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Cheap Holiday Ideas: 8 Budget Vacation Deals

While many of us dream of traveling the world (or at least taking a few months off from work in pursuit of adventure), it’s not always feasible — even for those with the best of intentions. A lot of things can get in the way.

I frequently talk about long-term travel and round-the-world trips , but I know that realistically, not everyone can take those kinds of trips — or wants to. I don’t think traveling the world as a digital nomad is hard , but I also know that what I do isn’t for everyone.

Some people just want to go on a cheap vacation for a few weeks. Not everyone has the time or interest in taking an extended trip.

And that’s perfectly ok!

So, what do you do when you only have a short amount of time and a limited budget? What are some budget vacation ideas that  aren’t about traveling the world?

Even if you don’t want to backpack Cambodia for three months or walk the Camino de Santiago , there are many ways to get on the road and see the world without breaking the bank!

Here are eight cheap travel ideas if you are cash-strapped and/or time-poor:

Table of Contents

1. Be a Local Tourist

2. travel regionally, 3. go to national (and regional) parks, 4. book a last-minute cruise (or book far in advance), 5. think outside the box, 6. book a last-minute tour, 7. become a house sitter, 8. grab a cheap flight, want more cheap vacation ideas.

We’re all guilty of this. It took me five years to see the Jim Thompson House in Bangkok (even after living there), and I’ve still never been to Bunker Hill in Boston despite spending the first 24 years of my life there.

We always put it off until tomorrow , because when we live in a city, we think there is always a tomorrow.

We get so caught up in our daily lives we forget that we can have a cheap vacation in our own city. We don’t have to go anywhere!

If you’re short on time and money, there’s no better way to spend some free time than to wander your own city. No matter what its size, it has a number of wonders that you’ve never seen or even known about because you just haven’t explored it like you would somewhere far-flung and “exotic.”

Explore your city the way you would explore it if it were half a world away. Be a traveler in your own town and look at it with new eyes. You might just be surprised!

Check and see what unique activities you can do that you wouldn’t do otherwise. To see what fun activities are available near you, check out Get Your Guide .

EatWith can also be found in cities all around the world, offering unique, locally-created culinary experiences. You’ll get to try new food and meet new people — all while staying in your own backyard!

Additionally, check and see if there are any walking or cycling tour companies in your city (or nearby cities). Take Walks runs fun, detailed, and insightful tours in cities all around the world. I always book a tour with them when I want to get beneath the surface of a destination!

Moreover, if you live in a large city, be sure to go to your local tourism office and get a city tourism pass. These cards allow you to see a wide range of local attractions for free or reduced prices and can be your way to see your local sites on a budget. They aren’t just for outsiders!

Important Tip: When you become a local tourist, check out of your house and into a hotel, hostel, or guesthouse. It’s important to get out of your familiar environment because if you stay home, you’ll find something to do around the house and create excuses for why you can’t sightsee.

To find accommodation, Booking.com is the best place to start. It has an easy-to-use interface and generous cancellation policies should you change your mind.

Moving to a different location can help give you that feeling of adventure, excitement, and unfamiliarity.

LEARN MORE :

• Staycations: 5 Ways to Embrace Your Next Holiday at Home
• How to Find Cheap Accommodation in 7 Easy Steps
• My Favorite Hostels Around the World
• How to Find the Perfect Airbnb

But I could say the same thing as my Aussie friends.

I grew up in Boston , and from there, I could road-trip New England and visit New Hampshire, the woods of Maine, the bed-and-breakfasts of the Berkshires, or the farms of Vermont. New York was a four-hour car ride from home.

How often did I do that? Not often enough!

Exploring your own region is an underrated and often overlooked aspect of travel. It gets the occasional lip service in magazines, but driving across the United States made me realize how much our own countries have to offer us and how often we overlook that for some foreign place.

There’s something special about being a stranger in your homeland and realizing you really don’t know as much about it as you thought.

We think because we’re born in a place we understand it but every country has regional differences that make it unique and, unless we travel to see and experience them, we’ll never fully understand the place we call home.

Driving across the US taught me a lot about this . It gave me a deep appreciation for the country, the people, and the diversity within its borders. It broke down stereotypes and misconceptions I had about the different regions in the US.

My time exploring my own backyard was just as important to my growth as any trip to a foreign country.

If you’re on a limited budget, can’t afford a flight or a trip to exotic lands, or just want to do something different, don’t forget that you can always travel around your own country. It can be just as powerful as going abroad.

Budget-friendly bus companies like FlixBus can help you travel your region on the cheap. They have routes around Europe and the US, with tickets starting at just $5 USD!

• The Great American Road Trip: A 4 Month Itinerary
• How to Road Trip Across the USA on a Budget
• A 21-Day Road Trip Itinerary Around the Deep South
• A 7-Day Southern California Road Trip Itinerary

In many countries, particularly in Europe (especially Scandinavia), you can camp on public lands for free. In the United States, you can camp on undeveloped BLM (Bureau of Land Management) lands for free, provided the spot you choose is a sufficient distance from established campgrounds and you follow local restrictions.

Additionally, you go camping stocked with all your own supplies and accommodation (i.e., a tent), so you don’t have to worry about spending lots of extra money once you have the gear. Your food bill can be whatever you spend on groceries and nothing more. Just be sure to leave no trace of your stay at your campsite and pack out anything you brought with you.

You don’t need to love camping to spend time in the national parks, either. Personally, I hate camping. I’m not the camp-in-a-tent kind of guy; I need toilets, beds, and hot water. Luckily, many parks provide cabins for rent. While hiking the Grand Canyon, I stayed at a national park lodge at the bottom. I had a room in a dormitory, but for a few nights, it was the cheap accommodation I needed.

And while national parks are impressive, state or provincial parks can be just as spectacular, but with fewer crowds, and easier to access. There’s almost always a park nearby and spending a few days with nature is not only good for your wallet but also good for your mental health.

Looking for a more unique experience? Campspace is a website that lets people camp in someone’s backyard, garden, parked camper, or private land for a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for unique camping spots.

Want to do a mini road trip around your region? Use RVShare to rent an RV from a local for cheap!

And if you’re looking to rent a car, use Discover Cars to find the best rental car prices.

• Hiking the Grand Canyon
• The Girl’s Guide to Hiking Solo
• How to Plan a Successful RV Trip

But, if you’re the last passenger running onto that ship, you can find some sweet deals.

Cruise lines always offer incredible last-minute deals. No cruise company wants to leave with half the cabins empty. If you wait until a few weeks before departure, you can usually find some really amazing deals as cruise lines scramble to find passengers. Plus, cruise operators always throw in some onboard amenities, free upgrades, and cash vouchers to sweeten the deal.

The website CruiseSheet often has cruises as low as $50 per day! (It’s the best cruise booking website in the world!)

Conversely, if you book over a year in advance, cruise lines also offer amazing low fares for early birds.

Cruises are the one form of travel for which I recommend visiting a travel agent if you’re part of a big group. They have wonderful working relationships with the operators and can score better packages than booking online.

After you book, keep an eye out on prices, because if they drop, you can often call your travel agent or the cruise company itself to get a partial refund or vouchers to use for dining and alcohol on the boat.

The cruise industry was drastically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Most cruise lines lost billions of dollars, which means there are some amazing deals out there if you’re looking to plan a cruise.

That said, lots of passengers ended up stuck in quarantine on cruise ships as well. Cruise ships, while fun, can easily turn into floating petri dishes, so make sure if you book a cruise that you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers cruises in case you get sick.

• How to Find a Cheap Cruise
• The Best Cruise Travel Insurance
• The 20 Best Tropical Islands in the World

The list goes on and on. There are countless cheap alternatives and budget destinations around the world!

Travel counter to the prevailing trend.

Zig when everyone zags.

If people are going in the summer, you go in the spring or winter. Skip the popular destinations and head off the beaten path a bit.

Contrarian travel will save you a bundle of money. It’s like reverse commuting. While others heading into the city in the morning for work are stuck in traffic, you breeze the opposite way hassle-free. The same is true for travel.

The more you are a contrarian in where — and when — you go, the better off your wallet will be. Plus, you’ll enjoy destinations more because there will be fewer crowds. No one loves a crowd!

LEARN MORE : 

• 10 Destinations to Visit on a Budget
• Cheap Places to Visit on the US Dollar

Why are tours so cheap last-minute? Well, think about how people plan vacations. You get the time off work, you book your vacation, you buy your flight, and you go. Since people pre-book, prices are higher in advance because these companies understand booking patterns and then price accordingly.

As departure time nears, companies know people aren’t likely to turn up and book on departure day, so they sweeten the price to increase bookings. So take the time off work, wait until the week before, see what’s cheap, and then go.

My favorite company, Intrepid Travel , often offers 15–30% discounts on last-minute tours.

• How to Choose the Perfect Tour Company
• The Best Tour Companies in Europe
• The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

A way around that is to stay somewhere for free.

While I like Couchsurfing , it’s hard to do that for two weeks without annoying your host. A unique way to overcome this is to housesit for someone while they are on vacation. You get free accommodation, a kitchen to cook in, and the chance to explore a destination in depth. It’s a pretty unique way to travel and one that I know a lot of world travelers take advantage of. You can even do this in your own region too, to cut down on transportation costs.

The best way to secure housesitting gigs is to build up your portfolio of reviews on a site like Trusted Housesitters by starting small. Find opportunities near you so secure a few reviews before you start competing for housesitting gigs in popular places like NYC or Paris (since those are more competitive). If you’re willing to do housesits in “less popular” destinations you can easily find opportunities.

• How to Become a Housesitter
• How to Start House Sitting

With those sites, you can type in “(the closest airport to you)” for your departure city and “everywhere” for your destination. Then a list of the cheapest flights appears in front of your very eyes, so you can choose where to go within your budget. This is how I decide where to go when I don’t have a specific place in mind. It’s a great tool!

The website Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) is another great way to find rock bottom flight prices. They scour the web daily and send the cheap flights they find directly to your inbox, saving you hundreds of dollars – as well as the time spent to find those deals!

The key to finding the best deals is to be flexible — with either your dates or your destination (but ideally both). The more flexible you are, the more likely it is that you’ll be able to snag a great deal.

• The Ultimate Guide to Finding a Cheap Flight
• Going (Scott’s Cheap Flights) Review
• How to Buy A Round-The-World Ticket

Not everyone can jump overseas at the drop of a hat or spend six months backpacking around Europe or Asia . A fancy vacation to Mexico may be out of your reach.

But while you might not have a lot of time or money, there’s more than one way to see the world.

After all, travel is simply the art of going somewhere new and different and exploring everything the place has to offer. It doesn’t matter if you have two days, two weeks, or two months. Use these cheap vacation ideas and go explore on a budget. You might just be surprised what you discover.  

