What Are The Cheapest Places To Travel? Your 2025 Guide

Are you dreaming of exploring the world without emptying your wallet? What Are The Cheapest Places To Travel? SIXT.VN is here to help you discover amazing destinations where your travel budget stretches further, especially in beautiful Vietnam. We focus on delivering incredible experiences for less, offering travel tips and affordable destinations for budget-conscious travelers. Let’s explore some fantastic cheap vacation spots and get ready for your next travel adventure without breaking the bank, offering exceptional savings and unforgettable travel memories.

1. Bulgaria

Bulgaria might not be the first destination that comes to mind, but it’s a hidden gem in Europe. It’s not just one of Europe’s best travel bargains; it’s also rich in culture, history, and authenticity.

Belogradchik Fortress, Bulgaria

Bulgaria has the potential to become a major tourist destination, but it remains delightfully uncrowded, even during peak season. If you find Western Europe too crowded in August, Bulgaria offers a refreshing alternative.

Backpacker Budget: $40 a day
Mid-range Budget: $70 a day
Highlights: Belogradchik Fortress, Rila Monastery, caves, mountain trekking, and Plovdiv.
When to go: Spring, summer, or fall.

2. Mexico

Thanks to favorable exchange rates, Mexico remains an affordable destination, especially for North Americans.

Mayan Ruins in Mexico

While resorts like Cancun, Cabo, and Tulum can be pricey, Mexico offers numerous budget-friendly destinations with plenty of safe options.

Backpacker Budget: $40 a day
Mid-range Budget: $65 a day
Highlights: Beaches in the Yucatan, Mexico City, and Oaxaca.
When to go: June to September and January (peak season), October to November and April to May (shoulder season).

3. Vietnam

Vietnam remains one of the cheapest countries in Asia, despite its economic growth. It’s perfect for food, nature, and cultural sights.

Trang An, Vietnam

Costs in Vietnam are incredibly low. Local meals can cost just a few dollars, and locally brewed beers can be as cheap as $0.25 a glass. Hotel rooms offer great value, with clean and comfortable places to stay for as little as $14 per night.

With SIXT.VN, you can explore Vietnam with ease. We offer airport transfer services, hotel booking assistance, and tours to popular destinations like Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and Hanoi. Let us handle the logistics while you enjoy the beauty and culture of Vietnam. Contact us via Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358 or visit our website SIXT.VN.

Backpacker Budget: $25 a day
Mid-range Budget: $45 a day
Highlights: Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Hanoi, and Ha Giang.
When to go: November to March (peak season), April to June and September to October (shoulder season).

4. El Salvador

El Salvador has transformed its security situation, making it a safe and affordable destination. Crime rates have dropped significantly, making it an appealing option for budget travelers.

Santa Ana Volcano Hike, El Salvador

From surfing beaches to volcanoes and colonial towns, El Salvador has much to offer at some of the lowest costs in Central America.

Backpacker Budget: $30 a day
Mid-range Budget: $45 a day
Highlights: Lake Coatepequeide, Ruta de las Flores, San Salvador, and Santa Ana.
When to go: November to March (peak season).

5. Albania

Albania is quickly becoming a trending destination in Europe. It may still be the cheapest destination in Europe.

Albanian Alps

Albania boasts an unspoiled coastline, a quirky capital, Ottoman-era towns, and impressive Alps. Hostels can be found for $10, and budget hotel rooms for around $25.

Backpacker Budget: $25 a day
Mid-range Budget: $50 a day
Highlights: Hiking the Accursed Mountains, beaches, and Gjirokaster.
When to go: July to August (peak season), April to June and September to October (shoulder season).

6. Thailand

Thailand, known for its islands and beaches, offers great value, especially in the Chiang Mai region.

Railay Beach, Thailand

Amid rice fields, temples, and hill tribes, you can find some of the best-value accommodation, whether you’re looking for a dorm bed or a quality hotel with a swimming pool.

