If you're looking to travel on a budget, almost anything is possible with a few tweaks to your travel style. Even if you don't splurge on luxury accommodation, you'll want to travel more for less, and you'll have plenty of great travel stories to tell along the way.
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Here are some tips to help you start your trip on a budget, as well as a list of places and regions that offer more bang for your buck. Read on to learn more.
It may seem like traveling on a budget limits your options, but that's not always the case. Spending less money means you can see more, experience more and spend more time in local areas or both.
If your goal is to see as much of the world as possible, it's worth honing your budget travel skills. In a nutshell, this primarily boils down to flexibility. Find out how you can be flexible and save money while traveling.
sponsor: Do you owe the IRS more than $10,000? Schedule a free consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief.
1) Timing
When considering a destination, be sure to figure out the ideal travel time. High season usually means higher prices for accommodation and everything else related to tourism in the area. Traveling aggressively outside of high season can mean saving a lot of money on flights, accommodation, and other travel expenses.
2) Transportation
Depending on where you're traveling, you may have the option of using public transportation or motorbikes, which can be much cheaper than renting a car. When traveling between countries, you can choose cheaper options such as carpooling, minibuses, trains, and ferries rather than private taxis or planes.
3) Accommodation
This is also where you can save a lot of money. Depending on the region, you can save big by booking an affordable hostel, private room, or family homestay. Check local Facebook travel groups and travel sites for up-to-date information on reputable destinations.
4) Activities
Choose free or nearly free activities. Many countries have free or low-cost attractions such as national parks, tourist attractions, walking tours, and monuments. Travel sites, Facebook groups, and event sites can help you plan these activities.
5) Exchange rate
Looking for places where the US dollar is strong can also make your trip more affordable. Currency exchange rates can change, so check them frequently before and during your trip.
12 cheap and beautiful sightseeing spots
Learn more: 5 vacation destinations that middle-class families can no longer afford.
Are you ready to travel on the cheap? Here is a list of countries that are cheap, yet suitable for providing a fun and memorable travel experience.
Asia: Affordable beauty and adventure
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Thailand:
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Cost per day: 30-50 dollars.
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Budget-friendly highlights: Cheap street food and markets, affordable accommodation, and free activities such as visits to ancient ruins, temples, and beaches.
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Laos:
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Cost per day: 20-40 dollars.
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Budget-friendly highlights: Natural attractions like waterfall trekking, tubing, parks, and affordable guesthouses.
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Indonesia:
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Cost per day: 30-60 dollars.
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Budget-friendly highlights: You can surf, explore ancient temples, and stay in affordable seaside shacks.
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Europe: Enjoy Old World Charm on a Budget
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Romania:
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Cost per day: 30-50 dollars.
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Budget-friendly highlights: Low-cost Transylvanian castle tours, cheap homestays in the countryside, and hearty street food.
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turkey:
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Cost per day: 30-50 dollars.
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Budget-friendly highlights: Bazaars and markets, cheap and luxurious Turkish baths, and inexpensive local bus travel.
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Croatia (off season):
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Cost per day: $35-$60.
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Budget-friendly highlights: Little-known beaches, affordable local restaurants, and free natural parks.
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Latin America: diverse cultures and landscapes
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Guatemala:
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Columbia:
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Nicaragua:
Africa: breathtaking landscapes and wildlife
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South Africa:
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Namibia:
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Cost per day: Approximately $50-80.
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Budget-friendly highlights: Self-drive tours, camping, and affordable accommodation options.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 12 Cheap and Beautiful Places to Travel Abroad — and 5 Ways to Save Even More