1. Indonesia
Indonesia is one of these incredibly varied destinations I just can’t get enough of. With over 17.000 islands, you could easily spend a lifetime exploring this country alone.
Every island is different and there are more than 300 ethnic groups in the country, each with their own culture and traditions. But you’ll also find lush green forests, picture-perfect beaches, beautiful volcanoes, and much more here. And the best part is that Indonesia is one of the most affordable countries in Asia.
It’s good to know, however, that some islands are cheaper than others. Bali, for example, is one of the most popular – and more expensive – Indonesian islands. Sumatra and Java on the other hand are some of the cheaper ones.
Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $25
Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $1,16
Meal price: Around $3
2. Vietnam
With mesmerizing sights like Ha Long Bay, Ban Gioc Waterfall, the province of Hà Giang and its hills, and many, many more, Vietnam is one of the top destinations in Asia.
This country is known for its delicious food, mesmerizing landscapes, vibrant culture, and some of the most beautiful caves in the world. It’s a place where you’ll be able to visit sacred temples one day, then see the remnants of the Vietnam War and learn more about its history the next.
As Vietnam is also one of the cheapest countries in Asia, it’s the perfect place to head to if you’re looking for an affordable destination with an abundance of places to explore.
Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $25
Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $1,16
Meal price: Around $3
3. Cambodia
When mentioning Cambodia, many people will immediately think about Angkor Wat, the largest and oldest religious monument in the world. Watching the sunrise at this immense temple complex is one of these bucket list travel experiences you can’t miss when you’re visiting this country.
But there’s more to Cambodia than Angkor Wat alone. This country is also the perfect place to explore vibrant cities, go diving, relax at the beach, try delicious food and learn more about culture and history.
Cambodia is cheaper than its neighbors Vietnam and Thailand, making it one of the cheapest destinations in Southeast Asia.
Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $20
Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $2,33
Meal price: Around $2,80
4. Laos
Laos is known for being one of Asia’s most relaxed and laid-back destinations. It’s an authentic country with colorful temples, French colonial architecture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Here, you’ll truly feel as if you were stepping back in time. You’ll get to soak up the country’s rich traditions and savor some of the world’s best food.
From Khone Pabeng, Southeast Asia’s largest waterfall to the city of Luang Prabang with its former royal palaces – Laos is a budget-friendly destination that will astonish you. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a cheap Southeast Asian destination that isn’t packed with tourists.
Prices here are pretty similar to, yet slightly cheaper than in neighboring Cambodia.
Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $17
Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $3,49
Meal price: Around $3,20
5. Myanmar (Burma)
Ah, Myanmar – one of my favourite destinations in the world! This country’s landscapes are filled with temples and gilded pagodas, and the Burmese are some of the most smiling people in the world. From the beautiful temples of Bagan to the mountains and caves of Hpa An, Myanmar is a country that simply doesn’t disappoint.
The thing I love the most about this country is its authenticity. Myanmar has only been opening up to tourists recently and hasn’t much been influenced by the globalised world yet.
Although Myanmar is still very affordable, prices here have increased over the years, especially when it comes to accommodation.
This being said, Myanmar has a turbulent history and as of February 2021, the military has seized control over the country. Massive protests have taken place since then. Because of that, it’s unclear when travelling to Myanmar will be possible again.
Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $25
Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $7
Meal price: Around $3
6. Thailand
Often nicknamed ‘The Land of Smiles’, Thailand may just be the most popular stop along the Southeast Asia backpacking route. This country is known for its glorious beaches, glittering temples, lush green jungle, and delicious cuisine.
It’s a destination that’s easy to travel through and has something to offer to nearly any type of traveller, whether you’re looking for a crazy bucket list adventure, a lazy beach holiday, or an all-in vacation.
Although Thailand remains one of the cheapest Asian countries to visit, the cost of travelling here did increase over the years and the Kingdom is slightly more expensive than its neighbours Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos. It’s also good to know that the north of Thailand is cheaper than the south.
Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $28
Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $7
Meal price: Around $4
7. The Philippines
If diving, snorkelling, and island hopping sound like your kind of holiday, then The Philippines should be on top of your travel bucket list. This country is home to over 7.000 islands full of tropical white-sand beaches, palm trees, and blue lagoons.
