Come check out my top picks for the cheapest countries to backpack all around the world! Whether you’re keen to do Asia on $20 per day, or even Europe, I’ll let you know if it’s actually possible.
If you are like me and plan your next destination based on what’s affordable, then you are in the right place!
Seriously, if I had a dollar for each time I googled cheap backpacking countries, I’d have enough money to fund my travels in those more expensive places, such as France, gimme that cheese.
I’ve traveled both pricey and extremely affordable countries, and for some reason, I always have the best experiences in the cheapest spots.
If something goes wrong, then I know that I will be able to afford to fix things without breaking the bank.
My monthly expenses are always cheaper than they are even in my home country of New Zealand. I spent $4000 backpacking Asia over 6 months, including return flights and insurance.
Quick Answer: The cheapest countries to visit in 2026 are mostly in Asia, Central America, and parts of Eastern Europe. For backpackers, countries like Nepal, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Indonesia are some of the easiest places to travel cheaply without missing out on amazing experiences.
The Ultimate Cheapest Countries To Visit For Backpackers
Cheap Backpacking Destinations In Asia
Let’s start with the most obvious continent, Asia. Seriously, this part of the world is known for affordable holidays, and is one of my absolute favs.
You’ll find super cheap accommodation, food, and activities. Flying around Asia can also be extremely affordable with budget airlines galore.
Whether thats traveling the banana pancake trail in Southeast Asia or trekking in the Himalayas. You’ll certainly get a lot of bang for your buck!
However, there are certainly some things worth knowing before traveling to Asia, but let’s take one step back and look at what countries you should visit!
Sri Lanka
Now, Sri Lanka has certainly gained a lot of popularity. Located off the Southern coast of India, it’s super easy to get to thanks to cheap flights from Kuala Lumpur.
Here you’ll find tea plantations, busy cities, surf beaches, and wildlife safaris. Theres a good reason so many people visit!
Thankfully, it’s also a cheap country, with backpacker hostels in all the main towns, and transport crazily affordable! Enjoy some of the best meals (though spicy) while sipping a beer on the beach.
Highlights:
- Check out the beach town and all the fun things to do in Bentota
- The gorgeous train journey from Kandy to Ella
- The impressive formation of Sigiriya
Cost per day: $30.00
Laos
Laos is honestly pretty damn underrated. However, it’s slowly growing in popularity, especially for those looking for a more off the beaten path epxerince.
Even though Laos is landlocked, you’ll still find plenty of places for a swim. From the Mekong River in Luang Prabang, to the blue lagoons in Vang Vieng, and the amazing Kuang Si Falls!
I’ve actually backpacked around Laos twice, completely from North to South discovering some hidden spots. One of my favorites is Kong Lor Cave which is a must if you have time!
Come read my Laos backpacking itinerary!
As Laos was colonized by the French, prepare yourself for deliciously cheap baked goods and baguettes. The Luang Prabang night market is a must for the best danishes of your life!
Unfortunately, Laos is one of the pricier countries in Southeast Asia, well compared to Vietnam and Thailand.
Cost per day: $30.00
Find out exactly how I backpacked Laos for $30.00 per day!
Indonesia
Indonesia is another affordable spot worth checking out. As well as being cheap, it’s also super stunning, with surf beaches, rice paddies, and paradise islands.
Perhaps you’re keen for 2 weeks in Bali or a couple of months, you’ll find plenty of epic places to stay.
Thanks to cheap and delicious street food, super affordable backpacker hostels, and the low cost of hiring a motorbike, there’s no doubt Indonesia is a backpacker’s heaven.
You can even find yourself in a private bungalow for the same price as a hostel bed in Western Europe!
Just remember to eat local and get away from the tourist traps!
Staying in Bali and eating only at Western restaurants will result in you breaking the bank… and I found this out the hard way.
Luckily, I managed to regain my backpacker status on my most recent trip, exploring Java, Flores, and Lombok, and it was a lot more affordable!
Cost per day: $28.00
Nepal
Nepal is known as the cheapest place to backpack, and because of this, has an excellent backpacker scene.
