cheapest country to visit with us dollar

21 Cheap Places to Travel in 2024

By Caitlin Morton

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

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

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

Budapest, Hungary

1 USD = 351.21 HUF

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

South Korea

1 USD = 1,301.45 KRW

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

1 USD = 17.22 MXN

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

An eagle hunter riding near the Altai Mountains in Mongolia.

1 USD = 3,449.69 MNT

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

1 USD = 24,275.00 VND

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

1 USD = 4.94 BRL

Jessica Chapel

Alex Erdekian

Diana Oates

Jessica Puckett

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

South Africa

1 USD = 18.30 ZAR

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

Traditional stilt fishermen in Sri Lanka

1 USD = 327.31 SLR

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

1 USD = 525.96 CRC

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

Philippines

1 USD = 55.89 PHP

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

1 USD = 4,580 MGA

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

Cairo, Egypt.

1 USD = 30.93 EGP

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

1 USD = 4.67 MYR

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

1 USD = 83.04 INR

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

1 USD = 107.45 RSD

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

Ohrid, North Macedonia

North Macedonia

1 USD = 56.44 MKD

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

1 USD = 132.92 NPR

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

1 USD = 66.99 GMD

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

1 USD = 15,556.65 IDR

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

Beach near Ksamil, Albania.

1 USD = 93.95 ALL

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

1 USD = 12,375.00 UZS

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

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34 best countries to travel for less than $40/day (total) in 2024

• Post author: Andrew D'Amours
• Post published: March 1, 2024
• Post category: General wanderlust / Travel inspiration
• Post comments: 2 Comments

The cheapest countries to travel to are also wonderful destinations, allowing you to travel for less, for longer, or in luxury. It’s so sad that so many people think that travel is necessarily expensive because it’s just not true. It absolutely can be affordable, that’s not debatable. But you have to want to of course.

Most importantly, you have to choose the right destinations to make it as cheap as possible. Good news: they’re awesome destinations too!

Here are the details of the 34 best countries to travel to for a TOTAL of less than $40 a day in 2024, with a few basic tips because it’s such an important topic (arguably THE most important to travel for less).

Basics of the cost of traveling

It’s important to understand the difference between:

• What most people sadly think is affordable
• What is really affordable

Quite frankly, as pro travelers, it fascinates us that so many people find Portugal affordable. No, it’s objectively not.

It’s normal to just not know , you can’t know until you discover it yourself or someone tells you, like so many things in the world of travel . For a long time, I myself thought traveling was expensive, and I wasted so much time because of that. I badly wish someone had told me earlier…

So now, you do know!

North America and Western Europe are obviously the worst places in the world in terms of cost of living, and unfortunately, a lot of people have never gone outside of that axis. Of course, compared to that, Portugal is more affordable . But it’s still not affordable !

Countries where you can easily pay just $40 total per day (if you want), that is affordable. Also, they’re often less overcrowded with tourists, a double-win!

Basics of planning how to travel for less

Here’s something that seems obvious to us but that sometimes isn’t for everyone, so we’ll clarify it:

• We’re not saying to always go to these countries
• But at the very least don’t just always go to the expensive ones

If you want to save money , it’s really not rocket science: go to affordable countries.

That way, you don’t need to change anything else in the way you travel , and everything will be half as expensive, or even better than half. And those on this list are all safe too!

My Taylor Swift tickets for US$23 in Brazil in November are a great example. Those tickets are selling for $1500 in Toronto. It’s the exact same artist, the exact same concert, the exact same decor, everything is the same. It’s just in an affordable country (and not even among the most affordable , as it isn’t even on this list).

The same simple principle obviously applies to hotels, meals, activities, EVERYTHING: the same quality is much cheaper if you simply choose affordable countries.

And even if you prefer luxury… luxury is so much cheaper in these countries too, obviously. So it’s still the best tip!

Basics of the cheapest countries to travel to

It’s very important to know this (I believe the vast majority does, and others need to please travel more to broaden their horizons and destroy their prejudices):

• Affordable countries have a lot to offer
• Almost all of our favorite countries are on this list

I am going to be quite direct about this: when someone tells me that cheap countries have nothing to offer and aren’t worth visiting, it blows my mind . Tell me you don’t know what you’re talking about without telling me you don’t know what you’re talking about… 

Everyone has different tastes, but in this guide, you’ll find 34 super-affordable countries where you can definitely discover some incredible places.

Cities, culture, food, history, architecture, nature, beaches, mountains, hikes… if you want to, you can find anything in affordable countries. If not, you’re really not trying very hard. It’s fine to not want to … it’s not fine to say there’s nothing interesting in all affordable countries . Because it’s absolutely false.

As I said, personally, almost all my favorite countries (I’ve visited 71) are really on this list, hands down. Same thing for Flytrippers’ co-founder, Kevin (who’s visited 86). We know better than most people, just like most people who do more hiking know more about that than we do. Basic math 🙂

Basics of the $40 per day cost

Here are the basics of how this budget works :

• It’s easily attainable with budget travel (of course it’s easy to spend more, as it is everywhere)
• It’s not 100% equal in all 34 countries, it’s a bit easier in some (it’s a general guideline)
• It’s illustrated with 2 lodging examples for each country (highly-rated ones only, you can find cheaper)

Of course, even in the cheapest countries in the world, you can still spend $400 a day. There’s never a maximum limit anywhere. But there are minimum limits. Good luck spending just $40 a day in France! Almost impossible. 

But in the 34 countries listed below, it’s quite easy, especially if you use a few basic budget travel tips . 

To give you some examples, we’ve used the cost of accommodation. It’s not perfect, but it’s often the biggest expense. For each country, we’ve put 1 example of a hotel for those traveling with a buddy and 1 example of a hostel for those traveling solo.

There are much cheaper ones than our examples (there’s ALWAYS a way to save more), including guest houses for example, but the ones we’ve included are always hotels and hostels that are very highly rated too .

Map of 34 best affordable countries in 2024

Here’s the map version, and we look at them all one by one below, by region.

Southeast Asia

The favorite region of just about every traveler who likes to save money and for good reason!

1. Indonesia

With 17,000 islands, Indonesia has so many absolutely incredible destinations (with great biodiversity). The world’s 4th most populous country has a rich culture and much to discover.

Bali is obviously the most popular (and touristy) island, which I still found very interesting. But Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Sulawesi, and New Guinea are other huge islands and generally have even lower prices obviously.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $11 per night ($6 per night per person) in Bali, Indonesia.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $9 per night  in Bali, Indonesia.

2. Malaysia

Possibly the most underrated destination in Southeast Asia, Malaysia has been a favorite of mine and has sublime natural attractions. It’s 1 of the 17 megadiverse countries in the world, meaning they’re the richest in terms of biodiversity.

The capital, Kuala Lumpur, is fantastic. There are other destinations worth exploring on the peninsular and on the island of Borneo. These happen to be the cheapest in the country. Smaller islands like Penang and Langkawi are also worth a visit.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $25 per night ($13 per night per person) in Langkawi, Malaysia.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $17 per night in Langkawi, Malaysia.

3. Thailand

Thailand is Southeast Asia’s best-known country. The Land of Smiles attracts a huge number of travelers in search of a change of scenery and heavenly beaches. Kevin has been there a dozen times and loved it.

There’s no shortage of variety here: Bangkok is certainly one of the world’s most iconic cities, and Chiang Mai literally plunges you into the jungle. The islands are mostly in the south, including the popular Phuket.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $16 per night ($8 per night per person) in Phuket, Thailand.

Here’s an example of a hostel for $8 per night in Phuket, Thailand.

4. Viet Nam

The 15th most populous country in the world, Viet Nam has a recent tumultuous history but offers so many beautiful places to discover from north to south, including over 3,000 kilometers of coastline. Kevin enjoyed all the places in the country.

The metropolises of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) are very dynamic. The country also has magnificent national parks, such as the famous Ha Long Bay, and other pretty little towns too, such as Da Nang and Hoi An.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $15 per night ($8 per night per person) in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam.

Here’s an example of a hostel for $5 per night in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam.

5. Cambodia

Cambodia is another country with a very long history, but this one is relatively sparsely populated for this region, giving it a different vibe. Kevin also recommends this country, which he visited for 1 month.

The capital, Phnom Penh, is interesting, but most travelers spend more time visiting the famous Buddhist temples, including the gigantic and impressive Angkor Wat, as well as Kampot and Sihanoukville.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $23 per night ($12 per night per person) in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Here’s an example of a hostel at$5 per night  in Siem Reap, Cambodia

6. Philippines

An archipelago of 7641 islands, the Philippines is a favorite destination for many explorers. Its people are extremely welcoming and its nature is second to none, not even countries where everything is 5 times more expensive!

City fans will love Manila, but the most popular spots are generally the islands of Palawan, Cebu, and Coron.

Here’s an example of a $23 per night hotel ($12 per night per person) in Cebu, Philippines.

Here’s an example of a hostel for $4 per night  in Cebu, Philippines.

The least-known country and the only one without access to the sea in this beautiful region of the world, Laos is less populated than Ontario!

Its capital, Vientiane, is far from being the most popular destination. However, this country has some very charming small villages and a much more attractive city, Luang Prabang.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $28 per night ($14 per night per person) in Luang Prabang, Laos.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $5 per night  in Luang Prabang, Laos.

Formerly known as Burma (and still wrongly called that by many, even 30+ years later), Myanmar is the most off-the-beaten-path country in Southeast Asia.

Very authentic, in many parts of the country, locals still live traditional lives. In addition to the cities of Yangon and Mandalay, Bagan and the coast are also popular.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $43 per night ($22 per night per person) in Bagan, Myanmar.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $11 per night in Bagan, Myanmar.

The most exotic part of the most exotic and awesome continent is also one of the most affordable… talk about a win-win combo!

Earning the title of the most populous country in the world since 2023, India is an iconic destination for many travelers. Like all of South Asia, this place will definitely take you out of your comfort zone.

The big cities of Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata are well worth a visit, but the mountains of the north, the desert of the center, and the beaches of the south are just as interesting. It’s a country that really does have something for every traveler, and I enjoyed visiting it last summer.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $17 per night ($8 per night per person) in Goa, India.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $5 per night  in Goa, India.

This small mountainous country is one of the most iconic destinations in this part of the world. Yet it’s still very affordable!

Trekking all over the country is usually well-loved by travelers, as are the temples you can find in some cities, including the capital Kathmandu. Kevin spent some time there and highly recommends it.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $18 per night ($9 per night per person) in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $7 per night  in Kathmandu, Nepal.

11. Bangladesh

The 8th most populous country in the world, Bangladesh is not as well known, so few travelers add it to their itinerary. It’s a unique, out-of-the-ordinary destination that certainly deserves to be explored further.

In addition to cities like Dakha and Chittagong, Bangladesh boasts incredible temples and the world’s longest beach. It is also one of the greenest countries in the region.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $34 per night ($17 per night per person) in Sylhet, Bangladesh.

This country is easier to discover on a budget with a buddy: unfortunately, there don’t seem to be any hostels in Bangladesh.

12. Sri Lanka

The small, beautiful island of Sri Lanka is one of Kevin’s highlights. It’s one of his favorites among the 86 countries he’s visited! It’s definitely worth exploring if you love nature.

There’s a lot of variety for such a small country, with sublime coastlines, lush green landscapes, and surprising safaris! 

Here’s an example of a hotel at $28 per night ($14 per night per person) in Kandy, Sri Lanka.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $9 per night in Kandy, Sri Lanka.

Central Asia

A region often overlooked but with so much history and sublime scenery.

13. Uzbekistan

One of my all-time favorite countries, Uzbekistan is both a change of scenery and very orderly, a rare combination. The ancient Silk Road has left behind many magnificent vestiges.

The 3 historic cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are the preferred itinerary, and all 3 are worth a visit. There are no words to tell you how much I recommend Uzbekistan if you want to venture off the beaten path.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $42 per night ($21 per night per person) in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $23 per night in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

14. Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is renowned for its grandiose landscapes, perfect for those who want to be out in nature without the crowds.

Bishkek is the starting point, but there are plenty of places to go to explore the traditional nomadic lifestyle of this region. I can’t wait to go back and venture out of the capital, even though I found it to be a cool city: the rest looks even better.

Here’s an example of a $53 per night hotel ($27 per night per person) in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $11 per night in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

The last region of Asia with very affordable countries, which has countries that look like Europe… including one of my favorite countries in the world!

15. Türkiye

Türkiye spans 2 continents, Asia and Europe. This country has a lot to offer, including a rich cultural heritage, splendid landscapes, and delicious cuisine! One of my absolute favorites in the world!

Istanbul is the country’s must-see metropolis, followed by the capital Ankara. The Cappadocia region is famous for its underground cities and hot-air balloon flights over rocky landscapes. The long Mediterranean coastline is sublime. The east of the country is another world entirely.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $39 per night ($19 per night per person) in Istanbul, Türkiye.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $15 per night in Istanbul, Türkiye.

16. Georgia

Just like Türkiye, Georgia is located at the crossroads of these 2 continents, which are not clearly defined. This beautiful country is recognized for its cultural, historical, and political affiliation with Europe, especially since it obtained official status as a candidate for European Union membership in December 2023.

Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is a dynamic city with captivating architecture, picturesque streets, and traditional thermal baths. Other places to explore include Mtskheta, Batumi, and Signagi. Kevin spent 3 months there because he loved it so much!

Here’s an example of a $32 per night hotel ($16 per night per person) in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $16 per night in Tbilisi, Georgia.

17. Azerbaijan

With its UNESCO World Heritage sites, varied landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Azerbaijan is attracting more and more travelers! 

The capital, Baku, is well worth a visit, with its historic quarter, lively nightlife, and proximity to the Gobustan National Park. Nature lovers, meanwhile, will appreciate the beautiful mountainous region of Gabala.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $24 per night ($12 per night per person) in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $10 per night  in Baku, Azerbaijan.

18. Armenia

Located in the Caucasus region like the 2 previous ones, this landlocked nation attracts visitors with its thousand-year-old history, mountainous landscapes, and thriving artistic traditions combining music, dance, and handicrafts, all at affordable prices!

Armenia is full of iconic religious sites and lush nature. Yerevan, the Armenian capital, will surely charm you with its vibrant mix of ancient history and modernity, as well as its bustling streets. Kevin enjoyed this city a lot!

Here’s an example of a hotel at $44 per night ($22 per night per person) in Yerevan, Armenia.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $18 per night in Yerevan, Armenia.

The world’s least explored continent has many affordable destinations. Note that not all countries are affordable for travelers despite their low cost of living, because often they have too few infrastructures for travelers.

Famous for its legendary pharaohs, the pyramids of Giza, the emblematic Nile River, its vast deserts, its diving in the Red Sea, and ancient temples, Egypt is a traveler’s dream!

Cairo is a different and surprising capital, close to all the main places of interest. What’s more, this year the world’s largest museum of Egyptian civilization will finally open its doors to visitors after 2 decades of construction. 

Don’t forget to visit Alexandria, once home to the famous library and lighthouse, one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world. Kevin spent over 3 weeks in the country and loved it: he’ll be sharing his experience with you soon.

Here’s an example of a $26 per night hotel ($13 per night per person) in Cairo, Egypt.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $10 per night  in Cairo, Egypt.

20. Morocco

This jewel of the Maghreb in North Africa attracts travelers for its unique cultural diversity and fascinating history, ranging from bustling medinas to imperial cities. Not the most affordable of affordable countries, but I still loved my trips there.

Marrakech, also known as the “Red City,” awaits you with its exquisite Arab and Berber cuisine and spice markets. Chefchaouen, the “Blue City” of Morocco, is highly appreciated by photographers and absolutely stunning. Other must-visit places include the unique city of Tangier (once a city that didn’t belong to any country), the beautiful city of Fes (with one of the prettiest historic centers), Rabat (the capital), and Casablanca (the country’s largest city).

Here’s an example of a hotel at $38 per night ($19 per night per person) in Chefchaouen, Morocco.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $11 per night in Chefchaouen, Morocco.

21. Tunisia

Tunisia reveals its unique charms through the vast desert expanses of the Sahara, its Berber culture in the Atlas Mountains, its picturesque oases, and sunny Mediterranean beaches, not to mention its affordable prices for travelers! It’s the exact same sea where everything is pricier on the north coast!

The vibrant atmosphere of Tunis’ medina is sure to please you, as are the ancient ruins of Carthage. Other Roman remains can be found in El Jem and Dougga.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $24 per night ($12 per night per person) in Sousse, Tunisia.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $22 per night in Djerba, Tunisia.

22. Algeria

Algeria is the largest country in Africa, the Arab world, and the Mediterranean basin. It ranks 10th in the world in terms of area. It’s the most developed country on the continent of Africa (according to the Human Development Index), so it’s on the higher end of these affordable countries obviously.

This land, with its impressive historical heritage, is filled with natural treasures such as the Tassili n’Ajjer National Park, as well as dynamic cities like Algiers and Oran. Archaeological sites such as Timgad, the M’Zab Valley, and the Casbah of Algiers are among the most popular destinations for travelers.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $51 per night ($26 per night per person) in Algiers, Algeria.

It’s another country that’s easier to discover on a budget with a buddy: there don’t seem to be any hostels in Algeria.

23. Madagascar

Located off the southeast coast of Africa, Madagascar is the 4th largest island on our planet and the 2nd largest island country in the world.

It’s Madagascar’s incredible landscapes and unique biodiversity that give it its must-see reputation. Attractions like the Avenue of the Baobabs and Lemurs’ Park offer unforgettable experiences. In addition to the capital Antananarivo, you absolutely must visit Nosy Be, a small tropical paradise.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $26 per night ($13 per night per person) in Antsirabe, Madagascar.

This is the last of the countries that are easier to discover on a budget with a buddy: there don’t seem to be any hostels in Madagascar.

Located in East Africa, Kenya is one of the best-known destinations in Sub-Saharan Africa. 

