Explore 7 Countries Where You Can Travel for Under $30 a Day — Here’s How to Do It

You may have noticed that the cost of everything, from groceries to rent, is on the rise. Since 2021, inflation has hovered around or above three percent, peaking at a seven percent increase that year. It’s no wonder that many are opting to relocate abroad.

When life becomes costly, it’s reassuring to know there are places where you can rent a room for the price of a movie ticket and enjoy a full meal for the cost of a cup of coffee. In fact, after accounting for airfare, you can actually save money by traveling to certain countries for a longer stay.

Here’s a guide on how to navigate some of the world’s most budget-friendly countries for under $30 a day, covering accommodations, meals, and activities.

Laos

While Vietnam and Thailand often steal the spotlight, Laos tends to be overlooked. Maybe it's due to its landlocked position in a region famous for stunning coastlines, but those who venture here will discover mountains, serene Buddhist monasteries, picturesque rivers, and an affordable cost of living.

During my stay in Luang Prabang, I found a lovely spot like Phai Guesthouse for just $13 a night. The city boasts stunning French colonial buildings and bakeries offering tasty treats for under $4. To really save money, opt for meals from street vendors selling delicious dishes like noodle soup and sticky rice for around $1.

Nepal

I traveled to Nepal while exploring northern India. The capital, Kathmandu, offers some of the most budget-friendly accommodations (like Thamel Eco Resort, where rooms cost $20 a night for two). If you're eager to see the Himalayas, you’ll need to catch a bus to Pokhara, located west of the capital. The bus ride costs about $11 per person on an air-conditioned service.

One of the highlights of my meals in Nepal was momos (dumplings), which cost under $1 for a plate of about seven.

Indonesia

During my trip to Indonesia, I spent time on Bali, which is still quite affordable, although pricier than many other islands. Sumatra and Java offer incredibly low prices, while on Lombok, east of Bali, you can find a three-star hotel like the Hotel Puri Saron Senggigi for about $22 a night.

If you’re okay with simple meals of rice, meat, and eggs, you can enjoy local dishes like nasi goreng for about $2.

Thailand

While Thailand may not be the budget-friendly gem it once was, you can still discover affordable accommodations and tasty, inexpensive meals throughout the country. For the best deals, head north to the cooler mountains instead of south to the islands. In the northern city of Chiang Mai, for instance, you can find a private room in a guesthouse for under $20 a night. A nice meal in a restaurant generally costs around $8, while street food can be enjoyed for about $2 per meal.

Vietnam

Vietnam consistently ranks as a top choice for travelers seeking great value. Beyond its affordability, the country boasts stunning scenery, including over 2,000 miles of coastline. In Hạ Long, located on Hạ Long Bay, visitors can easily enjoy snorkeling and climbing on the striking limestone islands.

Hạ Long offers numerous hotels, hostels, and homestays for about $15 a night. After a day of adventure around the bay, you can savor a banh mi sandwich for around $1 or enjoy a bowl of pho for $3.

Philippines

Getting to the Philippines can be quite a journey, but once you arrive, you’ll find a surprisingly low cost of living. Even on islands like Siargao, famous for its surfing culture, accommodations are available for $30 or less.

After a day of catching waves, you can enjoy a plate of local dishes (like chicken adobo) for just a few dollars. If you’re in the mood for a Western comfort meal, be prepared to spend around $10, such as for a bowl of homemade pasta from La Carinderia.

India

I spent over a month in India, taking advantage of affordable accommodations and delicious, inexpensive meals. A private room in a centrally located hotel in New Delhi costs about $15 a night (one of my favorites is Hotel Hari Piorko). Street food is around $3, which is also the price for a ticket on a lower-tier train car.