget items to a minimum: housing, food, and transportation.

Now that I can't travel, I'm saving quite a bit of money each month, even despite taking a small hit to my income. My first focus was to beef up my emergency savings fund a little more. I wanted to make sure that I have at least a year's worth of expenses saved up given that the economy is likely to continue to fall and I'm self-employed.

My emergency fund is close to where I want it, so now I'm shifting my focus toward investing that additional income.

Why I'm investing in the stock market during the coronavirus pandemic

To follow Warren Buffett's famous advice, I'm being greedy when others are fearful. You can look at a market crash as a sign to stop investing, or you can look at it as a discount on stocks that will almost surely go back up in value again.

I choose the latter. I plan on doubling down on my retirement plan  during the coronavirus pandemic and investing as much disposable income as I can into the stock market.

However, there are some conditions in place that allow me to make this decision. First of all, I have a healthy emergency fund and very few fixed costs. This alone provides me with a good level of financial security. When needed, I am able to cut my costs down very low, and I have enough money in a high-yield savings account to last me for one year of unemployment. 

Secondly, I have a long time horizon — I won't retire for at least another 20 years. This gives me plenty of time to weather this downturn and future changes in the market.

How I'm investing during the coronavirus pandemic

A lot of investors are picking individual stocks right now that they expect will rise in value once the market recovers.

I don't pick stocks, and I don't plan to start doing so in the midst of a financial crisis. Instead, I prefer to invest in low-cost index funds . These are diversified, by design, and passively managed, meaning I can check in on them every few months and otherwise leave them be. 

I invest in index funds through Vanguard and follow the three-fund portfolio approach, which dictates that you spread your money out between a domestic stock "total market" index fund, an international stock "total market" index fund, and a bond "total market" index fund. I'll be focused on investing more in stocks.

Chances are high that we've not yet seen the worst of this. The stock market will likely continue to lose value as businesses remain shuttered. There's reason behind the fear that if you funnel your money into the stock market right now, it will lose value almost immediately — it probably will.

However, no one can predict when, exactly, the stock market will bottom out. Even if you lose value immediately on your investments, the value you'll gain by getting in early once the stock market starts to recover will likely outweigh that loss.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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Watch: Financial experts share advice on how to invest your money during the coronavirus pandemic

• Main content

The Cheapest Places to Retire Abroad on $1K Per Month

Here’s where you can retire well overseas on a very small budget.

The Cheapest Places to Retire Abroad

Getty Images

Portugal is a popular retirement destination with its warm climate and friendly locals.

Key Takeaways

• Retiring abroad on $1,000 per month doesn't mean sacrificing quality of life. Many countries offer excellent health care, infrastructure and amenities at a fraction of the cost compared to the U.S.
• The cheapest places to retire abroad include Panama, the Philippines, Portugal, Malaysia, Mexico, Thailand and Vietnam.
• Before making the move, consider expenses such as travel costs, taxes and visas, which can vary significantly from one country to another.
• During your retirement abroad, stretch your budget by embracing local culture, cuisine and lifestyle.

Moving to a lower-cost country does not mean you need to compromise on quality of life. The level of medical care, infrastructure and other important lifestyle factors can be as high as, or even superior to, U.S. equivalents. Many international locations cater to expat retirees looking for an enjoyable lifestyle and the chance to discover new places and cultures.

Before you go, you’ll need to determine how much you can afford to spend. Factor travel costs, such as flights back to the U.S. to visit family, into your overall budget. There are also taxes and visas to consider, which can vary from one country to another.

We spoke with travel and budget experts who have lived in and visited more than 50 countries, tracking living costs worldwide.

Consider these places if you have a budget of as little as $1,000 per month. Locations are listed in alphabetical order.

• Philippines.

You’ll find lower costs of living for accommodation, food and transportation in this country. “ Malaysia has a rich culture, wonderful food and beautiful scenery,” said George Lagonakis, a travel blogger at WorldTripVibe, in an email. The biggest expat communities in the country can be found on Penang Island and Kuala Lumpur. Boating and fishing are popular pastimes on Penang Island, where retirees can also enjoy swimming and strolling the beaches. In the mountains, you can also hike trails or go bird-watching. Kuala Lumpur is the capital and economic center of the country, as well as one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia.

With its warm climate, beautiful beaches and colorful displays, Mexico may be a retiree's paradise. “Places like Puerto Vallarta and Merida offer a lower cost of living while still providing access to modern amenities and a welcoming expat community,” said Peter Hamdy, founder of Auckland & Beyond Tours, in an email. San Miguel de Allende and Ajijic are also popular places for expats. “Embracing the local culture and lifestyle can help stretch your budget,” Hamdy said. “Instead of dining at fancy restaurants, try sampling delicious street food or exploring local markets for fresh produce. It's not only more affordable but also a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.”

