Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, I find that I often spend less when I travel than I would if I were home in the States for a month. 

When thinking about the cheapest countries to travel to in the world, destinations in Southeast Asia are probably the first ones that come to mind.

While this is a great starting point, I wanted to go further and compile a definitive list of the cheapest countries to travel to beyond the usual destinations.

To get the best and most comprehensive list possible, I asked travel bloggers to help me come up with some of the cheapest countries to travel to in the world.

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Note:   The prices in this post are from 2018. While I’ve updated this post to reflect safety information and other important changes, I can’t personally verify the cost of traveling to these destinations in 2023. Due to global events since 2018, including inflation, pandemic-related changes, and currency fluctuations, this update doesn’t attempt to fix all prices. Instead, I’ve changed the “floor” for “cheap countries” to countries that are doable for backpacking on a $40/day budget, instead of the previous $30/day budget. Spending $40 a day in Vietnam will be very different than spending $40 a day in Spain, for example—but both are doable with careful budgeting.

The responses I received spanned five continents and many regions, terrains, and cultures.

And as commenters have noted — I have yet to explore some of the other surprisingly affordable countries.

So before you say you can’t afford to travel, take a look at this post and think again.

Cheapest countries to travel in Asia

Thailand

By Hannah & Adam of Getting Stamped

Traveling in Thailand can be very cheap or you can even book a 5 star hotel for under $100.

If you want to save money and travel for longer, Thailand is definitely one of the cheapest countries to travel to.

You can easily find a really good hostel in Bangkok for $10, or even much cheaper for a more basic hostel.

If you want to go to the beach you will realize that quick accommodation can be very expensive BUT did you know some islands have camping grounds?

On Koh Adang, you can rent a fully furnished tent for two for 200 baht a day — that’s less than $3 per person per night   , and   even cheaper if you have your own tent for 30 baht (0.85 cents).

The only accommodation on the island is in the National Park, where there are a few small bungalows for 600 baht ($16.50) or camping.

Here are the details of the trip to Koh Adang, Thailand: $3 per night for camping in a tent for two, $1 for snorkeling gear rental, $5.50 for round-trip long-tail boat from Koh Lipe, $8 for three meals at restaurants on the island, and $5-10 for snacks and beer purchased at 7/11.

You can spend as little as $10 a day exploring Koh Adang. There are several waterfalls to hike, beaches with great snorkeling, and stunning viewpoints.

You can even spend less than $30 and stay in really nice bungalows on the island.

There aren’t many other islands in Thailand that have so few tourists and you can basically have the beach to yourself!

Laos

By Gabor of Surfing the Planet

Laos is certainly not one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia.

It is the only country in the region without beaches, so tourists prefer to visit neighboring countries.

However, partly due to the lack of tourists, Laos is a very authentic destination with beautiful landscapes, inspiring culture and very friendly people.

In northern Laos, you can explore dense rainforest and visit a number of different ethnic communities.

In Luang Prabang, the ancient capital of Laos, you can admire a mix of French colonial architecture and ancient Buddhist temples.

Vientiane is certainly the most peaceful capital in the region, where you can visit the country’s national monuments.

In the south, you can get lost in the coffee plantations and picturesque waterfalls of the Bolaven Plateau, then rest on one of the 4,000 islands on the Mekong River.

In Laos we only spent about $20 per person per day.

We spent about $7 on food, $6 on transportation, and an average of $8 for a double room ($4/person), and the rest on other things.

Laos is one of the cheapest destinations in the world, ideal for backpackers on a tight budget.

Vietnam

According to Alesha and Jarryd of NOMADasaurus

Besides being one of the most beautiful, charming and culturally rich countries in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is also one of the cheapest countries to travel to!

Even without checking your daily budget, you can easily live on under $30 a day!

It’s quite common to find private rooms with private bathrooms in modern hotels for around $10 a night, even in major destinations like Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An and Hanoi.

A typical meal costs between $0.50 and $2, and in some places we even got a sandwich for just $0.20!

A glass of bia hoi costs around $0.10-0.20 on the streets of Hanoi, and travel prices range from $0.25 on public transport to $15 on an overnight tourist bus.

One of the most popular ways to get around in Vietnam is by motorbike and this can save you even more money.

We live on about $10 a day and have our own transportation because fuel is so cheap and we can avoid having to take taxis and buses everywhere.

You can buy a motorbike in Vietnam for around $250 and resell it for the same price when you no longer use it.

Some activities can be quite expensive, such as a cruise to Ha Long Bay or a hike to Hang Son Doong, the world’s largest cave (which costs $3,000!).

Despite some luxury exceptions, overall, Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in the world to travel to!

China

By Margherita of The Crowded Planet

Honestly, I thought the cost in China would be much more expensive than it actually is.

We traveled around the country for a month in 2014 and our average budget was $30 a day.

Our trip started in Inner Mongolia, then we moved to Datong, Pingyao, Xi’an, Shanghai, Suzhou and Beijing, where we spent the last week visiting friends.

We love China’s capital – there are so many unique places to visit in Beijing that we never get bored!

There are many hostels in China – prices range from $8-10 for a dorm room and around $20 for a double room outside of major cities.

