Check out our rundown of the 10 best budget travel destinations in the world.
The golden rule to budget travel as ever is flexibility, research and a bit of faith in a destination you might never have considered. In fact, when I go through this list of best places to travel on a budget, you might just discover your new favourite destination. Period!
Ok, let’s get this thing going and check out the best budget travel destinations in the world.
Our Favourite Cheap Travel Destinations: Skip Ahead!
Wanna just skip straight to the best budget travel destinations, click the one that takes your fancy:
- Best Budget Destination for Solo Travellers: Thailand
- Best Affordable Destination For Culture: Cambodia
- Cheapest Countries to Visit in Europe: Albania
- Best Budget Destination for A Culture Shock: China
- Top Budget Vacation Destination: Turkey
- Best Cheap Destination for Adventure: Vietnam
- Top Budget Destination for Everything In A Small Package: Sri Lanka
- Best Cheap Spot in Asia for Beaches: The Philippines
- Best Budget Country in Europe for Mountains: Slovenia
- Best Affordable Destination in Europe for Beaches: Croatia
Our Favourite Backpacks
Osprey Farpoint/ Fairview
We’ve used the Osprey Farpoint/ Fairview for all our backpacking adventures over the past 5 years and highly recommend them!
The main area of the pack opens like a suitcase, which is great for using packing cubes to keep everything organised and they even come with a detachable day pack!
The 10 Best Destinations for Budget Travel
So here we are, about to embark on a journey to discover where your broke ass can actually visit on your budget consisting of hopes, dreams and a few random buttons!
Well, you’re in for a wild ride and I run you through the best budget-friendly travel destinations around the world.
These cheap travel spots offer budget accommodation, affordable food and a bunch of reasonably priced activities in some of the most beautiful and exciting locations I’ve ever been to. Don’t think you’re missing out on picking a budget travel destination, oh no, what you save in money you’ll get back tenfold in experiences.
Oh, and whilst I’m at it, I should also mention visas. Yes, the bane of every traveller’s life. These pesky scraps of paper pasted into our passports can be expensive, awkward and downright frustrating. They can also turn the cheapest countries to travel to into a money pit, so be sure to double-check which ones you need before venturing off.
Right then, anyway, let’s have a look at the best places to travel on a budget in the world…
1. Thailand – Best For Solo Travellers
Ahh yes, Thailand, it’s one of the best places to go travelling on a budget and I’m pretty sure that will come as no surprise to most. In fact, many overlook it thinking it’s become unaffordable or a little too popular on the backpacker scene. But for me, it’s still one of the best budget travel destinations anywhere in the world.
Thailand offers something for every sorta traveller and I’ve never known anyone (even those adamant they would hate it) who didn’t love it. There’s just something indescribably wonderful about Thailand, from the food to the people to the varied range of incredible things to see and do.
Plus, whilst it might be more expensive than it used to be, western travellers will still find it very affordable. And those crowds, well, they exist in certain locations for sure, which is what makes it one of the best budget destinations for solo travelers, but they’re also easy to avoid even in popular areas.
Honestly, if you’re looking for cheap international travel destinations, you just can’t go wrong with Thailand! Plus, if you’re that kinda traveller it’s also done of the best backpacking destinations the world over.
More Reading On Thailand:
2. Cambodia – Best Budget Destination For Culture
Cambodia is one of my favourite budget friendly countries to visit and I feel like every time I visit I discover something new. If you’re interested in history, culture and great vibes, then this might just be the perfect destination for you.
Of course, when you think of Cambodia, Angkor Wat comes to mind and rightfully so. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting twice and each time I’ve been blown away. This massive complex offers an unrivalled glimpse into a lost civilisation from centuries ago. It’s just something you have to experience in your lifetime.
Cambodia however offers so much more including incredible beaches, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia as well as some of the most sobering historical sites in the entire region. Not bad for one of the best cheap places to go in the world.
More Reading On Cambodia:
3. Albania – Cheapest Countries To Visit In Europe
Albania is one of the best travel destinations on a budget in Europe if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-track adventure. Forget expensive trips to The Alps or overpriced holidays on the French Riviera, here you get it all in one at half the price.
Albania is a timewarp country that offers a unique look into Europe from many decades ago. Whilst transport might be a tiny bit frustrating, when you do get around, the variety of sights, from immaculate beaches to towering mountain ranges, Ottoman towns and stunning lakes, make it all worthwhile.
It’s literally got it all at a fraction of the price of most European destinations and all without the crowds too. So if you’re looking for cheap countries to travel to on the Continent, don’t overlook Albania. She’s a beaut!
More Reading On Albania
4. China – Best Budget Destination for A Culture Shock
If you’re wondering where to travel on a budget if you want a real culture shock, then consider China. Visiting here really does feel like a proper adventure and I’ll be honest, it’s not for the faint-hearted! But for those that do venture to this massive country, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by both how cheap and how incredibly intense in the best and worst ways it is!
