travel the country cheap

The 31 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2024

05/01/2024 by Kristin Addis 91 Comments

Which countries offer the most value? Where can you travel to in 2024 that will allow you to go for longer, enjoy a higher standard, and save more money?

I’ve traveled to over 65 countries over the past decade, and that on the ground research informs this list year after year.

The following are 31 destinations around the world that offer the essentials — accommodation, transportation, and food — for less:

Table of Contents

Our Favorite Cheap Destinations Quick List:

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

1. Laos, $30/day

Back in my  budget backpacking days around Southeast Asia , Laos was one of the two destinations where I was able to keep my budget at $30/day, even though accommodations were slightly more expensive than most places in Southeast Asia at that time. Many of the amazing activities you can do in Laos are very affordable. For example, I paid $2.50 to see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, $7 for a full-day tubing experience along the Vang Vieng river, and $6 for an awesome tiger-balm massage. You can also rent an inexpensive motorbike and venture off to smaller towns, where everything is even cheaper!

With more and more new hostels built to cater to the increasing number of backpackers, you can go for less money and for longer. However, if you have a bit more to spend, you can get a gorgeous room for closer to $35/night, which would easily cost $100 in the US.

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

– Read More –

A Complete Guide to Laos

2. Vietnam, $30/day

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

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

The Ultimate Backpacking Vietnam Route Planner

A Complete Guide to Vietnam

3. Cambodia, $30/day

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

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

READ NEXT:  23 Cheapest 5-Star Hotels around the World

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

A Perfect Cambodia Itinerary

A Complete Guide to Cambodi a

4. Northern Thailand, $32/day

The north of Thailand is easy on a tight budget. As one moves south, costs for accommodation start to double, triple, and even quadruple. Stay up north if you are short on time and money for your Thailand trip. Even in popular places like  Chiang Mai  and  Pai , you can easily find basic dorms for less than $7/night. If you stick with eating street food (to each her own, but why eat pasta when you can have pad thai, am I right?), not only will you save yourself some money, the experience will be much more authentic and tasty, too.

As far as activities go, you really do not need a lot of money to enjoy your day, as most activities such as visiting the White Temple, hiking, or gathering three other people from your hostel to rent a car and  go on some day trips , are all affordable.

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

Thailand Bucket List: 50 Best Things to Do

A Complete Guide to Thailand

5. Indonesia, $35/day

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

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

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

The Perfect Indonesia Itinerary for 2 Weeks to 2 Months

A Complete Guide to Indonesia

6. The Philippines, $37/day

The Philippine archipelago can cost quite a lot of money and time to get around, and the hostel options aren’t nearly as abundant as in other Southeast Asia countries. While these two factors seem like a big turn-off for travelers trying to stretch their budget as far as possible, there are ways to keep your costs there low. If you choose to travel during shoulder seasons, book your flights and plan your journey way in advance (it is not the country to always wing it!), and try to stick within 1-2 regions, the Philippines can still be affordable.

On top of that, the country has some of the  most gorgeous islands , beautiful dive sites,  affordable group island-hopping tours , and  hidden gems  that you’d have had to pay so much more to experience in other parts of the world. In that sense, the Philippines is worth every peso you spend.

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

The Perfect Philippines Itinerary

A Complete Guide to the Philippines

7. Malaysia, $40/day

Being one of the most economically developed Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia is often  perceived as expensive . On top of that, when I visited for the first time, a few people told me it wasn’t worth staying long. However, I ended up meeting lots of locals, was more able to communicate , and found more common ground with them than I had in Cambodia or Laos. I also had so much fun exploring Cameron Highlands,  the jungles of Borneo , and the gorgeous islands.

The cherry on top?  They were all affordable . An overnight bus from Kuala Lumpur to the Perhentian Islands costs as little as $15. There are also so many interesting local neighborhoods and markets that are free to explore. Finally, Malaysian cuisine is like no other — you can find food from just about any culture, and it’s so cheap and tasty (but not necessarily healthy). Malaysia is also one of the cheapest places in the world to get a PADI scuba diving certificate .

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

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

The Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

A Complete Guide to Malaysia

8. Sri Lanka, $35/day

Like many countries, Sri Lanka can be seen on  a backpacker budget , or one can spend a small fortune there. The biggest kicker was the price of activities, such as safaris, and admission into the UNESCO World Heritage sites.  With each running about $40-$50 per ticket, this made Sri Lanka more expensive to fully explore.

That said, Sri Lanka can be done on closer to $30 per day on the days that you don’t pay for expensive activities. Food, transport, accommodation, and the internet are relatively cheap. One thing to note about transportation is that in some cases, taking a taxi or Uber (in major cities) can be cheaper than renting a bike. Hiring a driver for the day can be as low as $5 per person if you can find people in your hostel to split the cost. The cheapest transportation is the train, which is delightful and (IMO) the best way to travel through Sri Lanka.

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

Sri Lanka’s Best  Plac es to Visit

A Complete Guide to Sri Lanka

9. Nepal, $25/day ($15/day if trekking)

Nepal is a very cheap country to travel through, with most food, accommodation, and transport running just a few dollars if you eat, sleep, and travel using local options. The street food in Nepal does not have the best reputation, though I never seem to get any stomach problems eating it. You can get cheap and delicious home-cooked meals in local-run small cafés though.

Be very mindful when you book your accommodation online, as big corporations have taken over homestays and turned them into boutique hotels and resorts, so the “local guesthouses” you’ve booked may very well be part of a big hotel chain. I suggest booking the first couple of nights online, and looking for accommodation from real local guesthouses when you arrive.

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

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

A Complete Guide to N epa l

10. Taiwan, $45/day

Two words: street food, which is delectable and ridiculously cheap. For less than $2, you can get a plate of fragrant rice with pork or chicken on top, a large deep-fried chicken chop, or a bowl of yummy vermicelli with oysters. If you are a foodie on a budget, you know where to go!

In cities like Taipei and Tainan, you can register for city bikes, which cost less than $0.50 per hour per ride and are free for the first 30 minutes. This means you can possibly get around the city all day without spending any money on transportation at all.

That said, high-end food and clothing prices in Taiwan can sometimes be at US levels. Intercity traveling is either expensive on the high-speed rail (HSR) or time-consuming (if slightly cheaper). The internet is also not as cheap as in the countries above.

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

That One Time I Became an Illegal Alien in Taiwan

11. India, $30/day

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

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

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

Solo Female Travel Stories: Archana from India

12. Kyrgyzstan, $25/day

Kyrgyzstan is the country of choice for most travelers interested in trying out Central Asia, and thus most well-suited to  travelers of all budgets . The cuisine is cheap and interesting, and so is getting around using the minibuses. Public transportation prices are fixed and are probably the cheapest aspect of traveling in Kyrgyzstan. If you are doing a multiday hike like the  Tian Shan Mountains , the tour price should include most things.

As for accommodation, you can find hostels in major destinations and local homestays in more rural places for less than $10/night.

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

A Quick Guide to Kyrgyzstan

13. Uzbekistan, $35/day

I bet Uzbekistan wasn’t originally on your radar when it comes to cheapest places to travel, but I’m here to tell you that it should be. This Central Asian country has so much to offer , including stunning architecture, the legendary Silk Road, and an awesome blend of old and new. And the best part? It’s incredibly budget-friendly. We’re talking $20 for food and drinks in even the fanciest of restaurants. On top of that, Uzbekistan is one of the safest countries to travel in , and the locals are known for their welcoming hospitality. Win-win!

