As a content creator for familycircletravel.net, I understand the importance of budget-friendly travel, especially for families. Like many frugal travelers, I’ve always sought out destinations where my dollar stretches further. Places like India, Mexico, and Bali have long been favorites for budget backpackers due to their favorable exchange rates. However, the landscape of affordable international travel is constantly evolving, and 2024 presents unique opportunities.
This year, the U.S. dollar has gained significant strength against numerous global currencies, including the South African Rand and the Japanese Yen. This shift, coupled with rising domestic travel costs in the U.S., makes international travel a surprisingly attractive and economical option. While domestic flights and hotel prices have slightly decreased from last year, dining out and entertainment costs within the U.S. have surged. Recent reports even highlight America’s growing reputation as a costly holiday destination.
While airfare to certain regions like Asia and Africa may be elevated compared to last year, strategic booking and utilizing budget airlines can still unlock great deals. The real advantage lies in the affordability once you arrive at your destination. During my travels to Cape Town, South Africa, local transportation and dining were incredibly inexpensive. Similarly, in Japan, daily lunches were remarkably affordable.
For travelers seeking adventure without breaking the bank, here are some of the best Cheap Countries To Travel To in 2024, where your dollar will truly go further:
Argentina
Exchange Rate: $1 USD = 927 Argentine Pesos (as of [current date])
Exchange Rate a Year Ago: $1 USD = 271 Argentine Pesos
The snow-covered peak of Fitz Roy at sunrise in Argentina
Argentina’s current economic situation, marked by high inflation, ironically presents a fantastic opportunity for American travelers. The significant devaluation of the Argentine Peso makes it an exceptionally cheap country to travel to. In El Chaltén, the Patagonian trekking capital, you can indulge in high-quality steak dinners and fine Malbec wine for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere. For comfortable and affordable lodging, Senderos Hostería provides cozy chalet-style rooms with stunning Fitz Roy views and complimentary breakfast. Adventure seekers can explore mountaineering and trekking clinics offered by Chaltén Mountain Guides in Los Glaciares National Park.
Northern Argentina’s Ibera wetlands are one of the world’s best wildlife-watching destinations. It supports everything from the capybara and jacana (on its back) to more than 300 species of birds.
Beyond Patagonia, venture northeast to Iberá National Park, a revitalized wetland ecosystem teeming with wildlife. Thanks to conservation efforts, species like jaguars and giant otters are flourishing here. El Transito hotel, located within the park, provides convenient access to wildlife viewing, horseback riding, and kayaking adventures in this unique and cheap travel destination.
Japan
Exchange Rate: $1 USD = 153 Japanese Yen (as of [current date])
Exchange Rate a Year Ago: $1 USD = 141 Japanese Yen
The Unesco-protected moss forest of Yakushima
Japan, recently recognized by the Adventure Travel Trade Association, is gaining prominence as an outdoor adventure hub. The favorable exchange rate makes it a surprisingly cheap country to travel to, especially when considering the quality of experiences. Explore Yakushima, a subtropical island accessible by ferry from Kagoshima. The high-speed ferry offers a quick and reasonably priced journey to this natural paradise.
A man and a woman ply the green waters of the Anbo River, in Yakushima, Japan, atop their stand-up paddleboards.
On Yakushima, paddle the tranquil Anbo River with Green Mount tours and hike the enchanting Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, filled with moss-covered forests and ancient cedar trees. Yakushima Experience offers guided treks to Kuromidake mountain, providing panoramic views. For a unique cultural experience, visit Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen, a seaside hot spring accessible during low tide, offering relaxation at a minimal cost. Japan’s blend of affordability and unique experiences makes it a top cheap travel destination in Asia.
Canada
Exchange Rate: $1 USD = 1.37 Canadian Dollars (as of [current date])
Exchange Rate a Year Ago: $1 USD = 1.31 Canadian Dollars
A mama black bear, a black bear cub, and a white spirit bear cub in British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest
Canada’s vast wilderness and stunning national parks are undeniable draws for outdoor enthusiasts. While perhaps not as drastically cheap as other destinations, the stronger U.S. dollar enhances affordability, making it a relatively cheap country to travel to, especially for North Americans. Consider focusing on specific regions or experiences to maximize value. Instead of a cross-country road trip (due to higher gas prices), explore destinations like the Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia. Shearwater Resort, owned by the Heiltsuk Nation, offers an eco-friendly retreat accessible by ferry, with accommodation options for various budgets, from campsites to lodge rooms. The resort provides opportunities for salmon fishing, cultural tours, and wildlife viewing, including grizzly bears, spirit bears, and whales.
A woman stand-up-paddleboards the islet-filled bay in front of British Columbia’s Shearwater Resort.
