Visiting countries across the globe doesn’t have to be expensive in 2026. The cheapest countries to visit in 2026 include those with low costs for accommodations and dining, favorable exchange rates, and more. Regardless if you’re a solo traveler who enjoys hostels or a family looking for the occasional resort on a world tour, the top ten cheapest countries in 2026 to visit prove that you can get more for your money without spending it all.
1. Vietnam
Vietnam continues to be one of the best affordable countries to visit in Southeast Asia as street food is less than $1-2, guesthouses are between $10-15/ night, and transportation is significantly cheaper than in the United States. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay and Hoi An’s lantern-lit evenings, you don’t have to go far to create amazing memories. Expect to pay $25-35 a day while there.
2. India
India is one of the most affordable countries to visit thanks to the high value of food, culture, and exploration opportunities like the Taj Mahal, colorful markets, and the spiritual aspects of India (such as Rishikesh). Street food can be found for pennies, transportation is cheap, and a budget traveler can easily explore India for around $20-30/ day. It’s easy here to get genuine hospitality.
3. Bolivia
When in South America, Bolivia is the most affordable country for travel with incredible scenery and culture. From the Uyuni Salt Flats to the streets of La Paz, there is plenty to explore at an affordable cost. Meals for travelers are about $2-4, hostels are about $5-10/ night, and even tours are affordable across the board. Expect a budget of $25-35/ day for just about everything while traveling here.
4. Guatemala
Guatemala is an affordable country that offers both Mayan history, volcanoes, and colonial architecture. From Lake Atitlán to Antigua and Tikal, tourists can travel the country without breaking the bank, as accommodations are anywhere from $10-15/night, meals range from $3-5 per meal, and transportation is cheap. Expect a comfortable daily budget of $30-40.
5. Nepal
Nepal is very affordable for those seeking trekking routes and spirituality; it makes the list for one of the best countries to visit in Asia. From temples in Kathmandu to lakes in Pokhara and breathtaking Himalayan treks, it’s easy to find lodging on a budget of $5-10/night, meals for under $3, and even guided treks at affordable rates. Expect to spend $20-30/ day (permits for bigger treks not included).
6. Egypt
Egypt makes history incredibly affordable; many tourists believe that ancient wonders will be exorbitantly priced until they set foot in Egypt. The Great Pyramids of Giza, Luxor Temples, and even Nile cruises are all within reach of most budgets; meals are $2-4, hotels start at $15-25/ night, and entrance fees are low and often combined with other historical sites (expected daily budget between $30-45).
7. Indonesia (Beyond Bali)
While Bali may be experiencing price hikes as it becomes more widely known, skip Bali for now and explore the other islands of Indonesia—Java, Lombok, Flores, and Sumatra—for great accommodations at $8-15/ night, local food for $2-3, and local transportation that won’t break the bank. Borobudur Temple, Komodo National Park, and more await you with a limited budget of $25-35/ day.
8. Poland
Poland is one of the most affordable destinations to visit in all of Eastern Europe; from medieval cities steeped in history to hearty foods and cuisines, you can find yourself in Krakow then Warsaw, Gdansk without spending too much per day. Accommodations start at $10-15/ night, meals are about $5-8, and public transportation is easily accessible at low rates. A Polish hotel budget should total around $40-50/ day.
9. Albania
Albania remains one of Europe’s most affordable countries thanks to its Mediterranean shores, mountainous scenery, and towns without all of the tourist bling. Instead of paying more for touristy towns that overcharge foreigners, enjoy accommodations at $15-20/ night, meals for about $5-8, and activities with a daily budget of about $35-45.
10. Laos
Laos is one of the most affordable countries to explore thanks to its laid-back vibe along with access to beautiful landscapes and Buddhist temples. Guest houses will cost about $8-15/ night; meals are expected to cost about $2-4; activities such as tubing down rivers and temple exploration are incredibly affordable. Expect a daily budget of about $25-35.
The Bottom Line
Traveling on a budget does not mean pinching pennies in 2026; it means visiting countries where you can get more bang for your buck. The ten cheapest countries on this list offer amazing experiences, beautiful landscapes at affordable costs, making traveling on any budget to these ten countries a true pleasure. Whether you’re looking for the best deals in Southeast Asia or Eastern Europe’s undiscovered cities—2026 is your year!