Budget travel is booming in 2025—and the great news is that you don’t need a huge bank balance to explore the world. Many beautiful countries offer stunning landscapes, delicious food, great culture, and affordable stays that fit a backpacker’s budget.
If you’re planning a 1-week international trip, here are the 10 cheapest countries to visit in 2025.
⭐ 1. Vietnam
Vietnam is one of the BEST budget travel destinations in Asia.
Why it’s cheap: Affordable hostels, cheap street food, budget tours.
Highlights:
- Ha Long Bay
- Hanoi Old Quarter
- Hoi An Lantern City
- Phu Quoc beaches
Ideal for: Solo travellers, food lovers, history buffs.
⭐ 2. Thailand
Perfect for first-time international travellers.
Why it’s cheap: Flexible budgets, cheap transport, night markets.
Highlights:
- Phuket & Krabi beaches
- Bangkok nightlife
- Chiang Mai temples
Ideal for: Beach lovers & backpackers.
⭐ 3. Indonesia (Bali Special)
Bali offers luxury at budget prices.
Why it’s cheap: Homestays, affordable scooters, low food prices.
Highlights:
- Ubud rice terraces
- Canggu cafés
- Nusa Penida cliffs
- Bali swings
Ideal for: Couples, digital nomads, adventure lovers.
⭐ 4. Nepal
A paradise for nature and mountain lovers.
Why it’s cheap: Public transport & budget-friendly treks.
Highlights:
- Pokhara lakes
- Kathmandu temples
- Mt. Everest viewpoints
Ideal for: Adventure & culture.
⭐ 5. Sri Lanka
A full tropical experience without high costs.
Why it’s cheap: Cheap trains, guesthouses, local food.
Highlights:
- Ella train ride
- Mirissa beaches
- Sigiriya rock
- Kandy temples
Ideal for: Beach + nature.
⭐ 6. Philippines
Hidden paradise with 7,000+ islands.
Why it’s cheap: Budget island hopping & homestays.
Highlights:
- El Nido
- Coron
- Boracay
- Cebu waterfalls
Ideal for: Island lovers & photographers.
⭐ 7. Turkey
A blend of Europe + Asia on a low budget.
Why it’s cheap: Cheap internal flights, affordable Airbnb.
Highlights:
- Cappadocia hot air balloons
- Istanbul mosques
- Antalya beaches
Ideal for: History lovers + foodies.
⭐ 8. Cambodia
One of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia.
Why it’s cheap: Cheap stays, local buses.
Highlights:
- Angkor Wat
- Siem Reap markets
- Sihanoukville beaches
Ideal for: History & budget travellers.
⭐ 9. Laos
A silent, underrated gem.
Why it’s cheap: Budget river cruises, low food costs.
Highlights:
- Luang Prabang
- Kuang Si Falls
- Vang Vieng mountains
Ideal for: Backpackers seeking peace.
⭐ 10. Malaysia
Perfect balance of modern cities + nature.
Why it’s cheap: Affordable buses, variety of food, hostels.
Highlights:
- Kuala Lumpur
- Langkawi
- Penang food streets
Ideal for: Foodies & explorers.
📌 Bonus: Quick Budget Tips for a 1-Week Trip
Here’s how to make your trip cheaper:
✔ Book flights 6–8 weeks in advance
✔ Choose hostels or budget hotels
✔ Use local transport (buses, trains, tuk-tuks)
✔ Eat from street markets
✔ Travel in the off-season
✔ Use apps like Agoda, Skyscanner & Hostelworld
✈️ Final Thoughts
These 10 countries offer amazing landscapes, food, culture, and adventure — all without burning your wallet. If you’re planning an affordable international vacation in 2025, any of these destinations will give you an unforgettable experience.