Just a short flight from the U.S., Panama offers the chance to explore a new country and still visit home regularly. “Panama has much lower living expenditures than the U.S., especially for housing,” Lagonakis said. Panama offers a favorable tax environment, as it only taxes locally sourced income. The country has a warm, inviting culture and regularly holds festivals and folkloric events. Retirees could also take advantage of Panama's unique location and travel to nearby Caribbean or South American destinations.

You might look at living in Panama City, which draws in residents from around the world. There's also Chitré, a town located on the Pacific Coast’s Azuero Peninsula, about four hours west of Panama City by car. It’s a regional commerce and transportation hub with hospitals, shopping options, restaurants and entertainment.

Philippines

If you’re looking for a warm place where you can easily get by speaking English, the Philippines may be a good choice. This country has gained popularity among the retiree community in recent years, according to Sharon Maxwell, chief editor of SmartSEA Travel, who is originally from the Philippines. You might settle in the capital of Manila, which has everything from hospitals to shopping and entertainment. Or you could choose Cebu, an island province popular with expats.

Living in the Philippines, “your $1,000 could go far,” Maxwell said in an email. “It can cover the housing cost, health care and leisure activities. English is spoken widely (and) it's sunny 90% of the year.” While some areas of the country cater to tourists, the U.S. State Department has issued warnings for certain regions. Check the travel advisory before planning a trip.

The warm climate, friendly locals and entertainment options draw many retirees to Portugal . Living here could be a gateway to explore other parts of the region as well. “Portugal has a slower pace of life and lower cost of living than many other European countries,” Lagonakis said. “Retirement is popular in the Algarve because of its magnificent beaches, sunny weather and reasonable homes.” You might try local cuisine, visit the wine country, and explore castles and other historical sites during your time there.

Approximately 3 to 4 million foreigners live in Thailand , many of whom are retirees. They are drawn to the country’s natural beauty and affordable prices. “The cost of living is relatively low, which means retirement savings can go a long way,” Hamdy said. “From delicious street food to affordable health care, Thailand offers a great quality of life at a fraction of the cost compared to many Western countries.”

One possible option for retirees is Chiang Rai in northern Thailand, located in the temperate foothills of one of the country’s highest mountain ranges. Or you could head to Phuket, Thailand’s biggest island and one of the most popular destinations for tourists and retirees. It is known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and gorgeous sunsets.

If you’re considering Vietnam for retirement, “beautiful scenery, nice people and a rich culture define the country,” Lagonakis said. You’ll pay less for housing, groceries, transportation and health care. You might enjoy the chance to learn about the country's culture, people and history. With its warm sands and collection of cafes and restaurants, the beach city of Da Nang is a popular choice for retirees. Another top choice for retirees is Nha Trang, a coastal resort city in the south known for its beautiful ocean views, diving sites and offshore islands.

Top Travel Destinations for Retirees

Rachel Hartman June 13, 2023

Tags: retirement , money , personal finance , personal budgets , real estate

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Liberty & Wealth

$1,000 Rent: See the Property Space Across America

Posted: April 29, 2024 | Last updated: April 29, 2024

The quest for affordable living spaces across the U.S. paints a vivid picture of how far $1,000 can stretch from one city to another. This journey through America’s diverse rental market showcases not just the square footage you can snag for your budget but also the quality and locale you might expect. Here’s how property sizes stack up for $1,000 a month, from spacious bargains to cozy nooks.

#1. Memphis, TN – $1,000, around 1,200 sq ft

A three-bedroom house in Memphis might seem like a steal, yet it comes in a city battling economic challenges and higher crime rates. However, Memphis is also a city rich in culture and history, especially for music lovers, offering a vibrant community spirit.

#2. Wichita, KS – $1,000, about 1,100 sq ft

For $1,000, Wichita offers spacious living options but is tethered to an economy heavily reliant on manufacturing. The city, though, boasts a friendly atmosphere and a commitment to public spaces, enriching its residents’ lives beyond their affordable, sizeable homes.

#3. Tulsa, OK – $1,000, roughly 1,000 sq ft

Tulsa’s generous rental space comes with the caveat of an unpredictable economy. Yet, it counters with a burgeoning arts scene and rich Art Deco architecture, making it a haven for cultural enthusiasts seeking affordability and a splash of historical charm.

