Top Budget-Friendly Countries for Travel in 2025

Looking for cheap travel destinations in 2025? Discover the best budget-friendly countries where you can explore culture, food, and nature without spending a fortune.

Who says that you need a lot of money to travel? It’s just a myth that traveling has to be expensive. Even on a low budget, you can plan a trip without compromising on anything, be it food, accommodation, or activities. There are plenty of cheap travel destinations that provide amazing experiences at surprisingly low prices, whether you're planning a spontaneous getaway, want to move somewhere as a digital nomad, or spend summer vacations with your kids.

This guide will explore the top budget-friendly countries you can visit in 2025, what the average costs of food and accommodation will be, and how you can stay connected via eSIM.

How We Chose These Budget Destinations

When curating this list of 2025’s best cheap travel destinations, we prioritized countries not only where people can have fun on a budget but also where travelers from the US, UK, and Canada can enter without the hassle of getting a visa. We also focused on the safety, accessibility, and connectivity. We made sure every location on this list supports fast mobile data and works well with Jetpac or similar eSIM providers.

Top Cheap Travel Destinations by Region (2025)

Here are the top affordable countries you can travel to on a budget in 2025:

Asia

Indonesia

If you’re heading to Indonesia in 2025, we recommend skipping touristy places such as Bali and spending time in Yogyakarta, a city known for its street food, laid-back atmosphere, and proximity to the country’s most iconic temples. You can tour Borobudur at sunrise, explore Prambanan’s Hindu shrines, and take a jeep ride to Mount Merapi for under $40 a day. Yogyakarta also offers affordable guesthouses, student cafes, and batik workshops for travelers looking to experience local life without spending a lot of money.

Travelers from the US, UK, and Canada need a tourist visa to visit Indonesia, which they can get easily on arrival. The internet is reliable in most cities, and the Jetpac Indonesia eSIM keeps you connected without the need to search for a SIM card on arrival. The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to September. Indonesia is an ideal country for backpackers, solo travelers, and anyone who wants to explore culture and enjoy adventurous activities without breaking the bank.

Malaysia

Malaysia is an ideal option for budget travel in 2025. You can almost visit any city in Malaysia on a budget. In Kuala Lumpur, you can see the Petronas Towers, explore bustling food streets like Jalan Alor, and take a quick train to Batu Caves, all in a single day. History lovers can visit Penang, walk through the beautiful George Town, and try the delicious street food. For beach escapes, you can visit Langkawi and don’t miss out on its food markets. Daily costs of traveling around Malaysia can be $35–$50, including comfortable stays and meals.

Citizens of the UK, USA, and Canada can visit Malaysia without a visa for up to 90 days. Malaysia has excellent eSIM coverage, especially in urban areas. You should plan your trip between December and April for ideal weather. Malaysia is a perfect destination for every traveler, whether you’re visiting solo, with family, or as a digital nomad.

Cambodia

Cambodia remains one of the most affordable countries for travelers in 2025. You can get a day pass to Angkor Wat in Siem Reap for just $37, and you can easily get around by tuk-tuk for a few dollars. Besides the historical temples, you can take a cooking class, take a boat ride to Tonlé Sap Lake, and enjoy delicious local food, all on a budget. You should also visit the capital, Phnom Penh, where you’ll find local markets, rooftop bars, and interesting historical sites like the Killing Fields.

You’ll need a visa to travel to Cambodia if you’re a citizen of the US, UK, or Canada. You can either apply for an e-visa a few days in advance or get a visa on arrival. Cambodia has good internet coverage, and eSIM works well in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The best time to visit the country is from November to March. Cambodia suits backpackers, solo travelers, and anyone who wants to make the most of a small budget and explore iconic landmarks.

Middle East & Africa

Morocco

Morocco is one of the most popular cheap travel destinations in North Africa, and there is so much to see and do here on a budget. You can walk through the vibrant souks of Marrakech, sip mint tea on a riad rooftop, or enjoy a relaxing experience at one of the hammams. A day of exploring, eating, and local transport can easily cost under $50. Don’t miss a visit to Chefchaouen (the Blue City) or a camel ride into the Sahara from Merzouga, both of which are unforgettable and surprisingly affordable.

Citizens of the US, UK, and Canada can enter Morocco visa-free for 90 days. Jetpac Morocco eSIM offers good coverage in cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Tangier. The best time to visit Morocco is from March to May or September to November. Morocco is a perfect destination for couples, photographers, and even solo travelers.

Egypt

Egypt is not only known for its ancient sites but also for its affordability. In Cairo, you can visit the pyramids of Giza, take a guided tour of the Egyptian Museum, and eat koshari at a local diner, all for around $40 in a day. You can also get into an affordable sleeper train and travel to Luxor or Aswan for more cultural and historical experiences.

