Your 20s are the perfect time to travel the world, explore new cultures, and make unforgettable memories—all without breaking the bank. The good news? There are plenty of destinations where you can live large on a small budget!
Whether you’re backpacking solo, traveling with friends, or just looking for an affordable escape, here are 11 of the best budget-friendly places to visit while you’re young.
1. Thailand 🇹🇭
Thailand is a backpacker’s dream with its stunning beaches, lively cities, and delicious street food—all at super affordable prices!
💰 Average Daily Budget: $25–$40
🏨 Hostels: $5–$15 per night
🍜 Street food: $1–$3 per meal
🚍 Transport: Tuk-tuks, motorbikes, and budget-friendly buses
Budget Tip:
Skip the pricey island resorts—Koh Tao and Koh Lanta offer budget-friendly accommodations with fewer crowds.
2. Vietnam 🇻🇳
Vietnam offers breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and some of the cheapest travel experiences in Asia.
💰 Average Daily Budget: $20–$35
🏨 Hostels: $5–$10 per night
🍲 Street food: $1–$3 per meal
🚂 Transport: Inexpensive overnight trains and buses
Budget Tip:
Take a $5 street food tour in Ho Chi Minh City instead of dining in touristy restaurants—you’ll get an authentic taste of Vietnam for a fraction of the price!
3. Mexico 🇲🇽
From beaches to ancient ruins, Mexico is a budget-friendly paradise with some of the best food in the world.
💰 Average Daily Budget: $30–$50
🏨 Hostels: $10–$20 per night
🌮 Street tacos: $1–$2 each
🚌 Transport: Affordable buses and colectivos
Budget Tip:
Skip Cancún and head to Tulum or Oaxaca for a cheaper, more authentic experience.
4. Portugal 🇵🇹
Portugal is one of Europe’s most affordable countries with breathtaking coastal views, historic cities, and incredible wine.
💰 Average Daily Budget: $40–$60
🏨 Hostels: $15–$25 per night
🥘 Local food: $5–$10 per meal
🚋 Public transport: Cheap metro and trams
Budget Tip:
Visit Porto instead of Lisbon for even lower prices and equally beautiful scenery.
5. Indonesia 🇮🇩
Bali and other parts of Indonesia offer budget-friendly tropical getaways with stunning landscapes and unique culture.
💰 Average Daily Budget: $20–$35
🏨 Hostels: $5–$15 per night
🍍 Local food: $2–$4 per meal
🛵 Transport: Rent a scooter for cheap local travel
Budget Tip:
Stay in Ubud or Canggu for affordable guesthouses and yoga retreats.
6. Guatemala 🇬🇹
For stunning volcanoes, ancient ruins, and rich Mayan culture, Guatemala is one of Central America’s best-kept secrets.
💰 Average Daily Budget: $25–$40
🏨 Hostels: $8–$15 per night
🌮 Street food: $1–$3 per meal
🚍 Transport: Inexpensive “chicken buses”
Budget Tip:
Take a budget-friendly sunrise hike up Acatenango Volcano for an unforgettable view!
7. Romania 🇷🇴
Romania is one of Europe’s most underrated and affordable destinations, offering fairytale castles, beautiful mountains, and vibrant city life.
💰 Average Daily Budget: $30–$50
🏨 Hostels: $10–$20 per night
🍲 Local meals: $5–$8 per meal
🚆 Transport: Cheap trains and buses
Budget Tip:
Explore Transylvania’s castles and old towns instead of pricier Western European destinations.
8. Colombia 🇨🇴
Colombia offers vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and great nightlife at affordable prices.
💰 Average Daily Budget: $25–$45
🏨 Hostels: $8–$20 per night
🥘 Local food: $3–$5 per meal
🚌 Transport: Inexpensive local buses and Uber rides
Budget Tip:
Visit Salento and Medellín instead of pricier tourist hubs like Bogotá.
9. Georgia 🇬🇪
Georgia is one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe, offering incredible food, scenic mountains, and friendly locals.
💰 Average Daily Budget: $20–$40
🏨 Hostels: $5–$15 per night
🍷 Wine and food: $3–$7 per meal
🚕 Transport: Inexpensive public transportation and shared taxis
Budget Tip:
Take advantage of free walking tours in Tbilisi and enjoy cheap but high-quality local wine!
10. The Philippines 🇵🇭
With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is a paradise for budget travelers looking for beautiful beaches and adventure.
💰 Average Daily Budget: $25–$40
🏨 Hostels: $8–$15 per night
🍛 Local food: $2–$4 per meal
🛥 Transport: Cheap ferries and tricycles
Budget Tip:
Visit Siargao or Cebu for affordable beach destinations that aren’t as crowded as Boracay.
11. Bolivia 🇧🇴
Bolivia is one of the most budget-friendly countries in South America, with stunning landscapes and unique cultural experiences.
💰 Average Daily Budget: $20–$35
🏨 Hostels: $5–$15 per night
🍲 Local meals: $2–$4 per meal
🚌 Transport: Cheap long-distance buses
Budget Tip:
Take a $20 tour of the Uyuni Salt Flats instead of an expensive private tour.
Final Thoughts
Traveling in your 20s doesn’t have to be expensive! By choosing budget-friendly destinations, you can experience the world without emptying your bank account.
