The 18 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2024

In 2024, travelers seeking budget-friendly destinations have a variety of options across different continents. These destinations offer unique experiences at a fraction of the cost compared to more popular tourist spots.

Each location presents its own set of attractions, ranging from natural wonders and historical sites to vibrant local cultures and cuisines.

The affordability of these destinations is a significant draw, allowing travelers to enjoy diverse experiences without straining their finances.

Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins, trekking through national parks, lounging on pristine beaches, or immersing in local traditions, these destinations provide a rich tapestry of experiences for the budget-conscious traveler.

Cheapest Places to Travel

Mexico

Mexico stands out as an affordable travel destination, particularly appealing to North Americans due to its proximity and favorable airfare costs. Despite some currency fluctuations, Mexico continues to offer great value for money.

The diverse landscapes, from stunning beach resorts like Cancun, Cabo, and Tulum, to culturally rich cities such as Mexico City and Oaxaca, cater to various interests. While some tourist areas might have higher costs, there are numerous affordable options across the country.

A daily budget of around $40 for backpackers and $65 for mid-range travelers can cover expenses, making it an excellent choice for a budget-friendly vacation.

Vietnam

Vietnam, amidst its economic growth, remains one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Asia. Known for its delicious food, breathtaking nature, and rich cultural sights, it’s a country where travelers can enjoy a high value for money.

The cost of living is relatively low, with local meals and beers available at a fraction of Western prices. Accommodation offers great value too.

Travelers can explore less-visited areas for an authentic experience, such as Ha Giang province and Phong Nha’s caving adventures. With a daily budget as low as $25 for backpackers, Vietnam is perfect for both adventurous backpackers and budget-conscious holidaymakers.

El Salvador

El Salvador, once overshadowed by safety concerns, has undergone a transformation, making it a new favorite among budget travelers. Its improved security situation has opened up opportunities to explore its natural beauty and cultural richness.

The country offers a mix of surfer beaches, volcanic landscapes, and charming colonial towns, all at some of Central America’s lowest costs.

With a daily backpacker budget of about $30 and a mid-range budget of $45, El Salvador is emerging as a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure without breaking the bank. Its unique blend of attractions caters to a range of interests, from nature enthusiasts to culture seekers.

Albania

Albania, a beautiful and underrated European destination, offers a budget-friendly travel experience with a rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Its affordable accommodation options range from hostels starting at around 950 ALL per night to budget hotels and private Airbnb rooms.

Albania’s cuisine, influenced by Mediterranean and Balkan flavors, provides an array of affordable dining options. Traditional dishes like byrek and speca me gjize are must-tries, and a meal at a sit-down restaurant can cost between 500-700 ALL.

The country’s landscapes offer a mix of picturesque beaches, rugged mountains, and historical towns. Travelers can enjoy a variety of activities from hiking and outdoor adventures to soaking in the cultural richness of cities like Tirana, Berat, and Gjirokaster.

Traveling in Albania is convenient with options like car rentals and public transport. With its warm hospitality and diverse offerings, Albania is an appealing destination for those seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation on a budge.

Thailand

Thailand, a country known for its picturesque islands, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, offers a surprisingly affordable travel experience. The country accommodates a range of budgets, from backpackers spending $25-50 per day to mid-range travelers at $60-100 per day.

Backpackers can enjoy hostels, street food, and local transportation, keeping their expenses low. Mid-range travelers can afford comfortable hotel stays, a mix of street and restaurant meals, and more diverse activities.

Thailand’s affordability extends to various experiences, including temple visits, island hopping, and enjoying the vibrant street food culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Thailand provides an enriching experience.

Indonesia

Indonesia is a diverse and affordable destination for travelers. With its vast array of islands, the country offers a wide range of experiences from beach holidays to cultural explorations.

Street food is remarkably cheap, with meals like Nasi Goreng available for as little as $1.30. Accommodation options cater to all budgets, from hostel dorms at around $2.50 per night to private hotel rooms at higher but still reasonable prices.

Transportation across islands is facilitated by affordable ferries, buses, and even domestic flights. Indonesia’s rich culture and natural beauty, including orangutan trekking and visiting Komodo National Park, are accessible within a modest budget. This makes it an ideal destination for backpackers and mid-range travelers alike.

Transylvania, Romania

Transylvania, a region in Romania, offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty at affordable prices.

Known for its association with the Dracula legend, Transylvania features medieval towns, ancient fortified churches, and the scenic Carpathian Mountains.

Travelers can experience these attractions on a moderate budget, with hostel accommodations and local food being quite economical.

The region’s charm extends beyond its Dracula-related fame, offering a range of activities from exploring quaint towns to hiking in the mountains. 

Nicaragua

Nicaragua is an emerging budget-friendly destination, offering a diverse range of experiences from surfing on the Pacific coast to exploring colonial towns and engaging in jungle and volcano treks.

The country’s affordability is a significant attraction, with daily expenses for backpackers and mid-range travelers being quite low. Nicaragua’s natural beauty, including beaches and volcanic landscapes, and its rich culture, are accessible without a hefty price tag.

This makes it an attractive option for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path travel experience that combines adventure, nature, and cultural immersion on a budget.

Türkiye

Traveling to Türkiye offers a blend of cultural richness and affordability. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly hostels at $8-$20 per night to more luxurious five-star hotels at around $150-$250 per night.

