Top 9 Countries Where You Can Still Travel for Under $30 a Day

Vietnam

Vietnam is a haven for budget travelers, offering a blend of bustling cities, serene landscapes, and mouth-watering street food. In Hanoi, you can wander through the Old Quarter's labyrinthine streets, where each corner reveals a new culinary delight, from steaming bowls of pho to crispy banh mi sandwiches, often costing just a couple of dollars.

Accommodations are equally affordable, with hostels and guesthouses available for as little as $5 per night. Transportation is a breeze, with local buses and trains connecting major cities at minimal costs.

Don't miss the chance to cruise through the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay or explore the ancient town of Hoi An, both offering experiences that belie their modest price tags.

Laos

Nestled between Thailand and Vietnam, Laos remains one of Southeast Asia's best-kept secrets. The capital, Vientiane, exudes a laid-back charm, with its French colonial architecture and tranquil temples.

For around $10 a day, you can find comfortable accommodations and indulge in local dishes like laap (a spicy meat salad) and sticky rice. Transportation is incredibly affordable, with options ranging from rented bicycles to local buses.

A visit to the Kuang Si Waterfalls near Luang Prabang is a must; the cascading turquoise waters set against lush greenery create a picture-perfect scene, and the entrance fee is just a few dollars.

Bolivia

Bolivia offers a rich tapestry of cultures and landscapes, from the bustling markets of La Paz to the surreal salt flats of Salar de Uyuni. Travelers can find hostel rooms for as little as $6 per night, and meals at local eateries often cost between $2 to $3.

Public transportation is both efficient and economical, with buses connecting even the most remote areas. Exploring the vibrant Witches' Market in La Paz or taking a boat trip on Lake Titicaca provides cultural immersion without straining your budget.

Nepal

Home to the majestic Himalayas, Nepal is a dream destination for trekkers and culture enthusiasts alike. In Kathmandu, budget accommodations are plentiful, with guesthouses offering rooms for around $10 per night.

Local meals, such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), are both hearty and inexpensive, typically costing under $3. While trekking permits and guides can add to expenses, independent travelers can explore many trails affordably.

The serene town of Pokhara serves as a gateway to numerous treks and offers stunning lake views, all accessible on a modest budget.

Cambodia

Cambodia is renowned for its ancient temples, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality. In Siem Reap, the gateway to the Angkor Wat temple complex, budget travelers can find dormitory beds for as low as $3 per night.

Street food stalls offer delicious options like amok (a coconut milk curry) for just a couple of dollars. While the Angkor Archaeological Park requires an entrance fee, many other attractions, such as the bustling markets and riverside promenades, are free to explore.

Transportation within cities is affordable, with tuk-tuks and bicycles being popular choices.

India

India's vastness offers a plethora of experiences for the budget-conscious traveler. In cities like Delhi and Jaipur, you can find guesthouses offering rooms for as little as $5 per night.

Street food is both diverse and inexpensive, with options like samosas and dosas available for under a dollar. Public transportation, including buses and trains, is extremely affordable, allowing you to traverse the country without significant expenses.

Exploring the bustling bazaars, historic forts, and serene temples provides cultural enrichment without a hefty price tag.

Indonesia

Indonesia, with its myriad islands, offers diverse experiences for travelers on a budget. In Bali, you can find hostel accommodations for around $10 per night.

Local warungs (eateries) serve dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice) for just a couple of dollars. Renting a scooter is a popular and affordable way to explore the island's beaches, temples, and rice terraces.

Beyond Bali, islands like Java and Sumatra offer even more affordable options, with rich cultural experiences and natural beauty.

Guatemala

Guatemala is a Central American gem that offers rich cultural experiences and natural beauty at affordable prices. In Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can find hostel beds for around $8 per night.

Local markets offer fresh produce and traditional dishes like pepian (a spicy meat stew) for just a few dollars. Public transportation, including the colorful "chicken buses," is both economical and an adventure in itself.

Exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal or hiking up the Pacaya volcano provides unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank.

Armenia

Armenia, nestled in the Caucasus region, is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty. In the capital, Yerevan, budget accommodations are available for around $10 per night.

Local eateries serve hearty meals like khorovats (Armenian barbecue) for just a few dollars. Public transportation is affordable, with minibusses and metro rides costing less than a dollar.

Visiting ancient monasteries like Geghard or exploring the scenic landscapes of Dilijan National Park offers cultural and natural immersion without a hefty price tag.

Philippines

The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, offers diverse experiences for budget travelers. In cities like Manila, you can find hostel accommodations for around $5 per night.

Street food is abundant and inexpensive, with options like balut (fertilized duck egg) and adobo (marinated meat) available for under a dollar. Public transportation, including jeepneys and tricycles, is both affordable and a cultural experience.

Exploring the pristine beaches of Palawan or the rice terraces of Banaue provides natural beauty without a hefty price tag. Traveling on a budget doesn't mean compromising on experiences.

These nine countries offer rich cultures, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisines—all accessible for under $30 a day. So pack your bags, set your sights on these destinations, and embark on an adventure that proves the best things in life don't have to come with a hefty price tag.

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