The country is renowned for its wildlife reserves and safaris, particularly in the Masai Mara. Travelers also appreciate the main cities of Nairobi and Mombasa, as well as the idyllic beaches of the Indian Ocean and the island of Lamu.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $21 per night ($11 per night per person) in Malindi, Kenya.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $14 per night  in Mombasa, Kenya.

With an estimated population of over 34 million people, Ghana is a growing tourist destination in West Africa. Kevin is in the 2nd month of his journey in this region of Africa and will soon be able to tell you about Ghana.

Its coastline is bordered by the Gulf of Guinea, offering beautiful beaches like Busua and Kokrobite, popular for relaxation and surfing. In addition to the major cities of Accra and Kumasi, there are national parks, forts, and castles in Cape Coast and Elmina, not to mention Lake Volta, the largest artificial lake in the world.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $36 per night ($18 per night per person) in Accra, Ghana.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $19 per night  in Accra, Ghana.

Far from being the most affordable continent, there are still a few options.

26. Bosnia-Herzegovina

If you think traveling around Europe costs a fortune, you’ve never been to Bosnia-Herzegovina! Despite its small size, this country offers a rich variety of landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and a small but very charming coastline along the Adriatic Sea.

There are many interesting cities, including the capital Sarajevo, Banja Luka, the country’s second-largest city, and the picturesque towns of Mostar and Blagaj. There’s just as much history as out West!

Here’s an example of a hotel at $38 per night ($19 per night per person) in Banja Luka, Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $16 per night in Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina.

27. North Macedonia

Here’s another European country that won’t break the bank! North Macedonia is a landlocked Balkan country. It’s a beautiful, mountainous place with around fifty lakes, perfect for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities.

Skopje, the capital, is famous for its architecture, which blends the old and the modern (I’ve never seen anything like it anywhere else in the world), while Lake Ohrid offers breathtaking views. The town of Ohrid, famous for its medieval churches, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $50 per night ($25 per night per person) in Skopje, Northern Macedonia.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $22 per night in Skopje, Northern Macedonia.

28. Moldova

This Eastern European country is one of the least visited on the continent. It’s therefore an off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers seeking unique experiences, another one that I absolutely loved. Plus, it’s cheap there!

Don’t miss the many vineyards, including the world’s largest wine collection, which is completely underground: we explored it by car, that’s how big it is. The capital Chișinău is interesting too.

We lovedthe separatist region called Transnistria , self-proclaimed independent since 1991. Even though it’s not recognized abroad, Transnistria is a de facto country, with its own government, customs, and currency! Although Transnistria might be the only region in these 34 countries to avoid now, with the Russia situation.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $36 per night ($18 per night per person) in Chișinău, Moldova.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $16 per night in Chișinău, Moldova.

Central America

The affordable region that’s closest to home, so often the cheapest overall for shorter trips because of cheaper flights.

29. Guatemala

This beautiful country was once home to the heart of the Mayan civilization. Today, Guatemala is Central America’s most populous country and is usually a favorite among travelers. Personally, I’d never been much attracted to Central America, but I really liked this country.

Guatemala is splendid, offering majestic volcanoes, lush jungles, and picturesque lakes like Lake Atitlán. The capital, Ciudad de Guatemala, is often overlooked by visitors who prefer to explore Antigua and Chichicastenango. Yet they are all well worth a visit! 

Here’s an example of a hotel at $35 per night ($17 per night per person) in Lake Atitlán, Guatemala.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $17 per night in Lake Atitlán, Guatemala.

30. El Salvador

Despite its small size, El Salvador has a diverse culture, influenced by its colonial history and Indigenous roots. This country is less well-known than its neighbors, yet it doesn’t lack character. We visited in early 2022 and loved the country, but if the price of bitcoin keeps going up, this might not be an affordable destination for long (it was the first country in the world to make bitcoin legal tender). Lodging already seems much more expensive.

Beyond the capital San Salvador, which has surprisingly interesting neighborhoods, get ready to explore breathtaking archaeological sites, pretty beaches like El Tunco, and stunning national parks. La Libertad is a coastal town not to be missed, especially by surfing enthusiasts.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $43 per night ($22 per night per person) in La Libertad, El Salvador.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $24 per night in La Libertad, El Salvador.

31. Nicaragua

Although Nicaragua is not as visited as other places, its charm lies in its well-preserved nature. Prices are affordable, people are friendly, and the beaches are sublime, especially in San Juan del Sur! 

You can also find colonial towns like Granada and León, abundant biodiversity, active volcanoes, and Central America’s largest lake, Lake Nicaragua. Managua is the country’s capital and largest city.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $43 per night ($22 per night per person) in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $15 per night in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.

South America

Last but not least.

32. Argentina

Argentina is the 8th largest country in the world and has a unique history with many different influences. Over 97% of the population has some European origins (mainly Italian, not Spanish as many people imagine), but 56% of the population also has Indigenous origins. It’s a beautiful melting pot of cultures! Kevin loved his month and a half there!

The capital, Buenos Aires, is not to be missed, with its elegant architecture, lively neighborhoods, tango dancers, high-quality nightlife, amazing steaks, and very affordable prices. Buenos Aires is also called “the Paris of the South” for its European flair. The majestic Iguazú Falls and Patagonia also delight travelers, as do the less-visited inland regions. However, Patagonia is a very expensive region, it’s not at all a cheap destination.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $54 per night ($27 per night per person) in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $16 per night in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

33. Colombia

Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, with its Caribbean beaches, Amazon rainforests, Andes mountains, and national parks like Tayrona. We both loved our trips to Colombia too!

Colombian attractions are diverse, ranging from the old town of Cartagena to the mystical Ciudad Perdida, from the dynamic capital Bogotá to the sumptuous beaches of San Andrés and Santa Marta, and from the majestic Los Nevados National Park to Comuna 13 in Medellín. This exceptional diversity explains why the country is attracting more and more visitors!

Here’s an example of a hotel at $39 per night ($20 per night per person) in Santa Marta, Colombia.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $14 per night  in Medellín, Colombia.

34. Bolivia

This beautiful landlocked country in central-western South America has a culture strongly influenced by Indigenous traditions.

Bolivia offers a variety of scenery, from the high plateaus of the Andes to the vast plains at the edge of the Amazon, including the famous Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt desert on the planet. Be prepared for altitude: La Paz is the world’s highest capital and Titicaca is the highest navigable lake on the planet.

Here’s an example of a hotel at $30 per night  ($15 per night per person) in La Paz, Bolivia.

Here’s an example of a hostel at $11 per night in La Paz, Bolivia.

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You forgot Ecuador, Peru and Chile. Very safe and inexpensive. Also Brazil and Uruguay.

Usually slightly more pricey than the others, but still very affordable indeed!

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The Ultimate Guide to the Cheapest Countries to Visit

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So you’ve caught the travel bug, but your wallet’s feeling a bit light? You’re not alone. Many of us dream of exploring the world but are held back by a tight budget. But what if we told you that there’s a world of affordable, breathtaking destinations waiting for you?

• Tunisia is the cheapest country to travel to with an average daily cost of $19.60 per person.
• South Asian countries are known for their budget-friendly travel experiences.
• Expert travel blogger, Nomadic Matt, champions traveling cheap without missing out on experiences.

A Deeper Dive into Cost-Effective Wanderlust

The world is vast, diverse, and filled with destinations that won’t drain your savings. Let’s unpack some of these budget-friendly wonders.

Tantalizing Tunisia

With an enticing blend of Mediterranean beaches, Saharan desert landscapes, and rich history, Tunisia offers a unique North African experience. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council , it ranks as the cheapest country to visit. Imagine wandering the ancient ruins of Carthage or losing yourself in the medinas of Tunis without spending a fortune.

South Asia: A Pocket-Friendly Paradise

The magic of South Asia lies not just in its rich culture and history but also in its affordability. Countries like India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka are magnets for budget travelers, offering experiences ranging from Himalayan treks to serene beach retreats. These nations, with their low cost of living, have become iconic for backpackers and wanderlust chasers globally.

Nomadic Matt’s Wise Words

It’s essential to find value while lowering expenses on your travels. As Nomadic Matt , a celebrated travel blogger, says, “Traveling cheap is all about…finding ways to lower your expenses while still being able to afford to do what you want.” With the right strategies and destinations, budget travel doesn’t mean missing out.

Kevin Erickson’s Insider Tips

Our very own travel expert, Kevin Erickson, has had his fair share of affordable adventures. He recommends using local transport, savoring street food, and staying in hostels or guesthouses to truly immerse oneself in a place. Kevin also emphasizes the importance of traveling during the off-peak season to get the most bang for your buck.

Challenging the Status Quo

Who says you need to be rolling in cash to see the world? It’s time to challenge this assumption. The planet brims with destinations that are both unforgettable and affordable. It’s all about knowing where to look and how to travel smart .

India , often termed the subcontinent, provides a mosaic of experiences. From the architectural marvels of the Mughal-era like the Taj Mahal to the vibrant bazaars of Jaipur and the serene backwaters of Kerala, there’s something for everyone. Street food, often costing less than a dollar, allows travelers to savor flavors from different regions without emptying their pockets.

In contrast, Nepal , nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Himalayas, calls out to those seeking both adventure and spirituality. Trekking the Annapurna Circuit or visiting the ancient temples and stupas in Kathmandu can be surprisingly affordable. Furthermore, the warm hospitality of the Nepali people often leads to homestays, giving travelers an authentic experience at a minimal cost.

Sri Lanka , the teardrop island, boasts pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a rich Buddhist heritage. Whether it’s riding the scenic train through Ella’s tea plantations or spotting leopards in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka offers luxury experiences at a fraction of the cost. Moreover, the island’s delectable seafood is a treat for the taste buds and the wallet!

Exploring South Asia can be a transformative experience, not just for the soul but also for your savings. It’s a testament to the fact that some of the most enriching travel experiences don’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Travel isn’t a luxury reserved for the wealthy. With the right knowledge and approach, it’s accessible to everyone. So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and discover the myriad of wonders that the world’s cheapest countries have to offer.

Why is Tunisia so affordable for travelers?

Tunisia’s cost of living is significantly lower than many Western countries, and the local economy benefits from tourism, leading to competitive pricing to attract visitors.

Are there safety concerns when traveling to cheaper countries?

Safety varies by destination. Always conduct research, use common sense, and follow travel advisories for the most up-to-date information.

How does the off-peak season impact travel costs?

Traveling off-peak often means fewer tourists, leading to lower accommodation and attraction prices. Airlines and hotels may also offer discounts to attract visitors.

Can I still have a luxury experience in a cheap country?

Absolutely! Your money can often go much further in these countries, allowing for more upscale experiences at a fraction of the price you’d pay elsewhere.

How do I find the best deals when planning my trip?

Utilize travel comparison sites, set up fare alerts, and consider flexible travel dates to snag the best deals.

What are the top 5 cheapest countries to visit right now?

This can vary based on economic factors, but as of this writing, some of the cheapest countries include Tunisia, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.

References:

• World Travel and Tourism Council. (2021). Tunisia Travel Cost Analysis.
• Nomadic Matt. (2020). Tips for Budget Travel.
• U.S. Department of State. (2021). Travel advisories.

This post is also available in: English

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One response to “The Ultimate Guide to the Cheapest Countries to Visit”

Deborah, your insightful blog post struck a chord with me. I’ve also found that embracing minimalism, as you suggest, brings clarity and peace. It reminded me of when I purged my closet of unnecessary items, and the liberating feeling it brought. Have you also experienced similar emotions during your journey to minimalism? I’d also argue that this isn’t just about physical space. Clutter in our minds is equally disruptive. I’d love to hear more about your thoughts on mental decluttering. Keep up the great work!

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13 of the cheapest countires to visit in 2024

Depending on where you live in the U.S. and how long you plan to travel abroad, your cross-pond jaunt might actually end up being cheaper than what you would pay for a comparable length of time in the States. And it will be vastly more memorable than a trip to Tampa.

Below is a short lineup of affordable international getaways, including approximate prices for shoulder season flights, possible accommodations, traditional meals, and activities.

• Round-trip flight : $749 JFK-PRN (March-April)
• Lodging (one night) : $13 shared dorm room ; $30 one-bedroom apt .
• Meal : $11 for lamb casserole + roasted veggies + beer + baklava at Tiffany

Once associated with its war-torn independence struggle, the tiny, partially-recognized state of Kosovo should really be known for its exceedingly warm people (even by Balkan standards), underrated food culture, and rock-bottom prices.

Kosovars are welcoming of all visitors, but they really roll out the red carpet for American tourists. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited into a Kosovar home for a marathon meal of highly-Instagramable dishes you’ve never heard of. The epic Skanderbeg steak — rolled meat and gooey cheese, breaded and then fried — is a must-try.

You can burn off the calorically-rich cuisine with a hike through the idyllic Rugova mountain range , which connects Kosovo to two of its stunningly beautiful and stunningly affordable neighbors, Montenegro and Albania.

The Americas

• Round-trip flight : $837 FLL-EZE (November)
• Lodging (one night) : $18 shared dorm room ; $23 entire apartment
• Meal : $25 for 14oz filet mignon + mashed potatoes + arugula salad + bread pudding at Parilla Cero 5

Argentina is a rare playground for both arts aficionados and nature enthusiasts. Melomaniacs will be left breathless by the opulent Teatro Colón , one of the world’s finest venues (if not the finest) for opera and symphonic music. Entrance to a Colón performance can cost as little as $5 to $6 — about 1/5 the price of a comparable ticket in New York or London. And between shows, you can take private tango lessons for a fraction of what you’d pay stateside.

Prefer to trek rather than tango your way through South America? Semi-affordable domestic flights take you into the hikers’ paradise Patagonia. But there are more cost-effective, environmentally-friendly buses that connect to the hinterland’s major jump-off cities, like Puerto Madryn and El Chaltén. An 18-hour bus ride might sound unbearable, but fully-reclining seats and a bottle of quality Malbec (≈ $2) will do wonders for your mood. And the penguins and glaciers galore are worth the schlep.

Note : In an effort to discourage cash use and limit inflation, Argentina has implemented a special, super-low exchange rate for purchases made with non-Argentinian credit cards. Basically, when you use a U.S. credit card in Argentina you get nearly twice the pesos you would normally nab when withdrawing cash from an ATM. And while it’s wise to carry at least some cash in less developed countries, credit cards are safer and more cost effective than repeated ATM trips (provided your card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees).

Read more: Best travel rewards credit cards

• Round-trip flight : $831 MIA-GIG (September)
• Lodging (one night) : $16 shared dorm room + breakfast ; $26 private floor of a home
• Meal : $15 for seafood stew + coconut banana rice + salad + cachaça cocktail at Yayá

Picture this: You’re walking along a white sand beach, sipping coconut juice (directly from a coconut, that costs about $1.50), humming the melody of “The Girl from Ipanema” when you meet the actual Girl from Ipanema (now in her 70s; still a knockout), and she invites you to an informal, free samba circle later that night.

This could totally happen to you in Brazil. Why? Because magical. things. happen. in. Brazil . And at very affordable prices.

Feeling spiritual? Take a train through Rio de Janeiro’s lush urban forest (about $18) up to the indescribably massive, 635-ton Christ the Redeemer statue. While JC might be the star, the mugging monkeys at his feet are an amusing sideshow.

Care to bathe in the rainbow shimmer-mist of Iguaçu Falls (aka ‘that makes Niagara look like my leaky bathroom faucet’)? It’s about $12.70 for park entrance . Or $80 for a jungle walk + boat ride to the base of the astonishing torrent.

Fancy a 5-day ferry down the Amazon all the way to the Atlantic Ocean? $155 for a contemplative, old-school Manaus to Belém cruise is a bargain.

• Round-trip flight : $732 JFK-AMM (February/March. But be mindful of Ramadan.)
• Lodging (one night) : $16 Bedouin desert tent (including meals) ; $33 studio apartment
• Meal : $11 for lamb kofta + tabbouleh + baba ghanoush at Alshinawi

Jordan is a gift to anyone who wants a spectacular vacation, in a short amount of time, at a low cost. The desert marvel offers a quartet of ‘musts,’ which are quite affordably priced given their bucket-listyness.

Petra. The ancient Nabatean kingdom is an open-air, sandstone museum with unforgettable temples, tomb-lined canyons, well-preserved mosaics, and an enormous amphitheater. About $80 for a two-day pass.

Wadi Rum. Like your deserts pretty in pink? A full-day, guided 4×4 tour through Earth’s closest approximation to Mars starts from $78 .

The Dead Sea. No need to work on your breaststroke before visiting the lowest point on earth, as the Dead Sea’s dense salinity allows you to effortlessly float. Free access from this beach .

The Red Sea. Paradise for anyone who loves coral reefs and colorful sea critters. $50 for a guided dive .

All of the above are within a three-hour drive of one another and will set you back about $200. More importantly: Camel sightings are complimentary, abundant, and unavoidable.

• Round-trip flight : $1,448 JFK-FRU (July)
• Lodging (one night) : $7 shared dorm room ; $23 private yurt + breakfast
• Meal : $16.50 for horse rib + smoked trout with radish salad + vodka at Frunze

Before there was glamping, there was yurting. Overnighting in a yurt — the traditional domicile of nomadic Central Asian sheepherders — is one of myriad charms awaiting those who visit entirely mountainous, serene Kyrgystan. It’s not exactly the most convenient travel destination airfare-wise, but as a Kyrgyzophile once explained to me: Convenience and adventure rarely intersect.

The jewel in the Kyrgyz crown is arguably Issyk-Kul lake and its surrounding wetland biosphere. Stepping onto the lake’s warm sandy beaches in the peak of summer, while staring at the inexplicably snowy Tengri Tagh (“Mountains of Heaven”) that envelope the lake, is pleasantly disorienting.

Can’t get to Central Asia until after summer passes? You’ll instead arrive in the fall/winter eagle hunting season, in which horse-mounted berkutchi hunters send their highly-trained Golden Eagles to retrieve rabbits, foxes, and even wolves.