Backpacker Budget: $30 a day (inland)
Mid-range Budget: $50-$60 a day
Highlights: Beaches, temples, and street food.
When to go: November to February (peak season), April to June and October (shoulder season).

7. Indonesia

Indonesia is an extremely affordable destination. Bali is popular, it’s becoming overtouristed. Everywhere outside Bali is much cheaper to travel.

Komodo Islands, Indonesia

Consider Lombok and Java, the Komodo islands and Flores, or venture further into Sumatra, West Nusa Tenggara, or Sulawesi.

Backpacker Budget: $30 a day
Mid-range Budget: $50 a day
Highlights: Bromo volcano, Borobodur temples, Bali, and islands beyond Bali.
When to go: June to September (peak season), March to May & October to November (shoulder season).

8. Transylvania

Transylvania, a region in Romania, is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

Transylvania, Romania

This Eastern European country has medieval towns, ancient fortified churches, and the Carpathian mountains. You can find B&Bs starting at $30/night.

Backpacker Budget: $40 a day
Mid-range Budget: $60 a day
Highlights: Towns in Transylvania, and European safaris in the Carpathian.
When to go: June to August (peak season), April to May and September to October (shoulder season).

9. Nicaragua

Nicaragua is the budget version of Costa Rica. You can have similar experiences at a third or less of the price.

Ometepe, Nicaragua

Nicaragua offers surfer towns, colonial towns like Granada and Leon, jungle and volcano treks, and Ometepe.

Backpacker Budget: $30 a day
Mid-range Budget: $40 a day
Highlights: Ometepe Island, surfing in San Juan del Sur, and the Carribean Corn Islands.
When to go: November to May (peak season).

10. Türkiye

Türkiye is a sun, sea, and sand destination close to Europe.

Cappadocia, Türkiye

While the Turquoise Coast offers budget beach stays, culture-seekers will love Istanbul and Cappadocia.

Backpacker Budget: $50 a day
Mid-range Budget: $70 a day
Highlights: Balloon flights over Cappadocia, Istanbul, and beach resorts.
When to go: May to September (peak season), April and October (shoulder season).

11. Cape Verde

Cape Verde is a hidden gem off the coast of Africa.

Santo Antao, Cape Verde

Sal has inexpensive resort holidays, while Mindelo and Santo Antao offer culture and nature.

Backpacker Budget: $45 a day
Mid-range Budget: $70 a day
Highlights: Hiking on Santo Antao, and beach resorts on Sal.
When to go: December to January and June to September (peak season), February to April and September to November (shoulder season).

12. Colombia

Colombia offers a bit of everything, with both a Pacific and Atlantic coast, the Amazon rainforest, and the Andes.

Cartagena, Colombia

Add to this the cities of Medellín and Bogota, and the warmth of Colombians, and you’ve got one of the best budget-friendly travel destinations in the Americas.

Backpacker Budget: $30 a day
Mid-range Budget: $50 a day
Highlights: Caribbean beaches, Tayrona National Park, and Medellin.
When to go: December to March (peak season), July to September (shoulder season).

13. Bosnia-Herzegovina

Bosnia has gotten back on its feet and has so much to show you.

Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina

Mostar is a highlight, and Sarajevo has genuine warmth and architecture.

Backpacker Budget: $30 a day
Mid-range Budget: $50 a day
Highlights: Sarajevo and Mostar.
When to go: July to August (peak season), May to June and September (shoulder season).

14. Cambodia

Some visit Cambodia solely for Angkor Wat, but there is much more to Cambodia.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

From the town of Kratie to the Cardamom Mountains and Koh Rong Sanloem, it’s also one of the cheapest destinations in Asia.

Backpacker Budget: $25 a day
Mid-range Budget: $45 a day
Highlights: Angkor Wat, Battambang, and islands off the coast.
When to go: December to February (peak season), April to May and November (shoulder season).

15. Laos

Laos is Thailand but without the mass tourism.