After almost 70 countries, I’ve come to the conclusion that there is nowhere quite like China, both in how intoxicating it can be and also how bloody frustrating is! I really do have a love/hate relationship with China, but my trip was probably one of the most memorable I have ever taken.
From the maze-like streets of busy Beijing to a stroll around the peaceful architecture of Pingyao. The indescribable wonder of the roaring mountains of Zhangjiajie, Guilin and Tianshan coupled with the sheer romance of becoming lost in the history of The Forbidden City. If you’re looking for a proper travel experience, China is one of the best cheap travel destinations.
Then you’ve got the murderous rage the lack of queuing will send you into as a Brit… but hey, it’s a small price to pay! It’s still one of the best budget travel destinations on the globe.
More Reading On China
5. Turkey – Best Places For An Affordable Vacation
If you’re wondering “Where I can go on vacation on a budget?”, then be sure to have a look at Turkey. If you’re looking for an affordable and chilled-out vacation with a side helping of culture and adventure, then you’ve hit the jackpot.
I don’t know about you, but whenever I go on a “holiday” I inevitably end up bored after a day or two by the pool. Now, Turkey has an absolute ton of that, there’s enough sun, sea and sand for a lifetime of lazy vacay time. But what I really love is its intoxicating cities like Istanbul, the mindblowing landscapes of Cappadocia and the adrenaline rush of paragliding in Fethiye.
If that’s not quite your style, then Turkey also offers some of the best resorts in the world, suitable for any budget. It’s one of the cheapest vacation countries for sure. Here you’ll be able to indulge in a life of luxury without breaking the bank… and if you get bored at the beach, then just jump off a mountain instead!
More Reading For Turkey
6. Vietnam – Best Cheap Destination for Adventure
Vietnam isn’t just one of the best affordable places to travel, it’s up there with my favourite countries in the world. This budget-friendly destination has it all and if you’re up for jumping on a motorbike, then I can guarantee you the adventure of a lifetime.
Even without the bike, Vietnam offers so much for the traveller wanting to push themselves outside of their comfort zone whilst soaking in a good deal of culture and indulging in an unhealthy amount of bahn mi’s and Bia hoi!
From crawling around in the tunnels of the Viet Cong to canyoning in Da Lat, navigating the Ho Chi Minh trail or exploring some of the world’s largest caves, adventure is around every corner in Vietnam. For the quieter days, there are beautiful beaches, unspoilt rice terraces and charming towns like Hoi An.
It’s one of the best budget travel destinations for those wanting a bit of everything.
More Reading For Vietnam
7. Sri Lanka – Top Budget Destination for Everything In A Small Package
One of my favourite inexpensive travel destinations has to be Sri Lanka, this incredible country just seems to have everything in one small and accessible package. For me, it’s like a mini Southeast Asia with its Buddhist temples, rolling rice terraces, crumbling colonial architecture and unreal beaches… just with a touch more cricket just to make us poms feel at home!
Sri Lanka really does have it all and you just won’t believe how affordable it is to travel here. What’s more is that pretty much everywhere you wanna travel to here is easy to get to, so you can pack so much more into a short trip if you’re pushed for time.
Whether you wanna go hiking, spot wild elephants, wander around ancient citadels or just chillin’ on the beach in a fancy hotel…you can do it all in one here.
More Reading For Sri Lanka
8. Philippines – Best Cheap Spot in Asia for Beaches
If you’re a real beach bum and you’re looking for inexpensive countries to travel to for a bit of relaxation by the coast, The Philippines is the ONE! With over 7,641 islands, there are bound to be at least a few you’ll fall in love with.
But it’s not only about the beaches, I mean, it is pretty much all about beaches, but there are some wonderful sights to take in if you’re interested in culture, hiking or wildlife spotting. What’s more the locals in The Philippines are incredibly friendly and English is widely spoken, so you’ll have no trouble getting around or making new friends.
If you’re excited about island hopping, however, then The Philippines is absolute paradise, and the best bit, is that it’s super affordable too. You’ll be able to jump around to your heart’s desire, staying in some mega luxurious accommodation for a fraction of the price you’d pay in places like The Maldives, or Seychelles.
It might just be the cheapest holiday destination in the world!
More Reading For The Philippines
9. Slovenia – Best Budget Country in Europe for Mountains
Slovenia is one of the best budget European travel destinations if you want to explore the Alpine region without having to spend a small fortune in places like Switzerland, Austria or France. In fact, the towering mountain ranges of Slovenia are technically part of the Alps, and yet, it costs a fraction of the price.
