If you're hoping to satiate your travel fever without going completely bankrupt, you're in luck! Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank—you can explore the world on a shoestring budget with the right choices. In this guide, we’ll explore the Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit in 2025, ranked from the least cheap to the absolute cheapest. Expect stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious local food—all without emptying your wallet.
How To Choose Budget-Friendly Countries for Vacation
1. Be Aware of Seasons and Destinations
High seasons come with inflated prices. Consider traveling during the shoulder season, when the weather is still good but the crowds and prices are low.
2. Decide Upon Your Dates First
Being flexible helps. Use budget tools like Tracway, Google Flights, or Skyscanner to find affordable tickets across different dates and airports.
3. Be Open to Layovers for Better Rates
Use flight deal apps like Going.com to get alerts on mistake fares and last-minute deals. A longer layover can mean big savings.
4. Use Points and Miles
Make use of travel reward credit cards to redeem flights, hotels, or lounges for free or at discounted rates.
5. Track Fare Alerts
Set up price alerts on Google Flights or Skyscanner to track deals. Some airlines may even refund the difference if prices drop after you book.
Ranked: Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit in 2025
10. Turkey 🇹🇷
Turkey offers a stunning mix of Eastern and Western cultures, from the domes of Istanbul to the rocky landscapes of Cappadocia. The food is rich in flavour, and the historical depth is immense. While some tourist experiences can be pricey, daily expenses remain manageable.
- Daily Budget: $25–40
- Must-Do: Try simit and street kebabs, visit Hagia Sophia, and take a Bosphorus ferry ride.
- Local Tip: Stay in guesthouses or local Airbnbs, and use local minibuses (dolmuş) to cut costs.
9. Mexico 🇲🇽
Mexico is a vibrant destination with diverse landscapes, ranging from pristine beaches to colourful highland towns. Street food culture is a highlight, and even cities like Oaxaca and Tulum offer budget lodging.
- Daily Budget: $20–35
- Must-Do: Explore Chichen Itza, eat tacos in Mexico City, and relax on Pacific or Caribbean beaches.
- Local Tip: Use colectivos (shared vans) for cheap local transport.
8. Egypt 🇪🇬
Home to one of the world's oldest civilisations, Egypt offers majestic ruins and desert landscapes at incredibly low costs. While entrance fees to major pyramids exist, lodging and food remain dirt cheap.
- Daily Budget: $15–30
- Must-Do: Visit the Pyramids of Giza, cruise the Nile, and explore the temples of Luxor.
- Local Tip: Use rideshare apps instead of taxis and eat at family-run eateries.
7. Sri Lanka 🇱🇰
This teardrop-shaped island offers ancient ruins, scenic train rides, and gorgeous beaches—all at a fraction of Western prices. It’s a paradise for budget backpackers and cultural travellers alike.
- Daily Budget: $15–30
- Must-Do: Climb Sigiriya Rock, take the scenic Kandy-Ella train, and chill in Mirissa.
- Local Tip: Use public buses and trains for intercity travel and stick to rice and curry meals for value.
6. Nicaragua 🇳🇮
Nicaragua is an adventure-lover’s dream, known for its volcano hikes, surfing, and laid-back towns. It’s less touristy than Costa Rica, but just as beautiful.
- Daily Budget: $12–25
- Must-Do: Surf in San Juan del Sur, explore León’s cathedrals, and hike Mombacho Volcano.
- Local Tip: Travel by chicken buses and stay in eco-hostels for savings and unique experiences.
5. Cambodia 🇰🇭
Cambodia combines ancient history with tropical bliss. While Angkor Wat is its crown jewel, Cambodia also has quiet beaches, lush jungles, and cheap beer to boot.
- Daily Budget: $10–25
- Must-Do: Sunrise at Angkor Wat, relax on Koh Rong, and explore Phnom Penh’s markets.
- Local Tip: Take night buses between cities to save on both lodging and transport.
4. Bolivia 🇧🇴
Bolivia offers high-altitude adventure, from the Andes to salt flats, all on a tiny budget. It’s rougher around the edges than some neighbours but all the more rewarding.
- Daily Budget: $10–20
- Must-Do: Visit Uyuni Salt Flats, hike Isla del Sol, and explore La Paz’s witches’ market.
- Local Tip: Use local markets for meals and travel with colectivos or public buses.
3. Eastern Europe 🇷🇴 🇧🇬 🇦🇱
Countries like Romania, Bulgaria, and Albania offer that charming old-Europe feel without the Western European prices. You’ll find medieval castles, seaside towns, and alpine trails.
- Daily Budget: $15–25
- Must-Do: Explore Dracula’s Castle in Romania, hike Bulgaria’s Rila Mountains, and relax on Albania’s Ionian coast.
- Local Tip: Use budget train networks and dine in local taverns.
2. India 🇮🇳
India is a treasure chest of culture, cuisine, and colour—and shockingly affordable. From Himalayan trails to palm-lined beaches, the diversity is unmatched.
- Daily Budget: $8–20
- Must-Do: See the Taj Mahal, boat the Ganges, and join a spice tour in Kerala.
- Local Tip: Travel in sleeper class trains and eat at thali joints for best value.
1. Pakistan 🇵🇰 (Cheapest)
Pakistan tops the list with its awe-inspiring mountains, welcoming locals, and ultra-low cost of living. Though less visited, its landscapes rival the best in the world.
- Daily Budget: $6–15
- Must-Do: Trek in Hunza Valley, explore Lahore Fort, and drive the Karakoram Highway.
- Local Tip: Couchsurfing is very popular, and meals from roadside dhabas are both tasty and affordable.
Smart Tips to Save Money While Traveling
1. Travel Light
Avoid checked baggage to save on fees and move freely. Pack versatile, quick-dry clothes and use a carry-on only.
2. Shop Locally
Buy fresh meals from nearby grocery stores or local markets to cut dining costs.
3. Bring Snacks
Keep energy bars, nuts, or trail mix handy—great for long days exploring.
4. Use Airport Lounges
If you have a travel card, lounges can save you money on meals and offer relaxing waits.
5. Rely on Public Transportation
Use metro, trams, and buses instead of taxis. Many cities offer day passes for unlimited rides.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the safest country to travel in 2025?
Iceland is ranked as the safest country for 2025, thanks to its low crime rate, beautiful landscapes, and friendly locals.
What is the safest city in 2025?
Ramapo Town in New York tops the list with exceptionally low crime rates and a high quality of life.
What is the most underrated European country to visit?
Montenegro is a hidden gem with gorgeous coastlines and mountains, offering a less crowded alternative to Croatia.
Is Tokyo or Singapore safer?
Singapore is considered safer due to its extremely low crime rates and high public safety standards.
Final Thoughts
With smart planning and a flexible mindset, travel doesn’t need to be expensive. Use these top 10 destinations to shape your 2025 adventure without overspending. Keep these budget hacks in mind and make the most of every moment—without compromising your wallet or experience.
Bon voyage!
