If the cost has been preventing you from enjoying retirement and seeing the world, dust off that passport because 24/7 Wall St. has curated a list of 15 budget-friendly vacation destinations.
Here is a list of 15 countries across Asia, Europe, and South America, where accommodations, local transportation, food, and sightseeing can cost considerably less than they do in many major Western European or U.S. destinations. With a little planning, you can stretch your vacation money surprisingly far in:
Laos is one of Southeast Asia’s more affordable destinations. The article says a “shoestring traveler can often keep daily expenses in the $20 to $35 range, although tours, nicer hotels, and private transportation will push that higher.”
Cambodia can be inexpensive for travelers who stick with local restaurants, guesthouses, and public or shared transportation, but keep in mind costs add up if you want to see some of the major attractions. For example, an official one-day pass to the Angkor Archaeological Park, which includes access to more than 50 temples, currently costs $37. A three-day pass is $62 and a seven-day pass is only $72.
Although known for its pricey resort islands, Thailand can be remarkably affordable. Street food is one of the best values. The article says travelers using hostels, street food, and local transportation can often get by on $30 to $45 per day.
Indonesia can be more affordable than you think. While Bali’s most popular areas can command premium prices, the article says parts of Java, Sumatra, and Lombok can be much easier on the wallet, with budget travelers averaging in the low $20s per day.
Vietnam delivers a lot for the money. Budget travelers average roughly $25 per day, while a more typical independent traveler spends closer to $65.
India offers an enormous range of destinations and travel styles. The article says traveler-reported data puts typical spending around $40 per person per day, but budget travelers often come in below that.
While Marrakech, Fez, Casablanca, the Atlas Mountains, and Sahara excursions all offer very different experiences and price points, travelers on a budget can typically visit Morocco for less than $50 per day.
From mountains to medieval towns, Romania offers solid value compared to other European cities. Prices are increasing, but budget travelers can experience all it has to offer for around $50 per day.
Georgia remains a particularly strong value for travelers. The article says current traveler-reported spending averages around $40 per person per day, including accommodation, meals, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Albania was once known as Europe’s dirt-cheap beach destination. Prices have climbed in its popular coastal spots, but a savvy spender can visit for about $50 per day.
From archaeological sites to beaches, mountains, deserts, rainforests, and major metropolitan cities, Mexico has something for everyone. If you stay away from the massive beach resorts, the article says budget travelers may be able to keep costs around $50 to $60 per day.
Guatemala offers ancient Maya sites, volcanic landscapes, colonial cities, and relatively modest travel costs, with traveler-reported spending averaging about $60 per person per day.
Known for volcanoes, lakes, Pacific beaches, and colonial cities, Nicaragua is an ideal vacation destination. The article notes that budget travelers using inexpensive accommodation and local transportation may spend around $25 per day, while broader traveler-reported averages are closer to $65. If that sounds too good to be true, consider that Nicaragua’s own tourism authority reported that vacation travelers averaged about $79 per day in 2026.
Colombia remains relatively affordable by international standards if you stay out of Medellín, Bogotá, Cartagena, and resort areas. Traveler-reported spending averages roughly $67 per person per day, including lodging, meals, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Last but not least, Bolivia is one of the strongest pure-budget picks on the list. Traveler-reported spending averages roughly $38 per person per day, with lodging, meals, and local transportation all relatively inexpensive for budget-conscious visitors.
How much do you typically spend on vacation? Message The Seniors Trust on Facebook or X (formerly known as Twitter) and let us know if you would consider visiting one of the budget-friendly vacation destinations available for less than $100 per day.
