The best 6 countries in South East Asia to travel on a budget
Travelling on a budget is a style of travelling which has increased in the past years. Going backpacking seems to be one of the number one experiences a person needs to have in her or his life. More and more travellers are packing their bags and leave with little money. Still, they end up having the best time ever. Because you do not need a huge budget to have an amazing time. Especially South East Asia is popular for cheap trips and incredible memories for a small price. But which countries are the best to choose? And which destinations should be on any budget travellers list? This guide shares, which countries are best to travel on a budget in South East Asia and what you cannot miss on your trip around the world.
Why South East Asia is the budget paradise
Most of the countries in South East Asia offer a way cheaper style of travelling, than the Western countries. The types of tourists range from luxury travellers looking for resorts to the backpackers who are willing to sleep on the beach. But South East Asia offers a way for everybody. A whole trip through South East Asia for several months or just a short summer vacation – these countries are the right choice and offer you an incredible experience that won’t cost you much.
One of the many reasons why South East Asia is so cheap is the food. You can find delicious street food places next to the road and taste the traditional meals for a small price. But also accommodation is fairly cheap. You can get a hostel dorm for a few euros and even if you want to stay in a nicer hotel, this is much more affordable than a summer vacation in Europe. The only expensive thing might be the flights. But if you are travelling in between South East Asia, there are always buses offering cheap options.
Malaysia is made for budget travellers
Let’s start the list of the best countries in South East Asia to travel on a budget with Malaysia.
Malaysia is a true budget paradise. The country itself is, compared to other destinations in South East Asia, relatively modern. And still, you can travel Malaysia with small money. Local buses lead you through the country and offer you a cheap way of transportation. Kuala Lumpur, the capital of the country, even has a free bus line and if you want some more luxury you can hire a Grab Car for just a few Ringit.
But the best part about Malaysia being a budget paradise is the food. If you decide to eat local, you can get a meal starting from 1 Euro. Food Markets and food stalls, China Town in KL and small restaurants offer each traveller not only delicious but as well an incredibly cheap meal. In Malaysia, you can get most out of your budget and experience an entire country with your savings. And this is what makes South East Asia so special for budget travelling.
Vietnam as a adventurous destination for small money
One of the cheapest countries to travel to in South East Asia is Vietnam. The country became a huge Backpackers hotspot in the past years and has increased immensely in tourism. The route from North down South is probably one of the most popular routes in Asia to take as a traveller.
If you’re on a tight budget but still want to experience each side of a country and not miss out on the highlights, Vietnam is your choice. The transportation is incredibly cheap and with overnight busses connecting the travel hot spots, you can save a lot of money. Travellers can choose between luxury hotels or simple hostels or home stays offering rooms starting from 2 Euros a night.
Even typical Vietnamese experiences are affordable. For about 80 Euros you can spend on a cruise in the Ha Long Bay or for just 4 Dollars you can rent a motorbike. And you’re ready to explore the endless scenic routes in the North. Plus, Vietnam has it all. From dreamy beaches in the South to the rough mountain roads in the North. There is rarely any other country giving so much variety.
Cambodia: History lesson on a budget
A country less common among tourists is Cambodia. Yet, due to its border to Vietnam, it became more and more popular among the adventurers. Cambodia is one of the cheapest countries to travel to in South East Asia and still, it offers multiple experiences which are far from ordinary. Outstanding is the famous Angkor Wat. The temples are an incredible place to visit and make Cambodia one of the most interesting countries in South East Asia.
Local buses will take you to your destinations and you can spend your nights in cozy local homes or hostels. Even small hotels offer you a room for about 8 Euros. Your main transportation will be the TukTuk – be prepared for an adventure. A ride costs about 0.50 – 6 Euros. Even the hotels on the dreamy islands in the South are cheap and offer you a chance to experience the true paradise with little money.
Myanmar as a secret tip for budget travelling in South East Asia
Have you heard of Myanmar? If the answer is no, it would not be a surprise. Myanmar is one of the less known countries in South East Asia. And still it is about to evolve into a main tourist destination. Yes it really is worth a visit, especially if you are on a tight budget and wish to experience an extraordinary country. As not too many tourists have visited the the country so far, you can enjoy the advance of cheaper prices. And of course, a great service.
Most of the temples and attractions in Myanmar have a pretty small entrance fee. For just 2 Euros you can get a full meal and enjoy the culinary side of the country – ideal for those on a tight budget. Myanmar is therefore not only the right choice for you if you plan to travel cheap, but as well if you are ready for your next adventure in an extraordinary destination!
Indonesia as a travelling hotspot
On a list of the best countries to travel on a budget in South East Asia, Indonesia should never be missing. Even though the country is mainly known for the most popular island Bali, there is a lot more to explore. Especially if you are on a tight budget, the different destinations around Indonesia offer you a cheap trip.
Explore the city of Jakarta or hike the volcanos in Java. For just about 20 Euros you will get a guided tour inside an active volcano. The stays around Indonesia (except Bali) are mostly local homestays. Surely, travellers should not expect much luxury, but still, most of the homes are clean and comfortable. The Nusa Islands are close to Bali and offer budget travellers a much cheaper alternative than the touristy neighbor island. You can rent a scooter for just a few euros a day and most of the attractions have no entry fee. Just expect to pay for the parking.
Another great budget destination in Indonesia is Lombok. The island is mainly known for its wild nature and the amazing surf spots. Rent a board and stay in a small hut near the beach. Of course, you can also book a resort here for quite a good price and escape the budget lifestyle for a while.
Indonesia as well offers you a cheap culinary experience. Have some Nasi Goreng for just a few cents in a local restaurant or get some snacks directly at the beach. You do not need to spend a lot of money to get the full Indonesia experience.
Thailand – explore the islands with small money
Thailand may not be the cheapest country on this list, but still, it is an amazing destination for travellers on a budget. The country is one of the most popular destinations in Asia and more and more tourists from all over the world are fascinated by the beauty of the country. Whether you decide to explore the many islands and get lost in the beach parties and the jungle walks or you decide to experience the city life in Bangkok or Chiang Mai – Thailand is for those who don’t want to spend a lot of money and still have a great time.
There is an endless variety of routes leading through the country and taking visitors to the most popular places. The transportation is pretty cheap due to overnight trains and busses. In the cities you will mainly take a TukTuk for a few Euros. As the country has become one of the main Backpacker hotspots, you have a great choice of cheap but comfortable accommodation. Stay in a small hostel or homestays and experience the Thai culture.
Expect to pay an entrance fee whenever you are visiting a temple. If you are on a strict budget, it is advised to choose between the different attractions. Make sure to visit the most important temples in Bangkok and the main Islands! It’s worth it!