• Round-trip flight : $1,076 JFK-TAS (April)
• Lodging (one night) : $12 shared dorm room + breakfast ; $18 private room + breakfast
• Meal : $9.50 for lamb plov + stuffed grape leaves + salad at Caravan

If Kyrgystan fulfills your need for pastoral bliss, Uzbekistan delivers on ancient urban unfamiliar. Its key Silk Road cities — Bukhara, Samarkand, and Khiva — are an architecture and/or history buff’s Disneyland, and are as enchanting today as they were when Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, and Marco Polo once trotted in.

Sightseeing in Uzbekistan can be cheap or cheaper. Entrance to Samarkand’s stunning Registan Ensemble (public square and three gorgeous madrasahs) is about $4 or so. A 5-hour, English-guided tour of Bukhara is a well-spent $30 and can be followed by a $25 sauna + skin scrub + massage at the historic Bozori Kord Hammam (traditional bathhouse). Cap the day off with Tajik green tea and a series of delectable sesame and pistachio confections at the Silk Road Tea House for $5.

• ​​Round-trip flight : $1,327 LAX-KUL (July/August)
• Lodging (one night) : $9 shared dorm room ; $32 for one-bedroom apartment
• Meal : $2.50 for a large bowl of braised duck meat noodle soup (koay teow th’ng) with fish balls and greens + chrysanthemum tea at Restaurant 113

Ever get the sense that you’re a little more food-curious/obsessed than your peers? Malaysians are your kind of people.

The majority of Malaysian millennials eat out at least every other day. And why not? Their food culture is diverse, unpretentious, and cheap cheap cheap.

A Southeast Asian grub odyssey should start in the colonial city George Town, which is widely considered Malaysia’s gastronomic capital, and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its mix of Malay, Han Chinese, Tamil, and European cultural influence.

Do some preliminary research at Wonderfood Museum ($8 entry fee), which introduces tourists to the breadth of Malaysian cuisine via plastic reproductions of various recipes. Once you’ve lost track of the number of dishes you plan to taste, take a 15-minute walk to a nearby food market, like Kimberley Street . Below are some of the definitive local treats to try there:

• Roti canai — pan-fried flatbread served with a variety of curries. Recently named the best street food in the world by Taste Atlas .
• Assam laksa — sour/spicy/sweet soup made with mackerel fish stock, tamarind, torch ginger, and noodles
• Char kway teow — fried flat rice noodles with shrimp, eggs, cockles, etc.
• Sate — skewers of succulent meat served with peanut sauce and chili paste
• Hainanese chicken rice — poached chicken and fragrant rice. Beware: It’s geopolitically sensitive .
• Cendol — refreshing dessert with shaved ice, coconut milk, green pandan jelly, and fruit
• Round-trip flight : $1,140 IAD-ACC (February)
• Lodging (one night) : $14 shared dorm room ; $20 private double room + breakfast
• Meal : $9 for vegan fufu soup + salad + pineapple crumble at Tatale

Ghana is an ideal starting point for anyone interested in West African culture. And the best part of your trip — chumming with Ghanaians — won’t cost a single cedi.

A good icebreaker for making Ghanaian friends is to learn and introduce yourself by your full day of the week name . Follow that up with an impromptu lesson in Ghana’s ‘snap’ handshake to fully endear yourself to your hosts. Hopefully, your new pals might be charmed enough to join you for a beach day at Kokrobite, which you can get to via tro-tro (shared taxi) for around $0.70.

Contemporary Ghana’s congenial, upbeat vibe must be contextualized with a sobering look at its history. A guided tour of Cape Coast Castle , which once imprisoned slaves before they were trafficked across the Atlantic, should be legally mandated for any American tourist in Africa. A bus from Accra to Cape Coast costs about $6, and entrance to the castle is $2.75.

Domestic travel fares to other can’t-miss parts of Ghana, like cultural capital Kumasi, are similarly low, even if you elect to fly rather than bus it. Just leave room in your return luggage for the kente cloth and Ashanti sandals you’ll find at the city-sized Kejetia Market.

• Round-trip flight : $1,369 JFK-WDA (May)
• Lodging (one night) : $17 shared dorm room ; $29 private double room
• Meal : $12.50 for grilled kingklip fish + baked potato + salad + local beer at The Fish Deli

Sparsely populated Namibia is a perfect alternative to more tourist-trodden national parks in the U.S., and it’s one of Africa’s best choices for group road trips and camping. You can rent a 4×4 with tents, bedding, cooking equipment, etc. from around $80 per day for a 3-week trip.

Namibia’s premier attraction is perhaps the Etosha salt pan and surrounding wildlife sanctuary , a fauna-fest of ostriches, honey badgers, and white rhinos, to name but a few standout species. From there you can head southwest toward Walvis Bay for flamingo and pelican-watching, along with a guided kayaking trip in waters teeming with surprisingly social seals (about $60 per person).

Shutterbugs can end the trip with a visit to the Namib Sand Sea , known for its surreal, 300-foot+ orange dunes (some of which are easily accessible by road) and dead-but-photogenic camel thorn trees.

• Round-trip flight : $1,670 IAD-LUN (September)
• Lodging (one night): $19 shared dorm room : $30 private room + breakfast
• Meal : $9.50 for goat stew + cassava porridge + house veggies + Zambian beer at Mpoto Yathu

Zambia is surprisingly under-traveled compared to regional household names like South Africa and Kenya. But what it lacks in PR it more than makes up for in unspoiled beauty.

With its key attractions spread out across an area larger than Texas, Zambia is best suited to journeys of three weeks or more. Start by visiting mile-wide, jaw-dropping Mosi-oa-Tunya (aka Victoria Falls) for a $20 entrance fee. After drying off you can take an overnight train ($8 for a sleeper cabin) to the capital city Lusaka. Renting a car from there allows you to unwind on the isolated southern beaches of Tanganyika, a lake so massive it feels more like a sea.

The trip is incomplete without a visit to ​​ South Luangwa National Park . It’s a dream safari in the dry season (July to October), when crowds of elephants, giraffes, and zebras forage along the banks of the Zambezi river’s tributaries, and are tracked by hungry lions and leopards. There’s a widespread misconception that the park is financially out of reach for budget travelers, but you can keep costs reasonable by selecting an affordable tour operator , for which all-inclusive packages (lodging, food, and excursions) start at $209 per day.

Cheapest countries to fly to

The countries highlighted in this article are affordable across a range of travel expenses, including grub, housing, sightseeing, and domestic transit. But they’re not always cheap to get to. And after factoring in airfare, some are only truly cost effective if you can stay for a few weeks or longer.

If you’re craving a foreign escape but you have a relatively short window of time to travel, you might want to zero in on destinations with low-cost airfare (which, for U.S.-based travelers typically = countries in Central America and the Caribbean).

Below are some of the cheapest countries to fly to from the three most popular U.S. airports. Approximate airfare prices are round trip.

ATL Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International

• Dominican Republic ≈ $170 in February/March via Frontier
• Mexico ≈ $175 in February/March via Frontier
• Jamaica ≈ $237 in May via Frontier

LAX Los Angeles International Airport

• Canada ≈ $104 in April via Flair
• Mexico ≈ $180 in February/March via Viva Aerobus
• Costa Rica ≈ $213 in August via Volaris

ORD Chicago O’Hare International Airport

• Mexico ≈ $218 in May via Volaris
• Canada ≈ $241 in April via American Airlines
• Colombia ≈ $383 in January via Spirit

Read more: Best booking sites for travel

How to choose your destination

The randomized ‘spin the globe and see where it stops’ method of decision-making does have its merits. But consider the below before you give Skyscanner your credit card deets.

Travel interests

Ever asked yourself, ‘Why all the wanderlust?’ We all want to get away for different reasons, and doing some preemptive soul-searching can help you better predict which countries you’ll truly vibe with.

Poland’s conveyor belt of medieval villages will captivate anyone who’s fond of cobblestone streets and Brick Gothic castles. But its conveyor belt of potatoes (followed by more potatoes) will bore insatiable chow-hounds, who should pay the extra airfare to get to a bonafide gastroparadise, like Malaysia.

Ease of domestic travel

Is there enough to do in one small region, or will you need to be mobile to feel satisfied with your trip?

Transit costs won’t be too much of a factor if you plan on confining your visit to one city — and there are some megacities where you can spend weeks without a moment of boredom (hello Istanbul). But trying to reach two far-flung locales within one ginormous country can bloat your budget, particularly if public transit options are limited.

And keep in mind that two comparably developed countries may have completely different levels of public transit access. India’s vast rail network makes it a haven for low-cost inter-city travel. But ask a Brazilian about trains from Rio to Salvador and expect a dumbfounded, ‘Hã?’

Medical care

If you have a history of medical issues, it shouldn’t categorically prevent you from traveling overseas. But it might influence your destination choice. Low cost of living/travel often correlates to limited health care infrastructure, though there are some exceptions (e.g., Portugal).

Uncle Sam’s input

Always check the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisories just before buying an international flight, and check again in the days leading up to your departure.

All of the countries featured in this article had Level 1 or 2 advisories at the time of publication. A number of places that otherwise would have featured on this list — like Nicaragua, Peru, or Egypt — were omitted due to an increased risk assessment.

If your planned destination is currently safe but historically prone to turmoil, consider booking refundable flights and lodging. And check that your travel insurance will cover an early return home in the event of an outbreak of violence or a natural disaster.

There’s nothing more economical than an open mind

It’s a bummer if you’re priced out of traveling in a fabulous yet exorbitantly expensive locale.

But there are nearly 200 different countries scattered around our shared rock today. And for every Switzerland and Singapore (or, for that matter, United States), remember that there’s an equally exciting and less wallet-crippling alternative waiting for you to visit.

About the author

Michael Dempster

Michael is a credit cards guru knowledgeable across the board in personal finance. He has on-and-off again contributed and edited for Money Under 30 over a number of years, sharing information on topics like travel.

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11 Cheap Places to Travel on the US Dollar

It’s never been easier to travel with almost no money . While “revenge travel” has driven up prices in the short term, those are already starting to drop back down to pre-COVID levels. And, with the spread of the sharing economy, plentiful cheap flights , and access to budget accommodation, getting away has never been more affordable.

If you’re an American, the strong dollar has made many places very cheap (or even cheaper) to visit. While that’s not great for other folks, it is good for us Americans, as we’re getting the best exchange rates we’ve had in years, and although absolute prices are up, you should really take advantage of this exchange rate to travel right now.

While there are lots of great destination options, I wanted to list a few of my favorites. These are places I think are the most interesting, fun, and easy to get to, and offer excellent value for your money. Here are 11 cheap places to travel on the US dollar:

Cheap Places to Travel on the US Dollar

Costa Rica Vietnam Romania India Argentina South Africa Cambodia South Korea Mexico United Kingdom Everywhere

• 1. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is my favorite Central American country. Though it’s one of the most expensive in the region, your money will still go far here. It also strikes a balance between budget-friendly and safe, while still offering plenty of amazing sights and activities.

In this magical place, there is a ton to see and do . You’ll find cloud forests, turtles, incredible surfing, volcanos, white-water rafting, fantastic nature preserves, deep-sea diving, and some of the happiest and nicest people around.

And on the budget travel side, you’ll only need about $50 USD per day, if you use hostels and buses and cook your own food; you’ll also be able to do a few budget activities, like snorkeling or hiking trips. As a bonus, flights from the US are also very cheap. If you’re flexible, you can find round-trips for under $300 USD.

On a mid-range budget of $100 USD per day, you can stay in an Airbnb, eat out more, enjoy a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities, like guided tours, surf lessons, and museum visits. In short, you won’t want for anything on this budget!

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to traveling Costa Rica !

Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in an already budget-friendly region. If you budgeted $25 USD per day, you would want for little. Hostels are just a few bucks a day, and you can get delicious street food for around $1 USD. (You can visit the country comfortably quite comfortably for $50-75 USD per day if you’re looking for more luxury.)

Be sure to spend some time in the hectic capital of Hanoi , and visit H? Long Bay when you’re in the north. In the south, don’t miss the C? Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City (used by the Viet Cong during the war with the US).

For some adventurous activities, like canyoning and cliff jumping, head to Da Lat. If you’re looking for beaches, Nha Trang and Mui Ne should be at the top of your list!

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to traveling Vietnam !

Not only is Romania an underrated destination in Europe, but it’s also a budget-friendly one. Bucharest is a modern, up-and-coming capital, and the entire Transylvania region is breathtaking. Bra?ov, my favorite city there, offers lots of history (including the infamous Bran Castle). Transportation is cheap, and both rideshares and hitchhiking are common. It’s a huge country, too so you can easily spend a few weeks and still just scratch the surface.

Backpackers can comfortably enjoy their time here for as little as $35-40 USD per day, which is a steal in Europe. And if you want to splurge and stay in hotels, eat out more, and enjoy a few drinks, you can easily do that for under $100 USD per day.

As more and more visitors come here to wait out their Schengen Area visa restrictions , it’s likely going to get more and more popular (and expensive), so try to visit while you can!

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to Romania !

While India has always been a cheap country, with the US dollar doing so well, it’s even cheaper! You can get by on as little as $20-30 USD per day — often less! Mouthwatering meals can be found for under $2 USD, and accommodation is just $5-10 USD per night, depending on where you are.

Even if you go for mid-range accommodation and food, you’ll be hard-pressed to spend more than $50 USD per day unless you’re staying at five-star resorts — and even they are quite affordable! While flights to India can be expensive, once you arrive, everything is a bargain.

Be sure not to miss the epic Taj Mahal, the laid-back beaches of Goa, the holy city of Varanasi, and sweeping metropolises like New Delhi and Mumbai.

• 5. Argentina

Argentina — filled with history, beautiful people, culture, wine, football, and outdoor wonders like Patagonia — is one of my favorite countries in South America. And its capital, Buenos Aires, is considered one of the liveliest cities in the world. (Most people speak English, which makes it easier to get around.) I’ve never drunk so much wine or eaten as much steak as I did here (which blew my budget — but it was worth it!).

The only problem is the rampant inflation, so prices are always in flux. But even with that, you can still get by on around $40-50 USD per day by staying in hostels and sticking to cheap and free activities, like museum visits, hiking, and free walking tours.

Patagonia is the main draw here, offering stunning landscapes and world-class hiking. Nature lovers will also want to visit Iguazú Falls, the largest waterfall system in the world! And while guided hikes cost upwards of $450 USD for a multiday trek, that’s still super cheap considering it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to Argentina !

• 6. South Africa

Safaris, wineries, mountains, and an endless coastline that is perfect for road trips — that’s South Africa. As a backpacker or budget traveler, this country is a great destination to visit, as there are a lot of work opportunities as well as plenty of adventurous activities (and some great hiking) to keep you busy.

While it’s true that South Africa struggles with corruption and petty crime, it has a booming tourism industry and a growing backpacker and digital nomad scene.

With $40-60 USD per day, you’ll be able to enjoy the amazing beaches and laid-back lifestyle that makes South Africa so appealing. While there are definitely cheaper places on the continent, you’ll get a lot of value here.

Don’t miss hiking up Table Mountain or visiting the penguins when you’re in Cape Town . And if you’re looking for a world-class safari experience, head to Kruger National Park!

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to South Africa !

• 7. Cambodia

Cambodia is one of my favorite countries in the world. The people are so incredibly welcoming, and even after a long absence between visits , I still found it to be one of the best destinations in Southeast Asia: affordable, friendly, and safe.

Prices have increased a little over the years, but not by much (it’s still cheaper than Thailand). Backpackers can easily get by for $40-50 USD or less per day. Street food is cheap and delicious (Phnom Penh is an amazing foodie city), and hostels cost under $10 USD per night. You can travel across much of the country via bus for $20 USD too.

Plus, Angkor Wat is one of the most amazing historical sites in the world (it’s $37 USD to enter). Be sure to  also visit the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh for a sobering look at the country’s violent past.

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to Cambodia !

• 8. South Korea

I don’t know why most people don’t talk about it, but if you want a cheap East Asian country with stunning countryside, South Korea is it. The country offers a lot of value!

When I went to South Korea a few years ago, I was stunned by how cheap everything was. Sure, it’s not as inexpensive as Southeast Asia , but compared to Japan or Europe, it’s quite affordable. With the South Korean won  at 1,372 KRW per USD and most everything costing only a few thousand won , I can’t imagine busting your budget here (unless you’re a huge foodie, because the cuisine here is delicious!).

My friend and I went out for Korean BBQ complete with drinks, and we each spent $8 USD. You can pick up bottles of beer at 7-11 for a couple of dollars. Hostels in Seoul start are just $15 USD per night (hotel rooms start at $30 USD per night). Backpackers can get by for only $50-60 USD here.

Be sure to indulge in Seoul’s culinary scene while you’re here, and visit the Gyeongbukgung Palace. For a more luxurious getaway, head to Jeju Island for beaches and some fun in the sun.

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to South Korea !

I confess I was late to the party on Mexico . While I had visited some of the touristy areas, it wasn’t until recently that I finally explored beyond the resorts. And I loved every minute.

Mexico City is a world-class metropolis with amazing food and nightlife, Oaxaca has incredible historic sites and an abundance of delicious eateries (and all the mezcal you can drink), and the Yucatán Peninsula is perfect for road trips and swimming in secluded cenotes (sinkholes).

While the country gets a bad rap in the US (thanks to overzealous media coverage), it’s actually much safer — and cheaper — than people think. Travelers can get by on as little as $50 USD per day ($80-120 USD if you want hotels and not hostels), and flights from the US are often just $200 USD round-trip.

In short, it’s a great option for US travelers who are short on time but still want to explore somewhere fun, sunny, and cheap.

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to Mexico !

• 10. The United Kingdom

In years past, the British pound (GBP) has been worth up to double the US dollar. That’s not the case anymore. Still struggling post-Brexit, it’s now worth just 20% more than the dollar, if that. So, while the UK isn’t exactly a cheap place to visit, the weakened pound and strong dollar mean that now you’ll get a lot more value compared to years past. Backpackers can get around for as little as $75 USD per day by sticking to hostels, free museums, and cheap pub food.

