Are you dreaming of traveling the world or moving abroad without breaking the bank? Many countries offer an incredibly low cost of living and affordable travel experiences while providing stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a budget traveler, digital nomad, or retiree looking for a low-cost paradise, this list of the 10 cheapest countries in the world will help you plan your next adventure.
1. Vietnam
Why is Vietnam so cheap?
Vietnam is one of the most budget-friendly countries in Southeast Asia, with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation. Whether you want to explore bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City or relax on stunning beaches in Da Nang and Phu Quoc, Vietnam offers a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost of Western countries.
Estimated Budget:
- Daily Budget for Travelers: $25–$40
- Monthly Cost for Expats: $600–$1,200
Cheap Experiences in Vietnam:
- Street Food: Enjoy a bowl of pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) for less than $2.
- Transportation: Motorbike rentals cost around $5 per day.
- Accommodation: Budget hotels start at $10 per night, and rent for a one-bedroom apartment is as low as $300 per month.
2. Thailand
Why is Thailand so cheap?
Thailand is a paradise for budget travelers and digital nomads. With its cheap street food, low-cost accommodation, and breathtaking scenery, it’s easy to live well in Thailand without spending much.
Estimated Budget:
- Daily Budget for Travelers: $30–$50
- Monthly Cost for Expats: $800–$1,500
Cheap Experiences in Thailand:
- Street Food: Pad Thai or Green Curry for just $1–$3.
- Beaches: Free access to stunning locations like Railay Beach and Koh Lanta.
- Accommodation: Guesthouses from $10 per night, and apartments in Chiang Mai for under $400 per month.
3. India
Why is India so cheap?
India has an incredibly low cost of living, making it one of the most budget-friendly countries to visit. From the Himalayas to Goa’s beaches, India offers diverse experiences at an unbeatable price.
Estimated Budget:
- Daily Budget for Travelers: $15–$30
- Monthly Cost for Expats: $500–$1,200
Cheap Experiences in India:
- Food: A full meal costs as little as $1–$3.
- Transport: Long-distance trains and buses are available for under $10.
- Accommodation: Guesthouses for as low as $5 per night, and apartments for $200 per month.
4. Cambodia
Why is Cambodia so cheap?
Cambodia is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia, known for its stunning temples, rich history, and low cost of living.
Estimated Budget:
- Daily Budget for Travelers: $20–$35
- Monthly Cost for Expats: $600–$1,000
Cheap Experiences in Cambodia:
- Angkor Wat Entry: $37 for a full-day pass (a bit pricey, but a must-see).
- Street Food: Meals cost around $2.
- Accommodation: Budget hostels start at $5 per night, and rent is around $300 per month.
5. Nepal
Why is Nepal so cheap?
Nepal is a haven for budget travelers, offering world-class trekking, Buddhist culture, and incredibly low prices.
Estimated Budget:
- Daily Budget for Travelers: $10–$25
- Monthly Cost for Expats: $400–$800
Cheap Experiences in Nepal:
- Trekking Permits: $20 for the Annapurna Circuit.
- Food: Dal Bhat (rice and lentils) for $1–$3.
- Accommodation: Basic lodges for $5 per night, apartments for $150 per month.
6. Laos
Why is Laos so cheap?
Laos is often overlooked, but it’s one of the cheapest and most beautiful countries in Southeast Asia, with lush landscapes, waterfalls, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Estimated Budget:
- Daily Budget for Travelers: $20–$35
- Monthly Cost for Expats: $500–$1,000
Cheap Experiences in Laos:
- Tubes on the Mekong River: $7 for an entire day.
- Street Food: $1–$3 per meal.
- Guesthouses: Start at $8 per night, apartments around $300 per month.
7. Bolivia
Why is Bolivia so cheap?
Bolivia is the cheapest country in South America, with affordable food, transport, and stunning natural beauty, including the famous Uyuni Salt Flats.
Estimated Budget:
- Daily Budget for Travelers: $20–$40
- Monthly Cost for Expats: $700–$1,200
Cheap Experiences in Bolivia:
- Street Food: Salteñas (Bolivian empanadas) for $1.
- Transport: Buses cost around $5 for long distances.
- Accommodation: Hostels for $7 per night, and apartments for around $400 per month.
8. Indonesia
Why is Indonesia so cheap?
Indonesia, especially Bali, is a favorite for budget travelers and digital nomads due to its affordable lifestyle, stunning beaches, and friendly locals.
Estimated Budget:
- Daily Budget for Travelers: $25–$50
- Monthly Cost for Expats: $700–$1,500
Cheap Experiences in Indonesia:
- Food: Nasi Goreng (fried rice) for $1–$3.
- Transport: Renting a scooter for $4 per day.
- Accommodation: Budget guesthouses start at $10 per night, and rent for $350 per month.
9. Philippines
Why is the Philippines so cheap?
The Philippines offers incredible island hopping, friendly locals, and affordable living, making it a top choice for budget travelers.
Estimated Budget:
- Daily Budget for Travelers: $30–$50
- Monthly Cost for Expats: $800–$1,500
Cheap Experiences in the Philippines:
- Island Hopping Tours: $20–$30 per day.
- Street Food: $1–$3 per meal.
- Accommodation: Budget hotels from $15 per night, and apartments for $400 per month.
10. Mexico
Why is Mexico so cheap?
Mexico offers an excellent balance of affordability, culture, and beautiful landscapes, making it a great budget travel destination.
Estimated Budget:
- Daily Budget for Travelers: $30–$50
- Monthly Cost for Expats: $900–$1,500
Cheap Experiences in Mexico:
- Street Tacos: $1 each.
- Public Transport: Buses for $0.50 per ride.
- Accommodation: Budget hotels from $15 per night, and apartments for $500 per month.
Final Thoughts
These 10 countries offer some of the lowest costs of living and travel, making them perfect for budget-conscious travelers and expats. Whether you’re looking for tropical beaches, breathtaking mountains, or vibrant cities, you can experience the world without spending a fortune.
In another related article, Best Places to Visit If You’re Young and Broke