Hostels are in all major towns, and if you’re getting off the beaten track, you’ll be able to find an affordable guesthouse no issue.
Whether you’re exploring a new city, hiking, or checking out rhinos in the amazing Chitwan National Park.
Home to the Himalayas, it’s no surprise there’s an epic trekking scene. If you’re keen, I highly recommend the Annapurna Circuit.
It won’t break the budget, unlike the Everest Base Camp, and the views are equally amazing. You can even find yourself free tea houses to spend the night at, which these days have Wi-Fi!
Cost per day: $18.00
Thailand
You certainly can’t talk about the cheapest countries to backpack in Asia and not include Thailand!
You’ll quickly come to love it here thanks to the amazing people, landscapes, and beaches. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families.
Hostels are literally everywhere, and it’s so easy to meet new people. The famous 7/11 has the most affordable, and equally delicious, toasted sandwiches ever!
Though, even if you’re keen on a more luxe time, you’ll still find plenty of options! Plus, you can pamper yourself with affordable massages, which ye,s are my love language.
Read my 3 weeks in Thailand itinerary for first timers.
Highlights:
- Spend some time in Bangkok and backpacker party hangout of Khao San Road
- Travel north to Chiang Mai to visit an elephant sanctuary
- Do the long journey from Bangkok to Koh Tao for epic diving
- Beach hop in Koh Phangan
Cost per day: $22.00
Vietnam
Vietnam is an awesome country full of some amazing sights. Whether you want to check out the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay, the rice fields in Sapa, or discover rolling sand dunes.
Oh, and I must say the food in Vietnam is some of the best I have ever had!
You can easily get around thanks to overnight trains and questionable sleeper buses. No lie, I absolutely loved the trains!
Being one of the street food capitals of the world, you’ll find so many cheap eats. All for just a few dollars!
Hostels are absolutely everywhere here, and many of them will have happy hour specials such as free beer! Basically the backpacking scene is pretty damn epic.
Read my Vietnam itinerary for 3 weeks!
Cost per day: $25.00
Find out exactly how I backpacked Vietnam for $25.00 per day!
Cambodia
A country filled with history and some of my favorite islands in the world, Cambodia is a must! There’s a crazy good backpacking vibe with super affordable hostels.
No doubt Cambodia holds a special place in my heart, I’ve backpacked around the country multiple different times.
Make sure to head south to the islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. They have some of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen!
I spent over 2 weeks in Cambodia and at Sunset Beach over of Koh Rong Samloem I even got to swim with stingrays, it’s a complete paradise.
Transport is extremely easy here, and we found it cheap to travel around in minivans rather than buses, like you would in the rest of South East Asia.
We also managed to hire tuk-tuks for $9.00 for half a day on multiple occasions.
Make sure you don’t miss visiting the impressive Angkor Wat Archaeological Complex, by booking a tour of the small circuit and grand circuit!
Cost per day: $22.00
Myanmar
Currently, the political situation in Myanmar is risky. I recommend checking out your home country’s list of ‘safe’ countries to see whether it has opened up again.
One of my favorite countries, it’s often considered one of the most expensive countries in Southeast Asia, but I’m proof it’s possible!
In my opinion, what makes Myanmar a slightly more expensive country than its neighbors is the accommodation costs.
This is certainly not the land of $3.00 hostel beds, you’ll be paying at least $10.00 per night. However, I did notice that the overall quality of stays is much better.
Don’t be too concerned by the high cost, as it balances out the overall cost thanks to the food, even at restaurants being super affordable!
Highlights:
- Check out the temples in Bagan
- Wander around the colonial city of Yangon
- Visit the bamboo U-Bien Bridge in Mandalay
Cost per day: $26.00
Find out exactly how I backpacked Myanmar for $26.00 per day!
India
This cheapest countries to travel list wouldn’t be complete without including India!
However, just cause it’s backpacker friendly, definitely doesn’t mean it’s somewhere I would recommend going, especially on a first trip.
The sights, smells, and noises can be extremely overwhelming, but for each negative experience you have, you’ll have 100 positive ones.