Here are a few more posts that can help you plan an epic trip without breaking the bank:

• Ten Destinations Under $50
• 10 Best Places to Travel on a Budget
• The Ultimate Guide to Traveling When You Have No Money
• How to Travel the World on $50 A Day

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)
• Insure My Trip (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.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter 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 earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Budget trips: 20 of the cheapest places to travel

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That ever-growing travel wish list might be putting pressure on your pocket – but there are plenty of destinations where you'll get more bang for your buck. From Greece to Guatemala , here are 20 of the cheapest places to travel.

1. Thailand — for fantastic local food and more

2. south africa for safari adventures at an incredible value, 3. vietnam for an affordable country with a lot to offer, 4. uruguay — for a budget destination with beaches, 5. cuba: a cheap destination with very few tourists.

• 6. Prague, Czech Republic — one of Europe's most affordable destinations

7. Greece for popular tourist destinations on a budget

8. guatemala: one of the cheapest countries to learn spanish, 9. bulgaria for an underrated tourist destination, 10. india: an all-time favourite for budget travellers, 11. portugal for a cheap country in western europe, 12. bolivia for natural beauty on a budget, 13. mexico: one of the cheapest places to travel, 14. new orleans — one of the cheapest major cities in the usa, 15. laos for national parks and more, 16. the gambia for a cheap destination with nature, 17. shanghai, china for delicious street food, 18. save money in istanbul, turkey, 19. london — for free things to do in a capital city, 20. egypt for one of the most memorable cheap travel destinations, plan your perfect trip.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget — your essential guide to making the most of this great region without breaking the bank. You might also want to discover how to explore the world's most expensive city without breaking the bank — find out how to visit Tel Aviv on a budget .

There’s a reason why Thailand remains so popular with backpackers. It’s got idyllic islands , a rich culture, beach huts aplenty, tantalising local food and adventures galore , and all are available at often staggeringly low prices.

Despite the well-trodden routes through the country, it’s not hard to get away from the crowds. Check out Nakhon Si Thammarat for some of the very best food the country has to offer or hire a motorbike to make the 600km trip along the Mae Hong Son Loop through the forested northern mountains. See why Thailand made our list of the best places to travel alone.

Find budget places to stay in Thailand

The Great Holy Relics Pagoda Nabhapolbhumisiri, Chiang Mai, Thailand - still one of the cheapest places to travel © Shutterstock

One of the great things about travelling in South Africa next to the beautiful landscapes is that it’s possible to have a safari experience here – complete with the Big Five – without encountering a budget-breaking bill. Head to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi to see a white rhino and avoid the crowds of Kruger .

Head to the Drakensberg for superlative hiking. Don’t forget to factor in at least a few days in the amazing Cape Town or Johannesburg to experience the nightlife in South Africa .

Start planning your trip with the best time to visit South Africa and our collection of the best road trips across South Africa .

Find budget places to stay in South Africa

Cape Town — popular with budget travellers © Mark Van Overmeire/Shutterstock

Vietnam is one of the best and cheapest places to travel. The country’s greatest attraction is its sublime countryside, from the limestone karsts of the north to the waterways and paddy fields of the Mekong Delta , with blissful beaches and frenetic cities crammed in between - see our reader's vote for the most beautiful places in Vietnam .

Then there’s the cuisine – pull up a stool at a pho stall and for just a few dollars you’ll eat some of the best food on offer, shoulder to shoulder with the locals. Check out our 9 tips for backpacking Vietnam and the best time to visit Vietnam , plus discover how to get off the tourist trail before you go.

Street Pho - Vietnam street food options make it a great cheap place to travel © JNEZAM/Shutterstock

If you’ve already visited Brazil and Argentina , or are just looking for a better value destination in South America, head instead to neighbouring Uruguay. You’ll be relieved to hear you can still find excellent steak here and some amazing restaurants .

Plus, there are plenty of lovely beaches to choose from – head to Cabo Polonio for quieter sands and abundant wildlife – and the gorgeous old capital of Montevideo. Want to learn more? You'll find all the information you need to plan a budget trip in our Rough Guide to South America on a Budget .

Find budget places to stay in Uruguay

Uruguay. Punta del Este - a great place to go on a tight travel budget © Chaykovsky Igor/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Since relations between Cuba and the US started rapidly warming up, there's never been a better time to visit this Caribbean island. Go now before it changes beyond recognition – and before the prices start to go up and up even more.

Hit the salsa clubs of Havana , get caught up in the heady July carnival of Santiago, or dip your toes in the warm Caribbean at one of the picture-perfect beaches in Cuba – whatever you do, you’ll find it hard not to leave utterly intoxicated.

Get started with these 12 tips for backpacking Cuba , the best places to go on your first trip to Cuba and the best time to visit Cuba .

Cuba is a great place for cheap travel © Pixabay

6. Prague, Czech Republic — one of Europe's most affordable destinations

Despite being firmly on the tourist – not to mention bachelor party – trail these days, Prague still remains one of Europe’s cheapest capital cities to visit. For just a few Czech Crowns you can enjoy a hearty meal of Czech food , washed down with decent local Czech beer (of course).

The city itself is a beauty, crammed full of history and perfect for leisurely explorations by foot - check here to see how to avoid the crowds in Prague , and a great train travel itinerary starting in Prague. Want to explore more of Europe on the cheap? Check out The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget .

Where to stay in Prague

• For Baroque touches with a view : Questenberk
• For gardens and views: Golden Well Hotel
• For budget stays : Adeba Hotel

Find places to stay on a budget in Prague

Save money when travelling to Prague © Shutterstock

Greece has been having a tough time economically in the past few years. It finally started trading on financial markets in mid-2018 after years of bailouts, but for many, making ends meet day-to-day is still hard.

If anything, the financial situation is all the more reason to travel here and to support the local people. Prices are still cheaper than they once were, so you might be able to squeeze an extra Greek island or one of the beautiful beaches into your itinerary.

Pay by credit card for whatever you can in advance, but take enough cash with you for your travels, and you’re pretty much guaranteed an amazing trip. Read our indispensable travel tips for Greece by Nick Edwards, co-author of The Rough Guide to Greece , before you go - and of course, the best Greek food you need to try.

Find budget places to stay in Greece

Greece — one of the best budget destinations © Anastasios71/Shutterstock

It’s hard not to fall under the spell of Guatemala and its compelling mix of natural beauty, Mayan traditions and colonial legacies. Rock-bottom prices make this one of the best places to study Spanish.

Once your linguistic skills are up to scratch, jump onto one of the country’s famous camionetas or “chicken buses” to explore. Soak up the sights of graceful Antigua in the south of the country, explore Guatemala City or be wowed by the monumental Maya temples of Tikal .

For planning your trip, check out the best time to travel to Guatemala . It's also easy to extend your trip to see more of Central America, too.

Find budget places to stay in Guatemala

Guatemala for affordable accommodation and more © Shutterstock

Often unfairly overlooked, Bulgaria has a lot to offer budget travellers – not least some of the most deserted beaches in Europe, at bargain prices. In addition to its appealing coastline, there are also lots of lovely old towns.

One of the best and cheapest places to travel is Varna on the coast. Or the ancient Plovdiv — which made our Rough Guide list of the Best Places to Travel this year. Bulgaria also boasts a number of dramatic mountain ranges that are perfect for exploration on foot or by bike.

Find budget places to stay in Bulgaria

The underrated country of Bulgaria © Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock

India is such a vast country and remains one of the ultimate destinations among the cheapest places to travel. There are few countries where you can still travel so extensively and eat so well for so little.

If you’re after a beach break, eschew Goa for the gorgeous beaches of the temple town of Gokarna. For amazing food, it’s hard to beat the puris and kebabs of Mumbai’s street stalls or head to the Golden City of Jaisalmer from where you can explore the seemingly endless sands of the Thar Desert. Need more inspiration? Check out our favourite places off the tourist trail .

Varanasi, India © Shutterstock

Portugal remains one of the best bargains in Western Europe and is especially worth considering if you want to avoid the more crowded resorts and cities of Spain. Skip the Algarve for the ruggedly beautiful Alentejo coast (with its cheap, fresh seafood) and vibrant, uber-cool Lisbon. If you're not sure where to start, read our top tips for travelling in Portugal and discover the best of Lisbon's food scene .

Find budget places to stay in Portugal

Portugal is arguably the cheapest country in Western Europe © Shutterstock

One of the cheapest places to travel in South America, Bolivia is also one of its most misunderstood . Travelling here may be a little uncomfortable at times, but it’s more than worth it for the wealth of amazing sights on offer.

Top of the list is undoubtedly the astounding Salar de Uyuni salt flats, a two or three-day tour of which will usually set you back less than £100/$150. Plan your trip with The Rough Guide to South America on a Budget , and be sure to try at least some of these best things to do in Bolivia .

Find budget places to stay in Bolivia

Salar de Uyuni - Bolivia is one of the cheapest places to travel in South America © Shutterstock

Your budget will definitely stretch to tacos and tequila aplenty in Mexico – which is great news as there’s a lot of ground to cover in this vibrant country.

Whether you want to string your hammock up along dazzling white sands, sample some of the country’s best street food in Oaxaca or cool off in a crystal-clear cenote (sunken swimming hole), the country will leave you eager to come back for more. To kick-start your wanderlust, these are 12 of our favourite places to visit in Mexico .

Find budget places to stay in Mexico

Zipolite beach, Oaxaca, Mexico © Shutterstock

You can’t escape from music in New Orleans – and with buskers on what often seems like every corner, and music in every courtyard and bar, it’s not hard to experience the city’s musical heritage without spending much more than the price of a beer.

The city is best experienced slowly, and on foot; it’s hard to beat people-watching over a cup of coffee and a plate of sugar-dusted beignets at the Café du Monde. Find out where to sample the city's top cocktails with our best bar guide .

Where to stay in New Orleans

• For a budget-conscious alternative: Hotel Provincial
• For classic New Orleans charm: Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter

Find budget places to stay in New Orleans

Bourbon St, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Even in a region of the cheapest places to travel, Laos stands out. It’s hard not to be captivated by the slow pace of the country.

Head just north of elegant Luang Prabang to riverside Nong Khiaw, where for a small change you can bag a waterside bungalow and watch the boats travel up and down the karst-surrounded river over a cold bottle of Beer Lao. Get the full lowdown on this enchanting and unspoiled corner of Southeast Asia with The Rough Guide to Laos .

Find budget places to stay in Laos

Laos is famous for its national parks and more © akedesign/Shutterstock

Africa’s smallest country is already known for its beautiful beaches, but it’s well worth venturing beyond them to experience its other delights . Top of the list has to be the Chimp Rehabilitation Centre in the River Gambia National Park, where you can watch the primates in their natural habitat.

