Southeast Asia is a dream destination for budget travelers. With affordable accommodations, cheap food, and inexpensive transportation, it’s one of the best regions to explore without spending a fortune. Whether you’re a backpacker, digital nomad, or just someone looking for an affordable adventure, Southeast Asia has plenty to offer. Here are the best budget-friendly countries to visit in the region.

1. Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia, offering stunning landscapes, delicious street food, and a rich cultural experience—all at a low cost.

• Accommodation: Budget hostels start at $5 per night, while budget hotels cost around $10–$15.
• Food: A bowl of pho or a banh mi sandwich costs as little as $1–$2. Street food is everywhere and incredibly cheap.
• Transportation: Public buses and sleeper trains are inexpensive. Motorbike rentals cost around $5 per day, making it a great way to explore.
• Top Budget Destinations: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hoi An.

2. Cambodia

Cambodia is perfect for budget travelers, offering historical wonders, beautiful beaches, and a low cost of living.

• Accommodation: Hostels start at $4, and budget guesthouses are around $10–$15 per night.
• Food: Local meals cost around $2–$3, and street food is even cheaper.
• Transportation: Buses are the best way to get around, with long-distance tickets costing $5–$10. Tuk-tuks are common in cities and can be bargained for lower prices.
• Top Budget Destinations: Siem Reap (home to Angkor Wat), Phnom Penh, and Koh Rong for budget island getaways.

3. Laos

Laos is often overlooked, but it’s one of the cheapest and most peaceful destinations in Southeast Asia. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy nature, adventure, and a slow-paced lifestyle.

• Accommodation: Budget hostels cost around $5 per night, and guesthouses range from $10–$15.
• Food: Local meals are $1–$3, and delicious street food is widely available.
• Transportation: Buses and slow boats are affordable options for getting around, though roads can be rough.
• Top Budget Destinations: Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and the 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don).

4. Thailand

Thailand is a top choice for budget travelers, offering a mix of bustling cities, beautiful beaches, and lush mountains.

• Accommodation: Hostels start at $6, while budget hotels range from $10–$20 per night.
• Food: Street food is everywhere, with meals costing as little as $1–$3.
• Transportation: Public transport is cheap, and budget airlines offer low-cost domestic flights. Renting a motorbike is also an affordable way to explore.
• Top Budget Destinations: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pai, and the budget-friendly islands like Koh Tao and Koh Lanta.

5. Indonesia

Indonesia is a paradise for budget travelers, with cheap accommodations, affordable food, and stunning natural beauty.

• Accommodation: Budget hostels start at $5, and guesthouses range from $10–$15 per night.
• Food: A plate of nasi goreng (fried rice) or mie goreng (fried noodles) costs around $1–$2.
• Transportation: Ferries, buses, and motorbike rentals are the best ways to get around on a budget.
• Top Budget Destinations: Bali (outside touristy areas), Yogyakarta, and Lombok.

6. The Philippines

The Philippines is slightly more expensive than some of its neighbors due to island-hopping transportation costs, but it’s still a fantastic budget-friendly destination.

• Accommodation: Budget hostels cost around $6, and guesthouses range from $10–$20 per night.
• Food: Local meals cost around $2–$4, and street food is very affordable.
• Transportation: Ferries and budget airlines offer cheap ways to travel between islands. Jeepneys and tricycles are the cheapest options within cities.
• Top Budget Destinations: Cebu, Palawan, Siquijor, and Bohol.

7. Malaysia

Malaysia is a mix of modern cities and tropical landscapes, with plenty of budget-friendly options for travelers.

• Accommodation: Hostels start at $6, and budget hotels cost around $15 per night.
• Food: Malaysia has some of the best street food in Southeast Asia, with meals starting at $2–$3.
• Transportation: Buses and trains are affordable, and budget airlines make it easy to travel between islands.
• Top Budget Destinations: Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, and the Cameron Highlands.

8. Myanmar (Burma)

Myanmar is a hidden gem for budget travelers who want to experience a less touristy side of Southeast Asia.

• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses cost around $10–$15 per night.
• Food: Local meals cost around $1–$3, making it one of the cheapest places to eat in Southeast Asia.
• Transportation: Overnight buses are affordable, and renting a bike is a great way to explore cities.
• Top Budget Destinations: Bagan, Mandalay, and Inle Lake.