If you’re looking for some affordable destinations to put on your travel list for 2026, then I’ve got some perfect suggestions for you!
Even as a diehard budget traveller, it’s not just low prices that guide me, however. I look for destinations that are also safe and have a wide array of exciting experiences.
I mean, sure, Venezuela is cheap… but hyperinflation, kidnapping, and the threat of conflict surely makes the average traveler uneager to hop onto the first plane to Caracas. What we’re looking for here is “cheap, but for the right reasons”.
In this list, I’ve included destinations I’ve traveled extensively, plus a few I’m planning to visit in 2026 that offer exceptional value right now.
What I love about budget travel destinations is that they can make your trip decisions so much less agonizing, giving you a greater sense of freedom. Realizing just how far your Dollars, Euros, or Pounds can go in cheaper countries can be eye-opening. In many countries, it’s very doable to spend around $35 to $50 on all your travel expenses per person per day.
For the price of a single restaurant meal in, say, London or New York, you could be covering a whole day’s worth of traveling in cheap countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, Mexico, or Morocco — to name just a few.
Here are some ideas…
Quick answers — cheap countries to travel
Cheap countries in (and near) Europe:
Bulgaria, Romania, Baltic States, Albania, Bosnia, Georgia
Cheap countries in Asia:
Vietnam, Nepal, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, Philippines, India, Sri Lanka
Cheap countries in the Americas:
Mexico, Colombia, Guatemala, Argentina, Bolivia
Cheap countries in Africa:
Morocco, Cape Verde, Egypt
Cheap & easy beach holidays:
Mexico, Thailand, Indonesia
Some classic backpacker bargains:
Thailand, Mexico, Vietnam
Awesome cultural/adventure destinations:
Colombia, Romania, Laos, Bolivia, Albania, Nicaragua
1. Vietnam
To some, this pick might not be surprising. Among backpackers Vietnam has long been known as a classic on the Southeast Asia travel trail.
But lately, Vietnam is getting (re)discovered in a major way. It’s now mainly digital nomads singing its praises: visa reforms made long stays easier, while the highly liveable seaside city of Da Nang has put Central Vietnam in the spotlight with its low prices and clean air. Budget breakdowns of Vietnam have been all over social media lately — and justifiably so!
An economic boom has made Vietnam more developed while prices have stayed highly attractive, broadening its tourism appeal. Upscale experiences are there if you want them, though you can also easily spend as little as $25-$30 per day as a budget traveler.
Eat local and you’ll struggle to spend more than a few dollars per meal, while locally brewed beers may cost as little as $0.25 a glass. Hotel rooms offer incredible value; as little as $14 per night will get you a clean and comfortable place to stay. Digital nomads will boast of apartment rentals of around $500/month in Da Nang.
While I’d point first to Thailand or Indonesia if you’re looking just for dreamy beaches, Vietnam excels as a cultural and adventure travel hub. We’ve recently created many guides to Vietnam (and one of our team members is based there), so dive in to see if this will be your next trip…
Backpacker Budget: $30 a day
Mid-range Budget: $50 a day
When to go: peak season Nov-Mar, shoulder season Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct
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All Vietnam Guides
2. Albania
This small Balkan country has been trending lately, though with tiktoks and reels usually focusing on Ksamil, a scenic beach town somewhat unconvincingly compared to the Maldives.
But while prices in Ksamil can be extremely high even by Western European standards, the rest of the country remains highly affordable. In 2025, I paid around $5 for basic local meals, around $10 for a traditional meal in a tourist restaurant, and around $35 a night for a simple apartment or room. Hostel dorm beds usually cost around $11-$14 per night.
Albania’s time in the spotlight might make you worry about overtourism, but apart from a few Insta-famous places, Albania remains underexplored. When I re-visited in summer 2025, despite the hype, I found almost no tourist crowds.
Beyond the viral eye-candy of Ksamil, Albania is blessed with a beautiful Mediterranean coastline — but I think the real secrets are its quirky capital, well-preserved Ottoman-era towns, and beautiful Alps. On my revisit I went to the newly established Vjosa Wild River National Park, which now fully protects one of the last wild rivers in Europe. It’s an incredible under-the-radar place for river rafting, canyon hiking, and hot springs.