For birdlife, Baobolong Wetland Reserve is arguably the best place for ornithology on the continent and is at its most atmospheric at sunset. Read on for 8 off-the-beaten-track experiences in the Gambia.

Find budget places to stay in The Gambia

Gambia is Africa's smallest country © Dave Montreuil/Shutterstock

The biggest appeal for budget – if not all travellers – to Shanghai is undoubtedly the abundance of amazing street food on offer, from xiao long bao soup dumplings to scallion pancakes and sticky rice parcels ( zongzi ).

It’s still possible to find an accommodation bargain at the lower end of the scale, and much of the city’s appeal lies in exploring its busy streets on foot and experiencing for yourself the juxtaposition between old and new China. You'll find recommendations for where to find the city's best street eats and budget sleeps in The Rough Guide to Shanghai .

Find budget places to stay in Shanghai

Shanghai for street food and more © Shutterstock

With one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, Istanbul is undeniably alluring. Though seeing all the major sights – the Aya Sofya, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace to name but a few – can quickly eat into your lira, the city can still be great for tighter budgets.

Arguably the best ways to really soak up the city are from a Bosphorus ferry, wandering the streets of the Grand Bazaar or on a streetside terrace with a freshly-cooked kebab - read up our Turkish food guide before you go.

Where to stay in Istanbul

• For views: Hotel Poem
• For B&B: Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci
• For location: Boutique Saint Sophia

Find budget places to stay in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey © Shutterstock

First things first – we know London is not cheap. There’s no denying that even staying in hostels, using public transport and eating in cafés is going to massively eat into your budget.

But – and it’s a big but – there are few places in the world that can rival the capital city for its plethora of free sights, where you can see the Rosetta Stone and the Lindow Man, works by Monet and Dalí, not to mention dinosaur and blue whale skeletons, for absolutely nothing. Get off on the right foot by choosing the right area to stay .

Find budget places to stay in London

Hampstead Heath during the summer months in London © Chris Seddon/Shutterstock

Considering the abundance of mind-blowing ancient sights, you’d expect travel to Egypt to cost a lot more than it does. Sure, if you tick off all the major attractions – including the Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings and Abu Simbel – then costs are going to creep up, but tempered with cheap (and excellent) food and decent budget accommodation, it’s not hard to feel like you’re almost able to live like a Pharaoh.

Note, that due to safety concerns some governments currently advise against travel to certain parts of the country; check the latest advice before you go.

Find budget places to stay in Egypt

Egypt is a fantastic travel destination © Shutterstock

Want to travel without the hassle of planning and booking? Our local experts can plan wonderful trips for you to anywhere you have been dreaming of travelling. Simply get in touch when you would like to travel. We will then create a personalized itinerary, which you can amend until you are totally happy with every detail of the booking. All of our planned itineraries can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Inspired to take a trip to Europe? Don't miss our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget for more tips on making the most of this great region without breaking the bank.

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100 Cheapest Places to Travel in the World

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Want to find the cheapest places to travel? You’re in the right spot.

Welcome to our annual report on the world’s most affordable travel destinations! We’ve updated our rankings for 2022, and we even have a new number one…but we’ll get to that in a bit!

Finding cheap vacation ideas can be frustrating. Getting the best travel deals typically takes hours of time-consuming research – including comparing hotels,  finding cheap flights , and considering your meal options. And this is  after  you’ve spent weeks researching where to go.

So, we’ve taken the top 100 travel destinations in the world and ranked them according to price. You’re welcome.

Before we get started, though, don’t forget to grab our free travel checklist! It’s a great tool to help you get organized and save money on your next big trip. Just click the button below to get it now. (You’re welcome again!)

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #1-#10

Without further ado, here’s our list of the cheapest places to travel in the world for 2022.

1) Hanoi, Vietnam

Average Cost: $19.75/day

For the first time ever, Hanoi has managed to grab the top spot on our list of cheap places to travel. As the capital of Vietnam, the city is a cultural hub full of museums and important places of interest. The hectic Old Quarter is definitely something you don’t want to miss. Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake are also popular spots for tourists.

2) Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Average Cost: $19.83/day

Known as Saigon before the Vietnam War, Ho Chi Minh City is home to a vibrant arts scene and loads of French colonial architecture. Many visitors enjoy spending time in the energetic Ben Thanh Market, where street vendors serve up local flavors at a price that can fit inside anyone’s budget. Those seeking quieter spaces will enjoy wandering through the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels built by the Viet Cong during the war that span thousands of miles. It’s also worth noting that Ho Chi Minh City ranks in the top 6 cheapest places to travel for food and beverage prices, while it comes in at #2 for the cheapest places to stay.

3) Pattaya, Thailand

Average Cost: $27.51/day

Sure, there are plenty of cultural activities for visitors to enjoy in Pattaya, Thailand. However, what people really come here for is the beach. Situated on the Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya’s is home to some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll find anywhere. The area is also famous for its lively nightlife and excellent shopping. Best of all, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to stay here. Pattaya ranks 4th on our list for the cheapest places to stay and 11th in daily food costs.

4) Phuket, Thailand

Average Cost: $28.34/day

Do you love cheap vacation spots that are home to beautiful mountains, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches? Traveling to Phuket, Thailand may be for you. Although some luxury travel options are available, one of the best things about this island is that you don’t have to mortgage the house to stay here. There are plenty of 3 and 4-star accommodations from which to choose. In fact, of all the travel destinations we’ve surveyed, Phuket ranks #1 for cheapest hotel costs. As with other places in Thailand, the nightlife here won’t disappoint you either.

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5) Samui, Thailand

Average Cost: $29.18/day

Samui, Thailand continues the run for Thailand and is also the first of 20 new destinations to make our list. The second largest island in Thailand, Samui (a.k.a. “Ko Samui”) has become a bustling tourist destination. Resorts, bungalows, and private villas, grace the palm-lined beaches. Visitors should also check out the famous Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai Temple.

6) Bangkok, Thailand

Average Cost: $30.06/day

Bangkok ranks as the cheapest place to eat on our survey. That, in combination with its affordable hotels, helps the city land solidly inside our top ten for this year. The relatively high cost of beverages is the only thing keeping it from moving higher. Renowned for its exciting nightlife and entertainment, Bangkok isn’t just a party town. While you’re there, don’t miss out on the city’s amazing religious sites, including the Wat Phra Kaew – the most sacred Buddhist Temple in Thailand. There’s also the Grand Palace, the Wat Arun Temple, and some serious shopping for you to enjoy.

7) Krabi, Thailand

Average Cost: $31.05/day

You know those beautiful photos of the jagged limestone cliffs you see on Instagram? Most of those are pictures of Thailand, and many of them come from Krabi province. Located just across the bay from Phuket, Krabi is a super cheap vacation idea. While it may cost a few bucks to get over there, Krabi ranks in the top 10 for both meals and accomodations. With those types of prices, Krabi has definitely been added to our bucket list!

8) Chiang Mai, Thailand

Average Cost: $31.42/day

Chiang Mai is one of the most interesting places to travel in Thailand, and one of the world’s best bargain vacations. Chiang Mai offers the 5th cheapest food prices and the 9th most affordable accomodations of any destination on our list. Located in the mountains of northern Thailand, the city is home to countless Buddhist temples and sacred religious sites. Nature and wildlife tours are also popular excursions in Chiang Mai.

9) Delhi, India

Average Cost: $36.70/day

Delhi scores high marks for its low prices across the board, which helps keep it in the top 10 on our list of the world’s cheapest places to travel. With an estimated 30.7 million inhabitants living in the metropolitan area, the city is also huge. Delhi is home to a ridiculous amount of important sacred and religious sites. At just 3.5 hours away by car, it’s also a decent starting point to explore the Taj Mahal. Be sure to check out the Chandni Chowk bazaar and the Red Fort as well.

10) Cusco, Peru

Average Cost: $37.24/day

Rounding our top 10 cheapest destinations in the world is Cusco, Peru. A newcomer to our list, Cusco also snags the distinction of being the cheapest place to travel in South America. This mountain town was once the capital of the Incan Empire and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The city features well-preserved archeological sites as well as some great examples of Spanish colonial architecture.

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #11-#20

11) istanbul, turkey.

Average Cost: $41.42/day

For more than 2,000 years, Istanbul has straddled the continents of Europe and Asia, making it one of the most important and culturally rich cities in the world. It is literally the point on the map where east and west collide. Thankfully, it is still one of the cheapest places to visit, too. Prices for hotels, food, and beverages all rank within the top 20 of our list.

12) Antalya, Turkey

Average Cost: $43.93/day

Moving from the city to the beach, Antalya is a Turkish resort city located on the country’s Mediterranean coast. It’s also one of the cheapest vacation spots in the world. Known for its beaches and Old Harbor, the city serves as the gateway to Turkey’s “Turquoise Coast,” named for the beautiful blue waters that are found there. But, beaches aren’t the only thing that Antalya has going for it. The area is home to museums, ancient Roman ruins, and a variety of waterfalls that give Antalya a certain splash appeal.

13) Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt

Average Cost: $46.20/day

Sharm El-Sheik is an Egyptian resort town located on the Siani Peninsula and sits directly on the Red Sea. The inviting sandy beaches and clear waters make this a great spot to kick back and relax. If you’re more adventurous, get up close and personal with a diverse aray of sealife wile enjoying a diving trip to Ras Muhammad National Park. When you’re done, be sure to grab a drink and a bite to eat while strolling along the promenade at Naama Bay.

14) Cairo, Egypt

Average Cost: $46.70/day

If checking out some ancient Egyptian ruins is more your speed, Cairo may be the place for you. Luckily, if you enjoy budget travel, it still ranks as one of the cheapest places to travel in the world. While you’ll want to visit Tahrir Square and several of the city’s museums and mosques, Cario’s biggest tourist attraction is the nearby location of Giza – home of both the Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx.

15) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Average Cost: $47.47/day

Known throughout the world for its incredible beaches and nightlife, Rio de Janeiro is also one of the most affordable places to visit. Lucky for tourists, the pandemic appears to have made things even cheaper. Food prices have dropped in Rio, moving from the middle of the pack pre-pandemic to the top 25 today. Hotels have also gotten cheaper, ranking inside the top 20, while Rio ranks a stellar #9 for beverage prices. In addition to visiting Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, you’ll want to check out the famous “Christ the Redeemer” statue towering over the city from the mountains above. While attending the city’s Carnival festival (the world’s largest) may be on your bucket list, remember that prices during this time of year are significantly more expensive.

