Inevitably, at the beginning of every year, as people start thinking about their vacations, I am asked, “What are the cheapest countries to travel to?”

This list does not take into consideration the cost of flights, which is expected to stay high. Some countries cost more to get to and are only cost-effective if you can stay for a few weeks or longer.

My list is based on the average cost of food, accommodations, domestic transit, etc., once you reach your destination. Inflation is also a variable in this fickle global economy.

One thing sure to save you extra money is to avoid peak season and instead travel during the shoulder season, which varies depending on what part of the world you’re traveling to.

We’ve also provided an estimate of the currency exchange referenced to the US dollar, which, of course, could and will fluctuate, so please be sure to check on the latest rates when planning your trip.

I’m not going to give an average hotel cost or average daily meal cost because there’s too much diversity in how people like to travel and/or budget.

Of course, the most inexpensive way to travel will always be self-guided, but even if you decide you’d rather visit with a tour company, these countries will be far less than most others you might visit with a guided tour.

Also, other destinations could have made this list of the cheapest countries, including but not limited to Bulgaria, Laos, and others, but I have not personally visited those (yet).

Here are my picks for some of the cheapest countries to travel to this year.

NORTH AMERICA

Mexico

1 USD = 17.9 MXN

America’s neighbor, Mexico, should be on all Americans’ lists of the cheapest countries to travel to. It’s easy to get to, budget-friendly, and has a plethora of natural beauty. It boasts world-class charming beach towns, vibrant culture, delicious street food, and more.

Even though flights are expected to remain pricey in 2024, Mexico should continue to have affordable airfare.

I made my first trip to Mexico when I was 24, and I loved it so much that I’ve been going back ever since. Writing about all the fabulous things to do there has been a delight, and I was named one of the top 5 bloggers about Mexico.

Where to go: beaches on the Caribbean and Pacific Coasts, Mayan Ruins, Cenotes, and Pueblo Magico (magic towns).

Click here to learn more about places to visit in Mexico.

SOUTH AMERICA

Peru

1 USD = 3.4 SOL

Peru is one of the cheapest places in South America, with something for everyone. While I did choose to travel in a more upscale manner with AdventureSmith Explorations (which was phenomenal!), there were certainly cheaper accommodations available. Articles about this fabulous trip appear below.

World-renowned, the Inca Trail is fascinating, but even if you prefer not to hike, you can still visit the incredible Machu Picchu, listed among my jaw-dropping places to visit once in a lifetime.

Where to go: Machu Picchu, Cusco, Inca Trail, Sacred Valley, Lima, Amazon River Cruise, Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, Lake Titicaca

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Ecuador

Uses the USD

Ecuador is a diverse country on the equator in northwestern South America. It is known for its dramatic landscapes, from the Amazon rainforest and Andean highlands to the Pacific beaches and the unique Galápagos Islands. Ecuador’s culture reflects strong Indigenous, Spanish, and African influences seen in its food, music, and festivals.

The capital city, Quito, sits high in the Andes and is one of the world’s best-preserved historic centers, featuring colonial churches, plazas, and narrow streets. It has the distinction of being the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Cuenca, another major city, is known for its old-world charm, elegant architecture, rivers, and thriving arts scene.

Where to go: Cuenca, Quito, Amazon Rainforest, Galapagos, Banos, Mindo, Otavalo

EUROPE

Romania

1 USD = 4.4 RON

One of Eastern Europe’s best-kept secrets, Romania is a delight to explore. From the Dracula-inspired Transylvania region with its gorgeous medieval towns, ancient fortified churches, Transfagarasan Mountain Road, and outdoor activities in the Carpathian Mountains, to beautiful cities like Bucharest, which was called “Little Paris,” Romania will not disappoint.

I traveled through Romania with JayWay Travel’s multi-city Romania tour and highly recommend it! The tour also included the country of Moldova.

Where to go: Transylvania, Bucharest

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Turkiye

1 USD = 43.1 TRY

While Turkey is one of the most visited countries in the world, it is still an underestimated destination to Americans.

Located in both Europe and Asia and once home to the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, Turkey is a melting pot of cultures that can be seen in everything from architecture to cuisine.

There’s so much to see and do in Turkey, from sprawling urban cities, Roman ruins, fascinating bazaars, cave cities, and Mediterranean beaches.

It’s worth noting that Cappadocia has one of the most surreal landscapes, is the most magical place on earth. It’s magical!

We rented a car and traveled through Turkiye on our own, but if you prefer to visit with a tour, I recommend JayWay Travel’s Turkey Tours.

Where to go: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Turkish Riviera

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Albania

1 USD = 83 ALL

People are genuinely shocked when I tell them that Albania is one of my favorite countries in Europe. Indeed, it is often referred to as “the next Croatia.”

