25 Best Places To Travel Outside The US on a Budget in 2025

Last Updated: August 31, 2025

Tweet

Traveling beyond the US doesn’t have to mean draining your savings. With a little planning, you can step into worlds rich in history, culture, and breathtaking nature—all while staying within a budget that makes sense. From Himalayan peaks to Mediterranean coastlines, 2025 is full of destinations where every dollar stretches further, letting you experience more without compromising on quality.
This curated list focuses on countries that blend affordability with unforgettable experiences. You’ll find mountain adventures, tropical beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant cities—all accessible to budget travelers who still want depth, diversity, and a touch of magic in their journeys.

Best Places To Travel Outside The US

Whether you dream of trekking in the Himalayas , exploring ancient temples, or lounging on pristine beaches, there’s a destination here that fits both your travel style and your budget. Each place offers unique highlights, affordable accommodations, and cultural experiences worth the trip.

Nepal

Where snow-capped peaks meet centuries-old temples, Nepal offers a blend of spiritual depth and outdoor adventure. Trek the Annapurna Circuit, visit Kathmandu’s Boudhanath Stupa, or unwind by Pokhara’s serene lakeside—all at costs that keep your wallet happy.

Sri Lanka

An island of contrasts, Sri Lanka packs in golden beaches, lush tea hills, and ancient Buddhist cities. Ride the scenic train from Kandy to Ella, watch elephants in Minneriya, and enjoy $2 street food feasts.

Thailand

Thailand invites you into a world of vibrant night markets, ornate temples, and tropical islands. From the buzzing streets of Bangkok to the calm mountains of Chiang Mai, it’s a budget-friendly playground for culture and relaxation.

Kenya

For wildlife lovers, Kenya’s Maasai Mara delivers the drama of the Great Migration, while Amboseli offers views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Affordable lodges and group safari options make this bucket-list trip more accessible than you’d think.

Guatemala

A land where volcanoes frame colonial streets, Guatemala offers the ancient ruins of Tikal, colorful markets, and tranquil Lake Atitlán. Its affordability makes long stays possible for slow travelers.

Costa Rica

Nature comes alive in Costa Rica’s rainforests, beaches, and volcanoes. Spot sloths in Manuel Antonio, zip-line through Monteverde, and enjoy eco-friendly hostels starting at just $15 a night.

Ecuador

Compact yet diverse, Ecuador spans the Amazon, the Andes, and the Galapagos. Visit Quito’s UNESCO-listed old town, hike Cotopaxi Volcano, or snorkel with sea lions—all on a budget-friendly itinerary.

Peru

From Machu Picchu to the Amazon Basin, Peru layers ancient history with jaw-dropping landscapes. Cusco’s markets, Lake Titicaca’s floating islands, and affordable trekking options make it a top choice for 2025.

Vietnam

Halong Bay’s emerald waters, Hanoi’s street food culture, and Sapa’s rice terraces make Vietnam a feast for the senses—without straining your travel funds.

Cambodia

Home to Angkor Wat, Cambodia offers ancient wonders, warm hospitality, and some of Southeast Asia’s lowest travel costs. Sunrise at Angkor is worth every early morning yawn.

Indonesia

Beyond Bali’s beaches, Indonesia reveals Komodo dragons, volcanic hikes, and over 17,000 islands to explore. Guesthouses and local meals keep costs low.

Morocco

From Marrakech’s maze-like souks to the Sahara’s golden dunes, Morocco is a sensory adventure. Affordable riads make it easy to stay in the heart of the action.

South Africa

Cape Town’s Table Mountain, penguin-filled beaches, and wine country offer variety at reasonable prices. Hostels and local dining keep your daily spend low.

Tanzania

Safari through the Serengeti or unwind in Zanzibar’s turquoise waters. Shared tours and budget lodges make even big adventures accessible.

Turkey

Straddling two continents, Turkey mixes ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and coastal beauty. Don’t miss Cappadocia’s sunrise balloon rides.

Portugal

Lisbon’s tram rides, Porto’s riverside charm, and the Algarve’s beaches prove that Europe can be affordable. Street food and budget guesthouses help keep costs in check.

Greece

Beyond Santorini’s sunsets, Greece’s lesser-known islands and historical sites offer beauty without high-season prices.

Croatia

Swim along the Dalmatian coast, wander Dubrovnik’s medieval streets, and explore Plitvice Lakes—often for less than Western Europe.

Egypt

The pyramids, the Nile, and the Red Sea offer history and nature at bargain prices. Multi-day tours can be surprisingly affordable.

Brazil

From Rio’s beaches to Iguazu Falls, Brazil pulses with energy. Street eats and local buses make it a budget-friendly option.

Argentina

Tango in Buenos Aires, hike in Patagonia, and indulge in steak dinners that don’t break the bank.

Chile

Stretching from the Atacama Desert to glacial Patagonia, Chile is a land of contrasts. Buses and budget hostels make long-distance travel doable.

Iceland

Chase the Northern Lights, soak in hot springs, and explore otherworldly landscapes. With careful planning, even Iceland can be done affordably.

Spain

Tapas in Seville, Gaudí’s masterpieces in Barcelona, and sunny beaches along the Costa del Sol offer variety at fair prices outside peak season.

New Zealand

Known for its wild beauty, New Zealand offers fjords, mountains, and adventure sports. Hostels and campervans help keep costs low.

Conclusion: How to Find Places to Travel Outside the US on a Budget

Traveling internationally doesn’t have to be a luxury—it can be a lifestyle choice if you know where to look. The destinations above offer a range of experiences, from cultural deep dives to outdoor adventures, all while keeping costs reasonable for the mindful traveler.
The key is matching your personal interests with countries that naturally support your budget. Whether it’s trekking through Nepal’s Himalayas, savoring street food in Thailand, or watching the sun set over Santorini, your next affordable adventure is waiting—you just have to take the first step.

FAQs

Q1. What is the cheapest country to travel to from the US in 2025?

Guatemala, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam rank among the most budget-friendly.

Q2. Do I need a visa for these destinations?

Many offer visa-free entry or affordable visas on arrival for US citizens.

Q3. How can I save more on international travel?

Travel in shoulder seasons, use public transport, and book accommodations early.

To share this link:

Copy Link >>