Backpacker Budget: $35 a day
Mid-range Budget: $55 a day
When to go: peak season Jul-Aug — shoulder season Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct
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All Albania Guides
3. Bolivia
For some travelers, there is a new reason to put Bolivia on the list: in 2026 Bolivia will finally scrap the $160 visa requirement for Americans (and several other nationalities).
As a European I could already enter Bolivia visa-free, but now more travellers will enjoy this priveledge. This has instantly made Bolivia amore attractive destination, including for quick side-trips from Peru. Visa costs aside, it was already South America’s ultimate budget destination, where you can get by on a basic budget of about $25 a day.
This landlocked country is often overlooked in favor of other destinations with beaches, but this mountainous country has so much to offer — such as the world’s highest lake Titicaca, and the jaw-dropping and otherworldly salt flats of Salar de Uyuni. With its remote feel and sense of adventure, it’s one of my favorite backpacker destinations in South America.
Not many airlines fly direct to Bolivia, but it combines well with neighboring Peru, where the capital Lima is well connected internationally.
Backpacker Budget: $25-$30 a day
Mid-range Budget: $50 a day
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4. Bulgaria
Perhaps Bulgaria is not on your radar yet, since it’s not an overly promoted destination. It honestly wasn’t on mine — but then I went, I realized what I’d been missing out on!
Not only is it one of Europe’s best travel bargains, but it’s bursting with culture, history, and authenticity. And it’s one of the most affordable countries to boot.
For a taste of what you can experience, check out my cinematic travel vlog, where I take you on a journey through the heart of Bulgaria:
Bulgaria isn’t just beach tourism on the Black Sea. On my trip, I actually didn’t get around to visiting the coast because I had my hands absolutely full with exploring the interior. I loved ancient sites like Belogradchik fortress and Rila Monastery, visiting epic caverns where light rays burst through the ceilings, and spending time in charming Plovdiv — the oldest city in Europe.
Backpacker Budget: $40 a day
Mid-range Budget: $70 a day
When to go: spring, summer, fall
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5. Mexico
Mexico isn’t as attractive against Western currencies as it used to be: whereas last year you could still often get 20 pesos for a dollar at peak, this is currently nearing 18.
However, Mexico remains an inherently affordable destination. The relatively short travel distances also reduce the initial flight costs for North Americans, and even for Europeans like me it’s relatively easy to get to Mexico thanks to affordable flights to Cancun (e.g. as low as $644 return from London, Madrid, or Frankfurt).
The key thing to know is that many popular places in the Yucatan Peninsula, including Cancun and Tulum, are priced essentially at ‘Western’ levels as they are geared entirely towards tourists. Tulum even got so expensive that tourism there collapsed in 2025 with some of the lowest-ever occupancy rates (which makes me wonder if Tulum may start lowering prices).
For greater affordability, look beyond the beach tourism hotspots. Head inland from Cancun to Merida or Bacalar, or go on a cultural trip to Mexico City, Puebla, or Oaxaca — just to name two ideas in areas that are overall safe.
For a deep dive on where to travel in Mexico and what to expect, don’t miss my vlog — and check out my YouTube Mexico playlist for a lot of travel guides!
Backpacker Budget: $40 a day
Mid-range Budget: $65 a day
When to go: peak season Jun-Sep, Jan — shoulder season Oct-Nov, Apr-May
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All Mexico Guides
6. Morocco
Having revisited in 2025, I’m reminded again of how Morocco is an affordable destination that’s just a stone’s throw from Europe.
The key to staying on budget? Steer clear of the pushy salesmen trying to sell you overpriced rugs and trinkets! But unless you go shopping every day in the souks where everything is very tourist-priced, you can still travel in Morocco without breaking the bank.
The ancient fortified village of Aït Benhaddou
For great value accommodation with a bit of luxury, consider staying in some of the iconic riads—traditional hotels with garden courtyards offering a pleasant relief from the buzzing city streets. Riads come in all shapes and sizes; I found a budget option for $46/night in central Marrakech.
