5 Best Budget Friendly Destinations to Travel

Looking for an incredible holiday without breaking the bank? Here are the top five budget friendly destinations to travel, where the Australian dollar stretches further, giving you more bang for your buck!

Hội An, Vietnam

1. Vietnam

• Why go? Vietnam is one of the most affordable destinations in Asia, where budget travellers can easily explore on less than $50 a day. Delicious street food meals cost as little as $2, and accommodation and transport are incredibly cheap. Whether you’re cruising through Ha Long Bay or wandering the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, your travel dollars will stretch far.
• Flights: Return flights from Australia are often under $800, especially outside peak season.
• Exchange Rate: The Australian dollar holds strong against the Vietnamese Dong (VND), making everything from food to transport incredibly affordable.

Here is an tour to Vietnam that delivers amazing value.

Phuket, Thailand

2. Thailand

• Why go? Thailand is a top destination for budget travellers thanks to its low-cost transport, cheap and tasty street food, and a wide range of affordable activities. From $2 pad thai in Bangkok to budget-friendly island hopping, you can experience Thailand’s beauty without overspending. Public transport and domestic flights are also reasonably priced.
• Flights: Direct flights from Australia are frequent and cost-friendly, often under $600 return.
• Exchange Rate: The Thai Baht (THB) offers good value for Australians, making Thailand one of the cheapest destinations in Southeast Asia.

Check out this budget option to explore Thailand.

Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo, Sri Lanka

3. Sri Lanka

• Why go? Sri Lanka is a hidden gem for budget travellers, offering stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and ancient ruins at incredibly low prices. Local meals cost around $3, and public transport, including scenic train rides, is extremely cheap. Even safaris and cultural sites are far more affordable compared to other destinations.
• Flights: Return flights start at approximately $600.
• Exchange Rate: The AUD goes far in Sri Lanka, allowing for luxurious experiences at a fraction of the cost in Australia.

Explore Sri Lanka for less than $1,000 here.

Shanghai, China

4. China

• Why go? While China has major cities that can be expensive, travelling on a budget is very possible. Public transport is highly efficient and cheap, with high-speed train tickets costing far less than equivalent flights. Street food, dumpling shops, and local restaurants serve filling meals for just a few dollars, making China an affordable cultural and historical experience.
• Flights: Direct flights from Australia are frequent and competitively priced.
• Exchange Rate: The AUD holds steady against the Chinese Yuan (CNY), making it an excellent choice for budget travellers.

Check out this budget friendly tour to China.

Asakusa in Tokyo, Japan

5. Japan

• Why go? Despite its reputation for high costs, Japan can be explored on a budget with careful planning. The AUD is currently strong against the Yen, making it a great time to visit. Convenience store meals, affordable business hotels, and regional rail passes help keep costs down, while many shrines, temples, and cultural sights are free to visit.
• Flights: Return flights from Australia start at $800 if booked during sales.
• Exchange Rate: The AUD is currently strong against the Yen (JPY), making now a great time to visit.

See Japan without breaking the bank with this tour.

So to wrap up here are the four main points you should take away to get the most value when booking a holiday:

✔ Book flights early to get the best deals
✔ Travel during off-peak seasons for better rates
✔ Use public transport instead of taxis
✔ Enjoy street food and local markets for authentic and affordable meals

Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on incredible experiences. Whether you’re craving the cultural richness of Vietnam, the tropical paradise of Thailand, or the historical wonders of China and Japan, these budget friendly destinations offer outstanding value for Australian travellers. Start planning your next trip and make the most of your travel budget!