Hey there, fellow wanderlusters! If you’re anything like me, your heart skips a beat at the thought of exploring new places. But, let’s be real—traveling can put a serious dent in your wallet. However, I’ve got some good news for you: there are plenty of incredible destinations around the world where you can stretch your dollar (or euro, or yen) further than you ever thought possible. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s dive into my top ten cheapest countries to visit. Trust me, your bank account will thank you later!
1. Vietnam: A Foodie’s Paradise
Vietnam is a dream come true for anyone who loves good food and stunning landscapes. I remember the first time I set foot in Hanoi—I was immediately drawn in by the aroma of pho being served at a street-side stall. And guess what? That bowl of steaming goodness only set me back about $1.50!
Vietnam offers a rich cultural experience without breaking the bank. Whether you’re cruising along Ha Long Bay or exploring the ancient town of Hoi An, you’ll find that everything from food to accommodations is super affordable.
You can easily find a decent room for $10-15 a night, and local buses or trains are also dirt cheap. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a motorbike for a few bucks and explore the countryside like a local. Plus, with street food like banh mi costing less than a dollar, your taste buds will be on a never-ending adventure.
2. Thailand: The Land of Smiles
Thailand has long been a favorite destination for budget travelers, and for good reason. I spent three months backpacking across Thailand, and it remains one of my favorite places. The beaches of Krabi, the bustling markets of Bangkok, the serene temples of Chiang Mai—each offers a unique experience, all while being easy on the wallet.
Street food is where you’ll save the most—think pad thai, fresh spring rolls, and mango sticky rice, all for just a couple of dollars each. Accommodations can be as low as $10 a night in a guesthouse, especially if you’re willing to stay a little off the beaten path. Plus, transportation, whether it’s a tuk-tuk ride or an overnight bus, is incredibly affordable.
One of my best memories is renting a scooter in Pai for $7 a day and just exploring the mountain roads and waterfalls. Thailand makes it easy to have an adventure on a shoestring budget.
3. India: A Subcontinent of Surprises
India is an overwhelming, vibrant, and totally affordable country to explore. From the chaotic streets of Delhi to the serene backwaters of Kerala, India is a place that engages all your senses. I’ll never forget my visit to the Taj Mahal—walking through the grand gates and seeing the white marble tomb shimmering in the morning light was breathtaking. The entry fee was around $15 for foreigners, but it’s totally worth it.
In India, you can easily live on $20-30 a day, which includes accommodations, food, and local transport. Street food like samosas, chaat, and dosas are not only delicious but also incredibly cheap, often costing less than $1.
Train travel is an experience in itself, and it’s one of the most affordable ways to see the country. I once took an overnight train from Jaipur to Mumbai for about $10. The journey was long, but the scenery and the chance to chat with locals made it worthwhile.
4. Nepal: The Roof of the World
Nepal might be best known for Mount Everest, but there’s so much more to this country than just high peaks. Whether you’re trekking through the Annapurna Circuit or exploring the bustling streets of Kathmandu, Nepal offers stunning experiences without a hefty price tag.
I did a 10-day trek through the Himalayas, and the entire adventure—guide, permits, food, and lodging—cost less than $400. You can find simple, clean accommodations for as little as $5 a night, and a hearty meal of dal bhat (a traditional Nepali dish) will only set you back a couple of dollars.
Transportation is also incredibly cheap. Buses and shared taxis can get you around the country for just a few bucks. Plus, the people of Nepal are incredibly friendly, often going out of their way to make you feel welcome, which makes the whole experience even more special.
5. Indonesia: Islands of Adventure
Indonesia is a country of over 17,000 islands, and each one offers something unique. From the beaches of Bali to the temples of Yogyakarta, there’s no shortage of things to do and see. I found Indonesia to be incredibly budget-friendly, with a mix of activities that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking to relax.
In Bali, I stayed in a cozy guesthouse for just $12 a night, and rented a scooter to explore the island for about $5 a day. Street food, like nasi goreng (fried rice) and satay, is both delicious and cheap, often costing just a couple of dollars.
If you’re into diving, Indonesia offers some of the world’s best dive sites at a fraction of the cost you’d pay elsewhere. I did a three-day diving trip in Komodo National Park for under $300, including accommodation, meals, and dive equipment.
