Solo and Saving: Best Budget Destinations for Solo Travelers
Why Solo Travel Can Be More Affordable
One of the perks of solo travel is complete financial control. No need to compromise on splurge dinners or pay for activities that don’t interest you. You eat what you want, stay where you like, and skip anything that doesn’t spark joy—or fit your budget. Even better, many hostels, local tours, and public transportation systems cater brilliantly to solo adventurers. Plus, let’s not forget the often-overlooked cost-saving benefit of traveling light.With that in mind, here are some of the best places around the globe where solo travelers can experience culture, nature, and connection—without breaking the bank.
The best places around the world to travel alone
1. Vietnam: Street Food and Stunning Scenery
If you’re chasing a vibrant culture, delicious food, and jaw-dropping landscapes, Vietnam is hard to beat. From Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and the karst mountains of Ninh Binh, the country offers high value at a low cost.- Daily budget: $25–$35
- Why it’s great for solo travelers: Hostels are social, and many tours are designed for single travelers.
- Can’t miss: A $2 steaming bowl of pho from a street vendor, cruising Ha Long Bay, or renting a scooter in Da Nang for a coastal ride.
2. Portugal: Europe’s Best-Kept Budget Secret
Europe isn’t known for being cheap, but Portugal is an exception. With warm hospitality, golden beaches, and budget-friendly wine, it’s a dream for the solo explorer.- Daily budget: $40–$60
- Why it’s great for solo travelers: Safe cities, excellent public transportation, and plenty of hostels with organized tours.
- Can’t miss: Sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte in Lisbon, surfing in Peniche, or getting lost in the cobbled streets of Porto.
3. Guatemala: Central America’s Cultural Gem
If your travel dreams include volcano hikes, colonial towns, and vibrant local markets, look no further than Guatemala. It’s rich in culture and stunning in nature—and delightfully light on the wallet.- Daily budget: $20–$30
- Why it’s great for solo travelers: Hostels are social, the country is compact, and you can get by with basic Spanish.
- Can’t miss: Lake Atitlán for its volcano views, Antigua for its colorful charm, and Semuc Champey for hidden jungle pools.
4. Georgia (the Country): Hospitality and Mountains
Tucked between Europe and Asia, Georgia is a solo traveler's dream. It’s stunningly scenic, incredibly welcoming, and shockingly cheap.- Daily budget: $20–$40
- Why it’s great for solo travelers: Tbilisi is safe and lively, the country is small enough to travel across easily, and you’ll often be invited to share a meal with locals.
- Can’t miss: The hilltop churches of Kazbegi, the wine region of Kakheti, and the sulfur baths of Tbilisi.
5. Indonesia (Beyond Bali): Island Hopping for Pennies
While Bali gets most of the spotlight, the rest of Indonesia offers a treasure trove of solo-friendly, budget travel experiences.- Daily budget: $25–$40
- Why it’s great for solo travelers: It’s easy to meet others, internal flights are cheap, and there’s a laid-back vibe.
- Can’t miss: Snorkeling in the Gili Islands, trekking Mount Rinjani in Lombok, or temple-hopping in Yogyakarta.
Tips for Saving While Traveling Solo
Even in cheap destinations, budgeting well makes a difference. Here are a few solo-savvy tips:- Stay in hostels or guesthouses. Not only are they cheaper, but they’re also perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
- Cook or eat local. Hit up markets or eat where locals eat—you’ll save a bundle and get a better taste of the culture.
- Travel overnight. Buses and trains that travel overnight save both time and accommodation costs.
- Use travel apps. Tools like Rome2Rio, Hostelworld, or Couchsurfing help you navigate cheaply and meet people.
In Conclusion
Traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to spend big to go far. In fact, going solo often leads to simpler pleasures, deeper experiences, and yes—smaller bills. Whether you’re wandering through the lantern-lit alleys of Hoi An or hiking the Caucasus mountains, there’s a world of budget adventures waiting for you.So pack light, plan smart, and don’t wait for someone else’s calendar to open up. The world’s a big place—and some of its best corners are both solo- and savings-friendly.