• Meals:  $8–10 per day
• Accommodation: $8–10 per night in a hostel dorm
• Transportation:  $1 for a subway day ticket in Tashkent, or $9 for a high-speed train ticket
• SIM card with data: $3 for 8GB of data with 30-day validity

Things I Wish I Knew before Visiting Uzbekistan

14. Romania, $40/day

If you are planning a  European trip that’s affordable  and a little bit off the beaten path, Romania is perfect for you. While the country is known for Dracula, many charming towns and free activities remain unknown to most foreigners. Whether you’re taking a long stroll through the medieval villages or people-watching in one of the beautiful parks, Romania is great for anyone after a European experience on a budget. You can also make use of the free walking tours to check out the numerous historical sites.

Hostels run $10–15 per night, and the food is hearty and scrumptious (a money-saving tip: have your breakfast at the hostel, have a big hearty lunch, and cook your own dinner — it’s easy and affordable to get fresh produce from the local market, so make sure your hostel has a kitchen!). Public transportation is reliable and affordable.

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

The Top 14 Cheapest European Countries to Visit

15. Georgia, $30/day

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

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

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

16. Greece, $45/day

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

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

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

Elafonisi Beach, Greece: The Ultimate Travel Guide

31 of the Absolute Best Things to Do in Greece

17. Czechia, $40/day

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

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

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

15 of the Best European Cities to Visit in December

18. Poland, $44/day

It’s a shame that Poland is often overlooked by tourists. It’s one of those countries where you can easily spend an entire day just wandering and people-watching. There will be days when you spend nothing else but on essentials.

If you are a fan of heritage sites, Poland, rich with culture and history, has 14 to offer. It costs an average of $5 to enter museums and historical sites, which is fairly affordable by European standards. The cuisine is delicious and has a bit more variety than its neighboring countries, though it’s still heavy on the calories. (Make sure to eat at a “milk bar,” an affordable yet tasty option that’s popular with locals.)

The trains are a bit dated but cost very little. Go beyond Krakow and Warsaw, and explore other smaller towns like Gdansk, Wroclaw, and Zakopane, which are all stunning and possibly even cheaper to travel in.

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

19. Croatia, $50/day

If you like turquoise waters, sunshine, and parties,  look no further than Croatia  for your next budget trip. There are thousands of islands off the mainland, excellent weather from May to October, and beach and yacht parties year-round. There is also beautiful architecture to marvel at, interesting sights such as the  Museum of Broken Relationships , and cute small towns to explore.

The essential expenses, including accommodation, transportation, and food, all come with a reasonable price tag. To travel in Croatia on a budget, you need a similar approach to Greece — go in the shoulder season. July and August are the country’s busiest months, so avoid them if possible. Also, keep your island-hopping to a group, to minimize transfers. Since Croatia is gaining more popularity each year, expect prices to keep rising, and aim to visit sooner than later if you want to snag a deal.

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

20. Turkey, $45/day

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

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

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

21. Lithuania, $44/day

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

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

22. Estonia, $44/day

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

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

23. Latvia, $47/day

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

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

The Americas

24. mexico, $42/day.

From  Tulum  to  Baja California , Mexico is full of  endless adventures . This vast country is rich in culture, nature, and some of the best food in the world. Though it does not have the best reputation  as far as safety goes , most violence takes place in certain areas, and Mexico has  plenty of safe places to explore .

The best news? It’s easy to travel in Mexico on a budget. For less than $20, you will be able to explore  at least five stunning cenotes , like the one in the picture above; for less than $3, you can devour delicious street food like tacos (I love tacos), quesadillas, and tortillas;  the white-sand beaches  are essentially free; and the hospitality? — priceless.

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

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

Solo Female Travel Guide to Mexic o

A Complete Guide to Mexico

25. Nicaragua, $35/day

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

For outdoor lovers, Nicaragua is great for surfing, volcano hiking, and diving. For a more relaxing journey, the colonial cities are beautiful to take a stroll in, and there are plenty of gorgeous beaches to lie on all day on. the cuisine is cheap and tasty, albeit repetitive. There are hostels all over, so you don’t have to worry about finding cheap accommodation.

One thing to note is that there are unfortunately safety concerns, so check  the official advisory site  and be your own judge before going.

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

26. Guatemala, $38/day

For an amazing Central American adventure on a budget, check out Guatemala. A visit there is no complete without seeing the beautiful  Lake Atitlán , but that’s not all — the country is covered in lush jungles, volcanos, and ruins, ideal for outdoor lovers. When you need a break from outdoor sports, colonial cities like  Antigua  or unique spots like  Hobbitenango  will capture your heart with their stunning architecture and cobblestone streets.

Local food is delightful and affordable, at about $3 for a full meal (except in Antigua, where prices are actually close to US levels).

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

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

27. Colombia, $35/day

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

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

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

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

Some quick tips on saving money:

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

A Complete Guide to Utah

A Complete Guide to Arizona

READ NEXT: The Cheapest 5-star hotels in the USA

29. South Africa, $42/day

If you are traveling on US dollars or euros, the exchange rate alone will do you a big favor. At this time of writing, one South African Rand is equal to six cents US.

Any hostel, guesthouse, or tourist accommodation in South Africa is called a “backpackers,” and they are typically in beautiful settings and have a unique personality, not to mention they are  affordable too . Food is where the big budget eater or saver can be, as it can get expensive in South Africa. To save money, cook your own food. Grocery stores are plentiful and have reasonable prices. By at least preparing your own breakfast and the occasional dinner, you can save a lot.

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

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

What Does It Cost to Travel in South Africa?

A Complete Guide to South Africa

30. Namibia, $45/day

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

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

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

The Perfect Namibia Road Trip Itinerary

A Complete Guide to Namibia

31. Egypt, $30/day

Pyramids, ancient temples, and royal palaces once inhabited by pharaohs make Egypt seem like it would come at a high price. However, the reality is that this Middle Eastern country can be surprisingly affordable for travelers. One of the biggest expenses in Egypt is getting there, but with some planning and flexibility, you can find decently priced flights to Cairo or Luxor. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find that hostels and guest houses, food, and transportation costs are surprisingly affordable, especially if you avoid resort cities like Hurghada.

• Meals : $3–5 per meal
• Accommodation : $10–15 per night for a dorm room
• Transportation : $0.50 for a ride on a local bus
• SIM card with data : $2.81 for 12GB with a 30-day validity

Is Egypt Safe?

How Low Can You Go?

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

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

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

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Nicoline says

01/03/2019 at 11:00 pm

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

Kristin says

01/05/2019 at 9:12 am

It must be!

01/04/2019 at 9:09 pm

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

Good to know! Thank you!

Anonymous says

04/25/2021 at 5:55 pm

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

Jessa L says

06/10/2019 at 2:35 am

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

06/10/2019 at 6:54 am

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

09/09/2019 at 11:01 pm

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

01/17/2023 at 3:56 am

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

Marissa says

01/20/2020 at 12:45 pm

Agreed. Kristen

Daniel says

01/11/2024 at 9:22 am

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

Kristin Addis says

01/11/2024 at 4:08 pm

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

04/19/2020 at 11:09 pm

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

06/07/2020 at 10:28 pm

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

If you don’t believe me read this article:

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

07/29/2021 at 8:16 pm

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

Hugo Lindum says

02/07/2022 at 6:15 am

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

12/21/2023 at 1:14 pm

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

Jonene Oxford says

02/25/2023 at 3:45 pm

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

Mohsen Ghiasi says

06/14/2019 at 7:48 am

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

06/15/2019 at 9:17 am

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

mark doty says

07/01/2020 at 6:18 pm

who in their right mind would go to Iran?

09/23/2020 at 1:33 pm

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

02/07/2022 at 6:16 am

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

06/18/2019 at 7:45 am

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

06/18/2019 at 9:12 am

06/19/2019 at 9:36 am

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

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

06/19/2019 at 10:09 am

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

Leena Malhotra says

06/23/2019 at 1:28 am

What about Russia ?