Simple street foods like noodles or dumplings can cost as little as $1, or even less, while a simple restaurant dinner costs around $5-10.

Overnight buses and trains are also a great way to save money as they are often very comfortable.

On the other hand, admission is quite expensive, usually around $15 – so be careful!

TIP  : Transit can be expensive, so limit your stops to save money when planning your China trip!

Malay

By Jub of Tiki Touring Kiwi

Peninsular Malaysia is often overlooked as a destination for backpackers traveling long distances in Southeast Asia.

Travel costs in Malaysia may not be as cheap as the “big four,” but you can still travel for under $30 a day.

Most hostels cost between RM20 – RM30 ($5 – $7). The quality of these will vary depending on the city, but popular tourist spots will have something to suit your comfort.

The food is amazing! Malaysia is famous for its cuisine, heavily influenced by Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures, ensuring you can try new dishes for weeks.

Street food costs between $1 and $2, and meals at local restaurants range from $1 to $4. Each city has its own specialities to enjoy.

Getting around Malaysia is best done by cheap buses that can take you anywhere on the Peninsula. Prices vary; for example, Ipoh to Penang (4 hours) is around $6.

Alcohol is the hardest part of backpacking in Malaysia on less than $30/day.

Being a (predominantly) Muslim country, alcohol is heavily taxed, especially in bars and restaurants.

There are a few exceptions. Langkawi is duty free and in Penang, head to the ‘Penang Cheapest Beer’ shop where you can buy three cans of Singha for $3 and meet new friends outside the shop.

India

By Nicole of Wee Gypsy Girl

For budget backpackers, it’s hard to find a country with as much to offer as India.

Because of the vastness of the subcontinent, you could spend months there and still feel like you haven’t seen everything.

Plus, you’ll probably find that you don’t lose much of your bank balance either.  

To experience India’s laid-back tropical atmosphere, head south to Kerala.

Here you can hike miles through tea fields, boat across iconic backwaters and spot wildlife in one of the many vast, pristine national parks.

As a backpacker, you can live comfortably on a budget of INR 1,000 to INR 1,500 ($15 to $22).

You can find double rooms at local guesthouses for as little as 300 INR ($4).

Hostel rooms usually cost around INR 500 ($7.50) as it is a relatively new concept in India.

However, the amenities are usually top notch with air conditioning, breakfast and luxury hot showers included in the price.

One of the best things about traveling in India is the food.

Expect to pay around INR 100 ($1.50) for a “veg thali” – an Indian meal consisting of rice, some curries, yogurt and flatbread.

You will never go hungry with great food at cheap prices like this!

Cambodia

By Claudia of My Adventures Across the World

Cambodia is probably one of the cheapest places I have ever been.

Siem Reap, despite being the country’s most popular tourist destination due to its proximity to the Angkor Wat complex, is very affordable.

A luxury hotel costs as little as $15 a night, and a meal at a fancy restaurant costs no more than $10.

But Battambang, the lesser-explored one, is where the real bargains lie.

During my stay there, I paid $3 for a bed in a 6-bed dorm room – and I even had air conditioning in the room.

I add about $2 for breakfast and $4 for a full meal.

When I took the Bamboo Train, I paid $5 – I waited for someone who could take the train with me.

A full day tour around the city and nearby villages and archaeological sites cost me no more than $15.

Depending on each person’s expectations and travel style, the average daily cost for a backpacker is between $10 and $30.

That’s what I call saving!

Taiwan

According to Kirk of Taiwan Falls

Many people may confuse Taiwan with a famous country in Southeast Asia, but in fact Taiwan has more similarities with Japan.

Taiwan is one of the most densely populated countries in the world, but its towering mountains and lush valleys are largely unknown to most people who have not visited.

Traveling Southeast Asia is easier on a $30/day budget, but here are three ways to explore Taiwan’s lush valleys and stunning mountains on a relatively cheap budget.

The easiest option is to use public transport from major cities to reach beautiful lush places near major cities.

You should expect to pay an average of $10 USD per night for a nice hostel and $15-20 USD per night for more luxurious hostels.

A meal costs around $2-5, and transportation costs around $2-5 a day for MRT/bus tickets. Luckily, most hikes and national parks are free.

There are two other great options for exploring Taiwan on a budget.

The more adventurous (with an international driving license) can rent scooters and others can apply for a mountaineering permit and backpack up the many 3,000-meter peaks.

Philippines

By Margherita of The Crowded Planet

The Philippines is one of the cheapest countries to travel to, with a budget of a solid $30 a day.

A bed in a dormitory usually costs less than $10 and a simple roadside meal costs just a few dollars.

As long as you don’t fly too much or arrange your flights in advance, travel costs aren’t too expensive.

For example, a 2-hour ferry booked on the day of departure will typically cost less than $10.

The Philippines is the perfect place to treat yourself – we paid less than $30 for a gorgeous beachfront bungalow on Siquijor Island!

Even adventure activities are quite affordable – a dive can cost as little as $25!

To make things even better, the Philippines’ stunning nature, beaches and sunsets are free for everyone to enjoy.

Pakistan

How about cheap transportation, endless street food, and a cheap comfortable sleep (under $7 a night) ?

What about all that, plus a country full of people eager to meet you, and you don’t have to pay anything anyway?