Learn more and plan your trip with my in-depth guide to England and Scotland !

• 11. Everywhere!

Right now, everywhere is “discounted” if you’re an American. The euro is at an all-time low against the US dollar and the pound is weak, as are the yen, Canadian, Australian, and New Zealand dollars, etc. etc. It’s an especially good time to travel to countries that are usually expensive, such as Iceland, Norway, Denmark, and New Zealand. Your dollars will go much further than in years past, so you should really take advantage of that opportunity because you don’t really know how long this will last!

***A strong US dollar makes traveling the world much cheaper than it would be otherwise — especially if you want to head to Europe and visit some “traditionally expensive” destinations. And while a strong dollar doesn’t mean “free,” it can definitely help you travel longer or in more luxury.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity while you can. Because who knows how long the strong dollar will last?

How to Travel the World on $50 a Day

My New York Times best-selling paperback guide to world travel will teach you how to master the art of travel so that you’ll get off the beaten path, save money, and have a deeper travel experience. It’s your A to Z planning guide that the BBC called the “bible for budget travelers.”

Click here to learn more and start reading it today!

• 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)

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.

The post 11 Cheap Places to Travel on the US Dollar appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site . Click here for more on travel.

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14 TOP cheapest countries to visit as a Worldpackers volunteer

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

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Mar 04, 2024

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

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

Read more articles about travel on a budget:

The 10 cheapest cities to live in the world

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

How to find cheap airfare anytime of year

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

14 Of the cheapest countries to visit

1. cambodia.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel to Vietnam and help in Worldpackers positions:

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

4. Indonesia

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

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

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

Travel to Indonesia and help in Worldpackers positions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel to Morocco with Worldpackers :

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

7. Nicaragua

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

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

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

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

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

8. El Salvador

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

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

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

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

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

9. Guatemala

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

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

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

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

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

10. Bolivia

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

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

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

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

11. Colombia

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

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

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

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

12. Bulgaria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Romania

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

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

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

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

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

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

Keep reading about  budget travel tips  with Worldpackers:

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

Join the community!

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

Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

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

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Write here your questions and greetings to the author

Aloyse Christian

Dec 27, 2022

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

Mar 27, 2023

May 01, 2023

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

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

hey good one

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Cheapest Countries to Visit Right Now

Home » Blog » Travel Tips » Cheapest Countries to Visit Right Now

We are always looking for ways to stretch our travel budget to the fullest. We put together this list of the cheapest countries to visit in every region of the world, including money-saving tips from our personal experience.

If you’re anything like us, your ever-growing travel bucket list may be putting a bit of pressure on your wallet. Luckily, the world is full of cheap places to travel that don’t require too much effort to get to.

There are budget-friendly destinations on every continent, and you can travel pretty much anywhere on a budget if you know the tips and tricks .

We’ve put together a list of the cheapest countries to visit on each continent (except for the expensive ones – sorry Australia and Antarctica!) where your dollar will go further. We even included money-saving tips for each country based on our personal experience.

Regions of the World

Jump to the section you are looking for, or just scroll down the page.

• North/Central America
• South America

Other contents:

• Finding cheap flights
• Budget tips for notoriously expensive places

Finding cheap airfare

Choosing a budget-friendly travel destination is smart if you’re looking to save money on travel. However, the costs below do not include airfare. So if budget is a big concern, you’ll want to use some of these handy tips for finding cheap flights:

• Sign up for newsletters to get notified about mistake fares and take advantage of a cheaper “accidental” price.
• Always compare prices on travel search engines such as  Skyscanner , Kayak and Expedia. But! If you can find the cheapest price there, it’s always best to book directly with the airline itself.
• Be flexible: Know when the best time to fly is, book self-transfer layovers to save, and compare prices to different airports in the area or region.

For more information, check out our in-depth guide on  how to find cheap flights using travel hacks .

Budget Destinations in Asia

Asia is the largest continent and home to some notoriously expensive places (like Japan !), but it’s also where you’ll find some of the cheapest countries to visit in the entire world! We’ve spent a lot of time living in and traveling through Asia and we’re here to tell you it can absolutely be done on a shoe-string budget!

Low cost of food and accommodation

Cambodia has it all. From turquoise waters on white sand beaches to a lush rainforest, ancient temples, a rich culture and warm, welcoming people. Despite a dark history, the spirit of Cambodian people has never been higher.

It’s location in Southeast Asia and reputation for affordability makes Cambodia a hot spot for backpackers and vacationers alike. Most people come here to visit the ancient temples of Angkor, which is an impressive sight (especially at sunrise!), but there is so much more to add to your  Cambodia itinerary .

Cost per day

• Backpacker budget:  $15 USD per day
• Mid-range budget:  $35 USD per day

Money-saving tip for Cambodia:  The currency in Cambodia is a mix of US dollars and local Riel. Vendors will try to overcharge foreigners by asking for USD, when the price in Riel would be a much lower equivalent. Try to avoid paying in USD by always asking for the price in Riel to save money.

Average costs (on a mid-range budget) 

• Local meal:  $2 – $4 USD
• Beer:  $2 – $5 USD
• Accommodation:  $12 – $25 USD/night
• Local Transportation:  $5.50 USD/day
• Regional Transportation:  $15 USD
• Entertainment:  $10 USD/day

Cheap things to do in Cambodia

• Spend the day at the beach with a good book: Free!
• Discover the best street food: $2 USD
• Browse a night market: Free!
• Hike to a waterfall: Free!
• Stroll the grounds of the Royal Palace Parks: Free!
• Take a tuk tuk around town for the day: $8 USD
• Visit the ancient temples of Angkor Wat: $37 USD

A relatively low currency and plenty of off-the-beaten-path options

From the bucket list wonder, the Taj Mahal, to the tropical backpacker’s party hub of Goa, India has a vast range of destinations for budget travelers. And with a relatively weak currency, the exchange rate makes traveling on a budget fairly easy for most foreigners.

But before you start planning your trip, keep in mind that  India is not for everyone . It can be a challenging place to visit for particular or inexperienced travelers.

• Backpacker budget: $10 USD per day
• Mid-range budget: $30 USD per day

Money-saving tip for India:  Opt out of AC. This may seem like a stretch for anyone who’s looked at the average temperatures in India and knows it can reach well over 100° F. However, if you are really trying to pinch your pennies, accommodation without AC can be as little as one-third to half the cost of rooms with an air conditioning unit.

• Local meal:  $2 – $3 USD
• Beer:  $1.50 USD
• Accommodation:  $16 – $31 USD/night
• Local Transportation:  $3.50 USD/day
• Regional Transportation:  $10 USD
• Entertainment:  $6 USD/day

Cheap things to do in India

• Stroll a local food market: Free!
• Visit the Taj Mahal : $15 USD
• Take a cooking class: $20 USD
• Party on the beach in Goa: Free!
• Get lost in the chaotic streets of Varanasi: Free!
• Gaze at the unique architecture in Mumbai: Free!

Plenty of free things to do and cheap accommodation

When people think of Indonesia, they usually immediately jump to Bali. Yes, the  tropical island of Bali  is a special kind of paradise with its Balinese Hindu culture and plethora of infinity-edged pools alongside ancient temples. And its cafe culture attracting  digital nomads  from around the world.

However, there is so much more to Indonesia from  world-class diving  to exploring unique natural wonders such as  active volcanos  to the hustle and bustle of the capital city of Jakarta. Where you decide to travel in Indonesia will have a significant impact on your budget. So if you are trying to save, stick to islands that are lesser known to tourists such as  Java  or  Flores .

• Backpacker budget: $20 USD per day
• Mid-range budget: $35 USD per day

Money-saving tip for Indonesia:  Stick to the off-season. Like most tourism destinations, accommodation prices shoot up during peak season. In Indonesia, this is over New Years and during the school holiday from June – August. If you want to save money on your accommodation costs, try booking during the off season instead.

• Local meal:  $4 USD
• Beer:  $2 USD
• Accommodation:  $25 – $50 USD/night
• Local Transportation:  $5 USD/day
• Regional Transportation:  $12

Cheap things to do in Indonesia

• Visit the monkey forest in Ubud: $6 USD
• Spend an afternoon on the beach: Free!
• Visit the  best temples in Yogyakarta : $25 USD
• Entrance to Komodo National Park: $11 USD
• Browse the street markets: Free!
• Take a yoga class: $10 USD

A bargainer’s market in the off season for accommodation prices

Nestled in the Himalayas, Nepal is best known as a destination for trekking. Especially those who want to summit the highest mountain in the world, or at least  tackle the multi-day trek to Everest Base Camp  like we did.

What this small nation lacks in size, it makes up for in adventure, culture, beauty, and warmth. This country has so much more to offer than just trekking. And it makes a fantastic budget destination for its affordable accommodation, meals, and relatively low currency exchange rates.

• Mid-range budget: $25 USD per day

Money-saving tip for Nepal:  Bargaining is part of the culture in Nepal and if you don’t take advantage of that, you will be paying a premium rate for everything from accommodation to souvenirs.

• Local meal:  $1 USD
• Beer:  $2.25 – $3.15 USD
• Accommodation:  $12 – $23 USD/night
• Local Transportation:  $2 USD/day
• Regional Transportation:  $5 USD
• Entertainment:  $8 USD/day

Cheap things to do in Nepal

• See the famous Buddhist Stupas: $2 USD
• Browse a local food market: Free!
• Go shopping for souvenirs: Free! (unless you buy something)
• Try a momo cooking class: $20 USD
• Go on a multi-day trek: $15 – $30 USD/day
• Check out one of Nepal’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites: $9 – $13 USD

South Korea

High-tech mecca with prices to rival those of Southeast Asia

You may be surprised to see a country known for their tech-boom on a list of budget destinations. But, here we are. Contrary to what you may think, it is possible to  travel on a budget in Korea . Take it from us…  we managed to save $22,000 in just one year while living in South Korea teaching English .

The exchange rate in South Korea makes everything more affordable than you would find in other Asian destinations like China and Japan. As long as you come with a solid plan and limit your unnecessary spending, you will be able to enjoy traveling in South Korea on a budget.

• Backpacker budget: $45 USD per day
• Mid-range budget: $120 USD per day

Money-saving tip for South Korea:  If you are excited about exploring South Korea on a budget, consider moving there to work as an English teacher for a period of time. You’ll get free accommodation (!!!) and the pay is better than most countries that hires ex-pats for the same job.

• Local meal:  $5 USD
• Beer:  $3.20 USD
• Accommodation:  $50 – $100 USD/night
• Local Transportation:  $4 USD per day
• Regional Transportation:  $14 USD
• Entertainment:  $10-$15 USD/day

Cheap things to do in South Korea

• Experience a noraebang (Karaoke room) with friends: ~$5 USD per person
• Eat fresh fish at a fish market: $15 USD
• Wander the beautiful Boseong Green Tea Fields: Free!
• See the cherry blossoms in bloom in April: Free!
• Treat yourself at a jjimjilbang (Korean spa): $12 USD
• Get a glimpse of North Korea at the DMZ: Free!

Plenty of free things to do and cheap street food

Thailand is probably the number one destination on every backpacker’s list and for good reason. Not only is the country warm and welcoming to foreigners — it’s known as the land of smiles after all — but it’s unparalleled beauty and cheap cost of travel make it a hot spot for travelers of all kinds.

• Backpacker budget: $25 USD per day
• Mid-range budget: $65 USD per day

Money-saving tip for Thailand:  Take out large sums from ATMs. Thailand runs on a mostly cash economy, so you’ll need to take out money from ATMs along the way. The ATM fees in Thailand can actually be quite steep (usually around 200 baht ~$6 USD) so it’s best to plan your expenses and take out large sums at once. Just be sure to leave the extra cash in a safe or hidden back at your accommodation.

• Local meal:  $1.50 USD
• Accommodation:  $32 – $63 USD/night
• Local Transportation:  $12 USD/day
• Regional Transportation:  $30 USD
• Entertainment:  $15 USD/day

Cheap things to do in Thailand

• Visit the famous Doi Suthep temple in Chiang Mai: $3 USD
• Browse the night markets: Free!
• Hike to one of the many island’s famous viewpoints: Free!
• Ferry between islands to explore: $9 USD
• Climb the Sticky Waterfall near Chiang Mai : $30 USD

The Philippines

Lots of cheap eats and natural wonders to explore for free

An island nation in southeast Asia straddling the Philippine and South China Seas, the Philippines has a lot to offer travelers. Even those on a tight budget! When we traveled there back in 2015, we were easily able to keep our  budget under $50 per day  for our 2-week vacation.

• Mid-range budget: $50 USD per day

Money-saving tip for the Philippines:  Since the Philippines is an island nation, getting from place to place can be tricky and may require many modes of transportation. This can make your transportation costs add up fast. In order to save money, we recommend booking flights early and having flexible dates. Our go-to for finding reasonable transportation in the region is  12goAsia .

• Beer:  $1 USD
• Accommodation:  $19 – $38 USD per night
• Local Transportation:  $16 USD/day
• Regional Transportation:  $53 USD
• Entertainment:  $13 USD/day

Cheap things to do in the Philippines

• Spend a relaxing day at the beach: Free!
• Enjoy a fresh mango smoothie: $2 USD
• Eat fresh seafood on the beach: $1.50 USD
• Hike to a viewpoint above Twin Beaches: Free!
• Go on an all day island hopping tour: $27 USD
• Rent a motorbike and explore the island for the day: $7 USD
• Catch an epic viewing of the sunset from the beach: Free!

Cheap street food, lots of backpacker accommodation and affordable transportation options

Vietnam offers a plethora of flavors, sounds, landscapes, and people. From urban cities to island-dotted bays, terraced rice fields to cavernous rock structures, there is no much to see and do is this country. Travelers on a budget love it because of the low cost. For as low as $20 per day, you can survive on a backpacker budget and travel around the country.

• Mid-range budget: $40 USD per day

Money-saving tip for Vietnam:  Traveling overland throughout the country can be pretty affordable in Vietnam. Just be sure to book your transportation ahead of time on a  trusted website  and sleep on overnight buses for long trips to save money on accommodation.

• Accommodation:  $20 – $40 USD per day
• Local Transportation:  $6 USD/day
• Regional Transportation:  $19 USD
• Entertainment:  $10 USD per day

Cheap things to do in Vietnam

• Take a walking tour of Hanoi: Free!
• See a traditional puppet show: $3-5 USD
• Visit the Saigon War Remnants Museum: $0.65 USD
• Do a junk boat cruise in Halong Bay: $40 USD (and up)
• Enjoy Vietnamese street food with a fresh brewed local beer: $2 USD

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Budget destinations in europe.

You may see dollar signs when you think of travel to Europe, especially for those countries operating on the Euro or the Pound, but not all European destinations will break the bank. There are a few hidden gems on this continent that are not only budget-friendly, but absolutely worth a visit for so many other reasons.

One of Europe’s cheapest and most under-rated destinations

Bulgaria took us by complete surprise when we first traveled there. We had no expectations whatsoever and the country really blew us away with it’s charm, beauty and adventure.

Easily one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe, you can travel in Bulgaria on a reasonable budget —especially compared with destinations in central and western Europe.

• Mid-range budget: $55 USD per day

Money-saving tip for Bulgaria:  Take public transportation. Nearly all of the highlights and attractions in this country can be visited via public transportation, which will save you loads instead of booking tourist transfers. The national railway system even offers discounts on return tickets, which makes day trips very affordable.

• Local meal:  $6 USD
• Beer:  $1.25 USD
• Accommodation:  $30 – $60 USD per night
• Local Transportation:  $11 USD per day
• Entertainment:  $9 USD per day

Cheap things to do in Bulgaria

• Take a walking tour of the city: Free!
• Do a food tour in Sofia: Free!
• Visit the historical site in Nebet Tepe Park in Plovdiv: $5 USD
• Marvel at the Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko: $4 USD
• Try Bulgaria’s version of a Shopska Salad: $4 USD

Affordable luxury on the Dalmatian Coast

If piercing turquoise seas and fairytale-like architecture is what you seek, then Croatia is the budget destination for you. While we found the country to be a bit… how can we put it delicately?… over-hyped. Let’s just say it didn’t impress t didn’t impress us as much as

Spanning most of the Adriatic Sea, you’re never too far away from the coast when traveling in Croatia. And even if it’s not pretty beaches you seek, stone castles and magnificent waterfalls await travelers of all kinds.

• Backpacker budget: $30 USD per day
• Mid-range budget: $75 USD per day

Money-saving tip for Croatia: Travel to Croatia during the off-season (winter months in the Northern Hemisphere) to get the best rates on accommodation and avoid crowds.

• Local meal:  $8 USD
• Beer:  $3 USD
• Accommodation:  $40 – $80 USD per night
• Local Transportation:  $7.75 USD per day
• Regional Transportation:  $20 USD

Cheap things to do in Croatia

• Rent a bike and explore Korčula: $16 USD
• Enjoy a picnic while watching the sunset over Dubrovnik: Free!
• Walk the Dubrovnik City Walls: $25 USD
• Explore the Old Town in Split: Free!
• Climb Marjan Hill for sunset: Free!
• Explore one of the famous national parks full of waterfalls: $30 USD

Cost of travel drops significantly outside of the capital city

Most people only go to Hungary to visit the capital city of Budapest. While Budapest is a super fun city (we liked it so much we came back a second time!), you will find lots of hidden gems outside of the capital. And prices decrease significantly as well!

The landscape, history, culture and cuisine here is definitely worth exploring. And can easily be done on a budget if you stick to local markets, public transportation and cheap accommodation.

Money-saving tip for Hungary:  Get the  Budapest Card . It’s a travel pass that allows for major discounts and deals on attractions around the city. Plus you get lots of stuff for free such as entrance to certain museums and the Lukács thermal baths. The pass can be purchased in 24-hour increments. The more days you get the pass for, the cheaper the daily rate.

