It’s summertime, and you know what that means—vacation time! If you’re like most people, though, the prospect of taking off for an exotic vacation can be daunting, especially if you want to do it on the cheap. So, where should budget-conscious travelers head? We’ve compiled a list of our favorite destinations that won’t break the bank—whether you plan to spend weeks or just a few days there. Here are our top 7 destinations for budget travelers.
Central America:
Central America is a hidden gem for budget travelers. Generally inexpensive and home to some of the best natural wonders on earth, Central America offers great opportunities for adventure without having to shell out big bucks. From all-inclusive resorts to luxury glamping, Central America gives you plenty of options. But if you’re looking for an authentic (and affordable) experience, try hostels or guesthouses—it can be cheaper than staying in hotels and still offer your own room and access to shared facilities.
For those who want to explore nature, there are lots of eco-tourism activities that are also affordable. For example, check out Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park or Nicaragua’s Corn Islands. In addition to hiking and snorkeling opportunities, these areas have many local activities such as horseback riding and surfing that won’t break your bank account.
Colombia:
With its attractive coasts, highlands and jungles, Colombia is a playground for backpackers and budget travelers looking to experience Latin America on a shoestring. From cheap hostels in Bogota and Santa Marta to dirt-cheap meals in Medellin and Cartagena, Colombia’s cities offer plenty of options for travelers on a budget. But it’s not just about staying in one place—Colombia also has some of South America’s most affordable transportation options, with buses running between major cities like Bogota and Santa Marta for as little as $10 USD per person. And if you want to get off the beaten path and explore lesser-known areas like Tayrona National Park or El Cocuy National Park? You can do that too! It’s hard to beat Colombia when it comes to budget travel destinations.
Mexico:
Mexico is an excellent place to travel on a budget. It’s not only popular with backpackers, but also with luxury travelers who want to take a break from their wallet-busting holidays in France and Italy. Even though Mexico is known for its beach destinations, it actually has much more to offer than just sun and sand. Visitors can explore ancient Mayan ruins, climb mountains in central Mexico and party all night in cities like Mexico City and Acapulco. Best of all?
You can do it all without breaking your bank account. If you want to see Mexico at its best, book a flight to Cancun or Playa del Carmen during spring break season (mid-March through mid-April). Not only will you get great deals on flights and hotels, but you’ll also have plenty of company if you’re looking for some spring fling action.
India:
India is one of those countries that it’s difficult to describe in just a few words. It’s so rich with culture, heritage and ancient history that most people return from trips saying they didn’t do justice to India in just a couple weeks! The two major cities of Delhi and Mumbai alone have enough sights to fill several lifetimes, but once you get off-the-beaten path India becomes even more exciting and wondrous.
You can still find cheap airfare to India if you book early enough, but there are plenty of other ways to save money on your trip as well.
Nicaragua:
Whether you’re looking for a summer getaway or trying to enjoy a warm winter in a different hemisphere, Nicaragua is an underrated budget travel destination. In addition to having some of Central America’s best surfing spots, Nicaragua is home to 19th-century cathedrals that have remained intact since its civil war ended in 1989 and Spanish colonial architecture like León Cathedral.
It also has one of Central America’s most active volcanoes, San Cristóbal, which makes for a great weekend trip from Managua. Best of all? It’s super cheap to fly there from Miami—so if you don’t mind roughing it on your vacation (and who doesn’t?), it won’t break your bank account either.
South Africa:
There’s no country in Africa that makes a better first trip than South Africa. Its history, natural beauty, friendly locals and (relatively) affordable price tag make it an ideal place to spend your first weeks of backpacking. It’s not uncommon for travelers to fall in love with South Africa so much that they end up staying forever!
From its world-class wine regions to its cultural diversity and mesmerizing cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, it’s no wonder why.
Bosnia & Herzegovina:
This hidden gem is set on a dramatic landscape of mountains, forests and rivers. In fact, Bosnia and Herzegovina boasts a wealth of natural beauty that makes it an unmissable travel destination for those wanting to explore Europe. It’s also one of Europe’s cheapest countries – in 2016, two-thirds of visitors were from European countries with Croatia (6%) and Germany (4%) being particularly well represented.
But don’t let its affordability put you off visiting; Bosnia and Herzegovina have much more to offer than just bargain prices. You can visit medieval castles, enjoy some fine wines at local vineyards or go white water rafting down a raging river! Don’t forget your camera though as you will want to capture some of these breathtaking landscapes!