Live large on a tiny budget—these breathtaking destinations cost less than dinner out.
You don’t need a fat bank account to travel somewhere breathtaking? Some of the world’s most stunning destinations are shockingly affordable—you just need to know where to go. For $50 a day, you can eat well, sleep comfortably, and experience unforgettable adventures without constantly checking your bank balance. The secret is choosing places where your money stretches further, giving you more for less. Imagine sipping coffee with a jaw-dropping view, exploring ancient ruins, or lounging on a postcard-perfect beach—all without breaking the bank.
Affordable travel isn’t about sacrificing comfort or missing out on experiences. It’s about knowing where your dollar works the hardest so you can enjoy every moment without stressing over the cost. These destinations prove that budget travel doesn’t mean settling for less—it means unlocking incredible places that are just as dreamy as the pricey spots but way easier on your wallet.
1. You can live like royalty in Vietnam for just $50 a day.
Vietnam is one of those places where your money stretches unbelievably far without sacrificing quality. Street food here isn’t just cheap—it’s legendary, and food expert, Sonny, gives you a glimpse on his YouTube channel, Best Ever Food Review Show. A steaming bowl of pho or a plate of fresh spring rolls will set you back just a few bucks. Accommodation? You can snag a comfortable guesthouse or even a boutique hotel for under $30 a night. The real magic, though, is in the experiences.
Whether you’re cruising through Ha Long Bay, exploring ancient temples in Hue, or motorbiking through the stunning countryside, it’s all incredibly budget-friendly. Local buses and trains make getting around cheap and easy, and if you stick to night markets and local restaurants, you’ll be eating like a king without the royal price tag. Vietnam proves that you don’t need a luxury budget to enjoy world-class scenery, history, and food. At just $50 a day, you won’t believe how far your money goes.
2. Stunning beaches and cheap living make Thailand a budget traveler’s paradise.
Thailand has long been a favorite for budget travelers, and for good reason. Whether you’re island-hopping in the south or exploring the mountains of Chiang Mai, you’ll find incredible beauty for next to nothing. Hostels and guesthouses go for as little as $10 a night, according to writers a Agoda.com, while delicious pad Thai or spicy green curry from a street vendor will set you back about $2. The beaches? Picture turquoise water, swaying palm trees, and soft sand—all free.
Transportation is also a steal, with cheap buses, trains, and even motorbike rentals making it easy to get around. If you want adventure, Thailand delivers—snorkeling, jungle treks, and even ethical elephant sanctuaries won’t break your budget. The best part? The warm, welcoming locals and laid-back vibe make it feel like home. At just $50 a day, you’ll be living your best life in paradise without worrying about your wallet.
3. Mexico gives you vibrant culture, epic food, and stunning sights on the cheap.
Mexico is one of the best-value destinations in the world, offering a mix of history, beaches, and world-class food at unbelievably low prices. You can devour tacos for less than a dollar each, sip fresh-squeezed juice for pennies, and grab an ice-cold beer for under $2. Comfortable guesthouses, Airbnb stays, and budget hotels often cost under $30 a night, according to Lauren Juleff on her site, Never Ending Footsteps. Want adventure? Explore ancient ruins, snorkel in cenotes, or wander colorful markets—all without spending much.
Public transportation is super cheap, and overnight buses help save on accommodation while covering long distances. Plus, with the country’s diverse landscapes—from colonial cities to jungle ruins to postcard-perfect beaches—you’ll never run out of incredible places to explore. Whether you’re strolling through Mexico City’s vibrant streets or relaxing on the beaches of Oaxaca, $50 a day will give you way more than you’d expect.
4. You can stretch your dollars ridiculously far in Indonesia.
Indonesia isn’t just Bali—though Bali alone makes an amazing budget destination. This island-packed paradise offers jaw-dropping beaches, lush jungles, and fascinating culture for next to nothing. You can find beachfront bungalows for as low as $20 a night, eat incredible local dishes like nasi goreng or satay skewers for just a couple of bucks, and get around on cheap scooters or shared transport. Island-hopping? Ferries between islands are super affordable, meaning you can explore multiple spots without draining your budget.
From hiking volcanoes in Java to diving in the Gili Islands, Indonesia is packed with adventures that won’t cost a fortune, states Bree Weidman with Goats on the Road. Even in the touristy areas, you’ll find cheap massages, free sunset viewpoints, and local markets where you can feast without spending more than a few dollars. If you’re looking for beauty, adventure, and affordability all in one, Indonesia delivers big-time.
5. Nepal lets you experience breathtaking mountains for next to nothing.
Nepal is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventurers, and the best part? It’s one of the most budget-friendly places on Earth. You can trek through the world-famous Himalayas, stay in cozy teahouses, and enjoy hearty local meals—all for shockingly low prices. Guesthouses charge as little as $5–$15 a night in many areas, and traditional dal bhat meals (rice, lentils, and vegetables) often come with free refills for under $3. Even permits for famous treks like Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit are affordable.
In cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, street food, local transport, and budget hotels keep costs incredibly low. And if hiking isn’t your thing, Nepal still offers stunning temples, lively local markets, and a warm, welcoming culture that makes every traveler feel at home. At $50 a day, you’ll get way more adventure than you ever imagined.
6. Eastern Europe is full of hidden gems that won’t drain your bank account.
While much of Western Europe is notoriously expensive, Eastern Europe is an absolute steal. Countries like Romania, Bulgaria, and Poland offer stunning castles, charming old towns, and incredible landscapes for a fraction of the cost. In places like Sofia or Krakow, you can get a hearty meal for under $5 and a budget-friendly Airbnb or hostel for around $25. Transportation is cheap, with extensive bus and train networks making it easy to explore multiple cities without spending a fortune.