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

06/23/2019 at 9:45 am

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

07/11/2019 at 5:59 am

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

08/02/2019 at 12:27 pm

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

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

Each city offers so much to see and do.

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

08/03/2019 at 5:14 am

Thanks for the info!

07/17/2019 at 1:56 pm

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

07/18/2019 at 12:05 pm

Agreed I love it there.

Brad Carss says

07/30/2019 at 6:57 pm

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

Augustin says

08/03/2019 at 2:16 am

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

08/03/2019 at 5:13 am

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

08/03/2019 at 3:12 am

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

08/03/2019 at 5:12 am

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

MikesRoadTrip says

08/05/2019 at 7:14 am

Really great piece!

08/17/2019 at 12:14 pm

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

08/17/2019 at 12:19 pm

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

08/30/2019 at 7:47 pm

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

09/02/2019 at 9:50 am

I’d love to visit!

Marianne says

10/09/2019 at 3:24 am

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

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

10/09/2019 at 10:22 am

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

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

Ian Culbertson says

10/13/2019 at 5:15 pm

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

10/19/2019 at 12:02 pm

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

marla braden says

11/09/2019 at 11:18 am

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

11/10/2019 at 11:36 am

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

Renuka Walter says

12/06/2019 at 5:13 am

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

12/06/2019 at 11:06 am

I’d love to experience India!

Md. Shakhawat Hossain says

01/08/2020 at 11:31 am

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

Thank you very much.

01/08/2020 at 7:01 pm

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

neymasport says

01/14/2020 at 8:18 pm

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

Nikola Webster says

01/22/2020 at 6:10 pm

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

01/22/2020 at 8:12 pm

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

Doona Neace says

02/04/2020 at 1:44 am

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

02/15/2020 at 6:31 pm

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

02/16/2020 at 10:55 am

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

05/03/2020 at 11:11 am

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

takeoffwithme says

05/08/2020 at 7:21 am

Very nice article. Will be really helpful for backpackers

Vaishnavi Omprakash Jadhav says

07/08/2020 at 4:38 am

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

Samson says

08/21/2020 at 5:38 am

How is the Covid-19 situation there?

08/21/2020 at 5:39 am

How is the Covid-19 situation in India?

08/29/2020 at 4:32 am

Great article. Thanks

Greg Christensen says

09/03/2020 at 9:11 am

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

09/03/2020 at 9:40 am

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

Amogue says

09/15/2020 at 3:54 am

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

10/09/2020 at 2:22 pm

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

Michelle says

11/30/2020 at 12:03 pm

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

12/03/2020 at 8:57 am

Good to know!

Catherine says

05/16/2021 at 5:54 am

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

01/12/2023 at 8:24 pm

Did that happen in North India?

08/17/2023 at 3:52 am

Only in Punjab . Rest of India is very safe

Linniey???? says

05/22/2021 at 7:51 pm

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

Tina Hallmark says

07/15/2021 at 2:27 pm

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

07/17/2021 at 12:40 pm

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

05/25/2024 at 1:15 pm

Malaysia,muslim country, respectful (i cannot remember one time the call to prayers through loud speakers from the Masjid,like inTurkey ,to wake you up) ,nice roads, good infrastructures,cheap tolls on expressways,good variety of landscapes,mountains (hills as they call them) in the north, definetly mountains, to cool off, a lot of coast lines, a big variety of cuisines, prices quite reasonable overall, you can bargain ,a lot of people speak English (previously British colony of Malaya),ONLY country in south east Asia where you can buy outright a piece of land or an house or start a business without having a partner or local spouse, politically stable and quite safe, compared to the many neighbours and others places in the world. If you drink, it is widely available but heavily taxed ! And gasoline is very cheap as well but cars are not so but definitely cheaper that Singapore, world record !

02/20/2022 at 4:29 pm

03/01/2022 at 11:02 pm

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

03/02/2022 at 11:19 am

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

12/21/2023 at 1:21 pm

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

07/14/2022 at 9:22 pm

Ukraine really?

07/23/2022 at 11:50 am

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

Grace Christopher says

01/22/2023 at 9:01 am

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

01/26/2023 at 6:38 am

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

07/01/2023 at 9:54 am

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

Austin A. McCary says

06/02/2023 at 8:27 pm

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

Mani Venkat says

05/09/2024 at 2:59 am

Nice blog!!! Thanks for information

Cammie says

08/19/2024 at 4:44 pm

Thanks for all the great info!

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Happy Healthy Nomads

Digital Nomad Travel Blog

How to Travel Cheap in 2024 (31 Easy Proven Ways)

Last updated: October 21, 2024 by Allan • In: Budget Travel , Travel Tips • Leave a Comment

Hi! This page contains affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting our blog!

Is your budget holding you back from traveling? We traveled the world for years without income or big savings. You just need to know how to travel cheap!

But don’t worry we will share all our top tips on how to travel cheap on a budget in this blog post. They are divided into 4 key areas that you can focus on to keep costs down:

• Transport 🚐
• Accommodation 🏠
• Food 🌮
• Activities 🥾

If you have nailed those down you will be able to travel the world for as long as you want! Sounds good? Let’s dive straight in!

TRANSPORT 🚐

1. travel slowly (easiest way to travel cheap).

It may seem counteractive but the easiest way to travel cheap is to travel longer and slowly. Because if you aren’t moving then you are not spending money on expensive flights, trains, and buses. Makes sense, right?

Most travelers including us come to the conclusion that it is better and cheaper to travel slowly for multiple reasons once they travel for longer:

• It saves money
• You really get to know the place
• You will make friends with locals

A good way to travel cheap and slow is to find a low-budget travel country like Mexico that has a lot to see and do. Then spend as much time as possible there.

We spent 2 years working and moving around Mexico and found that we liked to spend 1 month in each destination. That way we cut down costs on transport and accommodation big times. Plus, Mexico offers a 6-month tourist visa!

Quite often you get weekly and monthly discounts on Airbnb, sometimes you get an entire week for free when booking for 4 instead of 3 weeks!

When you stay longer in a location you also get to know the language and culture better, where the cheapest food is, and how locals live. Traveling slowly is therefore one of the key tips you can do to get more bang for your buck.

Read also: 🇲🇽 13 Reasons to visit Mexico City for First-Timers 💃 18 Awesome Free Things to do in Mexico City 🧑‍💻 13 Best Cities in Mexico for Digital Nomads

2. Use Ride Sharing Apps

Depending on where you are in the world ride-sharing apps such as BlaBlaCar can be a great way to travel cheap without a car. It’s also the cheapest way to travel by car.

How it works? If someone is driving somewhere and they have a spare seat in the car they put an ad up. The ad will show the price for the ride, the departure time, and the pick-up point. You can pay via the app or at the pick-up point.

Ride-sharing can often be faster and cheaper than public transport plus you will spend time with locals or other travelers on board.

BlaBlaCar is a great option to travel cheap in Europe and Latin America . We used it many times in Mexico and it was usually faster and more comfortable than the bus. You just have to make sure your driver is trustworthy (check the reviews) and shows up.

Another ride-sharing app you can try is Indrive which works more like Uber 👇

3. Book in Advance

This is no secret but can’t be missed on a list of how to travel cheap. If you book in advance you follow the most cost-effective way to travel. Whether it’s booking flights, buses, or trains it is usually a lot cheaper if you book ahead of time.

By booking our flights to New Zealand 8 months in advance we saved at least 500 USD per person one-way! You just have to commit and stick to it.

Our favorite transport booking sites: ✈️ K iwi.com 🚊 Trainline 🚌 Busbud 🚗 Rentalcars.com 🚲 Bikesbooking.com 📲 Omio (Transport Search Engine)

4. Be Flexible with your Dates

This is one of the biggest mistakes that I have seen people make when booking flights. If you want to get cheap flight tickets then being flexible with your date is one of the biggest money-saving hacks there is!

