A practical guide to exploring Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia without breaking the bank. Budget tips, cheap eats, and free experiences.
Southeast Asia remains one of the world's greatest travel bargains. With careful planning, $30 a day covers a comfortable bed, three delicious meals, and transportation — often with change to spare.
Where to sleep
Guesthouses and budget hostels in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia typically run $5–$12 per night. Look beyond the main tourist drags — a five-minute walk from a popular street can halve the price. Fan rooms are usually perfectly comfortable and significantly cheaper than air-conditioned options.
Eat where the locals eat
Street food is the beating heart of Southeast Asian culture — and your budget's best friend. A bowl of phở in Hanoi costs around $1.50. A plate of pad thai from a Bangkok cart is $1–$2. Sit-down restaurants near tourist sights can charge ten times more for the same quality.
- Follow the office workers at lunchtime — they know the best spots
- Markets and food courts offer variety and value
- Avoid restaurants with photos on the menu near major landmarks
Getting around
Overnight buses and trains between cities are your friend — you save a night's accommodation while you travel. Domestic flights on budget carriers like AirAsia are worth checking for longer hauls. In cities, use Grab (the regional Uber) rather than negotiating with unmetered taxis.