Nong Khiaw, Laos

It’s sparsely populated, mountainous, and has nearly 70% forest coverage, making it a paradise for outdoor activities.

Backpacker Budget: $25 a day
Mid-range Budget: $45 a day
Highlights: Luang Prabang, Mekong river journeys, and the Gibbon Experience.
When to go: November to February (peak season), October and March to April (shoulder season).

16. India

India is a “country of contrasts,” with a wide range of development and prices.

Taj Mahal, India

If you are on a budget, you can definitely travel India on a shoestring.

Backpacker Budget: $15-20 a day
Mid-range Budget: $40 a day
When to go: November to February (peak season), October and March (shoulder season).

17. Bolivia

Bolivia is often overlooked but has so much to offer.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

It’s also the continent’s ultimate budget destination.

Backpacker Budget: $25 a day
Mid-range Budget: $45 a day
Highlights: Lake Titicaca, and Salar de Uyuni.

18. Philippines

The Philippines has over 7,000 tropical islands.

Batad Rice Terraces, Philippines

Besides having oodles of unspoiled coastline, it’s also a culturally fascinating place.

Backpacker Budget: $35 a day
Mid-range Budget: $60 a day
Highlights: Islands in Palawan, surfing in Siargao, and Batad rice terraces.
When to go: December to February (peak season), November and April to May (shoulder season).

19. Nepal

Nepal is one of the world’s cheapest places for mountain trekking.

Trekking in Nepal

There are routes throughout the Himalayas that are very well-supported.

Backpacker Budget: $20 a day
Mid-range Budget: $40 a day
Highlights: Kathmandu, and trekking in the Himalayas.
When to go: October to November (peak season), September, December, and March to April (shoulder season).

20. Argentina

Argentina can still be considered rather inexpensive by the standards of the US or expensive Western countries.

Iguazu Falls, Argentina

While the Patagonia region is not necessarily a budget destination, the costs are normally very low in the north.

Backpacker Budget: $50 a day
Mid-range Budget: $70 a day
Highlights: Patagonia, Iguazu Falls, and Buenos Aires.
When to go: November to February (peak season), September to October and March to May (shoulder season).

21. Cuba

Cuba still feels very much like stepping through a time machine.

Vintage Car in Cuba

Travel in Cuba can actually be quite easy on the wallet, especially when using its network of Casas Particulares.

Backpacker Budget: $40 a day
Mid-range Budget: $65 a day
Highlights: Havana, Trinidad, and Viñales.

22. The Baltic States

Tucked between the Nordic countries and Russia you’ll find Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

Tallinn, Estonia

Just think ‘Scandinavia on a budget’.

Backpacker Budget: $35 a day
Mid-range Budget: $70 a day
Highlights: Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius.

23. Guatemala

Guatemala deserves strong consideration.

Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Its landscapes have a wow-factor that few countries can match.

Backpacker Budget: $25 a day
Mid-range Budget: $50 a day
Highlights: Tikal, Lake Atitlan, and Semuc Champey.

24. Morocco

Morocco is just a stone’s throw from Europe and quite cheap to travel.

Marrakesh, Morocco

Expenses drop considerably when traveling independently.

Backpacker Budget: $40 a day
Mid-range Budget: $60 a day
Highlights: Marrakesh, Fez, and the Sahara Desert.

25. Republic of Georgia

Georgia is a fascinating destination that’s right on the edge of Asia and Europe.

Mestia, Georgia

It’s super cheap.

Backpacker Budget: $20 a day
Mid-range Budget: $40 a day
Highlights: Tbilisi, the Caucasian Mountain range, and Black Sea coast.

How to Plan an Affordable Trip to Vietnam with SIXT.VN

Planning an affordable trip to Vietnam is easy with SIXT.VN. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Define Your Budget and Travel Style

Determine how much you can spend per day. Are you a backpacker, a mid-range traveler, or looking for a bit of luxury?

2. Choose the Right Time to Visit

The best time to visit Vietnam is during the shoulder seasons (April-June and September-October) to avoid peak tourist crowds and higher prices.

