You don’t have to break the bank to travel. If you’re a budget traveler or backpacker in search of a life of adventure, there are numerous destinations where you can enjoy more bang for your buck (or euro) without comprimising the experience itself. Whatever you are looking for: sunsets over a beach, hiking to mountainous peaks, or strolling around gloomy city streets, just what we have in store for you. Here are some of the most excellent budget tips for your upcoming holiday.
Why Budget Travel is on the Rise
With the cost of living going up all over the world, budget travel is no longer a fad, it’s a necessity for so many. Budget holidays provide a holiday that won’t break the bank, and travelers can get more out of their money by spending it on quality experiences instead of pricey sleeping quarters or pricey transportation. The key to budget travel? Planning, research, and value-for-money destinations.
We’ve looked for destinations where your travel money can go far but at priceless experiences. Ideal for backpackers or solo travelers. Here are the destinations where your travel money will go the furthest.
Exploring the Beauty of Eastern Europe
If there is one region that is always filled with amazing experiences at affordable prices, it is Eastern Europe. These offbeat destinations are ideal for clubbers and history enthusiasts alike.
1. Albania – The Off-the-Beaten Mediterranean
Albania is fast becoming a travel destination on the most adventurous travelers’ wish lists. With picturesque Albanian Riviera beaches, brightly painted villages such as Berat and Gjirokastër, and budget accommodations, Albania offers Mediterranean ambiance without the high cost of Italy or Greece. Average day-to-day expenses, including dining and transportation, generally come out to less than $40 per day.
Must-do activities:
- Hike green Valbona Valley.
- Relax on beautiful beaches like Ksamil.
- Explore Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
2. Georgia – Mountains, Wine, and Warm Hospitality
Georgia is a heaven for gourmands and nature enthusiasts. From sipping its age-old wines to trekking in the Caucasus Mountains, this country offers high-value experiences at fraction-of-the-cost prices. A decent meal in Tbilisi costs $5, and affordable accommodations abound.
Don’t miss:
- Wandering along Tbilisi’s historic Old Town.
- Sampling a slice of khachapuri, Georgia’s signature cheese-filled bread.
- Hiking Kazbegi National Park.
3. Romania – Gothic Beauty on a Shoestring
Romania has the potential to leave you speechless with the union of medieval structures, grandeur of nature, and shoestring lifestyle. Low-cost hostels and meals as cheap as $7 make it easy for backpackers to find urban and rural wonders.
Highlights:
- The mysterious Bran Castle—incorrectly linked to Dracula.
- Hiking the Carpathian Mountains.
- Strolling vibrant painted streets of Sighisoara.
Southeast Asia’s Timeless Charm
Southeast Asia is still the budget traveler’s destination of choice, and it’s easy to see why—reasonable prices, welcoming locals, and stunning natural beauty.
4. Vietnam – Budget Backpacker Bliss
With its delicious street food, historic sites, and breathtaking coastal scenery, Vietnam is a backpacker’s paradise. Meals never cost more than $2, and accommodations can be found for as low as $10 a night. Bus travel between cities and train rides cost pennies compared to back home.
What to put on your travel schedule:
- Take an organized boat tour of Ha Long Bay ($40 or so).
- Attempt pho and banh mi in the Old Quarter of Hanoi.
- Wander lantern-filled streets in Hoi An.
5. Indonesia – Island Hopping on a Budget without Luxury
Though Bali tends to be the glamour-grabber, Indonesia holds a whole lot more. Volcanoes in Java to untouristed islands of Raja Ampat, adventure never ceases—and won’t break the bank. Dishes cost under $2, and inter-island transportation can be had for rock-bottom prices.
Must-experience:
- Sunrise in Borobudur Temple, Java.
- Snorkeling or diving from the Gili Islands.
- A visit to Ubud’s world-famous Sacred Monkey Forest.
Latin America beckons the budget traveler
For adventurers who want to immerse themselves in dynamic culture and dramatic landscapes, Latin America is a veritable treasure trove of budget opportunities.
6. Bolivia – The Budget Backpacker’s Paradise
Bolivia is a reasonably priced place to travel to in South America. The harsh environment and depth of culture that make traveling challenging at times are more than justified by the amount of opportunity present in this beautiful country for $20 a day.
Highlights:
- Otherworldly landscapes of Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat.
- Markets and vibe of La Paz.
- Hiking trails of the magnificent Cordillera Real.
7. Guatemala – Culture Meets Adventure
Globally recognized for its colorful traditional markets, ancient Mayan ruins, and erupting volcanoes, Guatemala provides experiences the equal of the more expensive neighbors such as Costa Rica or Mexico. A dinner will cost $3-$5, and domestic transportation in “chicken buses” is economical and exhilarating.
Top spots:
- The preponderant ruins of Tikal.
- The serene waters of Lake Atitlán surrounded by volcanoes.
- Picture-perfect colonial streets of Antigua.
Africa on a Budget
Africa is easy to miss for low-budget travelers at times, but several nations on the continent offer an excellent scope for low-budget discovery.
8. Morocco – Vibrant Bazaars and Desert Treks
Morocco is a sensory overload, from the colorful souks of Marrakech to the serene dunes of the Sahara desert. You can soak up its culture and history for less than your budget allows—street food dining and hostels are at least $8 a day.
Must-do activities:
- Walk around Marrakech’s colorful Medina.
- Camel ride into the desert and camp overnight on the Sahara dunes.
- Find your bearings in Chefchaouen, the Blue City.
9. South Africa – Great Adventures at Bargain Prices
South Africa weaves together natural splendor, urban urbane, and safari escapades minus the wallet of affluent travelers. Favorable exchange rates for the overwhelming majority of tourists make effortless trips to all the big attractions a handful of pennies less than it would cost at home.
What to see:
- Quaint Garden Route along the south coast of Southwest.
- Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain.
- A DIY Kruger National Park safari.
Final Thoughts on Your Budget Adventures
Budget travel can seem restrictive, but you can see here that it’s actually about opening the doors to infinite incredible possibilities. From Georgia and Romania’s colorfully rich cultural side streets to Albania and Vietnam’s otherworldly beaches, it promises to be an incredible adventure-filled plan on a budget.
Remember, though, that the key to making the most of your travels is striking a balance between cost-saving measures and once-in-a-lifetime moments. When booking your next vacation, maximize flight discounts, remain open-minded with your travel dates, and travel to destinations at off-peak times for even greater value. Never has there been a greater time to pack your suitcase, hold onto your passport, and see the world.
Safe travels!