The Asia Backpacker Index debuted in 2011 and has been expanded and updated every year since then. The 2024 update continues to show that Asia is the best place for travel bargains in the world as a few great destinations are still under US$20 per day for a hostel bed, 3 meals, 3 drinks, 2 transportation rides, and one attraction each day. Laos now dominates the cheap part of the list as you can get dorm beds for under US$5 in the most interesting cities.
There was some inflation in most Asian countries in 2023 and food prices in particular have been adjusted accordingly, but overall prices are still very low compared to even other bargain parts of the world like Latin America and eastern Europe. Tokyo is no longer the most expensive as Singapore and Hong Kong are both pricier for backpackers these days.
Asia in 2024 updates
The 2024 update of the Asia Backpacker Index did not have many dramatic shifts in rankings, but it did continue to show how affordable so many of Asia’s top destinations are compared to pretty much everywhere else on earth. There was inflation of between 5% and 10% in most of the places listed so food and other prices have been adjusted accordingly. A few countries had no inflation at all, including China, which is actually dealing with deflation and a struggling economy.
The one surprise that continues is that Tokyo used to be by far the most expensive city on the Asia list for the first 9 years of this project until it was passed by Singapore a few years ago. Now Hong Kong has also passed it and Tokyo looks like a great bargain as their currency has weakened even more and prices have barely gone up.
How the Backpacker Index works
Prices for most things are fixed and certain, but prices for a “budget lunch” or a bottle of beer can vary depending on whom you ask. Still, our estimates are based on a lot of research, and should be very close if not right on.
Costs for each city
- One night in the cheapest bunk at the least expensive hostel with a good location and good reviews, or half the price of a double hotel room in places where there are no hostels
- Two public transportation rides per day
- One paid/famous attraction per day (Every city is loaded with free things to do for budget-conscious travelers, but here we take the average cost of a major attraction in each city for each day.)
- Three “budget” meals per day (We took our minimum meal price and added 20% to make it more realistic for a longer trip.)
- Three cheap, local beers each day as an “entertainment fund.” Non-drinkers might have dessert and coffee or attend a local music performance instead, so this is a general benchmark that should be proportional for each city.
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Price of Travel's Asia Backpacker Index for 2024
Note: All prices converted to US dollars in January, 2024
1– Vientiane, Laos (cheapest)
Landlocked and sometimes forgotten, Laos generally only tends to get visitors who are spending time touring the whole region, but those who make it are rewarded with a fascinating culture, and low prices. Laos’ capital city is so low key that it feels like a small-town river resort, though modern development is starting to creep in. Laos had pretty high inflation in 2023, but the currency came down quite a bit as well so the place is still unusually cheap for visitors. If you only have time for one stop in Laos it’s probably better to go straight to Luang Prabang (see #6 below), but the capital is an interesting stop if you have more than a few days in the country.
- Currency: Laos kip
- Best cheap hostel: Dream Home Hostel – 114,000/night
- Transportation: 30,000
- Meals: 164,400
- Drinks/Entertainment: 75,000
- Attractions: 10,000
- Daily Backpacker Index: LAK393,400 = US$19.03/day
2– Delhi (and New Delhi), India
Until recently, most of Delhi (and New Delhi at its heart) was not as cheap as you might expect, but there are now quite a few really good hostels to cater to the considerable backpacking community. In fact, there are now some good hostels with great reviews that are shockingly cheap, which is why Delhi is so high on this list for 2024. Hotels up to Western standards tend to be more expensive here, even in the infamous backpacker ghetto of Pahar Ganj, so it’s critical to research carefully before booking a cheaper place. The street food is cheap though and restaurants are pretty reasonable, although finding alcohol isn’t as easy as it could be.
- Currency: Indian rupee
- Best cheap hostel: Backpackers Heaven@Kuldeep Friends Hostel – 200/night
- Transportation: 40
- Meals: 720
- Drinks/Entertainment: 420
- Attractions: 250
- Daily Backpacker Index: INR1,630 = US$19.61/day
3– Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Saigon, as it’s still usually known, is far more sprawling and modern compared to Hanoi, and it’s quite a bit more lively as well. Hotel and food prices tend to be a bit higher than elsewhere in Vietnam, but compared to almost anywhere else in the world this is a bargain. Hostel beds can be quite cheap in Saigon, but hotels are costlier than almost anywhere in Vietnam. Some new hostels have opened recently and that competition has pushed prices down a bit at others. Many new hostels sell beds at very low prices in the hopes that you’ll book tours through them or at least buy drinks.
- Currency: Vietnamese dong
- Best cheap hostel: Vy Da Backpacker Hostel – 98,700/night
- Transportation: 50,000
- Meals: 254,400
- Drinks/Entertainment: 75,000
- Attractions: 40,000
- Daily Backpacker Index: VND518,100 = US$21.10/day
4– Pokhara, Nepal
While Kathmandu is where most visitors land first, it’s fairly hectic and its sights can be seen in only a couple days. So most people head quickly to Pokhara, which is Nepal’s tourism hub and the starting point of many fabulous treks. Fortunately, it’s not only more pleasant than the capital, but also cheaper in most respects, so it’s a great place to linger if you have time. Guided treks in the nearby mountains can be expensive, and those can be a huge drain on your budget. On the other hand, those are the main reason people come here at all. Watch out for the weather in Pokhara though as they have 4 or 5 really nice months each year and at least as many rainy and miserable ones.