Turkish cuisine, a highlight of any visit, is reasonably priced, with meals typically costing between $4-$8. Street food in Istanbul and other cities provides an even cheaper dining option.

Attractions in Türkiye vary in cost, but many, like visiting mosques and parks, are free. Organized tours and hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia are available, with prices varying based on the type of activity. Overall, Türkiye is a cost-effective destination, especially when exploring local eateries and utilizing public transportation.

Cape Verde

Cape Verde, an archipelago off the coast of Africa, is an emerging budget travel destination. Known for its diverse landscapes, including volcanic peaks and idyllic beaches, it offers travelers a unique experience.

Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to more upscale resorts, with prices varying depending on the location and amenities. The islands are known for their music, culture, and cuisine, providing an immersive experience at a reasonable cost.

Activities such as hiking, windsurfing, and exploring the local music scene are popular among visitors. Cape Verde’s blend of African and Portuguese influences makes it a distinctive travel choice.

Colombia

Colombia is a vibrant country with a rich cultural heritage, offering budget-friendly travel options. Accommodations range from economical hostels to more comfortable hotels, catering to various budgets.

Colombian cuisine, with its unique flavors, is an integral part of the travel experience, and dining is generally affordable.

The country’s diverse landscapes, including its Pacific and Atlantic coasts, Amazon rainforest, and Andes mountains, provide a plethora of activities for travelers. Cities like Medellín and Bogotá are known for their lively atmosphere and cultural offerings. 

Bosnia-Herzegovina

Bosnia-Herzegovina, a country in the Balkans, offers an affordable travel experience rich in history and natural beauty.

The country is known for its Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian architecture, as well as its stunning landscapes, including rivers and mountains. Accommodation options are varied, with budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses available.

Bosnian cuisine, influenced by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, is a highlight and is generally inexpensive. Cities like Sarajevo and Mostar are popular among travelers for their historical significance and vibrant culture. 

Laos

Laos, known for its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty, offers an affordable travel experience.

It’s a country where you can immerse yourself in the tranquil countryside, explore ancient Buddhist temples, and engage in outdoor activities like kayaking and trekking. The cuisine in Laos is similar to its neighbors, focusing on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, with meals typically being budget-friendly.

Accommodation options range from inexpensive hostels to more upscale resorts. Laos’s combination of natural scenery, rich culture, and affordability makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore Southeast Asia.

India

India is a mosaic of diverse experiences, appealing to a broad spectrum of travelers. The country’s vibrancy is evident in its bustling cities and serene landscapes.

Indian cuisine, with its rich array of spices, offers a gastronomic adventure at every corner, from street food to fine dining. Accommodation options are plentiful and varied, catering to both budget travelers and those seeking luxury.

The cultural richness of India, from its historical monuments to its colorful festivals, provides a deep and multifaceted travel experience. 

Cambodia

Cambodia is a country rich in history and culture, offering a range of experiences from exploring the Angkor Wat temple ruins to relaxing on the white sand beaches of Sihanoukville.

Phnom Penh, the capital, is a bustling city with a mix of modern and traditional elements. Activities like boat tours and visits to national parks are available at affordable prices. Cambodian cuisine is a delight, with street food meals averaging around $1-3 USD, and restaurant meals costing slightly more.

Accommodation options cater to all budgets, from hostels at $6-8 USD per night to comfortable hotels. Cambodia’s affordability and diverse attractions make it a great destination for travelers.

Bolivia

Bolivia remains an affordable and diverse destination for travelers. Known for its stunning landscapes, including the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni and the Andean mountains, Bolivia offers a unique travel experience.

The cost of living is significantly lower compared to many countries, with prices for meals, accommodations, and transportation being quite economical. For instance, a meal at a local restaurant can cost around $2.9 per person, and a three-course dinner for about $11.

Accommodation varies from budget hostels to more comfortable hotels, catering to different travel styles. Public transportation is cheap, making it easy to explore this culturally rich country. 

Philippines

The Philippines, with its over 7,000 islands, offers a paradise for beach lovers and adventurers alike. In 2024, it remains an affordable travel destination, boasting stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and rich biodiversity. Filipino cuisine, with its blend of various culinary influences, is both delicious and budget-friendly. Accommodation options range from hostels to luxury resorts, suitable for all types of travelers. The Philippines is not just about beautiful beaches; its cities offer a lively atmosphere with colorful festivals, bustling markets, and historical landmarks. The country’s warm hospitality and affordable costs make it a great choice for a budget-friendly tropical getaway.

Nepal

Nepal, known for its breathtaking Himalayan ranges and rich cultural heritage, continues to be a budget-friendly destination in 2024. It’s a haven for trekkers, offering famous routes like the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit.

Apart from trekking, Nepal’s historical sites, such as the Kathmandu Valley and Lumbini, offer deep cultural experiences. The cost of living is low, with affordable food, accommodation, and travel expenses.

Local cuisine reflects a blend of Indian and Tibetan influences and is both delicious and economical. Nepal’s combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and affordability are worth exploring.

Final Thoughts

Exploring budget-friendly travel destinations offers a unique opportunity to experience the world’s diversity without straining finances. These destinations provide a blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and adventure, catering to various interests and travel styles.

From historical sites and scenic landscapes to vibrant local cultures and cuisines, budget travel doesn’t mean compromising on the quality of experiences.

It’s about smart planning, immersing oneself in local life, and discovering the joys of travel that are accessible to everyone, regardless of budget.