Backpacking Southeast Asia can be a big task as the majority of travellers take on a few countries in one trip. But it is worth all the planning because backpacking Southeast Asia is one of the best backpacking trips you can do. What currency does each country use? How do I get around? What about across borders? But what you’ll be wondering most is the backpacking Southeast Asia cost. That’s what this backpacking Southeast Asia budget guide will show you.
No need to fret, I break it down into a daily budget for travelling Southeast Asia for each country. What you won’t find here is a shoestring budget. I don’t believe in going somewhere just to see the bare minimum, not indulge in nice dinners, a night out or to a try really cool activity. This budget is realistic, it will let you have all the fun you want to have without going too crazy.
So how much does it cost to backpack Southeast Asia? This certainly isn’t a luxury budget but you won’t miss out on the top activities or a little splurge when you need it.
Before we even get into budgeting for each country, there are a few things that need to be budgeted for first.
All prices are quoted in USD. Prices are to give you a general idea of what to budget but as prices change I can not guarantee that they are always accurate.
Flights
Booking flights can be very fun or not at all when it comes to budgeting. From North America a one-way flight on average costs around $600. But you can always find amazing round-trip deals on SecretFlying.
Your best bet is to look for flights to Bangkok or Singapore, both are very popular places to fly into southeast Asia and often times the prices are lower. If you have no idea when you’re coming back, book a one-way ticket and watch for deals once you have a general idea.
If flying within Asia use budget airlines such as AirAsia, Nok Air, TigerAir and VietJet Air.
I personally use and recommend using the search feature on Skyscanner that allows you to search for an entire month, that way you can choose to fly on the cheapest days.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are a cost to backpack Southeast Asia are always an added expense that many people don’t plan for. And boy can they take a dent out of your backpacking budget.
Depending on the vaccination it can cost anywhere from $25 to hundreds as some shots are just a simple one-time shot, others you need multiple. Malaria pills can be quite costly as well, costing a couple dollars a pill. A travel clinic consultation will set you back around $25-50.
Don’t skip on this as vaccines are recommended for areas at different periods throughout the year. Some vaccinations also need to be done weeks in advance so get doing your research! This site can be used as a general guideline for what you may need.
I can’t quote the costs precisely as they vary around the world. But if you’re lucky some insurance does cover travel vaccinations. Your best bet is to set aside $400 (though it could cost way more) in case you decide to get all of the vaccinations and if you don’t then that’s extra spending money.
Please consult a doctor or nurse for costs and vaccine recommendations before you travel Southeast Asia. I can not advise you on what to get as I am not a medical professional.
Visas
Visas vary from country to country with some being completely free and others costing upwards of $50. Visas differ in price and regulations such as length of stay for different countries so always check official sources to help you budget. Most countries will also ask for you to pay for a visa in USD. Some require you to purchase a visa online in advance or some you receive upon entering the country. Some you will need passport pictures for and some differ in length based on if you’re coming into the country by air or land.
Examples:
Thailand: Free, issued on arrival
Cambodia: $30, pay and issued on arrival
Vietnam: Fees differ depending on how you’re entering the country, visas must be applied for in advance
Laos: Varies from $30-42, pay and issued on arrival
Myanmar: $50, visit the official site to apply in advance
Singapore: Free, issued on arrival
Note that you do not always have to apply for visas online, you can also obtain a visa from the embassy’s but this usually takes a few days so plan in advance!
I can not guarantee that these prices are exact, please visit each country’s official website for more info as prices differ for citizens of different countries.
Travel Insurance for a Southeast Asia Trip
Things to Know When Backpacking Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia tours can also be done however those are much more costly than if you were to plan the trip yourself. 1-3 day tours are quite common depending on the destinations and are very affordable but definitely are the most expensive thing you’ll need to plan for.
The best way to travel Southeast Asia varies per country, based on your time limit and your budget. You can travel by plane, train, buses and boats.
The most expensive things to buy in Southeast Asia that you’ll need regularly are sunscreen and bug spray. Stock up before you leave!
Why not volunteer?
There are so many opportunities to volunteer in Southeast Asia whether it be at a holistic centre, a hostel, a surf camp, teaching English, working with an NGO, farming, or assisting in an eco-village, there are countless ways that you give back to a community, extend your trip, and truly have an experience of a lifetime.
If you’re interested in volunteering in any capacity I highly recommend checking out Worldpackers because they have SO MANY opportunities not only in Southeast Asia but across the world. You get to join a community that connects you with wonderful hosts and even provide volunteer insurance!