You can find dorms here for a few dollars per night, though up that budget slightly, and you could sleep comfortably.
India has a super impressive train network for getting around, and it’s crazy easy and comfortable…Most the time. It’s honestly my favorite country in terms of transport!
Though seriously, I’d come here for the food alone. It’s a never ending mix of delicious curries and lassies! Of course, there’s street food, but you do need to suss out the hygiene factor first!
Highlights:
- Experience sunrise at the Taj Mahal
- Take a houseboat in the backwaters of Kerala
- Get in touch with your spiritual side by checking out the incredible things to do in Varanasi.
Cost per day: $20.00
Cheapest Countries In The Americas
You certainly won’t find the cheapest countries in the Northern parts of the Americas. However, head further south, and you’ll have plenty of options.
With a whole new culture and language, Central and South America have an amazing backpacker scene!
From clear white beaches, rainforests, and snow-capped mountain ranges, it’s a pretty epic place to explore.
Guatemala
The popular backpacking spot of Guatemala may’ve been one of the cheapest places back in the day, though not anymore.
Honestly, this is somewhere I could easily see myself living, especially in Antigua. The weather’s great, the views are epic, it’s safe, and full of delicious foodie eats.
Grab your meals at local restaurants called Commodores, order the ‘meal of the day’, and try the street food.
Read my 3-week itinerary in Guatemala
If you’re keen to save money, taking chicken buses over tourist shuttles will cut down costs. However, I’d only recommend this if you can speak Spanish.
Must visit towns include:
- Semuc Champey
- El Paredon
- Flores, including a visit to Tikal
- Lake Atitlan
- Antigua
Cost per day: $43.00
Find out exactly how I backpacked Guatemala for $50.00 per day!
Cuba
Having become a lot more accessible, Cuba is welcoming tourists, and it’s gaining a lot of popularity as a backpacking destination.
Prices are affordable, though things aren’t all smooth sailing on the ground. You’ll likely deal with powercuts and money issues, which is why I recommend doing a tour.
Enjoy the sun, sand, cigars, and vintage cars as you travel around.
For affordable and delicious food, visit the local Paladres, which your wallet will no doubt appreciate.
Just remember to do what locals do. Speak Spanish and bargain, and drink rum instead of fancy cocktails (sorry).
Cost per day: $47.00
Mexico
So I’ve spent about 2 months backpacking Mexico and still have so much left to see! This place is MASSIVE!
This is the only North American country that is on the best countries to backpack list. And for good damn reason.
Not only is Mexico pretty damn affordable, but there’s an awesome backpacking scene here with a well trodden route through the country.
Hostels are everywhere, and you already know the streetfood is amazing!
Many people start their travels in Mexico and backpack all the way down to Panama on the Gringo Trail. This allows you to see the best of Central America!
Just make sure you’re prepared with some reef-safe sunscreen in that Tulum packing list.
Highlights:
- Check out some of the unique things to do in Cancun
- Surf in the Pacific
- Learn the history by spending 4 days in Mexico City
- Explore the Mayan Riviera cenotes
Cost per day: $45.00
Colombia
Colombia truly seems to have it all. From warm weather, colorful buildings, and gorgeous beaches to the ruins, rainforests, excellent coffee, and culture.
There is an awesome backpacker vibe here with some pretty epic hostels! They’re found all around the country, from large cities to rainforest towns.
If you’re traveling from Colombia to Central America, make sure to catch a sailboat from Panama via the San Blas Islands for the ultimate paradise.
However, if you are arriving via the airport, no biggie, your adventure has just started.
Cost per day: $30.00
Bolivia
Next up, we have another cheap coutnry to backpack, Bolivia. If you’re looking for a real adventure, this is an absolutely awesome option.
There’s a great vibe here with a lot of backpackers traveling down from Peru. Though Bolivia has its own highlights as well, such as the Amazon Rainforest, Andes Mountains, and many colonial towns.
Honestly, as someone who has traveled countries with language barriers, or perhaps you’re worried about heading to a new part of the world, I can’t recommend traveling with a group tour more!