At just under $15 a day, backpacking in Pakistan is a dream come true.

This is a different country with the friendliest people you will ever meet on your travels.

The chances of you meeting someone who wants to host you — show you around and pay for everything — are 110%. That’s not something you should take advantage of or expect, though.

More than just a cheap travel destination, Pakistan has something for everyone.

Whether you want to camp among the world’s highest mountains, soak up all the Mughal-era wonders, or indulge in mouth-watering spicy cuisine day after day for less than $3 a day, Pakistan is definitely worth your time.

Armenia

By Nellie of Wild Junket

Update 2023 : While travel to Armenia is generally safe, there are occasional outbreaks of violence in the disputed Artsakh/Nagorno Karabakh region due to the Armenia-Azerbaijan border crisis. Stay away from this area and the rest of Armenia will be safe.

Armenia is not usually an attractive destination at first sight for tourists, but I fell in love with Armenia at first sight.

Maybe it’s because I like places that are unconventional or places with tragic pasts.

Still, Armenia captured my heart even though I was only there for a short time.

Compared to its Caucasian neighbors, Armenia has a truly unique culture and history.

The country has its own alphabet and language, its own people and its own cultural identity.

Sometimes it feels like Asia and sometimes it feels like Europe. The captivating blend of East and West is evident in this fascinating country.

Furthermore, it is cheap and safe to travel, and can be easily accessed from most places in Europe.

Some expected costs are as follows. Hotel/hostel costs start from US$15 per night.

An average meal at a cheap eatery costs $5. A marshrutka, or minibus, ride around town costs less than $1, and a day tour costs around $15.

Oman

By Dan of Dan Flying Solo

Oman has a lot of amazing natural scenery!

You can wake up in the morning on the beach, watch turtles lay eggs and at sunrise walk through the desert surrounded by camels.

Hospitality is very important here, so you will be invited, fed and pampered by the locals.

While most people assume that it is impossible to travel to Oman on a budget, and with traditional tours and accommodation this is not possible, there are still a number of ways to keep costs low.

You can camp outdoors in most parts of the country, whether you’re in the desert, on the beach or high in the mountains – bring your tent and sleeping bag and you’ll enjoy the ultimate in nature-inspired sleeping at no extra cost.

Most attractions are free, from beautiful crystal clear waters, stunning beaches, desert treks or exploring magnificent mosques; so far, tourism has not come with a price tag.

Your biggest expense will be buying a car, with 4WDs starting at around $25 a day and 4WDs starting at $60.

4-wheel drive is necessary if you plan to drive deep into the desert or do serious off-roading. For less adventurous people, 2-wheel drive is sufficient.

So grab a few friends to split the cost, stock up on cheap food at the supermarket, or enjoy a meal at a cafe for just a few dollars.

Then you can easily go to Oman for under $30 a day and trust me, it will be a trip unlike any other!

Bangladesh

According to Alice of Teacake Travels

Bangladesh is not everyone’s first choice. It’s dangerous there, right? Women shouldn’t go there, right?

Well, I went backpacking in Bangladesh for a month straight, met other women doing the same, and if you’re looking for cheap places, you’ve come to the right place!

This is one of the poorest countries in the world but I cannot stress enough the kindness and generosity of the local people makes up for that. Their generosity is endless.

There are many reasons to come here but the most famous reason is that Bangladesh has the largest mangrove forest in the world and the longest beach in the world. Isn’t that great?

Plus, there’s a bright pink palace!

To whet your appetite, Bangladesh has some of the most amazing food I have ever tasted, literally.

Their curries are delicious and varied, starting at just $1 at a local restaurant.

Don’t even get me started on the tea! For just 7 cents, you can have the most amazing cup of sweet milk tea ever. Be careful… you’ll get addicted.

Hostels/hotels cost as little as $4.50 a night and taking the bus from one end of the country to the other (admittedly dangerous because of the potential for accidents, but a great way to blend in with the locals) costs just $1.

Unless you’re staying in the most luxurious hotels, spending $30 a day is going to be difficult!

that

By Rohan of Travels of A Bookpacker

2023 Update: Due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, travel to Russia is not recommended as the US State Department and several other foreign agencies have issued a Level 4 Do Not Travel advisory. I leave this information in the post in the hope of better days for both Ukrainians and Russians, when citizens are safe and travel is possible again to both countries.

The biggest expense in Russia is the visa. Once you’re in, you can travel, eat, and sightsee very affordably.

I only spent time in Moscow and St. Petersburg but can assume other places are even cheaper.

Hostel rooms start at $5 and are decent quality. Couchsurfing also operates and is available in Russia.

The Moscow metro system is a tourist attraction in itself as the stations look like museums and you only pay 50 cents for an as-you-go ride.

There are also great free walking tours in both cities, which will help you get oriented and see some of the main sights.

We enjoyed the Space Museum in Moscow and strolled around the surrounding parks, which were filled with impressive statues and buildings.

Food in Russia is varied and although almost everything in the country is large-sized, portions can be quite small.

We followed the rules of budget travel (eat away from major attractions, check prices before entering, ask locals for recommendations) and ate delicious food for around $3-5 USD per meal.