While Morocco poses some challenges (e.g. touts and pushy salesmen), I love this “country of colors” where you can experience bustling cities and forgotten landscapes. They say the Sahara has more grains of sand than there are stars in the universe, which is a wonderful idea to contemplate while you’re camping under a clear Milky Way sky in the middle of the Moroccan desert.
Backpacker Budget: $40 a day
Mid-range Budget: $60 a day
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All Morocco Guides
7. Indonesia
Indonesia can be an extremely affordable destination for Westerners, as I was reminded again as I revisited it for a 6-week trip in late 2024.
While Bali has always been the clear favorite island, it’s increasingly regarded as overtouristed. It’s still a good place to go for an affordable and easy trip, but if you’re seeking more calm and authenticity you might have to look elsewhere.
Luckily, the Indonesian archipelago is enormous — and Bali just a tiny speck! — so there is much more to discover. Almost everywhere outside Bali will also be much cheaper to travel.
Consider Bali’s neighboring islands of Lombok and Java, the spectacular Komodo islands and rural Flores, or go further into Sumatra or Sulawesi.
My most recent trip was to Sulawesi where about 10 EUR or 12 USD per night for a guesthouse or homestay with AC is the norm. With meals like a stir fry in a casual restaurant often only costing somewhere around $2 to $2.50, you don’t have to dig very deep in your wallet here.
From white sand beaches to jungles and savannahs, and from blue flame spewing volcanoes to remote rainforests where you can meet orangutans in the wild — Indonesia is a budget traveler’s dream.
Backpacker Budget: $30 a day
Mid-range Budget: $50 a day
When to go: peak season Jun-Sep, shoulder season Mar-May & Oct-Nov
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All Indonesia Guides
8. Bosnia-Herzegovina
Most people still associate Bosnia mainly with the war that took place there — checks calendar — an entire thirty years ago. But this Balkan country next to Croatia has gotten back on its feet and has so much to show you if you give it a chance.
The Medieval town of Mostar is a real highlight, its iconic bridge once connecting trade routes going as far as Venice and Constantinople. I was also impressed by the capital Sarajevo, which has such genuine warmth, interesting architecture, and a wonderful historic quarter. It’s delightfully budget-friendly and one of the truly underrated capitals of Europe.
Backpacker Budget: $30 a day
Mid-range Budget: $50 a day
When to go: peak season Jul-Aug, shoulder season May-Jun and Sep
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9. Thailand
The twin bays of Koh Phi Phi — Tonsai and Loh Dalum
The famously tourist-friendly Thailand is known mostly for its islands and beaches, which can be decent value if you know where to go (e.g. avoid Phi Phi Island if you wish to spare your wallet). But for the best prices, make your way to the northern Chiang Mai region and you’ll be in budget travel heaven.
Amid the rice fields, Buddhist temples, and hill tribes you can find some of the best-value accommodation anywhere—whether you’re looking for a backpacker dorm bed (from $6 per night) or a quality hotel with a swimming pool (from $35).
Backpacker Budget: $30 a day (inland)
Mid-range Budget: $50-$60 a day
When to go: peak season Nov-Feb — shoulder season Apr-Jun, Oct
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All Thailand guides
10. Colombia
Colombia remains one of the most affordable destinations in South America. It also happens to be an amazing country to travel (and no, these days it’s luckily nothing at all like Netflix’ Narcos, a show that is set over 50 years ago!).
Barichara, often called the prettiest town in Colombia
You can find a bit of everything within Colombia, having both a Pacific and Atlantic coast, the Amazon rainforest, and the start of the Andes mountain range. Add to this the buzzing cities of Medellín and Bogota, and the warmth of Colombians and their vibrant culture, and you’ve got one of the best budget-friendly travel destinations in the Americas.
Although markedly safer than its past reputation suggests, travelers should still read safety tips before going. While some border regions of Colombia are still best avoided, the welcoming north coast and coffee zone are among the regions that tourists rave about.
Backpacker Budget: $30 a day
Mid-range Budget: $50 a day
When to go: peak season Dec-Mar — shoulder season Jul-Sep
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All COlombia guides
11. Egypt
I must confess that I have long held off on visiting Egypt, simply as word from the travel community focuses consistently on the sheer hassle involved at key sites unless accompanied by a guide. However, I’m strongly being tempted now for two reasons: the pound devaluation has made Egypt incredibly cheap and the Grand Egyptian Museum has at last opened its doors.
