A lot of people think that it is impossible to travel unless they spend a lot of money on their trips. If you are one of those people who prefer to travel the world without breaking your bank account, then you may need to check out these top 16 budget destinations no matter for solo travels or the whole family.
16 cheap places to travel internationally
Experience new things, discover new places, meet new people, and enjoy fascinating cultures as you embark on an exciting trip to these terrific places, even when you are on a tight budget.
#16 Portugal
Portugal is one of the best budget destinations on our list as well as one of the most beautiful countries around the world.
The town of Porto is suitable for budget travelers. This beautiful and cozy town boasts of its village-like plazas, beaches, and old-fashioned buildings decked in the amazing Azuelo tiles.
For just about $37 a night, you can find your decent accommodation such as inns furnished with amazing antiques.
The transportation is super affordable, you can get around the town by taking a comfortable ride on a tram for less than $2, or you can get a ferry on your way to the beach for $2 / ride.
If you want to explore other areas around the town, you can do this in a flat-bottomed boat for less than $29, and that must be enough to let you have a glimpse of every corner in this beautiful town.
#15 Macedonia
Macedonia is one of the finest places to explore if you’re looking for a budget-friendly vacation no matter for you or your whole family, because of its serene lakes, historic Byzantine churches, picturesque vineyards, and much more.
What’s more, Macedonia is an amazing stopover on your exciting Balkan trip.
The accommodation in Macedonia is quite cheap, you can find several private rooms, inns, or you can go for a nice B&B for about $72.
For transportation, there are a lot of bus services available, and these can take you to must-see places such as the GaliÄ ica National Park where you can hike, swim, or go on a boating trip.
#14 Northern Ireland
Get a load of Northern Ireland’s literature, drama, and music as you embark on this fascinating destination.
In fact, this country has invested more than $30 million into its local tourism in the past years, and foreign travelers can greatly benefit from this.
There are more affordable flights coming from Belfast & London. With several flights offered by many companies, you can take advantage and get the most of lower airfares for budget-conscious travelers.
#13 Greece
Greece is one of the most affordable destinations that you can travel to on a budget and with peace of mind.
In Fact, this country has experienced financial difficulties in the past years, which coincidentally makes it a budget-friendly destination for every travel lover.
You can find a cheap package that includes plane fare and flight for 2 for just about $2,800 and that already includes taxes as well.
This is indeed an amazing deal, as compared to the skyrocketing prices years back. Once you reach this amazing destination, you can start enjoying the magnificent beaches, historic ruins, and have a taste of authentic Greek plates and dishes.
#12 Peru
Who doesn’t love this amazing destination? Peru is one of the most popular and mind-blowing places around the world, and best of all, It’s budget-friendly.
Typically, a 5-day cruise around Amazon may cost you about $3500 excluding airfare. But you can cut down this crazy high price by dealing with locals in Iquitos, which is also the biggest city in this world that cannot be reached by land.
These locals can tailor a trip of your preference at reasonable prices, whether you are up for a tour at piranha fishing spots, go dolphin watching at the Allpahuayo Mishana National Reserve, or you can visit the Otorongo Lodge.
#11 Northeastern USA
If you are a budget traveler and you want to travel to the USA, we recommend you to go to the top 3 cities in the northeastern part of the US such as Washington DC, Boston, and New York because these cities are great places to visit for penny pinchers out there.
The best way to save your money on this trip is by taking advantage of the many budget bus companies that can connect you to various places such as Charlotte, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and Toronto.
For just $5 on a one-way trip to these places, traveling is indeed as cheap as it can get.
Aside from the relaxing ride in these buses, also you can enjoy surfing on the web during your long trip because of the free wi-fi.
Forget about renting a car, and just make sure to ride these affordable buses as you visit other parts of the US.
#10 Croatia
Croatia is amazing and has finally started to receive the international attention it so fairly deserves.
Despite it being just across the Adriatic from Italy, this extremely unique destination will cost you a fraction of what you can pay for a comparable vacation anywhere else.
Seasoned backpackers can get by on as little as $35 per day but truthfully $50 to $70 is more comfortable.
Because of high prices and hot spots like Dubrovnik, the key to stretching your budget is really exploring this beautiful country.