- Currency: Nepalese rupee
- Best cheap hostel: Kiwi Backpackers Hostel Pokhara – 751/night
- Transportation: 100
- Meals: 924
- Drinks/Entertainment: 975
- Attractions: 100
- Daily Backpacker Index: NPR2,850 = US$21.43/day
5– Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi is typically Vietnam’s cheapest big city (by just a bit) for backpackers and it gets high marks from most visitors with its unique combination of French colonial and Asian post-communism. But in 2024 the hostels in Saigon are a bit cheaper. The food is also top-notch, especially when you are sitting amongst locals at one of the thousands of plastic-chair cafes throughout the city. Keep costs even lower by sticking with Bia Hoi, the world’s cheapest beer. Hostel beds are cheap, but private rooms are too, so don’t automatically book a bunk. The city is filled with small 5-story family-run hotels that are amazing value and usually come with a generous breakfast included.
- Currency: Vietnamese dong
- Best cheap hostel: Hanoi Central Backpackers Hostel – 139,650/night
- Transportation: 50,000
- Meals: 236,400
- Drinks/Entertainment: 75,000
- Attractions: 30,000
- Daily Backpacker Index: VND531,050 = US$21.63/day
6– Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang is noticeably more expensive than Vientiane, but for now it’s still very cheap for those who travel like a backpacker. Laos is one of the few countries in southeast Asia that has been dealing with inflation again in 2023, but the currency has dropped a bit as well so it’s still cheap. The local attractions are all practically free, and the ice-cold Beerlao is sold at the same low price at nearly every restaurant in the city. Hotel prices are relatively high in Luang Prabang so for most travelers it would be further down this list. This is another mellow city that can be good for longer stays, partly because you won’t feel like you are missing too much if you just work or hang out in your hotel or hostel most of the time.
- Currency: Laos kip
- Best cheap hostel: Sunrise Riverside Pool Hostel – 122,000/night
- Transportation: 30,000
- Meals: 186,000
- Drinks/Entertainment: 90,000
- Attractions: 25,000
- Daily Backpacker Index: LAK453,000 = US$21.92/day
7– Hoi An, Vietnam
Until you are actually planning a trip to Vietnam you’d be excused for never having heard of Hoi An, which is just south of Danang on the central coast. But Hoi An is a very popular stop for those touring the country, and it ends up being the trip highlight for a great number of those. The old town is a perfectly preserved Chinese-style fishing village with French and Japanese influences, and the city is as filled with great and cheap restaurants as it is with tailor shops. Hoi An used to lack traditional hostels with cheap bunk beds, but that is no longer true and backpackers can find dorms in the center of town at very low prices. But again it’s worth mentioning that hotel rooms are also very cheap here, so you can probably afford a private room for only a bit more than a bunk in a public dorm room. There are also new hostels on or near the lovely beach here, which is a short motorbike ride from town.
- Currency: Vietnamese dong
- Best cheap hostel: Bed Station Hostel & Pool Bar Hoi An – 136,800/night
- Transportation: 50,000
- Meals: 210,000
- Drinks/Entertainment: 66,000
- Attractions: 80,000
- Daily Backpacker Index: VND542,800 = $22.11/day
8– Chiang Mai, Thailand
Thailand’s “capital of the north” is certainly one of the world’s great travel bargain destinations. Filled with ancient temples and surrounded by a moat and city walls, Chiang Mai is a major stop in the region and a highlight for many. Much less crowded than Bangkok, and quite a bit cheaper as well, this is also booming with expats and creative people living cheaply while they work. If you are a ‘digital nomad’ it’s pretty much compulsory to spend at least a few months here. The food in Chiang Mai is quite different from in the south and it’s a highlight for most who come here. You can probably afford a pretty nice hotel with a pool when visiting Chiang Mai so do yourself a favor and take advantage of that.
- Currency: Thai baht
- Best cheap hostel: Monkey Toe Guesthouse – 207/night
- Transportation: 40
- Meals: 264
- Drinks/Entertainment: 210
- Attractions: 100
- Daily Backpacker Index: THB821 = US$23.19/day
9– Kathmandu, Nepal
Nepal’s capital is one of those cities most travelers just hustle through on their way somewhere else, like Pokhara (see above) or other trekking centers in this case. But it’s a fascinating and unusual place that’s worth a look for a few days anyway. The backpacker zone of Thamel is a classic traveler neighborhood, brimming over with cheap hotels, restaurants, and bars. Most of the rest of Kathmandu struggles with tidiness, but at least it’s quite cheap.
