Top Budget-Friendly Destinations for Epic Adventures

One of the most recurring dreams for people is the possibility to travel the world and explore all the incredible places it has to offer. At the same time, one of the main obstacles people comment on is the lack of funds to travel. Is it possible to explore the world without breaking the bank account? The common belief is that traveling is expensive, but we think that it is possible to go on budget-friendly adventures. 

In this post, we will share with you some hidden gems that won’t hurt your finances. We'll explore incredible destinations in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America, all proven paradises for budget-conscious travelers. Also, we will include some great tips to save money on your journey, so you can make the most out of your trip! Let's get started. 

Best places to travel on a budget 2024

For our guide, we will provide some estimated budgets in USD for each country or region. Keep in mind that these budgets are for backpacking travelers, choosing the cheapest (still safest and comfortable) options, like staying at hostels, eating locally, and low-cost activities. 

Southeast Asia

When we talk about small-budget travel destinations, we need to mention Southeast Asia. Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos are wonderful options for some cheap backpacking adventures. Not only are there paradisiacal places with many natural attractions, but they also boast a rich culture and mouthwatering gastronomy. 

Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular locations due to its island and beaches, which are the true definition of paradise. The coast region is cheap enough, but we also recommend heading to Chiang Mai to discover Buddhist temples, natural parks, and more attractions. You can plan a budget of $25 - $30 per day. 

Vietnam

Vietnam is another affordable travel for young adults. Street food is delicious and you won’t spend more than a couple of dollars per meal. There are different tourist locations, or you can explore the less-visited areas to save up more. Don’t miss going to Tam Coc and Phong Nha, which are a must-have. For Vietnam, you can plan a budget of $25 per day. 

Cambodia

Next on the list of the best countries in Southeast Asia backpacking is Cambodia, which is probably cheaper than Thailand. Famous for its temples, like Angkor Wat, this country is a hidden gem. Don’t miss the island of Koh Rong Sanloem, a gorgeous location with unbeatable landscapes. For Cambodia, you can plan a budget of $25 per day. 

Laos

Last on our list, we have Laos, which is like Thailand, but without the tourist crowds. It’s famous for its rural environment which is 70% forest. Prepare to practice many outdoor activities like hiking, ziplining, kayaking, climbing, hot air ballooning, trekking, and more! You can also expect a budget of $25 per day. 

Europe

There is the misconception that to explore Europe you need a big budget. In reality, Eastern Europe is pretty cheap compared with the Western region. There are different hidden gems that you can visit and explore that make budget travel in Eastern Europe possible. 

The Balkans

We begin with The Balkans, a region that includes different affordable countries with few tourists, so far being the less famous area of Europe. With incredible nature scenes and coasts, delicious wine, rich food, and vibrant nightlife, The Balkans will surprise you. You can expect to spend around $40 per day. 

Portugal

If you want a Western option, there is Portugal. Even though Lisbon has become pretty popular with the influx of digital nomads, you can go visit the outside and find incredibly cheap prices. With gorgeous landscapes and coasts, this is the best option for budget travel to Europe. Expect to spend around $50 per day. 

Romania

Romania is another excellent option in Eastern Europe. Ideal all year round with beautiful medieval architecture and, during the winter, low-cost ski resorts! You cannot miss visiting Transylvania, a charming region with medieval towns and ancient churches. You can get by with $30 to $40 per day. 

Baltic States

Lastly, we have the Baltic States, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania with Nordic inspiration but just a fraction of the cost. Think of lakes, vodka, skiing, and log cabins. Some cities can be cheaper than others, depending if they are tourist centers, but you can expect to spend around $35 per day. 

Latin America

If you are looking for paradise, then definitely Latin America is your goal destination. Not only is it affordable, but you will find astonishing landscapes, rich and delicious gastronomy, complex culture, and friendly people. 

Colombia

Our list begins with Colombia, a destination that became famous due to many shows and movies. This country has a bit of everything, from incredible beaches to forests, and the Andes mountains. With a vibrant culture and rich nightlife, Colombia is a great destination for budget-friendly travelers. For backpackers, you can expect to spend around $30 per day. 

Mexico

Of course, we cannot avoid mentioning Mexico. Even though it isn’t one of the cheapest in Latin America, it is cheaper than other countries. Here you can find everything, from ruins to pyramids, unbeatable beaches, and deserts. Besides, you can also enjoy its rich and warm food, heaven for spicy food lovers. Expect a budget of $50 per day. 

Bolivia

Now, one of the cheapest options is Bolivia, oftentimes ignored for its lack of beaches. But Bolivia makes it up with the world’s highest lake Titicaca, a wide range of gorgeous mountains, and salt flats. For $20 per day, this location is completely worth it. 

Argentina

Last on our list, we cannot skip Argentina. Known as the Europe of the Americas, Argentina is an enormous country that offers everything. Buenos Aires has become a hotspot for digital nomads already. If you head to the north, you will be able to save up more and explore the waterfalls of Iguazu, and the desertic areas of Salta. Heading to the south, the prices rise, but the Patagonia region is a destination that everybody must see. Depending on the region, you can expect a budget of around $30 - $50.