You can skip islands like Hvar in favor of less developed ones like Vis. Consider less known but fabulous towns like Pula which has been dubbed the Tuscany of Croatia or Novigrad and a lot of Croatia’s best features like its wonderful beaches are free to enjoy.
#9 Bulgaria
We definitely recommend southeastern Europe to those looking to stretch their budget.
In Bulgaria quite a low tourism number, and that means you’ll never feel overly crowded, and you can enjoy this country’s history and culture.
For accommodation, hostels start as low as $10, while budget hotel rooms can be as cheap and just $25 per night.
Food is also affordable both to eat out and groceries. Even a dedicated adventure type trip like downhill skiing is relatively cheap compared to what you might spend for a similar experience elsewhere.
There are many opportunities and things to do for free or low-cost in Bulgaria including hiking at Emen Canyon, and in the Balkan Mountains, visiting a variety of museums and historic spots like Baskerville monastery, and enjoying the beautiful beaches of this terrific country.
#8 Turkey
Turkey is beautiful and super affordable for budget-travelers. Many backpackers claim that you can comfortably get by in Turkey for less than $25 per day
With private double rooms that will cost you about $24 per night, we think you’re probably better budgeting your accommodation closer to $40 to $50 a day for a comfortable stay, which is still peanuts compared to many other destinations.
Street food on turkey is amazing, so can get your meals for yourself or your entire family at a reasonable price, and get the opportunity to try the true taste of Turkish food and dishes.
The landscape is diverse, Istanbul boasts some truly awe-inspiring architecture and buildings, Cappadocia is like something out of a dream, Pamukkale is like heaven on earth, and the entire country is full of unbelievable archaeological sites and has so much to offer.
#7 Philippines
This island nation is technically a part of Southeast Asia, but it has a different vibe compared to its neighbors.
Food and meals often cost less than a few bucks, unless you’re dining in a tourist trap, $1 beers are commonplace and even domestic flights are affordable.
Made up of some 7641 islands, the Republic of the Philippines is a land of adventure where there’s always something new to discover around every corner and a lot to offer to every kind of traveler.
If you like rock climbing you can climb Mount Apo or Mount Pulag, explore the beaches of Palawan and Pangasinan or Boris eye island, swim with whale sharks, go spelunking in underground caves, find your own secret island hideaway, and much more to do for free or for very low-cost.
#6 Costa Rica
Central America has a lot to offer to everyone and especially for the budget-minded, but Costa Rica, in particular, stands out by providing a whole lot for very little.
The key is you have to know how to navigate it, because of Costa Rica’s abundance of natural beauty, there are plenty of luxury experiences on offer that are targeting overstuffed wallets, but if you can skip the tourist traps, you will be sure to experience all Costa Rica has to give for less.
Even if you’re the type of traveler who prefers a hotel room over a hostel and likes to treat themselves on their trips, a medium-range budget is still very reasonable at only about $60 a day, that way you can save your money for getting to and from the major spots like Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, and the Monteverde cloud forest reserve.
#5 Georgia
The Republic of Georgia is a country at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Asia, and it has recently caught the eye of many travelers from around the world with its exceptional cultural offerings.
In the capital city, you can easily spend a small fortune but it’s not mandatory. This scenic city of winding cobblestones is known for its many affordable hidden gems in the form of shops, bars, restaurants, and accommodations as well.
As a backpacker, you can live comfortably on as little as $25 per day even if you taking taxis and eating out.
#4 Mexico
Every corner in Mexico has its own cultural peculiarities and culinary specialties and you can enjoy all that this amazing offer with a budget as low as $25 a day.
During your trip, you can sample a wide mixture of Mexico’s flavorful dishes usually for less than $5 to $7 for a full meal.
From the welcoming people to the insanely diverse landscapes which range from breathtaking beaches to mountains that call out to be hiked, and uncountable historic spots, Mexico is a destination that rewards travelers many times over.
For a truly authentic and reasonable taste of Mexico, you can check out some of the Pueblos Magicos towns throughout the country, that have been singled out as being rich in the local culture.
#3 Argentina
This amazing country is considered to be one of the most biologically diverse in the world.
Within this one nation, you can explore the rainforest and gaze upon the popular Iguazu falls, visit the lowlands and the world’s tallest active volcano Ojos del Salado, or marvel at the glaciers of Patagonia, and many more to discover and try.