• Local meal:  $7 USD
• Accommodation:  $35 – $70 USD per night
• Local Transportation:  $10 USD per day
• Regional Transportation:  $18 USD

Cheap things to do in Hungary

• Take a waking tour of the city: Free!
• Enjoy the lookout from Fisherman’s Bastions: Free!
• Have a drink at one of the famous ruin bars: $3 USD
• Take a dip in the Szechenyi Thermal Baths: $20 USD

Less touristy and more affordable than it’s northern neighbors

Montenegro may be a small country, but it isn’t lacking in things to do. From the medieval-style Bay of Kotor to the Dinaric mountains surrounding Zabljak, this country has a lot to offer budget travelers.

As an emerging tourist destination in the past few years, Montenegro’s popularity is growing. However, it’s still much less traversed than it’s northern neighbor, Croatia and prices of travel reflect the undersaturated market.

Money-saving tip for Montenegro:  Rent a car. Montenegro is a small and easily navigable destination. The cost of  renting a car  here is cheap and it’ll save you a lot of money on tourist transfers.

• Beer:  $2.25 USD
• Accommodation:  $25 – $55 USD per night
• Local Transportation:  $8 USD per day
• Regional Transportation:  $35 USD
• Entertainment:  $7 USD per day

Cheap things to do in Montenegro

• Climb up to the Kotor Fortress: Free!
• Spend a day at the beach in Perast: Free!
• Wander through the Old Town of Kotor: Free!
• Go for a hike in Žabljak: Free!
• Visit Black Lake and the Ice Caves: Free!

Rich culture and history, often overlooked by tourists

When we started traveling in Poland we had no expectations, but it ended up being one of our favorite countries in Europe. Poland’s deep history shows through in everyday life and it’s a place you can easily spend the day people watching while sipping a coffee at a street-side cafe.

Full of museums and historical sites that cost on average only about $5 USD to enter, Poland is easily one of the best budget destinations in Europe. It turns out there is so much nature to explore in Poland, delicious food to eat, and history to absorb.

• Mid-range budget: $60 USD per day

Money-saving tip for Poland:  Use bike sharing to get around in the cities. Public transportation is generally pretty affordable in Poland, but the cheapest (and most eco-friendly) mode of transportation is the bike sharing programs. In fact, most bike-sharing offers free rides for the first 20 minutes. So as long as you park every 20 minutes to explore, you could get away with a free ride for the day!

Check out our other  tips to travel more responsibly  on your next vacation!

• Accommodation:  $37 – $75 USD per night
• Local Transportation:  $5 USD per day

Cheap things to do in Poland

• Take a walking tour of Krakow: Free!
• Reflect in the Ghetto Heroes Square: Free!
• Tour Schindler’s Factory Museum: $6.60 USD
• Hike to Emerald Lake (aka Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy Lake): Free!
• Soak in the hot springs at Terma Bukowina: $8 USD

Eastern Europe’s best-kept secret for affordable travel

A popular misconception of this former Soviet-occupied nation is that it’s dangerous or full of ugly Soviet-era buildings. Trust us when we say this couldn’t be farther from the truth! (I mean… just look at the colors in that photo!)

With its charming medieval towns, ancient fortified churches, and the magnificent Carpathian mountain range, Romania has a lot to offer. And as one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe, we think its a must-see for travelers on a budget!

• Mid-range budget: $70 USD per day

Money-saving tip for Romania:  You can find cheap accommodation with Hostels and Airbnb in the cities, but in the country there is an even better option. You can  rent a private room in a local’s house . Staying in the countryside in a traditional home with picturesque scenery and warm hosts will cost you even less than a hostel dorm in the city.

• Accommodation:  $25 – $50 USD per night
• Local Transportation:  $18 USD per day
• Entertainment:  $8 USD per day

Cheap things to do in Romania

• Take a walking tour of Brasov: Free!
• Hike up to the Tampa Mountain viewpoint to see the Brasov sign: Free!
• Tour the Peleș Castle: $9 USD
• Rent bicycles to explore the countryside: $3.50 USD
• Visit the museums in Bucharest: $3 – $5 USD

A weaker currency means you get more bang for your buck

Turkey is a fascinating travel destination that is easy to fall in love with. On our first visit, we planned to stay just a week and wound up there for nearly one month. And we still cannot wait to return for more exploring one day!

The Turkish Lyra has not been at it strongest in recent times and this means travelers coming from nations with stronger currencies (USD, Euro, etc.) have an advantage. Plus there are tons and  free and cheap things to do in Istanbul , Turkey’s capital and largest city.

• Backpacker budget: $15 USD per day

Money-saving tip for Turkey:  Travel during shoulder seasons (April – May & October) to save money on accommodation. Hotel prices spike during peak travel from June – September and can add a lot to your travel costs in Turkey.

• Accommodation:  $15 – $30 USD per day
• Local Transportation:  $1.50 USD per day
• Regional Transportation:  $8 USD

Cheap things to do in Turkey

• Go on a walking tour of Istanbul: Free!
• Cruise the Bosphorus by ferry: $4 USD
• Catch the sunset on Galata Bridge: Free!
• Try some amazing local street food: $4 USD
• Witness a Whirling Dervish Ceremony: $12 USD

Budget Destinations in North & Central America

If you haven’t given Central America much thought until now, it’s time to think again. Your money goes far in this region of the world and we’d highly recommend traveling here to anyone looking for a bit of an adventure.

Don’t overlook North America either. While the US can be expensive to travel around, there are ways to cut down on costs ( road trip anyone!?) and Mexico is always a great bet to find more bang for your buck.

The Central American hub for backpackers and surfers

Probably the most popular and well-traveled destination among backpackers in Central America, Costa Rica is easily the most expensive country in the region. But… that doesn’t mean you should cross it off your cheapest places to travel list.

The exchange rate for foreign currency makes it possible to travel on a budget here without skimping on the necessities. And with the jaw-dropping landscapes, friendly locals and  epic adventures to be had , you are not going to want to miss this Central American hot spot!

Money-saving tip for Costa Rica:  Skip the tours and rent a car instead. You’ll find that driving in Costa Rica is actually quite easy and comfortable. With so many places to explore from waterfalls to volcanos, jungles and beaches, you’ll save a lot of money not paying for over priced tours and driving yourself instead.

We’ve put together a comprehensive  guide to renting a car in Costa Rica  that’ll walk you through everything you need to know so you don’t have to spend hours trying to find answers with Google.

• Beer:  $2.50 USD

Cheap things to do in Costa Rica

• Soak in natural hot springs: Free!
• Spend the day surfing and catch some waves: $10- $15 USD per day
• Go chasing (hiking) waterfalls: Free!
• Hike the Arenal Volcano: Free!
• Take a walk on Whale Tale Beach: $6 USD

A Central American gem at half the cost of Costa Rica

Known as Central America’s Mayan heart, you will find yourself enchanted by the beauty that Guatemala has to offer. While Costa Rica may be the region’s better known hot spot, Guatemala is made that much better because it feels a lot less touristy… and at half the cost of it’s southern neighbor (a few “doors” down), who can complain!

There are dozens of historical sites found in this country. With its rich Mayan heritage, indigenous culture, and colonial charm, we dare you not to fall in love with this welcoming and adventure-filled country.

Money-saving tip for Guatemala:  Take the chicken buses… We know what you’re thinking: Wait, back up, did they just say “chicken buses”? Yes we did! Keep reading…

Chicken buses are what the locals use to get around Guatemala. They are brightly painted American school buses that can been converted for local transportation. The buses earned the nickname “chicken bus” because locals bring everything on board—from machinery parts to giant bags of produce to, you guessed it—chickens!

There are no set stops, nor is there a price list. Simply tell the driver your destination when entering the bus. Then find a seat or a place to stand. Someone will come around to collect the fare, and the amount will be based on your final destination. But don’t worry, it is much cheaper than a shuttle bus or private coach!

• Beer:  $1.60 USD
• Accommodation:  $12 – $25 USD per night
• Entertainment:  $20 USD per day

Cheap things to do in Guatemala

• Go handicraft shopping at a local market: Free!
• Watch Volcan Fuego erupt: Free!
• Hike to Indian Nose viewpoint above Lake Atitlan: Free!
• Visit the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey: $7 USD
• Go on a self-guided ruins tour of Antigua: Free!
• Explore the Mayan ruins of Tikal: $20 USD

Hidden gem of Central America with more affordable options than it’s neighbors

The hidden gem of Central America, Honduras is often skipped by most tourists. However, you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t at least consider traveling to this beautiful and diverse country. Compared to it’s more popular neighbors, Honduras is considerably cheap. And affordable travel here is relatively easy to do.

• Backpacker budget: $12 USD per day

Money-saving tip for Honduras:  Check your bill. A lot of restaurants in Honduras will add a service charge to your bill, so make sure you are not double-tipping. Also, paying in cash will save you as credit card charges often cost an extra 3-5% processing fee.

• Accommodation:  $8 – $15 USD per night

Cheap things to do in Honduras

• Jump off the pier and go swimming in the ocean: Free!
• Participate in a beach clean up: Free!
• Hike to waterfalls in the jungle: Free!
• Go kayaking on Lake Yojoa: $10 USD
• Explore the Los Naranjos Eco Park: $6 USD

An exchange rate that makes cultural & adventurous experiences affordable

Newsflash:  There is more to Mexico than beaches ! While the beaches here are top notch, avoiding the tourist-heavy resort towns is the best way to save money while traveling in Mexico. And you might just find the “real” Mexico is much more enjoyable!

The food, the culture, the energy of the Mexican people— it’s intoxicating and you won’t want to miss this experience by spending your time at an all-inclusive resort. Plus, due to the value of the Mexican Peso, you can get more value for your money than you could 5 years ago.

Money-saving tip for Mexico:  Use public transportation! If there is one thing that will cost you necessary money in Mexico it is paying for over-priced taxis. Instead opt for colectivos (Mexico’s version of a shared taxi van) or buses for longer distances.

The ADO bus company is a first-class bus system that connects cities throughout the country. Their buses are comfortable and air conditioned, affordable, and best of all safe for travelers. We have a complete guide to traveling around Mexico by ADO bus .

• Accommodation:  $20 – $40 USD per night
• Entertainment:  $12 USD per day

Cheap things to do in Mexico

• Explore ancient Mayan ruins like Chitchen Itza: $13 USD
• Go hiking in the Sierra Norte Mountains: Free!
• Jump off a cliff into a cenote: Free!
• Catch a  Lucha Libre wrestling match : $9 USD
• Sample traditional Mexican cuisine in a food market: $4 USD

Southwestern U.S.A. (road trip)

Road tripping the wild West is a great way to cut down on costs

The US isn’t exactly known as one of the cheapest countries to visit, especially when compared to many of the other places on this list. However, doing a road trip can seriously cut down on your daily costs. Coupled with the fact that the American southwest is absolutely filled with spectacular scenery and incredible natural wonders, it makes the perfect place for a budget vacation.

Related:   How to Plan an Epic USA Road Trip

• Backpacker budget: $85 USD per day
• Mid-range budget: $150 USD per day

Money-saving tip for road tripping the southwestern US:  Look into getting the  America the Beautiful National Park Pass  if you plan to stop at more than one of nationals parks along the way. (And believe me – you’ll want to stop at them all!) The southwestern United States is full of breathtaking national parks and having the pass will allow you to enter all of them with a full car of people at no extra cost.

Related:   Money Saving Tips for a Cheap Road Trip Across the US

• Local meal:  $9 USD
• Hotels: $80 – $120 USD per night
• Campervan rental: $40 – $140 USD per night
• Camping: Free – $50 USD per night
• Car rental:$20 – $50 per day
• Gas costs: $20 – $30 USD per day
• Entertainment:  $0 – $20 USD per day

Cheap things to do in the western United States

• Visit Horseshoe Bend lookout: Free!
• Drive through Monument Valley: Free!
• Entrance to  Arches National Park : $30 USD per vehicle
• Tour Antelope Canyon: $25 USD
• Snap a photo in front of the classic Las Vegas sign: Free!

Related:  Get inspiration for your next road trip with our list of  Best USA Road Trips .

Budget Destinations in South America

We think South America is one of the best places in the world for ultra-budget travelers. It was the location of our first ever long-term backpacking adventure and the birth place of this very blog you are reading.

This enchanting region is filled with incredible nature, scenic landscapes, and welcoming people. And best of all, most of it can be experienced on the cheap!

South America’s most affordable destination

As one of the least developed nations in South America, Bolivia is not only one of the cheapest countries to visit in South America, but it is bursting with untouched natural beauty to be discovered.

If you’re an adventurous traveler, you will find plenty to do here from Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest lake, to the other-worldly salt flats of  Salar de Uyuni  to  pedaling down the most dangerous road in the world .

Money-saving tip for Bolivia:  Don’t pay the sales tax. When checking out at a cash register, the clerk will usually ask you, “Con factura o sin factura?”, meaning “with tax or without” (this is sometimes displayed on the credit card machine as an option as well). Always opt for “sin factura” which allows the vendor to eliminate the sales tax and lower the price to you. With sales tax at a whopping 13% this common work-around will save you money here and there.

• Local meal:  $3 USD
• Accommodation:  $8 – $16 USD per night
• Local Transportation:  $2.25 USD per day
• Entertainment:  $15 USD per day

Cheap things to do in Bolivia

• Take the teleférico for a tour of La Paz from above: $0.50 USD
• Visit the Witch Market in La Paz: Free!
• See the sunset from Valley of the Moon: Free!
• Visit the Train Cemetery outside Uyuni: Free!

No more narcos, just beautiful colonial cities, white sand beaches and cheap, delicious eats

Gone are the days when Colombia was considered a dangerous place for travelers. Ask any traveler who’s been there in the past decade and they’ll tell you that Colombia is a warm and welcoming budget-friendly destination.

From the coast to the mountains, Colombia has something for every kind of traveler. Home to a whopping 10% of the world’s biodiversity, Colombia is a country that should not be missed by travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

Money-saving tip for Colombia:  Uber it! If you’re in any of Colombia’s major cities, you’ll find that Uber is readily available. Because the ride-sharing app is generally cheaper and safer than taking a local cab, its a good way to save a few bucks here and there.

• Accommodation:  $10 – $20 USD per night
• Local Transportation:  $3.50 USD per day

Cheap things to do in Colombia

• Hike Pico de Loro in Cali: Free!
• Get a mud bath in Volcan del Totumo: $13 USD
• Explore the streets of the Old City in Cartagena: Free!
• Hike to Monserrate Church in Bogata: Free!
• Rent bikes to explore the city: $20 USD

Lots of free things to do and cheap adventures to be had

This small but diverse country has so much to offer from the enchanting Galapagos islands, to the mountains, colonial cities, and surfing beaches. While a trip to the Galapagos may not exactly be cheap, we proved you can even do the  Galapagos Islands on a budget  if you plan right. Traveling elsewhere in Ecuador is actually quite affordable

• Local meal:  $3.50 USD
• Accommodation:  $15 – $30 USD per night

Cheap things to do in Ecuador

• Browse a local market: Free!
• Spend the day soaking up the sun at the beach: Free!
• Swing at the edge of the world: Free!
• Go hiking in the Andes Mountain Range: Free!
• Take a dip in a thermal bath in Baños: $1.50 USD

Affordable adventure for every type of traveler

Peru is one of the most popular countries in South America. With all the delicious cuisine, local culture, and beautiful natural landscapes, there is so much more to this country than  Machu Picchu  – although it is pretty spectacular! Traveling on a budget here is not hard to accomplish as you can see by the crowds of backpackers that make their way through the country every year.

• Mid-range budget: $45 USD per day

Money-saving tip for Peru:  Eat like a local. Eating our at restaurants in Peru, especially in hot spots like Lima and Cusco can get pretty expensive. Instead, do as the locals do and eat at local markets or cook for yourself.

Cheap things to do in Peru

• Marvel at the Huaca Pucllana ruins: $5 USD
• Rent a bike and cycle around Barranco: $15 USD
• Hike to a viewpoint above Cusco: Free!
• Try a pisco sour: $4 USD

Budget Destinations in Africa

With expensive tour packages and luxury safari resorts, Africa is not exactly known as a budget-friendly travel destination. However, if you plan your trip right and forego the tours and resort stays, you can travel many countries on this continent at a fraction of the tour prices. Below are some of our favorite budget destinations on the continent of Africa.

A country welcoming tourism with lots of affordable things to do

A prime example of ancient meets modern, Ethiopia is full of unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else in Africa. The capital city of Addis Ababa is the fourth-largest city in Africa and home to some of the country’s best museums and traditional food.

You will not find safaris here — the reason to come to Ethiopia is to experience the mix of modern and ancient culture and see the geographic wonders and historic landmarks that cover the land.

• Local Transportation:  $3 USD per day

Cheap things to do in Ethiopia

• Go camping in Simien Mountains National Park: $10 USD
• Visit one of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites: Free!
• Tour the Lake Tana monasteries: $30 USD
• Hike through Bale Mountains National Park: $3 USD

A Northern African wonderland, just a stone’s throw from Europe

With its proximity to Europe and its reputation as the most stable country in northern Africa, Morocco has become a popular tourist destination for travelers of all kinds in recent years.

There is a small but growing network of backpacker hostels in the country and regional transportation is incredibly cheap. As long as you manage to steer clear of the shop owners trying to to push rugs and handicrafts on you, you can reasonably expect to spend a lot less than in Morocco’s northern European neighboring countries.

Money-saving tip for Morocco:  Haggle or bargain with shop owners and taxi drivers. It is expected as part of the culture and reasonable to pay 50% less than what they initially ask for.

