If you love traveling, you know it can be expensive, especially if you need help finding affordable destinations. Fortunately, some places offer stunning scenery, unique cultures, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank.
In this post, we’ve compiled a list of 25 of the best cheap places to travel to in 2024. Whether you’re searching for the cheapest countries to visit, the most affordable travel destinations, or the safest and cheapest places to travel, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also provide estimated daily budgets and insider tips on what to see and do in each location.
1. Bolivia
Landlocked Bolivia reveals itself as one of South America’s cheapest travel destinations. With daily rates of around $25, backpackers can traverse surreal salares, Andean trails, and lost Inca ruins. Lake Titicaca and the breathtaking salt flats of Uyuni astound travelers while enjoying wallet-friendly prices. Bolivia boasts natural beauty and ancient history at an accessible price, especially during the dry season from May to October.
2. Cambodia
With ancient temple complexes and beautiful beaches, Cambodia asserts itself as one of Southeast Asia’s cheapest and safest places to travel. From the world-famous spires of Angkor Wat to blissful Sihanoukville shores, this ascendant nation unleashes rich culture and natural beauty that enthrall travelers with just $25 a day. The favorable dry months between November and May provide ideal conditions for exploring Cambodia’s treasures, with well-trodden circuits offering security assurances to match affordable rates.
3. Colombia
Colombia shines as one of the cheapest places to vacation in Latin America, with a $30 daily budget for vibrant cities, lost jungle ruins, paradise beaches, and towering mountains. Foodies will love the chance to taste some of the world’s best coffee and cuisine before hitting the salsa clubs in Cali. The region’s affordability means you can fully immerse yourself in the walled colonial grandeur of Cartagena or take the adventurous route and trek into the mist-veiled jungle ruins of Ciudad Perdida.
4. Croatia
Croatia consistently ranks among Europe’s cheapest countries to travel to, propelled by destinations offering historical beauty at budget-friendly rates. For an estimated $50 a day, visitors can wander around the marble lanes of fortressed Dubrovnik, trace the rugged edges of the Dalmatian Coast via ferry, and indulge in freshly caught seafood across the Adriatic islands. Attractions made famous by Game of Thrones sightings add to the overall value, offering opportunities to immerse in local life in tranquil towns like Korčula and Hvar.
5. Costa Rica
From steamy rainforests to stunning beaches, Costa Rica emerges as an affordable paradise for nature lovers as one of the cheap and safe places to travel. On a budget of only $50 per day, adventurers can hike through lush cloud forests, surf on idyllic Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, and spot sloths, howler monkeys, sea turtles, and more amid thriving ecosystems. Tourist safety is also prioritized, especially within well-established areas like Manuel Antonio National Park and Monteverde Cloud Forest.
6. Ecuador
The towering peaks of the Andes, Amazon adventures, and ethereal Galapagos Islands have placed Ecuador on travel bucket lists. This South American jewel offers incredible affordability. With a daily budget of around $35, consider Ecuador one of the cheapest countries to visit this year without sacrificing sights and experiences. Backpackers can soak up Quito’s colonial charm, trek through Cotopaxi’s breathtaking national park, and indulge in local coffee and chocolate.
7. Greece
Believe it or not, Greece claims a spot among the cheap countries to visit, blending idyllic beaches, ancient history, and fresh Mediterranean cuisine without the hefty price tag. Venturing beyond hotspots like Santorini and Mykonos, travelers can unwind in lesser-known gems like Paros and Naxos during the shoulder seasons. With only $50 a day, you can access the mouthwatering gyros, azure waters, and white-washed Cycladic villages.
8. Guatemala
Guatemala offers a unique experience with Mayan mysticism, vibrant crafts markets, and striking volcanic vistas. It is a cheap country to visit, with a shoestring budget of $30 per day. You can explore indigenous life, ancient civilizations, picturesque highland hamlets, steamy jungles, and the sparkling Lake Atitlán, all before reaching the magnificent temple ruins of Tikal. The best time to visit is between November and April.