Plus, as a reader of Taylor’s Tracks you get a $10 discount when you sign up using the code TAYLORSTRACKS!
Southeast Asia Backpacking Essentials
There are a few things that you will absolutely need while in Southeast Asia and I promise they won’t break your Southeast Asia backpacking budget.
Reef Safe Sunscreen: Yes, lots of places in Southeast Asia have coral and yes, you should be wearing coral safe sunscreen. I’m not here to lecture you on saving the earth and plants, you know that already. This is just a friendly reminder that you can keep you and the waters safe.
Adapter: Obvi. But seriously people always forget. I like to use a universal adapter so if you don’t have one already get one stat and never worry about it again!
Reusable Water Bottle: This is an essential for ANY trip but even more important for Southeast because recycling is not really a thing and when you see the plastic littering this beautiful place you’ll be sad that you’re contributing to the plastic issue. There are lots of places to fill up water bottles.
Mosquito Repelling Bracelets: These are a thing? Totally! Mosquitoes can get nasty in Southeast Asia and unfortunately can carry diseases. This is the healthiest option because they don’t use deet!
Activated Charcoal: When your tummy is not feeling so great and you may need to run to the bathroom at any second you’ll be happy this is within arms reach. Food issues happen in Southeast Asia and these will help you get back to health and enjoying your vacay in no time.
READ MORE: Southeast Asia Packing List for Ladies
Backpacking Southeast Asia Budget Breakdown by Country
This breakdown will give you a general idea of a backpacking Asia cost. It won’t help you with tips for how to travel Southeast Asia on a budget, but this will. However, you will have a pretty accurate backpacking Asia budget by the end.
Backpacking Thailand Budget
Currency Used: Thai Baht (THB) (฿)
DAILY BUDGET: $30-45
The lower end of the budget will get you around, going out once or twice a week for cheap drinks and doing activities that are not very pricey. The higher-end is more of a flashpacker budget that will allow you to go out a few nights a week, catch a cab or tuk-tuk occasionally and a western meal every so often.
It’s important to note that prices vary a lot in Thailand depending if you’re in a big city such as Bangkok or Chiang versus Pai or Sukhothai. Prices on the islands can be slightly more expensive as well, especially in tourist hotspots.
Some examples of the more expensive things you need to budget for are:
- The Grand Palace in Bangkok: 500 THB ($15)
- Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai: 2400 THB (full day visit) ($72)
- Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan: costs vary so do research as hostel prices go way up and there are entry fees to the parties
- Get Dive Certified on Koh Tao: 7500-10,000 THB ($225-300) (this also includes accommodation)
Hostels:
100-450 THB ($3-15) (depending on the place, Bangkok is the most expensive)
BOOK HOSTELS: Bangkok | Chiang Mai | Pai | Phuket | Koh Phi Phi | Koh Phangan | Koh Tao
1.5 Litre Bottle of Water:
13-20 THB at ($0.40-0.60) (many hostels always have free water so fill up!)
Big Beer at 7/11:
50-60 THB ($1.51-1.81)
Street Food:
50-150 THB ($1.51-4.53)
Big Beer at Restaurant:
120 THB ($3.62)
Restaurant Meal:
100-500 THB ($3-15)
Motorbike Rental (24 hours):
100-300 THB ($3.02-9.06) (price will vary depending on where, ex. Chiang Mai is more expensive than Pai)
Massage:
100-500 THB ($3-15) (depends on length and type of massage, foot, whole body, etc.)
Transport:
300-1500 THB ($9.06-55.40) (depending on bus, train or plane)
Read More on Thailand
- How to Plan the Perfect Thailand Itinerary
- Where to Stay in Bangkok on a Budget
- 32 Tips for Backpacking Thailand
Backpacking Cambodia Budget
Currency Used: Cambodian Riel (KHR)
DAILY BUDGET: $25-45
Cambodia travel is amazing as it is one of the cheapest destinations in Southeast Asia. The best part is that prices don’t vary as much, making it easy to plan and budget for. I found the cost of food and hostels to be pretty consistent no matter where I was in the country. It once used to be the home of $2 hostels but unfortunately, prices have gone up, still, you will be able to do pretty much everything you want on a low budget here.
It’s important to note that all prices listed here are in USD as that is the main currency used in the country. ATMs will dispense USD and Riel. All prices you will see are quoted in USD and you will receive large change in USD but smaller change in Riel and sometimes a mix of both!
