Sometimes you catch a last minute travel deal and sometimes you don’t, but that doesn’t mean you want to travel any less. Even harnessing all the best budget travel and cheap flight tips out there, seeing the world can still seem so costly. But with these 10 destinations we promise you’ll be able to travel and dine and sleep like aristocracy (not kings or queens, let’s be realistic) on a limited budget and have an absolute blast.
Plus, a lot of these spots are severely underrated travel destinations in the first place, giving you total freedom to wander without an abundance of tourists getting in your way. It’s a win-win right? Totally.
We’re giving you some of the cheapest places to visit in the world as well as an average cost per day which includes food, transportation, and accommodation costs.
1. Sri Lanka
Average cost per day: 35USD – 10,522LKR
Of all the lush countries to visit in Asia, Sri Lanka seems to get the least amount of hype, but why? It’s got emerald-coloured jungles, whizzing train rides through fragrant tea plantations, Buddhist temples galore, and even a giant rock – which sounds strange, but is actually jaw-dropping. Not to mention, the locals are so welcoming, the food is fantastic, and the weather is fine.
Image source:Contiki
2. Romania
Average cost per day: 43USD – 193RON
If you want to have a budget-friendly vacation in Europe, Romania is where you should go. Romania may have never found its way onto your travel radar which is a big massive shame and you should really change that now. All gothic horror lovers better assemble here quickly because the old and beautifully creepy castles are a must see – so much so, that Robert Eggers and Netflix decided to film Nosferatu and Wednesday here.
3. Bolivia
Average cost per day: 22USD – 151BOB
Between the Andes mountains and the mirror-like salt flats (literally), the natural wonders of Bolivia are never ending. And you can see all of them on a whistle stop tour that will barely burn a hole in your pocket – it won’t even singe it. It’s one of the safest countries to visit in South America as well, so whether you’re adventuring alone or with a group of friends, you’ll be saving cash for more adventures down the line!
Image source:Matan Levanon / unsplash
4. Vietnam
Average cost per day: 30USD – 784,186VND
Ha Long Bay. Ha Giang Loop. Ho Chi Minh. What am I doing? Oh, just naming a few of the best places in Vietnam that you can visit for an extremely reasonable price! You’ll actually feel good about spending your money in Vietnam, and once you’re a few báhn mìs down, none of the costs will really matter anymore anyway. Let the sun shine on you and melt all your budget worries away.
5. South Africa
Average cost per day: 45USD – 792ZAR
Africa as a whole makes for a really great budget-friendly holiday option, but if we had to narrow it down to one magical location you must visit, it’s South Africa. First of all, the locals are some of the kindest you’ll ever meet and you’ll be welcomed with open arms. But also, the beaches? The SAFARIS????!!! All for only a small amount of cash? These are unforgettable memories worth a million dollars and more.
Image source:Contiki
6. Mexico
Average cost per day: 40USD – 741MXN
While not necessarily the cheapest destination on planet Earth, as far as beach holidays go, you can get a lot of bang for your buck in Mexico. You can eat your fill of tacos and street food for a ridiculously low amount, and the sunshine and beach is always free. Day trips to Aztec and Inca ruins are well worth the small total you’re paying, and you can find decently priced accommodation – not that you’ll be staying inside much, anyway.
7. Thailand
Average cost per day: 25USD – 805THB
Pad thai for less than $2??? Yup! Amazing hostels with pools for an easy yet glamorous low-budget stay? Check. If you’re a traveller wanting a cheaper destination then Thailand is a no brainer. There’s a reason backpackers flock to this Southeast Asian paradise like it’s the holy grail. Nightlife, beaches, temples, island hopping – you can have 50 different kinds of adventures here and still not go broke.
Image source:Contiki
8. India
Average cost per day: 25USD – 2,159INR
Want to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World without breaking the bank? Devour creamy and spicy and rich curries? India is calling you babe, and you better pick up. The accommodation and transportation are all covered at low costs, giving you lots of spending money for road trips to Jaipur for a world of pink (literally) or Goa for the lazy beach life. Wildlife opportunities lie at every corner too – tiger and elephant sanctuaries, for example – making India an incredibly diverse and low-budget holiday location.
9. Morocco
Average cost per day: 40USD – 358MAD
Morocco’s deserts and vibrant cities are totally dreamy and totally achievable for holiday-goers of all price points! The local hospitality is unmatched and you’ll definitely have your mind blown by the views, the experiences, and the flavours. Not to mention, the culture of haggling in the souks makes your souvenir shopping cheaper already!
Image source:Contiki
10. Albania
Average cost per day: 30USD – 2,486ALL
This hidden gem is slowly rising in the ranks of perfect destinations to spend your Euro Summer; so you’ll want to head to Albania quickly before everyone catches on and the prices soar. It’s the perfect destination dupe for people drawn to the Maldives and the Caribbean but put off by the price tag. Turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and Dua Lipa’s favourite restaurant – for the sexiest low costs!