16) St. Petersburg, Russia

Average Cost: $48.34/day

Serving as its capital for more than 200 years, St. Petersburg is one of the best places to travel in Russia. The city has a more European feel than other cities in the country, and that goes beyond just the architecture. St. Petersburg is filled with dozens of museums, churches, and historic sites. Prices for hotels in St. Petersburg are also the cheapest of any European city you’ll find on our list. Coming in as the 5th cheapest city for hotels is the main reason St. Petersburg tops our list as the cheapest European city to visit in 2022.

17) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Average Cost: $50.76/day

Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia and one of the most visited cities in the world. The city itself is instantly recognizable because of the Petronas Towers – the tallest twin skyscrapers in the world. Although Kuala Lumpur has plenty of notable sites, touring the Batu Caves makes for a great day trip outside the city.

18) Mexico City, Mexico

Average Cost: $52.26/day

Mexico City is one of the largest cities in the world, and – by our numbers – the cheapest place to travel in North America. With world-class museums, incredible architecture, and historical sites, Mexico City is a religious and cultural mecca that deserves a spot on your budget travel destinations list. While you’re there, take a day trip to the famed Aztec temple Teotihuacan – known as the “Pyramid of the Sun.” If you’re traveling with the kids, a stop by Six Flags Mexico may also be in order.

19) Buenos Aires, Argentina

Average Cost: $53.18/day

Continuing it’s rise in both popularity and our rankings, Buenos Aires jumped inside the top 20 on our list of cheapest places to visit. Tourists will find Buenos Aires to be one of South America’s most cosmopolitan areas. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Casa Rosada, Argentina’s famous presidential palace. The Teatro Colon, a 2,500 seat opera house, is also worth a visit.

20) Zhuhai, China

Average Cost: $54.25/day

Neighboring Macau, but significantly less expensive, is the thoroughly modern Chinese city of Zhuhai. While Macau offers more adult-themed entertainment (like casinos), Zhuhai can be considered more family friendly. In addition to golf courses and parks, the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is one of the most popular attractions here. Thankfully, adults can still take advantage of the sites in nearby Macau but at a fraction of the cost.

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #21-#30

21) lima, peru.

Average Cost: $55.35/day

As the capital of Peru, Lima is the nation’s largest city. Hotel prices in Lima rank inside the top 40. However, food and beverage prices speak to every budget traveler’s heart – ranking 14th and 24th, respectively. While spending time in Lima’s well-preserved town center is enjoyable, taking a trip to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu is a must while in Peru.

22) Hurghada, Egypt

Average Cost: $55.79/day

Hurghada is the third Egyptian destination to make our top 25 cheapest places to travel. Located on the Red Sea, Hurghada’s sandy beaches occupy roughly 25 miles of coastline. Still, beaches and scuba diving isn’t all the city has to offer. This resort town is also known for its restaurants, nightclub scene, and even it’s old town known as El Dahar.

23) Beijing, China

Average Cost: $59.41/day

For 2022, Beijing moves up 9 spots to #23 on our list of cheap places to travel. Although the city is roughly 3,000 years old, the Chinese capital offers an excellent blend of ancient and modern sites. Inside Beijing, visiting the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square are a must. You should also be sure to make the 1.5 hour drive to the Great Wall of China while you’re there. Don’t miss it.

24) Cancun, Mexico

Average Cost: $59.76/day

Warm weather? Check. Beautiful sandy beaches? Check. Fantastic nightlife? Cancun has it all. Even better, it is one of the cheapest places to travel in North America. While you can find super-cheap hotels, if you want to stay in the hotel zone along the beach (and you definitely do), you’ll end up paying significantly more. Still, that’s right in line with most hotels throughout North America and Europe. Meals here still rank #45 overall, and prices for an adult beverage rank just outside the top 25 of all the destinations listed here. So, if you’re looking for cheap beach vacations, Cancun should be near the top of your list.

>>Related:  Cancun Travel Guide

25) Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Average Cost: $60.43/day

Mecca is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and is Islam’s holiest site. Millions of muslims descend upon the city each year during the Hajj pilgrimage, making their way to the Kaaba – the most sacred shrine in all of Islam. Be aware that only muslims are allowed to enter this sacred city. Non-muslims could be fined or deported for trying to pass through.

26) Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Average Cost: $61.66/day

Located south of Cancun on the Yucatan Peninsula, Playa del Carmen is the crown jewel of Mexico’s Riviera Maya region. Famous for its incredible sandy beaches and thriving coral reefs, this exciting city is more than a simple beach town. Lively 5th Avenue and the city’s close proximity to several Mayan archeologial sites makes Playa del Carmen a great and cheap vacation destination for almost any type of traveler.

>>Related: Playa del Carmen Travel Guide

27) Osaka, Japan

Average Cost: $66.03/day

Osaka may be the 3rd largest city in Japan, but it makes the biggest jump forward on this years’s list – ranking as the 27th cheapest city in the world for 2022. The city is most famous for its popular entertainment district, but it is also packed with museums, a stunning castle, and a family-friendly aquarium. Universal Studios Japan is also located here.

28) Busan, South Korea

Average Cost: $66.85/day

Busan is the second most populous city in South Korea, but don’t believe for a second that it takes a backseat to the capital city of Seoul. Here, you can wander through the bustling international market or go ice skating inside the world’s largest department store. Want to hit the beach? Busan has got that too. Haeundae Beach boasts nearly a mile of beautiful sandy beach while Gwangalli Beach offers a quieter respite from the city (and beautiful views of the evening lightshow at Gwangan Bridge).

29) Prague, Czech Republic

Average Cost: $66.93/day

When searching for affordable European holidays, be sure to put Prague near the top of your list. Why? For starters, it’s one of the cheapest place to travel in Europe, according to our methodology. Known for its cheap beer, affordable hotels, and reasonable meal prices, Prague is a great place to hang out. Sure, there is plenty to see – like visiting the Old Town Square and Prague Castle – but simply soaking up the atmosphere is the city’s main attraction.

30) Marrakech, Morocco

Average Cost: $67.57/day

Located in western Morocco, Marrakech is an important economic and cultural center in North Africa. A former imperial city, one of the most popular things to do here is to tour the palaces and their gardens. Also consider getting lost in the chaotic streets of Medina, the walled medieval city within the city which is designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located relatively close to both the mountains and the desert, nature and wildlife tours are also popular.

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #31-#40

31) kiev, ukraine.

Average Cost: $68.67/day

Home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kiev is more than just the capital of Ukraine. It is one of the most important cultural, educational, and industrial hubs in all of Eastern Europe. Packed with beautiful churches and a thriving street art scene, this city will delight art, history, and architecture lovers alike. Although political tensions in the region are currently running extremely high, be sure to put Kiev back on your travel bucket list once the tensions subside.

32) Seoul, South Korea

Average Cost: $69.46/day

South Korea’s largest city, Seoul, is widely considered to be one of the world’s top cultural and economic hubs. Blending ancient cultures and architecture with modern skyscrapers and entertainment, Seoul provides a unique mix of the past meeting the present. In addition to visiting the area’s numerous palaces and temples, be sure to check out the incredible views at nearby Bukhansan National Park.

33) Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Average Cost: $69.49/day

If beautiful beach vacations are more your thing, Punta Cana may be a great fit for you. As one of the cheapest places to travel in the Caribbean, Punta Cana is an attractive option for budget travelers from the United States and Canada. With spectacular sandy beaches, relatively affordable prices, and the incredible turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sean, this place is sure to help you get your relax on.

34) Sapporo, Japan

Average Cost: $69.97/day

Known across the world for its beer, the Japanese mountain city of Sapporo is also one of the world’s most affordable travel destinations. Skiers come for the magnificent slopes while ice scupltors from around the world transform the city into a winter wonderland during the Sapporo Snow Festival. Check out the city’s fantastic museums, catch a game at the Sapporo Dome, and sample a local dish called “kegani” (hairy crab) while you’re there!

35) Budapest, Hungary

Average Cost: $70.96/day

Central and Eastern Europe are full of cheap vacation ideas, and Hungary is one of the cheapest countries to visit. Budapest, the nation’s largest city and capital, is a delight for tourists – both for its sightseeing and the fact that it’s easy on their pocketbook. While food, hotel, and beverage prices are some of the cheapest you’ll find in all of Europe, taking a short cruise through town on the Danube River is something you’ll never forget.

36) Fukuoka, Japan

Average Cost: $72.22/day

Situated on the northern coast of Kyushu Island, Fukuoka, Japan is known for more than just its beaches. It is a popular destination for shopping, boasting the enormous Canal City Hakata shopping center. You’ll also want to explore Fukuoka’s historic ancient temples and check out the view from the Fukuoka Tower observation deck – Japan’s tallest seaside tower.

37) Taipei, Taiwan

Average Cost: $72.64/day

Taipei, Taiwan ranks as the 37th cheapest city in the world for 2022. With incredible night markets and tons of street food, Taipei is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. The city is also home to a host of temples and museums for tourists to enjoy. Elephant Mountain and Yangmingshan National Park make for great day trips from the city.

38) Moscow, Russia

Average Cost: $74.87/day

Speaking of cheap places to travel, in terms of value, Russia’s capital city is one of the best places to visit in Europe. While you’ll definitely want to spend time visiting the Red Square and the Kremlin, Moscow is also a major cultural hub. Wander around the city’s cadre of art and history museums before catching a performance from the Bolshoi Ballet.

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39) Macau, Macau

Average Cost: $75.74/day

Like its neighbor Hong Kong, Macau is an autonomous region of China located on the country’s south coast. As a former Portuguese territory, the area features a mix of cultural influences and tastes. The area is also home to several mega casinos, earning the nickname the “Las Vegas of China.” Unlike other areas known for their showy nature, food and hotel prices in Macau rank relatively affordable on our list. However, prices for adult beverages are more in line with what you’d find in Western Europe and North America.

40) Porto, Portugal

Average Cost: $77.20/day

Slipping barely inside the top 40 of our cheapest places to travel list is Porto, Portugal. Located on Portugal’s northwestern coast, this city is known for its majestic bridges, cobbled streets, and port wine. While prices for accommodations and meals are some of the best you’ll find in Western Europe, beverage prices rank as some of the cheapest in the world. Porto ranks a solid 31st overall in the beverage category. We’ll drink to that!

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #41-#50

41) tokyo, japan.

Average Cost: $77.56/day

Tokyo is another ultra-modern city that finds itself on our list. Although finding cheap places to travel in Asia is pretty easy, Tokyo ranks among the most expensive in the region. Still, Japan’s largest city is relatively affordable compared to many places in Europe and North America. With that said, Tokyo is one of the world’s hottest tourist destinations, ranking 15th overall on Euromonitor’s Top City Destinations Index for last year.