It’s also an amazing way to make friends, and with a bit of research, you’ll find some affordable options.
There are plenty of different tours in Bolivia, though one of the most popular are definately out to the famous Uyuni Salt Flats.
Cost Per day: $25.00
Affordable Countries To Backpack In Europe
Honestly, Europe isn’t a part of the world associated with being ‘affordable’ and definitely has some of the most expensive countries.
However, if you know where exactly to explore, you can discover some of the cheap spots.
With budget airlines galore, you can easily travel internationally cheaper than a bus! Just make sure to read the fine print, as they like to keep you on your toes with hidden fees.
Portugal
Let’s start all the way over in Western Europe, and the cheapest spot you’ll find here is without a doubt, Portugal.
Spend a weekend in Lisbon, or if you have enough time, explore all of Portugal, or perhaps even do a full Spain and Portugal itinerary! Which is absolute #goals
You’ll easily be able to find affordable hostels, and as a result, a super social backpacker scene. It’s a popular place for couples and solo travelers with plenty of things to do in Lisbon.
Make sure to check out bakeries for cheap eats, and thanks to public transport its super easy and affordable to get around.
If this sounds like a good option for you, make sure you check out Portugal travel tips before visiting!
Cost per day: $42.00
Hungary
Next up, we have Hungary over in Eastern Europe. In Budapest you’ll find loads of fun hostels that won’t empty your wallet, and its damn pretty as well.
The street food is absolutely delicious and cheap. However, if you want to eat out at a restaurant, there are plenty of budget options that won’t break the bank.
Hungary has really been put on the map in the past couple of years, securing its place on the European backpacker trail and, thanks to its affordable prices, even has a large expat community.
Getting here’s a breeze. Flights from almost every big city in Europe won’t cost you much.
You’ll be spoilt for choice when deciding where to go next. Why not hit up some lesser-visited spots such as Estonia, Belarus, or Russia (need a visa for Russia)?
Cost per day: $40.00
Greece
With the famous Santorini and Athens, the European country of Greece is certainly more on the pricier side of the cheapest countries to travel scale.
Nonetheless, it can be surprisingly affordable, especially in comparison to nearby Croatia and Italy (be aware that come 2026 you will require an ETIAS to enter Croatia and other Schengen countries).
Greek food is bloody delicious and will certainly help you keep your costs down. You can find $1.00 gyros nearly everywhere! It’ll become your new diet staple.
Just remember to splash out on a delicious gelato every now and then!
Backpacker hostels can be surprisingly affordable, even in those dreamy island spots (though book a flight instead of a ferry to save money).
Cost per day: $40.00
Bulgaria
If you’re in keen to maximise bang for your buck, or euro, def head over to Bulgaria.
This spot is super underrated, though you’ll no doubt fall in love with the backpacking scene, delicious Bulgarian food, affordable accommodation, and epic parties.
Don’t worry too much about international flights either! The infamous Ryanair and Whizzair both fly here. Just book ahead of time for the best prices.
Honestly, Bulgaria has a lil bit of something for everyone, from the mountains, seaside towns, and big city living. No doubt you’ll fall in love.
Cost per day: $27.00
Turkey
Now, one of my fav coutnries in Europe, which doesn’t really feel like Europe is Turkey. From the mosques of Istanbul, coastal beaches, and of course Cappadocia!
Buses here are an excellent way of traveling around. They are known for being extremely high quality, I’m talking entertainment units in the headrests!
However, if you’re short on time, internal flights aren’t too expensive.
Though, what really surprised me was how affordable hotels and hostels were. You can get a dorm room for less than $10.00 even right in the tourist area!
However, if you are like me, and enjoy a cheeky upgrade every now and again, I found private rooms, including a traditional Turkish breakfast for $30.00. Even better if you’re traveling with someone!
Cost per day: $32.00
Best Countries To Backpack In Africa
There is so much more in Africa than just South Africa, where most backpackers seem to congregate.
Head north to some other affordable countries such as Morocco and Egypt. These places are also just an easy flight from many European international hubs.
