Overview
Asia, the world’s largest continent, spans an almost incomprehensible range of experiences — from the ancient temples of Angkor Wat and the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the Himalayan peaks of Nepal and the tropical beaches of Thailand. With 48 countries, thousands of languages, and the world’s most diverse culinary traditions, Asia rewards every type of traveler. It is also home to the planet’s best budget travel, with Southeast Asia and South Asia offering extraordinary experiences at remarkably low costs.
Currencies and costs vary enormously. Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines) can be traveled for $20-$50/day. South Asia (India, Nepal, Sri Lanka) is similarly affordable at $15-$40/day. East Asia (Japan, South Korea, Taiwan) runs $80-$200/day. The Middle East and Central Asia fall somewhere in between. Shoulder seasons vary by region, so research your specific destinations.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Budget ($15-$50/day): Stay in hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels ($5-$25/night), eat street food and at local restaurants ($2-$8/day), use local buses, trains, and tuk-tuks ($0.20-$5), and explore temples, markets, and natural wonders for minimal entrance fees.
Mid-Range ($50-$120/day): Book mid-range hotels ($30-$80/night), dine at restaurants ($10-$25/day), fly between countries on budget airlines ($30-$150), and add guided tours, cooking classes, and cultural experiences ($15-$50).
Luxury ($200-$500+/day): Reserve luxury hotels and resorts ($100-$400+/night), enjoy fine dining ($30-$80/day), fly business class or take private transfers ($100-$400), and book exclusive experiences like private temple tours and yacht charters ($100-$500).
How to Save Money in Asia
- Focus on Southeast Asia and South Asia where $20-$50/day covers comfortable travel with excellent food and accommodation.
- Eat street food — it is often the best food available, freshly prepared, and costs $1-$3 per meal.
- Use overnight trains and buses to combine transport and accommodation into one cost ($5-$30).
- Book budget airlines (AirAsia, VietJet, IndiGo, Cebu Pacific) for cheap flights between countries ($30-$100).
- Negotiate transportation prices before getting in — tuk-tuks, rickshaws, and taxis often have flexible pricing.
Worth the Splurge
- A multi-day trek to Everest Base Camp in Nepal or through the rice terraces of Sapa, Vietnam ($30-$80/day with guide).
- A cooking class in Thailand, Vietnam, or India — learn to make local specialties you can recreate at home ($15-$40).
- Temple sunrise at Angkor Wat, Cambodia — one of humanity’s greatest architectural achievements ($37 one-day pass).
- A traditional Japanese ryokan stay with kaiseki dinner and onsen hot spring bath ($100-$300/night all-inclusive).