Russia’s major cities are incredibly beautiful and impressive and can be easily visited for under $30 a day. 

Myanmar (Burma)

By Becki of Borders of Adventure

Update 2023: Due to the ongoing Myanmar civil war, I do not recommend visiting here at this time. In the hope of the future, I will keep this place on the list for better times.

Myanmar remains on the list of Southeast Asian countries with high travel budgets, but average daily prices have only inched up while still reaching tourism levels on par with its neighbors.

But not by much – I mean an extra $5-10 per day, depending on whether you share a room or not and the activities you choose.

The average cost for Myanmar is $35 a day, although it can be cheaper, including food, drink and accommodation. Buses cost between $10 and $15, which is your only incidental expense.

This can be adjusted depending on the type of travel you do. I share rooms with other solo female travelers I meet on the bus or with other travelers in a small group.

If you’re traveling alone, your main expense will be accommodation, a single room can cost around $25 or more per night if you can’t find a $10 dorm.

You can choose to eat street food or go to local eateries, instead of dining at larger restaurants. Nightlife is limited, helping to reduce spending on alcoholic beverages.

However, most of the tourist attractions here are free or very cheap – Myanmar is one of the cheapest countries to travel in the world.

My two best money-saving activities? Riding the Yangon circular train – a rural commute that, over several hours, will count as the best $1 you’ll ever spend.

And crossing the Goteik Viaduct – the highest railway bridge in Myanmar as you cross from Hsipaw to Pyin Oo Lwin – is an extremely expensive trip at $3.

Cheapest countries to travel in America

Mexico

By Crystal of Castaway with Crystal

Mexico is a great destination for budget travel! And it has it all! Mountains, waterfalls, beaches, surfing, diving, deserts.

If you have never been to a cenote – this is something you definitely need to try.

Even in the most expensive tourist areas you can still get cheap street food like chips and bargain hostels.

If you want it cheap and easy, if you want to do something fancy it’s easy too!

On average, a street food stall will cost around US$2 for a pretty decent dish.

In restaurants you can expect to pay between $7 and $20 for food and drinks. Beer at Oxxo general stores is around $1 a bottle and sometimes they even add lime to your Corona!

When drinking at a bar, you will pay around $5 USD for a drink.

For backpacker hostels, you can find some good ones for around $10 a night. If you are backpacking, expect to pay around $20-30.

As for getting around, you have a few options… You can take taxi collectivos (shared taxis) between cities for very cheap prices (from Playa del Carmen to Tulum, 2 hours for $4 US) or take the bus.

If you can speak Spanish, you can catch local buses for very cheap (from Mexico City to San Cristóbal de las Casas, 12 hours costs $15).

Alternatively, you can take a tour bus to most of the popular attractions (same trip as above, $40).

Obviously the longer you stay somewhere the easier it is to save money as travelling between places is a bit expensive. I spent about $10 a day living on an island.

But if you factor in travel and sightseeing costs, you can spend as little as $30 a day as long as you’re on a budget.

Nicaragua

By Ben and Jazzy of Road Affair

There is so much fun in backpacking in Nicaragua!

The best part is that you won’t have to spend too much money as Nicaragua is one of the cheapest countries to travel to in the Americas.

Of course if you do it right. Doing it right will cost about $25-30 a day including activities.

Nicaragua has plenty of fun activities, like rappelling down a volcano or riding a motorbike on Isla Ometepe.

You can also go diving in   the Corn Islands  , party until you drop in San Juan del Sur, or catch big waves at Maderas Beach.

Whatever your interests are, I’m sure you’ll find something fun to do there.

To give you an idea of ​​the costs in Nicaragua, a bed in a dormitory can cost as low as around US$6, and you can rent a single room for US$10.

Public transport within the city (chicken bus) costs US$0.30-0.50.

A full meal costs between $2 and $4. A local beer costs $1.30 and a mojito costs around $2.50.

Guatemala

By Ben and Jazzy of Road Affair

Backpacking in Guatemala is fun, memorable, and of course cheap.

The country’s vibrant and colorful culture and rich history attract thousands of backpackers every year.

After all, you can climb active volcanoes and stroll the cobblestone streets of a UNESCO World Heritage city, all from Antigua.

Additionally, you can enjoy a boat trip on one of the most beautiful lakes in the world (Lake Atitlan), take a Spanish language course, or visit the world’s most spectacular Mayan ruins (Tikal) on a budget of just $20 a day.

There are tons of cheap things you can do in Guatemala.

For $20 a day, a budget backpacker can drink a few beers, sleep in a cheap hotel, eat out twice a day, take local transportation to and from the hotel, and still have some change left in their pocket.

This is a backpacker’s paradise!

To give you an idea of ​​how much things cost in Guatemala, here are the average prices.

Dorm beds cost around $6-8 USD. Taking public transport within the city via chicken bus costs $0.40-1 USD.

A full meal costs around $2-4. The average entrance fee is around $13. A local beer costs $2 and bottled water is 50 cents.

A week-long, five-hour Spanish course will cost $120. It’s no wonder Guatemala is one of the cheapest backpacking countries in the Americas!

If Guatemala’s “cheap prices” don’t make you want to fly there right now, we’re pretty confident that its vibrant culture, rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique attractions will.