9. Hungary
Renowned for thermal baths and Baroque architecture, Hungary shines as one of Europe’s cheapest countries to travel to. Visitors can explore the regal city of Budapest and mineral-rich spas for around $40 daily. Beyond the capital, fairy-tale castles and bucolic wine villages steeped in tradition await without breaking the bank. Incredibly alluring in the crowdless shoulder seasons of spring and fall, Hungary allows for wanderlust sans without the sticker shock.
10. India
India unfurls as one of the world’s most affordable countries to visit, unlocking immense diversity through its vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and majestic forts and temples. Despite being a rewarding yet potentially overwhelming South Asian jewel, India delights backpackers without draining wallets when sticking to a $20 daily budget. This allows for admiring the ethereal Taj Mahal, wandering Jaipur’s chaotic bazaars, and indulging in flavor-packed street foods, from sizzling samosas to rich curries.
11. Indonesia
Beyond Bali, Indonesia’s far-flung islands offer the world’s cheapest places to travel without sacrificing natural beauty or safety precautions. For instance, Flores Island flies under the radar with thrifty travelers who flock to azure dive sites and multi-hued volcanic lakes, revealing Indonesia’s rugged side. Backpackers can hike to Kelimutu Crater Lake’s tri-colored palette of surreal turquoise and ink black for just $30 daily while steeping in a relaxing local culture.
12. Laos
Nestled in Southeast Asia, Laos stands out as one of the cheap places to travel in 2024, promising an escape with calm Buddhist temples, refreshing waterfall swims, and French-influenced cuisine. With daily expenses of around $25, Laos offers affordability without compromising its cultural and natural splendors. The optimal weather between October and April brings prime conditions for exploring temples and outdoor adventures across this spiritually rich and less-explored land.
13. Malaysia
As one of Southeast Asia’s cheapest and safest places to travel, Malaysia lures visitors with its unique blend of cultural diversity, culinary excellence, and stunning scenery across pulsing cities, emerald highlands, and idyllic islands. For just $35 a day, travelers can dive into the modern, thriving capital of Kuala Lumpur before tracing colonial history etched in the temples of picture-perfect Penang. Jungles await in Malaysian Borneo, where rare wildlife thrives in landscapes untouched for millennia. These experiences combine affordability with accessibility, as top tourist sites prioritize precautions and value for money.
14. Mexico
From Oaxaca’s mole-slathered enchiladas to the sunkissed shores of Tulum, Mexico tantalizes the senses as one of the cheapest and safest places to travel with ancient wonders and cultural vibrancy. Backpacking adventures across this diverse country can cost as little as $30 a day – enough for mouthwatering al pastor tacos, enlightening treks to ancient Mayan sites like Chichén Itzá, and revitalizing swims in glittering natural cenotes.
15. Morocco
Mesmerizing Morocco emerges as an affordable North African destination and cheap place to go on vacation, blending desert landscapes, lively souks, and ancient kasbahs. The country provides safety assurances, mainly when sticking to well-worn tourism trails. Backpackers can roam through the vibrant streets of Marrakech, trek the rugged Atlas Mountains, and indulge in flavor-packed tagines and couscous for around $40 daily. Intrepid travelers can unwind in welcoming riads after adventures through kaleidoscopic spice stalls and bustling plazas while enjoying warm Moroccan hospitality.
16. Nepal
Nepal, the land of towering Himalayas and spiritual allure is an attractive and cheap travel destination. It combines affordability without compromising natural beauty and adventure. Thrill-seeking backpackers can trek to Everest Base Camp, find solace in the chaos of ancient Kathmandu, and enjoy the local staple dish, dal bhat, for as little as $25 per day. Additionally, Nepal offers adrenaline-pumping activities like rafting, exploring monkey temples, and mesmerizing views of Annapurna that you can enjoy even on a tight budget.
17. Peru
Home to the magnificent Machu Picchu and a wealth of cultural heritage, Peru shines as one of South America’s safest and cheapest places to travel. Backpackers can indulge in epic Inca Trail treks, wander the cobblestoned streets of Cusco, and savor ceviche for just $35 daily. With tourist safety ramped up across this affordable wonderland, adventurers can freely roam ancient sites through the Andes and sink toes into Pacific sands, especially when using common-sense precautions.