Ramses II from The Grand Egyptian Museum GEM (Tamer_Soliman/DepositPhotos)
Let’s face it: the Pyramids of Giza will forever be a bucket list item, and now that Egypt is particularly good value perhaps it’s time to tick it off the list. The opening in late 2025 of the GEM — said to be the world’s largest archeological museum — gives a new impetus to go.
Besides the big cultural attractions, laidback Dahab equally has caught my attention for its windsurfing and scuba diving sites. My mouse cursor is hovering over that ‘book flight’ button.
12. Cambodia
Some visit Cambodia almost solely for Angkor Wat — a vast temple complex that was once the heart of the ancient Khmer empire. The sprawling archeological site is definitely stunning and highly worth a visit.
But there is much more to Cambodia, from the gentle town of Kratie along the Mekong River, to the unspoiled jungles of the Cardamom Mountains and the laidback island of Koh Rong Sanloem. Happily, it’s also one of the cheapest destinations in Asia.
Backpacker Budget: $25 a day
Mid-range Budget: $45 a day
When to go: peak season Dec-Feb, shoulder season Apr-May, Nov
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All Cambodia guides
13. Sri Lanka
I had grand plans for a trip through Sri Lanka that were unfortunately swallowed up by the pandemic. The economic crises in 2022 put my plans further on ice. But as the situation has calmed and tourism has rebounded, I’m putting Sri Lanka back on my to-go list.
Along the Kandy to Ella train route, one of the world’s most scenic train rides (AlexGukBO/DepositPhotos)
Yes, there is that one scenic train ride to Ella that became an Instagram staple a few years ago. But what has always attracted me to Sri Lanka are the iconic locations like Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the diverse opportunities for wildlife-spotting, and the promise of tropical beaches that are less developed than the likes of Thailand.
To top it off, the current weakness of the rupee makes it exceptional value. Travel friends reported paying restaurant meals costing around $3 and $25 per night for a budget guesthouse. I may well be taking tuk-tuks around Sri Lanka in 2026.
14. Transylvania
There’s a reason the above header says Transylvania and not Romania, of which it is a region: many people simply dismiss the country out of hand.
But they don’t just know what they’re missing!
The colorful old town of Brasov
This Eastern European country is one of Europe’s best kept secrets. Just like the Dracula it inspired, the spectacular Transylvania region has a whole lot for you to sink your teeth in. Consider its cute medieval towns, ancient fortified churches, and mighty Carpathian mountain range. It’s perfect for a spring or summer trip, but equally enchanting in winter, with low-cost ski resorts and snow-covered castles.
You can easily get by on a backpacker budget of about $30 – $40 a day in Romania. If you’re on more of a holiday, you can find cute B&Bs starting at $30/night.
Backpacker Budget: $40 a day
Mid-range Budget: $60 a day
When to go: peak season Jun-Aug – shoulder season Apr-May, Sep-Oct
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15. El Salvador
Wait, isn’t El Salvador supposed to be a crime-ridden no-go-zone?
Not so fast!
While this used to be true, a controversial but admittedly effective crackdown on gangs in 2022 and 2023 has completely transformed the security situation. El Salvador’s crime rates dropped as much as twenty-fold, putting it almost on par with the USA.
Hiking the Santa Ana Volcano trail with a stunning view of Izalco Volcano
This has granted the bite-size country a “see it before word gets out” status, with backpackers and budget travellers blazing the trail.
From surfer beaches to epic volanoes and charming colonial towns, El Salvador has some great sights, while having some of the lowest costs in Central America.
Backpacker Budget: $30 a day
Mid-range Budget: $45 a day
When to go: peak season Nov-Mar
16. Argentina
You may question why Argentina is on this list. President Javier Milei’s economic reforms have strengthened the peso, which pushed up prices and caused a 25% drop in tourism arrivals in the first half of 2025. Some travelers report prices exceeding those in Europe.
However….
Argentina is secretly still highly affordable in specific regions. While the capital Buenos Aires and the trekking hubs in Patagonia are maybe not the best bargains right now, there are other options.