3. Book Flights and Accommodation in Advance

Look for affordable flights to Vietnam through online travel agencies or directly with airlines. Consider budget airlines for better deals. SIXT.VN can assist you with booking hotels that fit your budget and preferences. We offer a range of options from budget-friendly hostels to comfortable hotels.

4. Use Local Transportation

Opt for local transportation like buses, trains, or motorbikes for getting around. These are much cheaper than taxis or private cars.

5. Eat Local Food

Enjoy delicious and affordable Vietnamese cuisine by eating at local eateries and street food stalls. A bowl of pho or banh mi can cost as little as $1-2.

6. Plan Your Itinerary Wisely

Prioritize the destinations you want to visit the most and plan your route accordingly to minimize travel time and expenses.

7. Book Tours and Activities with SIXT.VN

SIXT.VN offers a variety of affordable tours and activities to explore Vietnam’s top attractions.

8. Stay Connected with a Local SIM Card

Purchase a local SIM card for easy access to maps, translation apps, and communication with locals.

9. Be Flexible and Open to New Experiences

Sometimes the best experiences come from unexpected adventures. Be open to changing your plans and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.

10. Contact SIXT.VN for Assistance

For personalized travel advice, booking assistance, and any other travel-related queries, contact SIXT.VN via Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358 or visit our website SIXT.VN.

By following these tips and utilizing the services of SIXT.VN, you can plan an unforgettable and affordable trip to Vietnam.

Why Choose SIXT.VN for Your Vietnam Trip?

Convenience and Reliability

SIXT.VN offers convenient and reliable services, including airport transfers, hotel booking, and tour arrangements.

Affordable Prices

We provide competitive prices for all our services, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

Expert Local Knowledge

Our team has expert local knowledge and can provide personalized recommendations to make your trip memorable.

Customer Support

We offer excellent customer support, assisting you with any queries or issues you may have during your trip.

Wide Range of Services

From airport transfers to hotel bookings and guided tours, SIXT.VN covers all your travel needs in Vietnam.

FAQ About Cheapest Places to Travel

1. What makes a place “cheap” to travel?

A cheap travel destination typically has a low cost of living, affordable accommodation, inexpensive local transportation, and budget-friendly food options.

2. What are some of the cheapest regions to travel in the world?

Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and parts of South America are known for being budget-friendly travel destinations.

3. How can I find affordable flights to these destinations?

Use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights, be flexible with your travel dates, and consider flying to smaller airports.

4. What type of accommodation is best for budget travelers?

Hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnb are great options for budget travelers looking to save on accommodation costs.

5. Is it safe to travel to these cheap destinations?

While many cheap destinations are safe, it’s important to research the safety situation before you go and take necessary precautions.

6. How much money do I need per day in these destinations?

Depending on your travel style, you can often get by on $20-$50 per day in many of the cheapest travel destinations.

7. What activities can I do for free or cheap in these destinations?

Hiking, visiting local markets, exploring temples, and enjoying street food are all affordable activities in many cheap travel destinations.

8. How can SIXT.VN help me plan an affordable trip to Vietnam?

SIXT.VN offers airport transfers, hotel booking, and tour arrangements at competitive prices, helping you save money and time.

9. What are some tips for saving money on food while traveling?

Eat at local eateries, try street food, cook your own meals when possible, and avoid touristy restaurants.

10. What are some cultural norms I should be aware of in these destinations?

Respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, learn a few basic phrases in the local language, and be mindful of local etiquette.

Ready to Explore Vietnam with SIXT.VN?

Don’t let budget constraints hold you back from exploring the world. With careful planning and the help of SIXT.VN, you can discover incredible destinations without breaking the bank. Vietnam awaits you with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and affordable prices.

Contact SIXT.VN today via Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358 or visit our website SIXT.VN to start planning your dream trip! Let us take care of the details, so you can focus on creating unforgettable memories. Your adventure starts here!