Panama

By Claudia of My Adventures Across the World

Panama is one of the most exciting tourist destinations in Central America and it is rapidly gaining popularity among tourists.

From Caribbean beaches with soft white sand and crystal clear water to Pacific beaches with crashing waves; from hiking trails in Boquete to the jazz festivals and scenic beauty of Panama City, there is something for everyone.

Panama is not the cheapest country to travel to in Central America, and the fact that the US dollar is the official currency may be a contributing factor.

But you can still do this trip on a backpacker budget, even in the most touristy places like Bocas del Toro.

Here, a bed in a dorm room costs around US$10 and a meal at a local eatery costs between US$3 and US$5.

Using public transport to get to the beach keeps costs down, while organised tours around the archipelago to the harder to reach places will be a bit more expensive.

The most expensive activity in Panama is the boat trip to San Blas and then on to Colombia.

The average cost for a 5-day trip is $550 USD and includes everything from transportation to food (but not drinks).

Many backpackers choose a sailing trip to cross the border as there are no land routes between Panama and Colombia and this is a good way to visit the San Blas Islands.

However, flying is the cheapest option.

Peru

By Jordan of Inspired by Maps

Peru in Quechua (the language of the Incas) means abundance and that is what you will find when you come here.

Rich in nature, culture, cuisine and warm weather.

There are stunning coastlines, vast deserts, picturesque mountains, AMAZON (and   hotels in the Amazon jungle  !) – really, they have it all!

One of the cradles of civilization – this exotic destination is newly rediscovered by tourism and prices everywhere outside of Machu Picchu reflect this!

Peru is one of the cheapest countries to travel to in South America. Dorms cost around $6 a night and private rooms cost $12 including a basic breakfast.

The set menu for lunch and dinner – common everywhere, keep an eye out for the blackboard – ranges from $2-4 including drinks!

An 8-hour night bus fare is around US$10, half the price of a daytime fare, while a taxi fare in most towns is around US$2.

Traveling here for under $30 a day is easy.

For those on a really budget, you can get by on $15 a day but $20-$25 would be more comfortable with a few extra luxuries!

Chile

By Viktoria of Chronic Wanderlust

Before traveling to Chile, I heard many travelers say that Chile would be very expensive compared to other Latin American countries.

So I set myself a higher budget for the month in Chile.

When I got there, I was surprised that the prices weren’t as expensive as I had heard.

It’s not the cheapest country to travel to in South America, but it’s still doable.

Hostel dorms are $10 a night. Of course it’s cheaper to buy groceries and cook at the hostel, but there are some cheap and delicious empanadas (and some really bad ones, so be prepared!) for cheap.

If you use long distance buses and take the night bus, you can save a night at a hostel.

The bus from San Pedro de Atacama to La Serena takes about 15 hours and costs US$22.

You can get by for $30 in Chile, but you won’t be able to afford that on Easter Island unless you camp somewhere (food is pretty expensive there).

On the other hand, on land, if you want to participate in some adventurous activities like skydiving, kayaking or volcano hiking, US$30 a day will not be enough.

To save money, you can still hike on many other trails and admire the stunning scenery yourself. 

Bolivia

By Raphael of Journey Wonders

Of all the South American countries I have visited, Bolivia is definitely one of the cheapest to travel to.

Usually, when you hear the word cheap, you think of something that is of low quality.

Trust me, the hotels and hostels in Bolivia are so comfortable that you won’t believe that a night in a private room sometimes costs less than $10 USD.

Did I mention the amazing $1 meals? For less than $20 a day, you can enjoy Bolivia as much as I do.

Some of my top Bolivia recommendations include the stunning Lake Titicaca shared with Peru, the picturesque Uyuni Salt Desert, and the isolated archaeological ruins of Tiwanaku located just outside the capital La Paz.

Ecuador

By Taylor of Travel Outlandish

While many people skip Ecuador because they don’t have the budget for a trip to the Galapagos, those who take the time to explore this mainland region will have a great time.

With dense forests teeming with wildlife, coastlines blessed with ideal waves, modern cities and culture-rich mountain towns, it seems like there’s something perfect here for any type of traveler.

So what makes Ecuador one of the cheapest countries to travel in South America? A backpacker can live on just $20 a day without having to cut corners too much!

With dorm rooms starting at just $5 and private rooms starting at $12, you can easily stay long-term in small towns and get around the city with ease.

The menu del dia   —the lunch menu—costs just $2-3, and beer is even cheaper at $1 for a large bottle.

While the buses aren’t the most comfortable we’ve ever been on, they’re pretty cheap, around $1-2 an hour. Adventures are easy to find, with plenty of free hikes, cheap bike rentals, and full-day trips starting at $20.

Even the most expensive trips (like a trip to the Amazon) can cost as little as $60/day.

If you are looking for amazing nature and a great place to travel in South America, take the time to experience all that Ecuador has to offer!

Colombia

By me

Colombia has a wide range of beautiful landscapes, from lush countryside with coffee plantations to Caribbean coastline.

Cartagena is particularly beautiful with its colonial charm. Hostels are some of the cheapest in Colombia, usually around $10 for a dorm room and around $20 for a private room.

It’s not the cheapest country to travel to in the world, but you get a lot for your money, making it great value.