- Currency: Nepalese rupee
- Best cheap hostel: WanderThirst Hostels – 577/night
- Transportation: 70
- Meals: 1,188
- Drinks/Entertainment: 960
- Attractions: 400
- Daily Backpacker Index: NPR3,195 = US$24.02/day
10– Manila, Philippines
It’s a bit unfair to use Manila as the only city example in the Philippines, because the country is loaded with far nicer beach resorts and more interesting colonial cities, most of which are even cheaper than Manila. In fact, you’ll see Boracay Island way down this list. Still, many sun-seekers and cultural tourist head here every week, so it’s good to know that it’s very affordable for short stays on your way somewhere else. Cebu is another large city that is a bit cheaper and maybe a bit more pleasant. Several new hostels have opened recently in Manila and it’s now a cheaper place to visit for backpackers, but still perhaps not spending more than a couple days here anyway. The traffic in Manila is epic and a lack of comprehensive public transportation makes it difficult and slow to get around.
- Currency: Philippine peso
- Best cheap hostel: Ola! Hostel Manila – 497/night
- Transportation: 40
- Meals: 516
- Drinks/Entertainment: 225
- Attractions: 150
- Daily Backpacker Index: PHP1,428 = US$25.50/day
11– Jakarta, Indonesia
One of the most populated cities in the world, Jakarta is a major hub for anyone visiting Indonesia (except for Bali). The city itself gets mixed reviews as a tourist destination, with pretty much all of Indonesia’s charms being found elsewhere. The good news is that at least it’s quite cheap for budget travelers, and it should be interesting to anyone who likes booming Asian cities. Jakarta could be a good point to enter the country for onward travel, but it’s not the kind of place you want to focus on for more than a couple days.
- Currency: Indonesian rupiah
- Best cheap hostel: The Packer Lodge – 140,000/night
- Transportation: 7,000
- Meals: 144,000
- Drinks/Entertainment: 120,000
- Attractions: 10,000
- Daily Backpacker Index: IDR421,000 = US$26.92/day
12– Goa, India
India, in general, is a great travel bargain, as long as you are outside of its huge cities. Goa is actually a small state, rather than a city, so it’s a collection of beach and inland towns that have long been associated with hippie and electronic-music culture. Not all of Goa is this cheap, of course, but those on a budget can stretch their travel funds almost indefinitely in Goa if they have to, or are just motivated to hang around for a few months. It should be noted that the cheapest hotels in Goa (and throughout India) are in a class below “1-star” so paying for a nicer place might be wise.
- Currency: Indian rupee
- Best cheap hostel: The Lost Hostels, Goa – Palolem Beach – 430/night
- Transportation: 60
- Meals: 984
- Drinks/Entertainment: 450
- Attractions: 390
- Daily Backpacker Index: INR2,314 = US$27.85/day
13– Kuta, Bali, Indonesia
Few parts of Asia have undergone such tourist growth as Bali, even after the tragic bombings in 2002. The Kuta beach area is now a nearly solid block of guesthouses, travel agencies, and restaurants, but fortunately it’s also still quite cheap, and an excellent travel bargain in general. Those wanting less commercialism can find it elsewhere in Bali, but those wanting a great beach party can find it in Kuta. If you don’t like crowds and you want to see what Bali was like before all the concrete, head to Lovina along the northern coast.
- Currency: Indonesian rupiah
- Best cheap hostel: Celebest Kuta Hostel – 75,000/night
- Transportation: 16,000
- Meals: 176,400
- Drinks/Entertainment: 120,000
- Attractions: 50,000
- Daily Backpacker Index: IDR437,400 = US$27.97/day
14– Bangkok, Thailand
Southeast Asia’s main entry point and most notorious destination continues to be a budget traveler’s dream, with plenty of cheap hostels and hotels plus excellent street food that costs almost nothing. It’s only the relatively high price of alcohol that pushes Bangkok down the cheap-list a bit, so teetotalers are even better off than the rest of us. Khoasan Road is the main backpacker district and it’s a lot of fun as long as you don’t mind being surrounded mostly by other backpackers from all over the world. Bangkok is huge and sprawling, so pay close attention before booking a hostel or hotel. It’s better to pay a bit more to be close to attractions rather than save a little and have to spend an hour getting to something interesting each day.
- Currency: Thai baht
- Best cheap hostel: Born Free Hostel – 284/night
- Transportation: 40
- Meals: 192
- Drinks/Entertainment: 240
- Attractions: 250
- Daily Backpacker Index: THB1,006 = US$28.42/day
15– Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Phnom Penh might be visited less if not for the fact that it’s a handy stop between Siem Reap and the Mekong Delta, but its convenient location has helped it develop a large tourist infrastructure, and it’s an interesting stop for sure. The main attractions are all quite cheap, as are the happy-hour beers at the pleasant restaurants lined up along the river. That said, it’s probably not worth planning on spending more than a few days here.