And there’s more – swimming in waterfalls, climbing volcanoes, admiring the colonial architecture, and visiting rice terraces are just a few of the other highlights of The Philippines.
This country is a bit more expensive than other Southeast Asian destinations but still very affordable compared to Western countries.
Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $32
Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $3,49
Meal price: Around $5
8. Malaysia
Malaysia is one of the most developed countries in Southeast Asia. It’s also a very diverse destination with towering skyscrapers, countless temples and mosques, stunning nature, beautiful beaches, and amazing wildlife.
Although a lot of visitors will spend most of their time in Kuala Lumpur, the capital, Malaysia has got much more to offer. From scuba diving and jungle trekking to visiting the famous Batu Caves, this country doesn’t lack activities.
On top of that, Malaysia is one of the cheapest Asian countries to visit (unless when it comes to drinking alcohol, which is pretty expensive) and quite contrary to what many people think, Malaysia is Cheaper than Thailand.
Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $25
Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $3,49
Meal price: Around $3
9. Nepal
Beautiful Nepal is another of my favourite countries in the world and also one of these very affordable countries to travel to.
With its vibrant culture, lush green jungles, and stunning Himalaya Mountains, this country has got a lot to offer. If you’re an adventurous type of traveller who also enjoys learning about different cultures, you will LOVE Nepal. Another thing that makes this country wonderful is that the Nepali are renowned for being some of the most friendly and hospitable people in the world – which I can confirm.
When visiting Nepal on a budget, it’s good to know that it is possible to hike and trek in the Himalayas without spending a fortune on a guide. However, this is not recommended for all treks, so it’s advisable to do some research in advance.
Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $20
Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $2,33
Meal price: Around $2,10
10. India
With places like the Taj Mahal, Kashmir and Goa, India is one of the top travel destinations in the world. The country is not only packed with beautiful places, but it also offers a lot of variation. Not every country offers the possibility to combine mountains, deserts, beaches, jungles, and cities in one trip, after all.
One of the things India is best known for is its incredibly rich culture. It was here that Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and other religions were born. So if cultural or spiritual travel is your thing, India should be on top of your list.
When it comes to the cost of travel in India, it’s good to know that the south of the country is slightly more expensive (and touristy) than the north. Still, India is one of the cheapest countries on this list.
Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $18
Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $2
Meal price: Around $2,50
11. Sri Lanka
Often nicknamed ‘The Teardrop of India’, the country island of Sri Lanka is located in the Indian Ocean. It’s a very diverse destination with white sand beaches (like Mirissa on the West Coast or Arugam Bay on the East Coast), stunning national parks (think of Yala or Kumana National Park) and rich culture.
Although Sri Lanka might be small, there’s an incredible amount of things to do in this country. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, adventure seeker, history buff or beach lover, Sri Lanka has got something for you. It’s one of the most affordable exotic destinations out there!
Sri Lanka is a bit more expensive than India, but it’s still a budget-friendly destination where you won’t need to worry about spending too much money.
Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $25
Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $2,33
Meal price: Around $3,20
12. Bangladesh
If you’re looking for a cheap, off-the-beaten-path destination in Asia, then Bangladesh is the place for you. This country, bordering India and Myanmar, is often skipped by tourists, meaning you’ll probably have all the tourist sites to yourself.
Bangladesh has got a lot to offer though. With its numerous archaeological sites, large forests, beautiful beaches, and friendly locals, it’s a destination that will surely surprise you. This country is also home to the world’s longest sea beach – Cox’s Bazar – which is 120 km (74,5 mi) long.
All in all, Bangladesh is one of the cheapest Asian countries to visit and it’s perfect for those that are looking for a more off-the-beaten-path travel destination.
Daily shoestring backpacker budget: $25
Hostel price (1 night): Starting at $3,49
Meal price: Around $1,85
Asian countries to avoid if you’re travelling on a budget
If you’re planning on heading to Asia and don’t want to spend a fortune, there are some countries you will want to avoid. There may be lots of cheap destinations in Asia, but this continent is also home to some of the most expensive cities in the world.
The following are some of the most expensive countries in Asia:
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Japan
- Maldives
- Bhutan
- Macau
- U.A.E.
- China
- Taiwan