A lot of people will decide that they are going to fly out on a certain date and only check flights for this day. But especially on long-distance flights you can save hundreds if you are flexible and also look up flights a few days before or after your desired travel date.

That’s why whenever I am searching for flights I use the flight search engines Kiwi.com or Skyscanner as they allow me to search by month. You will be shown a calendar with the price for each date. Then I choose the date that works the best for me with the best price!

How to search per month? ✈️ 1. Go to Kiwi.com or Skyscanner 2. Choose One-way or Return 3. Fill in From and To 4. Click on Departure 5. Click on the gray button above the calendar that states the month 6. Click on Set Dates and Explore and voilà you will get shown the cheapest flight days in the selected month for your destination!

👉 Try it yourself 👈

5. Be Flexible with your Destination

Being flexible with your destination is one of the best ways to travel cheap. This tip will allow you to save money by being adventurous and spontaneous.

On Kiwi.com and Skyscanner you can select “Anywhere” as your destination. If you do this for a particular date or month it will show you the cheapest places to go traveling leaving your departure city.

This way you may find some extremely cheap travel options you may not have considered. The first time I tried this I was in Copenhagen and the cheapest buses or trains to interesting destinations close by were around 80 USD.

But then I found a flight to Belgrade, Serbia for 15 USD! So I went to Belgrade and had a great time. If it wasn’t for the super cheap flight I never would have gone there. So being flexible and adventurous can be super fun and saving money at the same time.

How to search Anywhere? ✈️ 1. Go to Kiwi.com or Skyscanner 2. Choose One-way or Return 3. Fill in From 4. Type “Anywhere” in the To field 5. Select departure (you can use the monthly hack as described above!) 6. Hit Explore and voilà you will see the cheapest flight destinations for your departure city

6. Avoid Peak Season

The prices for flights and accommodation in the peak travel season of any destination often increase dramatically. So travel smart and off-seasonal!

Most travelers avoid the off-season because that’s often the “bad weather season” . But we have spent months in rainy seasons and it was way sunnier than people would expect.

Going to beach destinations outside the high season is not only cheaper but the experience is much better. There are usually far fewer people and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Particularly if you are a digital nomad there is no reason to be somewhere in peak season as you can move where and when you want. So do your research and try to travel as much as possible in low or mid seasons.

Read here: Best off-the-beaten-path destinations 🤫

7. Pack Light

Many people bring way too much luggage on their trip. But even a 2-month trip can be done with carry-on if you get creative and pack smart. Our tip is: Pack as if you would go on a 7-day trip. Just because you travel longer doesn’t mean you need more stuff or clothes.

After years of full-time traveling, we found that we don’t need much more on a 1-year trip than on a long weekend trip. Assuming you don’t go to super cold countries. Everything you haven’t used in 7 days on your trip can be removed from your luggage. Try it out!

Why? Airlines charge as much as 50 USD one-way for 1 piece of check-in luggage. We have even seen trains and buses charging for luggage. So if you take multiple trips a year saving that money per trip will help you cut down costs.

Traveling light will also free you up when moving around and put less strain on your body. Plus, without check-in luggage, you save time at the airport before and after departure.

Afraid of losing your luggage or want to insure your electronics? Check out SafetyWing travel insurance. It’s cheap! Read about our experience plus other options  here  🎒 Or calculate your fee easily here 👇

8. Change Home Country on Skyscanner

This is a tip that I discovered by accident while using Skyscanner . While in Mexico the home country of my account was set to the UK. I randomly decided to change it to Germany to see what happened and the prices all became cheaper!

You will have to play around and try different countries . But it can quite often lead to saving a bit of money which adds up and allows you to travel cheap like a pro.

How to change the country on Skyscanner? ✈️ 1. Go to Skyscanner 2. Click on the Earth symbol in the right-upper corner (next to Login) 3. Change the Country/Region and search for flights 4. Do this multiple times to compare prices 5. Optional: Play around with the Language and Currency Settings e.g. select “Spanish” and “Pesos” when looking for Mexican destinations 6. And voilà you may find the same flight 50 USD cheaper!

9. Use Incognito Mode when Booking Flights

You may have noticed that when you return to flight search engines such as Kiwi.com or Skyscanner a short time after you looked up flights there the prices have gone up!

This is because websites keep cookies when you visit the site and if you return they raise the prices on your browser. This is to make you worry that the prices will go up even further and you will buy the tickets straight away.

But if you switch to Incognito mode on Google Chrome you will find that the prices stay the same. Even better would be to use a VPN but Incognito mode helps on a basic level.

How to switch to Incognito? 🕵️‍♀️ 1. Click on the 3 vertical dots on the upper right-hand side of Google Chrome (next to your profile pic) 2. Click on “New Incognito Window” and voilá you can now go to Kiwi.com or Skyscanner and start comparing prices incognito – works on the phone too!

10. Take Cheap Public Transport

When you are in a new city it can be daunting to figure out the public transport system. Especially if you can’t speak the language. But taking taxis and Uber everywhere will get expensive very quickly in most countries.

I challenge you to take public transport at least once if it is safe. It’s the cheapest way to travel long distance and you get a better idea of what local life is like. In Latin America and Asia, a public transport ride in a city often costs less than 50 cents!

But in some areas such as Cape Town , Uber is so cheap it is by far the best and safest option, plus their public transport is terrible! So you will have to learn as you go but give public transport a go (especially to and from the airport!) whenever possible.

Read also: Best digital nomad destinations 🧑‍💻

11. Check Taxi Prices ahead of Time

If you are in a new country and you can’t book an Uber it is always good to know how much a taxi should cost before stepping into one. Taxis at airports are one of the most likely places for you to be ripped off.

Ask a local or at the hostel reception how much a ride should be or google ahead of time. This will save you money but also a lot of stress, especially after a long-distance flight.

🚕 Another ride-sharing app you can try instead of a taxi is Indrive which works like Uber but you set the price 👇

ACCOMMODATION 🏠

12. stay in hostels.

My number one tip to save money particularly if you are traveling solo is to stay in a hostel. Not only are dorm beds way cheaper but you have the chance to meet fellow travelers and make friends along the way.

Some people do not like to share a room with strangers and I won’t lie you will have to sacrifice some comforts. It is also highly likely you will have someone snoring next to you. But some of my greatest travel memories came from staying in hostels!

Also if you are traveling with someone else, a lot of hostels have private rooms that are often cheaper than hotels. Sometimes they are even cheaper than two bunk beds in a dorm. So depending on the hostel they can be a cheap way to travel as a couple.

We book most our hostel stays on Hostelworld 👇

13. Check Multiple Booking Sites

I have always found that when booking accommodation prices can vary quite drastically between booking sites. So when trying to book a cheap hotel or a guest room, always check multiple sites including their own website!

For booking hostels I recommend Hostelworld and Booking.com . Sometimes it is cheaper on one or the other. Sometimes Booking.com will also have private rooms to rent in people’s homes, similar to Airbnb but cheaper.

Our favorite accommodation booking sites: 😴 Booking.com (Hotels) 🛌 Hostelworld (Hostels) 🏠 Airbnb (Private rooms) 🌎 Expedia (Search Engine) 🌎 Agoda (Search Engine) 🌎 Trip.com (Search Engine) 🌎 Tripadvisor (Search Engine)

14. Use Airbnb right

Airbnb is one of the most used booking sites for finding a room or a whole place to stay. But if you don’t use it right it can quickly burn a hole in your wallet. We have 2 hacks we always use to find the cheapest price:

Always check and compare how much your stay would be if you booked for 1, 2 or 4 weeks instead of 5 or 10 nights for example. That way we got once 92% off! No kidding. In Antigua, Guatemala our Airbnb would have cost about 45 USD a night but since we booked for a month we got it for 120 USD in total!