- Currency: US dollar
- Best cheap hostel: Mad Monkey Phnom Penh – US$7.64
- Transportation: 2
- Meals: 10.20
- Drinks/Entertainment: 3.00
- Attractions: 6.00
- Daily Backpacker Index: US$28.84/day
16– Siem Reap, Cambodia
One of the world’s great budget travel cities (and once home of the world’s cheapest hostel beds), Siem Reap was built as a staging area for daytime trips to the Angkor Wat temples just to the north, yet on its own this city is also about as pleasant and fun as they come. Interestingly, Siem Reap would be well up this list, in the super-cheap territory, if we didn’t calculate in a substantial amount for Attractions, since the amazing temple complex itself is justifiably not cheap. Everything but the temples is amazingly cheap all things considered. In fact, Siem Reap’s recommended ‘best cheap hostel’ is one of Asia’s cheapest well-reviewed hostels in general.
- Currency: US dollar
- Best cheap hostel: Siem Reap Pub Hostel – US$3.46/night
- Transportation: 2.00
- Meals: 10.20
- Drinks/Entertainment: 2.25
- Attractions: 12.00
- Daily Backpacker Index: US$29.91/day
17– Colombo, Sri Lanka
NOTE: Sri Lanka had a rough 2022 with high inflation and political turmoil, but as of early 2024 we hear that things are pretty much back to normal again.
Colombo is one of those overcrowded and mostly charmless Asian capital cities that people often spend a day in on their way in and/or out of the country, and that’s about all it’s good for. If you are determined you can find plenty of interesting temples and such, but most people are better off staying only a day or so. Prices of the more scenic and interesting Sri Lankan cities are similar so this is a good guide for budget planning. The country still lacks hostels and good budget hotels, so sleeping here isn’t as cheap as in Southeast Asia, although most everything else is.
- Currency: Sri Lankan rupee
- Best cheap hostel: Colombo Beach Hostel – 3,500/night
- Transportation: 300
- Meals: 3,444
- Drinks/Entertainment: 2,700
- Attractions: 500
- Daily Backpacker Index: LKR10,444= US$32.33/day
18– Yangon, Burma (Myanmar)
When the informal travel boycott was lifted in 2014, this country wasn’t really ready for tourists. There were almost no hostels or budget hotels aimed at backpackers so things were more expensive than they really should have been. In the following years, that had changed and there are now plenty of good hostels and the competition has brought prices down. Yangon is where most people arrive, so it’s probably the best hub to consider for a trip to Myanmar. Food and drinks tend to be cheap, as you’d expect in this part of Southeast Asia.
Note: The military junta took control of the government again in early 2021 and visiting is still not recommended as of early 2024. We hope the situation gets better again soon.
- Currency: Burmese Kyat
- Best cheap hostel: HOOD Hostel – 36,700/night
- Transportation: 1,000
- Meals: 19,200
- Drinks/Entertainment: 6,000
- Attractions: 7,500
- Daily Backpacker Index: MMK70,400 = US$33.48/day
19– Mumbai, India
Mumbai is India’s financial capital and it has a famous movie industry, but it’s not actually a great tourism destination as it’s crowded and strangely expensive for India. At least there are some reasonably priced hostels that have popped up in 2024. Fortunately, one can see the main sights in a few days or less, so it’s a good idea to minimize time in Mumbai and then head out to someplace less insane as quickly as possible. Mumbai isn’t really a tourist city even though it is quite impressive, so don’t plan on staying more than 2 or 3 days here either.
- Currency: Indian rupee
- Best cheap hostel: Locomo Stay Work Eat – 1,037/night
- Transportation: 60
- Meals: 792
- Drinks/Entertainment: 510
- Attractions: 500
- Daily Backpacker Index: INR2,899 = US$35.15/day
20– Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Malaysia, in general, tends to be forgotten by many, with the huge capital of Kuala Lumpur often mostly remembered as once having the world’s tallest buildings. That’s a major shame because Kuala Lumpur is a fascinating mix of new, old, and exotic, that’s also extremely easy to access since English is widely spoken. If visiting Singapore, it’s worth taking the train up for a short side trip. Hostel beds tend to be cheap here, but hotel rooms will cost a bit more so for non-backpackers it would be down a few places on this list.
- Currency: Malaysian ringgit
- Best cheap hostel: Step Inn Guest House and Hostel – 23.11/night
- Transportation: 4.00
- Meals: 51.60
- Drinks/Entertainment: 54.00
- Attractions: 40.00
- Daily Backpacker Index: MYR172.71 = US$36.83/day
21– Taipei, Taiwan
If you want to witness historic Chinese culture and artworks without the hassle of getting a visa and visiting the mainland, Taipei is a perfect stop. This is a huge and bustling city that isn’t really oriented for English-speaking visitors as much as most on this list, but all the important signs are in English so it’s not overly challenging. Taipei is known for its foodie culture, and fortunately the street stalls and even many local restaurants are as cheap as they are delicious. Hotels here are pricey for Asia, although still good value by international standards.
