Southeast Asia is where budget travellers realise just how far their money stretches. Extraordinary food, stunning landscapes, welcoming people — and a full day of travel including accommodation, meals, transport and activities for under $30–$50.
Daily Budget by Country
Getting There: Flights
From Europe, expect £400–£650 return to Bangkok (BKK), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), or Singapore (SIN) — the cheapest entry points. From there, AirAsia, Lion Air, and Scoot connect everywhere else for $20–$80.
Thailand: The Classic First Stop
Bangkok is the heart of backpacker travel — chaotic, electric, and cheap. Street food dinner: $1–2. Tuk-tuk ride: $2. Hostel: $7–12/night. Must-sees: Khao San Road, Chatuchak Market, Wat Pho, Grand Palace.
Vietnam: The Foodie's Paradise
Best explored north to south — Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City. Extraordinary food (pho, banh mi, spring rolls) for under $3 per meal. Ha Long Bay budget cruises from $50/night.
Bali: Budget Paradise (If You Know How)
Skip tourist areas Seminyak/Canggu. Head to Ubud or Amed instead. Rent a scooter ($5/day), eat at local warungs ($2/meal), stay in family guesthouses ($15–25/night with pool).
Cambodia: Worth Every Dollar
Angkor Wat is one of the world's greatest archaeological sites. The $37 day pass is your biggest single expense. Siem Reap is cheap even by Southeast Asian standards — $25–30/day total including a tuk-tuk driver for Angkor.
Top Money-Saving Tips
- Eat where locals eat — street stalls always beat tourist restaurants
- Use overnight buses/trains — saves a night's accommodation
- Book guesthouses locally — walk-in rates often cheaper than online
- Use AirAsia for regional hops
- Get a local SIM — $5–10 for a month of data