Quick answer: The best value-for-money destinations are Vietnam, India, Mexico, Georgia and Portugal — big experiences on a small budget.
These destinations stretch your money furthest — great food, culture and beauty where a daily budget goes a long way.
The 12 best budget destinations
Vietnam
Cheap food, transport and stays along a varied north-south route.
India
Vast, cheap and endlessly rich — one of the lowest daily costs anywhere.
Mexico
Great value beyond the resorts — cities, beaches and incredible food.
Georgia
Europe’s bargain — cheap wine, mountains and a long visa-free stay.
Portugal
Western Europe’s best value, with cheap food and easy travel.
Thailand
The classic budget trip — beaches, cities and street food.
Indonesia (Bali & beyond)
Affordable villas, food and islands.
Bolivia
South America’s cheapest country — the Salt Flats and Andes.
Albania
The Balkans’ bargain coast and mountains.
Turkey
A weak lira makes Istanbul and the coast excellent value.
Nepal
Cheap trekking and culture in the Himalaya.
Guatemala
Colonial towns, volcanoes and lakes at low cost.
How to choose
Asia (Vietnam, India, Thailand, Nepal, Indonesia) offers the lowest daily costs; Eastern Europe (Georgia, Albania) and Latin America (Mexico, Bolivia, Guatemala) are great value closer to home. Travel slow and eat local to stretch any budget further.