I’ve been planning a revisit of Argentina focusing on the northwest. In places like Jujuy, Salta, or Tucuman you can enjoy European-like levels of development but with prices well below those of Spain. Private rooms start around $20 these smaller cities.
Yes, Argentina is still budget-friendly, though costs vary dramatically by region. This might be the ideal time to switch expensive Patagonia for the lush cloud forests, expansive salt flats, and high-altitude deserts of the north.
Backpacker Budget: $50 a day
Mid-range Budget: $70 a day
When to go: peak season Nov-Feb, shoulder season Sep-Oct, Mar-May
17. Cape Verde
Can an entire country be labelled a ‘hidden gem’? If so, then I would nominate Cape Verde!
This small archipelago off the coast of Africa is little-known but oh-so beautiful. For inexpensive resort holidays, the island of Sal has you covered. For culture and nature, it’s all about Mindelo and the magnificent island of Santo Antao. Here, I had some of my favorite hikes ever!
Misty, terraced mountains of Santo Antão
Cape Verde offers good value for money, while also being safe and fairly well-developed (in contrast mainland West Africa). I spent about $45 a day as a budget traveler, staying in B&Bs and eating the local food. Don’t miss my 7 reasons why you should travel to Cape Verde.
Backpacker Budget: $45 a day
Mid-range Budget: $70 a day
When: peak season Dec-Jan, Jun-Sep — shoulder season Feb-Apr, Sep-Nov
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18. Nicaragua
You can think of Nicaragua as the budget version of Costa Rica. While the neighboring country has a less developed tourism industry, you can have many experiences similar to Costa Rica but at just a third or less of the price.
Bite-sized Nicaragua packs a punch, with surfer towns along the Pacific coast, the beautiful colonial towns of Granada and Leon, great jungle and volcano treks, and the beautiful volcanic island-inside-a-lake of Ometepe.
Backpacker Budget: $30 a day
Mid-range Budget: $40 a day
When to go: peak season Nov-May
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19. Laos
Think of Laos as Thailand but without the mass tourism. It’s sparsely populated, mountainous, and has nearly 70% forest coverage, making it a paradise for outdoor activities like trekking, climbing, kayaking, zip-lining, and hot air ballooning — all at budget prices.
Thanks to improved infrastructure Laos has become more accessible in recent years while retaining its low-key rural vibe. That makes now the perfect time to go. If you want to escape the crowds and crave some authenticity, skip the Thai beaches and go to Laos. You won’t regret it.
Don’t miss sleeping in tree huts and zip-lining through the jungle canopy at the infamous Gibbon Experience, or Laos’ most epic waterfalls in the Bolaven Plateau.
Backpacker Budget: $25 a day
Mid-range Budget: $45 a day
When to go: peak season Nov-Feb, shoulder season Oct, Mar-Apr
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All Laos guides
20. Philippines
The best beaches in Southeast Asia? If you ask me, with over 7,000 tropical islands, Philippines is the place to go.
Besides having oodles of unspoiled coastline, it’s also a culturally fascinating place, with its mix of Asian and Spanish/US colonial influences. You’ll also find spectacular rice terraces in the north and incredible nature with jungle and volcano treks.
For a stunning beaches-and-islands-focused holiday, consider a 1 or 2-week trip to the island of Palawan.
Backpacker Budget: $35 a day
Mid-range Budget: $60 a day
When to go: peak season Dec-Feb — shoulder Nov, Apr-May
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All Philippines Guides
21. India
A “country of contrasts” is a travel writing cliche, but this definitely describes India. While it can be a place of poverty, India’s economy is also booming — and what’s most striking is the sheer range of development and prices you can experience.
A modern mid-range hotel in central Mumbai might cost you at least about 60 USD a night, whereas a room in the desert city of Jaisalmer might cost you just 5. That’s just India for you. But if you are on a budget, you can definitely travel India on a shoestring budget.
Due to the chaos and patience needed, India may not be the first overseas country to tackle, but certain regions have a reputation for being easier to travel. This includes the northern desert region of Rajasthan and the laidback tropical state of Kerala in the south.
