Nowadays, many people are willing to travel on a low budget so they can use their money to visit more countries instead of paying extra for comfort, such as staying in luxury hotels or using private transportation. In fact, most travelers now prefer using public transport to save money. Here are 10 of the most affordable countries to visit from the United States that you can consider for your next trip.
1. Laos
- Daily budget: $15–25
- Round-trip airfare: $650–1,050 from the U.S.
Laos is one of Southeast Asia’s best-kept secrets. With serene rivers, ancient temples, and the laid-back town of Luang Prabang, it’s perfect for travelers seeking peace and authenticity. Guesthouses, local eateries, and tuk-tuk rides are all incredibly affordable.
2. Vietnam
- Daily budget: $25–40
- Round-trip airfare: $600–1,200
From Hanoi’s old streets to the lanterns of Hoi An and the beauty of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers big experiences for small budgets. Street food costs under $2, and domestic travel is both easy and cheap.
3. India
- Daily budget: $20–35
- Round-trip airfare: $800–1,200
India is a feast for the senses and the wallet. Visit the Taj Mahal, cruise through Kerala’s backwaters, or trek in the Himalayas. Long-distance trains, budget hotels, and local meals keep travel costs impressively low.
4. Nepal
- Daily budget: $20–30
- Round-trip airfare: $850–1,200
Perfect for trekkers and culture lovers, Nepal offers incredible mountain views, spirituality, and value. You can explore Kathmandu, Pokhara, or even tackle the Annapurna trails while spending less than $30 a day.
5. Albania
- Daily budget: $30–40
- Round-trip airfare: $600–1,000
This underrated European gem combines beaches, mountains, and Mediterranean vibes at a fraction of Western Europe’s prices. Wander the colorful streets of Tirana, explore Berat’s old town, or relax along the Albanian Riviera.
6. Cambodia
- Daily budget: $25–35
- Round-trip airfare: $600–1,000
Home to the magnificent Angkor Wat, Cambodia remains one of the best-value destinations in Asia. Affordable hostels, tasty street food, and cheap transport make it easy to explore Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and coastal getaways.
7. Indonesia
- Daily budget: $30–45
- Round-trip airfare: $700–1,200
Beyond Bali’s tourist spots, explore Java’s temples, Sumatra’s rainforests, or Lombok’s beaches. Domestic flights are inexpensive, and local warungs (eateries) offer delicious meals for under $3.
8. Mexico
- Daily budget: $35–50
- Round-trip airfare: $300–600
Close, convenient, and affordable, Mexico offers everything from beaches to cultural heritage. Explore Oaxaca’s vibrant markets, cenotes in Yucatán, or Mexico City’s street food scene, all while keeping expenses low.
9. Georgia
- Daily budget: $30–40
- Round-trip airfare: $700–1,200
A blend of European charm and Asian warmth, Georgia offers stunning mountain scenery, delicious cuisine, and generous visa-free stays for Americans. Visit Tbilisi’s old town and the vineyards of Kakheti.
10. Thailand
- Daily budget: $25–40
- Round-trip airfare: $700–1,100
Thailand remains a backpacker favorite thanks to its mix of beaches, temples, and flavorful street food. From bustling Bangkok to Chiang Mai’s night markets and Krabi’s islands, it’s an affordable paradise where comfort doesn’t cost much.
Why These Are Great for U.S. Travelers in 2025
- Several sources show the U.S. dollar is relatively strong in many destinations, meaning your money goes further.
- Many of the above countries offer very low daily budgets in terms of accommodation, meals, transport and activities.
- These destinations cover different types of travel (nature/trekking, beach, culture/cities, Europe-on-a-budget).
Things to Watch
- Flights: The cost to get there from the U.S. can vary wildly; sometimes the “cheap destination” still has a high upfront flight cost.
- Visa/entry costs: Check for U.S. citizens if visa or e-visa needed, and how much it costs.
- Seasonality: High season can bump up prices; shoulder/off-peak travel gives better value.
- Accommodation standard: “Budget” may mean very basic lodging; if you want more comfort, budget will go up.
- Safety + infrastructure: Some cheap destinations may have less-developed infrastructure or safety considerations; always research local conditions.
- Local currency fluctuations & inflation: Especially in some countries, costs can change quickly; track real-time data.
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No need to worry about finding the cheapest internet connection when you arrive in your destination country, since most local providers charge higher prices for tourists. With Eskimo eSIM, which offers stable pricing and coverage across all 10 of these countries, you can enjoy internet connection starting from only $1.5/GB, and even get unlimited data plans!
FAQs
What time of year is cheapest to travel to these countries?
For many Asian destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, that period is between May and October when there are fewer crowds. For European destinations like Albania and Georgia, March to May and September to November offer great weather with lower prices.
Do U.S. citizens need a visa for these destinations?
Many of these countries offer visa-free entry or easy electronic visas for U.S. citizens. For example, Thailand, Georgia, and Albania allow Americans to stay without a visa for 30 to 90 days.
How can travelers save even more on accommodation?
To make the budget go further, consider staying in guesthouses, hostels, or homestays instead of hotels.
Are these destinations safe for solo travelers?
Yes. Most of these countries are known for their friendly locals and welcoming backpacker communities.