Meals are also affordable, with delicious soups like ajiaco, the national dish, costing only around $4 for a delicious and filling meal.

Bogotá is a young and fun city, with cheap nightlife and abundant street art. Definitely worth a visit and easily doable for $25-30 a day!

Cheapest Countries to Visit in Africa

Ethiopia

According to Nicole of Travelgal Nicole

Ethiopia has something for everyone. It is a diverse country with something for everyone such as culture, history, food and wildlife.

One of my favorite cities in Ethiopia is Gondar in the north near the Simien Mountains.

It is often referred to as the Camelot of Africa because of what it was – the Emperor’s residence and the Enclosure and Royal Castle. Admission to the Enclosure is 100 birr ($4.50).

While Africa isn’t generally the cheapest place to travel, Ethiopia is an interesting exception.

Traveling around Ethiopia is fairly cheap with two-star hotel accommodation costing around $10/night for two people.

Local food is particularly cheap. I’ll start my morning with a proper Ethiopian coffee for 9 Birr (40 cents) and then move on to a healthy breakfast smoothie of mango and avocado with a squeeze of lemon for 10 Birr (50 cents).

Ethiopia also has fasting days, which means no meat, so the vegetarian options are great.

Most meat-based meals cost around $4 and meatless meals cost under $3. Most meals start with injera, a slightly sour Ethiopian bread!

Morocco

by João Leitão from Nomad Revelations

Located between Europe and Africa, Morocco is one of the most exotic destinations in the world.

The blend of Berber, Arab, African and European cultures gives the country that distinctive “je ne sais quoi” that makes people want to visit.

In addition to its rich and extensive history, Morocco also boasts pristine coastlines with stunning beaches, endless cedar forests, stunning waterfalls, desert landscapes with sweeping sand dunes, and snow-capped mountain peaks that soar above 13,000 feet.

What I love most about Morocco is the optimism, generosity and friendliness of its people. The bustling markets, the blue skies and the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables also caught my attention.

Here are some estimated costs for Morocco. A single room in a major city will cost $10-$15 per night. Breakfast, such as a bowl of fava bean soup or an omelet with bread and tea, can cost between 70 cents and $1.

Lunch and dinner can cost from 60 cents to $3, with options like fish sandwiches, harira soup and pastries, or meat tagines.

Transportation is also cheap; a four-hour train ride from Rabat to Marrakech costs about $13, and a four-hour bus ride will cost about $8. A backpacker can easily travel Morocco on $15 to $30 a day.

Egypt

According to Rohan of   Travels of a Bookpacker

Despite recent civil unrest, Egypt is still a great travel destination and it’s easy to budget travel even in the major cities.

Hostels in Cairo start at around $4 USD for a dorm room and are even cheaper elsewhere in the country.

The easiest and most efficient way to get around is to use Uber as it is cheaper than taxis and there are no language issues when you enter your pick up and drop off locations.

There are so many fun things to do in Egypt and most cost between $5-10, including the Pyramids of Giza!

There are a number of affordable tours in Luxor including the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple and Karnak Temple.

All prices are negotiable making it easy to find a bargain, especially since tourist numbers to Egypt are currently low.

We felt completely safe traveling in Egypt and used local trains and buses to get between cities.

An overnight train from Cairo to Aswan costs around $10, and although it only has seats, it’s still comfortable enough to get a nap.

Food here is extremely cheap, both on the street and at local and Western-style restaurants.

Overall, a backpacker can get by very comfortably on $20 a day including sightseeing costs, making this easily one of the cheapest countries to travel in Africa.

South Africa

By Emma of Luxury Backpacking

We LOVE South Africa — it’s without a doubt one of our top 3 favorite countries, simply because it never fails to impress us no matter how many times we visit.

There are many diverse attractions here: you can go hunting, wine tasting or even skiing in winter!

There are SO many unique and exciting activities you can participate in, like cage diving, skydiving, or canyoning.

For the more adventurous, head to see the third largest canyon in the world, which is truly breathtaking!

Plus, thanks to the exchange rate, South Africa remains incredibly cheap for foreign visitors!

You can rent a car for under US$20 a day, including insurance, and stay at a Kruger camp for around US$10 a day.

You can have a barbecue at local shops to save money and enjoy the surrounding scenery.

If you don’t want to rent a car, public transport is cheap and easy to navigate in cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town.

You can certainly make a lot of money in South Africa, and as long as you use common sense, South Africa is no more dangerous than most cities in the US!

Cheapest Countries to Visit in Europe

Estonia

By Natalia of My Trip Hack

Estonia – Lonely Planet’s best value destination of 2016. I have to admit that this country has exceeded my expectations in terms of the quality of experience it offers.

Apart from the fascinating natural landscape, the combination of architecture and friendly people, I also love Estonia for its connectivity.

Since Wi-Fi access plays an important role in choosing a destination these days, in e-Estonia you will find free Wi-Fi almost everywhere: from intercity buses to city streets.

Here is a breakdown of the expected travel costs. Hostels cost around €9-13. The average price is €10 even in high season.

My daily food budget is around 10€ (1-2€ for breakfast, 4-5€ for lunch, 3€ for cooked dinner).

