When a limited budget stifles you, exploring the world and going on adventures you’ve always dreamed of can feel unachievable. It may feel impossible to do this while on a budget, but we’re here to tell you it’s not.
Traveling on a budget is entirely doable, with many affordable countries, like Mexico and the Philippines. These countries, well known for their history, culture, and stunning scenic landscapes, are waiting to be explored!
1. Costa Rica
Most known for its rainforests and thriving habitats, Costa Rica is also full of outdoor adventures, shade-grown coffee, and one of the slowest animals on Earth—the sloth.
The average trip to Costa Rica ranges from $850 to $1,450, with mid-priced stays and standard tours of the area. If traveling on a backpacker budget, travelers can expect to spend around $80 daily while visiting Costa Rica.
2. Mexico
Famous for its ancient Mayan ruins, Mexico is rich with culture, history, and adventures waiting to happen.
Travelers can expect to pay minimal money for food in Mexico, with some meals being as low as $1. It is an affordable location, with travelers on a budget able to easily survive and enjoy their time while only spending around $30-$40 a day on food and activities.
3. Portugal
Many world-famous explorers, including Christopher Columbus and Ferdinand Magellan, originated from Portugal, a place of opportunity and adventure. The beautiful country is well-known for its wine, cuisine, architecture, and beaches and is also home to the world’s oldest bookstore.
One of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, Portugal is the perfect destination when traveling on a budget. Meals can range anywhere from $6-$20 per person, with wine, soup, dessert, and more. For one person, a week in Portugal typically costs around $1000, which is outstandingly affordable for a trip to this inspiring and rejuvenating country.
4. Panama
Known for the Panama Canal, used for transit since 1914, Panama’s biodiversity has made it a popular spot for birding, snorkeling, and whitewater rafting. It is the only place in the world where it is possible to see the sun rise on the Pacific and set on the Atlantic.
Though Panama is a more expensive destination than others in the region, it is not impossible to travel on a budget. It can easily be made affordable by choosing free activities like going to the beach or one of the many national parks. On average, travelers spend about $79 per day while vacationing in Panama, with a trip for two people for one week costing about $1,103.
5. Guatemala
Referred to as the “Land of the Eternal Springs”, Guatemala is the birthplace of the Mayan civilization. Its ancient history reveals that it has been inhabited for at least 20,000 years. History buffs and culture lovers can expect many activities and sights to see in Guatemala.
Guatemala is an altogether affordable destination on a budget. Per day, travelers can expect to spend about $33.
6. Nicaragua
Home to 7% of the world’s biodiversity, Nicaragua is called the land of lakes and volcanoes, with biosphere reserves protecting rainforests overflowing with life. It is home to the largest lake in Central America, Lake Nicaragua, which is the habitat of the only known freshwater sharks.
Travelers spend about $54 per day while vacationing in Nicaragua. It is a relatively affordable travel spot, with meals for one day costing about $15 in total.
7. Belize
Home to the only jaguar preserve in the world, and the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, Belize is teeming with natural beauty and ancient Mayan ruins. It is a fantastic place to travel to on a budget, with daily costs averaging about $45 per person.
8. Indonesia
The largest archipelago in the world with over 17,500 islands, it’s no wonder people travel to Indonesia to experience the natural beauty of its coastal and jungle ecosystems thriving with scenic vistas and rich plant and animal life.
Indonesia is one of the cheapest countries to travel to, with a two-week trip averaging about $95-$331. This depends on your travel style and whether you’re going for cheaper activities and stays versus more expensive ones.
9. Laos
The Land of a Million Elephants, Laos, is widely known for its roaring waterfalls, untraveled lands, and ethnic diversity. It is incredibly cheap to travel to and explore when on a budget. On average, travelers can expect to spend about $15 daily in Laos.
10. Philippines
Well-known and loved for its scenic beaches and forests, the Philippines is often called “Asia’s pearl” for its breathtaking landscapes.
Thankfully, seeing this beautiful country for yourself is possible on a budget. The average cost for a meal for one day is $15 and about $22 for local transportation, making it easy to stay within your budget while enjoying the wondrous sightseeing opportunities in the Philippines.
Venturing Alone? Beware! 11 Must-Know Tips for Solo Travelers in US National Parks
Traveling anywhere on your own can be daunting, whether this is your first time hitting the roa…
Venturing Alone? Beware! 11 Must-Know Tips for Solo Travelers in US National Parks
Satiate Your Appetite With These 10 Countries Notorious for Their Delicious Food
Food is one of the most impactful aspects of humankind. It inspires joy, community, and creativ…
Satiate Your Appetite With These 10 Countries Notorious for Their Delicious Food
12 Things That Make People Terrible Tourists
Being a tourist in a foreign country is exciting – you get to see…
12 Things That Make People Terrible Tourists
Common Mistakes To Avoid If You’re Traveling To The US For The First Time
If you’re traveling to the United States for the first time, there are some common mistakes to av…
Common Mistakes To Avoid If You’re Traveling To The US For The First Time