That’s an incredible example and doesn’t happen often but almost every time we booked 1, 2 or 4 weeks instead of less we got up to 1 week stay for free! That’s because most hosts give weekly and monthly discounts . Off-season that can easily be up to 50%! Stays under 1 week are mostly the most expensive stays, so always try to round up.

When looking for the cheapest options use the Airbnb integrated map. But make sure you filter for the price , for example, max 30 USD a night. That will drastically reduce the search results and show only the cheapest accommodations.

You can play around with the price depending on the destination. Go for the lowest possible price per night and work your way up. We found that if you look on the map without this filter the cheapest places are often hidden by the more expensive ones and don’t even show up!

Extra Tip: Make sure you book an Airbnb with kitchen access so you can cook your own food and make a coffee – that will reduce your spending big times!

Read also: Cheap & healthy food hacks for travelers 🥑🤫

15. Do Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a great option to get free accommodation if you are interested in meeting locals and don’t mind sharing a space with another person.

On the Couchsurfing website hosts will offer to sleep at their place for free . This will often be a couch, a mattress, or a spare bed. No strings attached!

But it is considered good manners to do something nice in return to the host like cook them some food or cover a drink but this is totally optional.

I used Couchsurfing in Norway as all accommodation prices were super expensive and it ended up being a great experience . So I can highly recommend it!

Read also: 5 Ways to get free accommodation 🏠

16. Volunteer on Workaway

Workaway is an online platform where you can get free accommodation in exchange for volunteer work. That can be farm work, animal care, hostel work, gardening, etc.

The accommodation can vary from a bed in a dorm room to your own studio with its own kitchen. But you will find all the details in the host’s ad.

We used this platform to travel around Mexico for several months and not pay for accommodation once. We would spend a minimum of 1 month with each host doing babysitting, artwork, and helping with rental properties and tours.

Workaway enables you to travel for free and get paid occasionally! Its main intention is to work without payment in exchange for a place to sleep but we earned some pocket money by doing extra work for our hosts. Try it out!

Read also: How to secure a gig on Workaway 💪

17. Do Pet sitting (Our Favorite Way to Travel Cheap!)

If you love pets then pet sitting is a great way to get free accommodation . In return for looking after the owner’s pets, you will get to stay at their house while they are away.

Of course, you should only do this if you love pets! The hosts are putting their trust in you so you should only apply if you truly like spending time with animals. Plus it can be quite a lot of work depending on the sit. But is also fun and rewarding, we love it.

There are several sites where homeowners look for pet sitters including Facebook. But after trying a few we found TrustedHouseSitters to be the best! No matter if you are traveling solo, as a couple or family, or with your own pet you will find a sit.

We find pet sitting is perfect for digital nomads who are looking for how to travel cheap on a budget. Through TrustedHouseSitters, we have had the chance to stay in amazing homes around the world for free: Caribbean, Mexico, Spain, London – just to name a few!

Sign up to Trusted House Sitters via this link for free + use code HAPPYHEALTHYNOMADS at checkout for a 25% discount on your yearly membership! 🐶 Read about our experiences here.

18. Use Facebook Marketplace

In any countries around the world like Latin America looking into Facebook groups can be a good place to find cheap accommodation, particularly for long-term rentals.

While in Mexico we saw that many people listed their properties for rent on Facebook marketplace. They were much cheaper than Airbnb as long as you want to stay long-term.

Facebook groups are also a great place to look for tips and advice when moving to a new city. If you are a digital nomad looking up the local Facebook page of a city is a helpful place to find the best areas to live, food tips, doctors and connect with other newbies.

Overall Facebook can be a great way to enrich your travel experience and allow you to travel cheap if you use it in the right way.

Want to share a meal with locals? Check out Eatwith where locals host a traditional meal in their home 🍽️ Not as cheap as cooking yourself but an experience 👇

FOOD 🌮

19. cook on the road.

Enjoying the local cuisines is one of the best parts of traveling. But in most countries, you are going to save a lot of money by cooking your meals at home rather than eating out.

When we are looking for accommodation even if it is just for a few days we always make sure there is a kitchen to use. Then once we arrive we ask around and find out where the cheapest supermarket or local market is and load up on groceries.

Not only does this save you money but it ensures that you can cook fresh & healthy. Whereas if you are eating out it can be a lot harder to find healthy meals for a good price.

Tip: Master a few dishes, for example, a simple lentil pot with ingredients that are found everywhere in the world and don’t take too long. We always travel with a small bag of curry powder so we can cook a tasty meal no matter where we are.

Read also: 10 Easy Hacks to Eat Healthy & Cheap while Traveling 🥑

20. Make Coffee at Home

When I first started traveling I would always go out and grab a couple of coffees a day. But soon I realized that the cost of buying them daily quickly adds up . Plus, the coffee often wasn’t even that good and takeaway isn’t sustainable.

Now I always make coffee in the morning wherever I am staying. I only head out to a cafe on special occasions or if I need a place to work. This way I enjoy it much more and save a bunch of money.

Also if you want to travel cheap stay away from Starbucks! Their coffees are expensive and not that great. If you are going out for coffee while traveling head to a local cafe , try some locally grown beans, and enjoy every sip.

We learned all about coffee in Latin America : 🧑‍🌾 From Tree to Cup: This is how Coffee is made! ☕️ 12 Best Cafes in Laureles, Medellin ☕️ 14 Best Cafes in Antigua, Guatemala 💛 Do you like our tips? Say thanks with a coffee here!

21. Travel with a Reusable Water Bottle (Sustainable Way to Travel Cheap)

This tip is both a sustainability tip and a money-saving tip. So often when I am traveling I see people buying multiple bottles of plastic water daily. Not only is this adding insane amounts of plastic waste into landfills but the cost adds up over time.

We always travel with reusable bottles that we fill up at our accommodation and carry with us. This is a cost-effective way to travel and you are being eco-friendly at the same time.

Tip: Get a 1l-water bottle from Nalgene . We always travel with one. They are cheap, durable, lightweight, and easy to carry on hikes 👌

22. Stay Away from Touristy Restaurants

The areas with the most tourists have generally the most expensive restaurants. The food is often also not that good and other tourists will surround you.

You will find that food prices drop dramatically by walking a couple of blocks away from the main tourist area. Look for places that are full of locals as they generally know where the best food is.

Also, don’t be afraid of street food! When people first go traveling they often stay away from it because they are afraid of getting sick. But street food is super cheap and delicious! Also in my experience, you are more likely to get sick in restaurants than from street food.

At street food stalls you can at least have a close look at the food storage and preparation method. Often you can watch them cook! Plus it’s the most authentic local experience you can get for a really cheap price.

Read also: Best cheap foodie destinations 🌮

23. Look for Free Breakfasts

When booking hostels it can often work out cheaper to book a hostel that is slightly more expensive if it comes with a free breakfast and coffee. It’s a cheap way to vacation.

Another bonus is that you save time by not having to make breakfast or end up spending a lot of money on it. Plus you get the opportunity to meet other travelers and may end up spending the whole day with them.

The only downside is that free breakfasts are usually made of super cheap unhealthy ingredients so make sure to fuel yourself the rest of the day with healthy food!

How to find free breakfasts? 🍳 1. Go to your booking site of preference e.g. Hostelworld 2. Choose your destination, dates and hit Search 3. Click on Filter and “Free Breakfast” 4. Voilá you will see all places with free breakfast

Try it yourself 👇

24. Bring Fruit & Nuts as Snacks

One of the hardest things to do on a long bus trip or while waiting at the airport is to resist buying snacks . Not only are they unhealthy but also expensive.

