How I Traveled to 5 Countries in 30 Days on a Budget
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How I Traveled to 5 Countries in 30 Days on a Budget
Traveling the world sounds expensive, but with smart planning, a little flexibility, and the right mindset, it’s possible to explore multiple countries without draining your bank account. I managed to visit five countries in just 30 days—all on a tight budget. Here’s exactly how I did it and how you can too.
1. Planning Ahead (But Staying Flexible)
Before I booked anything, I made a rough plan of the countries I wanted to visit. My route was: Thailand → Cambodia → Vietnam → Malaysia → Indonesia. These Southeast Asian countries are not only close to each other but also incredibly affordable. I used flight comparison tools like Skyscanner and Google Flights to find the cheapest dates and routes, and I stayed open to changing plans if better deals appeared.
2. Flying Cheap with Budget Airlines
I flew with budget airlines like AirAsia, VietJet, and Scoot, and always traveled with carry-on luggage to avoid extra fees. Booking flights on weekdays and using incognito mode to avoid price hikes helped me save a lot. Most flights cost me under $50!
3. Accommodation: Hostels, Homestays, and Couchsurfing
Instead of staying in hotels, I opted for hostels, local homestays, and even tried Couchsurfing. This not only cut down my accommodation costs (sometimes to $0!) but also gave me a more local experience. Many hostels offered free breakfast, which was a bonus.
4. Eating Like a Local
Dining in touristy spots can add up fast. I made it a point to eat like a local—street food, small eateries, and local markets. In Vietnam, a delicious bowl of pho cost me just $1. In Thailand, I enjoyed pad thai for under $2. Tasty, filling, and easy on the wallet.
5. Free and Low-Cost Activities
Instead of pricey tours, I focused on free attractions—temples, beaches, walking tours, and museums with no entry fees. In Bali, I explored waterfalls and rice terraces. In Phnom Penh, I visited historical sites for just a few dollars. I used blogs and travel forums to find hidden spots that weren’t expensive or crowded.
6. Using Local Transport
I skipped taxis and relied on local buses, trains, tuk-tuks, and ride-sharing apps. They were not only cheaper but gave me a real glimpse into everyday life in each country. In some places, renting a scooter cost me less than $5/day!
7. Daily Budget and Tracking
I set a daily budget of around $30, which covered food, transport, stay, and activities. Apps like TravelSpend helped me track everything and stay on course. By the end of the trip, I had spent around $850 total—not bad for five countries in a month!
Final Thoughts
Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive or luxurious to be meaningful. With a bit of creativity, research, and willingness to go off the beaten path, you can make unforgettable memories on a budget. This 30-day journey was proof that adventure doesn’t need a luxury price tag—it just needs passion and a plan.