• Accommodation:  $20 – $45 USD per night
• Regional Transportation:  $11 USD
• Entertainment:  $6 USD per day

Cheap things to do in Morocco

• Browse the local souks: Free!
• Get lost in the maze of the medina of a city: Free!
• Stroll through Jardin Majorelle: $8 USD
• Marvel at the beautifully designed mosques at sunset: Free!
• Try a local tagine: $50
• Get a scrub down at a hammam: $25 USD

Forgo luxury tours for a road trip and camping under the stars to make this a budget-friendly destination

Home to some of the world’s most surreal landscapes — the Skeleton Coast, Deadvlei and Sossusvlei to name a few — Namibia is a country that should be on everyone’s Africa bucket list. While it’s not known for being particularly cheap, there are ways to make traveling in Namibia super affordable.

Tours in this country can cost a pretty penny, but renting a car and doing a road trip is a great way to keep your travel budget down. Plus, it is the best way to see all the highlights around this vast country. And believe us when we say, there are tons of  things in do in Namibia  you won’t want to miss!

Money-saving tip for Namibia:  Opt for camping instead of lodges. Accommodation is going to be one of your biggest expenses in this country, but you can seriously cut those costs if you rent camping equipment and sleep outdoors.

• Accommodation:  $20 – $35 USD per night
• Entertainment:  $100 per day

Cheap things to do in Namibia

• Do a self-drive safari in Etosha National Park: $6 USD per adult
• Shop for souvenirs at the street market in Swakopmund: Free!
• Climb to the top of Dune 7: Free!
• Drive the Skeleton Coast highway: Free!

South Africa

A low exchange rate with plenty of free outdoor adventures

South Africa has so much more to offer travelers than high end luxury safaris. From Cape Town to Jo’burg, the Garden Route and Kruger National Park, there is endless adventures to be had in this diverse landscape. And with a relatively low exchange rate for foreign currency, you can make your way around this country with a pretty cheap daily budget.

Money-saving tip for South Africa:  Cook for yourself. Eating out at restaurants can add up fast. Especially in the big cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town. Save money by booking accommodation with a kitchen ( Airbnb  is our go to!) and buying your food at grocery stores.

• Accommodation:  $40 – $80 per night

Cheap things to do in South Africa

• Hike Lion’s Head for sunrise: Free!
• Ride the Table Mountain Cable Car: $20 USD
• Swim with the penguins at Boulders Beach: Free!
• Browse a Sunday market in Johannesburg: Free!
• Road trip the Garden Route: $60 USD per day

The most affordable destination in Africa!

According to the 2019 Backpacker Index, the tropical island of Zanzibar, Tanzania is the cheapest destination to travel to in all of Africa. Nicknamed the “Spice Islands” the archipelago in the Indian Ocean offers a mixture of both African and Indian cultures, white sand beaches, and world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities.

Money-saving tip for Zanzibar:  Being an island destination, one of your biggest costs will be getting here. Save money on flights by traveling during the off-season and following our  steps to finding cheap airfare .

Cheap things to do in Zanzibar

• Soak in the culture while wandering through Stone Town: Free!
• Visit the National Museum of Culture & History: $6 USD
• Pay your respects at the Slave Museum: $5 USD
• Spend a day at the beach: Free!
• Try a local dish at Forodhani Market: $4 USD
• Explore the Jozani Forest: Free!

Got champagne taste on a beer budget?

If you’re like us, you’ll want to see  all  of the world’s most exciting destinations and not just the cheapest places to travel. We’ve traveled to some of the most expensive places in the world and have seen them on a budget.

Lucky for you we’ve created articles full of advice and tips for traveling on a budget in some of the world’s most popular destinations that aren’t exactly known for being cheap.

• Galapagos:  If soaking up sunshine and frolicking with sea lions seems like a dream to you, you’re in luck! We’re going to share our best tips for  traveling the Galápagos Islands on a budget  because we believe it’s a place that not only the rich should experience.
• Iceland:  We’ve put together some of the  best money-saving hacks that helped us keep our costs down in Iceland . We’re sharing them with you so that you can follow in our footsteps and visit this beautiful country on a budget!
• Japan:  Yes, Japan is an expensive country to travel in, especially when compared to it’s neighboring countries in Asia. However, it is totally possible to  travel in Japan on a budget  and we’re here to show you exactly how to do that.
• Las Vegas:  A city known for its opulence and excess, you might be surprised to find out that you don’t need to have a high-roller budget to have one hell of a time in Sin City. Find out  how to travel in Vegas without spending all of your cash .
• New York City:  NYC is notoriously expensive, but that doesn’t mean you can’t stick to a budget. There are plenty of free things to do and other ways you can  save money during your NYC trip  so you don’t come home from vacation completely broke!
• New Zealand:  Traveling in New Zealand is not cheap. But don’t let that ruin your dreams of visiting this absolutely epic country. Just because it’s not as cheap as backpacking through Southeast Asia doesn’t mean you can’t  travel to New Zealand on a budget .

You may also like…

• Ultimate Guide to Traveling on a Budget
• How to Save Money to Travel the World
• How We Afford to Travel (and You Can Too!)
• Our Favorite Money-Saving Travel Resources and Tips

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Have you been to any of the destinations on our Cheapest Places to Travel list? Do you think there are any places we’ve left off the list that you’d recommend? Comment below and let us know!

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Great list! Budget travelers will appreciate these affordable destinations for their next adventure.

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Cheapest countries to visit if you’re from the US

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The growing value of the USD in recent months is a boon to the American traveller, who will get more bang for their buck overseas despite surging inflation at home.

The idea of a strong dollar might be strange as Americans suffer rising inflation and fuel prices. Still, the Dollar has become more valuable abroad as demand for the USD has skyrocketed amid concerns of global recession caused by high inflation, war and lingering COVID-19 supply shocks.

While the US is not immune from these threats, the economy has held up far stronger than other nations, helping the USD retain much of its value even as other currencies rapidly devalued.

If you’re from the US, here’s a list of travel destinations that will make your USD stretch a bit further, so you can use foreign exchange rates in your favour to enjoy an affordable vacation:

The country is dealing with a stagnating economy and, as a result, goods and services are far less expensive than those elsewhere.

If you’re looking for a Mediterranean getaway, Portugal’s views are just as beautiful as those in neighbouring countries, but far more affordable. To save even more, book your vacation during the spring or autumn when there’s less demand.

Spain is a safe bet for thrift US travellers looking to make their money last. This beautiful country is a great vacation spot for people who want good value.

Spain is one of the sunniest countries in Europe and is famous for its weather, wine and food – all of which are now more affordable than ever! Spain also has good public transport and accommodation, making planning your trip much easier.

South Africa

South Africa is an affordable travel destination which offers great beaches, lagoons, safari, and interesting cities. The country is also famous for its vineyards and wineries that produce great quality wines exported worldwide.

From a luxury safari in Kruger National Park, to an urban getaway in Cape Town, South Africa can cater to every budget. The strong USD, combined with the already favourable exchange rate, can also make more luxurious options like 5-star camping, week-long safaris and fancy hotels a practical option for US travellers!

Often considered ‘Africa’s best-kept secret,’ Zambia is quickly building their tourism network.

Livingstone park in Zambia is a must-visit for any adventure sports enthusiasts. Located just 11 kilometres from Victoria Falls, it’s the place to go for wild river rafting, bungee jumping and Devil’s Pool – a natural infinity pool perched on the edge of the falls, with a view of the 100-metre drop.

Meanwhile, Lake Kariba is another of Zambia’s top holiday spots. It offers a range of watersports, nature trails, luxury hotels and picturesque beaches.

Vietnam is an immediately recognizable tourist destination. The country attracted an estimated 484 thousand visitors in October 2022 alone.

Yet, unlike many popular tourist countries, Vietnam remains highly affordable. If you want to stretch your US Dollar in a country with a robust tourism network, you will not find a better country than Vietnam!

It has friendly locals, impeccable cuisine, abundant sightseeing opportunities, and great weather. Best of all, the Backpacker Index lists Hanoi as the most affordable city to visit in Asia this year.

Thailand has always held a reputation as an affordable travel destination. Thanks to recent economic developments, US travellers can enjoy a week-long vacation here at a fraction of the cost of visiting more expensive destinations in the EU or UK.

While in the capital city, don’t miss the Grand Palace. If you’re travelling around the southern tip of the country, the island of Phuket, nicknamed the Pearl of the Andaman, is known for its sunny beaches.

Phuket has been rebuilt after the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami and is a bustling international tourist destination. With its cheap food options, Phuket is affordable for travellers seeking a taste of authentic daily Thai life.

Philippines

An archipelago in Southeast Asia that includes more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines’ top attractions include beaches, volcanoes and wildlife.

The capital city of Manila is also a regular stop for international tourists, particularly its old walled city of Intramuros, which features museums, restaurants, and shops, as well as the Manila Cathedral and Fort Santiago.

Beach lovers are also in luck, the Philippines’ small islands are known for having some of the finest beaches in the world, as well as crystal clear waters.

In South America

Columbia is experiencing a significant resurgence among trendsetting international travellers. Particularly those from the US where the Dollar’s exchange rate can take you quite far.

With its Caribbean beaches, Amazon rainforest, Andes mountain range, and desert plains, the activity and adventure options are numerous.

Colombia’s second-largest city, Medellin, is a lovely place to walk around at your leisure while exploring the plazas, museums, and colourful street graffiti.

The walled city of Cartagena is another popular choice. Constructed during the 16th century to protect the Caribbean coast city from pirates at the time, the wall still stands to this day.

Argentina gives US vacationers dozens of exciting activities, with great weather and affordable prices.

The Los Glaciares National Park, which straddles the border with Chile, has been an official World Heritage Site since 1981.

Further south is Patagonia Tierra del Fuego National Park, the oldest national park in Argentina.

For visitors seeking more, Argentina’s capital Buenos Aires offers excellent art museums, including the National Museum of Fine Arts.

In the Middle-East

Israel is another destination to keep in mind when considering the value of the Dollar.

This country is home to some of the world’s most famous religious sites.

Jerusalem alone is packed with religious significance and is where you will find the Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock, as well as an old district filled with other notable religious sites.

Israel offers history alongside many modern comforts, all at affordable prices if you use the strength of the USD to your advantage.

Find the best deal by comparing foreign exchange companies and be sure to benefit from the best rates!

Matthew Swaile

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10 Destinations Under $50 A Day

We all want to travel more. A vacation, career break, gap year trip — while our travel desires and destinations might be different, everybody wants to travel more.

But no matter what kind of trip you want to take, chances are you are going to encounter one of the inevitable obstacles when it comes to travel: money.

Saving money to travel can be an uphill battle, and with so many expensive destinations out there — not to mention the added cost of things like travel insurance, buying the right gear, finding a flight, etc. — it can sometimes feel impossible.

Even if you’re fortunate enough to find a cheap flight , the daily cost of exploring a new country can often be prohibitive.

Fortunately, there are plenty of amazing places to visit that are still quite affordable. In fact, many of them are actually cheaper than day-to-day life back home!

And, while there are dozens upon dozens of inexpensive countries to choose from, in this post, I am going to share my favorite inexpensive countries and regions in the world that I think are the best!

Table of Contents

• Central America

1. Thailand

Outside of a few of the popular tourist islands, it’s easy to live on less than $35 USD per day. Budget dorms cost $10 USD per night or less, you can eat on less than $10 USD per day if you stick to street food, drinks are just a couple bucks, and tours and activities don’t cost much more than $10 USD.

And, while the islands are more expensive than the mainland, it’s definitely still possible to visit them for under $50 USD per day as long as you travel slow (ferry costs add up) and avoid visiting during the busy Full Moon Party .

Most people go overboard on partying and alcohol here, however, if you stick to happy hours and buy your beer at convenience stores like 7-Eleven you’ll be able to have fun for a fraction of the cost.

For more information, check out my guide to visiting Thailand !  

And I was blown away.

Mayan ruins, stunning beaches, lush jungles, world-class food, picturesque cenotes — Mexico has it all. Binge on delicious tacos, tostadas, tamales, sopas, seafood, and mole (not to mention to ever-popular mezcal).

Hostels cost as little as $10 USD per night, street tacos are $1 USD or less, beer is around $1-2 USD, and even big-ticket activities like the Tulum ruins or Chichen Itza are just $5-15 USD.

Whether you’re exploring the Yucatan or relaxing in my favorite city, Oaxaca , Mexico has a ton to offer on a budget.

For more information, check out my guide to visiting Mexico !  

3. Portugal

Yet the country is still super affordable. You can get by here for around $50 USD per day without missing out on the amazing food, fun activities, and delicious wine that call Portugal home.

Hostels cost as little as $15 USD while snacks and fresh baked goods are just $2-5 USD. Beer is only 3 EUR, making it a fun place to relax and enjoy the nightlife.

While prices are a bit higher in popular Lisbon , you can easily offset that by visiting in the shoulder season. And if you’re in Europe in the winter, prices are even lower here during that time. While it won’t be super hot and sunny, Portugal is one of the warmest places on the continent from December-March, making it a fun and affordable place to visit in the winter.  

4. Central America

In countries like El Salvador , Honduras , Nicaragua , and Guatemala you’ll find the best deals, with budget hotels costing around $15 USD, meals for $3-4 USD, bus journeys for the same price, and beer for less than a dollar.

In the “expensive” countries in the region ( Belize , Panama , Costa Rica ), you’ll be spending closer to $50 USD per day, though you won’t be wanting for anything as street food costs under $5 USD and hostel dorms are $8-12 USD.

So, while “expensive” for the region, it’s still super easy to get by here on a budget without missing out on the amazing food and fun activities.

For more information, check out my guide to visiting Central America !  

Hostels in Budapest start at $10 USD per night. Meals at the markets or at the plethora of kebab and sandwich shops are around $5-10 USD. Trains and buses were just a few dollars while a beer is less than $2 USD.

Unless you are going out for a big night of drinking or paying for lots of attractions and activities, $30-40 USD will give you plenty of room to enjoy the sites and sounds of Budapest. Budapest is a great alternative to more popular destinations like Prague or Vienna , offering just as much fun for a fraction of the cost.

Just don’t miss the ruin bars while you’re here!

For more information, check out our guide to visiting Hungary !  

While hiking the Inca Trail will definitely burst your budget, everyday life in Peru is quite affordable. Hostels can be found for $8-12 USD while street found is available for $1-2 USD.

Unless you’re going to do tons of activities (there are all kinds of epic hikes and tours here, including Colca Canyon and the Choquequirao trek), it will be easy here to enjoy Peru for under $50 USD.

And if you do want to do some guided hikes but don’t have the money, try to book last minute. You can usually find amazing deals — including deals for hikes like the Inca Trail. While you might end up spending more than $50 USD per day, those once-in-a-lifetime experiences are worth it.

For more information, check out my guide to visiting Peru !  

7. Bulgaria

Because the country is under the radar, you’ll find no crowds and affordable prices. Hostels are only $10 USD per night, street food (like kebabs) are just $4-5 USD), and there are plenty of ruins, beaches, and a great mix of Turkish and European culture. Most museums are only $5 USD and even big-ticket activities like bungee jumping are only $30 USD.

Now that it is in the Schengen, I suspect it will become more popular. But, for now, you can easily get by here for as little as $30-35 USD per day.

For more information, check out our guide to visiting Bulgaria !  

If you’re on a backpacker budget you can enjoy a day in Vietnam for as little as $15 USD (though that will really mean really cutting costs down). For a more comfortable backpacker trip, $25-30 USD is a good benchmark.

Hostels can be found for as little as $4-5 USD, with many including free breakfast and free beer (during limited hours). Street food can be found for under $1-2 USD, and buses around the country are incredibly cheap.

Even activities here are cheap. The Cu Chi Tunnels (tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam war) are just $5 USD to visit while a full day of canyoning is just $20 USD.

For more information, check out my guide to visiting Vietnam !  

Hostels and guesthouses here are as little as $5 USD, while delicious food can be had for $2 USD or less! If you’re a foodie on a budget, India should definitely rank high on your list.

If you’re looking to get some value for your dollar, this is a great destination to splurge in. You can get by for $25-30 USD a day here quite easily, which means if you splash out and spend $50 USD a day you’ll ve living large.

For more information, check out my guide to visiting India !  

While mainland China gets a lot of attention, Taiwan is mostly overlooked by budget travelers. You can easily visit Taiwan for $40-50 USD per day as food and accommodation are both super affordable. Hostels start around $10 USD while street food costs just a couple dollars (and is super tasty). There are plenty of markets, lots of hiking, convenient public transportation, and a fun nightlife. No matter what you are interested in, you can find it in Taiwan. You’ll get a lot of value here.

For more information, check out my guide to visiting Taiwan !

There are many great destinations in the world that don’t have to cost a fortune. While some of these destinations might be expensive to fly to, once you get there, they are incredibly affordable.

You may not be able to embrace the luxurious lifestyle you’ll see on social media, but any trip is better than no trip!

By visiting some of these more affordable budget destinations you’ll be able to stretch your budget and make your trip financially attainable, allowing you to travel longer and more often.

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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Kinda Frugal

18 Cheapest Countries To Visit in Europe All Year Round

Posted: March 14, 2024 | Last updated: March 14, 2024

International travel does not have to break the bank. There are many options for affordable vacations within Europe without compromising the quality of your stay. Whether you’re after a lazy beach holiday or an adventure vacation hiking through a vast wilderness, many less-traveled European nations offer a cheaper alternative to the usual tourist hotspots.

Sitting quietly on the border between Europe and Asia, Georgia has something for everyone. Whether you are after a city break in the bustling city of Tbilisi or a quiet vacation among the vast wilderness and mountains, Georgia offers it at an affordable price. Excluding flights, a trip to Georgia can cost as little as $30 a day.

Serbia has become increasingly popular as a holiday destination over the last few years, hosting over five and a half million foreign visitors in 2023. Belgrade’s capital city is a gastronomic hub with many restaurants, cafes, and bars. With prices lower than most in Western Europe, fine dining can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. You can pay anywhere from $5 to $12 for a standard meal.

Poland boasts two cities well worth a visit: Krakow and Warsaw. Krakow was voted the European Capital of Culture in 2000 , while Warsaw is steeped in the history of World War Two. Warsaw is the more expensive of the two but is still affordable by European standards. 