While Albania is a lot less expensive than other European countries, it does not lack natural beauty as seen in its beyond-gorgeous beaches and impressive mountains, rich culture, castles, fascinating Ottoman history, and a quirky capital.

There’s also the food… Depending on what part of the country you are in, you’ll find the most delectable seafood or lamb anywhere in the world, and at prices that will blow your mind.

I also found Albania to be the most welcoming of ANY country I’ve visited. They LOVE Americans!

While I love doing self-guided road trips, the infrastructure in Albania is not great. I did my Albania tour with JayWay Travel, an amazing boutique travel tour group, and loved it! The tour also included Macedonia.

Where to go: Albanian Riviera, Butrint, Gjirokaster, Kruje, Tirana

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ASIA

Thailand

1 USD = 31.4 THB

Known by the nickname “Land of Smiles,” no nation better lives up to that name. It’s no wonder that Thailand is the most visited country in Southeast Asia.

While Bangkok is the most popular tourist destination there are also idyllic beaches, jungle temples, and rice fields to consider. Buddha statues, delicious restaurants, and vibrant street markets await visitors.

Where to go: Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Chang Mai, Chiang Rai

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Vietnam

1 USD = 26,270 VND

Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country squeezed in between the South China Sea and the Laos and Cambodia borders. It’s a land known for its blissful beaches, lush rice terraces, fertile delta and rivers, endless cave systems, Buddhist pagodas, mouth-watering cuisine, and a combination of ancient and dizzying cities.

Add to that the friendly people, exotic street food, and extreme affordability, and it’s no surprise that the country is seeing a rise in tourism.

Where to go: Hanoi, Saigon, Hoi An, Halong Bay, Da Nang, Mekong River

You may be interested in:

10 Most Beautiful Places in Vietnam

Cambodia

1 USD = 4019 KHR

Officially the Kingdom of Cambodia, this country, located in the southern part of the Indochinese Peninsula, has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has a rich but sometimes troubled past. It’s a diverse and fascinating country, and the splendid landmarks in Cambodia cover a wide swath of tourism interests.

One of the cheapest countries to visit, Cambodia is the fusion of tourist hotspots and off-the-beaten-path destinations, offered in one easy-to-manage bundle. As it slowly recovers from the Khmer Rouge’s reign of terror, Cambodia is becoming a rising tourist destination due to its rich culture, complex history, and natural grandeur.

Cambodia is filled with small towns and tribal villages that offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life. Adventurers and history buffs will jump at the chance to trek into the jungle and explore mysterious and unrivaled ancient Khmer temples.

Where to go: Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Mekong Delta, Tonle Lake

You may be interested in:

10 Cambodia Landmarks You Can’t Miss

AFRICA

Morocco

1 USD = 9.2 MAD

Morocco is just a stone’s throw from southern Europe and remains one of the cheapest countries to travel to. The frenzied cities with hawking merchants are fascinating, but there are also the natural wonders of the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains to explore.

Try to stay in one of the iconic riads – traditional Moroccan hotels with tiled and lush garden courtyards.

Where to go: Chefchaouen, Marrakesh, Fez, Casablanca, Sahara Desert, Essaouira, Atlas Mountains

You may be interested in:

10 Best Cities in Morocco to Visit

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About the Author

Patti Morrow is a freelance travel writer and founder of the award-winning international blog Luggage and Lipstick and the southern travel blog Gone to Carolinas. TripAdvisor called her one of the “20 Baby Boomer Travel Bloggers Having More Fun Than Millennials” and she was named one of the “Top 35 Travel Blogs” in the world.

She is also the star of the upcoming TV series “Destination Takeover” which is scheduled to premiere in the near future.

Patti is the author of the book “Girls Go Solo: Tips for Women Traveling Alone,” and has over 150 bylines in 40 print and online publications, including The Huffington Post, International Living Magazine, Washington Post Sunday Travel, Travel Girl, Travel Play Live Magazine, and Ladies Home Journal. She has traveled extensively through six continents looking for fabulous destinations, exotic beaches, and adventure activities for her Baby Boomer tribe.

2 comments

Comment by David Cronk

David Cronk Reply January 20, 2024 at 6:05 am
In Asia, Vietnam is considerably cheaper than Thailand. Of course the cheapest of all is Myanmar which at the moment you probably shouldn’t travel to. Laos is another cheaper country but in my opinion Vietnam is the cheapest.

Comment by luggageandlipstick

luggageandlipstick Reply January 20, 2024 at 9:43 am
I agree with everything you said. Vietnam is wonderful and cheaper than Thailand, but people looking for a beach vacation would prefer Thailand. I haven’t been to Laos but it looks great as well. As for Myanmar, I would love to go — Bagan is a bucket list for me. I’ve looked at going there countless times but have always ruled it out due to the current situation there. Someday!