The best 6 countries in South East Asia to travel on a budget
Travelling on a budget – 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 his or her life. More and more travellers are packing their bags and leaving with little money. Still, they end up having the best time ever. The reason being: travelling and exploring new countries is not limited to a certain budget. Especially the region of 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? Which countries are best to travel on a budget in South East Asia?
In this guide, you will get to know the details and prepare for your next trip.
Malaysia – made for budget travellers
Let´st 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 busses 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 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 – the most adventurous country to travel on a budget in South East Asia
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 a night 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.
The 8 things nobody tells you about travelling Vietnam
Cambodia – travel South East Asia on a budget and explore the history
A country less known 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.
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 Dollars. 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 islands in the South are incredibly cheap and offer you a chance to experience the true paradise with little money.
Cambodia is one of the best countries in South East Asia to travel on a budget and truly needs to be on your list.
Of course, Angkor Wat needs to be on your list for Cambodia. Check out The ultimate guide to Angkor Wat.
Myanmar – 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 – the most diverse country to travel on a budget
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. 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. A 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.
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. For most of the travellers on a budget, Indonesia is the place to go and makes the travel to South East Asia unforgettable.
Check out: How to travel Bali on a budget
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!
Why should you travel South East Asia on a budget?
Most of the countries in South East Asia offer a way cheaper style of travelling, than the Western countries. Of course, 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 route 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.