US, UK, and Canadian citizens need a visa to enter the country. You can either get an e-visa or have it on arrival. Cities like Cairo and Luxor have decent 4G, and eSIMs are compatible with local networks. If you want mild weather, you should plan your trip between October and April. Egypt is the ideal destination for history buffs or for everyone who wants a pleasant trip without breaking the bank.

Tanzania

Tanzania can be surprisingly affordable if you plan your trip wisely. You can start your adventurous trip by visiting Moshi or Arusha, where you can book budget trips to nearby coffee farms and waterfalls and even spot animals without booking luxury safaris. Or even if you want a safari experience, look for the group tours and compare prices. You can expect daily costs between $40 and $60, depending on the activities you want to do.

US, UK, and Canadian travelers should apply for an e-Visa, or they can also get it on arrival. The Tanzania eSIM works well in cities and on Zanzibar Island, though rural connectivity can be patchy. The ideal time to visit Tanzania is between June and October for dry, comfortable weather. Tanzania is perfect for solo travelers, adventurous couples, and anyone dreaming of safaris or beaches without the hefty price tag.

Europe

Georgia

Georgia is one of the most budget travel-friendly countries in Europe. Tbilisi is the capital and one of the best cities to visit in the country. Here, you can walk through the colorful Old Town, visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, and take the cable car to Narikala Fortress, all of which fit within a $25–$40 daily budget, including the delicious traditional food.

Citizens from the US, UK, and Canada are exempt from visa requirements, and they can stay up to one year in Georgia. Even in smaller towns in Georgia, Jetpac's eSIM coverage is exceptional. The ideal seasons for travel are spring and fall. For digital nomads and solo travelers, Georgia is a perfect budget destination.

Albania

Albania has become one of the most underrated cheap travel destinations in the Balkans. Tirana, the capital of Albania, is the central hub for connecting with other cities. Tirana is home to vibrant cafes and Bunk'Art museums, and you can also take a scenic cable car ride to the mountaintop. Other than the capital city, you can also explore the historical sites in Butrint and Gjirokastra. Saranda and Ksamil offer breathtaking beaches and a peaceful atmosphere if you’re looking to relax. You can expect to spend about $35 to $50 a day for lodging, meals, and transport.

UK and Canadian citizens can enter Albania visa-free for 90 days, while US citizens can stay up to a year. Albania eSIM works through Europe-wide plans and provides reliable coverage in cities. It’s best to plan your visit between May and October when the weather is pleasant without extreme heat or cold. Albania is ideal for beach lovers, couples, and backpackers looking for a laid-back, low-cost alternative to Italy or Greece.

Central America

Mexico

Mexico is an ideal country for those looking for a beach escape and to learn about history and culture. If you want budget travel in Mexico, skip the touristy Cancun and visit cities like Oaxaca and Mérida, which are famous for their delicious food, vibrant markets, and rich culture. You can visit historical sites like Monte Albán and Uxmal for under $5 and eat delicious local tacos for just $1.

US, UK, and Canadian travelers can stay for up to 180 days visa-free in Mexico. eSIMs work well in most regions, including tourist areas and popular cities. The best time to travel to Mexico is between November and April. Mexico is ideal for couples looking for a budget-friendly honeymoon and digital nomads.

Nicaragua

Nicaragua is a hidden gem in Central America that offers a unique experience without breaking the bank. In the city of Granada, you can stroll through charming pastel-colored streets, kayak on Lake Nicaragua, or take an exciting day trip to the Masaya Volcano. If you enjoy surfing, towns like San Juan del Sur have strong waves and a relaxed beach atmosphere at a fraction of the price of Costa Rica. You can comfortably enjoy your time here for about $30 to $45 a day, which typically covers hostels, meals, and transportation.

There’s no visa required, but a $10 tourist card is issued upon entry for US, UK, and Canadian travelers. You’ll get decent eSIM coverage in cities and tourist hubs. The best time to visit is from November to April for dry, sunny days. Nicaragua is best for surfers, backpackers, and nature lovers who want to enjoy adventure but on a budget.

Budget Comparison Table

Here is the cost breakdown for each country:

Estimated Travel Costs by Trip Length

Below is a breakdown of estimated travel costs for different trip durations. This includes typical expenses for budget travelers, covering accommodation, food, transport, and eSIM connectivity (Jetpac).

Money-Saving Travel Tips

If you want to save money and enjoy your trip on a budget, follow these low-cost travel tips:

Book Flights in Advance

Always book your flights months in advance. This way you can save a lot of money. Set alerts for price reductions and use flight trackers such as Google Flights. Don’t book in peak seasons if you want to travel on a budget.

Use Budget-Friendly Transport

Skip the taxi or shuttle and use local transport to save money. In most of these cheap travel destinations, local transportation is affordable and is safe too.

Eat Like a Local

Skip international food chains and enjoy food from street vendors, markets, and local eateries. Not only will your meals be cheaper, but they’ll usually be more authentic and far tastier than anything in the popular touristy areas.

