Traveling the world doesn’t have to be expensive. With rising flight deals, affordable stays, and low daily costs in many places, you can explore fascinating cultures and landscapes without breaking the bank. Here’s an updated guide to some of the cheapest countries to travel to in 2025, with practical insights and travel tips—including when an International Driving Permit (IDP) might help you save even more on local transport.
1. Laos — Southeast Asia’s Budget Gem
Laos tops many lists as one of the cheapest countries in the world to visit in 2025. Daily costs there are often just $15–$25, including food, local transport, and accommodation. Sightseeing in places like Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and the 4,000 Islands region can be incredibly affordable.
Why Visit:
- Stunning waterfalls, quiet towns, and cheap guesthouses
- Street food and local buses make everyday travel very inexpensive
- Ideal for backpackers and slow travellers
IDP Tip: If you plan to rent a scooter or car to explore more remote areas—especially around Vientiane or the Bolaven Plateau—an IDP is often required alongside your home license. It helps avoid fines and makes insurance easier.
2. Vietnam — Culture, Food & Scenery on a Shoestring
Vietnam continues to be one of the most budget-friendly travel spots. Daily expenses can be as low as $25–$35 for food, guesthouses, and local transport. Highlights like Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Ha Long Bay, and the Mekong Delta are affordable and visually stunning.
Highlights:
- Street food for $1–$2 per meal
- Overnight buses/ trains under $10
- Backpacker-friendly hostels and budget tours
IDP Tip: If you want to ride a motorbike around coastal Vietnam or the highlands, having an IDP plus your valid license helps you drive legally and is often required by rental companies.
3. Cambodia — Ancient Temples & Low Costs
Cambodia is another inexpensive Southeast Asian favourite. From temple tours at Angkor Wat to cheap local food, your money stretches far here. Support services like tuk-tuks and tours are inexpensive too.
Why It’s Cheap:
- Hostels and simple hotels are very affordable
- Street food and local transport are extremely low-cost
- Angkor Wat passes are good investments for multi-day exploration
IDP Tip: Renting a scooter for exploring temples or countryside sites? An IDP (along with your regular license) is essential for legality and insurance coverage.
4. Indonesia — Beyond Bali on a Budget
Indonesia is much more than just Bali, and many lesser-known islands offer outstanding value. Daily budgets of $20–$40 are achievable, especially on islands like Lombok, Java, and Flores.
What to Explore:
- Volcano treks, beaches, temples, and rice terraces
- Affordable local meals and transport
- Lesser crowds and cheaper accommodation outside Bali hotspots
IDP Tip: If you’re island hopping by scooter or car, many rental companies require an IDP. It also helps if you’re planning longer island road trips.
5. Thailand — Classic Budget Travel Destination
Thailand remains a perennial favourite for budget travellers thanks to its cheap food, hostels, and transport. City life in Bangkok or beach time in Krabi can both be inexpensive with the right planning.
Budget Breakdown:
- Street food meals ~$1–$3
- Hostels from ~$10 per night
- Local buses and trains inexpensive
IDP Info: An IDP is strongly recommended if you wish to rent a moped or car, especially in Chiang Mai or southern beach towns.
6. India — Incredible Value Across Diverse Regions
India offers unparalleled value with extremely low daily costs in many areas. From Himalayan treks in the north to beaches in the south, experiences can be tailored for backpackers and budget travellers alike.
Best Spots on a Budget:
- Rajasthan for forts and deserts
- Kerala backwaters
- Goa beaches
- Cheap trains connect most cities
Driving Tip: You can sometimes use an IDP in India if you arrive with it, but most local travel relies on buses, trains, and taxis rather than self-driving.
7. Nepal — Trekking & Culture Affordably
Nepal’s mountains, trails, and spiritual culture attract budget travellers. Guesthouses, teahouses, and local food make trekking routes inexpensive.
Budget Highlights:
- Low-cost guesthouses
- Trekking meals and permits are modestly priced
- Close proximity to India makes overland travel easy
IDP Note: If you plan to rent a vehicle for a road trip around Pokhara or the Kathmandu Valley, an IDP is helpful for legality and insurance.
8. Georgia — Cheap Europe Experience
Georgia in the Caucasus offers affordable travel in a European-meets-Asian setting. With low prices for food, accommodation, and wine, this country is a hidden value gem.
Why Georgia:
- Cheap local taverns and wine
- Scenic mountains and Tbilisi’s old town
- Budget guesthouses and tours
IDP Planning: Renting a car to explore wine regions and mountain roads is a popular option — and an IDP makes the rental process smoother and legally compliant.
Tips to Travel Cheap Anywhere
✈ Book Early & Use Flight Deals
Look out for seasonal sales that can significantly cut your travel costs.
✈ Use Public Transport & Local Meals
Eat where locals eat and use buses or trains instead of taxis.
🛞 Consider an IDP for Cost Savings
If you want the freedom to explore independently, an International Driving Permit (IDP) can help you rent cars or scooters legally in many of these countries and save on tour costs and taxis.
Final Thought
Travel on a budget in 2025 is more accessible than ever — from Southeast Asia’s hidden gems like Laos and Cambodia to backpacker favourites like Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand. With smart planning, savvy travel choices, and tools like an IDP where needed, you can explore amazing destinations without spending a fortune.
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