42) Johannesburg, South Africa

Average Cost: $78.27/day

Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and ranks as the #42 cheapest travel destination in the world for 2022. Beverage prices rank in the top 25%, but hotel and meal prices helped push the city further down the list (39th for accommodations, 56th in restaurant costs). Popular things to do in Johannesburg include visiting the Apartheid Museum, checking out the “Cradle of Humankind” UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoying nature safaris.

43) Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Average Cost: $79.06/day

Located in the UAE, Sharjah is a popular and affordable travel destination which sits on the shores of the Persian Gulf. Families love the fun-filled theme parks and aquarium. Architecture lovers and religious travelers enjoy the Al Noor Mosque and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. Of course, the bustling waterfront attracts travelers of all types.

44) Heraklion, Greece

Average Cost: $80.26/day

Located on the island of Crete, Heraklion is a popular resort area in Greece. Heraklion remains a relatively cheap vacation spot in Europe, coming in at #44 overall. While families may come to enjoy a beach vacation, they can also soak up some of the area’s remarkable museums and ancient ruins. Just a few minutes from the city, tourists will find the ancient archaeological site of Knossos, believed to be Europe’s oldest city.

45) Krakow, Poland

Average Cost: $80.66/day

Cracking the top half in two of our three categories, Krakow lands at #45 on our list of the cheapest places to travel in the world. The city is famous for its medieval town center, which is remarkably well preserved considering all of the political turmoil this country has faced throughout history. Wandering through the large Jewish quarter is also a must. Located within close proximity to Auschwitz-Birkenau, Krakow also makes a good home base for a journey there.

46) Athens, Greece

Average Cost: $82.07/day

In my opinion, a trip to Greece represents one of the best value vacations in all of Europe. Although some tell you to hit the highlights in Athens and leave quickly, I disagree. The birthplace of western culture, Athens is an incredibly unique city, filled with some of the most amazing historical and cultural sites you’ll find anywhere. Sure, you’ll want to head out into the Greek countryside, but the gritty, lively streets of Athens are something you should consider taking a few days to enjoy.

47) Cape Town, South Africa

Average Cost: $82.45/day

The second largest city in South Africa, Cape Town is another newcomer to our list. This naturally beautiful seaside city is filled with fun things to do. It also serves as the home of South Africa’s parliament. Be sure to check out the various beaches, check out the Bo-kaap neighborhood, and ride the cable car to the top of Table Mountain for some breathtaking views.

48) Kyoto, Japan

Average Cost: $85.81/day

Once the capital of the Japanese empire, Kyoto is now one of Japan’s best places to travel. Famous for its traditional wooden houses, buddhist temples, and imperial palaces, the city also provides beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. While you’re there, be sure to enjoy a kaiseki dinner and a geisha show.

4 9) Guangzhou, China

Average Cost: $86.94/day

Located just to the northwest of Hong Kong and Shenzhen is Guangzhou, China. Like its neighbors, Guangzhou is a popular destination for tourists of all stripes. Adventure seekers may wish to go bungee jumping at nearby Baiyun Mountain. The Chimelong Safari Park and Chimelong International Circus tend to be popular for families traveling with children.

50) Medina, Saudi Arabia

Average Cost: $86.98/day

Located in western Saudi Arabia, Medina is an extremely popular destination for pilgrims. Inside the city, you’ll find the Al-Masjid an-Nabawi mosque. The mosque was originally built by the Prophet Muhammad in the year 622 and is considered to be the second-holiest site in Islam – containing the tomb of the the Prophet Muhammad himself. Medina is also home to another important mosque, Masjid al-Qiblatain. After the Prophet Muhammad received the revelation to change the direction of prayer, it was here that Muslims first began to pray toward Mecca instead of Jerusalem.

Cheapest Places to Travel 2022: Complete Results

Our methodology.

Let me assure you, we haven’t taken this project lightly.

To accurately measure the cost of each location, we’ve created a methodology which ensures that each destination stands on relatively equal footing. So, as we’ve done in the past, we have focused our efforts on factors that were universal, controllable, and useful.

First, we had to decide which destinations to include. Although Brookings, South Dakota may be a cheap place to travel for fellow South Dakotans, how many people actually visit Brookings each year? How useful is that to the vast majority of people?

For that reason, we have limited inclusion on our list to the cities which appear on Euromonitor International’s  Top 100 City Destinations Index  for 2021. The index ranks international travel destinations accross 6 key metrics – including Economic & Business Performance, Tourism Perfomrance, Tourism Policy & Attractiveness, Tourism Infrastructure, Health and Safety, and Sustainability. It also replaces Euromonitor’s now defunct Top 100 City Destinations Report – which is what we have used in the past to determine which cities make our list.

Since everybody’s travel style is different, we also must determine which factors best represent the overall cost of a destination. Average food and beverage costs are an important factor in our rankings, as we feel they are indicative of an area’s overall affordability.

Using numbers from  Numbeo , our food and entertainment numbers are based on the average cost of a meal at an “inexpensive” restaurant (3 per day) and the average cost of a domestic beer (3 per day). We have added an extra 10% to both, just to be on the safe side.

Prices for accommodations are also a major factor in our rankings. Clearly, one’s travel preferences will affect the amount it costs to stay in a certain area. For instance,  overwater bungalows , no matter how affordable, are going to cost a heck of a lot more than a standard hotel room.

Additionally, because rates change based on occupancy and the time of year in which they are booked, it is important to find a consistent way in which to apply our methodology. Therefore, our numbers are based on a midweek stay during the “low season” in each destination – averaging the 5 cheapest 3-star options for accommodations during that time. We have also ensured that the accommodations are located within the most popular tourist areas of the city.

To help you put this all together, here’s a quick breakdown of our methodology:

• Must be listed in Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index
• 3-star+ accommodations
• “Low season” pricing
• Located within popular tourist area
• Midweek stay
• Double occupancy
• Plus 10% for accuracy

Known Issues with Our Methodology

This isn’t to say that our methodology is perfect.

As with any study, our rankings are only as accurate as the data we’ve collected. While we’re confident in our sources, there is certainly some room for error. However, the results tend to correlate with what most experienced travelers would expect.

Of course, there are some really cheap places to travel that didn’t make the list because – well – they don’t qualify. For instance, Sofia, Bulgaria and Bucharest, Romania are widely considered some of Europe’s most affordable travel destinations. However, they didn’t meet the standard of the number of visitors needed to make our report.

This year, in particular, sees a big change in some of the destinations that made our list. In the past, we have used Euromonitor’s Top 100 City Destinations Report to determine the 100 cities on our list. This report ranked cities based entirely on international arrivals. With Euromonitor replacing the report with their Top 100 City Destinations Index (which ranks destinations on a number of factors outside of simply arrivals), this has caused a reshuffling of which cities we’ve included on our list.

For example, since the last time we published our list, 12 of the cheapest 20 cities are no longer included because they did not qualify for Euromonitor’s Top 100 City Destinations Index. That is a huge shift.

Although this may seem unfair, many of these cities represented a redundancy of cheap tourist areas. The 12 cities no longer listed are located in just 5 different countires. All but one of those countries is still represented by other cities in the top 20 cheapest places to visit.

Additionally, the new index allows for a broader representation of cheap travel destinations across the world. In our last survey, all of the top 20 cheapest places to visit were located in Asia and Oceania. While these areas still dominate the top spots, at least one city from every region of the world now cracks the top 20.

Moving on, one of the biggest expenses for any vacation is transportation. This is an extremely difficult metric to gauge. Flight costs vary wildly depending on where you’re flying to and from. Because we couldn’t find a consistent way to apply airfares across the globe, we decided to leave them out entirely.

For that reason, some of the cheapest places to travel may not be as affordable for  you . For example, flights from New York City to most Asian destinations can cost 2 or 3 times as much as flights to Europe. Keep this in mind before settling on a destination for your next vacation.

Since it’s nearly impossible to predict transportation costs from around the world, our list represents a metric of what you can expect to spend once you arrive.

Final Thoughts on Cheap Travel Destinations

If you’re a  veteran of budget travel , the results of our study shouldn’t shock you.

As expected, the cheapest countries in the world are found mostly in Asia. However, while travel destinations throught Asia dominate the top spots on our list, our new criteria has opened the door for places around the world to climb in our rankings.

Several affordable destinations in South America, Africa, and the Middle East now grace our list. And, although travel destinations in Europe and North America are generally the most expensive places to visit, our updated criteria even allows a few cities from these regions to sneak into our top 20.

Keep in mind, however, that comparing the best travel destinations by price is extremely relative. When searching for cheap places to travel, numerous factors come into play – including your proximity to the destination and the time of year you plan to visit. Seemingly cheap vacation spots can quickly turn into budget busters if you don’t account for every expense.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of the cheapst places to travel in the world. Thanks so much for reading and happy traveling!

Are any of these cheap travel destinations in your budget travel plans? Let us know in the comments below!

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Greg Johnson is the co-founder of Club Thrifty and an expert in personal finance, family travel, and credit card rewards. His work and commentary have been featured in publications like Newsweek , Kiplinger’s Personal Finance , Dough Roller , CreditCardReviews.com , and more. He also works as a freelance personal finance editor at Bankrate.com.

Greg travels the world for about 20 weeks each year and has visited over 40 countries. He holds two bachelor's degrees, is the co-author of the book Zero Down Your Debt , and owns his own independent travel agency. Learn more about Greg here.

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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will require a negative COVID-19 test for all travelers boarding international flights to the United States. The announcement was made on January 12 with the rule becoming effective on January 26, 2021. The expansion of testing requirements applies to both visitors and Americans traveling home. Travelers…

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22 Comments

This list is great for any budget traveler and it provides enough destinations for anyone looking to include new places on their bucket list. I’m glad to see that Romania is also included, especially because it’s one of the most affordable European travel destinations.

I love all of these destinations. I will include most of them in my travel plans. Please consider Montreal, Canada. It’s gorgeous and affordable, especially for US citizens. Also, Iceland is more and more popular. It has the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Finally, for non-US citizens, Habana Cuba it affordable, happy, and beautiful.

San Francisco is a really good place for fun where I stay for two days. I had a blast of fun at this most amazing and alluring destination and came back with a lot of pleasant memories. Truly your shared all these places are the best for travelling and you can comfortable stay with family and kids at reasonable prices.

San Francisco doesn’t qualify for cheap in any category..

What a great list you have here and the details are very informative. A trip to Europe seems everything but cheap, thanks for including some great destinations.

Great list! City travels are really cheaper than any other kind of travel. Thanks for posting this.

London, Italy and Thailand are definitely on my top 3 bucket list. Although Scotland wasn’t on this list, I heard their castles are great for sight seeing.

Will include some of these travel destinations in my travel list! Thanks for this.

Wow, awesome list of places! I can’t even decide which I should visit first.

I know, right?!? Thanks for reading!

Thanks for this great post, i enjoyed reading it. But: unbelievable that u left out the whole philippines!

