Taking a vacation nowadays seems to be more of a hassle than anything. Not only do you have to plan the days you take off work, but you also have to save thousands of dollars and plan an itinerary. For many, it might be too stressful to even think about a vacation.
But what if you could find the most affordable places to travel while still feeling safe so you can see the world without the stress of overspending? If you’re not picky about where you go, you can come across affordable places to travel in 2025 that won’t break the bank. These top six locations are the perfect vacation spots that are gorgeous, affordable, and safe.
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6. Romania
Want to take a trip to Europe but have no real destination? Then try Romania, one of the most affordable places to travel. While the cost depends on multiple factors like accommodations, dining habits, and activities, everything is still fairly affordable.
For instance, most guesthouses and hotels start at only $40 a night. Transportation is even affordable, with buses and taxis being around $1 or $2, however, walking is an easier way to get around while sightseeing. As for food, you’re looking at an average of $15 per meal for mid-range restaurants, but if you seek authentic, local food or street food, you’ll likely save.
This, along with activities, you’re looking at spending roughly $1,000 a week in Romania, which is affordable compared to other parts of Europe.
5. Costa Rica
Want to travel without going too far? Then head to Costa Rica. Costa Rica is known for being one of the most heavenly and luscious landscapes on the planet, and with a daily cost of around $90 to $150, it’s not a bad option.
Hostels typically cost around $30, while hotels are closer to $80. However, if you choose between August and November to travel, you’ll likely cut back on a lot of costs, just make sure to bring rain gear. And thanks to the beaches in Costa Rica, you’ll probably have an abundance of activities, from swimming to hiking trails, without paying.
And don’t forget, eat where the locals eat, especially at local markets and food stands, for affordable, yet delicious and authentic food.
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4. Poland
Another great country in Europe that is an affordable place to travel is Poland. Well-known for being cheap and beautiful, Poland is the perfect place to visit if you want an abundance of places to go.
Most cities around Poland are only $40 a night, but many hostels can average around $12 if you want to try and cut back costs. Along with affordable accommodations, you can actually find a delicious meal for cheap, at around $10 a meal. If you dine with the locals, you might even come across a plate of Pierogi for only $2.
The price for activities is typically only a couple of dollars, but in some cities costs $8 to enter a museum, so you can easily rack up the money.
3. Mexico
A huge country to traverse is Mexico, and it’s also one of the most affordable places to travel in 2025. Depending on where you go, you can spend a few weeks to even a few months without breaking the bank. Not only can you find affordable accommodations of around $15 at hostels and even $80 for a hotel.
For transportation, since it’s a big country, you might have to fork up some money to avoid walking a long distance, which usually costs around $3 to $7. The food is to die for but can be found for cheap. Some meals cost only around $2, while some restaurants offer meals for $10.
As for activities, you can spend a couple of dollars on some fun plans like whale-watching and surfing, but just exploring cities is a great use of your time while keeping money in your wallet.
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2. Hungary
Hungary is another beautiful country in Europe that is considered one of the most affordable places to travel. In fact, it’s actually one of the most underrated countries in Europe that everyone should try and visit. Not only can you try and find decently affordable flights using some websites like Secret Flying or Skyscanner, but the average day cost is not that bad.
For instance, some of the cheapest beds in hostels are about $12 a night, but even a double room or apartment is about $40 a night. Most locals tend to travel by bus or train, which is about $8 for one ticket or $4 for a car ride. For a mid-range restaurant, you’ll likely spend about $15, but you can easily find meals for only $5 if you look where the locals go.
There are free walking tours and wonderful areas to sight-see, but if you want to splurge on activities, you’ll spend around $20 to $40 on things like river cruises, thermal bath houses, or exploring underground cave systems.
1. Indonesia
Last but not least, the number one spot on the list of most affordable places to travel is Indonesia. The country is gorgeous and the daily cost is cheap, making it a place you’ll want to visit over and over again.
To start with, accommodations are incredible, as you might be able to find a fancy villa with a pool for only $66 in some cities. Some hostels cost only $7 a night, which is much cheaper than the rest on the list. Indonesia’s transportation system uses trains, buses, and boats, and are fairly decent at around $16 for a trip.
The food is breathtaking, and you can often find a decent meal for only $3, however, you might be spending around $10 at a mid-range restaurant.
Even the activities aren’t that bad. Whether you just want to hike active volcanos or go on boat trips, the average cost of activities is around $25. Compared to the rest of the countries on the list, this is a worthwhile visit for sure.
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