- Currency: Taiwan dollar
- Best cheap hostel: Fun Inn Taipei – 537/night
- Transportation: 40
- Meals: 243.60
- Drinks/Entertainment: 210
- Attractions: 250
- Daily Backpacker Index: TWD1,280.60 = US$40.63/day
22– Boracay Island, Philippines
While Boracay Island has pretty much zero cultural sights, it’s still a popular stop for budget travelers in the area due to the gorgeous beaches and modest prices. The cheapest hotels and restaurants are in the Boat Station 3 area, while things can get expensive up north. The east side of the island is all about windsurfing and feels like a totally different place. A few new hostels with dorm beds have opened up in Boracay recently, and the whole island was closed to tourists for six months in 2018 to work on infrastructure. Now that it has reopened it is in much better shape than before.
- Currency: Philippine peso
- Best cheap hostel: Frendz Resort & Hostel Boracay – 802/night
- Transportation: 100
- Meals: 840
- Drinks/Entertainment: 270
- Attractions: 300
- Daily Backpacker Index: PHP2,312 = US$41.29/day
23– Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is another strange example on this list, since it’s not a city but a rather large island filled with beach resort towns. This is definitely the most expensive part of Thailand, but still cheapskates can have a good go of things if they are careful, though of course that means staying at least a few blocks from any of the beaches. Until a few years ago it was necessary to stay in Phuket Town (in the middle of the island) to get a really cheap dorm bed, but now there are quite a few cheaper hostels in the lively Patong Beach area. The cheaper places are many blocks from the beach, so it may be worth it to spend a bit more for a closer place.
- Currency: Thai baht
- Best cheap hostel: BearPacker Patong Hostel – 566/night
- Transportation: 100
- Meals: 444
- Drinks/Entertainment: 240
- Attractions: 200
- Daily Backpacker Index: THB1,550 = US$43.79/day
24– Shanghai, China
Far more modern than Beijing, and also more designed for business travelers, Shanghai is still a relative bargain for backpackers. Most things are a bit more expensive here, so budget travelers have to seek out the cheaper options, but again, compared to a similar modern city in another part of the world, Shanghai is a steal. On the other hand, sit-down dinners in nice restaurants and 3-star hotels with good locations are quite expensive. Shanghai is far more visually impressive than Beijing and it’s far easier for English speakers, so this is a better stop to linger in than other Chinese cities. Our research in 2024 uncovered a few cheap, new hostels, so this year it’s actually a bit cheaper than Beijing for the first time. Check our Go Shanghai Card review as a way to save money if you are planning on doing the big attractions.
- Currency: Chinese yuan
- Best cheap hostel: Shanghai Hidden Garden Youth Hostel – 109/night
- Transportation: 10
- Meals: 97.20
- Drinks/Entertainment: 60
- Attractions: 50
- Daily Backpacker Index: CNY326.20 = US$45.75/day
25– Seoul, South Korea
These days Seoul seems to be known mostly for its lightning-fast internet connections, and its professional videogame culture, not to mention its pop stars, but there’s obviously a lot more to it than that. Fortunately, the city is still quite reasonably priced for this kind of technology, although its remote location and less-than-perfect climate will keep most people away. The food here is amazing as well, assuming you like kimchee and their famous barbecued meat.
- Currency: Korean won
- Best cheap hostel: Time Travelers Party Hostel in Hongdae – 26,292/night
- Transportation: 2,500
- Meals: 19,440
- Drinks/Entertainment: 12,000
- Attractions: 10,000
- Daily Backpacker Index: KRW70,232 = US$52.53/day
26– Beijing, China
Beijing is one of those cities that you just have to visit at some point in your life, mainly to see the Forbidden City and a part of the Great Wall. Aside from those things this is a huge and sprawling city with less charm than you might guess. Hostel prices here have been going up although food and drinks are still quite inexpensive. Visiting China on a tour often tends to be cheaper than visiting independently, and you end up going to the same places anyway. Strangely enough, the hostels in Beijing in 2024 have shot way up in price for every date we checked. It seems unlikely that they will always be this expensive, but for the moment the capital seems to be quite a bit more expensive than it used to be.
- Currency: Chinese yuan
- Best cheap hostel: The Great Wall Box House – 241/night
- Transportation: 10.00
- Meals: 67.20
- Drinks/Entertainment: 45.00
- Attractions: 60.00
- Daily Backpacker Index: CNY423.20 = US$59.35/day
27– Xi’an, China
China’s two main tourist cities are Beijing and Shanghai, and Xi’an is a solid number three on that list. This is where you come to see the amazing Terra Cotta Warriors, which is a key stop on most China itineraries. Hotels, hostels, food and drinks are cheaper in Xi’an than in the other cities, but seeing the Warriors isn’t cheap so on average this city is farther down the list than it might otherwise deserve. Lest you think this is a small town near the Warriors, it’s actually a booming city of over 8 million. Similar to Beijing, hostel prices in Xi’an went way up in 2024 and it’s hard to tell what is going on.