So avoid this money trap by planning ahead . We always bring local fruits, nuts and protein bars on our trip. And never ever buy food or drinks on airplanes!

It is a cheap way to travel and is far better for your health. Eating healthy while traveling can be a struggle but adding healthy snacks will make a big difference.

Read here: Tips for cheap healthy snacks 🍎

ACTIVITIES 🥾

25. google free things to do.

When I visit a new city I will always google free things to do there. Someone will have written a blog post (like us! ;)) about free things to do in nearly every touristy place around the world. They can have some awesome ideas that are totally free.

Another good idea is to google free events in the city you are in. There can often be festivals or cultural events that are free to visit and will make you feel like a local.

See here: All Free-Things-to-do articles we have written ✌️

26. Visit Museums Cheap or for Free

In a lot of countries, museums will have certain days when they are free to visit, often on Sundays. Just look up their website and go for free where possible. This way we have saved quite some money without missing out on cultural highlights.

If you are a student, always make sure to bring your student pass with you. Many museums offer university discounts making it a great way to travel cheap as a student.

In big cities, like Chicago , London, or New York it can often be worth it to get city passes that give you discounts on many attractions and save you time queuing. Sometimes you may get as much as 50% off admission!

Our favorite ticket websites : 🎟️ GetYourGuide (entries) 🎟️ Tiqets (attractions) 🎟️ GoCity (passes) 🎟️ Ticketmaster (events)

27. Join Free Walking Tours

Free walking tours are available in most major cities around the world. They are often hosted by a local guide who can give a brief history of the place and interesting facts.

I have done an uncountable number of free walking tours worldwide and besides one or two I found them to be a great and cheap way of getting to know a new place.

While they are not really free as the guides work for tips it is up to you how much you tip. So those on a bigger budget can choose to tip more, and if you are strapped for cash, you can tip less.

Our favorite tour guide sites: 🤠 Google “Free Walking Tour + City you are in” 🤠 GetYourGuide 🤠 Viator

28. Go on Self-Guided Walking Tours

One of my favorite things to do when I arrive in a new place is to just go for a walk without any destination in mind. A good idea is to google a few nice areas and download them on Google Maps offline before starting to walk.

That way you will discover interesting parts of the city you would never have seen if you had just stuck to the main tourist attractions. Plus it’s completely free!

Our favorite self-guided sites: 🗺️ Google Maps (works offline) 🗺️ Maps.me (works offline) 🎧 WeGoTrip (Audio Tours)

29. Avoid Pricey Tours

Try to avoid organized tours when going to major tourist attractions . Frequently I see overpriced tours offered that don’t include little more than transport.

So often it is so much cheaper to take public transport to the attraction yourself. Plus you can take your time at the sites and not have to rush or stick to the schedule of the tour.

Of course in some situations, tours can work out to be cheaper or better, especially as a solo traveler. But it always pays to compare the price of a tour vs doing it on your own.

Our favorite tour websites: 🤠 Viator 🤠 GetYourGuide 🤠 Tripadvisor

30. Go Hiking (Healthy Way to Travel Cheap)

Going for a hike is an activity that is mostly free and has the added benefit of staying in shape and getting into nature. It is easy to get stuck in big cities while traveling.

Especially as a digital nomad you may be living in exotic locations but glued to your laptop all day. Hiking is a good way to escape the city and your laptop and see more of the natural beauty of a country.

There are plenty of free hiking sites out there that will show you hundreds of cool hikes for all fitness levels nearby. Often with trails away from tourist crowds.

Tip: In countries where safety is an issue, always make sure to check the hike reviews on the sites or on Google Maps (filter by lowest) to see if incidents on the trail have happened in the last few months. That way we stayed away from some doggy hikes in Colombia.

Our favorite free hiking sites: 🥾 AllTrails 🥾 WikiLoc See also: All hikes we have blogged about 🌎

31. Work Out for Free

While traveling it is very easy to slip out of your workout routine and become unfit. Also in many countries day passes to gyms can be very expensive.

That’s why the best idea is to learn workout routines that require no equipment and can be done anywhere. There are thousands of videos on YouTube with routines that you can follow anywhere simply with your body weight.

My favorite way to workout is to go for a run or do calisthenics as there are free calisthenics parks in almost any city in the world. It can also be a great idea to buy some cheap workout equipment you can travel with.

For example, we travel with a lightweight yoga mat , resistance bands, and a skipping rope that you can get a great workout with and easily fit inside your luggage.

Read here: Best Free Workout Tips for Travelers 💪

Now you know how to travel cheap, yeah!

Everyone has different wants and needs, especially when it comes to traveling. Someone might not want to sacrifice certain things. But even if you only incorporate a few of the tips on this list you should be able to get more bang for your buck.

So much of travel is learning by doing and finding out what works for you! I hope this list helps you save money and enables you to extend your travels so you can spend more time doing what you love 🙌

If you have any more tips on how to travel cheap let us know in the comments below! We would love to hear them.

• Guide to Free Accommodation
• How to Eat Cheap & Healthy
• How to Stay Fit on the Road
• How to Become a Petsitter
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About Allan

Hi, I am Allan, a travel, health and fitness fanatic from New Zealand. I'm a former lawyer who turned into a full-time nomad in 2020. For the last 4+ years I've been traveling the world. I'm always on a hunt for local food, activities on a budget and workouts on the go. I hope you find my tips helpful and get inspired to travel more!

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How to Travel Cheap: 16 Ways to Travel for Cheap or Free

Whenever I ask readers what the number one thing holding them back from traveling is, I almost always get the same answer: Money.

This is something I hear from everyone I talk to: “Matt, I simply don’t have enough money to travel.”

This problem — and how to overcome it — is my most asked question. Over the past 14 years , I have answered this question in a plethora of posts, emails, tweets, and Facebook posts. Long-term readers might even be getting sick of me discussing this subject because it is one I talk about so much. 

But I know no matter how often I address this question, it will come up again.

Since this question comes up so often, I like to constantly remind people of this fact: You do not need to be rich to travel.

Let’s repeat that: You do not need to be rich to travel.

There are plenty of ways to travel on a budget (and for free) — you just need to be willing to get creative.

Traveling the world with no little or no money sounds like an impossible dream. But it is possible. It’s not glamorous, but it’s possible.

It should be said that there are some expenses you shouldn’t compromise on (like travel insurance ) but there are tons of ways you can travel the world on a budget — including plenty of ways you can actually travel for free.

In this post, I’m going to show you two things:

• How to travel cheap
• How to travel for free

Learning how to travel cheap is all about taking advantage of helpful apps and websites that save you money, finding ways to lower your expenses, and even making money as you travel. It’s about finding value and lowering your expenses while still being able to afford to do what you want.

Learning how to travel for free entails taking advantage of free accommodation, transportation, and activities that are already out there, thereby reducing your cost to zero. You can also use points and miles to earn free flights and accommodation . Here, you sacrifice comfort and convenience to extend your travels as long as possible.

With the right budget and the right mindset, you can make your travel dreams a reality. Even if you don’t earn a lot or you have debt, there are still plenty of ways to go overseas (I still had debt when I went on my first trip around the world). They may not be fancy or luxurious, but if travel is your priority then you can definitely make it happen!

Ready to kick-start your budget travels and save money? Just click on either of the links below to jump directly to that section!

Table of Contents

1. Get a Job Overseas

2. teach english overseas, 3. do wwoofing and work on a farm, 4. use the sharing economy, 5. cook your own meals, 6. get rail passes, 7. sleep in large dorms, 8. use student and other discount cards, 9. get city tourist cards, 10. capitalize on your skills, 11. get free flights, 12. stay for free, 13. hitchhike, 14. take free walking tours, 15. house sitting & pet sitting, 16. use your social network.

