Cheapest Countries to Travel in 2026 + How Much They Really Cost

1. Vietnam – cheap travel in Asia

Vietnam is probably the cheapest choice for budget travelers. Food, transport, and accommodation are super affordable there. You can eat street food for just a few dollars and take buses or trains across the country for next to nothing. Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh feel safe and easy to get around.

Good for: backpackers, solo travelers, food

**Approximate prices: **

-Transport: $5–$15 (buses/trains)

-Hostels: $5–$15 per night

-Budget hotels: $15–$30 per night

-Meals: $1–$3 (street food), $5–$10 (cafes/restaurants)

Best sights and activities:

Ha Long Bay cruise and limestone cliffs

-Explore Old Quarter in Hanoi

-Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City

-Hoi An Ancient Town and lantern-lit streets

-Mekong Delta river tours and floating markets

2. Mexico – budget-friendly trips in North America

Mexico is loved by travelers for its beaches, culture, and history, all without the high prices. Hostels, local markets, and buses also keep costs low. Cities like Oaxaca and Mexico City let you explore museums, food markets, and nightlife without spending a fortune.

Good for: cultural trips, beach lovers, long stays

Approximate prices:

-Transport: $0.50–$3 (metro/buses)

-Hostels: $10–$25 per night

-Budget hotels: $25–$50 per night

-Meals: $2–$7

Best sights and activities:

-Explore ancient ruins like Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan

-Beaches in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum

-Visit Mexico City’s Frida Kahlo Museum and historic center

-Taste local food at Oaxaca markets

-Hike volcanoes or explore cenotes (natural swimming holes)

3. Portugal – affordable Europe travel

Portugal is one of the cheapest countries in Europe. Lisbon and Porto are easy to explore on a budget. Public transport is cheap, hostels are inexpensive, and meals in local cafes won’t drain your wallet. Even wine tasting is surprisingly affordable.

Good for: city trips, solo travel, long weekend trips

Approximate prices:

-Transport: $1.50–$3 per ride

-Hostels: $15–$30 per night

-Budget hotels: $40–$60 per night

-Meals: $5–$12, wine tasting $5–$10

**Best sights and activities: **

-Walk through Alfama district and explore Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods

-Ribeira district and Dom Luís I Bridge in Porto

-Visit Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery

-Explore Sintra’s palaces and castles on a budget-friendly day trip

-Taste local pastries like Pastel de Nata

4. Indonesia – cheap islands and beaches

Indonesia is also often chosen by travelers on a budget. Bali and Java have hostels, local food, and transport options for very low prices. You can visit temples, beaches, and local markets without spending much.

Good for: backpackers, adventure travel, beach lovers

Approximate prices:

-Transport: $1–$10 (buses/scooters)

-Hostels: $5–$20 per night

Budget hotels: $20–$40 per night

-Meals: $1–$5

**Best sights and activities: **

-Temples: Borobudur and Prambanan in Java

-Beaches: Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Penida in Bali

-Trekking Mount Bromo or Mount Rinjani

-Explore Ubud’s rice terraces and monkey forest

-Snorkeling or diving in the Gili Islands

5. Georgia – low-cost travel in the Caucasus Mountains

Georgia is currently gaining attention for budget travel. Tbilisi has affordable guesthouses, cheap public transport, and amazing local food. Mountains, wine regions, and history are easy to access without spending much.

Good for: culture trips, solo travel, adventure trips

**Approximate prices: **

-Transport: $5–$15 (buses/trains)

Hostels: $5–$15 per night

-Budget hotels: $15–$30 per night

-Meals: $1–$3 (street food), $5–$10 (cafes/restaurants)

Best sights and activities:

-Explore Tbilisi’s Old Town and sulfur baths

-Visit wine regions in Kakheti and try traditional Georgian wine

-Hike in the Caucasus Mountains

-Discover ancient monasteries like Gergeti Trinity Church

-Explore cave towns and ancient settlements in Uplistsikhe

Find a Local Guide

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean missing out. Countries like Vietnam, Mexico, Portugal, Indonesia, and Georgia give you the best experiences for the lowest prices. To make your trip even easier, consider exploring with a local guide. Private guides can both customize your tour according to your interests and help you find affordable transport, safe areas, and practical tips that most tourists miss.

Download FindGuide to connect with trusted local guides around the world. Plan smarter, travel safer, and get the most out of your 2026 trips without overspending.