Where to Travel for Under $30 a Day: 15 Places That Stretch Your Dollar

15 Places That Stretch Your Dollar

1. Vietnam

Vietnam consistently ranks as one of the most budget-friendly countries in Southeast Asia. You can get delicious street food (pho, anyone?) for under $2, comfortable hostels for $5–10 a night, and intercity bus rides for just a few dollars. Hanoi, Hoi An, and Da Nang are especially wallet-friendly.
Estimated daily cost: $20–25

2. India

India is the land of diversity — and that applies to budgets too. From $1 meals to budget hostels and sleeper trains, it's easy to explore this massive country without overspending. Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Kerala are among the most cost-effective and culturally rich areas.
Estimated daily cost: $15–25

3. Bolivia

Bolivia is South America’s best-kept budget travel secret. It’s home to the otherworldly Uyuni Salt Flats, lush jungles, and the highest capital city in the world, La Paz. Meals rarely exceed $3, and long-distance buses are cheap.
Estimated daily cost: $20–25

4. Albania

Europe is generally pricey, but Albania is a delightful exception. It has gorgeous Mediterranean beaches, charming towns, and rugged mountains — all without the Western Europe price tags. You can enjoy a beachfront room for $15 and a traditional meal for under $5.
Estimated daily cost: $25–30

5. Indonesia (Outside Bali)

While Bali is becoming pricier, other parts of Indonesia like Yogyakarta, Sumatra, and Lombok are incredibly affordable. With $30 a day, you can cover food, accommodation, and even a scooter rental.
Estimated daily cost: $20–30

6. Georgia (The Country, Not the State)

Tucked between Europe and Asia, Georgia offers breathtaking mountains, vibrant culture, and khachapuri (cheese-filled bread that’s worth the trip alone). Hostels and guesthouses are cheap, and wine flows freely and affordably.
Estimated daily cost: $20–25

7. Nicaragua

With volcanoes, lakes, colonial towns, and Pacific coast beaches, Nicaragua is Central America’s budget darling. You’ll find $1 meals in local markets and clean hostels for under $10. Plus, activities like volcano boarding are surprisingly affordable.
Estimated daily cost: $20–25

8. Egypt

A walk through ancient history doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Egypt offers low-cost accommodations, cheap street food like koshary (a carb-loaded delight), and reasonably priced tours of the pyramids and Nile cruises.
Estimated daily cost: $25–30

9. Nepal

Whether you're trekking through the Himalayas or chilling in Kathmandu, Nepal is a paradise for budget travelers. Guesthouses in the mountains often include meals, and even in cities, you can get by with just a few bucks a day.
Estimated daily cost: $15–25

10. Cambodia

Cambodia offers rich history (hello, Angkor Wat), amazing food, and beautiful islands — all at bargain prices. Hostels are around $4–6 a night, and you can eat well on street food for under $2.
Estimated daily cost: $20–25

11. Morocco

Wander through colorful souks, sleep in desert camps, and sip mint tea overlooking mountains — all on a budget. Morocco’s transport system is cheap, and there are plenty of budget riads and hostels in cities like Marrakech and Fes.
Estimated daily cost: $25–30

12. Serbia

Serbia is still off the radar for many travelers, which keeps prices low. Belgrade’s nightlife is legendary, and the surrounding countryside is full of hidden gems. You can feast on local food and sip strong coffee all day without breaking $30.
Estimated daily cost: $20–25

13. Laos

Laos is calm, scenic, and shockingly cheap. Whether you're tubing in Vang Vieng, waterfall-hopping in Luang Prabang, or exploring sleepy villages, you can easily stick to a $20–25 budget — and that’s with a Beerlao or two thrown in.
Estimated daily cost: $20–25

14. Turkey (Outside Istanbul)

Istanbul is fabulous, but for better budget value, head east or south — places like Cappadocia, Antalya, or the Black Sea region. You’ll find hearty Turkish breakfasts, rich culture, and warm hospitality at a fraction of the cost.
Estimated daily cost: $25–30

15. Philippines (Off the Tourist Track)

The Philippines is often overlooked for budget travel, but if you steer clear of the major resort areas, it’s incredibly affordable. Islands like Siquijor or parts of northern Luzon offer serene landscapes, local eats, and cheap accommodations.
Estimated daily cost: $20–30

Travel Tips to Keep It Under $30/Day

• Eat local: Street food and family-run eateries not only cost less but often taste better.
• Stay in hostels or guesthouses: Bonus if they include breakfast!
• Use local transport: Buses, trains, tuk-tuks — skip the taxis and ride like the locals.
• Travel slowly: The more you move around, the more you spend. Stay in one place longer to save on transport.
• Bargain — respectfully: In many countries, haggling is expected in markets and for accommodations.

Final Thoughts

Traveling the world doesn’t require a lottery win or a trust fund. With a bit of planning, an open mind, and a sense of adventure, you can explore incredible destinations for less than what you'd spend on a weekend in your hometown. These 15 destinations prove that your dream trip is probably a lot more affordable than you think.

So pack that bag, grab your passport, and hit the road — the world is wide, and your dollar can go a long way.