Southeast Asia
Vietnam
Motorbike through rice terraces, sleep on overnight trains, and eat like royalty for a few dollars a day — Vietnam remains one of the best-value countries on earth.
Vietnam is the benchmark for budget travel in Southeast Asia. A bowl of pho costs less than a coffee back home, dorm beds run $4–7 a night, and a full day of sightseeing rarely dents $20.
Why it’s cheap
Local transport, street food, and guesthouses are priced for Vietnamese wages, and the exchange rate stretches every dollar. Even mid-range hotels and private tours are a fraction of Western prices.
Getting around
Overnight sleeper trains and buses connect the length of the country for $10–25 and double as free accommodation. Motorbike rental is cheap and popular for exploring at your own pace, especially along the coast and through the northern mountains.
Where budget meets comfort
Hoi An, Ninh Binh, and Da Lat all offer boutique-feeling guesthouses well under $15 a night, and the food scene means you’ll eat well no matter your budget.
Related guides
2-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary for Under $1000
A realistic 14-day route through Vietnam and Thailand covering flights, transport, food, and lodging for under $1000 all-in.
The Ultimate Budget Guide to Vietnam
How to travel Vietnam on $25 a day or less, from overnight trains and street food to the best-value regions for first-time backpackers.