#4. Birmingham, AL – $1,000, around 1,000 sq ft

In Birmingham, $1,000 unlocks substantial living spaces in a city still finding its feet after industrial decline. This backdrop is contrasted by a deep-rooted civil rights history and a growing food scene, offering depth and diversity to its community fabric.

#5. Louisville, KY – $1,000, approximately 950 sq ft

Louisville’s affordability is met with a somewhat limited job market outside its renowned bourbon and shipping industries. However, its rich arts culture and the excitement of the Kentucky Derby provide a unique living experience that’s hard to find elsewhere.

#6. Detroit, MI – $1,000, about 900 sq ft

Detroit’s emerging neighborhoods offer sizeable spaces for renters, albeit in a city facing economic rebirth challenges. Yet, Detroit thrives with a creative resurgence, a legendary music scene, and a spirit of resilience that speaks to the heart of its community.

#7. El Paso, TX – $1,000, roughly 900 sq ft

El Paso’s rental market offers spacious options against a backdrop of a limited, though growing, job market. Its unique blend of American and Mexican cultures, coupled with an abundance of sunshine, makes it a compelling place for those seeking a cross-cultural living experience.

#8. Omaha, NE – $1,000, approximately 850 sq ft

With $1,000, renters in Omaha gain access to modern apartments in a city with a robust job market. Omaha blends its economic stability with a rich cultural scene, offering a balanced lifestyle for professionals and families alike.

#9. Phoenix, AZ – $1,000, around 800 sq ft

Phoenix presents a warmer option with decently sized apartments, set in a city known for its hot job market and hotter climate. The city’s outdoor lifestyle and diverse neighborhoods offer an appealing desert living experience for sun-seekers.

#10. Kansas City, MO – $1,000, about 800 sq ft

In Kansas City, $1,000 covers comfortable two-bedroom apartments in a city balancing a concentrated job market with a rich cultural tapestry, including its jazz heritage and famed barbecue, offering residents a taste of the Midwest’s best.

#11. Milwaukee, WI – $1,000, approximately 750 sq ft

Milwaukee’s sizeable rental options come with the challenge of a transitioning economy. However, the city’s vibrant arts scene, array of breweries, and lakefront beauty offer a lifestyle that’s both leisurely and culturally enriching.

#12. Philadelphia, PA – $1,000, around 700 sq ft

Philadelphia offers cozy living spaces in historic neighborhoods, reflecting its broader economic and social challenges. Yet, the city’s rich American history and dynamic food scene provide a deeply textured urban living experience.

#13. Atlanta, GA – $1,000, about 700 sq ft

In Atlanta, a bustling southern metropolis, $1,000 gets you a modern one-bedroom apartment amidst a growing tech industry. The city marries its historical significance with a burgeoning entertainment scene, making it an attractive hub for professionals and creatives.

#14. Denver, CO – $1,000, roughly 650 sq ft

Denver’s rental market tightens, offering smaller spaces for $1,000. But for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, the city’s proximity to the Rockies and a thriving job market in tech and green industries make it a desirable, though pricey, mountain haven.

#15. Portland, OR – $1,000, approximately 600 sq ft

Portland’s demand means $1,000 might only secure a studio, but it’s a city that prides itself on progressive values, a renowned foodie and craft beer scene, and access to stunning natural landscapes, balancing the squeeze on space with a high quality of life.

#16. Chicago, IL – $1,000, about 550 sq ft

Chicago offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with a small living space for the budget. The city’s rich cultural offerings, from jazz music to world-class museums, and diverse culinary scene, somewhat offset the challenges of finding affordable, spacious housing in desirable neighborhoods.

#17. Minneapolis, MN – $1,000, approximately 500 sq ft

In Minneapolis, renters can find small but efficient living spaces for $1,000, set against a backdrop of economic stability and cultural vibrancy. The city’s emphasis on the arts, outdoor recreation, and a friendly community vibe provides a balanced urban experience, despite the chilly winters.

#18. San Diego, CA – $1,000, around 500 sq ft

San Diego’s desirable climate and location mean that $1,000 doesn’t stretch far in terms of space. However, the city’s beaches, outdoor lifestyle, and burgeoning sectors in biotech and military defense offer residents a high quality of life in a tight space.

#19. Los Angeles, CA – $1,000, roughly 450 sq ft

In the sprawling city of Los Angeles, $1,000 might only secure a small studio, particularly in neighborhoods farther from the city center. Despite the squeeze, LA’s diverse cultural landscape, entertainment industry, and culinary scene offer endless opportunities for those willing to compromise on space.