Backpacker Budget: $15-20 a day
Mid-range Budget: $40 a day
When to go: peak season Nov-Feb, shoulder season Oct, Mar
22. Nepal
Oh, Nepal… you had me at “namaste.” The kind-hearted nature of the Nepalese and the wonderful bustle of Kathmandu instantly enchanted me when I visited a few years ago.
Nepal also happens to be one of the world’s cheapest places for mountain trekking, whether guided or independent.
There are routes throughout the Himalayas that are very well-supported and have many tea houses where you can eat and sleep. When doing the epic 7-day trek to Annapurna Base Camp I spent just under $20 a day.
Backpacker Budget: $20 a day
Mid-range Budget: $40 a day
When to go: peak season Oct-Nov — shoulder season Sep, Dec, Mar-Apr
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23. The Baltic states
Often overlooked and tucked between the Nordic countries and Russia you’ll find the three small Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
Why go? Just think ‘Scandinavia on a budget’.
Squint your eyes and the Baltics may well remind you of Finland with its many woodlands, peat bogs, lakes, and log cabins painted in deep red. The people are similarly fond of cross-country skiing, saunas, and vodka. One key difference is that the costs are just a third of what you might find in the Nordics.
I enjoyed traveling in Estonia, which has a ton of history and charm all the while also being a tech startup powerhouse. While I was sipping some local IPAs in Tallinn, a few friendly Esti’s were regaling me with tales of IPOs. It’s a wonderful mix of modern and traditional.
Tallinn’s small tourist center can be a bit pricier, but the country as a whole is very inexpensive. Great meals can be found under $8 and hotel rooms go for $35 to $46 a night.
Backpacker Budget: $35 a day
Mid-range Budget: $70 a day
24. Guatemala
In Central America, Costa Rica tends to get the most attention as a tourist destination thanks to its bundant wildlife and highly developed eco-tourism. But if you ask me, Guatemala deserves strong consideration as well. It may not be quite as developed, though its landscapes have a wow-factor that few countries can match.
Hidden in its northern jungles are the Mayan temples of Tikal, a stunning sight especially at sunrise. Equally breathtaking is the highland lake of Atitlan in the south, ringed by volcanoes and quaint villages where the pace of life is delightfully slow. And don’t miss Semuc Champey, a great place to explore river caves by candlelight and swim through cascading pools in the jungle.
And the best part? Many a traveler ends up spending under $25 a day in Guatemala.
Backpacker Budget: $25 a day
Mid-range Budget: $50 a day
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All guatemala Guides
25. Republic of Georgia
Georgia (the country) is a fascinating destination that’s right on the edge of Asia and Europe. It’s super cheap, sometimes even rivalling the low costs of countries in South or Southeast Asia.
It’s still dealing with political issues as the country decides whether it should be Western- or Russia-aligned, but despite some less-flattering news headlines in 2025 it remains a wonderful destination to visit.
In its eccentric capital, crumbling façades of traditional wooden Georgian houses stand next to Soviet-era architecture and daring contemporary designs. I loved my stay in Tbilisi and was surprised by its wonderful soul and character. From Tbilisi, you can explore the stunning Caucasian Mountain range, take a dip in the Black Sea, or visit ancient hilltop monasteries (and a few of them even built inside caves).
With 1-year visas for remote workers, it’s an ideal digital nomad hub within a stone’s throw of Europe.
Backpacker Budget: $20 a day
Mid-range Budget: $40 a day
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all georgia guides
P.S. I wrote an inspirational book that’s all about how you can travel more and travel cheaply. If you want to the world but not sure where to start or how to do it on a budget, my book will give you the answers!
P.P.S. Keep in mind the budgets listed here are only suggestions and always depend on how you travel. The suggested budgets are per person per day and don’t include one-off expenses like flights or travel insurance.
Backpacker Budget: this assumes you’ll stay in hostel dorms or share rooms in cheap guesthouses. You’ll eat mostly local food in cafes/eateries and use local transportation, and you avoid expensive private tours.
Mid-range budget: this assumes you’ll stay in nicer B&Bs, local guesthouses or budget hotels, regularly take day tours and other organized activities, and have sit-down meals in a nice restaurant at least once a day.
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