There’s way less tourist crowds, meaning you can soak up the history and beauty without the chaos. Whether you’re wandering medieval streets, hiking in national parks, or enjoying cheap but delicious beer, $50 a day is more than enough.
7. Cambodia offers jaw-dropping history and adventure for pennies.
If you want to explore ancient ruins, stunning islands, and rich culture on a budget, Cambodia is the place to be. Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most incredible temple complexes, costs just $37 for a multi-day pass. But beyond that, everything is shockingly cheap—hostels for under $10, delicious noodle dishes for $2, and transport that won’t break the bank.
Even the capital, Phnom Penh, and the laid-back town of Kampot offer budget-friendly experiences, from river cruises to cooking classes. And if you’re craving beach time, Cambodia’s southern islands give you tropical paradise at a fraction of Thailand’s prices. The people are friendly, the vibe is relaxed, and your $50 a day will go further than you ever imagined.
8. Bolivia is the best-kept secret for budget travelers in South America.
Bolivia is hands-down one of the cheapest places to travel in South America while still offering jaw-dropping sights. From the surreal Salar de Uyuni (the famous salt flats) to the bustling markets of La Paz, everything here is budget-friendly. Local buses cost just a few dollars, hostels and guesthouses run as low as $15 a night, and traditional Bolivian meals—like salteñas and llama steaks—cost under $5.
For adventure seekers, activities like mountain biking down Death Road or exploring the Amazon Basin won’t break the bank either. Bolivia is less touristy than some of its neighbors, which means prices stay low, but the experiences? Absolutely priceless.
9. Guatemala gives you volcanoes, Mayan ruins, and breathtaking lakes on a budget.
Guatemala is one of Central America’s most underrated travel destinations, and it also happens to be one of the cheapest. You can wake up to stunning volcano views, explore ancient Mayan ruins, and sip some of the best coffee in the world—all without spending more than $50 a day. Hostels and guesthouses in places like Antigua or Lake Atitlán cost as little as $10–$20 per night, and meals at local markets rarely go over $5.
Want adventure? Hike up an active volcano, kayak across a crystal-clear lake, or explore colorful villages—all at prices that seem too good to be true. Even the famous ruins of Tikal, hidden deep in the jungle, are affordable to visit with cheap entry fees and budget transport options. Guatemala has that perfect mix of culture, adventure, and affordability, making it a dream for travelers who want an epic trip without an epic budget.
10. Laos lets you experience stunning landscapes and rich culture for next to nothing.
Laos is one of Southeast Asia’s best-kept secrets, and it’s shockingly affordable. Unlike its busier neighbors, Thailand and Vietnam, Laos has a more laid-back vibe, making it perfect for travelers who love slow, meaningful experiences. You can float down the Mekong River, explore waterfalls, or visit Buddhist temples without spending much at all. A comfortable guesthouse runs about $10–$20 per night, local food like sticky rice and laap costs under $5, and transport between cities is crazy cheap.
One of the biggest highlights? The stunning Kuang Si Falls near Luang Prabang, where you can swim in unreal turquoise pools for just a small entry fee. If you want even more adventure, renting a motorbike to explore small villages and breathtaking countryside will only set you back a few bucks. With its friendly locals, peaceful atmosphere, and ultra-low prices, Laos makes $50 a day feel like luxury travel.
11. The Philippines offers island-hopping paradise without breaking the bank.
If you’ve ever dreamed of white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and epic island-hopping adventures but assumed they’d be expensive, think again. The Philippines is an absolute bargain for travelers who want paradise on a budget. Domestic flights between islands can be ridiculously cheap, and once you’re there, you can stay in beachfront bungalows for as little as $20 a night. Local street food—like delicious grilled seafood, adobo, and fresh mango shakes—costs just a few dollars.
Ferries and boats between islands won’t set you back much either, making it easy to explore places like Palawan, Siargao, and Cebu without spending a fortune. Want adventure? Snorkeling, diving, and jungle treks are way more affordable here than in many other beach destinations. Plus, Filipinos are incredibly friendly, so it’s easy to make connections and get travel tips from locals. For $50 a day, the Philippines gives you an unforgettable tropical escape.
12. Serbia is Europe’s most underrated (and budget-friendly) destination.
If you think traveling through Europe has to be expensive, Serbia will prove you wrong. This Eastern European gem is packed with history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities—without the tourist crowds or high prices. In Belgrade, you can stay in a trendy hostel or guesthouse for around $20 a night, feast on hearty Serbian food for under $5, and enjoy live music in historic taverns for next to nothing. Beyond the city, Serbia offers breathtaking nature spots like Tara National Park and Uvac Canyon, both perfect for hiking and photography.
Public transport is reliable and dirt cheap, making it easy to explore charming towns and medieval fortresses. And if you love coffee and people-watching, Serbia’s café culture rivals that of Italy—except at a fraction of the cost. With friendly locals, rich culture, and incredibly low prices, Serbia is one of the best-value destinations in Europe.
13. Morocco gives you vibrant markets, desert adventures, and rich history on a dime.
Morocco is a feast for the senses—colorful souks, ancient medinas, and breathtaking desert landscapes—all at prices that will shock you. In Marrakech or Fez, you can stay in a traditional riad for as little as $20 a night, while street food like tagine, couscous, and mint tea costs just a few dollars. Exploring the markets, wandering through historic alleys, or admiring intricate mosques is completely free. If you want to go big, even bucket-list experiences like camel trekking in the Sahara or taking a guided tour of the Atlas Mountains are surprisingly affordable.
As far as transportation goes, buses and trains connect major cities for just a few dollars. Plus, bartering in the markets is half the fun—you can score incredible deals on souvenirs, rugs, and handcrafted goods if you master the art of negotiation. Morocco delivers an exotic, adventure-filled experience without draining your bank account.