Thanks for reading! Yes, the Philippines is certainly a cheap place to travel, but there isn’t a spot there that makes the top 100 most visited destinations in the world. So, it didn’t quite make the list 🙂

Hey, thank you so much bud! this is what I exactly needed couldn’t figure it out at first where should I trip this year after reading the whole blog now I have some in my bucket list, keep it up thanks for sharing such wonderful article across the internet.

Hi Greg, I have been to 5 of your top 10 but nothing is as cheap as GOA, India. I have visited GOA 8 times and the affordability is unbelievable. Would suggest these places in Goa if you are looking out for specifics. Trust me these places have wonderful food and most affordable accommodation, restaurants and beer. Listed down a few for your reference: calangute, baga, condolem, Palolem, Anjuna, colva and vegator.

I’ve already checked out up to ten items from this list. Lviv is probably the most memorable. This year I’m travelling to Porto with my girls. We’re really excited about cheap beverages. Thanks for the article, makes it easier to choose my next 90 destinations.

Fantastic! Glad you enjoyed it and happy traveling!

This is a fine list of bucketlist destinations, but you lost me on the budget/cheap angle when you mentioned taking “a sunset cruise, and maybe try a helicopter ride over the active volcanoes” in Hawaii.

I’ll definitely be getting myself to India though. So many incredible places to explore there.

Hey Man! Where is Cox’s Bazar? It’s a beautiful and longest sea beach in the world. You should include it in your article.

Where is the Philippines? El nido, Coron, Port Barton, Cebu etc. Any of those destination can make the top 10 cheapest.

Hey !! Thanks ,its really informative. Just tripped over this and I love the info. Well done! I’m a “young” active 65 year old looking to start traveling alone to places more intriguing than Paris or Rome( which I love ,but…)

I have always had a penchant for travel and have visited a number of countries throughout my life. This year, I decided to take a trip to a country that I had never been to before- this has been the cheapest country where I have ever visited. After much deliberation, I opted for the Central African Republic (CAR). I researched the country extensively before deciding to make the trip, and found that there were a number of reasons why this was the perfect country for me. First and foremost, it is one of the least developed countries in the world, which means that there are a lot of opportunities for tourism. Second, it is a country with a rich historical heritage, which I was interested in learning more about. Third, it is a safe country, which is important to me as a traveler. Finally, it is a country with a large variety of landscapes, which I knew I would enjoy.

Awesome travel guide on the internet, I’m feeling more confidence after reading the article.

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The 30 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2024

01/01/2024 by Ashley Yap 88 Comments

Which countries in the world 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? The following are 30 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 the accommodation was slightly more expensive than most places in Southeast Asia at that time. Many of the amazing activities you can do in Laos are cheap. 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 a motorbike for cheap and venture off to the 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 cheaper for longer. However, if you have a bit more to spend, you can get a gorgeous room for closer to $35 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, $35/day

I probably had the healthiest and cheapest street food in Vietnam . Think a 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 a motorbike, especially in countries like Vietnam where the road 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 the Tuk Tuk drivers. There are some one-off expenses such as the 3-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 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 budget for your Thailand trip. Even in popular places like Chiang Mai and Pai , you can easily find basic dorms for less than $7. 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 delicious, 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 Accommodation: $5-$10 per night in a hostel 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 4 people SIM card with data: $7 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity

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 with a private boat. To save costs, stick with a region or two! There’s a lot to do and see , and spending more time in one place will only 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 the local transportation!

On the flip side, food and drinks are cheap throughout the country, not to mention absolutely delicious 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 Philippines’s 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 travel cost in the Philippines 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  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 Malaysia for the first time, a few people told me it wasn’t worth staying long. However, I ended up meeting lots of locals, more able to communicate and find more common ground with them than I had in Cambodia or Laos, and 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 so many interesting local neighborhoods and markets that are free to explore, and finally, the Malaysian cuisine is like no other – you can find food from just about any culture, and it’s so cheap and delicious – 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, 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 Internet are relatively cheap. One thing to note about transportation is that in some cases, taking a taxi / 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.

Disclaimer: 2022 saw a great amount of unrest in Sri Lanka. As of the publishing of this post, the country is still under a level 2 advisory (exercise increased caution) from the US State Department.

• Accommodation: $8-$15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $15-$20 per person for a private car and driver split between 4 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, $30/day ($15/day if trekking)

Nepal is a very cheap country to travel through, with most food, accommodation, and transport running at just a few dollars if you eat, sleep, and travel using local options. For food, while I never seem to get any stomach problems eating street food, street food in Nepal does not have the best reputation. You can get cheap and delicious home-cooked meals in local-run small cafes though. Be very mindful when you book your accommodation online, as big corporations have taken over local homestays and turned them into boutique hotels and resorts. 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 4 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. For less than $2, you can get a plate of fragrant rice with pork/chicken on top, a large deep-fried chicken chop, or a bowl of delicious vermicelli with oysters. Food in Taiwan is delicious and ridiculously cheap. If you are a foodie on a budget, you know where to go! In cities like Taipei and Tainan, you can register for their 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-level. Intercity traveling is either expensive with the High-Speed Rail (HSR), or time-consuming with slightly cheaper options. 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

11. India, $25/day

India is perhaps the cheapest country 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!

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 . Food is cheap and interesting, and so is getting around using the minibusses. Public transportation prices are fixed and are probably the cheapest aspect of traveling in Kyrgyzstan. As for accommodation, you can find hostels in major destinations and local homestays in more rural places for less than $10. If you are doing a multi-day hike like the Tian Shan Mountains , the tour price should include most things.

• 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 – 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. 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 food is hearty and delicious (a money-saving tip: Have your breakfast at the hostel, have a big hearty meal for lunch, and cook your own meal for dinner. It’s easy and affordable to get fresh produce from the local market, make sure your hostel has a kitchen!), and 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

14. 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, where one can easily spend months 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 1-month validity

15. 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 Greece 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 parts of Greece. 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 the free walking tours available, 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 4 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

16. Czech Republic, $40/day

As more and more tourists flock to the Czech Republic, 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 Cesky 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 3-day pass for $16.

Czech cuisine is very hearty and large in portion. 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 local 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 hikes up are awesome, and you can always admire the architecture from outside, and pick the most intriguing ones 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 1-month validity

17. Poland, $44/day

If you are a fan of heritage sites, Poland has 14 to offer. A country rich with culture and history, it’s a shame that Poland is often overlooked by tourists. It costs an average of $5 to enter museums and historical sites, which is fairly affordable by European standards. Food is delicious and has a bit more variety than its neighboring countries, though it’s still heavy on the calories. The trains are a bit dated but cost very little.

Poland is 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. Make sure to eat at a “milk bar”, an affordable yet delicious option that’s popular with locals. 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 1-month validity

18. Croatia, $47/day

If you like turquoise waters, sunshine, and parties, look no further than Croatia to plan your next budget trip. There are thousands of islands surrounding its mainland, excellent weather from May – October, and beach and yacht parties year-round. The essential expenses including accommodation, transportation and food all come with a reasonable price tag. There is also beautiful architecture to marvel at, interesting sights such as the Museum of Broken Relationships , as well as cute small towns to explore.

To travel in Croatia on a budget, you need a similar approach to Greece – travel in the shoulder season. July & August are the country’s busiest months, so avoid them if possible. Also, keep your island hopping to a group of islands 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 4 people , or $10-$15 for a ferry ride
• SIM card with data : $8 for 2GB with 30-day validity

19. 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, the country has 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 the long-distance buses are expensive, if you plan well and take the 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

20. Lithuania, $44/day

Lithuania is a tiny 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 to travel in! If you enjoy partying, the nightlife scene in Vilnius is vibrant and fun, and the 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 city, 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 small 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 in Latvia, perfect for canoeing lovers. 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 local Christmas markets. 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). 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 the country does not have the best reputation as far as safety goes , most violence takes place in certain areas, and Mexico is a big country with plenty of safe places to explore . Now the good news? It’s easy to travel in Mexico on a budget. For less than $20, you will be able to explore at least 5 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 split between 4 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 as the next Costa Rica , and we all know what that means. For now, the country remains affordable, fun, and interesting so go before the prices go up and before 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 all day on. Food is cheap and delicious albeit repetitive. There are hostels all over the country so you don’t have to worry about finding cheap accommodation. One thing to note is that there is unfortunately safety concerns in the country, 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 to Guatemala is no complete without seeing the beautiful Lake Atitlán , but that’s not all – the country is covered in lush jungles, volcanos, and ruins, perfect 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 delicious and cheap 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, which are converted school buses from North America, and 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 the buses down, and pay the collector money. Watch how much the locals are paying and pay 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 Bogota, 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 diving sites and gorgeous beaches. With accommodation, transportation and food being so affordable, you will have room for some occasional splurges – 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, 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. If you had two other people along, take it down to one third 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 4 people
• SIM card with data : $35 for 1GB with a 30-day validity

A complete guide to Utah

A complete guide to Arizona

29. South Africa, $42/day

If you are traveling on USD or Euro, the exchange rate alone will do you a big favor. At this time of writing, 1 South African Rand is equal to 6 cents US. Any hostels/guesthouse/tourist accommodation in South Africa is called a “backpackers”, and they are typically in beautiful settings and each has a unique personality, not to mention 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 cooking your own breakfast and the occasional dinner, you can save a lot of money.

Unfortunately, public transportation outside of Johannesburg and Cape Town can be pretty limited. While there are a few private companies and trains that all provide transportation around the country, the best (and possibly) cheapest way to get around the country is to rent a car and share with 3 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 4 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 availability 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 campsites for about $8 – $10 per night. Camping at the 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 4 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

How Low Can You Go?

The suggested budget above includes basic accommodation, transportation, and 3 meals with a mix of simple breakfasts, hearty lunches, and light dinners, as well as Internet and 1 paid activity for the day. You will need to add on the other costs like shopping, alcohol, 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 the local 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 that you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!

The Only Packing List You’ll Ever Need (for the Entire World)

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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.

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!

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Best cheap winter vacations.

Some destinations see prices skyrocket in winter, but U.S. News ensures that your dollars will stretch further with this list of the best cheap winter vacations. Our editors considered user votes in addition to factors like the cost and quality of accommodations, dining and attractions to narrow down the destinations with the best value – and weather – for a winter getaway. Help us determine next year's list by voting for your favorite winter destinations below.

Turks & Caicos

Quebec city, san miguel de allende, puerto rico, big sky, mt.

Hotels in Mérida, the capital of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, can cost as little as $50 per night in winter, so you'll have plenty of cash to indulge in the city's offerings. Dive far back into Mérida's history while visiting El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida and the nearby Dzibilchaltún ruins, both of which explore local Mayan history for inexpensive admission fees. Meanwhile, in the heart of the city, you'll find influence from Spanish conquerors at the free Catedral de Mérida. Don't forget to explore Mérida's food scene at one of its markets or restaurants.