Thankfully because travel to this destination is so cheap, you can take your time and do this incredible destination justice.
In total it’s recommended for a frugal but relaxed experience, to budget $30 to $50 a day.
The biggest expense that you can face is transportation, but I think considering everything that you’ll get to do, to see, taste, and explore during your trip to this amazing place, the cost of getting around is well worth it for sure.
#2 Thailand
We all know that most of Southeast Asia with an exception of Singapore of course is quite inexpensive.
As such we just as easily could have chosen to talk about saying Malaysia or Indonesia for the century, what sets Thailand apart, however, is that it provides perhaps the most bang for your buck especially if you’re a food lover.
The street food in Thailand is incredible in terms of quality, variety, and price range. Sure, you can eat Pad Thai for every meal but you also need to try Som Tam, Padstow, Gai Tod, and the limitless varieties of Satay, any of which is likely to cost a very few bucks at most.
With comfortable accommodations for just $5 to $10 a night, a budget of $20 to $25 a day is easy to maintain, and you can also consider the temples like Wat Rong Khun, magnificent landscapes, world-class beaches, and national parks, and you’ve got some of the best value travel in the world.
#1 India
For the people on a budget who like to truly immerse themselves in different cultures, you’re hard-pressed to find a satisfying or cheap travel experience than India.
This wildly diverse country might have the cheapest and best budget food and dishes on this entire list, especially if you’re happy eating vegetarian.
An entire mix tally plate is often only about $1. The accommodations are similarly low-priced you can spend under $5 per night for a room. This is for basic accommodations of course, but it gives you a starting point, right?
Considering that most attractions like temples range from free to super cheap, it’s only as low as $15 for the popular Taj Mahal, your money goes very far in this amazing country.
From friendly people to affordable food, attractions, and accommodations, I think India is the most suitable destination for budget travelers as well as the most unforgettable experience.
How to save your money and travel the world on a budget?
To help yourself plan your dream trip on a budget yet the right way, you have to keep in mind the following points:
#1 Travel in the off-peak seasons.
This is a very important thing and for many reasons including your budget. Traveling in the off-season has many benefits and you can save up to as much as more than 50% off on flight tickets and accommodation costs as well if you plan to travel in off-season times.
#2 Stay away from popular tourist spots (If they aren’t on your “must-see” list).
If you can go off the beaten track with your destinations, things can be low-priced to see and do and your cultural experiences will be richer.
#3 Try camping.
Camping is something amazing and it is not only the most affordable form of accommodation, but it’s also a fantastic way to get up close and personal to nature, and in my opinion, It’s the best way to explore National Parks and Heritage listed areas.
#4 Look for special travel packages or offers.
When you look for a travel package or offer make sure you check everything that they include – and don’t include.
#5 Invest in a travel pass if possible.
In many developed countries like Japan, you can find a rail or bus transport system where you can obtain daily, weekly or monthly passes that you can take advantage of it and it will get you around for much less.
#6 Get a work permit if you aim to gain employment while traveling abroad.
Working can help subsidize places that are expensive, such as Europe or Australia.
#7 Exchange rates on the $.
Make sure to look for good exchange rates on the $, and this may help you a lot to decide which destination to travel to.
#8 Consider the length of your trip
Think about shortening your visit to destinations that aren’t cheap, and increasing your length of stay in inexpensive places.
#9 Hotels Extras.
Avoid paying for extras when staying in a hotel. I know it’s difficult but if you want to save yourself some money make sure not to do this:
- Don’t take anything from the honor bar.
- Make sure to not watch the in-house movies.
- Use your personal phone.
- Try not to use room service too much as well.
#10 Try Couchsurfing
If you don’t want to camp or to stay in an expensive hotel, you can try Couchsurfing. There are a lot around the world and you can find endless websites where you can look for one such as Couchsurfing.com.
Final Thoughts
Traveling should not only be a pastime for the rich and famous. When done on a budget it is available to one and all!
Traveling to destinations such as those listed above is not only a means of saving money, it can allow for a complete travel experience. You will do a lot of things that are new for you, you will see several things that are ordinarily off the beaten path, and will meet a more diverse group of welcoming and friendly people as well.
Often travelers are herded into amazing and trendy places around the world instead of seeing the true beauty of their destination.
Related: 10 Most beautiful places to Visit in Switzerland – Ultimate list
