With fuel prices hitting the roof and various bills ballooning periodically, it is almost impossible to think about spending money on travel. But wait! What if we tell you that there are countries that will give you a bang for your buck? Yes! We have prepared a list of ten budget-friendly countries that you can visit this year based on the daily cost of living which includes accommodation and food. Flight ticket is the only element that has not been factored in while preparing the list below, as that price is dependent on the country you are flying to and the season you pick for your journey.
The countries have been ranked in descending order, from the most expensive to the least expensive destination, after analysing the data from The Global Economy, Numbeo and Budget Your Trip.
10. Greece
With the longest coastline in Europe, historical sites and some of the best party places, Greece is a treat for all types of travellers. The prices vary as you go from the touristy islands of Mykonos and Santorini, which are more expensive than the lesser-known spots like Kythnos and Hydra. Also, to keep it easy on the wallet, avoid going in the peak summer season.
- Daily average cost: USD 131
- Average cost for accommodation: USD 93
- Average cost for daily meals: USD 34
Book your stay at Grand Hyatt Athens on Booking.com here
9. Portugal
Popular for its wine tours in Porto, pub hopping in Lisbon and castles in Sintra, Portugal has it all for a perfect vacation destination. It is one of the destinations that offer the best value for your money. You can expect to have a reasonably-priced vacation here, as the cost of living isn’t too high in the southwestern European country.
- Daily average cost: USD 116
- Average cost for accommodation: USD 75
- Average cost for daily meals: USD 34
Book your stay at Pestana Lisboa Vintage City Center Suites on Booking.com here
8. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is a destination that is frequented mostly by Americans due to its close proximity to Miami and New York City. This Caribbean nation shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti and is famous for its white sand beaches, lagoons, golf resorts and rainforests.
- Daily average cost: USD 110
- Average cost for accommodation: USD 70
- Average cost for daily meals: USD 30
Book your stay at Punta Rucia Lodge Hotel Boutique & Spa on Booking.com here
7. Mexico
Plan your itinerary for Mexico, as you wouldn’t want to miss out on exploring the rich culture this North American country boasts of. From exploring the ancient ruins and stunning beaches during the day, expect an equally eventful night at the best clubs savouring lip-smacking cuisine.
- Daily average cost: USD 93
- Average cost for accommodation: USD 53
- Average cost for daily meals: USD 20
Book your stay at Círculo Mexicano on Booking.com here
6. Costa Rica
Known as one of the happiest countries in the world, Costa Rica has breathtaking national parks and sandy beaches and offers the best of adventure activities. When you plan your visit to this country in Central America, you can ensure having ‘pura vida’! Pura Vida translates to pure life in Spanish and is a famous greeting in Costa Rica.
- Daily average cost: USD 81
- Average cost for accommodation: USD 41
- Average cost for daily meals: USD 17
Book your stay at Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio on Booking.com here
5. Hungary
One of central Europe’s oldest countries, Hungary is famous for its thermal spas, hot springs, ruin bars and architecture. Cruising on the Danube River that overlooks the Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the best things to experience in Budapest. This budget-friendly country will not disappoint you when it comes to spending your money wisely.
- Daily average cost: USD 70
- Average cost for accommodation: USD 33
- Average cost for daily meals: USD 17
Book your stay at InterContinental Budapest on Booking.com here
4. Thailand
Thailand is blessed with natural beauty — beaches, jungles and mountains. But that’s not all; it also has nightlife and delicious cuisines to offer. And, if you are in Bangkok, then there is never a dull moment. The only flip side to visiting countries in Southeast Asia is the cost of flights, which can be expensive. Other than that, the average spending per day is much less and is easily affordable, making it a budget-friendly country for travellers.
- Daily average cost: USD 52
- Average cost for accommodation: USD 21
- Average cost for daily meals: USD 14
Book your stay at Amari Watergate Bangkok on Booking.com here
3. Indonesia
The largest country in Southeast Asia, Indonesia is also the world’s largest island country, with over 17,000 islands. That’s not all, Indonesia is also famous for volcanoes, beaches, temples and impressive homestays amidst a perfect green scenery. Bali is one of the most popular destinations in Indonesia; however, one should also explore the lesser-known islands of Lombok, Bintan and Penida.
- Daily average cost: USD 47
- Average cost for accommodation: USD 36
- Average cost for daily meals: USD 12
Book your stay at The Royal Purnama on Booking.com here
2. Turkey
Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Turkey has a diverse and rich culture. After a series of devasting earthquakes in February 2023 that affected thousands of lives, the country is open to welcoming travellers again. Your trip to Turkey can help in rebuilding what has been lost in the natural disaster.
- Daily average cost: USD 23
- Average cost for accommodation: USD 13
- Average cost for daily meals: USD 7
Book your stay at Fairmont Quasar Istanbul Hotel on Booking.com here
1. Laos
With more than 4,000 islands and incredible waterfalls, Laos is known as the land of a million elephants. This Southeast Asian country is not only inexpensive but also has a lot to offer in terms of its cuisine for food lovers, jungle treks, climbing and caving for adventure enthusiasts and temples for culturally inclined tourists.
- Daily average cost: USD 15
- Average cost for accommodation: USD 8
- Average cost for daily meals: USD 5
Book your stay at La Seine Hotel on Booking.com here
(Hero and feature image credit: xxoktayxx/Pixabay)
Related: 8 Of The Cheapest Countries To Retire Around The World
A post-graduate in journalism and mass communication, Ayushi is a digital writer who has worked with several Indian media organisations, including Times Internet Limited and Zee Media Corporation Limited, in the news, lifestyle and entertainment space. When she's not on her desk, she can be found dancing, trying new restaurants or packing her bags to explore a new destination.
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