Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on experiences. In fact, some of the world’s most culturally rich and visually stunning destinations are also surprisingly affordable. Whether you’re an adventurous backpacker or a budget-conscious traveler, these 10 countries offer incredible experiences at a fraction of the cost. Here’s a look at the top 10 cheapest countries to visit on a budget, where your money stretches further, letting you experience more for less.
1. Vietnam
Average Daily Budget: $25 – $40 USD
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Vietnam offers breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich history—all at an affordable price. From the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the serene landscapes of Ha Long Bay and rice terraces of Sapa, Vietnam is a budget traveler’s paradise. Street food like Pho and Banh Mi are both delicious and extremely cheap, and accommodations range from inexpensive hostels to boutique hotels.
Top Experiences:
- Exploring the limestone islands of Ha Long Bay
- Motorbiking the Hai Van Pass
- Visiting the ancient town of Hoi An
2. Cambodia
Average Daily Budget: $20 – $30 USD
Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR)
Famous for the majestic Angkor Wat temple complex, Cambodia is another wallet-friendly Southeast Asian destination. Not only are accommodations, food, and transportation cheap, but entrance fees to the temples are also reasonable, allowing budget travelers to experience one of the most awe-inspiring archaeological sites in the world without breaking the bank.
Top Experiences:
- Visiting the Angkor Wat temples at sunrise
- Exploring Phnom Penh’s historical museums
- Relaxing on the beaches of Sihanoukville
3. India (Countries to visit on a budget)
Average Daily Budget: $15 – $30 USD
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
India is one of the cheapest countries to visit on a budget yet renowned for its diversity, culture, and affordable travel options. Whether you’re trekking in the Himalayas, exploring the palaces of Rajasthan, or relaxing on Goa’s beaches, India offers something for every traveler. Meals are incredibly cheap, especially street food like samosas, dosas, and chai. Additionally, train travel is both affordable and an adventure in itself.
Top Experiences:
- Visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra
- Exploring Jaipur’s forts and palaces
- Hiking in the Indian Himalayas
4. Laos
Average Daily Budget: $20 – $35 USD
Currency: Lao Kip (LAK)
Laos offers a laid-back travel experience, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of other Southeast Asian countries. The country is known for its lush, mountainous landscapes and charming towns like Luang Prabang, where French colonial architecture blends with Buddhist temples. Laos is also a haven for budget travelers with affordable accommodations and activities like kayaking and tubing along the Nam Song River.
Top Experiences:
- Exploring the waterfalls near Luang Prabang
- Visiting the ancient city of Vientiane
- Tubing along the Nam Song River in Vang Vieng
5. Indonesia (Countries to visit on a budget)
Average Daily Budget: $20 – $40 USD
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is a country of immense diversity and affordability. While Bali is the most popular destination, lesser-known islands like Lombok, Java, and Sumatra are even cheaper and equally stunning. Indonesia offers budget-friendly accommodations, delicious street food, and affordable adventure activities like snorkeling, trekking, and surfing.
Top Experiences:
- Visiting Ubud’s rice terraces in Bali
- Climbing Mount Bromo in Java
- Diving in the Gili Islands
6. Nepal (Countries to visit on a budget)
Average Daily Budget: $15 – $25 USD
Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Nepal is a dream destination for trekkers, offering the majestic Himalayas, including Mount Everest, at very affordable rates. Whether you’re trekking the Annapurna Circuit or exploring the temples of Kathmandu, Nepal’s low cost of living makes it one of the cheapest places to visit. Even on a shoestring budget, you’ll find homestays, guesthouses, and local meals to be incredibly inexpensive.
Top Experiences:
- Trekking to Everest Base Camp
- Visiting Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha
- Exploring the temples of Kathmandu
7. Georgia
Average Daily Budget: $20 – $35 USD
Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL)
Georgia, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is quickly becoming a favorite among budget travelers. This country boasts stunning mountain landscapes, ancient churches, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re hiking in the Caucasus mountains or wandering the cobblestone streets of Tbilisi, Georgia offers a wealth of experiences at a fraction of the cost of its European neighbors.
Top Experiences:
- Wine tasting in Kakheti
- Exploring the caves of Vardzia
- Hiking in the Svaneti region
8. Nicaragua
Average Daily Budget: $25 – $40 USD
Currency: Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO)
Often called the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes,” Nicaragua is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Central America. With pristine beaches, colonial cities like Granada, and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s an adventurer’s playground. Whether you want to surf, hike volcanoes, or chill in a hammock by the beach, Nicaragua offers budget-friendly options across the board.
Top Experiences:
- Exploring the colonial city of Granada
- Surfing on the Pacific coast
- Climbing Cerro Negro volcano
9. Bolivia
Average Daily Budget: $25 – $35 USD
Currency: Bolivian Boliviano (BOB)
Bolivia is one of South America’s most affordable countries, offering dramatic landscapes that range from the Andes Mountains to the Amazon Basin. Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, is Bolivia’s standout attraction and offers unforgettable tours that won’t break the bank. Public transport, meals, and accommodations are all inexpensive, making Bolivia a top destination for budget travelers.
Top Experiences:
- Touring the Salar de Uyuni
- Visiting La Paz and the Valley of the Moon
- Hiking in the Cordillera Real
10. Serbia
Average Daily Budget: $25 – $40 USD
Currency: Serbian Dinar (RSD)
Serbia, located in the Balkans, is often overlooked by travelers but offers one of Europe’s best-value destinations. With its vibrant capital, Belgrade, beautiful nature, and rich cultural heritage, Serbia provides a mix of history and modernity at a budget-friendly price. Meals, accommodations, and even nightlife in Serbia are much cheaper than in Western Europe, making it a fantastic destination for budget-conscious travelers.
Top Experiences:
- Exploring Belgrade’s nightlife and history
- Hiking in Tara National Park
- Visiting the monasteries of Fruška Gora
Tips for Budget Travel (Countries to visit on a budget)
- Stay in hostels or homestays to save money on accommodations.
- Eat local food and street food, which is often delicious and much cheaper than restaurants.
- Use public transport or travel by foot to reduce transportation costs.
- Look for free activities, such as hiking, exploring markets, or visiting historical sites.
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out on incredible experiences. These 10 destinations offer rich cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and adventure—all without breaking the bank. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey, even on the smallest of budgets!
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