Not making enough money at your job? Or, even worse, are you working a job you hate? Why not get a job overseas? There are plenty of opportunities in the world as long as you aren’t picky. After all, this isn’t a career you are starting — it’s just a way to earn money for travel.

Here are some popular (and easy to find) jobs you can get when you travel:

• Au pair – An au pair is a live-in caregiver who helps a host family by looking after their children and doing some basic housekeeping. In exchange, you get free room and board and a small salary. This is a great route if you’re looking to learn a new language or immerse yourself in a new culture. You can read this post for more info on being an au pair .
• Bartender – It’s always 5 o’clock somewhere, so if you have the skills then this is an easy job to move overseas. It’s also an easy job to get under the table if you decide to go that route. If you don’t have the skills to tend bar, consider being a dishwasher or busser.
• Hostel worker – Hostel workers rarely stick around for long, which means there is always a demand for new help. It’s a great way to meet other travelers while adjusting to a new location. You can usually also start off as a volunteer (in exchange for a free room) to avoid visa complications. Three websites that can help you find hostels to volunteer at are Worldpackers , Workaway , and HelpX .
• Waitress/waiter – There are tons of seasonal restaurants around the world (and around the US) that need extra help during the busy tourist months. If you have experience, this is an easy job to find abroad.
• Dive instructor – If you have your certification , this is an easy job to travel with as dive instructors are needed everywhere. Best of all, these jobs are usually in picturesque tropical locations !
• Tour guide – If you’ve got a knack for history and don’t mind speaking in front of groups, this is the perfect job for you. It’s also usually a cash job, which means you get your tips directly.
• Cruise ship worker – This is a much more formal position than the ones above, but it’s a great way to travel. The hours are long, but there’s something to be said about living at sea!
• Casino worker – While this might require some training, if you’re a night owl and don’t mind the casino scene this is a fun job to work abroad.
• Seasonal worker at ski resorts – Instructors, restaurant staff, hotel staff, lifeguards — ski resorts need all sorts of staff to keep things moving, making this a goldmine for the overseas traveler (as long as you don’t mind the snow!).
• Yacht worker – While the hours can be long, you can make great money working for the rich and famous on their yachts. Best of all, you’re usually in some pretty amazing destinations!
• Yoga instructor – If you have the skills (and certification), teaching yoga abroad is an easy way to make some spending money. While you might need to know the language, there are yoga studios in pretty much every city in the world.

Working overseas often gets discounted as an option because it seems hard to do. It’s not. Just be open. These jobs don’t require advanced degrees or a lot of work experience either.

Are you going to get a high-paying office job? No.

Will you get a shitty, low-wage job that will pay all your travel bills? Yep!

I’ve met people from all walks of life, both from Western and non-Western countries, funding their travels this way. It’s an easy, fun way to lengthen your travels, deepen your experience, and make a little money so you can keep on traveling.

READ MORE ABOUT WORKING OVERSEAS: 15 Ways to Find a Job and Work Overseas  

All you need is the ability to speak English fluently and a TEFL degree , depending on the country you work in. The world is yearning for teachers, and this is a job in high demand; many companies in Asia will even pay for your flight over as well as cover your rent while you’re there.

If you have a college or university degree you’ll be able to make more money and apply for better positions though it’s not necessary for many countries.

Additionally, there are many websites and services out there that allow you to teach virtually. As long as you have a great Wi-Fi connection, you can help people learn English from anywhere in the world!

Some places you can teach online are:

READ MORE ABOUT TEACHING OVERSEAS:

• The Best TEFL Courses for Teaching English Abroad
• The 9 Best Places to Teach English Overseas

WWOOF stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms . It’s a platform that allows you to work on a farm in exchange for free room and board. It’s a great way to see a destination in-depth while allowing you to commune with the great outdoors. You have to pay to get to the farm, but once you are there, everything else is covered! It definitely will help you travel cheap as well as have a unique experience and meet lots of cool people.

WWOOF has opportunities available in 130 countries around the world, with over 12,000 hosts and 100,000 WWOOFers. Some of the most popular destinations for WWOOFers are Portugal, France, Italy, Costa Rica, Australia, New Zealand, and Hawaii.

READ MORE ABOUT VOLUNTEERING :

• How to Travel and Work Around the World with WWOOF
• How to Ethically Volunteer Anywhere in the World

These websites have changed the travel game and made travel more accessible for everyone.

Here are some of my favorite websites:

• BlaBlaCar – A ride-sharing app that connects you with drivers who have extra seats in their car (primarily for medium and long distances, and mainly in Europe).
• EatWith – Platform that connects you with local cooks serving private meals.
• RVShare – Lets you rent RVs and camper vans directly from locals.
• Turo – A car sharing marketplace that lets you rent vehicles from locals.
• Campspace – This platform lets you camp on private property. Properties range from basic tent plots to luxurious glamping and RV stays.
• Trusted Housesitters – Connects you with locals with whom you exchange pet and house sitting services for free accommodation.

READ MORE ABOUT THE SHARING ECONOMY:

• How to Use the Sharing Economy to Travel on a Budget
• How to Find the perfect Apartment on Sites Like Airbnb

The best way to save money on the road is to cook all your own meals. While in Stockholm , I spent $60 USD for a week’s worth of groceries instead of an average of $15 USD per meal eating out! That’s a savings of $150 USD!

I’ve done the same thing in dozens of countries all around the world — especially in expensive destinations like Iceland where eating out can really destroy your budget.

If you are staying in hostels , book accommodation that has a kitchen so you have space to cook. If you’re Couchsurfing or using Airbnb,your host will probably have a kitchen.

No kitchen? Pack your own container and cutlery and make some sandwiches and salads on the go. Not every meal requires a stove, right?

Just because you are traveling doesn’t mean you need to eat out every meal. You won’t ruin your trip to Paris if you decide not to eat out one day! There’s simply no reason to be spending lots of money on food on your trip!

READ MORE ABOUT SAVING MONEY ON FOOD WHEN YOU TRAVEL:

• How to Eat Cheap Around the World
• How to Eat Around the World on a Vegan Diet

If you are booking individual trips, booking ahead of time can usually save you about 50% of the cost of a train ticket. However, that fixes you to a set timeline. If you don’t want to be tied into a fixed schedule, rail passes can save you a lot of money while giving you the flexibility you need. I’ve saved hundreds of dollars in Europe doing this!

READ MORE ABOUT RAIL PASSES:

• Is The Eurail Pass Right For You?
• A Complete Guide To The Eurail Global Pass
• The Ultimate Guide To Saving Money With Eurail Passes

Large hostel dorm rooms are the cheapest paid accommodation out there. If Couchsurfing isn’t your thing, this is your next best way to save money on a place to sleep. The bigger the dorm, the cheaper it will be. While a 4-6 bed dorm might give you more privacy, a 12-18 bed dorm is going to be a bit cheaper. In the long run, this will add up. As long as you’ve got earplugs and a sleeping mask, opt for the bigger dorm to keep your budget intact!

If you’re a light sleeper, make sure you read the reviews before you book to ensure you don’t choose a party hostel. In larger cities, you can usually find a hostel that is quieter than the others. It might not be as social or as centrally located, but you’ll at least be able to get a good sleep.

In a large dorm, you’re almost guaranteed to have some snorers. If earplugs don’t quite do the trick, download an app like Rain Rain , which plays rain sounds on a loop. You can set a timer so they stop playing after an hour or two, helping you ignore the noises of the dorm while you try to fall asleep. Spotify also has all kinds of rain and whitenoise playlists too.

For discounts on hostels in Europe, check out HostelPass . This card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and am glad it finally exists! (Use code NOMADICMATT for 25% off your membership.)

