10 Most Budget Friendly Destinations Around the World for Backpackers
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Cruisit Team
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Best Countries for Backpackers from Each Continent
Backpacking allows you to visit a lot of the world on a short budget. You may need to lower your standard of living a little by eating street cuisine and sharing a dorm and bathroom with other people. However, it is an excellent way to explore a variety of locations at a low cost. Not only that, but it forces you to do things you’re not used to, which forces you out of your comfort zone.
People who claim themselves as backpackers accounted for over 30 percent of all travelers in 2002; by 2017, that percentage had plummeted to just over 14 percent. Nonetheless, that is a large number of individuals. Especially when you consider that those resilient travelers are a subset of young people aged 16 to 36 who want to see as much of the globe as they can on a budget that works for them.
“Traveling, experiencing, and
learning are all necessary aspects
of living out of a bag as a backpacker.“
It is entirely up to our fellow travelers to determine what defines a good backpacker-friendly country. Some people like rural locations with a good sum of challenges, while others choose destinations with adequate transportation infrastructure. Some individuals like to travel among groups or with friends and family, but others prefer to trek alone in the wilderness.
Good locations are influenced by the culture, natives we meet, the restaurants we visit, the street food stalls we visit, and maybe friends and family we travel with. It’s a complex blend of factors that cannot be determined by a single individual.
Still, the Top 10 list we’re sharing with you today is one that many backpackers enjoy. Some are newly discovered by the crowd, and some are well known. We considered all of the above as well as extra variables such as culture, gastronomy, serenity, and accessibility while identifying the finest backpacking destinations in the globe.
Top 10 Backpacker-friendly Destinations
1. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is, without a doubt, one of the greatest countries in Asia. It’s a little nation, but it’s plenty with character. Because Sri Lanka is so tiny, getting around is simple and you won’t have to rush. As a result, it is one of the best backpacking places for novices. Drive throughout Sri Lanka in a tuk-tuk or take a well-connected railway line if you’re on a tight budget. Sri Lanka has a lot to offer and is a very diversified country.
There are gorgeous beaches all along the coast, as well as “Little England” in the center, which received its nickname since it is frequently chilly and wet there. Due to the cooler environment, this is where the tea is cultivated. Sri Lanka is one of the most cheap destinations to visit in Asia, and your money will go a long way here, especially when it comes to lodging quality. If you travel slowly, you may get by on as little as $10 per day… incredible, right?
Would you visit?
Have you been there?
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2. Estonia
Estonia’s capital city is an excellent choice for European backpacking. You’ll find reasonably priced lodging and an intriguing culture, and you can easily visit many of the big attractions on foot for free. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the summit of Linnahall for panoramic views of the city and the Baltic Sea.
Estonia is a hidden treasure that is usually overlooked by travelers. It is undoubtedly underrated for what it has to offer.
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This section will be added shortly.
3. Croatia
This picturesque country is a popular backpacking destination, with Dubrovnik (the filming location for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones) and Split being among the most frequented. Croatia, on the other hand, offers several fantastic towns and small cities with beautiful scenery. It’s fairly priced, full of pleasant people, the vistas are spectacular, it’s warm, and it generally has a wonderful vibe.
In general, Croatia is one of Europe’s most inexpensive tourist destinations. It also has some of the most beautiful waterfalls and national parks you’ll ever see. The Plitvice Lakes National Park is breathtaking, and the Krka waterfalls are breathtaking. If you go to the shore, the sea is great for snorkeling, and there are neighboring islands to explore, such as the magnificent Brac Island off the coast of Split.
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This section will be added shortly.
4. Thailand
Thailand has always been a favorite place to travel for many people, and with good reason. Not only does it have beautiful weather, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife, but it’s also a cheap destination to stay and explore for backpackers on a budget. Skip the busy beaches of Koh Phi and Maya Bay in favor of a visit to one of the calmer islands of Koh Lanta or Railay Bay, where you can immerse yourself in Thai culture while enjoying the lovely beaches.
Looking for a place to stay in Koh Lanta?
Backpacker lodging choices
- Hub of Joys Hostel
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5. Colombia
Colombia has revolutionized the world’s opinion of it in recent years, and Buenaventura is no exception. Only a few years ago, this Pacific Coast city was considered the most hazardous in the country, but it’s now an increasingly popular destination that’s on track to be one of the finest backpacking locations in 2022. Though Buenaventura is full of bustling salsa bars, Afro-Colombian seafood restaurants, and waterfront entertainment, the city isn’t the major draw — we’re more interested in the unspoiled beaches, tropical vegetation, and natural pools that surround it!
This location is still relatively unknown in comparison to the rest of the country, so you can enjoy surfing and beachside drinks without the throngs of Colombia’s more popular spots.