Some examples of the more expensive things you need to budget for are:
- Entrance to Angkor Wat for 1 day: $37 (price as of February 1, 2017)
- Transport around Angkor Wat: $15 for a tuk-tuk (that you can split 4-ways)
- Tour of the Killing Fields and S-21 Museum in Phnom Penh: $16 (can also be split 4-ways)
- Tour of Koh Rong with Adventure Adam (seriously a must do): $25
Hostels:
$3-8 (depending on the place, Siem Reap is the most expensive)
BOOK HOSTELS: Phnom Penh | Siem Reap | Sihanoukville | Koh Rong
1.5 Litre Bottle of Water:
$1
Beer:
$1-2
Restaurant Meal:
$2.50-5
Buses Between Cities:
$6-20
Flights Between Major Cities:
$30-60
Read More on Cambodia
Backpacking Vietnam Budget
Currency Used: Vietnamese dong (VND)
DAILY BUDGET: $25-40
You can’t go wrong with Vietnam backpacking, it is a backpackers paradise! You will get the most bang for your buck here from the cheapest beer and dorms in southeast Asia to amazing budget sleeper buses, you won’t break the bank in Vietnam. This budget will get you through your day to day including transport but there are a few pricier activities in Vietnam.
Some examples of the more expensive things you need to budget for are:
- Halong Bay Boat Tour: $50-200+ (varies from budget-luxury and 1-3 day tours)
- Trekking in Sapa: $45 for 2 days with transport from Hanoi
Hostels:
$5-8 VND (most are around the $5 price point)
BOOK HOSTELS: Hanoi | Hoi An | Nha Trang | Mui Ne | Ho Chi Minh
Water:
4000-10,000 VND ($0.18-0.50)
Beer:
3500-30,000 VND ($0.16-1.20)
Street Food:
20,000-35,000 VND ($.80-1.50)
Restaurant Meal:
68,000-150,000 VND ($3-7)
Transport:
100,000-700,000 VND ($4-30) (depending on bus, train or plane and length of trip)
Read More on Vietnam
- Backpacking Vietnam on a Budget: 2-3 Week Itinerary + Tips
- Trekking in Sapa: The Good, the Bad and Landslides in Vietnam
Backpacking Indonesia Budget
Currency Used: Indonesia rupiah (Rp)
DAILY BUDGET: $25-40
The lower end of the budget will get you through Indonesia if you’re always staying in hostels, taking the cheapest transport, not doing a big activity everyday and eating mostly local food. The higher end of the budget will allow you to do major activities a couple of times a week, to occasionally splurge on more expensive accommodation and to eat more western food.
Some examples of the more expensive things you need to budget for are:
- Transport between islands: $18-72+ (varies depending on trip time, boat or flights)
- Visiting Komodo Island: $80+ (varies depending on if you choose to take the 4-day boat from Lombok or a 1-3 day trip from Labuan Bajo on Flores)
- Trekking Mount Rinjani: $150+ (vaies depending on length of trip and company you use)
Hostels:
100,000-180,000 Rp ($7-13) (depending on the place and level of luxury you’re after)
BOOK HOSTELS: Ubud | Canggu | Yogyakarta |Kuta (Lombok) | Gili T | Nusa Lembongan
1 Small Bottle of Water:
10,000-20,000 ($0.70-1.45) (most accommodation has free water so always fill up!)
Small/Big Beer:
25,000 Rp ($1.80)/50,000 Rp ($3.60)
Street Food:
5,000-20,000 Rp ($0.35-$1.45)
Restaurant Meal:
25,000-150,000+ Rp ($1.80-$10.80) (this varies greatly depending on if you eat at a local warung or at western style cafes and restaurants)
Motorbike Rental (24 hours):
50,000-60,000 Rp ($3.60-4.30)
Massage:
70,000-150,000+ ($5-10.80) (prices based on a full body Balinese massage, it depends on what kind of spa you go to, the cheap ones are fine but they get really luxurious on resorts)
Transport:
100,000-1,000,000 ($7.20-72) (depending on private driver, shuttle, boat or flying)
Read More on Indonesia
Backpacking Laos Budget
Currency Used: Lao Kip (LAK)
DAILY BUDGET: $30-40
I personally found Laos travel to be the most expensive to travel in. It’s a pretty big party destination in two of the major places to visit, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang but other than drinking you won’t find many activities that are very expensive.
