Have you always wanted to go on a trip but told yourself “I can’t afford it”? Well, hate to break it to you but you’re wrong.
Would you believe me if I told you that your next overseas trip could just cost you $25 to $40 per day?
If you’re willing to tough it up, stay in hostels, eat like a local and embrace an authentic experience – get ready. We’ve put together the best destinations to travel to that won’t break the bank.
1. Northern Thailand
If you are on a tight budget, the north of Thailand is a good choice. A move south increases accommodation costs by double, triple, and even quadruple. When you are short on time or budget, stay up north. In popular places like Chiang Mai and Pai, you can easily find basic dorms for less than $7. It’s better to stick with street food, not only will it save you money, but you’ll also have a more authentic and delicious experience. It is not really necessary to spend a lot of money to enjoy your day, since most activities, such as visiting the White Temple, hiking, or renting a car with other hostel guests to go on some day trips, are affordable.
$30 per day
Accommodation: $5 to $10 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $6 to $10 per day for a motorbike
Meals: $5 to $15 per day
A fun, creative place like Thailand deserves an equally inspiring flip flop like the Hari Mari Scouts.
2. Cambodia
With just $1000, you can easily spend a month in Cambodia if you rough it. Food, alcohol, and dormitories are all dirt cheap. Sharpen your haggling skills too as you might have to talk your way out of overcharging from Tuk Tuk drivers. Although there are some one-time expenses, such as the $62 Angkor Wat pass, and diving trips, there will also be days when you can ride a bicycle in a small village and eat delicious and cheap meat skewers for just a dollar or two.
Booking.com offers stunning boutique hotels that are mostly new. Even though they are not as cheap as hostels, they are well worth the price! A few nights by the pool would be a great way to relax and unwind.
$30 per day
Accommodation: $5-$15 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $6-$15 per day for a motorbike or an intercity bus ticket
Meals: $5 – $10 per day
For all the outdoor activities in Cambodia, you’ll want a tried and tested flip flop like the Sanuk Land Shark.
3. The Philippines
It can be quite expensive and time-consuming to travel around the Philippines, and hostel options aren’t nearly as plentiful as in other Southeast Asian countries. In spite of these two factors, there are ways to keep your travel costs low in the Philippines. It can still be affordable to travel to the Philippines during shoulder seasons, book your flights and plan your journey in advance (it’s not a place to always wing it! ), and stick to 1-2 regions. Aside from that, the country has some of the most gorgeous islands, beautiful dive sites, and hidden gems you’d have had to pay so much more to see elsewhere. So, you get more value for your money in the Philippines.
$35 per day
Accommodation: $7-$20 per night in a hostel
Transportation:
$10-$15 per day for a motorbike
$15 – $20 for a boat ride from one island to another
Meals: $5 – $15 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast.
Don’t forget to pack a pair of flip flops! The Reef Switchfoot is perfect for exploring the Philippine islands.
4. Malaysia
Malaysia is perceived as being one of the most expensive Southeast Asian countries because it is among the most economically developed. You will have a blast exploring Cameron Highlands, Borneo jungles, and gorgeous islands during my stay in Cameron Highlands. And to top it all off? All of them were affordable. It costs just $15 to take a bus from Kuala Lumpur to the Perhentian Islands, there are so many local neighborhoods and markets you can visit for free, and finally, Malaysian cuisine is like no other – you can find food from almost any culture, and it’s so cheap and delicious – but not necessarily healthy. A PADI scuba diving certificate in Malaysia is also one of the cheapest in the world.
One thing that could make Malaysian travel expensive is alcohol, which is heavily taxed. It won’t be an issue if you don’t drink every night.
$40 per day
Accommodation: $7 – $15 per night in a hostel
Transportation: $5 – $7 per day for train and bus travel, or $15 – $20 overnight on an intercity bus
Meals: $5 – $10 per day
Whether you’re in the city or exploring the terrain of Malaysia, you’ll want a versatile flip flop like the Olukai Ulele.
5. India
There is no doubt that India is one of the cheapest countries to travel to, but only if you are willing to haggle and hunt for deals. Remember that rooms in the $3 range will be very basic, and it’s normal to shower with buckets of heated water. In the north, you won’t find much cheap accommodation, but in the south, you’ll find plenty.
You can travel through India on a budget by booking things yourself. In other words, there will be no agents or online booking sites except for some intercity travel. (Check out 12Go Asia). It is easy to get the same things in person for half the quoted price online if you walk into local guesthouses, restaurants, and tour companies.
$25 per day
Accommodation: $5 – $10 per night in a local guesthouse
Transportation: $1 – $3 for a full day of bus and train rides, or $8 – $30 for an intercity train ride
Meals: $3 – $6 per day
The Feelgoodz flip flops are perfect for exploring India and are sure to match everything you take on your trip!
It’s time to Do Life Right!
What are you waiting for? We hope these destinations inspire the spirit of adventure in you. If you want to add some spice to your routine, say goodbye to the city and hello to the island, let’s go!
Don’t forget to pack appropriately. You won’t need those stuffy business suits or constricting dress shoes. A comfy and stylish pair of flip flops will do.
Check out our flip flop reviews and recommendations here on Flip Flop Daily to find your perfect pair to take along on your island adventures.
