Southeast Asia has long been the holy grail for budget travelers, and for good reason. Where else can you enjoy pristine beaches, ancient temples, world-class food, and warm hospitality—all for a fraction of what you'd spend in Western countries?
Country-by-Country Cost Breakdown
Vietnam
One of the cheapest countries in the region. Daily budget: $25-40 USD
- Accommodation: $5-15 for hostels, $15-30 for budget hotels
- Food: $1-3 for street food, $3-8 for restaurants
- Transport: Overnight buses $10-20, internal flights $30-60
- Highlights: Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, incredible food scene
Thailand
Slightly pricier but excellent infrastructure. Daily budget: $30-50 USD
- Accommodation: $8-20 for hostels, $20-40 for hotels
- Food: $1-4 for street food, $4-10 for restaurants
- Transport: Buses and trains affordable, flights $30-80
- Highlights: Bangkok, islands, northern mountains
Cambodia
Budget-friendly with fewer tourists than neighbors. Daily budget: $25-40 USD
- Accommodation: $4-12 for hostels, $15-25 for hotels
- Food: $1-3 street food, $3-7 restaurants
- Highlights: Angkor Wat (entrance $37 for one day), Phnom Penh
Indonesia (Bali Focus)
Varies wildly by location. Daily budget: $30-60 USD
- Bali is pricier due to tourist infrastructure
- Other islands (Lombok, Flores) are much cheaper
- Java offers great value for cultural sites
Philippines
Island-hopping paradise with moderate costs. Daily budget: $30-45 USD
- Transport between islands adds up
- Budget accommodation widely available
- English widely spoken—easier for beginners
First-Timer Essentials
Visa Basics
- Thailand: 30 days visa-free for most Western passports
- Vietnam: E-visa required ($25, 30 days)
- Cambodia: Visa on arrival ($30)
- Indonesia: 30 days visa-free, extendable
- Philippines: 30 days visa-free
Health Preparation
- Consult a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before departure
- Common recommendations: Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid
- Malaria pills needed for some rural areas
- Bring basic medications—pharmacies exist but language barriers
Money Matters
- ATMs widely available in cities
- Carry backup cards (some ATMs eat cards)
- Cash is king for small purchases
- Notify your bank before traveling
Sample Budget Itinerary: 3 Weeks for $1,500
Excluding flights, here's how $1,500 breaks down:
- Accommodation (21 nights at $15/night average): $315
- Food ($20/day): $420
- Transport (including some flights): $300
- Activities and entrance fees: $250
- Buffer/splurges: $215
This gives you room for a few nicer experiences while maintaining a solid budget baseline.
Common Budget Mistakes
- Moving too fast: Every destination change costs money. Slow down.
- Booking everything online: Walk-in rates at hostels often beat online prices
- Eating in tourist areas: Walk 5 minutes away for 50% lower prices
- Not negotiating: Expected for tuk-tuks, markets, unlisted hotels
- Overplanning activities: The best experiences are often free or cheap