4. Bulgaria

Sofia, the capital city, is very affordable, with an average two-person vacation costing $916 . Sunny Beach is a must-visit for those after a good party, offering water sports , paintball , and an incredibly lively nightlife . Bulgaria is home to many affordable resorts catering to all tastes.

Hungary is one of many Eastern European countries that can be visited on a tight budget. Budapest is its bustling capital, though many other towns and cities are well worth seeing. The cost of a typical meal at a restaurant in Budapest is less than half the price you would pay in New York. A typical lunch in Budapest can cost as little as $9.

The number of visitors to Albania almost doubled between 2022 and 2023, which is expected to keep growing . Lovingly named the Albanian Riviera, Albania has some of the best beaches in Europe in the summer. It is an excellent alternative to some of the more expensive Mediterranean countries. Tirana is incredibly affordable, with accommodation available for less than $25 a night.

7. Lithuania

As one of the cheapest countries to live in Europe, Lithuania is an excellent place for a budget-friendly vacation. Like its neighbor Latvia, much of Lithuania is covered in forests . Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is famed for its Baroque architecture and is home to many clubs, restaurants, coffee shops, theaters, and bars.

Romania is ideal for someone after an enjoyable cultural holiday. There are many cultural sites worth visiting, such as ancient churches, monasteries, and castles. The country is home to nine UNESCO World Heritage sites. Bucharest, the capital of Romania, remains a low-cost destination. If you’re willing to share, a room can cost as little as 70 Romanian Leu , or $15 .

9. Slovenia

As the 8th most peaceful nation in the world and one of the cheapest nations to visit in Europe, Slovenia is an ideal place for a reasonably priced European vacation. The old town of Ljubljana is picturesque, while the city comes alive at night. Ljubljana offers numerous day trip options conveniently accessible through the city’s efficient railway and bus networks.

10. Montenegro

Lying on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, This quiet Balkan nation saw its tourist arrivals almost double between 2011 and 2021. Montenegro is an excellent choice for an affordable sunny getaway. If you enjoy blue seas and soft white sand, the Budva Riviera or the beaches of the Bay of Kotor are not to be missed. Accommodation in the Bay of Kotor can be found reasonably priced, from as little as $170 for seven nights .

11. Croatia

Croatia has it all, from Zagreb’s modern, urban nightlife to the history-steeped city of Dubrovnik. While prices have steadily increased, Croatia remains an affordable destination compared to Western Europe. A 15-day public transit pass for less than $30 can give you free rein in the city.

12. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, known as Czechia, is renowned for its stunning castles, interesting culture, and delicious beer. Prague may not be a budget-friendly destination, but it offers a more affordable option than many Western European cities . A traveler on a budget can expect to spend between $50 and $70 a night for food, accommodation, travel, and activities. The extensive public transportation networks mean travel within the country is easy and efficient.  

Cyprus has been a top-rated tourist destination for years , but it remains cheaper for tourists. There are plenty of options for accommodation under $50 a day, and food and drink remain affordable. The small city of Nicosia has plenty to keep you occupied, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants. 

A country of two continents, Turkey is split down the middle by the Bosphorus River , with Europe on one side and Asia on the other. Despite its popularity among tourists, it is still very affordable. A restaurant meal for two can cost as little as ₺200, just under $7 . A cup of Turkish coffee or tea tends to cost less than 50¢.

Latvia is a solid choice for someone wanting an affordable stay amidst beautiful landscapes. Over half of the country is covered in forest, perfect for an outdoor adventure holiday . It is also great for architecture lovers, as the city of Riga has the world’s highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture.

Lying just off the tip of North Africa between Italy and Tunisia , Malta is perfect for an affordable vacation in a sunny climate. Malta is a proven tourist destination, hosting over five times as many tourists as its entire population . Being such a small country, booking a room in Valletta’s city center is unnecessary. The town of Floriana is only a short walking distance from Valletta and offers better prices .

17. Estonia

Estonia may be a good alternative if you can’t reasonably afford a Norwegian or Finnish getaway. Estonia is the northernmost non-Arctic member of the European Union and a very affordable tourist destination. If you’re working on a budget, you can comfortably stay in the capital city of Tallinn for around $50 a day .

18. Slovakia

If you like wine, you’ll love Slovakia. With its age-old wine industry and affordable prices, Slovakia offers an opportunity for a budget-friendly wine-tasting tour . There are also many UNESCO Heritage sites , such as the Dobšiná Ice Cave or Spiš Castle. The capital city, Bratislava, is affordable by European standards and is only a 90-minute train ride from the Austrian city of Vienna.

All Tastes Catered For

If you want to make your money go further, sometimes it’s necessary to take the road less traveled. You don’t have to jet off to Paris or Rome for a taste of Europe’s culture and cuisine. Lesser-known European countries boast hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re drawn to Ljubljana’s medieval charm or the vibrant modernity of cities like Belgrade and Vilnius, these budget-friendly destinations offer something for every traveler.

14 Coastal Towns That Offer Affordable Retirement and Quality

Retirement is not just about taking a long-deserved break; it’s about embracing a new adventure in life’s next chapter. What better way to start this journey than in a coastal town, where the sea meets the sky in a harmony of tranquil living? This post sails through the 14 most enchanting seaside towns, handpicked for retirees who dream of quality living without breaking the bank. We’ve anchored downtowns that tick all the boxes for an ideal retirement haven – affordability, rich quality of life, top-notch healthcare, and delightful weather. So, let’s dive in and explore these seaside gems where your golden years can truly shine.

16 Affordable Retirement Destinations Abroad

Retirement can be exciting for people who have worked hard and are ready to enjoy the good life. Many retirees want to make the most of their money and enjoy the rest of their life the best they can. For some, retiring abroad sounds like a fun adventure. Luckily, in some foreign locations, retirees can keep some of their hard-earned money in their bank accounts. Below are some of the best places for new retirees to settle down and enjoy their lives.

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The Cheapest Countries to Visit (For a GREAT Solo Trip!)

When you’re a travel blogger (even if it’s just a hobby, like it is for me!) people often ask how you can afford to travel so much.  For me, the #1 most important money-saving travel tip is to choose affordable destinations where my money will go further.  This is especially important for solo travelers, as we don’t have the luxury of splitting accommodation costs or sharing a rental car.  The cheapest countries to visit for us are those with excellent public transportation networks, lots of comfortable hostels, a wide variety of food options and excursions that can be done independently or with a reasonably-priced organized tour.

To make my list of the fifteen cheapest countries to visit, I looked back through two decades worth of receipts for things like hostels and bus tickets, checked updated menu prices at my favorite eateries abroad, and spent way too much time doing currency conversions on my iPhone calculator.  In the end, I found fifteen countries across Europe, Asia and the Americas where prices are low but the simple joy of travel is high.  Read on to find your next budget travel destination!

The Cheapest Countries to Visit in Europe

Although Georgia is quickly becoming a budget travel hotspot (read more about Georgia below), Armenia remains an underrated budget travel option. It is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe, with daily costs for budget travelers coming in around $40 USD per day.  (For the record, I am Canadian, but it’s easier to convert local prices to US dollars!).

Most visitors to Armenia focus on Yerevan, the capital. Here, you can find a bed in a dorm room for less than $10 USD (I recommend Envoy Hostel , both here and in Tbilisi). Inexpensive food options include pastries from local bakeries, shawarma from street vendors or fresh fruits from the market; you can easily make a light meal for less than $2 USD. Personally, though, I preferred to eat in Yerevan’s cute cafes and wine bars, where a vegetarian meal (with a glass of wine, of course!) costs less than $10.

Outside of Yerevan there are fewer hostels, so you might have to splurge on a private room but can reduce costs in other areas. Most guesthouses (like the ones in beautiful, mountaintop Tatev ) serve a lovely Armenia breakfast to their guests, and activities like hiking and visiting archeological sites can be free or inexpensive.

When Georgia opened its doors to digital nomads, this previously under-the-radar country was suddenly thrust into the travel blogger spotlight. I visited Georgia before it became popular, spending just $20 USD per day for a dorm room in Tbilisi’s historic center (like in Armenia, I recommend Envoy Hostel !), delicious local cuisine and the occasional ride on a bus or subway.

Georgia has affordable inter-city transportation by bus and train, making it easy to explore beyond the capital. There are lots of places that can be visited as day trips, and the prevalence of locally-owned guesthouses and B&Bs allows you to extend your trip into an overnight visit or weekend away. For example, a bus from Tbilisi to Chiatura (home to a brand-new network of cable cars!) can be as little as $2. If you’d like to hike in the mountains, the nine-hour bus trip to Mestia is only $12.

A highlight of any visit to Georgia is the cuisine. Popular Georgian dishes include khachapuri (flatbread that comes stuffed or topped with ingredients like fried eggs, cheese and/or herbs), khinkali (dumplings stuffed with different ingredients; personally I like mushrooms!) and local red wine. You can easily enjoy a filling meal for under $5, especially if you’re sharing dishes family-style with other travelers you’ve met along the way!

Poland is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe. On my first visit to Poland I traveled south to north, stopping in Krakow, Torun and Gdansk. The next time I visited Poland I focused on the capital, Warsaw. Both trips were easily possible on a backpacker budget of less than $40 USD per day.

You will never get bored visiting Poland, even if you’re on a tight budget. All of the cities I visited were so pretty that you could entertain yourself simply by walking around. Fortunately, though, many of Poland’s most interesting attractions can fit into a backpacker budget.

For example, in Warsaw, the fascinating and heartbreaking Museum of the History of Polish Jews normally costs $7 (and is worth every penny!) but also has free admission days. In Gdansk, the European Solidarity Center is free to enter and explore, and its world-class museum exhibits can be added to your visit for just $6. Malbork Castle, the largest castle in the world (and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shown above) costs less than $15 USD to visit, including an English audioguide.

Poland also gets rave reviews for its cheap eats and drinks. Many cities and towns still have traditional “milk bars”, or cafeteria-style restaurants dishing up affordable, traditional Polish foods like perogies, sausages and hearty soups. As a vegetarian, I always looked for plates of pierogies filled with wild mushrooms, cottage cheese and/or potatoes (which taste even better with a big glass of cheap beer to wash them down!).

Looking for more budget travel tips?

Follow Fearless Female Travels on Facebook for more tips and conversations about traveling around the world as a solo female traveler on a budget!

I first visited Turkey in 2010 and most recently returned in 2019. Even before its recent currency crisis, Turkey has long been one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe (and in Asia, since this country spans two continents!).

Turkey’s largest city, Istanbul, has all the cosmopolitan offerings of Berlin, Barcelona, Rome or Paris, but at a fraction of the price.  It’s always free to visit the city’s beautiful mosques, including the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia (which was recently converted from museum back to mosque), and other attractions like Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern are very affordable.

Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast is one of the cheapest beach destinations in Europe. In Kas, a popular tourist town with easy access to many beautiful beaches, private double rooms with air conditioning and a full Turkish breakfast included can be as little as $30 USD for two people (so, $15 each). Further down the coast you can score a bed in a popular hostel in Antalya for less than $10 per night.

Note: At the time I first published this post, Ukraine was one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe. However, since publication, Russia has invaded and attacked Ukraine.  I recommend waiting to visit Ukraine after the conflict is over, at which time your tourist dollars will help the country rebuild.

Ukraine is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe. You can easily backpack around Ukraine on a budget of $30 USD per day, while a comfortable mid-range trip should only cost about $20 per day more.

Ukraine is a vibrant, modern Eastern European country (much like Poland!). The capital city, Kyiv, has beautiful architecture, evocative churches, pretty parks and a nightlife scene ranging from classy cocktail bars to wild techno clubs. Outside of the capital, Lviv is a popular tourist destination for its colorful, quaint center, and Odessa is a popular beach getaway. Intercity transportation by bus and train is very cheap, so you can explore the whole country (including smaller towns like Zhytomyr and Vinnytsia ) without breaking the bank.

One fun way to reduce costs in Ukraine is to eat at a stolovaya, or typical Eastern European cafeteria. At well-known national chain Puzata Khata, a heaping plate of salad, grilled vegetables, fried potatoes and bread, plus a glass of beer, should cost less than $4 USD.

The Cheapest Countries to Visit in Asia

If you’re on a budget, India is the ideal travel destination. As one of the cheapest countries to visit in Asia, you can still travel around India on a budget of $30 USD per day, and if your budget is closer to $50 a day you can have a very comfortable trip.

I spent about two months in India in 2019. I started my trip in Rajasthan, where I explored the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra and Jaipur), Keoladeo National Park and Udaipur. Then, I flew south to Goa, spent a week at an Ayurvedic yoga retreat and lived the hippie life in Palolem and Anjuna before escaping to the natural beauty of Kerala .

The most expensive part of the trip was the yoga retreat, where I spent about $65 USD per day for a private double room with air conditioning, two daily yoga classes, three meals per day, five Ayurvedic wellness treatments and daily excursions around Goa. Other days, in destinations like Jaipur and Munnar, I was spending less than $20 a day on comfortable dorm rooms, walking tours, meals and the occasional auto-rickshaw ride around town.

Even a visit to the Taj Mahal , which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, only costs $16 (including entrance to the mausoleum).

Generally, I found India to be very safe for solo female travelers. Although you’ll get some stares (and a lot of requests for selfies with locals!) I didn’t have problems with groping or harassment. I have an entire Q&A about solo female travel in India if you’re considering a visit!

Another cheap country to visit in Asia is, surprisingly, Indonesia. My own travels in Indonesia focused on the most expensive area (Bali and the surrounding islands) but it was still very affordable.

A backpacker budget in Indonesia allows you to book private rooms in guesthouses, eat filling meals in local warungs, join a few different excursions and still have money left over for a cocktail by the beach at sunset. If you’ve got a little bit of flexibility in your budget, Indonesia is an affordable place to indulge in some travel luxuries, like learning to scuba dive or spending a day at the spa. For example, I paid $15 USD for an Ubud spa package consisting of a full-body scrub, relaxation massage and soak in an outdoor flower bath with views of the rice terraces.

Communities with large expat populations (such as Canggu) have higher prices than communities that are still mostly locals (such as Gili Air ). Outside of Bali and the vicinity, prices can be even lower. Places like Lombok and Yogyakarta are stunning and affordable.

Although Malaysia shares a border with Singapore, the two countries definitely don’t share a travel budget! While Singapore can easily break the bank, Malaysia is one of the cheapest places to visit in Asia. Its modern capital city, Kuala Lumpur, is impressively affordable, and as you travel further north towards the Cameron Highlands and Penang you’ll find prices dropping even more.

Typically, I splurge on luxury accommodation in Kuala Lumpur because luxury properties are available for the same price as some Singapore dorm rooms. My favorite is the DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur because its included breakfast buffet (check your room rate!) is the size of four regular restaurants and includes countless Indian, Malay, Chinese and Western dishes. If your budget is tighter, there are plenty of highly-rated hostels with dorm beds for only $5.

Malaysia is the perfect destination for foodies on a budget. There is an established street food culture and there are lots of markets where you can check out local ingredients. Noodles or fried rice from a street food vendor or a local restaurant could cost less than $2. Craving nutrients? You can also get fresh fruit juice or smoothies for the same price.

Costs in Sri Lanka are similar to costs throughout much of India. You can visit this island nation on a backpacker budget of $30 USD a day, or you can spend a little bit more to increase the comfort and luxury factors.

I recommend using a site like Booking.com to reserve your accommodation a day or two before you arrive; while there will be touts at the train and bus stations offering accommodation, it’s always nice to know you have a highly-rated guesthouse (with a lovely breakfast included) waiting for you. In touristic areas, Sri Lankan-style meals can be quite expensive, but if you walk a few blocks away and look for restaurants full of locals, you can easily dine well for about $3.

The biggest expense for most tourists in Sri Lanka is activities. Although Sri Lanka is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Asia, organized tours and excursions can add to your costs. Safaris, scuba dives, cooking classes and whale watching trips can cost $20 to $40 per person, so get a good guidebook (I like the Lonely Planet Sri Lanka ) and decide what you can do independently, what needs a guide, and what you can skip entirely.

Vietnam is famously one of the cheapest countries to visit in Southeast Asia. Cheaper than nearby Thailand and Malaysia, Vietnam can easily be explored for $25 USD a day (but be careful – Vietnamese bank notes can look surprisingly similar and handing over the wrong denomination can make your costs add up quickly!).

Most travelers start their trip in one of Vietnam’s larger cities, like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi (known for its great restaurants ).  Cities offer colonial architecture, adventurous street food and the constant honking of horns from cars and motorbikes.  These are also easy places to connect with other travelers and plan onward journeys; the top-rated hostels offer dorm beds for little more than $5 USD per night.

Vietnam’s natural beauty can also be explored on a backpacker budget. Halong Bay is known for its stunning rock formations, while Nha Trang rivals the resort-style nightlife of Thailand’s famous party towns (without the sleaze).  If you’re staying longer, confident motorbike riders can rent a bike for about $50 USD a month, giving you full freedom to explore isolated beaches and off-the-beaten-track mountain towns.

The Cheapest Countries to Visit in the Americas

Unfortunately, Argentina’s currency is in crisis.  In mid-2019, $1 USD purchased 40 Argentinian pesos. As I’m updating this article in Spring 2024, $1 USD now gets you 841 pesos at the bank or 985 pesos on the “blue market”.  You read that correctly: your money could go twenty-four times as far today as it did four years ago.

For travelers coming from the USA, Canada or Western Europe, this is a great time to visit Argentina.  Just make sure you pack lots of cash, as ATMs charge exorbitant fees and there are limits on how much money you can (officially) exchange. Petty crime is a significant problem (I was robbed during my own visit!) so pack lots of cash but don’t carry too much at any time.

I spent all of my time in Argentina in Buenos Aires, where I stayed in both Recoleta and Palermo , two of the city’s trendiest districts.  Here, I was surrounded by cool restaurants where I could eat amazing food for less than $10, and I could easily walk to museums and parks with admission that cost less than $5.  When I wanted to go further afield, a single journey on a bus or metro cost about $0.30 using my Sube smart card.