- Currency: Chinese yuan
- Best cheap hostel: Han Tang Inn Hostel – 256/night
- Transportation: 6.00
- Meals: 61.20
- Drinks/Entertainment: 42.00
- Attractions: 75.00
- Daily Backpacker Index: CNY440.20 = US$61.74/day
28– Macau, China
Yes, it’s true that nearly everyone who visits Macau does so to gamble at one of its new and huge casinos, but it’s also long been an interesting destination for cultural visitors, offering a parallel tourist infrastructure in and near the old town itself. Many continue to stop over for a day or two on a Hong Kong side-trip, and bargains are still there for those who look (and don’t gamble). Since there are no hostels here, Macau is not a great choice for those on lower budgets. It’s easier to come on a day trip by ferry from Hong Kong to see the main sights.
- Currency: Macau pataca
- Best cheap hotel (private room for 2): Hou Kong Hotel (private double) – 238/night
- Transportation: 8.00
- Meals: 146.40
- Drinks/Entertainment: 45.00
- Attractions: 50.00
- Daily Backpacker Index: MOP487.40 = US$62.41/day
29– Tokyo, Japan
This is the third time that Tokyo has NOT been the most expensive city the list and the first time it hasn’t been one of the bottom two. For many years now Tokyo has been about the same price as a mid-range European city even though it was tops in Asia. You won’t really find much street food here, but the food in the million or so 7-Elevens is famously good and cheap. Considering the quality of everything in Japan and how well organized it is, Tokyo is really a bargain by international standards. Hostels are cheaper lately, which might be because tourism was almost zero during the pandemic. Honestly, Japan is looking like a great bargain these days as it’s still one of the world’s most modern and tidiest places and yet it’s much cheaper than it was only a few years ago.
- Currency: Japanese yen
- Best cheap hostel: Hostel bedgasm – 3,000/night
- Transportation: 400
- Meals: 2,772
- Drinks/Entertainment: 2,100
- Attractions: 1,000
- Daily Backpacker Index: JPY9,272 = US$63.25/day
30– Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong used to be famously cheap, and it’s still somewhat reasonable by international standards, but there are now so many rich people and business travelers coming through here that backpackers have to really search for the bargains. Since the recent crackdown by mainland China, many longtime residents have fled and many tourists are worried about visiting. Hotels can be quite expensive, though some hostels are still great value. Backpackers wanting to keep expenses low will have to suffer in terrible hostels and eat at local noodle shops in order to do it. Alcohol in bars in Hong Kong is extremely expensive, so backpackers usually prefer to buy from mini-markets and enjoy it somewhere else. If you really want to see the main attractions in a short time you might consider getting the Hong Kong Pass.
- Currency: Hong Kong dollar
- Best cheap hostel: Check Inn HK – 216/night
- Transportation: 5.00
- Meals: 170.40
- Drinks/Entertainment: 120.00
- Attractions: 50
- Daily Backpacker Index: HKD561.40 = US$71.88/day
31– Singapore, Singapore
Easily one of the world’s most modern cities, Singapore can actually be quite expensive for most, and now even the hostels are super expensive by Asian standards as well. It could be a COVID thing that closed down hostels for one reason or another, but prices have doubled in the last year. That said, eating most meals from the famous hawker centers will keep your budget intact while letting you sample some excellent (and very hygenic) local specialties. The attractions here tend to be quite expensive, so this is still a tough place for backpackers. Singapore’s popularity has soared also due to the success of ‘Crazy Rich Asians,’ but of course you won’t see much wealth flaunted at the hostels here.
- Currency: Singapore dollar
- Best cheap hostel: Betel Box Backpacker Hostel – 30.22/night
- Transportation: 3.00
- Meals: 28.80
- Drinks/Entertainment: 21.00
- Attractions: 15.00
- Daily Backpacker Index: SGD98.02 = US$73.15/day
Hi Roger,
I am planning to take my 2.5 years kid for a tour of 5 days in June. The objective is to chill to go to outside India which would have pleasant weather. My budget is 40000 to 50000 indian rupees
Can you please suggest some places.
Regards,
Reshma
Reshma,
I’ll be happy to try to help answer this one, but this isn’t much to go on. Being in India, I’d guess that by “pleasant weather” you’d probably prefer something cooler than where you are. I’ll also assume that you’ve already dismissed the closest and cheapest options, which would be Nepal and Sri Lanka. If the flight also needs to be included in that price, it’s quite challenging. The best place for cooler weather and cheap prices in that part of Asia would be Chiang Mai, Thailand. It’s an interesting city for a couple days, and there are also really good treks and other outdoor opportunities in the area.
If that isn’t even close to what you are looking for, please provide a bit more info and I’ll give it another shot. -Roger
Hi Roger,
I am going to stop in Singapore for 4 days and 3 nights after Asia cruise. Arrive at Marina Bay pier. I would like to stay on a budget of $1000/2 person including hotel, food, activities. What would you suggest? What I should see and eat?
