Global inflation is a real thing and it impacts everything with travel being one of them. It has made traditional backpacking destinations more expensive with travellers having to fork out more cash to make their trips worthwhile. That’s why you see many travellers looking for the most budget-friendly travel locations, so they can get the most out of spending less.
Spending around €30 a day when you’re away is ideal, but this isn’t possible in certain locations. You can no longer do this in Western Europe, North America or Japan, as these are all seen as very expensive locations to visit. However, your money still stretches far in parts of Asia and Latin America, so you can still get a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
In this guide, we will explore how you can successfully spend only €30 a day while travelling the world and the best places to do this. Continue reading to find out more.
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€30 a Day Locations
Vietnam
Often touted to be the best destination for backpackers who want to keep within budget. Even if you’ve only got €30 to your name each day, you will have the chance to do many different activities while keeping yourself well fed and hydrated. This amount converts to roughly 800,000 VND and covers basic essentials if you make careful choices. You can stay in shared dorm rooms in hostels or basic for around €5. There’s also very cheap meals you can eat throughout the day for €1 or €2, so you’ve got a lot left for activities.
Indonesia
You will need to adopt a strict shoestring budget mindset if you’re going to travel Indonesia on the cheap, but it can definitely be done if you have good planning. In Indonesia, €30 is worth roughly 510,000 IDR, which goes a very long way if you stick to local options. However, you’ll find that your money goes quickly in tourist hotspots. One thing that can destroy your budget is beer in Indonesia, as there are high import taxes on alcohol so it’s not built for those who want to keep going to the local pub with a low budget.
Sri Lanka
Visit during the shoulder months, which is May to June or September. This is when coastal and city accommodation prices drop significantly, so they become much more affordable for travellers. Places like Ksamil and Saranda are much more expensive in peak summer, so you should avoid these if you want to spend €30 a day. Visit northern mountains and interior towns like Berat or Gjirokastër for the cheapest experience.
Bolivia
Bolivia remains one of the most budget-friendly destinations in South America. A daily budget of €30 is sufficient for a classic backpacking style, so you don’t need to worry too much about stressful planning. To successfully maintain this budget, you will need to choose low-cost options for your primary daily expenses. You can find cheap accommodation for around €7 and €6 for a good meal.
Montenegro
If you’re going to travel to Montenegro on €30 a day, you need strict discipline, slow travel and off-season timing, as travelling during the peak times will see higher prices. The most expensive part will be a dorm bed in a hostel, as this can take a third of your budget. You can have a couple of cheap meals throughout the day, which will cost you around €15 in total. Luckily, you don’t have to spend much for activities, as the beaches are completely free to visit and can give you hours of enjoyment with a good book or beachball.
Rules for Surviving on €30 a Day
Stay in Hostels
The most cost-effective accommodation is hostels. You can stay in shared rooms for under $10 in many locations, which are much cheaper than hotels. There’s also free lodging networks like Couchsurfing. This can help cost-effective travellers to stay in other people’s properties for free, but it’s always important to be careful when on these platforms.
Eat Locally
Rather than spending unnecessary money on food from a posh restaurant menu, you can eat from local sources who will be selling food for cheaper. Street vendors are located all over countries in Eastern Asia, so you can fill your belly for under €5. If you see a McDonald’s or KFC abroad, just walk the other way!
Slow Travel
Use slow public buses or trains instead of high-speed transit or taxis, as these will be much cheaper. You can often get from one location to another for under €3, helping you to save money for activities and food that will enhance your experience.
Final Thoughts
Travelling the world on the cheap is very much possible, so you don’t have to go over your €30 a day budget. Those with British Citizenship get free travel all over the world and are among the most active tourists in the world. If this is you, make sure that you save that little bit extra if you want to fully enjoy your experience.