Wanting a real adventure while in Africa? Why not do an overland tour traveling in a bus around this impressive continent?
South Africa
Seriously, who knew South Africa is super affordable, even in Cape Town!
Well, luckily enough its easy to find affordable accommodation as well as a big backpacker scene, and cheap alcohol. YUS bring on the free wine tastings!
One of the best things you can do in Africa is a safari to see the big five. Though to be honest, with park fees and tours prices quickly add up.
Thankfully, South Africa is the perfect place for an affordable safaris.
To get around, I highly recommend checking out Bazbus. Basically it’s a hop-on and hop-off bus through South Africa. It’s a super popular way to see the country and meet other travelers!
Cost per day: $55.00
Morocco
One of the most beautiful places which is worth visiting if you’re on a budget is Morocco.
One of my favorite parts was the beautiful and surprisingly affordable Riads to stay in! Seriously, you’ll be feeling like royalty as you fall asleep.
Make sure to try the street food with delicious kafta meats and kebabs. Theres no reason to go hungry here!
There are plenty of Morocco travel tips to make the most out of your stay. And it’s also super easy to get to thanks to cheap flights from Europe.
No matter whether you are traveling solo, bikepacking Morocco with your partner, or even exploring Morocco with kids, you are in for an amazing time.
Highlights:
- Morocco desert camping in the Sahara Desert
- Visiting the sleepy surf town of Sidi Kaouki
Cost per day: $40.00
Egypt
Having unfortunately decreased in popularity in current years thanks to the situations in nearby countries, the affordable country of Egypt has unfortunately fallen off the radar a bit.
Luckily prices here are crazy cheap as a result!
You can even find some epic stays with rooftop views over the Great Pyramids of Giza for as little as $20.00 per night!
Egypt is a place where you’ll get a lot of value for your money. With cheap meals, transport, and accomodation you’ll be enjoying your adventure like an Egyptian God.
Though personally my fav thing is all the affordable tours you can find around the country. Seriously even the cheap backpacking ones including some super luxe stays!
Cost per day: $48.00
FAQs About The Best Places To Backpack
Which is the cheapest European country to visit?
The cheapest European country to visit is Bulgaria with affordable accommodation, food, and attractions.
What is the best country for first-time backpackers?
I recommend Thailand as the best country for first-time backpackers. You’ll enjoy the prices, an awesome backpacker scene, friendly locals, and unique experiences.
Wrap Up: The Cheapest Countries To Backpack
Yay! You’ve made it to the end of this epic list. That’s no small feat.
And now you’ll know all about my top picks for the cheapest countries to backpack all around the world!
Hopefully, now you’ll have a good understanding of how much money you’ll need and what exactly you can afford.
Honestly, budget countries have been some of my favorites to explore. I prefer to get out of my comfort zone and explore those maybe not so typical holiday destinations.
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thanks for sharing this perfect article with us, it has made me a perfect reader
Currently in Laos (January 2023) and visiting with my Thai relatives, they say food and massages are cheaper in Laos. But clothes are more expensive because imported from Thailand. When it comes to dorms in hostels, they’re about the same I guess.
Hey Tasha, thanks for the great guides. Just letting you know the “Cheapest Countries…” image on the right sidebar is incorrectly pointing to your Vietnam destinations page instead of this one!
This is great! We definitely picked to visit South Africa for our safari because 1) we wanted to see the awesome cities and wineries too and 2) it was much more affordable to get to and find a good priced safari!
I know this is meant for backpackers, but I totally agree for honeymooners as well! You can get luxury for less and extend your stay when you go to more affordable countries! Love the blog and keep up the great work!
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AARGH what an amazing list. I have only been to Greece on this list and I’m itching to get back on the road. Thanks for the inspiration :)
Great suggestions. I´ve been to Cuba and Portugal lately and totally agree. Next on my list is Hungary:)
Gorgeous photos. Nice to show people how to do these things affordably. Been to all but three of these (Nepal, Hungary and Guatemala). Need to get to those. Just was in Indonesia (Yogyakarta) in March and it is extremely affordable and fun.