The Turks and Caicos Islands are a popular vacation spot for a reason: Here, you'll find incomparable scenery, glistening white sand and turquoise water. When you're done basking on the beach, grab some snorkeling gear and head to the water; you'll discover an impressive barrier reef by these Caribbean islands that is ripe for exploration. To save money on your island getaway, skip staying at a luxury resort and instead reserve a vacation rental or a room at a smaller hotel. Save even more money by avoiding accommodations on Providenciales, where the country's priciest lodging options are located.

It's not hard to plan a cheap tropical vacation in Jamaica. Save money while still enjoying Jamaica's warm winter weather in the low 80s by staying at an all-inclusive resort that includes extras like water sports equipment and private beach access in their base fare. You can find even more deals on accommodations and airfare if you book a vacation package or time your trip for early winter before the snowbirds arrive. With the money you save, book a tour to see one of Jamaica's natural wonders, like Dunn's River Falls or the Blue Hole.

Located on the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum's status as a major tourist destination comes as no surprise. Its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches and fascinating Mayan ruins draw travelers in droves, and winter's pleasant temperatures in the low 80s only add to its appeal. But while this tropical paradise offers plenty of room for luxury, it's possible to stick to a budget. Beyond the favorable exchange rate ($1 equals about $18 Mexican pesos), you can also save money by dining in Tulum Pueblo and choosing accommodations away from the beach.

Those in search of a well-rounded winter getaway should travel to Taos, New Mexico. History buffs can spend their trip strolling through Taos Plaza or learning about Taos Pueblo, an adobe village that has been inhabited by the Taos Indian Tribe for more than 1,000 years. Meanwhile, skiers can zip down the slopes at Taos Ski Valley (save money by looking for winter packages and purchasing your tickets before the peak ski season begins). When travelers need to relax, they can head to Manby or Black Rock hot springs to rejuvenate in the naturally warm (and free) waters.

The cobblestone streets will probably be covered in snow, but that shouldn't discourage you from exploring neighborhoods like Old Québec and Quartier Petit Champlain. The Canadian city celebrates its way through the frigid temperatures with free or low-cost events and festivals that last from Christmastime to Carnaval in February. When you need to warm up, explore the splendid interiors of Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral and the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine, both of which offer free entry.

It's no secret that Lake Tahoe is a great wintertime travel destination. This lake that straddles the California-Nevada border is known for its premier cold-weather activities, including cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating and snowshoeing. To save some coin during your trip, plan on booking your getaway early and staying at one of the lake's ski resorts. Though resorts can get pricey at times, they often offer vacation packages or multinight discounts to help you cut costs.

A winter vacation in San Miguel de Allende should include time spent exploring the city's markets and cultural institutions, including the Fábrica La Aurora, a textile mill-turned-art-museum and shop. Both El Jardín, the city's main plaza, and Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, an ornate church, are additional must-see sights that won't cost you a dime to enjoy. You'll also want to sample the vast foodie scene: This Mexican city offers everything from fine dining to cheap (but delectable) food truck meals.

Though the Southwest brings to mind deserts with scorching temperatures, Santa Fe, New Mexico, conveniently sits close to several different ski resorts. Not only can you schuss the slopes in 40-degree weather, but you can also spend less on lift tickets here than you would in more popular ski destinations. Back in Santa Fe, you can admire art at Canyon Road's 80-plus galleries or stroll through Santa Fe Plaza without spending a cent. If you time your visit for late February, you can also score deals on dining out during Santa Fe's Restaurant Week.

If all you dream about for a winter vacation is escaping to a tranquil Mexican beach, Cozumel is your answer. Turquoise water, great snorkeling and warm weather (think: average highs sit in the mid-80s) attract travelers in droves. For lodging, skip the expensive resorts and opt for a bed-and-breakfast or a vacation rental. Use the money you save on accommodations to visit Cozumel's parks, including Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park and Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, which both charge modest entrance fees.

Puerto Rico's warm winter temperatures (highs consistently sit in the low 80s) and robust calendar of free festivals and events make it an appealing choice for a cheap winter getaway. Although the winter months bring an influx of tourists to this U.S. territory's sandy shores – raising hotel and airfare prices – it is still possible to achieve an affordable vacation as long as you plan far enough in advance. Luckily, many of Puerto Rico's must-do activities are free, including hiking through El Yunque National Forest and exploring historic Old San Juan.

Boasting more than 5,800 acres of skiable terrain, Big Sky, Montana, is a winter sports enthusiast's dream. Here, you'll find a healthy mix of slopes for everyone from beginners to experts. While lift tickets will take up a hefty portion of your budget, if you plan early and book in advance, you can score deals on both your accommodations and lift tickets at Big Sky Resort. For even more savings on lift tickets, which cost more when demand is high, visit on weekdays in early December and opt to ski later in the day to cut down on fees for the popular Lone Peak Tram.

Winter in Banff is characterized by snow and skiing. This Canadian destination enjoys excellent skiing conditions with exceptional scenery. What's more, lodging and lift ticket prices are a bargain compared to other ski spots in North America, but you'll need to book them a few months in advance to ensure availability and the best prices. With the money you've saved, you can treat yourself to a sleigh ride or an extra après-ski drink. Though you'll need to purchase a National Park Pass to stay in Banff; this fee also covers access to off-slope wonders like Lake Louise, where you can skate and admire ice sculptures.

Thanks to its location in the Caribbean Sea, Martinique offers ideal weather for travelers seeking a warm respite from chilly winters. Temperatures sit in the 80s throughout winter, so you can spend your days soaking up some sun on Les Salines and Diamant (Diamond) beaches. If you plan on staying in Fort-de-France, the country's capital, book early to ensure you snag affordable accommodations during Martinique's peak tourist season. For additional savings, book a hotel farther inland.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee's wintertime highs sit in the upper 40s and low 50s, meaning you can still take advantage of the town's most popular attraction: Great Smoky Mountains National Park. After entering the national park, which charges a $5 daily parking fee, hike a section of the famous Appalachian Trail to Charlies Bunion, an outcrop with stunning mountain vistas, or trek the Rainbow Falls Trail for a chance to see the path's namesake falls frozen over. When you need to warm up, head back to town to sample the local moonshine at Sugarlands Distilling Company or Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine's "The Holler" distillery for a small fee.

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Sanibel Island

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23 Affordable Beach Vacations Around the World

From Florida to Greece, enjoy a budget-friendly beach vacation at these destinations around the world.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Nothing says summer like a beach vacation. A trip to the coast is the classic family outing, the ultimate romantic getaway or girls' trip, and even great for a solo adventure. Whether you want to relax with your toes in the sand or try surfing, there's a perfect beach destination for you — and one that won't cost you too much.

Camping opportunities and free activities mean most beach trips can be made affordable. Some oceanfront destinations are even easier on your wallet because they're set in quiet or under-the-radar locales with lower hotel rates. Here, we've put together a list of affordable beaches you can visit around the world without breaking your budget.

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida

Sure, Miami and Palm Beach are popular Florida getaways, but this lesser-known beach town is far more affordable. It's virtually hidden on Florida's east coast, tucked between Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach, offering the classic white sand and aquamarine water Florida is famous for. Plus, the charming seaside community that backs it will make you feel like you've stepped back in time. The beach pavilion decorated with rainbow-colored umbrellas and surrounded by mid-century modern buildings gives off '50s vibes.

Free and inexpensive things to do include strolling through oceanfront Anglin's Square, which is filled with cafes, bars, restaurants, and gelato shops. Swing by Anglin's Beach Cafe for a fried shrimp basket with an ocean view, and then grab a scoop of mint chocolate chip from Kilwins before heading back to the beach. There’s a range of affordable accommodations in the area, from boutique hotels to beachside resorts. 

Coronado, Panama

Cesar Aleman/Getty Images

If you're looking for a tropical beach vacation, Panama tends to be one of the more affordable places to go. Visit during the offseason for serious deals on flights and hotels. About an hour and a half's drive from Panama City, the beach in Coronado is uncrowded, has gentle water perfect for swimming, and is known for its beautiful salt-and-pepper sand.

The town of Coronado, popular among American nomads and expats, has no shortage of affordable places to eat and stay. If you want to get away from people, head just outside of Coronado to the town of Nueva Gorgona, whose turquoise waters are great for swimming, surfing, and floating the day away.  When you want a break from the sun, grab a cold one from the Sandbar Gastropub or go for a walk under the canopy of the Coronado Dry Forest.

Sayulita, Mexico

Swap Cabo and Cancun for the beach town of Sayulita, a cheaper (and more relaxed) destination. Situated on the west coast of Mexico near Puerto Vallarta, this town is famous for its surfing. But you don't have to be on a board to enjoy it — instead, spend your time on one of the beautiful beaches, like Sayulita Beach, Playa De Los Muertos, and Carricitos, or take a a 20-minute drive to La Lancha.

There are also tons of shops to explore in Sayulita, from surfing outfitters to bohemian-chic clothing stores and local galleries like Evoke the Spirit . Check into the Casablanca Sayulita Hotel , where you'll enjoy the rates as much as the views.   

Islamorada, Florida

This village in the Florida Keys has plenty to offer visitors, and opting for a trip here instead of the more popular islands like Key West will save you some cash while still providing a beachy escape.

Explore the 11-acre Indian Key Historic State Park , where the remains of a shipwreck that dates back to the 1800s are on display. Also check out Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park , which has an exposed coral reef and nature trails that snake through mangrove forests.

The Cheeca Lodge & Spa provides luxury touches without the high prices. Spend some of the money you’ve saved on mojitos at the beachfront tiki bar.  

Gold Beach, Oregon

Larry Wing/Getty Images

This town has secluded beaches, tide pools, and ocean kayaking opportunities, and the nearby Rogue River offers jet-boat tours and fishing. Try visiting between March and May, when you can catch a glimpse of northbound pods of migrating gray whales as they pass through. Lodgings include everything from quaint bed-and-breakfasts like Endicott Gardens to the remote Tu Tu' Tun Lodge on the wooded banks of the Rogue. 

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

This lively beach town has great activities for families and a vibrant downtown to explore. In addition to its championship courses, the city is a mini-golf capital, with more than 50 miniature golf courses in the area. Hunt for seashells and explore the pier at Myrtle Beach State Park , then go shopping at Hudson's Surfside Flea Market or Market Common . You’ll have your pick of places to stay, from high-rise condos with kitchens to hotels with their own water parks.

