Dreaming of globe-trotting adventures without decimating your bank account? Traveling the world doesn’t have to drain every cent you’ve saved. With careful planning, the right mindset, and a few insider tricks, it’s entirely possible to explore incredible destinations—even on a shoestring budget of $50 a day.
This guide will show you exactly how to travel the world for less than $50 a day. From scoring budget-friendly accommodation to finding affordable dining options, you’ll learn practical tips you can start using today.
Why Budget Travel is Totally Doable
When most people think of traveling, they imagine luxury hotels, expensive airline tickets, and pricy attractions. But budget travel flips this narrative. By focusing on smart decision-making, you can keep costs low while still enjoying fulfilling, memorable experiences.
Plus, traveling on a budget isn’t just a way to save money; it’s an entirely different way to immerse yourself in travel. You’re forced to get creative, connect with locals, and discover hidden gems that typical tourists might miss.
How to Travel the World for Under $50 a Day
Following these tips will make your adventures rewarding and affordable.
1. Be Flexible with Your Travel Plans
Flexibility is a budget traveler’s secret weapon. Here’s why it matters:
- Flight Deals: Find discounted flights by being open to different destinations and travel dates. Use tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Hopper to track fares.
- Off-Peak Travel: Avoid peak travel seasons when flights and accommodations skyrocket in price. Opt for off-peak months to get better deals and enjoy fewer crowds.
- Alternative Routes: Don’t hesitate to take connecting flights or travel by bus or train if it saves money.
Example
Instead of visiting Paris in July when accommodation prices are high, book in November when it’s quieter and hotel rates are cheaper.
2. Travel Light to Save on Fees
Checked baggage fees can eat into your budget fast. Packing light is not only cost-effective but also makes your travels more convenient.
Packing Tips for the Frugal Traveler
- Use a carry-on backpack to skip checked baggage fees.
- Pack versatile clothing that you can layer.
- Bring travel-sized toiletries (refillable bottles make this sustainable and affordable).
- Consider a capsule wardrobe to lessen the amount of clothes.
By focusing on essentials, you’ll simplify your travel experience and always be ready to move on to your next destination. You might also want to check out our blog post: “One-Bag Travel for Digital Nomad Families – Practicality and Presentability”
3. Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodations
Hotels don’t have to be your only option. Explore these cost-saving alternatives:
- Hostels: Perfect for solo travelers. Dorm rooms are affordable and include social perks.
- Homestays or Couchsurfing: Connect with locals who offer free (or very cheap) accommodation through platforms like Couchsurfing.
- House Sitting: Score free stays by watching homes and pets via trusted sites like TrustedHousesitters.
- Camping: Suitable for outdoor lovers. Consider public campgrounds or locations with free camping options.
Pro Tip: Use websites like Booking.com, Airbnb, or Hostelworld to research and compare costs for your destination.
4. Eat Like a Local
Eating out is often one of the largest travel expenses, but with a few adjustments, you can feast on incredible food without breaking the bank, allowing you to travel the world on less than $50 a day.
Money-Saving Food Tips
- Street Food: Often cheaper and tastier than restaurant meals! From taco stands in Mexico to noodle stalls in Thailand, street food is budget-friendly and authentic.
- Cook Your Own Meals: Stock up on groceries and cook in hostel kitchens or your Airbnb.
- Local Markets: Visit local markets for fresh, inexpensive produce and unique snacks.
- Avoid Tourist Traps: Restaurants near major attractions charge premium prices. Walk a few blocks away for better value.
Example
For under $5, you can grab a warm bowl of pho from a street vendor in Vietnam, compared to spending $15 in a tourist-filled café.
5. Look for Free or Low-Cost Activities
You don’t need to splurge on expensive tours or big-ticket attractions. There are countless free and low-cost ways to explore new cities and nature (and the world!) without breaking your budget of $50 a day.
Budget-Friendly Activities
- Walking tours (often tip-based).
- Museums with free days or discounted tickets.
- Hiking trails, parks, and beaches that cost nothing.
- Exploring local neighborhoods or attending free cultural events.
For urban exploration, download offline maps using Google Maps or apps like Maps.me to guide you.
Example
Visiting London? Walk along the vibrant South Bank, explore Borough Market, or catch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace for free.
6. Use Public Transportation
Taxi fares and car rentals can add up quickly. Instead, opt for cheaper transportation methods while traveling to keep your travel budget to $50 a day.
- Cities often have affordable metro systems, buses, or trams.