Obviously  you don’t have to stick to the capital – I was just really tired after backpacking for six months straight!  Other popular destinations in Argentina include Iguazu Falls (on the border with Brazil), Salta (for colonial charm) and, of course, Patagonia (for stunning mountain vistas).

While a backpacker can get by on about $35 USD per day in Colombia, it’s a particularly attractive destination for mid-range travelers, as a slightly-higher budget (of about $60 USD per day for a solo traveler for $100 USD per day for a couple) can make for a very comfortable trip.

My trip to Colombia started in Santa Marta, as I found a ridiculously cheap flight to this little town beside the Tayrona National Park.  From here, you can do a four- or five-day guided trek through the jungle to the Lost City for about $350 USD, including all of your meals, simple accommodation (like hammocks or tents) and an expert guide. For comparison’s sake, this is about half the per-day cost of Peru’s Inca Trail.

If trekking isn’t your thing, you can easily fly around Colombia’s big cities on budget airlines.  I flew from Cartagena to Medellin to San Andres to Bogota; domestic flights can be found for as little as $20 USD if you’re only bringing carry-on baggage.  I opted for private rooms in popular hostels, where for about $20 USD per night I had my own comfortable room (with air conditioning!), a private bathroom and access to all of the hostels’ amenities.  Of course, dorm rooms and bus travel would have been even cheaper, but I really enjoyed “comfortable” backpacking around Colombia.

Ecuador is one of the cheapest countries to visit in South America.  It’s possible to backpack around Ecuador on as little as $40 USD per day as a solo traveler.

Dorm rooms typically cost less than $10 USD per night, and it’s possible to book some private rooms (with shared bathrooms) for about $15 USD per night.  The rest of your backpacking budget should go towards meals from street food vendors, basic public transportation (including some inter-city trips) and admission to some of the mainland museums and attractions.

If you keep your costs low in Ecudador, you might be able to squeeze in a trip to the Galapagos Islands, which averages about $2,000.

I live in Canada, and whenever my friends say, “Oh, I want to go to Europe, but I just can’t afford it”, I always respond by saying, “Have you considered Mexico City?” We often think of Mexico as being primarily a beach destination, but I believe it offers experiences that rival those of many European hotspots… at a fraction of the price (and a fraction of the airfare from North America).

Although most of what I’ve written about Mexico focuses on the Pacific beach towns (since destinations like Cabo San Lucas , Sayulita and San Pancho are easy to reach from my hometown), I’ve actually visited Mexico City about three or four times, always as a solo female backpacker.  I love how I can wander the historic city center, which is full of pretty colonial architecture and even some historic ruins, and then travel a few kilometers to the trendy neighborhoods of Condesa and Roma for world-class cuisine and nightlife.  Mexico City also has amazing museums and parks, and some of the best day trip opportunities in North America (hello, Teotihuacan!).

A budget of about $40 USD per day gets you the basic backpacker experience in most of non-coastal Mexico (including Mexico City, Guadalajara and Guanajuato).  The only added costs would be any luxury experiences you’re looking to indulge in, or any organized excursions you’d want to take (for example, I’ve been to Teotihuacan on a tour and via local bus, and I think it’s worth splurging for the tour).

Nicaragua is an underrated budget travel destination, and one of the cheapest countries to visit in Central America.  For about $35 USD per day you can follow my Nicaragua travel itinerary , taking you from charming towns to spectacular beaches to volcanic lagoons in either seven or ten days.

Sticking to the west side of Nicaragua reduces your travel costs, as there is frequent public bus service between all of the popular backpacking destinations along this route.  A highlight of the trip for me was the affordable, vegetarian-friendly food I found throughout the country, including typical Nica breakfasts (rice, beans, salsa and scrambled eggs), fresh fruits (including smoothies and juices) and, particularly in beach towns, local takes on international dishes, served up at expat-owned restaurants.  The other thing I loved?  Seeing so many monkeys!

Have you been to any of these cheap countries?  What was your most memorable budget travel experience?  Let me know in the comments!

(And if you’re looking for more money-saving travel tips so that you can travel longer, or more often, check out my guide to 45 money-saving travel hacks that I actually use on almost every trip!)

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25 Cheapest Countries to Fly to From the USA in 2024

With inflation on the rise and the increase in oil prices, airfare rates outside the USA have become unmanageable, ranging from 2.3% to 6.1% , depending on the destination.

But if you’re savvy enough, with short flights and opting for budget airlines, you can save big on your next flight, primarily to affordable countries like Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Canada.

In this article, I’ll show you the cheapest countries to fly to from the USA and how much you can expect to spend in the upcoming months.

Key Takeaways:

• The cheapest countries to fly to from the USA are Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Canada, and Mexico. 
• Italy, Poland, Bulgaria, and Croatia are some of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe from the USA. 
• Some tips for finding the cheapest place to fly from the USA include utilizing flight search engines like Kayak, Google Flights, and Skyscanner, booking weeks or months before the travel date, and avoiding flying during peak seasons.

Cheapest Countries to Fly to From the USA 

1. puerto rico.

If you want to experience the cheapest Caribbean vacation of your life, Puerto Rico tops the list of the cheapest countries to fly to from the USA with no visa or passport requirements. 

For a cheap base price of $32 for one-way and two-way flights, with an average price of $141, you can experience Puerto Rico’s warm beaches, rich cultural legacy, and authentic Puerto Rican cuisine like Mofongo and Lechon.

Mexico is one of the top cheap places to travel internationally from the USA, especially if you’re coming south, with many surfing spots, hiking trails, and a rich cultural background to experience. 

With short, direct flights for as low as $41 from discount airlines bound to Mexico, you can experience their nature, vibrant nightlife, archeological sites like Chichen Itza and Tulum, and top beach resorts like Cancun and Playa del Carmen. 

3. Dominican Republic

Another popular Caribbean getaway, the Dominican Republic, is one the cheapest countries to fly to from the USA because of its proximity, high volume of tourists, waived landing fees, and competition among low-cost air carriers. You can expect to book cheap flights in Skyscanner at around $74 and $203 for typical roundtrip airfares.

Explore the diverse nature of the Dominican Republic, including its Punta Cana beach, the UNESCO World Heritage Zona Colonial, the El Limon waterfall, and white rafting at Yaque del Norte River, the Caribbean’s longest. 

4. Costa Rica

Flying to Costa Rica has been in high demand from US travelers due to the eco-tourism, adventurous tourist spots, and quick flying time, with the cheapest flights hitting as low as $66 and an average roundtrip price of $267. 

Some top tourist spots and destinations you should include in your itinerary are the Monteverde Cloud Forest, Arenal for the sight of the volcano and La Fortuna, the surf town of Tamarindo, and the Pacific beaches at Jaco. 

Just 2-3 hours away from the US and the second closest Caribbean island from the region, Haiti is conveniently an excellent pick to travel from the USA. The cheapest flights bound to the capital, Port Au Prince, range from $53 to $238, depending on the month you’re flying. 

What makes Haiti endearing goes beyond its attractions, such as Sans Souci Palace and Citadelle Laferriere fortress. The gems and outdoor adventures waiting to be discovered truly capture the heart.

6. Guatemala

As a developing nation, Guatemala is one of the cheapest countries to fly to from the USA, with affordable airfares, cheap food, accommodations, and marked-down entrance fees to attractions. You can travel from the USA to Guatemala for as low as $38 during off-seasons and as little as $134 during peak seasons, and prices play around those numbers all year round. 

With a mix of Mayan ruins, colonial sights, and splendid nature, Guatemala’s attractions are diverse and worth visiting. Visit the capital city and Antigua to experience the Guatemalan colonial culture and explore the Caribbean coast of Rio Dulce and the center of Mayan ruins, Tikal.

7. Colombia

Colombia is a good backpacker destination that US visitors have not yet overrun, and flights are generally affordable for as low as $52, going up to $140 for direct one-way flights depending on the time of the year, especially if you’re coming from Miami. Some of the top and most affordable cities to visit in Colombia are Bogota, Cartagena, Medellin, and Cali. 

For an adventurous journey, visit the favorite spots in Colombia, such as the Historic Cartagena, for a great perception of the colonial architecture, the “Lost City” archaeological site in Ciudad Perdida, and Selva Verde’s rainforest. For an unforgettable experience, try out their exotic fruits, Lulo and Feijoa. 

8. El Salvador

El Salvador is the cheapest country to visit without a visa, especially when traveling off-peak dates, seat sales, and riding budget airlines like Spirit and Avianca El Salvador. Skyscanner found the cheapest tickets for as low as $35 for direct one-way flights and $137 for roundtrip direct flights. 

For a breath of refreshment, you can experience a variety of activities in El Salvador, from relaxing and surfing on Playa El Tunco and El Zonte beaches, hiking volcanoes, and exploring Mayan ruins like Joya de Ceren, San Andres, and Tazumal. 

Some of the biggest reasons why flying to Canada from the USA is cheap are because of the close value of the US dollar to the Canadian dollar, and there are so many modes of transportation you can take, from buses and trains to ferries, because of proximity, causing the airfares to be lower. In Skyscanner , the cheapest flight ticket for a direct one-way start is as low as $36 going to Kelowna, Calgary, or Toronto. 

Canada is unquestionably a dreamland, given its diverse landscapes, pristine nature, and vibrant cities, making so many US travelers flock to the country. Every tourist destination will leave you in awe, just like Niagara Falls, the European feels of Quebec City, Tofino’s untouched beaches, and the scenery of Banff/Jasper National Parks. 

Related: Best Places to Visit in Canada During Winter

10. Jamaica

Just south of Cuba, close to the US, is the birth land of reggae music, Jamaica, where you can directly fly for a very cheap base price ranging from $72 to $286 depending on the month of travel and airline. Many airlines from the US are commonly flying to the country, although demand is less, making the airline charges not big. 

What’s there in Jamaica to see? Jamaica is one of the cheapest countries to visit with beaches, and surprisingly, they’re not that crowded. Never miss attending a reggae concert, which is an absolute signature music of the country; try the captivating, authentic jerk chicken, and explore their affordable white sand beaches and inclusive resorts like that in Doctor’s Cave Beach. 

11. Bahamas

There are plenty of reasons to fly from the USA to the Bahamas; two are it is the home to the most beautiful lagoons in the world, and flights are pretty affordable. Kayak says the average flight from the USA to the Bahamas starts at $72. Moreover, Momondo lists a round trip to the Bahamas, which begins at $234. 

Their flights are cheaper due to the competition among different airlines, seasonal demand, and the distance of the Bahamas from the USA.

Flight class, promotions, and deals are why flights from the USA to Panama are relatively cheaper. According to Momondo , the average cost per flight falls around $177. Is it worth it? The quick answer is yes! You will have the chance to experience a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable adventure, from hiking to its lush green rainforest to a relaxing beach trip. 

13. Ecuador

Indeed, flights from the USA to Ecuador have proven cheap by different websites; according to Cheapflights.com , the average price from the USA to Ecuador starts at $83, while a roundtrip flight, according to Skyscanner , starts at $337. There are plenty of things that you can do when you visit Ecuador, like exploring the historical capital, Quito, or even cruising the Amazon River. 

Brazil is home to unique places you can go, like The Amazon Rainforest and Christ the Redeemer Statue. According to Kayak and Cheapflights.com , your flight from the US to Brazil starts at $135, with an average travel time of 9 hours. 

Skyscanner says a roundtrip flight from the US to Peru costs around $264-$330. With this price, you will have the chance to enjoy the different attractions in Peru, like visiting the well-known Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain. 

Exploring Torres Del Paine in Patagonia, go; wine testing at Central Valley. You can experience all of that when you visit Peru. Skyscanner says your roundtrip flight from the US to Pero will cost approximately $333 – $415. Price may vary depending on the month of your travel.

17. Barbados

Are you traveling on a budget? Barbados is a perfect place for you with its budget-friendly flights ranging from $120-$67 direct flights. You can enjoy unforgettable activities like beach hopping and exploring Harrison’s Cave. It is also worth visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bridgetown, the plantation at St. Nicholas Abbey, and seeing the Barbados Rum Distilleries. 

Cheapest Countries to Visit in Europe 

Italy holds some of the most beautiful places you can visit for a reasonable price. It is considered one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe from the US, especially in Milan, Rome, and Venice. The hostel accommodations are affordable, starting at $20 per night; their local restaurants offer a $6 to $20 meal, and most notable are the cheap flights where you can spend around $158 for a one-way ticket and $402 for a two-way. 

If you want to savor the hearty and tantalizing Polish cuisine like Pierogi and Kielbasa and experience Poland’s rich cultural heritage and incredible landscapes, airfare is not a problem! With cheap flight prices of as low as $156 for one-way and begins at $538 for two-way to Warsaw, you can explore Krakow’s Old Town and Auschwitz-Birkenau, hike the Tatra mountains, and explore Warsaw’s royal castle.

Discover the cheapest European cities to visit here .

20. Bulgaria

It’s probably not the cheapest and not the usual go-to place in Europe, but Bulgaria offers the best values for you right now when visiting Europe. There are Skyscanner cheap flights as low as $156 direct or $524 base two-way flight prices. 

With this, you can experience UNESCO World Heritage sites like Old Nessebar, an ancient town near the Black Sea, Rila Monastery, and the centerpiece of Bulgaria lying at the heart of Sofia, the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. 

21. Croatia

One of the summer gems of Europe, Croatia is blazingly beautiful, with many waterfalls and pristine beaches. Flying to Croatia is cheap, costing you around $180 for a direct one-way flight, and can start at $588 for a two-way. Prepare your monthly supply of summer outfits before you experience the Dalmatian Islands dotted with Hvar, Brac, and Corcula, sailing the Adriatic Sea, and the world-renowned historic old town of Dubrovnik. 

Greece is generally 20% cheaper than the US, and it is one of the top choices for the cheapest countries to visit in Europe. Cheapest flights to the country’s main cities like Athens, Mykonos, and Mira Islands are offered for as low as $166, averaging at $400 for return flights. 

Top-rated tourist destinations include the Acropolis of Athens, the Parthenon, Ancient Agora, and the beach islands of Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. Greek cuisine is also highly recommended, featuring dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava.

Check out the best places to visit in Greece !

23. United Kingdom

Aside from the iconic attractions in London City, the Stonehenge, Bath, and Lake District, the United Kingdom offers competitive airline ticket prices, especially if you’re flying to some of the budget-friendly airports in the UK – Manchester, London Gatwick, Birmingham, and London City. Direct flights from the US to the UK generally can be bought for as low as $152, averaging $500 for two-way.

24. North Macedonia

North Macedonia is refreshing and one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe because of its natural beauty and historical and cultural sites. One of the most explored is the central area of Skopje, the most profound and most ancient Lake Ohrid, and the scenic drop of Matka Canyon. And you can experience North Macedonia for as low as $199 one-way and averaging $350 for a two-way trip. 

France is renowned for its landmarks, and traveling there from the United States feels like a dream. But cheap flights going to the city are available through budget airlines like Norse and British Airways for as low as $150 direct and $428 for a roundtrip flight. 

The go-to places are the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Montmartre, and Seine River Cruise. Aside from the city proper, southern France also boasts many attractions like Provence’s, with hectares of lavender fields and a stretch of beautiful beaches at Nice. 

How to Find Cheap Flights from the USA

There are several ways to find cheap flights from the USA. It would be best if you did the following.

• Using Flight search Engines like Google Flights, cheapflights.com, and Kayak will help you compare flight fares.  
• Book your flight ahead of time for lower prices. 
• Avoid flying during peak seasons. Flights during peak season typically double their prices due to the number of tourists traveling. 
• Consider booking at budget airlines like Frontier, Spirit, and Allegiant if traveling on a budget from the USA. 
• Consider booking your flights from alternative airports outside major cities. 

There are many ways to travel outside the US for a cheaper price. You must consider looking for more affordable flights, flying during the off-season, and staying at a more reasonable accommodation. 

The cheapest flight from the USA to Europe continuously varies on different factors. However, some major cities have competitive fairs due to highly accessible airports. Like London, according to Expedia , the one-way flight starts at $83, while the roundtrip flight starts at $175. 

The answer always depends on your lifestyle and budget. For instance, according to Costa Rica Travel Life , backpackers are expected to spend $80 daily, where budget hotels start around $20 per night, while hostels begin at $150 and up.

New York City, Boston, Washington DC, and Chicago are some of the cities that offer direct flights from the USA to Europe. For instance, John F. Kennedy International Airport offers the most direct flights from the USA to Europe .

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Victoria Omololu is a fashionista exploring the world on a budget. She co-founded Only Earthlings in 2023 to show her travels in North America, Europe, Africa, and everywhere else. Victoria loves writing about travel tips, itineraries, packing guides, and taking photography from all over the world.

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15 Cheap Countries to Visit With Family

Published on april 15, 2024 at 11:07 pm by daniyal jawaid in news.

In this article, we will go over the 15 cheap countries to visit with family . If you want to read our discussion about the tourism industry, its recovery from the pandemic, and future trends in tourism, visit 30 Cheap Countries to Visit With Family .

15 – South Africa

One week trip cost for two people – $1,214.

South Africa, the 15th country on our list of the 30 cheap countries to visit with family, received more than 2.5 million overnight visitors in 2021. However, the recent killing of a UK tourist has negatively impacted the popularity of the country.

Egypt India Serbia Russia Poland Panama Morocco Albania Romania Hungary Thailand Ethiopia Colombia Bulgaria South Africa 20 Most Democratic Countries in Asia 15 Cheap Countries to Visit With Family 20 Countries With The Highest Railway Passenger Traffic in The World Show more... Show less

AI Fire Sale: Insider Monkey’s #1 AI Stock Pick Is On A Steep Discount

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50-year Wall Street Insider Names #1 stock for AI “Tidal Wave”

Published on april 1, 2024 at by insider monkey staff.

Should I put my money in Artificial Intelligence?

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Click to continue reading…

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