READ MORE ABOUT HOSTELS:

• Why I Still Stay in Hostels When I Travel
• 11 Expert Tips on Picking a Good Hostel
• 6 Ways to Avoid a Bad Hostel

Are you a student, teacher, or under 26? Welcome to the world of 50%-off attractions and a plethora of discounts! Get a student/teacher/youth card and save big while you’re abroad. Even if you’ve recently graduated, chances are you can still get by with your expired ID card (as long as it doesn’t have an expiry date). Always ask if there are discounts available for students or youth as this is an easy way to save tons of cash as you travel around!

Museums, galleries, and other major tourist attractions usually have discounts (especially in Europe ). It never hurts to ask! (There are also often discounts for senior travelers and veterans as well, so always ask!)  

If you plan on seeing a lot of sights in a city, you should get a city tourism card. These will offer you discounted and/or free access to the major attractions and museums, as well as free public transportation. I saved over $100 USD with the London pass, $80 USD with the Paris Museum card, $50 USD with a Helsinki card, and tons more with other city tourism cards.

They are an amazing way to save money on attractions that not enough people use. Just head to the local tourism office to find out what cards are available. They can help answer all your questions and make sure you save as much money as possible. Not every city has them, but most major destinations do and you’ll save a lot of money if you plan on seeing the major sights.  

Need some cash? Use Craigslist (operates in 70 countries), TaskRabbit (mainly in the US and Canada, though also in Italy and Spain), or Gumtree (UK-based) to find paid odd jobs, like assisting people who need a few things done around the house. It’s a way to make money when you travel without committing to a long-term job.

Additionally, if you have a skill, sell it. Offer haircuts to other travelers, busk for money, provide online services like editing, graphic design, or consulting. It’s never been easier to work online. As long as you have Wi-Fi you can make money. The sky is the limit here — get creative!  

These days, there are tons of ways to earn free flights. Simply sign up for a few travel credit cards , collect miles, and then fly for free.

Most cards offer sign-up bonuses of 50,000 points (or more) — which is often enough for a free round-trip flight right there. And if you sign up for both an airline card (e.g., a United credit card) and a general rewards card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, you can combine the two point balances and get a cheap flight faster.

You can go a lot further in the world when you take away the cost of flights and some accommodation. By collecting points and miles through credit card bonuses, smart everyday spending, online surveys, bonuses, and other methods, you’ll accrue a ton of miles even before you’ve left for your trip. There’s even a card now — The Bilt Mastercard® – that lets you earn points on your rent!

Collecting points and miles isn’t only for Americans either (though US residents have the best options). Canadians can collect points too, as can folks from Australia and New Zealand and the UK .

Europeans also have several options as well, including all kinds of airline cards such as Norwegian Air, SAS, Aer Lingus, Lufthansa, and more.

READ MORE ABOUT POINTS & MILES:

• Points & Miles 101: A Beginner’s Guide
• The Ultimate Guide to Points & Miles
• How I Earn 1 Million Frequent Flier Miles Each Year
• The Best Travel Credit Cards

There are many services that connect travelers with locals who are willing to let them stay with them for free. Using these sites, you will never have to pay for accommodation. Years ago I read about a guy who traveled for years while only Couchsurfing.

I’ve used this service dozens of times over the years and always meet amazing people. Sometimes you get a room, sometimes a couch, sometimes an air mattress, but it’s always free.

Ideally, you’ll want to repay your host’s kindness by cooking them a meal, bringing them a souvenir from home, or taking them out for a drink. But that will still be much cheaper than paying for accommodation!

There are also local Couchsurfing group meet-ups that can help you make friends in your new city. You can even use the app just to meet people without having to stay with them. It’s a great way to connect with local insiders — whether you want a free place to stay or not.

Moreover, because of the rise of the sharing economy in the last few years, there are now websites that let you not only stay with locals but share rides, meals, train tickets, gear, and much more! These websites not only save you a TON of money but also get you off the tourist track and into the local life. Win-win! Here is a list of websites to use for free accommodation:

• Couchsurfing
• Warmshowers

READ MORE ABOUT FINDING CHEAP OR FREE ACCCOMMODATION:

• How to Find Cheap Accommodation
• How to Start House Sitting and Never Pay for Accommodation
• How to Crush it on Couchsurfing

I’ve hitchhiked in more than a handful of countries (and I know solo female travelers who have done the same!). Sure, it has a bad reputation in North America, but with some common sense and a bit of patience, you can hitchhike almost anywhere — saving you tons of money in the process!

Here are a few basic tips to help you get started:

• Use a sign – Make a clear sign that lets people know where you’re heading. That will help drivers decide if they can help.
• Look presentable – Wear clean clothing, smile, and don’t obscure your face with something like sunglasses. People want to see who they are picking up.
• Check the laws – Hitchhiking is illegal in some places. Always check the laws to make sure it’s ok to do where you are.
• Take precautions – Note the license plate of anyone who picks you up and text it to a friend. Chances are you won’t need it but it’s better to be safe than sorry!
• Keep your valuables on you – Don’t leave any valuables in your bag if it goes in the trunk in case it gets left in the car (or stolen).
• Consult Hitchwiki – Hitchwiki is the #1 hitchhiking resource there is. Always consult it before you hitchhike to pick up tips and ensure you’re hitchhiking in a safe place.

READ MORE ABOUT HITCHHIKING:

• 14 Ways to Safely Hitchhike Across the United States
• What I Learned Hitchhiking Around China
• A Lesson in Kindness While Hitchhiking through Iceland

Want to learn about the city, get your bearings, and see the major sights? Take a free walking tour. You can find them in most major cities — just ask the local tourist office, your hostel staff, or Google “free walking tour (city name).”

You’ll get a solid introduction to the city while also getting access to a local guide you can ask questions to. I always start my visits to a new city with one. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end (that’s how they get paid).

READ MORE ABOUT TAKING FREE WALKING TOURS:

• The Best Walking Tours of NYC
• The Best Walking Tour Companies in London
• 8 Ways to Choose the Perfect Tour Company
• The Best Walking Tours in Paris
• The Best Walking Tours in Amsterdam
• A Self-Guided Tour of Colonial New York

You can sign up for one of the sites below to start house sitting, allowing you to stay in one destination for a while without having to pay for accommodation. Everyone’s account is verified and has reviews so you know you won’t get cheated.

This is a great way to travel long-term, with an important added bonus: you get a kitchen to cook your food (which saves you even more money!).

You will also often get access to a vehicle and sometimes will be left a tip or free groceries. It’s generally people who are well enough off that they can afford multi-month vacations, so you’re usually in pretty nice homes and apartments too!

Here are the best house-sitting websites to check out:

• Trusted Housesitters

READ MORE ABOUT HOUSE SITTING:

• How to Become a House Sitter and Never Pay for Accommodation
• How to Start House Sitting

Does your colleague have a relative in Spain? Or maybe you have a distant cousin who lives in New Zealand. Or maybe a childhood friend of yours is working down in Brazil.

These days, we have a vast social network of friends and family that stretches across the globe. Don’t hesitate to use that! Ask your co-workers and friends if they know anyone where you’re going. Get your mom to ask her co-workers and friends, too.

Using your social network can be hugely helpful in traveling the world . You never know who knows who!

By implementing a variety of these tips, you’ll be able to travel for relatively little money. With a little planning and some creativity, you can travel the world for cheap.

Because if I can do it, you can do it too!

Whether it’s two months, two years, or just a two-week vacation, travel doesn’t need to cost a ton. The key is to get out of the mindset that you must travel in the typical manner of simply booking a flight and a hotel. Using out-of-the-box, nontraditional ways to travel can lead to big savings.

But it all starts with a change in mindset. From there, with some patience and practice, you’ll be able to make your travel dreams a reality — without breaking the bank!

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)
• InsureMyTrip (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.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Threads 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 may earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are mine alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities. This page does not include all card companies or all available card offers.

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