Looking for an adventurous trip without breaking the bank? Luckily, there are plenty of destinations around the world where you can have the time of your life on a budget.
Increasingly travel organizations respond to the growing demand for cheap holidays for backpackers. Whether you want to trek through Southeast Asia or stay closer to home in Europe, these destinations offer the perfect combination of adventure, culture and affordability.
1. Thailand
Thailand has been a favorite backpacker destination for years, and for good reason. The country offers an incredible mix of culture, nature, adventure, and beaches, all at a very low price. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene islands of the south, Thailand offers something unique for every traveler.
Why Thailand is cheap:
- Accommodation: Dorms in hostels are available from €5 per night.
- Food: For less than €2 you can enjoy a delicious Thai meal from a street food stall.
- Activities: Attractions such as temples are often free or cost only a few euros.
Tip: Book a cheap flight through one of the many travel organizations that have special backpacker offers to Thailand.
2 Vietnam
Vietnam is known for its spectacular scenery, from the winding rice fields of Sapa to the impressive rock formations of Halong Bay. The country is not only breathtakingly beautiful, but also one of the world's cheapest backpacking destinations.
Why Vietnam is cheap:
- Accommodation: You can find hostels from as little as €4 per night.
- Food: A bowl of authentic Pho or a Banh Mi sandwich will often cost you no more than €1-€2.
- Activities: Much of Vietnam's beautiful nature can be explored for free.
Vietnam is a great destination for travelers who want to relax and experience adventure without spending a lot of money.
3.Laos
Laos may be a little lesser known than neighbouring Thailand and Vietnam, but it offers a similarly authentic experience at a fraction of the price. Whether you want to relax on the Mekong River, visit the Kuang Si Falls or go on adventurous mountain treks, Laos offers everything for the perfect budget trip.
Why Laos is cheap:
- Accommodation: Dorms are available from €3 per night.
- Food: For €1-€2 you can eat delicious local food, such as Laab and sticky rice.
- Activities: Many attractions, such as Buddhist temples and national parks, are free to enter or charge a small entrance fee.
Tip: Laos can be perfectly combined with Thailand or Vietnam for a longer backpacking trip through Southeast Asia.
4. Georgia
Georgia is a hidden gem for backpackers looking for something different. Situated in the Caucasus Mountains, this country offers a unique mix of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. From the capital city of Tbilisi to the snow-capped peaks of the Svaneti region, Georgia is both affordable and surprisingly diverse.
Why Georgia is cheap:
- Accommodation: Hostels in cities like Tbilisi can be found from €5 per night.
- Food: Local dishes such as khachapuri and khinkali often cost less than €3.
- Activities: Many of the natural areas and historical sites are free or very affordable.
For those looking for an affordable destination off the beaten track, Georgia is an excellent choice.
5.Nicaragua
Nicaragua is one of the cheapest destinations in Central America and offers beautiful beaches, volcanoes, colonial cities and rainforests. It is perfect for adventurous backpackers who love nature, surfing or exploring old cities.
Why Nicaragua is cheap:
- Accommodation: Hostels are available from €6 per night.
- Food: For €2-€3 you can get a delicious local meal, such as Gallo Pinto.
- Activities: Sightseeing such as volcano hikes and surfing are very affordable.
Tip: Many tour operators offer affordable routes through Central America, often combining Nicaragua with Costa Rica or Guatemala.
6. Bulgaria
Bulgaria is one of the cheapest countries in Europe and offers a lot of diversity, from Black Sea beaches to ancient monasteries and the Rila Mountains. Whether you want to relax on the beach or explore the historic cities like Sofia and Plovdiv, Bulgaria offers something for every type of traveler.
Why Bulgaria is cheap:
- Accommodation: You can find hostels from as little as €8 per night.
- Food: For €4-€5 you can get a meal at a local restaurant.
- Activities: Many museums and attractions are free or have low entrance fees.
Tip: Bulgaria is an excellent option for backpackers looking for a cheap holiday in Europe without having to travel too far.
Whether you want to trek through the mountains of Georgia, explore the temples of Laos or discover the culture of Vietnam, these destinations offer a great experience without breaking the bank. Travel companies are capitalizing on the demand for cheap holidays and are increasingly offering backpackers more options. So pack your backpack and explore the world on an affordable basis!