Traveling on a budget doesn’t always mean compromising on experiences, especially when you choose the right destination. Many countries around the world offer incredible travel opportunities where living costs remain remarkably low. For travelers with a budget of $20 a day, these underrated destinations can provide a full experience without draining your wallet. From vibrant cultures to stunning landscapes, these countries allow you to make the most of every dollar, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion. Below are five underrated countries where $20 a day is still enough to explore and enjoy everything they have to offer.
1. Vietnam: A Budget Traveler’s Paradise
Vietnam is often touted as one of the best travel destinations for budget-conscious adventurers. Despite its rapid development and growing tourist appeal, Vietnam has remained an affordable country where travelers can easily stretch their dollar. With a modest budget of $20 a day, you can explore the diverse regions, from bustling cities to serene beaches and charming countryside.
In Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, the cost of living remains low, and the city offers a rich cultural experience. Street food, one of Vietnam’s most iconic aspects, can be found in abundance and at remarkably low prices. A delicious bowl of pho or a banh mi sandwich can cost just a couple of dollars. Exploring the Old Quarter, visiting temples, or taking a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake is free, making it easy to stay on budget.
Traveling to Hoi An or Hue gives you the chance to see Vietnam’s ancient architecture, traditional villages, and riverside landscapes. In these cities, affordable accommodation options, like hostels and guesthouses, make staying within budget even easier. Public transport is inexpensive, and bike rentals are a popular and budget-friendly way to get around.
Down south, Ho Chi Minh City offers an entirely different vibe. Despite its fast-paced growth, it’s still possible to experience the city for less than $20 a day. Whether it’s visiting museums, walking through local markets, or savoring the street food scene, Ho Chi Minh City proves that you don’t need to spend much to have an unforgettable time.
In Vietnam, your budget will stretch far, especially with affordable lodging, local food, and the ease of moving around by local transport. With a little planning and flexibility, Vietnam offers an immersive and exciting adventure at an unbeatable price.
2. Cambodia: A Hidden Gem for Budget Travelers
Cambodia is another Southeast Asian destination that offers a wealth of experiences for budget travelers. Known for the world-famous Angkor Wat, Cambodia offers both historical marvels and stunning natural beauty at a fraction of the cost of more expensive destinations in the region.
Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat, is a prime location for budget travelers. While entrance fees to Angkor Wat can be slightly higher (around $37 for a one-day pass), the surrounding area remains affordable. You can stay in guesthouses and hostels for as low as $10 per night, and local meals can be found for just a few dollars. The bustling night markets, which offer unique handmade crafts and local products, are another way to experience the culture on a budget.
In Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, the cost of living remains surprisingly low. A visit to the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, or the Killing Fields is both insightful and affordable. The city offers a wide range of cheap food options, and staying in budget accommodations is easy. With a mix of historical sites, colonial architecture, and a growing art scene, Phnom Penh provides an enriching experience without exceeding your budget.
For those looking for a more tranquil experience, Sihanoukville and Kep offer beautiful beaches and quiet retreats, perfect for relaxation. Accommodations here can be found at incredibly low prices, and the cost of food and drinks is affordable. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, lounging on the beach, or learning about Cambodia’s history, you’ll find it easy to stick to your $20 per day budget.
3. Indonesia: A Diverse Destination for Every Budget
Indonesia, an archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, is another excellent destination where your money can stretch far. From the cultural heart of Yogyakarta to the paradise beaches of Lombok and Bali, Indonesia offers a wide variety of experiences for the budget-conscious traveler.
In Bali, the most famous island for international travelers, it’s easy to get caught up in the tourist hotspots, but Bali can also be affordable if you venture beyond the luxury resorts. The northern parts of Bali, such as Lovina and Amed, offer much cheaper accommodation and food options. You can stay in modest guesthouses and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of rice terraces, beaches, and waterfalls.
In Yogyakarta, a city known for its traditional Javanese culture, you can explore ancient temples like Borobudur and Prambanan without spending a fortune. The cost of living in Yogyakarta is extremely low, and street food is both delicious and cheap. A plate of nasi goreng (fried rice) or gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce) costs just a couple of dollars, making it easy to enjoy the local cuisine.
The island of Lombok offers an alternative to Bali’s crowds. Lombok is less developed, providing budget-friendly options for accommodations and activities. Hiking Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, can be done at a reasonable cost. The beaches are pristine, and the overall cost of living is much lower than in Bali.
Indonesia, with its vast array of islands and cultures, offers the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation without breaking the bank. If you plan carefully and stay in local guesthouses or hostels, it’s easy to explore this diverse country on $20 a day.
4. Nicaragua: A Central American Secret for Budget Travelers
Nicaragua is one of Central America’s best-kept secrets, offering stunning landscapes, a rich history, and a low cost of living. Nicaragua remains relatively undiscovered compared to its neighbors like Costa Rica, making it an ideal destination for budget travelers.
The capital city, Managua, has all the amenities you need, but it’s in cities like Granada and León where you’ll find the most affordable experiences. Granada, known for its colonial architecture, offers a charming atmosphere with budget-friendly hotels and a wide variety of cheap local food. You can wander around Lake Cocibolca, the largest lake in Central America, or take a boat tour to the nearby islands. A local meal costs less than $5, and accommodations in the area can be found for under $15 per night.
León is another great city for budget travelers. Known for its revolutionary history and vibrant cultural scene, León is home to numerous colonial churches and museums. The cost of food here is extremely affordable, and the city’s budget accommodations cater to backpackers and travelers on a tight budget.
For nature lovers, Nicaragua offers an abundance of outdoor adventures. Volcano boarding on Cerro Negro, surfing in San Juan del Sur, and hiking through lush jungles and waterfalls can all be done without breaking the bank. Nicaragua’s low transportation costs, combined with its affordable accommodations and food, make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation on a budget.
5. Bolivia: Discover a Land of Mystical Landscapes
Bolivia is one of South America’s most fascinating and least expensive countries to visit. The cost of living in Bolivia is incredibly low, and it’s possible to explore the country on a modest budget, with $20 per day being more than enough for an incredible travel experience.
In La Paz, Bolivia’s capital, you’ll find an intriguing blend of modernity and tradition, set against the backdrop of the Andes Mountains. Accommodations in La Paz are cheap, and you can enjoy traditional Bolivian dishes like salteñas or empanadas for just a few dollars. Exploring the city’s markets, such as the Witches’ Market, and walking around Plaza Murillo is free.
One of Bolivia’s most famous attractions is the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat. A tour to the salt flats is affordable, especially if you book with a local agency, and it provides a surreal experience unlike anything else. The Potosí silver mines and the Uyuni train graveyard are also budget-friendly stops, offering incredible opportunities for exploration.
For nature lovers, Bolivia’s Madidi National Park offers a chance to see some of the most biodiverse rainforests in the world. Whether you’re hiking, bird-watching, or exploring the country’s pristine wilderness, Bolivia provides a wealth of natural beauty without the hefty price tag. With a little planning and a spirit of adventure, Bolivia offers an unforgettable experience that won’t break your budget.
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing incredible experiences. Countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Nicaragua, and Bolivia offer beautiful landscapes, rich cultures, and affordable prices that make them perfect for travelers living on $20 a day. Whether you’re looking for bustling city life, historical sites, or natural wonders, these underrated destinations provide the ideal combination of low cost and high value, allowing you to experience more for less. With a bit of planning and the right mindset, you can embark on an unforgettable journey without spending a fortune.