Asia, the world's largest continent, is home to a dazzling array of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. For budget-conscious travellers, it offers some of the best value destinations on the planet. From bustling cities to tranquil countryside, there's a wide range without breaking the bank.
Flights to Asia
Getting to Asia can be expensive, but with some flexibility and planning, you can find great deals. Low-cost carriers such as AirAsia and Scoot often have promotional fares, especially if you're willing to travel in the off-season or have flexible dates.
- Example: A return flight from London to Bangkok can be found for as little as £300.
Visas and Vaccinations
Visa requirements and costs vary greatly across Asia. Some countries offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival options for short stays, while others require advance applications. Always check the latest requirements for your nationality.
Similarly, vaccination requirements vary. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic before you go.
Accommodation
Asia has a wide range of affordable accommodation options. Hostels can be found in most cities and tourist areas, often for less than £5 per night. For a more authentic experience, consider staying in a guesthouse or homestay, which can often be found for around £10-15 per night.
Food and Drink
Asian cuisine is renowned for its flavour and diversity. Street food is a staple in many countries, offering delicious meals for as little as £1. In restaurants, you can expect to pay around £3-5 for a main meal.
Transport
Public transport in Asia is extensive and affordable. In cities, metro systems are often the best option, with tickets costing as little as £0.20. For longer distances, buses and trains are cheap and reliable, often costing less than £10 for a several-hour journey.
Activities
Asia is full of cultural and natural attractions. Many museums and historical sites have low admission fees, often less than £2. For outdoor activities, national parks and nature reserves typically charge around £5 for a day pass.
Cheap Destinations in Asia
Here are some of the cheapest destinations in Asia, based on average daily costs:
- India: £15-20
- Nepal: £20-25
- Sri Lanka: £25-30
- Thailand: £25-30
- Vietnam: £20-25
- Indonesia: £20-25
Booking: where to look
We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.
- Airalo — eSIM data the moment you land, no SIM swap
- Saily — Travel eSIM with per-country plans
- Yesim — eSIM covering multiple countries on one plan
Budget Travel Tips for Asia
- Eat like a local: Street food and local markets offer some of the best and most affordable meals.
- Use public transport: It's cheap, efficient, and a great way to experience local life.
- Stay in hostels or guesthouses: They're social, affordable, and often offer great local advice.
- Bargain: Haggling is expected in many Asian markets and shops.
- Travel in the off-season: Prices can be significantly lower, and crowds thinner.
Asia is a continent of contrasts, where you can find both ancient civilisations and modern metropolises, serene temples and bustling markets. With some planning and flexibility, it's possible to experience all this and more on a budget.