#20. New York, NY – $1,000, about 400 sq ft

The iconic city that never sleeps offers minimal living space for $1,000, often in less central locations. New York City’s unparalleled access to global cultures, industries, and entertainment makes the cramped quarters a worthwhile trade-off for many seeking the quintessential urban experience.

Balancing Act

Exploring the rental market at $1,000 a month reveals the diverse range of living spaces available across the country, from ample bargains to cozy hideaways, reflecting the distinct character of each city within the confines of a budget.

The post $1,000 Rent: See the Property Space Across America  first appeared on  Liberty & Wealth .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Monkey Business Images.

The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional financial advice.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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WHIAANHPI and SmithsonianAPA Unveil Joint Theme for 2024 Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month: ‘Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future’

The White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders and the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center issue call for intergenerational connection, action, and reflection.

The White House and WHIAANHPI will convene over 1,000 AA and NHPI leaders on May 13 for a landmark celebration at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium.

Today, the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI) and the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center are proud to present our joint 2024 theme for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) Heritage Month: “Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future.”

Since the late 1970s, our country has recognized the invaluable contributions of AA and NHPI communities each May. For more than a decade, the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center and WHIAANHPI have collaborated to identify a national theme for AA and NHPI Heritage Month in consultation with the White House and community partners. Previous themes such as "I Am Beyond" (2014) and "Visible Together" (2023) have been warmly embraced, both by federal agencies and community-serving organizations, and have served as catalysts for meaningful dialogue around AA and NHPI identity.

The 2024 theme is an homage to our ancestors and invites all Americans to delve into the legacies, triumphs, and challenges that have shaped AA and NHPI communities. It embodies the spirit of our collective journey – one rooted in resilience and hope – and encourages us to forge intergenerational connections to honor our past and pave a durable path forward.

The White House and WHIAANHPI will use this theme to foster discussions during our May activities, including a landmark celebration on May 13, 2024, at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, DC. This historic convening, uniting over 1,000 AA and NHPI leaders spanning five presidential administrations, will mark the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the White House Initiative and the President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders during the Clinton Administration. Sign up to receive the livestream link here .

About Our 2024 Theme: “Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future”

As the Nation observes Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) Heritage Month in May, we reflect on our rich heritage and storied past. From Indigenous Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities whose wisdom and knowledge helped to shape this country and continue to guide us today, to the immigrants and refugees who came to our shores in search of better opportunities, to the trailblazers who paved the way for progress across generations – our communities’ journey has been one of tragedy and triumph, adversity, and resilience.

Knowing our histories gives us power. Throughout the month, let us embrace the interconnectedness of our stories and honor the visionaries who came before us. Let us commit to spotlighting the myriad ways diverse AA and NHPI communities have enriched every facet of American life. And let us endeavor to build bridges across generations, experiences, and cultures to forge a future where all of us can thrive.

The White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI), established by President Joe Biden through Executive Order 14031, is charged with coordinating a whole-of-government agenda to advance equity, justice, and opportunity for AA and NHPI communities. Learn more at hhs.gov/whiaanhpi.

The Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center (APAC), established in 1997, strives to ensure the comprehensive representation and inclusion of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in the Smithsonian’s collections, research, exhibitions, and programs. Through education initiatives, publications, and public programs, APAC provides new avenues to document, celebrate, and share the rich and diverse history, art, and culture of AA and NHPI communities. Learn more at apa.si.edu.

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Monday 29 April 2024 14:32, UK

• Big picture : What you need to know as a new week begins
• North Korea expresses 'concern' over US sending long-range missiles to Ukraine
• Explained : Why is Chasiv Yar the next target for Russia?
• Your questions answered: Will Ukraine launch another spring offensive?
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• Live reporting by Andy Hayes

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has given "new impetus" to calls for the EU to be enlarged beyond the current 27 members, Charles Michel, the president of the European Council, has said.

The alternative would be a "terrible, irresponsible mistake", he added.

Discussing an enlargement in 2004, when 10 mostly ex-communist nations such as Poland and Hungary joined the bloc, Mr Michel said it had been a "call of history to unite European countries", the 20th anniversary of which is on Wednesday.

He added: "Twenty years later we face a similar challenge because there is this geo-political chaos, including because of this war by Russia against Ukraine. 

"And facing this chaos is the geo-political strategy to reunify once again." 

Current applicants to join the EU include six Balkan countries, plus Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova. 

Ukraine is by far the largest prospective member.

