Traveling the world on a budget, living out of a backpack, is often thought of as undoable. Sticking to the major tourist hubs around the world can indeed drain you of cash, but when it comes to see the real places full of amazing, life-changing experiences, it often takes you off the beaten path. For backpackers, these lesser known locales have everything you need and more, but for a fraction of the price.
1. Indonesia
No, not all of Indonesia can be visited for cheap, so if you are looking to evade tourism and inflated prices, stay clear of Bali accommodations. Instead, stay in places like Sumba Island or Lombok Island. Both are short trips away from Bali but much cheaper. Plus, these islands have their own unique features to discover. From there, move towards Sumatra, where you can surround yourself with a surreal jungle environment. Food and accommodation are quite cheap, usually totaling around 30.00 USD a day.
2. Malaysia
Due to the growth of tourism in Thailand, Malaysia has been boosted up too. Though you can expect more crowds than some other destinations on this list, Malaysia is still considered a haven for budgeting travelers. If you are into outdoor adventures, head to the Taman Negara rainforest, one of the world’s only untouched rainforests, where you can see mangroves, peat swamps, and thousands of animals. You can also investigate tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands or experience tribal influences in Malaysian Borneo. Simply carry enough money to cover 30.00 USD a day and you will never be short.
3. Nepal
Being that Nepal is considered a backpacker’s daydream, it will probably never not grace a “best backpacking destination” list. With locations like the Garden of Dreams, Mount Everest, and hundreds of excursions for everyone, there is no reason not to go. Recommended budget-friendly destinations in Nepal would be the capital, Birgunj, where Indian aesthetics are abound. If your journey is more spiritual, try Lumbini, where Buddha was born; or Kathmandu, where beds are around 3.00 USD a night.
4. Albania
There is a lot more to Albania than meets the eye. A very distinct fusion of Mediterranean culture, alongside influences from the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Rome, and the Ottoman Empire have transformed the cities into living works of art. Not to mention the plethora of museums in urbanized zones. For outdoorsy people, hike Mount Dajti or along the beaches of the Adriatic Sea. Backpacker hostels are everywhere you go, and at around 15-20.00 USD a night, you can enjoy a lot of what Europe has to offer in one convenient location.
5. Bolivia
South America has an escalating popularity with travelers from around the world, so many locations are also going up in price. Not Bolivia. The exotic landscape of this country is as mesmerizing as the more talked about destinations but with way less crowds and selfie sticks. Although Bolivia is rather sparse in terms of hospitality, if you do not mind stark beauty, check out Isla del Sol, La Paz, and Salar de Uyuni. Expect to find accommodations for as cheap as 5.00 USD a night.
What makes these 5 destinations backpacker friendly is not just the price. It is what you can discover here alone or with a group. These destinations feature rich environments, fascinating cultures, and excursions that definitely give you something to write home about.