Are you tired of hearing how expensive traveling is? Me too. I’m here to tell you it doesn’t have to be. Over the years, I’ve learned that with a bit of planning, patience, and creativity, you can explore some of the cheapest places to travel without selling a kidney. Whether you’re dreaming of cheap travel destinations in Europe or tropical spots halfway around the world, these tips will help you travel smarter and lighter—without breaking the bank.

Why Budget Travel Isn’t Just About Saving Money

Let me get something off my chest: budget travel isn’t just about pinching pennies. It’s about exploring hidden gems, connecting with locals, and discovering places you might not have found on a luxury itinerary. Some of my favorite memories—like sipping $1 coconut water on a beach in Da Nang, Vietnam—came from trips where I didn’t have much to spend. And honestly, it made the experience so much richer.

So, if you’re ready to embrace the art of budget-friendly adventure, keep reading.

1. Choose the Cheapest Countries to Visit

Not all destinations are created equal when it comes to affordability. Some places stretch your budget much further, allowing you to enjoy luxury-like experiences without spending a fortune. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest countries to visit for backpacking or cheap places to travel as a family, these destinations offer incredible value for money:

Top Budget-Friendly Destinations

• Vietnam: From bustling markets in Hanoi to the serene waters of Da Nang, Vietnam offers delicious street food for less than $2 and stunning landscapes that don’t cost a dime to enjoy.
• Romania: Perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike, Romania boasts Gothic castles, charming villages, and hiking trails in the Carpathian Mountains—all at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe.
• Portugal: One of the most budget-friendly travel destinations in Europe, Portugal delivers breathtaking coastlines, cheap wine, and sunshine nearly year-round. Don’t miss affordable gems like Porto and the Algarve.

💡 Pro Tip: Research destinations where your currency has strong purchasing power. Regions like Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and Central America are rich with cheap places to travel that maximize your travel budget.

2. Explore Cheap Places to Travel by Traveling Off-Season

Ever visited Paris in July? Yeah, don’t. It’s crowded, expensive, and about as romantic as a theme park on a summer weekend. Instead, travel during the shoulder or off-season. Timing is everything when it comes to affordable travel. Visiting popular destinations during their peak season will likely drain your wallet. Instead, plan your trips during the shoulder or off-season, when prices for flights, accommodations, and attractions are significantly lower.

Why Off-Season Travel is a Game-Changer

• Lower Costs: Airfares and accommodations drop significantly outside peak periods.
• Fewer Crowds: Enjoy a more intimate experience without battling hordes of tourists.
• Unique Experiences: Off-season often brings local festivals, seasonal foods, and an authentic vibe.

Best Times for Popular Destinations

• Europe in May Travel Destinations: May is perfect for exploring cheap Europe destinations like Krakow, Budapest, and Lisbon. You’ll enjoy pleasant weather without the summer crowds.
• Thailand in September: Sure, you might get an occasional rain shower, but the savings on accommodations and food make it worth it. Plus, rainy season means lush, green landscapes.
• Mexico in Late Spring: Avoid the holiday rush and scorching summer heat while enjoying affordable rates and vibrant local culture.

💡 Pro Tip: Be flexible with your dates. Tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner allow you to compare prices across a range of dates, helping you pinpoint the cheapest places to travel at the best times.

3. Learn to Love Public Transportation

I used to be intimidated by foreign bus systems—until I realized how much money I could save. For the price of a coffee, you can travel across entire cities in cheap countries to travel like Turkey or Colombia.

In Europe, get a Eurail pass to explore cheap Europe destinations. It’s perfect if you’re planning Europe itineraries on a budget. Bonus: the train rides double as scenic adventures.

4. Pack Your Own Snacks

Picture this: I’m standing in a tiny airport in Costa Rica, starving after a delayed flight, and the only available food is $8 for a sad-looking sandwich. That’s when I swore I’d never travel without snacks again.

Some of my go-to travel snacks:

• (Gluten-free) granola bars
• Trail mix or dried fruit
• Instant noodles for long trips

Trust me, bringing snacks will save you from overpriced airport food and mid-hike hangers.

5. Skip the Hotels

Here’s the truth: hotels are boring. And expensive. Instead, try these options:

• Hostels: No, they’re not all loud party hubs. Many are quiet, cozy, and perfect for meeting other travelers.
• Airbnb: Ideal for families or longer stays—you’ll save money by cooking your own meals.
• House sitting: Sites like TrustedHousesitters let you stay in beautiful homes for free while taking care of someone’s pets.

During my first trip to Budapest, I stayed in a hostel with a rooftop terrace. Every evening, travelers from around the world gathered to watch the sunset while sharing stories about their day. It cost me just $12 a night, but the memories? Priceless. The best part? It was walking distance from the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, where I spent hours soaking for less than $20.

6. Eat Where the Locals Eat

If you want to experience a destination authentically, follow the locals. Ditch the overpriced tourist traps and eat at hole-in-the-wall restaurants or bustling street food markets.

In Mexico, I once had the most incredible tacos from a roadside stall—$1 each, and I still dream about them.

7. Don’t Underestimate Free Activities

Some of the best things in life really are free. Look for free walking tours, local festivals, or outdoor adventures. When visiting the cheapest places to travel, these free options are often the most memorable.