For a city experience, Montreal in Quebec offers a blend of urban attractions and natural escapes. Boucherville Islands National Park, easily accessible from downtown Montreal, provides trails, kayaking, paddleboarding, and riverside camping at affordable prices, demonstrating that Canada can be a cheap country to travel to for both city and nature lovers.
South Africa
Exchange Rate: $1 USD = 18.32 South African Rand (as of [current date])
Exchange Rate a Year Ago: $1 USD = 17.74 South African Rand
Two hikers rambling along a trail with views of Table Mountain and the 12 Apostles viewed from Lion
South Africa offers incredible value for American travelers, making it a definitively cheap country to travel to. Cape Town, a vibrant coastal city, provides a San Francisco-esque experience at a fraction of the cost. With beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and nearby wine regions, it’s an adventurer’s paradise. United Airlines offers direct flights to Cape Town, making it more accessible than ever.
Colorful changing houses line South Africa’s Muizenberg Beach, near Cape Town, while kitesurfers play in the surf.
Accommodation options like Noah House offer stylish rooms at reasonable prices, close to Table Mountain and Cape Town’s lively Kloof Street. Escape and Explore provides guided snorkeling and surfing adventures. For a scenic road trip, the Garden Route along the Western Cape offers stunning coastal views and whale watching opportunities. De Hoop Nature Reserve provides affordable lodging and access to hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing, solidifying South Africa’s status as a cheap travel destination with diverse experiences.
Romania
Exchange Rate: $1 USD = 4.58 Romanian Lei (as of [current date])
Exchange Rate a Year Ago: $1 USD = 4.43 Romanian Lei
A woman rides her mountain bike on a trail along a massively steep hillside in central Romania near Mount Omu.
Romania remains an undiscovered gem in Europe, offering a cheap country to travel to with authentic cultural experiences and stunning landscapes. Unlike many overtouristed European nations, Romania offers a welcoming atmosphere, uncrowded trails, and affordable prices. Bucharest, the capital, boasts top-tier dining at incredibly reasonable costs.
An aerial view of Mesendorf, a traditional saxon village in Transylvania, Romania, with a fortified church at its center.
Transylvania’s Carpathian Mountains offer excellent hiking and biking, with marked trails connecting Saxon villages. Bike Check Inn in Viscri provides bike rentals and guided tours for exploring the region. Mesendorf Gasthaus offers comfortable accommodation near bike trails and hiking paths, perfect for birdwatching. Romania’s affordability and natural beauty make it a compelling cheap travel country to visit before it potentially adopts the Euro in the future.
Australia
Exchange Rate: $1 USD = 1.51 Australian Dollars (as of [current date])
Exchange Rate a Year Ago: $1 USD = 1.47 Australian Dollars
A woman sits on a blanket overlooking the Babinda boulders swimming pools near Cairns, Queensland.
Australia, while often perceived as expensive, can be a surprisingly cheap country to travel to, especially with new flight routes and strategic planning. New direct flights to Brisbane are making Queensland more accessible. Brisbane serves as an excellent base for exploring the Gold Coast beaches and Byron Bay.
A girl pops up on her surfboard off the shores of Melbourne, Australia, while her teacher does a cheer from behind the wave.
Byron Bay offers accommodation options like The Sunseeker motel and Sun Ranch farm stay. Adventure activities range from hang gliding over Cape Byron to surfing lessons at Tallow Beach. Soul Surf School provides rentals and lessons. Inland, explore Nightcap National Park’s waterfalls and glow-worm caves. Enjoy affordable dining at cafes like Bayleaf Café and Masa Byron Bay, making parts of Australia a surprisingly cheap travel destination.
Portugal
Exchange Rate: $1 USD = 0.92 Euros (as of [current date])
Exchange Rate a Year Ago: $1 USD = 0.89 Euros
The red-roofed homes and cathedral in the historic Alfama district of Lisbon, Portugal.
While the Euro is slightly stronger than the dollar, Portugal stands out as a cheap country to travel to within Western Europe. Compared to Spain, France, or Italy, Portugal offers more affordable options without compromising on quality. Surf beaches, scenic trails like the Rota Vicentina, and coastal cycling routes attract active travelers. Portugal’s efficient rail system and reasonable car rental costs further enhance its affordability.
Noah Surf House in Santa Cruz provides beachfront accommodation, surf school, and dining at various price points. Plaj restaurant offers affordable and delicious seafood. With pleasant autumn weather and typically lower flight prices to Europe, Portugal provides a fantastic and cheap travel option for those seeking European charm and adventure.
The author stops her bike ride in Romania to pose in front of a house where a muster of storks has constructed a large nest atop a building.
In conclusion, 2024 presents a unique window of opportunity for affordable international travel. By considering these cheap countries to travel to, you can experience incredible adventures and cultural immersion without overspending. Start planning your budget-friendly international trip today!