18. The Philippines
The Philippines makes it to the list of cheapest places to go on vacation in Southeast Asia, presenting sun-soaked beaches, rich marine ecosystems, and friendly locals across over 7,000 picture-perfect islands. Budget-conscious travelers can easily find affordable accommodation, transport, food, and more between these shores. The climate also caters to budget travelers from November to April as dry seasons promote open-air festivals and ideal conditions for activities, including jungle hikes and island hopping escapades.
19. Poland
Boasting historic cities, charming countryside, and comforting cuisine, Poland emerges as one of Europe’s cheap and safe places to travel for culture hounds on a budget. Visitors can roam medieval Krakow, venture deep into the Wieliczka Salt Mine, feast on pierogi dumplings, and craft beers for around $30 daily. Especially welcoming between May and September’s mild weather, Poland unfurls as the perfect crowd-free destination for soaking up its rich history, architectural wonders, and hearty cuisine.
20. Portugal
Portugal is one of Europe’s cheapest places to travel without compromising richness or beauty. Charming towns like Lisbon and Porto unveil ornate architecture and aromatic cuisine at around $50 per day at wallet-friendly rates. Backpackers can trace history along medieval lanes before indulging in fresh seafood, velvety custard tarts, and renowned Port wine from the Douro Valley. Beyond the cities, the dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and the azure waters of the Algarve continue to entice visitors on a budget.
21. Romania
If you’re yearning for fairy-tale charm and natural wonders without breaking the bank, Romania stands out as an affordable vacation destination, blending European history and nature. During the spring or fall, a budget of $30 per day allows for medieval wanderings through Brasov’s cobbled lanes, refreshing mountain air in the sensational Carpathians, and indulging in feasts of hearty, cabbage-wrapped delicacies. The optimal time to immerse yourself in Romania’s gothic grandeur and bewitching landscapes is between April to June and September to October.
22. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka shines among Asia’s cheapest places to travel, showing off gilded temples, adrenaline-pumping surf breaks, and wildlife safaris on a $35 daily budget. Backpackers tap into this island nation’s richness, watching elephants roam in Yala National Park before finding beachside nirvana in Weligama. The World Heritage site of Kandy invites further immersion into Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture and sacred sites amid stunning landscapes of endless green tea hills and ancient ruins, easily accessible even on tight budgets.
23. Thailand
Thailand is an excellent option for people looking for a cheap place to go on vacation. This Southeast Asian gem invites travelers to indulge in island-hopping, elephant sanctuaries, rejuvenating massages, and robust street eats across dazzling landscapes for just $25 a day. Backpackers can lose themselves amid the electric chaos of Bangkok before unwinding on the pristine sands of Phuket and Koh Samui.
24. Turkey
Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey stands out as one of the most affordable countries to visit, blending dynamic cultures, sceneries, and cuisines. Backpackers can explore Istanbul’s historical sites, experience Cappadocia’s lunar landscapes, and marvel at Pamukkale’s travertines for under $40 daily. Beyond expected affordability, Turkey is a year-round highlight reel mixing natural beauty, ancient ruins, and hospitality without premium price tags.
25. Vietnam
Vietnam cements its reputation as one of the cheapest countries to travel to, blending dynamic cities, verdant rice paddies, and flavorful cuisine without draining budgets. Backpackers can explore Hanoi, hike in Sapa, and indulge in pho for just $20 daily. Even mid-range travelers find Vietnam affordable between November and April’s ideal weather. Mesmerizing landscapes and delectable street food await travelers from the Mekong Delta to Hoi An, all while keeping the trip budget in check.
Wrapping up
Now that you have discovered 25 of the best budget-friendly travel destinations for 2024, it is time to start planning your next adventure. With OneAir, you can discover some of the best affordable and safe travel destinations worldwide. From the stunning beaches of Mexico to the cultural vibrancy of Thailand, the rugged landscapes of Peru to the idyllic beaches of Greece, you can explore these fantastic places without worrying about your budget.
