Cheapest Places In Asia To Travel To

Asia has always been a magnet for budget-conscious travellers, digital nomads, and remote workers looking to stretch their dollars while experiencing incredible cultures and unforgettable adventures. The beauty of Asia is that many destinations can be visited for less than $25 a day, making it possible to travel longer and experience more. Let's explore the most budget-friendly destinations across this diverse continent.

Cheapest places in Asia to travel to

Vietnam

Vietnam consistently ranks among the cheapest countries in Asia, and for good reason. Affordable street food means a bowl of pho or banh mi can cost as little as $2, while some guesthouses and hostels start at $5 per night. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers incredible value without compromising on experience. A typical hostel bed costs about $5-10 a night, and with backpacker budgets around $25 a day and mid-range budgets at $40 a day, you can comfortably explore the country. The French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and world-class caves add layers of culture to your adventure.

Cambodia

Cambodia requires a budget of just $20 to $35 per day for a comfortable stay, with meals costing $3-5 at roadside stands. Beyond the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex, Cambodia offers pristine beaches, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality that rivals destinations costing three times as much. Hostel beds average around $5 per night, with dorm rooms sometimes as little as $2 for larger dorms. You can go island-hopping, explore the Cardamom Mountains, or take a boat ride down the Mekong Delta. Cambodia delivers exceptional value for budget travellers.

Laos

Often overlooked by travellers rushing between Thailand and Vietnam, Laos deserves a spot on your itinerary. Prices are similar to neighbouring countries, with hostel beds averaging about $10 a night and dorm rooms sometimes as little as $2. The country boasts of Southeast Asia's largest waterfall, Buddhist temples, lush rice fields, and beautiful forests that create a feast for the eyes. Daily expenses typically run under $20 to $35, and the country attracts travellers with its jungles, waterfalls, and rustic charm. For those seeking authentic experiences away from tourist crowds, Laos offers exactly that.

Thailand

Thailand remains one of Southeast Asia's most popular destinations, and despite rising popularity, it's still incredibly affordable. Most meals cost around $3-5, and hostel beds are around $5-10, with backpacker budgets at $30 a day and mid-range budgets at $60 a day. The key to maximizing value in Thailand is to stick to northern Thailand, where prices are lower. The south, with its famous beaches and islands, has more developed resorts and luxury hotels, resulting in higher costs. Cities like Chiang Mai offer an excellent quality of life at a fraction of the cost of beach destinations.

Indonesia

With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers endless possibilities for exploration. Indonesia is one of the most affordable countries in Asia, though it's important to know that some islands are cheaper than others, with Bali being one of the most expensive. For digital nomads and remote workers, islands beyond Bali offer excellent value with growing coworking spaces and strong communities. The diversity of cultures, landscapes, and experiences makes Indonesia perfect for long-term stays.

The Philippines

With over 7,000 islands in the country, the Philippines is perfect for beach lovers who enjoy island-hopping. The combination of affordable domestic travel, cheap accommodations, and stunning natural beauty makes the Philippines ideal for extended trips. The English-speaking population also makes it particularly attractive for international remote workers who need to maintain client communications while traveling.

Nepal

Nepal costs on average over 60% less to live in than the USA, with guesthouses starting at just $5 per night. While famous for Everest Base Camp treks, Nepal offers much more for budget travellers. Affordable trekking experiences mean permits and guide costs are significantly cheaper than in places like France or Hawaii, often coming in under $1,000. The ancient temples, vibrant culture of Kathmandu, and stunning Himalayan views create unforgettable experiences without straining your wallet.

India

India is one of the least expensive countries for travel in Asia at $43.47 per day. From the Taj Mahal to Kerala's backwaters, from Himalayan treks to beach parties in Goa, India's diversity is unmatched. For diaspora members visiting family or expats exploring the region, India's extensive rail network and budget accommodation options make it easy to cover vast distances affordably. The food scene alone from street chaat to elaborate thalis, justifies the trip.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka combines beaches, mountains, tea plantations, and ancient ruins in one compact island. Sri Lanka is known for having delicious and cheap food and ranks among the top three cheapest countries in Asia, with an estimated daily budget of $25 to $35. The country's small size means you can experience dramatic landscape changes in just a few hours of travel, maximizing your experiences per day.

Malaysia

Malaysia offers a sweet spot for travellers wanting modern amenities without Western prices, with budget travellers spending around $25 - $50 per day. Unlike its neighbours, Malaysia blends Southeast Asian affordability with excellent infrastructure, making it particularly appealing for digital nomads and remote workers. Malaysian food is consistently ranked among Asia's best, with the fusion of Indian, Chinese, and local Malay flavours creating incredible variety. Street food costs just $2-3 per meal, while hostels and budget guesthouses start around $5-10 per night.

Practical tips for budget travel in Asia

As a traveller in Asia, managing your finances efficiently means more days exploring and fewer worries about running out of funds. Here are strategies that seasoned travellers use:

• Use budget airlines wisely: Airlines like AirAsia, VietJet, and Scoot offer incredible deals across Asia. Booking flights 3-6 months in advance can help secure the lowest prices.

‍

• Embrace public transportation: Taking buses, tuk-tuks, or trains instead of taxis or private cars saves considerable money. You'll also gain authentic local experiences.

‍

• Time your travels: Vacationing during shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) can secure lower overall prices for accommodations and activities.

‍

• Eat like locals do: Street food isn't just cheap, it's often the most authentic and delicious option. A meal from a street vendor costs a fraction of restaurant prices while offering genuine local flavours.

‍

• Stay in hostels or guesthouses: Even if you're past your backpacking years, budget accommodations in Asia are often clean, comfortable, and great places to meet fellow travellers.

‍

• Negotiate respectfully: In many Asian markets, gentle negotiation is expected and appreciated. Always do so with a smile and respect for local customs.

‍

• Avoid tourist traps: Research where locals eat and shop. Apps and local forums can point you toward authentic experiences at local prices.

‍

• Consider longer stays: Many accommodations offer weekly or monthly discounts. If you're remote working, settling in one place for a few weeks can dramatically reduce costs while allowing deeper cultural immersion.

‍

• Use Pesa: Pesa offers a solution specifically designed for travellers and remote workers who need to send money internationally without the hefty costs that banks typically charge. Pesa's low-fee structure means more of your money reaches its intended destination. The platform's user-friendly mobile interface makes it easy to send money from anywhere in Asia

‍

For frequent travellers, every dollar saved on transfer fees is another day of travel, another meal at a local restaurant, or another experience to remember. Pesa understands this and has built a service that works with your travel lifestyle, not against it.

Conclusion

Asia makes up 60% of the world's population and has been the birthplace of many religions, meaning cultural richness and impressive architecture are all around you. This diversity, combined with exceptional value, makes Asia the perfect destination for budget-conscious travellers. Asia rewards those who travel smart. The affordability isn't about cutting corners; it's about authentic experiences, incredible value, and making your travel dreams sustainable for the long term.

So pack your bags, download Pesa for seamless money transfers, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.