A 2-course lunch at a canteen restaurant (e.g. LIDO) costs around €4.

You can also find great business lunches for around 4-6€ (outside Tallinn they are a bit cheaper).

In addition, the supermarket also sells pre-cooked meals if you want an extra discount.

Regarding transportation, in Tallinn you can buy a card for 1, 3 or 5 days. A 5 day card costs around 6€, which is around 1.20€ a day.

In Parnu, Tartu, Viljandi and other smaller towns everything is within walking distance.

For sightseeing, prices start from free to €5 per entry with a few exceptions. If you are a student, sightseeing and travel fees are discounted.

In summary, the cost of accommodation, food and transportation can be around 20-22€/day (about 21-23 USD).

Additionally, you can add attractions according to your interests. Read this Estonia travel guide to plan your trip better.

Lithuania

By Ruben of   Gamin Traveler

Lithuania is a special destination to visit when visiting the Baltic countries. There are many different plans to do in Lithuania.

Visiting the capital Vilnius was my first exposure to the country. There are beautiful beaches with white sand and warm water like Klaipeda.

That being said, my favorite place to visit is Trakai. It’s a quiet town with a castle inside an island, very beautiful and picturesque.

You can visit Lithuania for around $15-25 a day.

You can sleep in a hostel for $6-8 and you can get around for even less than a dollar. You can have a local meal for $3-4.

And if you want a beer, prices start from 1-2 dollars. Beer in Lithuania tastes great! 

In addition to being able to travel on a budget, Lithuanians are also very friendly. The scenery is beautiful and it is easy to meet locals.

Latvia

According to Skye of Skye Travels

If you are a budget traveler looking to visit Europe, you might consider visiting the Baltic states.

Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are often overlooked as holiday destinations. However, they are some of the most beautiful places in Europe.

One particularly important city to visit is Riga, Latvia. With its perfect climate, beautiful Old Town and rich culture, you will never want to leave.

Making your dollar (or $30) last is easy. There are dozens of hostels, all charging between $5-$10 a night.

Tourist restaurants will charge $10 for a plate of food, but local shops and street food will cost around $3 for a meal.

Be sure to check out the Riga Central Market. Or if you have a stable place to stay, you can buy a week’s worth of groceries for $30.

Admission is $5-10, although the best part – the free walking tour – is completely free (although you should tip!).

There isn’t as much to do in Riga as some European capitals, but you should know that the Old Town takes up less than 1% of the city’s total area.

You could easily spend a week there and not run out of things to do.

North Macedonia

According to Lance and Laura of Travel Addicts

One of the most affordable places we’ve ever been to was North Macedonia.

Most Balkan countries are cheap by European standards, but North Macedonia is particularly cheap.

You can easily travel around North Macedonia for less than $25 or $30 per day.

In both Skopje (the capital) and the Lake Ohrid area, hostels range from $8-14 for a shared room. You can find budget hotels for $20 a night with private bathrooms.

Meals are where you can stretch your budget!

An average meal, including a beer, costs around $4. You can have a 3-course meal for two for under $15.

We also found that many attractions were free or nearly free.

North Macedonia is a beautiful country with mountains, great wine regions and delicious food!

Bosnia and Herzegovina

According to Evan Kristine of Pretty Wild World,

you’d be surprised to know that it’s entirely possible to visit Europe without spending a fortune.

I know that Europe is an expensive place but trust me, it is huge with so many places unknown to the public that you can visit and save your budget, this will really amaze you.

Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, really amazed me!

I wasn’t sure if the city would be cheap or expensive because I didn’t research the costs beforehand and I was surprised.

A basic hostel will cost between 9-15€ a night, depending on the location and quality of the hostel of course.

However, I must say that the place I stayed was quite good value at 10€ a night and it was a really good hostel!

Food is also cheap, and you can get a cevapi with a beer for €5 – a bargain. Other activities like visiting the toboggan site and tunnels will cost around €15 for a private tour.

If you don’t fancy a private tour, the walk to the ski slopes takes about an hour or two and is free, while the tunnel entrance costs a few euros.

If you like nightlife, Sarajevo will not disappoint either, and you can enjoy local beer for one euro a pint.

You have to see for yourself but all the backpackers I met were amazed at how they managed to stretch their budgets while in Bosnia. It was amazing.

Albania

By Dave of Jones Around the World

I spent about 10 days exploring Albania last summer and I was truly amazed by this amazing country.

The people here are the friendliest I’ve ever met, and every destination I’ve been to is stunning!

Whether you’re looking for stunning lakes, majestic mountains or pristine beaches — Albania has it all.

The most important thing when traveling to Albania is to rent a car and explore on your own!

You can rent a car for quite cheap, especially if you travel during the low season.

While I love the whole country, I have to say that you definitely can’t miss Sarandë and the Albanian Riviera.

The average cost for a hotel is only $20-30 a night and you can have a great meal for less than $10!

If you are a backpacker, there are plenty of cheap hostels for other travelers for as little as $8-15 USD a night!

This is one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe. It is a beautiful country with lots to do and you certainly won’t spend too much money!

Ukraine

By Kami of Kami & The Rest of the World

NOTE: Currently, traveling to Ukraine is not recommended due to the ongoing war situation; this is a recommendation from 2018.