I honestly think Slovenia might be the most underrated country in Europe, it’s just got this chilled vibe with a modern and open-minded feel. Yet architecturally, it’s got that classic fairytale Alpine style. What’s not to love? For me, it’s one of the best budget travel destinations in Europe.
Exploring gorges with crystal clear emerald water, canyoning in magnificent surroundings, hiking in glacial valleys and adrenaline-pumping white water rafting… all without breaking the bank. That’s what’s in store for those who venture to Slovenia.
More Reading For Slovenia
10. Croatia – Best Affordable Destination in Europe for Beaches
Croatia is kinda like Europe’s version of The Philippines! It’s got a shit tone of amazing islands on which to chill as well as incredible cultural gems and unbelievable architecture. It’s an island hoppers paradise and yet, just like The Philippines, it’s also got some beautiful mountains and waterfalls as you come inland.
Here’s the place to be if you want those Med vibes without the price tag. Sitting across from Italy you get the weather, food, culture and coastline minus the cost. It’s also a pretty compact country with a good-quality bus network, so it’s mega easy to get anywhere you might want to, or head on to nearby countries to continue the adventure.
It’s got to be one of the best budget international travel destinations in Europe for variety, vibes and hmm, let’s think of another word beginning with V… views! Few got there!
Honestly, you can’t not love Croatia, it’s one of the best budget travel destinations in Europe for me.
More Reading For Croatia
Getting The Right Insurance For Visting Affordable Destinations
When visiting the best budget travel destinations you need to be super careful that you don’t cut corners on the most important things… insurance being one of them.
For budget travellers, I highly recommend SafetyWing, their monthly subscription-based plan is perfect for those travelling long term and yet wanting insurance that they can easily cancel and restart when they return home. It’s super flexible and very easy to cancel if you need it.
It’s all-around top-notch for budget travellers heading to these cheap trip destinations.
Tips For Keeping Things Cheap When Travelling
Wanna double down on the cheap, even when visiting some of the best budget travel destinations, there are always ways to keep things to a budget. Here are some of my top tips.
Transport Costs
Stick to public transport like buses and trains as much as you can. Often the best prices come when you book in advance, plus you won’t get stuck having to pay for another night of accommodation if you can’t get a bus out. I recommend booking online via 12go as they are safe, reliable and can be booked way in the future.
In some countries renting out a car is actually pretty cost-effective (I’m looking at you Albania and Turkey!) In places like Albania, public transport is super frustrating, so it can save you time having your own vehicle.
Accommodation Costs
Where you stay is usually gonna take up the majority of your budget, the best way to keep things as cheap as possible is to stay in a hostel or guesthouse. Don’t worry if it’s your first time staying in a hostel, they are a lot different than you might imagine and many have private rooms and can offer unrivalled tips for things to do. Plus, they’re a great way to meet like-minded new people.
Hostelworld
Book Your Hostel At Hostelworld
For backpackers the humble hostel is their home from home. There are many amazing ones out there, but a load of rubbish too!
Get onto HostelWorld where you’ll find the worlds best hostels, great prices and honest reviews!
FAQ About The Best Budget Travel Destinations To Travel To.
What Are The Cheapest Places To Travel In Europe
If you’re looking for some cheap places to travel in Europe then remember to stick to Eastern Europe. It depends on what sort of trip you’re after but I just love the Balkan region, you’ve got beaches, mountains, culture and more in places like Croatia, Albania, Slovenia, Bosnia, Romania and Bulgaria.
The absolute cheapest places I’ve been to in Europe have been Kosovo, Moldova and Ukraine.
What is the most affordable place to travel?
In terms of regions, Eastern Europe and Asia (South/ East and Southeast) have to be the best cheap places to travel internationally and they offer so much value too.
What are the safest cheap countries to visit?
When it comes to the best places to travel for cheap, the safest countries are: Croatia, Slovenia, Thailand, Portugal, Malaysia, Poland and Bulgaria.
What is the cheapest country to fly to?
This depends on where you’re coming from, but countries like Italy, Portugal, China, Malaysia, Mexico, Poland and Romania tend to be pretty cheap to fly into.
What Are The Top 10 Cheapest Countries To Visit?
It’s subjective, but my top 10 cheapest travel destinations are: Thailand, Cambodia, Albania, China, Turkey, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Philippines, Slovenia and Croatia. I’d love to know yours.
One Final Note Before Exploring the Best Places for Budget Travel…
Right then, there you have it. I’ve compiled my list of the best and cheapest travel destinations around the world. Whilst these are only from our experience, these are all places that we’ve just been blown away by, regardless of the fact that they were easy on the wallet.
In fact, some of the best destinations in the world also seem to be those that are cheap. There’s just something so much more enjoyable about visiting a place when you don’t have to watch the pennies, amirite!?
So, now you’ve seen my list of the top budget-friendly places to visit, I would love to hear your suggestions from the destinations you’ve been to… fire away!