Megan,
This isn’t an easy question to answer because Singapore has such a wide range of offerings. From a budget standpoint I think you’ll be fine, but you’ll have to be a little careful. Hotel rates in Singapore are now the highest in Asia, and it’s made a bit worse that hotel rooms tend to be tiny, and the cheapest ones often come with no window in the room. You’ll have to spend about US$200 per night for a double room that is decent and with a good location. Most of the cheaper hotels are also more in the suburban neighborhoods, and they can sometimes be dodgy as well. I’d recommend staying somewhere near Orchard Road, or near downtown or even in Chinatown. Those locations are central to all the sights so they cost more, but on a short trip I think it’s worth it.
For what to do, I can highly recommend the “tour” they offer at the top of the Marina Bay Sands hotel. It looks touristy, and it is, but that infinity pool and that view are worth it. There’s also a hop-on, hop-off bus tour that is a worthwhile orientation because Singapore is fairly spread out. There is also an island theme park, and endless shopping, and hundreds of other activities and things to see.
One great way to keep your food (and drink) costs down is to eat at least a few meals at the “hawker centers” which are in every neighborhood. They are dozens of little stalls in a food-court setting, and you can get great meals starting at only US$3 or US$4 each. The same meal in a sit-down restaurant a block away would be US$10 and up. Alcohol in Singapore is very expensive, except for beers at the hawker centers. That should give you a few ideas, and I’m sure it’ll be a great trip. Singapore is extremely impressive the first time you see it. -Roger
Dear Roger wade,
I am planning to travel for 1 person in asia(7days & 6 nights) budget is 1300 USD.,advice me 2 Countries in this budget & duration for the month of August
thanks
M Shahid Shakoor,
This is a difficult question to answer without knowing if you prefer cities or beaches or nature or temples and that sort of thing. Bangkok has a very interesting mix of most of those things, and it’s quite cheap by international standards. You could spend 3 or 4 days there and then spend 3 days in Siem Reap, Cambodia, visiting the Angkor Wat temple complex, which is one of the most amazing sights on earth. I’ll be happy to try to help you find something different if you let me know more about what you prefer. -Roger
Your budget is $1300 for 6 nights and seven days? May I suggest that when you’re not trying to save a few dollars eating street food with the grubby locals you stay in the Four Seasons and travel everywhere by helicopter.
Not sure why the person is bragging about spending 10 to 15 dollars a day. Staying in the cheapest rooms and only doing the cheapest activities is a boring limited way to travel.
hey! very helpful article, so thank you.. i would also like to ask your advice about backpacking to thailand, in jan 2014.. could you maybe provide some rough idea? since we are students, the usual budget and time constraints.. i will be starting from delhi and this should be a 14 day trip in all.. thanks!
Tina,
I’m not exactly sure what advice you are looking for, but I’ll take a shot anyway. In two weeks, starting in Thailand, I think you should see Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Siem Reap (nearby in Cambodia), and a few days on one of the Thai islands. Once you get there, you can get by on as little as US$20 per person per day and still have a good time, as long as you are willing to sleep in dorm beds in hostels, and eat mainly street food (which is fantastic and ubiquitous in Thailand). You’d also be spending a bit of money on trains or buses or ferries to get around, and those tend to be cheap as well.
If you have more to spend you can stay in some hotels instead of hostels, and even save time by buying cheap flights on AirAsia well in advance between some of the stops. Again, this was just a guess as to what you were asking. Please let me know if you have other questions and I’ll try to help. -Roger
Hello Wade.You provide a practical guide and budget for travelling.Im just curious to know if these prices also acccomodate peak times such as December and January?
I am in a similar position as Tina,the person who asked the question above.
Maby you could give me advice.I have a month to travel Thailand and maby Laos starting in late December.Could you provide a basic route or itinierary of where to go to avoid high costs during this period.
More importantly,Do you know of any islands that offer good cheap snorkelling during the peak seasons?
Phuket seems to be expensive for Snorkelling and snorkelling tours.
Thanks.
Also
Also (Asianut),
The accommodation prices for the Backpacker Index are usually based on an April stay, mostly because April is shoulder season in pretty much the whole world. But April is still busy in most of Asia, including Southeast Asia, so the prices for dorm beds are actually quite similar. In other words, you might find that a bed in a hostel is a few dollars more in December or January than is shown on the list, but the prices for transportation, attractions, food, and drinks will be the same.
As for a cheap and interesting itinerary, there are some pretty well trodden routes that many people take, partly because there is good infrastructure connecting the popular stops. Here’s one I recommend:
Start in Bangkok and spend at least a few days there. Do at least a day trip, if not an overnight stop in Ayutthaya, which is only 2 hours away by train.
Once you are ready to leave the Bangkok area, head to Siem Reap in Cambodia for 3 of the best days of your whole trip. From there it’s a little complicated to go to Vientiane, Laos, but you can do it. One night there is enough, and then take a bus to Vang Vieng, which is gorgeous and has really cleaned up its act in the last couple years. After a few days there, take a bus to Luang Prabang for about two or three days.
From Luang Prabang you can take the famous slow boat ride back to the Thai border, and then to Chiang Mai a couple hours away by bus. The good thing about going this direction is that most people go the other way, and the slow boat can be really crowded, but going this way you’ll have half the boat to yourself.