Due to the recent political situation and economic crisis, Ukraine is probably the cheapest country to travel to in Europe, or even the world.

The local currency – the hryvnia – is worth three times less than it was in 2013! On my last visit there for the first time, I felt bad about paying so little for almost everything.

A double room at the oldest hotel in Lviv (including a hearty breakfast) costs just $20/night, while a spacious apartment in the center of Kiev, which can accommodate up to four people, costs $30/night!

Eating out is very cheap, you can have a nice meal for as little as $5 and even if you choose a high end restaurant it’s still a price you can’t find anywhere else.

The cities in Western Ukraine have a great coffee culture, you can spend the whole day going around cafes and your bill can be as little as $10 at the end of the day!

Traveling around is an even better deal. An overnight train from Kiev to Odessa on the Black Sea costs just $5 in the cheapest class (but you still get a bed with sheets!).

Ukraine is a safe country to travel to as long as you stay away from the Donets region in the East and visiting it right now is the best idea!

Portugal

By Hugo of Breathe with Us

Portugal is one of the most attractive tourist destinations today.

Although a relatively small country, it has a long and rich history spanning nearly 900 years, interesting culture, countless beaches and great cuisine.

Plus, it’s one of the best value countries in Europe for travelers.

The hotspots are Lisbon, Porto and the south coast.

But if you’re looking for more, there are plenty of places worth exploring such as Évora, Coimbra, Aveiro, Guimarães, Braga or the Madeira and Azores archipelagos.

And these are just a few examples!

Portugal is an ideal destination and one of the best places for backpacking.

The food here is excellent quality, varied and not too expensive, a decent meal costs between 5 and 10€.

Prices are also reasonable. Accommodation starts from 10/15€ for a bed in a hostel and 35/50€ for a basic but decent hotel, depending on location.

Transportation, specifically trains and buses, are very punctual and inexpensive.

Spain

By Tom of The Traveling Tom

Spain is known as the land of sun and sangria, but it’s actually much more diverse than that.

You can find rugged mountains and deserts in the south; it’s a vast country with many wonderful contrasts.

Contrary to popular belief, Spain can be one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe, especially in low season!

A bed in a hostel can cost as little as 8 euros, while a 2-course lunch can cost as little as 7.90 euros in places like Valencia!

If you’re smart, you can travel around Spain comfortably and on a budget!

Kosovo

By Stefania from Every Steph – Green & Glamorous Travel

Kosovo may be the most underrated country in Europe and should definitely be on your destination list.

From chasing waterfalls to visiting mosques and sipping the best espresso outside of Italy, there’s plenty to do in this small country.

Don’t forget to add Prizren to your Balkan itinerary.

This beautiful little city has many UNESCO-listed monuments and mosques, friendly locals and a youthful atmosphere.

Try visiting the city in August, when Prizren hosts the DokuFest festival which attracts thousands of people to the city.

If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll soon realize that you can spend less than $25 a day in Kosovo.

Eating out will cost around $3-5, and a night in a hostel dorm room will cost around $10-12.

If you are travelling as a couple, sharing a double room will cost the same.

Public transport is also very cheap compared to other places in Europe: for example, a ticket from Pristina to Prizren costs only about $5.

Greece

By Cristina of LookNWalk Greece

Greece consistently ranks highly among budget travelers’ favorite destinations.

The capital Athens is a great place to explore during the low season, specifically from November to March.

There are hardly any tourists so everything is reasonably priced.

The abundance of historical sites will keep you busy for a long time (days!).

Don’t miss the chance to explore the Acropolis. There is a combination ticket (30 EUR or 31.40 USD) that allows you to visit six archaeological sites.

Book your hotel in advance, you will pay around 20 EUR / 21 USD per night for a double room in a hotel located near the center of Athens (Plaka and Acropolis).

If you don’t mind staying in a dormitory, you can find beds starting from 8 EUR.

For food, the cheapest option is the gyro (from 2 EUR), which is meat grilled on a skewer and served with pita bread, along with some vegetables. Coffees start at 1.50 EUR.

Don’t be afraid to ask people for advice; your best bet is to go to pubs that don’t have English menus.

Serbia

By me

Serbia is one of the cheapest destinations in the Balkans!

Even Belgrade, one of the most developed cities in the entire region, is extremely affordable to travel to.

I stayed at the wonderful Sun Hostel, just a few minutes walk from the city center, where I rented a private room for about $18 a night in high season.

Meals here are incredibly cheap, around $1-3 for “Serbian fast food” including delicacies like pljeskavica, essentially a Balkan burger.

I even went crazy and ordered a fancy sushi dinner after having severe Asian food withdrawal (it’s true, guys) – I only paid about $11 for two fresh loaves of bread and a beer!

Bus fares are about 50 cents a trip within the city, while bus fares between cities are usually $10-15.

Don’t forget to visit pretty, colorful Novi Sad, an hour north of Belgrade — you’ll be even better off when you get there!

Experience unique hostels at Varad Inn with luxury at affordable prices. For an affordable European experience in Southeast Asia, you can’t go wrong with the Balkans.

Note: All prices in this article are approximate and may change in the future as exchange rates and average costs change over time.