"Because of the war launched by Russia against Ukraine, there is a new impetus, a reinvigoration of the (EU) enlargement strategy," Mr Michel said. 

"It is challenging. But what is the alternative? The alternative would be a terrible, irresponsible mistake from the EU." 

He suggested the EU and candidate countries should carry out the reforms necessary for enlargement by 2030.

Fresh supplies of weapons from the US have begun to arrive in Ukraine but the process needs to speed up, Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said. 

Speaking alongside NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg at a joint news conference in Kyiv, the Ukrainian president said there had been "timely support for our army".

He added, however: "Today I don't see anything positive on this point yet. 

"There are supplies - they have slightly begun. This process needs to be sped up."

A new $61bn (£48bn) US military aid package was finally signed into law last week after months of deadlock in the US House of Representatives.

Kyiv is hoping its critically low stocks of artillery shells will soon be replenished. 

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has thanked "partners" as he said Ukraine is "making every effort" to use drones more effectively.

In addition to posting some pictures on X, the Ukrainian president said he wanted to thank people who train drone operators, as well as "our warriors for their efficiency".

He added: "I thank everyone involved in the production and those who ensure better protection of the Ukrainian skies through their work."

Ukrainian servicemen have been saying goodbye to their visiting partners at the railway station in Kramatorsk, eastern Ukraine.

The men were on a short break from frontline duty.

Russia's defence ministry says its forces have taken control of the village of Semenivka in the eastern Donetsk region.

Yesterday, the ministry announced the capture of another village, Novobakhmutivka.

Ocheretyne, also near by, has been a focal point of fighting in recent days.

Ukraine's top general, speaking yesterday, said fighting had intensified in the east of the country, with troops falling back in three areas. 

Oleksandr Syrskyi said Russian troops had achieved "certain tactical successes" in the villages of Berdychi, Semenivka and Novomykhailivka.

Ukraine has confirmed that chatbots used by its security agencies on Telegram have been restored after being temporarily blocked.

We reported earlier (6.56am post) that Kyiv's security service described their blocking as "unreasonable".

Now, Ukraine's Centre for Strategic Communication has said three affected bots, used by Ukraine's SBU security service, the GUR and digital ministry for the war effort, had been restored.

A Telegram spokesperson said they were "temporarily disabled due to a false positive but have since been reinstated".

The number of civilians killed or injured in Ukraine in March was 604, according to the UN, which has a human rights monitoring team in the country.

The figure is 20% higher than February's.

The UK defence ministry, highlighting the numbers in its daily intelligence update, said 57 children were reported killed in March, "double the previous month". 

Their deaths have been "attributed directly to Russian use of aerial munitions", the MoD said.

Civilian deaths in general are attributed to "missile and aerial-munitions strikes throughout Ukraine and increased bombardment at the frontlines".

The UN's report highlights an increase in coordinated strikes on critical Ukrainian infrastructure, with 20 sites "destroyed or damaged".

In total, there have been 31,366 civilian casualties in Ukraine since 24 February 2022, the MoD said (including areas Russia is controlling).

Of those, 10,810 were killed and 20,556 were wounded.

We reported earlier in our big picture post (6.27am post) that Oleksandr Pivnenko, who commands Ukraine's National Guard, is not ruling out a Russian attempt to target Kharkiv - Ukraine's second-largest city.

Kharkiv has been the focus of recent air attacks.

The US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) thinktank assesses that the Russian military "lacks the forces necessary to seize the city".

But the commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian armed forces, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, has said the threat of an invasion is causing Ukraine to allocate additional resources to defend the city - weakening forces elsewhere.

The ISW said: "Syrskyi noted that Ukrainian forces have recently improved their positions near Synkivka (east of Kharkiv)."

The Russians' "combat effectiveness" can be questioned because of their "inability to seize Synkivka despite repeated mass infantry and mechanized assaults", the ISW said.

It went on: "ISW continues to assess that a potential future Russian offensive to seize Kharkiv City would be an extremely ambitious undertaking that would pose significant challenges to Russian forces, particularly since Russian forces will be facing better-equipped Ukrainian forces following the arrival of US military assistance."

Telegram has reportedly restored some blocked Ukrainian bots.

They include those of the security service and ministry of digital transformation, the Kyiv Post said on X.

As we reported earlier (6.56am post) the security service said Telegram had "unreasonably" blocked bots that "opposed Russia's military aggression against Ukraine".

Three men who are entrepreneurs in their day jobs have been assembling drones in a home kitchen in Kyiv.

Denys, Yaw and Eugene send the tiny aircraft on to the Ukrainian armed forces.

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