The city of Chiang Mai is fun, and cheap, but it’s kind of ugly. So stay there for a few days but do treks and other trips to nearby sights instead of just hanging around.
From Chiang Mai you can either take a train back to Bangkok, or a cheap flight on Air Asia to one of its stops in southern Thailand, such as Surat Thani. Phuket is indeed a bit expensive, and it’s really not that interesting. Instead you could go to Ko Samui and/or Ko Phangan. Both of those are really fun, and have better budget options in accommodation as well as activities like snorkeling.
The above will keep you in really interesting places that are also quite cheap, even in high season. You can get a meal from a street vendor for between US$1 and US$2 almost anywhere in Thailand if you look around a bit. Alcohol is very cheap in Cambodia and Laos, but not so much in Thailand, by the way.
Hopefully this helps and is something like what you were looking for. I also highly recommend using travelfish.org for planning in this area as well as for asking questions on the forums. It’s by far the best resource out there in this region. -Roger
I see your point guys but keep in mind that not all of these people are honest and not all of them are poor. I don’t mind helping people and paying more as long as I’m supporting someone who truly needs it. There’s a lot of scammers not forced by situation but driven by greed and they are getting richer thanks to foreign travellers having their 3rd world country moment. I’ve seen too many naive travellers falling for the same stories and being parted with their money. The money that will never make it’s way to the ones in need.
Where did you take these prices from? Web search? Have you been there? If you have, why didn’t you try haggling? Or were you charged more because you trusted the smiley faces who thought of you as another naive foreigner? I always pay prices as close as possible to what the locals would pay. Here are some examples from my recent experience of traveling on a budget in Asia-US$15/day in Kuala Lumpur,US$12 in Phnom Penh,S$12 in Delhi,US$12in Mumbai,US$10 in Goa,US$12 in Luan Prabang,US$15 in Chiang Mai.
Matyida,
I’ve been to all of these cities, most of them recently, but things like hostel and attraction prices are available online as well. I appreciate you taking the time to comment, but I’m afraid you’ve missed the entire point of this list. It’s not a contest to see how little foreigners can survive on each day, it’s a comparison of typical tourist costs in each city. Did you haggle your way aboard the monorail in Kuala Lumpur? Or do you haggle for beer prices in restaurants that are already cheap? -Roger
everyone likes to save money but please keep in mind some of these vendors are in hot heat all day and don’t have much in life. so better to just let them have that extra 10-20 cents they are charging you.
(I agree, thanks John. -Roger)
Matyida,
Well done, you’ve managed to fleece vendors in very poor countries. I concur that it can be frustrating to be charged the ‘inflated’ tourist price, but I do question your motivation for traveling in the first place, if you see the locals you come into contact with as nothing more than tricksters. Being charged higher prices is the norm in such countries – and many foreign tourists and vendors do so with a sense of humour about it all – it is still cheap afterall! At least there is an opportunity to haggle, unlike in Europe and the US where you are expected to tip, on top of everything else, even if the service is poor!
Roger, thanks for the post – very useful.
Your site is promising.
To those who think that negotiating is “fleecing” you might send me your excess money. Or better save up for some education.
I suggest economics for understanding the markets, and something to help you work through your post-colonial guilt – a buddhist pilgrimage and meditation retreat for instance.
If you still feel a bit bad “ripping off the locals” pay your excess money to a volunteer & tourism job provider and “work” in a poor village for 6 months that has been deprived of your extra few nickels a day.
I agree with this list even though I believe Philippines should have been ranked high, but none the less great list 😀
Hello, I currently live in Taiyuan, China and have a friend whom currently lives in Kuwait. I would like to pick somewhere south-east Asia to meet for a week holiday together. Where would be a good choice according to price for flights and stuff? and do you know any good places to book this trip. I was thinking early February.
Thanks
Stephanie, You’ll find the cheapest flights to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, but Bangkok is probably a better choice because Thailand tends to be a bit cheaper and you still have close access to holiday islands and temples and trekking, plus many great party spots. -Roger
planning to travel for two person in asia(4days & 3nlghts) bubget is 65000rs.,advice me two cities in this budget & duration for the month of dec.
thanks
Kiran, please let me know which currency you are using for 65000 and I’ll be happy to help. Also, do you have to be near a beach? That usually makes it more expensive, but not always. -Roger
I hv travelled most places in asia in very very economical price.
I can give u details. 3 countries, 10 days, 2 people, cost 75000 rupees.
Including train tickets, flight tickets, hotel rent, visa fee food &
sight-seeing expenses.
Thailand, malaysia & singapore. All 3 in Rs. 35000/person.
Im not a travel agent but i can guide u.
Hello Hemank
Can you please share how did you manage to travel cheap?
I am also planning for the next year, but money is always a constraint.
please help.
Kiran I Think Singapore will be best for you 2.According To My Suggestion.Cheap,Reasonable,And Lots Of Fun Thing.