Don’t skip a night plunge with brilliant plankton — it’s an unforgettable experience.
Backpacker Options in Colombia
- Pacifico Hostel for a very relaxing and an environmentally friendly stay.
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6. Indonesia
Move over, Bali: this newcomer has surpassed Bali as a #1 backpacking destination for 2020! Nusa Penida is an Indonesian island southeast of the well-known backpacker paradise of Nusa Penida, well known for the curled cliffs and pristine bay of stunning Kelingking Beach. This breathtaking vista is Nusa Penida’s main draw, but there are a plethora of unique experiences to be found on this magnificent island.
On Nusa Penida, every moment is an experience, from attending a devotional session in a holy cave halfway up a mountain to hiking to an abandoned treehouse turned mad vantage point and then swimming with playful gigantic manta rays. With renowned Indonesian sunsets and a plethora of ‘warungs’ selling great local food for pennies, it’s easy to see why Nusa Penida is our favorite destination in 2022.
- Nuansa Penida Hostel does not disappoint as a boutique hostel of the same caliber required for an island paradise.
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7. The Philippines
Another surfer’s paradise, Siargao is The Philippines’ wave-riding capital and one of the most gorgeous islands on the planet. It’s one of the top backpacking places for nature enthusiasts, with gems like waterfalls, lagoons, caverns, forests, and, of course, beautiful beaches.
As with every South East Asian backpacker destination, the nightlife is fantastic, with casual pubs and drink buckets — the Jungle Party on Friday evenings is not to be missed! Our best insider suggestion is to grab a few beers and stroll down to the pier on Cloud 9 beach one evening to watch the sun set over the water as the last few surfers float in. It’s completely magical!
- Mad Monkey hostels are legendary among backpackers.
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8. Iran
Iran should be on your 2022 backpacking itinerary, and Isfahan is our top selection — there’s a reason the old Persian adage refers to it as “half the globe”! Pictures of amazing Iranian architecture have most likely piqued your interest, and Isfahan’s Naqsh-e Jahan Square is a treasure trove.
Your eyes and camera lens will be spoiled for choice with the renowned blue-tiled Imam Mosque, the glittering Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and the regal Ali Qapu Palace all in one area. If you can take being blown away more, the 1,000-year-old Grand Bazaar stands up to its name with elaborately tiled ceilings, lantern-lit passages, and colorful courtyards. Stop for a cup of Persian tea and drink it all up.
- Rag Rug Hostel provides in abundance, giving you the world-famous Iranian friendliness.
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9. Peru
Many visitors to Peru prefer to see the Sacred Valley of the Incas from Pisac, a tiny community with a strong feeling of spirituality, as a rural alternative to the adjacent metropolis of Cusco. This is due to the surrounding valley’s surreal vistas and intriguing history, the bohemian attitude and leisurely pace of life in the Old Town, and the variety of healing activities performed here.
Yoga doesn’t get much more peaceful than this, and after a few days in Pisac, you’ll feel like you’re floating on clouds! Aside from obtaining ultimate zen, other things to do in Pisac include browsing for local products at the Sunday market and strolling around the historic streets of Old Town and climibing the Pisac Ruins.
- Wolf Totem Guesthouse, an eco-friendly bohemian hostel, embodies Pisac's spirit.
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10. Italy
Italy is a country brimming with natural beauty and charm. Oh, and the food is fantastic! Many individuals dream of one day having a little little house in a classic Italian village. Italy will always have a special place in the hearts of many people. From the majestic northern mountain ranges to the historic towns of Rome and Venice, and then to the more arid, heat-filled south, there is something for everyone.
Of all, Italy is a lover’s paradise and one of the world’s most romantic backpacking locations. The narrative of Romeo and Juliet is set in beautiful Verona, Venice, with its famous scenery and cultural legacy, among other things. It’s also a relatively cheap nation, so it’s doable on a budget; although, things do get a lot more expensive in bigger cities.
Other “tourist traps” exist, but if you know what you’re doing, no aspect of Italy needs to be overpriced. It’s an ideal nation for train travel since it’s so well linked, and if you obtain a Eurail pass, you’ll save a lot of money on your train travel (but do that if you are planning on moving a lot of course). Alternatively, you may get in a vehicle and explore the magnificent scenery of Italy’s roadways.
You will be in awe if you drive through the Dolomites and stay in a hotel with views and a romantic setting before crossing into Austria. Make plans to visit Rome, Venice, Milan, Lake Como, Turin, and Verona.
Final Thoughts
Earth’s wonders has surely caught our hearts, now what was it about backpacking that made people love traveling? We think you may have an answer, and if you’re running short on travel ideas before reading this list, let us know which country would you choose to visit now?
Let us know in the comments section below.