6. Cambodia: Temples and Tranquility
Cambodia is most famous for Angkor Wat, one of the largest religious monuments in the world, and a must-visit for any traveler. The entry fee is about $37 for a day pass, but exploring the massive complex is worth every penny. Beyond Angkor Wat, Cambodia is a country rich in history and culture, with friendly locals and a relaxed vibe.
I found Cambodia to be one of the cheapest countries I’ve ever visited. You can easily find a hostel bed for $5-7 a night, and a delicious meal of amok (a traditional Cambodian curry) or a baguette sandwich will only cost a couple of dollars.
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the lesser-known temples around Siem Reap. I hired a tuk-tuk driver for the day for just $15, and we explored these ancient sites without the crowds you typically find at Angkor Wat. It felt like I had stumbled upon a hidden piece of history.
7. Bolivia: The Heart of South America
Bolivia is one of the most affordable countries in South America, offering stunning landscapes and unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re exploring the otherworldly salt flats of Salar de Uyuni or wandering through the vibrant streets of La Paz, Bolivia is a place where your money goes far.
I spent a month traveling through Bolivia, and I rarely spent more than $25 a day, including accommodations, food, and activities. Hostels are incredibly cheap, often costing just $8-10 a night. Street food, like salteñas (a type of empanada) and api (a traditional hot drink), is both tasty and budget-friendly.
One of my favorite experiences was a three-day tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats. For about $150, I got transportation, meals, and accommodations, along with the chance to see one of the most surreal landscapes on Earth. It was worth every penny!
8. Romania: A European Gem
Eastern Europe is often overlooked by budget travelers, but Romania is a hidden gem that deserves more attention. With its medieval towns, stunning castles, and scenic countryside, Romania offers a rich cultural experience at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe.
I spent a week exploring Transylvania, and it was like stepping into a fairy tale. Accommodation is incredibly affordable—I found charming guesthouses for $20-30 a night, and a hearty meal of sarmale (cabbage rolls) and mamaliga (polenta) cost less than $10.
One of the highlights was visiting Bran Castle, often referred to as “Dracula’s Castle.” The entry fee was about $10, and the views from the castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking the valley, were simply breathtaking. Plus, getting around Romania by train is both affordable and scenic, offering a great way to see the countryside.
9. Georgia: Where Europe Meets Asia
Georgia, a country at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is an incredible destination for budget travelers. With its stunning mountain scenery, ancient churches, and warm hospitality, Georgia offers a unique travel experience without the high price tag.
I stayed in Tbilisi, the capital city, where I found cozy guesthouses for just $15 a night. The food in Georgia is also something to rave about—think khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and khinkali (dumplings), both of which you can enjoy for just a few dollars.
One of the most memorable parts of my trip was hiking in the Caucasus Mountains. The landscapes were absolutely stunning, and the best part? It was completely free! Just pack a picnic and hit the trails for a day of adventure.
10. Mexico: More Than Just Beaches
Mexico is a diverse country that offers everything from beautiful beaches to ancient ruins to vibrant cities, all at a very affordable price. While many people think of Cancun or Cabo when they hear “Mexico,” there’s so much more to explore, especially if you’re on a budget.
I spent a month traveling around Mexico, and I was amazed at how affordable it was. You can find budget accommodations for as low as $10-15 a night, and a meal of tacos or enchiladas will only cost a few dollars.
One of the highlights was visiting the ancient city of Teotihuacan, just outside of Mexico City. The entry fee was about $4, and climbing the Pyramid of the Sun to watch the sunset was an unforgettable experience. Plus, getting around Mexico by bus is both comfortable and cheap, making it easy to explore different regions of the country.
Wrapping It Up: Travel Far, Spend Less
So there you have it—my top ten picks for the cheapest countries to visit. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient temples, hike through stunning landscapes, or simply relax on a beach, there’s a destination on this list for you. And the best part? You don’t need to empty your savings to do it.
Remember, the key to thrifty travel is to be flexible and open to new experiences. Don’t be afraid to stray off the beaten path, try local foods, and engage with the people you meet along the way. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also come away with stories and memories that are priceless.
Now, go pack your bags and start planning your next adventure. Who knows? Maybe I’ll see you on the road. Safe travels!
Sources:
- Vietnam costs and experiences: Lonely Planet, 2023.
- Thailand budget travel tips: The Broke Backpacker, 2022.
- India travel affordability: Rough Guides, 2023.
- Bolivia budget insights: Nomadic Matt, 2023.
- General travel budgeting tips: World Nomads, 2023.