- Rent bikes to explore efficiently and on the cheap.
- For inter-city travel, look for budget bus or train services like FlixBus or Eurail.
Apps like Moovit or Rome2Rio can help you find reliable and affordable transit options.
7. Leverage Currency Exchange Benefits
Choosing destinations where your home currency is strong can stretch your travel dollars further. Countries in Southeast Asia, Central America, and Eastern Europe are great picks for budget travelers.
Tools & Tips
- Use currency exchange apps like XE to track exchange rates.
- Withdraw cash abroad using banks with no foreign transaction fees.
Example
The cost of a full meal in Thailand is roughly $3–$5, while a comparable meal in New York could cost $15 or more.
Budget Breakdown for $50-a-Day Travel in Key Destinations
1. Asia
Cost of Living: Extremely low, making it the go-to region for budget travelers.
Sample Budget (Daily in USD)
- Accommodation (Hostels/Guesthouses): $10–15
- Food (Street food/local restaurants): $5–10
- Transportation (Public buses, scooters): $2–5
- Attractions/Activities (Temple visits, guided tours): $5–10
- Miscellaneous (Snacks, small souvenirs): $5
Example Destinations:
- Thailand: A pad Thai dish costs just $2! Hostels are available for $8–10 per night, and internal travel (e.g., bus or train) is as low as $1–2.
- Vietnam: Fresh bánh mì sandwiches for under $1, and private rooms in budget hotels for $15 a night. Spend your day exploring stunning landscapes like Ha Long Bay on inexpensive tours.
- Indonesia: Discover Bali’s beaches or hike Mount Bromo without breaking the bank. Scooter rentals for the day cost around $5, and you can feast on local dishes like nasi goreng for under $1.50.
2. Eastern Europe
Cost of Living: Affordable compared to Western Europe, with rich history and scenic beauty.
Sample Budget (Daily in USD)
- Accommodation (Budget hotels/Hostels): $15–20
- Food (Local meals): $5–10
- Transportation (Trains/buses): $3–7
- Attractions/Activities (Walking tours, entrance fees): $5–10
- Miscellaneous (Coffee, tips): $3–5
Example Destinations:
- Romania: Accommodation starts at $12–15 for hostels, local trains cost just a couple of dollars, and traditional dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls) cost under $3 per meal.
- Poland: Pierogi and hearty soups can be enjoyed for under $6, with many cities offering free walking tours. Hostels start at $12 per night.
3. Central and South America
Cost of Living: Very budget-friendly, with opportunities to explore jungles, stunning beaches, and ancient ruins.
Sample Budget (Daily in USD)
- Accommodation (Hostels): $12–18
- Food (Local street vendors/small restaurants): $5–7
- Transportation (Public buses/shuttle buses): $5–12
- Attractions/Activities (National parks, guided tours): $5–10
- Miscellaneous (Local drinks, snacks): $3–5
Example Destinations:
- Guatemala: Visit vibrant markets or Tikal’s Mayan ruins. Basic meals cost $2–4, and budget hostels are as low as $10.
- Bolivia: Explore the surreal Uyuni Salt Flats on a tour starting around $15. Overall, meals average $3–4, making it ideal for resourceful travelers.
4. Africa
Cost of Living: Affordable in selected countries, offering a rich cultural experience.
Sample Budget (Daily in USD)
- Accommodation (Budget hotels/guesthouses): $10–20
- Food (Street/local eateries): $4–8
- Transportation (Local buses/shared taxis): $2–5
- Attractions/Activities (Safari, museums, landmarks): $10–15
- Miscellaneous (Water, small souvenirs): $3–5
Example Destinations:
- Morocco: Savor tajine dishes for about $3–5 and stay in traditional riads (guesthouses) starting at $13.
- Tanzania: Hostels are $15–20 per night, and you can enjoy affordable safari day-trips for around $30–50.
Key Mindset for Budget Travel
The key to traveling on less than $50 a day lies in your mindset. Stay open to adventures, flexible with your plans, and curious about life beyond tourist hotspots. Many budget travelers report that their most meaningful connections and experiences came from stepping outside their comfort zones.
Plan Your Next Adventure
Traveling on a tight budget doesn’t mean sacrificing rich and fulfilling experiences. With the right strategies and tools, you can explore the world sustainably and affordably.
Are you ready to start your next adventure? Begin by pinpointing affordable destinations and building your skills as a savvy traveler. Who knows, you might even discover that traveling with less can make your experiences far richer.