Wow first of all, these photos are just spectacular!! And secondly; you gave me so much inspiration where to travel this year. Thank you!
Indonesia <3 <3 <3 miss this country so much! And totally agree it is cheap, apart from Bali. And is wonderful, the archipelagos and beaches and waters volcanos, I stayed one month and ever since I dream to spend six discovering as much. Some others in the list, agree with everything about the destinations I visited so far, like Portugal, Greece, or Morocco, Cuba. Still to see about half of the destinations :)
This is noted. Thanks !
Love this list! I’m using this to plan my trip next year!
This is great! We definitely picked to visit South Africa for our safari because 1) we wanted to see the awesome cities and wineries too and 2) it was much more affordable to get to and find a good priced safari!
I know this is meant for backpackers, but I totally agree for honeymooners as well! You can get luxury for less and extend your stay when you go to more affordable countries! Love the blog and keep up the great work!
It’s a great list.. I would love to visit all the countries in this list. So far, I have only been to Greece..
I am studying at Singapore which is the most expensive country in South East Asia but is good to have amazing and cheap neighbor countries, looking forward to visiting Indonesia and Laos this year.
What an awesome list — all these years later Sri Lanka is still one of my favourite countries! :)
What an awesome list you have! I would love to visit every single one of them. The image you have for Egypt is not Egypt but Granada, Spain.
What a great way to plan 2018 already :) Thanks for sharing
I’m seriously thinking about a trip to Egypt next year, and I’m glad to see it on this list. Pretty much all of these destinations are on my list, and it’s good to know they will be friendly to my wallet.
I’m glad to see Greece and Portugal on the list! We’re planning to finish our trip around the world in those two countries :-D
I love Portugal and Morocco! Well worth a visit!!
Love this list, currently in Nepal and considering Laos in January if I have the time!
This list is amazing!! Hoping to visit some of these countries next year. Thanks for sharing.
What gorgeous photos!! I’ve been to most of these countries but not all. I’d love to tick off the rest of them, especially Nepal and South Africa.
I love this post! It’s a happy coincidence that almost all of these countries are near the top of my “To-travel” list! Guatemala is gorgeous, but the chicken buses can be a little scary on the narrow, cliffside highways. When I was there I commented to a local that Guatemalan drivers must be very talented not to crash. He informed me that crashes are actually not that rare :O Ack!!! Buuut, it IS the best way to get around!
I had no idea Hungary was one of the cheapest places to travel to. It’s been on my list forever, so I’m hoping I can check it off in 2018 now.
Super useful! I am always spending too much on travel..
This is such a cool list!!! And there are so many countries on here that I really want to visit :)
Thanks for putting together a very detailed list!
This is a great list! I would have never guessed South Africa would be on the list! And Nepal, oh I want to go there! Thanks for sharing!
How have I never heard of the banana pancake backpacking trail before? It sounds right up my street!
Thanks so much for sharing this list – I’ve been guilty of booking destinations regardless of price recently but I need to think about my budget in 2018!
I was in Indonesia a couple of months ago and it was so cheap! I was very pleasantly surprised! Great post!
Love this, good to know where to go next time! Super inspiring and love the pictures. They are beautiful.
Aaaah this list is giving me such itchy feet!! So many places to choose from! I’m heading to Morocco in the new year so I’m glad to know it’s not going to break the bank. Totally agree about Sri Lanka, but South Africa really surprised me! Great list, saving for future travels!
I’m so happy to find a few countries I want to visit on this list! Hope that means it is going to happen!
So many of these are already on my list! But I love having them all in one place. I also love seeing more photos. After traveling to Paris this fall I definitely need a more adventurous/cheap location to go to next year. Or more than once if I can! :)
Wow! So many great places! I am just like you in that I literally choose travel destinations based on price. I am excited to continue my adventures by adding some of these places to my list! Cheers!
You’ve just added some many destinations to my bucket list! Thank you! THANK YOU for this! love it so much! I am dying to get to Cuba and Egypt!