Corfu, Greece

While Greece can be a very expensive place to visit, this small town is relatively affordable compared to the most popular islands. During your stay, explore the alleyways and winding streets in Corfu's Old Town, which is home to museums like the Archaeological Museum and Casa Parlante , a mansion that's been made into a museum with decorations dating back to the 1800s. Also visit Achilleion , a historic palace that's been converted into a museum with a giant painting of Achilles pulling Hector from his chariot.

When in Corfu, you can stay in five-star properties for a budget-friendly price. We recommend The Olivar Suites and Domes of Corfu for your beach week.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Just a half-hour drive from historic downtown Savannah, Tybee Island has a three-mile-long beach with distinct areas. The North Beach is a great place to watch birds and ships; Mid Beach is the spot to hunt for seashells and shark teeth; South Beach is the busiest area with volleyball and dolphin-spotting; and Back River is a more secluded area with a fishing pier and great views of Little Tybee, the nature preserve just south of the barrier island. There are also a lot of free parks, playgrounds, and hiking trails.

Tybee has a range of vacation rentals to choose from, and, of course, one of the perks of a beach destination is the stellar camping opportunities.   

Patong, Thailand

Adisorn Fineday Chutikunakorn/Getty Images

Thailand is an ideal budget-conscious getaway, and this beach on the lively island of Phuket is a great destination for travelers looking for a dose of partying on vacation. Its curving strip of sand is bustling with cafes, restaurants, and bars.

Relax on the white sand and swim in the crystal-blue water by day, then after dark, explore the city's wild nightlife scene. Catch a Thai Boxing event or try one of the many cabarets off Bangla Road.

Walk around one of the two nearby sprawling shopping malls, Central Patong and Jungceylon . You can also try mango rice and coconut ice cream at Banzaan Fresh Market or pick up some souvenirs at Malin Plaza.  

Book a room at the affordable Burasari or the Amari Phuket for gorgeous views. 

Palawan Island, Philippines

Even though a flight to the Philippines can be pricey, hotels, food, and activities are usually affordable once you arrive. On this beautiful island, you could go parasailing, snorkel in Bacuit Bay, go on a jungle walk, or book a cave spelunking tour with Ugong Rock Adventures . Travel a bit north to visit the beautiful beaches of El Nido. Along the way, Honda Bay is a great jumping-off point for island hopping.

Flower Island Resort completes your private-island fantasy with tropical trappings and beachside villas for a nightly rate that’s less than you’d probably spend on dinner in bigger cities.  

Virginia Beach, Virginia

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Located at the juncture of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia Beach is a charming seaside town with a thriving creative scene and delicious coastal fare. There are miles of golden beaches for sunbathing, beachcombing, and swimming. Explore local craft breweries on the Virginia Beach Beer Trail , or order a charcuterie board on the terrace at Terrapin Restaurant . And don't miss the epic free fireworks show on the Fourth of July.

There are several elegant lodging options in Virginia Beach, but the Barclay Cottage Bed-and-Breakfast is an affordable, adults-only respite right around the corner from the beach.  

Cambria, California

This classically Californian beach town is an affordable alternative to the beaches of Los Angeles and San Diego. The biggest attraction may be Moonstone Beach , known for its tide pools, boardwalk, and, yes, having moonstones and jade.  

Stop by the Boni’s Tacos food truck on a weekend for its famous tacos al pastor, or head to Moonstone Beach Bar and Grill for an Alaskan cod sandwich and glass of local wine. Grab a midday pick-me-up from Cambria Coffee Roasting Company and explore the town’s boutiques, art galleries, and the Coastal Discovery Center on San Simeon Bay. You can also take a short drive to tour Hearst Castle .

The budget-friendly Cambria Pines Lodge sits on 25 acres of world-class gardens and provides access to an on-site day spa, restaurant, and lounge.  

South Haven, Michigan

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This West Michigan town has seven quintessential Lake Michigan beaches with wide, flat shorelines and beach grass. The historic, bright-red South Pierhead Light stands at the west end of the South Pier, at the mouth of the Black River. When you’re not at the beach, explore the Michigan Maritime Museum , which also offers a range of boat rides from sunset sailing tours to cruises in a Disney-famous lifeboat. In August, South Haven hosts its National Blueberry Festival , which includes a parade, live entertainment, and pie-eating contests.  

Book a thrifty room at charming local establishments like the Historic Hotel Nichols or the Yelton Manor Boutique Hotel Bed-and-Breakfast .  

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

A two-and-a-half-hour flight from Miami, Puerto Rico makes for a great, affordable Caribbean getaway. With cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, San Juan is the island’s charming capital. There's a wide selection of lodging and delicious restaurants here, as well as beaches, nightclubs, and historic sites.

Spend the day relaxing on a palm-lined, white-sand beach, like El Escambrón, where swimming and snorkeling are a must. Then walk around Old San Juan’s historic landmarks like the oceanfront fortresses at the San Juan National Historic Site .  

Penang, Malaysia

This area on Malaysia’s northwest coast is home to gorgeous beaches, jungles, farmland, and fishing villages. On Penang Island, the capital city of George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial architecture, temples, and museums (many of which are free to visit). Beaches like Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah have blue-green water and golden shorelines. They’re popular for swimming, water sports, and sunset watching.  

When you're ready for a break from the beach, head into the rainforest for a ride on the world’s longest waterslide at Escape Penang . The 3,645-foot slide sends visitors down a 230-foot slope through the lush canopies. Visit the Kek Lok Si Buddhist Temple or the Penang State Museum and Art Gallery in George Town for history and culture. Or, embrace the gorgeous local flora at the Penang Botanic Gardens and the Tropical Spice Garden .

Stay at the beachfront Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang for access to Batu Ferringhi and chic, affordable rooms.  

St. Paul's Bay, Malta

This quiet fishing village on Malta’s northern coast is a great place to get away from the crowds for a good price. The beaches in Malta are exactly what you’d expect from the Mediterranean. White sand, bright blue water, and rocky outcroppings greet you on the shore. You can take a boat ride from St. Paul’s Bay over to Comino’s famous Blue Lagoon. If you head here toward the end of July, you'll experience a traditional Maltese  festa  (a village feast) in honor of Our Lady of Sorrows, which includes processions and fireworks. St. Paul’s Bay is also where you’ll find the Malta National Aquarium .

Accommodations will be both comfortable and affordable, from the DoubleTree by Hilton Malta to the bay-front Gillieru Harbour Hotel .   

Cape May, New Jersey

Another quintessential summer haunt, the Jersey Shore is more than what you’ve seen on TV. The seaside resort city of Cape May has Victorian houses and historic landmarks. The beach’s strip of soft sand is bookended by the deep blue of the Atlantic and a scenic promenade for strolling. While you’re in town, stop by the Cape May Lighthouse and shop the boutiques at Washington Street Mall . 

The historic Congress Hall is a glamorous beachfront icon with an umbrella-lined pool, wide lawn, and charming rooms. Grab a table at the hotel’s Blue Pig Tavern for crab cakes and deviled eggs. 

Essaouira, Morocco

Escape the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh for the resort atmosphere of Essaouira a few hours away on the coast. This long, gold-sand beach is perfect for land and water sports alike. It's a surfing hot spot and popular for riding horses and camels.

Not far from the beach is the UNESCO-recognized Essaouira Medina, a calmer iteration of Marrakesh's market. Meander through the alleys packed with stalls selling spices, slippers, and teas. The Gnaoua World Music Festival is a major draw that takes place annually at the end of June and celebrates the culture of the Gnaoua people. Walk by the fishing boats in the harbor before heading to dinner, where you’ll be served some of the freshest fish and seafood you’ll probably ever have.  

The area is known for its traditional houses that have been converted into small hotels, like the popular and affordable Riad Emotion and Riad Baoussala .

Old Orchard Beach, Maine

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This Maine destination is a family-friendly respite. The beach itself has golden sand, aquamarine water, a pier, and is backed by a classic amusement park from 1902. Hit the Ferris wheel at Palace Playland to get sweeping views of Saco Bay, or just swim, sunbathe, and watch the sunset along the shore. After dark, the pier comes alive with music, dancing, and drinking, plus weekly fireworks in the summer.

No trip to Maine is complete without a lobster roll or two. Grab a seat on the deck at The Shack or snag a box of hot, crinkle-cut perfection from longtime local favorite, Pier French Fries .  

You’ll find quaint, no-frills accommodations in town, like Alouette Beach Resort . If you want to stretch your budget a bit for a more boutique experience, you might try The Lincoln Hotel in nearby Biddeford . 

Willemstad, Curaçao

Daniel Slim/AFP/Getty

Curaçao makes for a great Caribbean getaway as it’s outside the hurricane zone, so summer is usually bright and beautiful. The capital city of Willemstad is known for its candy-colored, colonial buildings. At the palm-dotted, white-sand beach, dip into the calm, clear water for world-class swimming and snorkeling.  

Willemstad has a number of interesting attractions and architectural marvels to explore. Spend time walking around the pastel buildings in the old town center, marveling at the ruins of the faded mansions of the Pietermaai neighborhood, and take a day trip to Klein (aka “little”) Curaçao, a deserted island with an old lighthouse, shipwrecks, and ancient stone buildings to explore.

Stop by a casual restaurant for affordable Dutch and Afro-Caribbean dishes. Check into the Avila Beach Hotel for access to two private beaches. 

Ocean City, Maryland

With cheap eats and carnival attractions, this classic summer vacation town is a place both you and your wallet will love. Ocean City Beach’s powdery sand gives way to a glittering surf full of swimmers. The picturesque boardwalk is lined with funnel cake and Maryland crab stands, plus it's home to the Jolly Roger Amusement Park . There are plenty of hotels, motels, and inns to choose from that will fit into your budget.

Westport, Washington

Visit this fishing village for whale watching, fresh seafood, and peaceful beaches. You can cast a line or surf in Half Moon Bay in Westport Light State Park , which is also home to the Grays Harbor Lighthouse. Spend some time getting to know local history and marine life at the Westport Maritime Museum and Westport Aquarium . 

Naturally, there are plenty of fishing charters that will take you out in search of salmon, lingcod, rockfish, and albacore. Westport is also known as a surfing mecca, so pack your board or pick one up when you get to town.

Accommodations like The Glenacres Inn and Loge Westport are economical and convenient.  

Orange Beach, Alabama

Courtesy of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism

The gorgeous Gulf of Mexico waters at Orange Beach provide endless opportunities for water sports enthusiasts who enjoy boating, jet skiing, kayaking, and sailing. When you’re not relaxing on the sugar sand or hiking the  Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail , look for dolphins or paddle the Back Bay Blueway. Hit The Wharf for shopping, Ferris wheel rides, and a show at the amphitheater.  

Stay at Perdido Beach Resort for beachfront rooms and access to multiple eateries when you need a quick bite before getting back to the shore.