For example:

• Hiking in Romania’s Carpathian Mountains
• Exploring free museums in London on certain days
• Watching the sunset over Lisbon’s Alfama district

8. Find Cheap Travel Destinations with Budget Airlines and Flexible Flight Tools

Airfare is often the biggest expense when planning a trip, but it doesn’t have to be. Sites like Google Flights or Skyscanner are invaluable for finding cheap international travel destinations without breaking the bank. Here’s how to make the most of them:

Tips for Finding Cheap Flights

Set Price Alerts: Tools like Skyscanner let you track fare drops, so you can book flights at the lowest price.

Use Flexible Dates: Search for flights across a range of dates to find the best deal. Flying midweek or during off-peak hours can often save you hundreds.

Filter for Budget Airlines: Airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, or Wizz Air in Europe and AirAsia in Southeast Asia offer unbeatable prices for short-haul flights.

💡 Pro Tip: Always check for hidden fees! Budget airlines might charge extra for carry-on bags, seat selection, or even printing your boarding pass, but the overall cost often still beats major carriers.

On a whim, I found a $30 flight from Barcelona to Budapest. Yes, I had to pay extra for a carry-on bag, but I still saved hundreds compared to flying with a regular carrier. That one spontaneous booking turned into one of my most memorable trips exploring the vibrant streets of Budapest on a budget.

9. Choose Cheap Travel Destinations in Europe

If Europe’s on your bucket list, don’t be discouraged by its reputation for being pricey. Europe might have a reputation for being expensive, but there are plenty of cheap travel destinations across the continent that are perfect for budget-friendly travel. These cheap European destinations are a must for anyone traveling to Europe on a budget:

Budget-Friendly European Destinations

• Bulgaria: Famous for its affordable Black Sea beaches, historic towns like Plovdiv, and cozy mountain resorts.
• Poland: Krakow’s vibrant cultural scene and budget-friendly food make it one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe.
• Hungary: Budapest’s charm and affordability are unmatched. Think thermal baths for under $20 and a hearty goulash dinner for just a few dollars.

💡 Pro Tip: Eastern Europe offers incredible value for travelers. Cities like Sofia, Riga, and Belgrade combine history, culture, and affordability, making them perfect for crafting Europe itineraries on a budget.

10. Be Flexible with Your Plans

I get it—we all love a good plan. But leaving wiggle room for spontaneity can save you money. Planning every minute of your trip can not only limit your spontaneity but also cost you more. By staying flexible, you can take advantage of last-minute deals, local recommendations, or opportunities you didn’t know existed.

Why Flexibility Pays Off

• Spontaneous Adventures Save Money: Peak tourist attractions often come with inflated prices. Instead, ask locals for hidden gems that are both affordable and authentic.
• Discounted Activities: Being open to last-minute tours or off-hour tickets can reduce costs.

When I visited Vietnam, I skipped the pricey guided tours of Halong Bay and instead took a local ferry for a fraction of the cost. The ferry may not have been luxurious, but it gave me a more authentic (and wallet-friendly) experience and I had the emerald waters practically to myself.

💡 Pro Tip: Use apps like HotelTonight to snag last-minute accommodations at discounted rates.

11. Travel Light to Save on Baggage Fees

I’ll admit it: I used to be the person who packed six pairs of shoes for a weekend trip. But airlines don’t care about my indecisiveness—they care about making a fortune on baggage fees. Pack light and stick to carry-on luggage whenever possible.

Packing Tips for Budget Travelers

• Stick to Carry-On: Most budget airlines include one carry-on item for free. Avoid checked baggage fees by packing only the essentials.
• Invest in Multi-Purpose Clothing: Bring items that can be dressed up or down, like a lightweight scarf that doubles as a blanket or a versatile pair of sneakers.
• Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling your clothes saves space and prevents wrinkles, so you can fit more into your carry-on.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re flying budget airlines, weigh your bag before heading to the airport. Many have strict carry-on weight limits, and you’ll avoid paying extra fees by staying within the limit.

12. Embrace Slow Travel

Rushing between cities every other day not only burns you out—it burns through your wallet. Slow down and truly immerse yourself in a place. Staying longer often means discounts on accommodations and a deeper connection to the culture.

13. Budget for the Unexpected

Even in the cheapest countries to visit, unexpected expenses can crop up. Set aside a small budget for surprises—like emergency snacks or an unplanned train ride.

14. Use Travel Rewards and Points

If you’re not already using a travel credit card, start now. Redeem points for flights, hotels, or car rentals—it’s one of the easiest ways to save big.

15. Stay Open-Minded

Sometimes the best adventures come from unexpected detours. While planning helps, leave room for the unknown. You might stumble upon an incredible budget travel destination that wasn’t on your list.

16. Always Remember Why You Travel

Budget travel isn’t just about saving money—it’s about making meaningful memories. Whether it’s backpacking in Colombia, traveling Europe with a Eurail pass, or discovering cheap places to travel outside the US, the journey is always worth it.

Ready to Start Your Budget Adventure?

Now that you’re armed with these tips, it’s time to start planning your next trip. Whether you’re dreaming of the cheapest countries to visit, crafting your Europe itineraries, or searching for cheap travel destinations outside the US, there’s an adventure waiting for you.

What’s your favorite budget travel hack? Share your tips in the comments below—I’d love to hear them!