Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Backpack

Nepal

In Nepal, you'll have a wonderful experience if you're looking for classic Asian culture and tropical nature. Trekking in the undeveloped countryside, you will be able to enjoy the country's organic and beautiful Asian heritage. Head to Bhaktapur in the Kathmandu Valley, and don't miss the sacred Hindu and Buddhist temples, like famous Pashupatinath, Budhanilkantha, and Manakamana. For many backpackers, even one month is not enough to soak in the peaceful aura.

Thailand

Thailand is definitely the ideal destination for college backpackers who are seeking a place with both a rich culture and an affordable location. Not to mention the local Thai cuisine … it's too good to ever pass up. You can also go for an authentic Thai iced tea at the roadside stores. The basic daily expense for food and accommodations is as low as $20. The country’s spirit is in its Buddhist temples and architectural masterpieces, both full of Thai history. Check out Wat Phra Kaeo temple, Wat Arun temple, Wat Benchamabophit temple, and Grand Palace in Bangkok. Try Thai boxing if you're interested in very unique sports.

India

Backpacking India is easy and inexpensive. Food, accommodations, and travel are very cheap compared to other places around the world. Backpackers' hostels are located in all the major cities and many touring guides appeal to college travelers as well. Backpacking India means leaving luxuries like hot water and air-conditioning at home in exchange for some pretty incredible sites and people.

Sri Lanka

Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, is the most popular city to visit here. Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte is actually the capital of the country and worth a visit as well. The Buddha statues and Galle Face Green promenade in Colombo are awesome. You will feel as though you have traveled to another time and place when you come to Sri Lanka. The people are very friendly and willing to meet your needs.

Costa Rica

Volcanoes, national parks, wildlife, pure lakes, blue sea, golden beaches, Caribbean culture, and relatively low cost: Costa Rica fits a backpacker's expectations. Corcovado National Park is one of the best rainforest national parks to adventure and is probably the most popular site for visitors. But if you want to find a paradise that is quieter, Palo Verde National Park could be the spot. Bring your telephoto lens to capture the moment of volcanic eruption and the flocks of big colorful birds unlike any you've seen before. Don't forget your swimsuit, since you have countless chances to play in waterfalls, swimming holes, and natural hot springs.

Turkey

Turkey has been pinned on the map by student travelers more and more because of its spectacular landscapes, its food, and its affordability. The artery that links Asia and Europe, Turkey is a mix of Western and Eastern cultures. The commercial capital Istanbul used to be the political capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine empires and now is an iconic city that could be your place to start backpacking. Besides the Hagia Sophia museum, the Chora Church, and Istanbul's Old Town, head to the Grand Bazaar food market, one of the top food bazaars in the world. This market dates back to the 15th century and has over 4,000 stores stretched out—it's the best place to meet locals and discover Middle Eastern foods.

Peru

Peru is really an amazing place to visit. When choosing where to backpack inexpensively, consider this place. Rainforests, ruins, and beaches are plentiful. Lima, the capital, is a good place to start your trip if you don’t have a game plan—the cool part about Peru is that you don’t really need a plan. Just have a map, a little Spanish under your belt, and a good pair of hiking shoes. You’re all set for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Nicaragua

Before Nicaragua becomes a crowded and expensive travel destination, grab your map and get onboard! Nicaragua is a blend of wildness and peace, full of colonial cultures and fabulous natural views. Granada, where you will see those unique colonial buildings, is a must-go. With just a 20-minute driving distance from Granada, Laguna de Apoyo, a volcanic lake in Masaya, is another site that cannot be missed. December through February is the best time to travel this area, as the highest temperature is no more than 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Indonesia

In Indonesia, you can enjoy mysterious rainforests, silver beaches, and crystal-clear green seas without swiping your credit card too frequently. There are thousands of islands that you can pick from to explore the jungles and enjoy the sunshine. If you are scratching your head about where to start, head to Sumatra. Lake Maninjau, Harau Valley at Abdi Homestay (west Sumatra), and Tangkahan (north Sumatra) are all places where you can sleep in cozy lodges, listen to the wild monkeys’ calls, take in the morning mist, and read books in front of a waterfall. You can even enjoy an elephant trek at Tangkahan village—it's a lot of fun. If you prefer the sea activities, the island of Sumba is a good option for snorkeling, surfing, fishing, and doing yoga on beautiful beaches.

Albania

If Italy and Greece are too expensive for you to travel, Albania is a good alternative. Living expenses there are much, much cheaper, but the Mediterranean views are the same. Albania has a rich architectural and cultural heritage from its historical relationships with Greece, Rome, the Ottoman Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Italy, and France. In Tirana, the capital, you can visit many historical sites and museums and hike on the Mount Dajti for a fantastic bird's-eye view. For sunshine and golden sands, go to Dhermi or Jala beach and you might feel like you're in Greece when you're lying down, soaking in the sunshine.

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