Some examples of the more expensive things you need to budget for are:
- Tubing in Vang Vieng: 55,000 + 60,000 LAK deposit ($6.50 + $7)
- The Gibbon Experience (ziplining for multiple days): $190+
- Slow Boat into Laos from Thailand: 210,000 LAK ($25) Read exact details and prices here
Hostels:
33,000-58,000 LAK ($4-7)
BOOK HOSTELS: Luang Prabang | Vang Vieng | Vientiane
Water:
3000-8000 LAK ($0.35-1)
Big Beer at 7/11:
10,000-15,000 LAK ($1.20-1.80)
Street Food:
15,000-20,000 LAK ($1.80-3)
Restaurant Meal:
20,000+ LAK ($3+)
Transport:
90,000-200,000 LAK ($11-25) (depending on overnight or day buses)
Read More on Laos
Backpacking Myanmar Budget
Currency Used: Burmese Kyat (K)
DAILY BUDGET: $30-45
A budget for Myanmar is slightly higher as it is a newer destination and prices will be on the rise as more visitors begin entering the country. Myanmar backpacking is more difficult, but it is becoming easier. Typically Myanmar is a cheap country but accommodation and tranport is more limited as it’s not yet used to the influx of tourists thus making it more expensive, however it is still very affordable compared to western standards.
Myanmar is not a country where you go to party so you will save on alcohol, however that money can be used to pay for necessary entrance fees, accommodation or transport.
It’s important to note that Kyat and USD are accepted in Myanmar. Though you will mostly use Kyat (which is dispensed from the ATMs) it is important to have USD on you as it is sometimes asked for.
Some examples of the more expensive things you need to budget for are:
- Entrance fee to Bagan: 25,000 K ($20)
- Entrance fee to Inle Lake: 12,000 K ($9)
- Boat tour around Inle Lake: 20,400 K ($15)
Hostels:
10,900-20,400 K ($8-15)
BOOK HOSTELS: Yangon | Bagan | Inle Lake | Mandalay
1.5 Litre Bottle of Water:
Honestly I never bought a bottle of water because every hostel had free water
Big Beer:
1600-3000 K ($1.20-2.20)
Restaurant Meal:
2700-9500 K ($2-7)
Electric Bike Rental in Bagan (3-8 hours):
5000-7000 K ($3.50-5) (you can also get free laundry service with a rental!)
Transport:
10,900-20,400 K ($8-5) (opt for the VIP bus)
Read More on Myanmar
Backpacking Singapore Budget
Currency Used: Singapore dollar
DAILY BUDGET: $60-80
Singapore is by far the most expensive destination in Southeast Asia. Luckily not everything in the country is expensive. The public transit is relatively cheap and is exceptional and food can be found for cheap at food hawker centres.
If you want to save money in Singapore the best way to do so is to not drink. Alcohol is highly taxed so if you can not party for a few days then you’ll save a ton! Stick to Chinatown and Little India and you’ll find the cheapest accommodation, activities and food.
Hostels:
$13-40 ($10-30)
BOOK HOSTELS: Singapore
1.5 Litre Bottle of Water:
Tap water in Singapore is drinkable, bring a water bottle and it’s free!
Beer at a restaurant:
$10 ($7.60), happy hours often have beers cheaper
Beer at a hawker center:
$4 ($3.04)
Hawker center Meal:
$4-8 ($3.04-6.08)
Restaurant meal:
$15+ ($11.04)
Transport:
$0.77-2 ($0.59-1.52) per ride
Read More on Singapore
Remember these are just general prices to help you plan for your Southeast Asia travel budget. If you like to splurge save more and if you don’t like to drink you won’t need as much. Southeast Asia costs range significantly for people but if you plan on backpacking this guide offers comfortable prices so that you should be able to enjoy everything Southeast Asia has to offer!
Now it’s time to travel Asia and find out for yourself!
Budget Southeast Asia Tours
Travelling by a tour is not the most cost-effective way to see Southeast Asia but if you’re short on time or just hate planning then these Southeast Asia budget tours are a great option for seeing Southeast Asia.
Big Indochina Adventure
Countries Visited: Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia
Tour Length: 27 days
Best for: First-time visitors to Southeast Asia
Bangkok to Singapore Adventure
Countries Visited: Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore
Tour Length: 14 days
Best for: City lovers and visitors with a limited amount of time
Thailand Island Hopper East
Countries Visited: Thailand
Tour Length: 9 days
Best for: Party lovers
Asian Adventure
Countries Visited: Thailand, Laos, Cambodia
Tour Length: 16 days
Best for: Travellers with minimal time