A woman walking on The Golden Bridge in Vietnam (Teerachat paibung/Shutterstock)
If you love to travel, getting the most value for your money is essential. The less you spend, the more destinations you can explore. While some trips can be pricey when you factor in airfare, accommodations, and meals, there are still plenty of places around the world where you can enjoy a luxury experience without blowing your budget. So, where can you get the most bang for your buck? We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top six cheapest countries to visit, according to budget travel experts across nine websites. Did we miss a destination that should be on this list? Share it with us below!
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6 Affordable Vacations, According to Experts
1. Vietnam
Vietnam is a budget traveler’s dream, offering a rich cultural experience and diverse landscapes at an average cost of just $60 per day, according to Kiplinger. From savoring banh mi in Ho Chi Minh City to exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter or touring Ha Long Bay, there’s plenty to do without breaking the bank.
According to Nomadic Matt, even with just $30 a day, you’ll live large in Vietnam. Hostels cost only a few bucks, and you can feast on delicious street food for just one dollar. Don’t miss the bustling energy of Hanoi, and be sure to take in the breathtaking beauty of Ha Long Bay up north.
With a favorable exchange rate, Condé Nast Traveler says there’s no better time to explore this Southeast Asian paradise. Hanoi’s romantic charm is undeniable, but hidden gems like Ninh Van Bay and Phú Quốc Island boast pristine beaches and intimate resorts away from the crowds.
2. South Africa
It may be costly to get to Cape Town, but once you’re there, it’s surprisingly affordable. According to Forbes, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience for under $70 a day. A three-course, world-class meal, for example, will set you back less than $44 for two people. And with Cape Town’s breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and endless activities, you’ll be getting incredible value for every dollar spent.
The dollar stretches far in Cape Town, making it a fantastic budget destination. According to Outside Online, you can stay at the charming ten-room Noah House, near Table Mountain and Kloof Street’s lively scene, for around $165 with breakfast included. For a more affordable option, Âmé, a sister property, opens in October. Along the stunning Garden Route, you’ll find some of the best land-based whale-watching from June to December, with accommodations in De Hoop Nature Reserve starting at $94, offering hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
Despite challenges like corruption and petty crime, South Africa’s tourism industry is thriving, with a growing backpacker and digital nomad scene. For $50-60 a day, Nomadic Matt guarantees you can enjoy the stunning beaches and laid-back lifestyle that make it so appealing. Be sure to hike Table Mountain, visit the penguins in Cape Town, and experience a world-class safari at Kruger National Park.
3. Portugal
If you’re looking to explore Western Europe on a budget, Portugal is your go-to. Outside Online points out that this gem offers surf-swept beaches, scenic hiking trails like the Fishermen’s Trail, and cycling routes through stunning coastal views and wine country. It’s perfect for active travelers who want adventure without breaking the bank.
Forbes highlights Portugal’s Algarve as a hidden gem, blending culture, history, and natural beauty at a fraction of the cost. With sun-soaked beaches, charming villages, and mouthwatering seafood, the Algarve delivers an unforgettable and budget-friendly escape.
A shared dorm room can be as little as $18.50 and a meal of grilled squid, soup, and wine costs just $16, shares Money Under 30. Plus, a quick $100 flight to the stunning Azores offers white sand beaches and breathtaking volcanic landscapes.
4. Argentina
Argentina is a top bargain for American travelers, thanks to soaring inflation there, so says Outside Online. In El Chaltén, you can enjoy a hearty steak dinner and a bottle of Malbec for under $25. What a deal! For accommodations, Senderos Hostería offers cozy rooms with stunning Fitz Roy views and a complimentary breakfast, while Chaltén Mountain Guides provides guided treks and mountaineering clinics in Los Glaciares National Park starting at $300.
According to Money Under 30, a shared dorm in Patagonia is just $18 a night, and you can enjoy a 14oz filet mignon with all the trimmings for $25. Plus, an 18-hour bus ride to penguin-filled Patagonia, complete with reclining seats and a bottle of Malbec for two dollars, makes the journey as delightful as the destination. By the way, everyone says it’s well worth the hike.
If you stick to free activities like museum visits, hiking, and free walking tours, Argentina is very affordable, costing about $40-50 a day. Nomadic Matt admits a guided hike costs upwards of $450 for a multi-day trek, but that’s still super cheap considering it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
5. Indonesia
Indonesia offers incredible value with an average daily cost of just $61. From the stunning beaches and volcanoes of Bali to orangutan colonies and giant Komodo dragons, this 17,000-island paradise has endless adventure. Best of all, your money stretches far, making it one of the most affordable tropical getaways, boasts Kiplinger.
Worldpackers suggests sticking to a few islands in Indonesia to keep costs low. Instead of splurging on constant island-hopping, focus on fully exploring select spots. Once you settle in, you’ll enjoy flavorful local meals and cozy hostel stays for just $20-30 a day, making it an affordable paradise.
Some of Indonesia’s most Instagrammable experiences may look expensive but that’s not always the case. World Wild Schooling says you can swing through the Ubud jungle, explore the Sacred Monkey Forest, and visit iconic sites like Borobudur Temple and Ijen Crater without breaking the bank. You’ll also make your friends very jealous of your fabulous pictures.
6. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a little more expensive than the other choices, which is why it is last on our list. With an average daily cost of $116 on a moderate budget, you can explore lush rainforests and volcanoes on both coasts of the small country. Costa Rica is a top frugal destination and was even named the best country to retire in 2024 according to Kiplinger.
If you need to spend less, you can comfortably explore Costa Rica for around $50 a day by staying in hostels, using buses, and cooking your meals. Plus, with flexible travel dates, Nomadic Matt says it’s easy to snag round-trip flights from the U.S. for under $250.
World Wild Schooling says to be sure to check out the stunning national parks like Manuel Antonio and Arenal Volcano, offering low entrance fees. With so much to explore, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers on a budget.
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