Travel Off-Season

Avoiding peak months means you’ll pay less for accommodation, flights, and tours. In affordable countries, shoulder seasons (spring and fall) often offer the best weather, good deals, and low prices, making them ideal for those who want to travel on a budget.

Stay Connected with an eSIM

Using a Jetpac eSIM helps avoid costly roaming fees. With instant activation and great coverage, it’s the easiest way to stay online during your trip without breaking the bank.

Smart Packing for Budget Travel

If your goal is budget travel, you should also pack smartly. By packing smartly, it doesn’t mean you won’t pack anything; it means you’ll only keep the items you’re actually going to use, such as mentioned below:

Choose a small backpack or a carry-on suitcase to avoid baggage fees, as most of the cheap airlines have additional costs involved. This also saves you time at airports and gives you more mobility if you're traveling between cities or countries.

Use packing cubes or compression bags to keep your items sorted and make the most of limited space. They’re especially helpful when living out of your bag for several weeks.

Pack clothing in neutral tones so you mix and match without overpacking. Try to pack lightweight layers, a rain jacket, and quick-dry fabrics.

Bring a refillable water bottle to avoid buying bottled water daily, which is great for your budget and the planet. In many affordable countries, clean water stations are available at hotels or public areas.

Don’t forget tech essentials like a universal power adapter and a power bank. Charging can be unreliable during long bus rides or in remote areas.

Get an eSIM in advance so you have instant data access as soon as you land.

Avoiding Travel Scams & Hidden Costs

Even though most places are friendly and safe, it's still advisable to be cautious, particularly when visiting areas where language or cultural barriers might make you an easy target.

Be wary of strangers who are too friendly and offer freebies. These frequently include aggressive money demands or hidden costs that they tell you about later on.

Use offline navigation apps such as Google Maps or Maps.me, particularly in places with spotty service or weak Wi-Fi, so you don’t have to ask random people for directions.

Steer clear of dubious kiosks and airports when exchanging large sums of money. Use ATMs at trusted banks or refer to currency conversion apps to compare rates.

Whether you’re choosing a transport or buying something at a local market, always double-check prices and haggle before making a purchase.

Don't keep your emergency cash in your phone case or main wallet. Keep it in a separate spot. That way, if something does go wrong, you’ll still have some cash on you.

Only choose trusted platforms for accommodation and transport, such as Booking.com, Hostelworld, Airbnb, or Uber.

Real Traveler Stories

Here are some of the travelers who used eSIMs in the past and navigated well throughout their journey.

“During our trip to Mexico, we procured e-SIMs from Airalo. The e-SIMs performed exceptionally well, ensuring consistent connectivity throughout the duration of our trip, with the exception of remote locations. I utilized a new Samsung phone, while my partner used a recent iPhone.” A traveler on Reddit.

“I just came back from Malaysia and also used Jetpac, very affordable. Didn't need too much data, so I got the 3GB too! Previously used some other eSIMs, but so far Jetpac has been reliable, so I will continue testing and updating,” said a traveler from Malaysia.

FAQs

What are the cheapest countries to travel to in 2025?

Cambodia, Nicaragua, Georgia, and Indonesia are among the most affordable, with daily budgets as low as $25–$40.

How can I travel the world on a budget?

Choose budget-friendly countries, travel off-season, stay in hostels or guesthouses, eat local, and use tools like Jetpac eSIM to save on data.

Which destinations offer the best value for money?

Georgia, Albania, and Malaysia offer great experiences at low costs. You get amazing food, comfortable stays, and great experiences all at reasonable prices.

How do I find cheap flights and accommodation?

Use Google Flights or Skyscanner for deals. For stays, check Hostelworld, Booking.com, or Airbnb and book in advance to get good deals.

What is the best time to visit budget-friendly destinations?

Visit during shoulder seasons: spring and fall for Europe and North Africa and November to March for Southeast Asia and Central America.

Is it safe to travel to low-cost countries?

Yes. Just take basic precautions. All cheap travel destinations listed are generally safe and solo traveler-friendly.

How much money do I need for a budget trip?

You’ll need roughly $150 for a week, $300 for two weeks, and $600–$800 for a month in most destinations listed.

Can I use an eSIM while traveling to cheap countries?

Yes. Jetpac eSIM works in all of these destinations, so you can stay connected without local SIM cards or roaming fees.

Which countries are visa-free for budget travelers?

Georgia, Mexico, Malaysia, Morocco, and Albania offer visa-free entry. Others, like Indonesia, Cambodia, Tanzania, and Egypt, have easy eVisas and visa-on-arrival options.

What are the best tips for budget travel?

Some of the best low-cost travel tips include booking in advance, eating and staying local, and avoiding traveling in peak tourist season.

Traveling the world doesn’t have to mean draining your savings. In fact, some of the best experiences come from the places where you spend less but still have a wonderful time. Whether you're traveling solo, backpacking with a friend, or working remotely from a beachside café, tools like Jetpac eSIM make it easier to stay online and connected.