As college students, the biggest challenge that you face is finding travel destinations that are budget-friendly without compromising on the adventure part of it.
While you’re looking for solo traveling options or going out with friends, refer to the popular travel destinations for students on a budget that can fill your summer breaks with a lot of adventure and exploration.
Popular Travel Destinations For Students On A Budget
Check out these Popular Travel Destinations For Students On A Budget that will help you plan you’re itinerary better.
1. Singapore
Known for its unbelievably gorgeous culture and cuisines, Singapore’s tall intricate buildings, islands, and narrow streets make it quite a budget-friendly option to choose from, is also known as “The Lion City”. Attractions like Merlion Park, Memorials, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Orchard Road, Marina Bay Sands, The Karting Arena are some fun locations to check out.
Refer to various tourist attractions in Singapore that can be visited for free, ideal for any student to hop on these cool destinations.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $105-$130/day
- Food: $15/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $30-$45/day
- Travel: $10-$18/day on local transportation
2. Russia
Coming from rich history and culture, Russia has high-walled fortresses and ancient churches. Must-visit places in Russia are Moscow, charming ancient villages of Pskov and Suzdal. Check out Red Square, Kolomenskoye Historical and Architectural Museum and Reserve, Cathedral of Christ the Saviour can be tried for free!
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $40-60/day
- Food: $15/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $7.58-$12.28/day
- Travel: $4-$9/day on local transportation
3. Hungary
Called “The City of Lights”, Hungary’s magnificent capital city of Budapest has got some beautiful landscapes and ancient historic attractions making it an ideal location to explore for students. Not miss out on Buda Castle, Historic Spa Towns, Esztergom Basilica, Hungarian Parliament Building, The Caves of Lillafüred.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $48-$75/day
- Food: $18/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $7.58-$12.28/day
- Travel: $12/day on local transportation
4. India
India comes from a huge historic background which numerous monuments that you can visit for free, and gorgeous landscapes that are just breathtaking. Don’t miss out on The Taj Mahal, the experience of The Holy City of Varanasi, The Golden City of Jaisalmer, The Gateway of India, Amer Fort, The Beaches of Goa, etc while the local street food is absolutely amazing!
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $60-95/day
- Food: $15/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $10-$18/day
- Travel: $6-$15/day on local transportation
Also Read: India Budget Travel Guide & Tips
5. Myanmar
Also known as Burma, is a must-visit location if you’re fond of beaches and Buddhist temples. You’ll see a lot of white sand beaches around the Andaman sea and the Bay of Bengal. Don’t miss out on Golden Rock, Shwedagon Pagoda, Shwenandaw Monastery, Inle Lake, Pindaya Caves, Ngapali Beach are gorgeous places to visit as students.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $40-$55/day
- Food: $12/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $12-$16/day
- Travel: $4-$9/day on local transportation
6. Kenya
Known for the Big Five and the Great Wildebeest Migration, Kenya’s rich biodiversity, and great safari destinations is an ideal situations that you can go and check out for yourself. Check out locations like The Big Five, Mt. Kenya, Lamu Island, Lake Naivasha, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Reserve and get ready to encounter some amazing wildlife that you’ll find here.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $80-$110/day
- Food: $22/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $22-$30/day
- Travel: $30/day on local transportation
7. Nepal
Nepal is one of the countries where tourists visit all around the world, its vibrant and affordability has all the credits. Whether you seek to climb the Himalayas or look forward to finding some sort of spiritual awakening. Kathmandu has got a lot of sacred attractions and lakeside towns and treks. Check out the Royal City of Bhaktapur, Boudhanath Stupa, The Annapurna Region trek, Chitwan National Park, The Langtang Region hike are not to miss.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $25-$40/day
- Food: $5-$10/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $5-$12.28/day
- Travel: $4-$9/day on local transportation
8. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has a lot to offer to its tourists. Gorgeous beach resorts, tropical beaches, numerous national parks, and scenic landscapes, make great vacation destinations. Check out Yala National Park, Colombo Lotus Tower, National Museum of Natural History, Gangaramaya Temple, Red Mosque, the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, etc.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $20-$45/day
- Food: $8/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $12-$18/day
- Travel: $4-$6/day on local transportation
9. Istanbul, Turkey
One of the most loved locations around the world, Turkey brings us Byzantine Empire’s history, palaces, and mosques, a few major attractions include Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Head Underground at the Basilica Cistern, Collection in Istanbul Archaeology Museum, Architecture of the Süleymaniye Mosque, Dolmabahçe Palace are a few must-visit places.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $40-$60/day
- Food: $15/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $7.58-$12.28/day
- Travel: $4-$9/day on local transportation
Also Read: Istanbul Budget Travel Guide & Tips
10. Egypt
Egypt has got dazzling temples and tombs, coral reefs, or Red Sea Coast to soak up the sun for beach lovers, as it’s known to be the home of the ancient Pharaohs. Major attractions include the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor’s Karnak Temple, Cruising the Nile, Abu Simbel, Diving the Red Sea, South Sinai’s Beach Life, etc.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $70-$95/day
- Food: $16/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $20-$28/day
- Travel: $15-$26/day on local transportation
11. Vietnam
A perfect blend of natural highlights and cultural diversity, a destination for hikers, bikers, and outdoor lovers, Vietnam has got a lot to offer. An underrated location for sure, locations like Halong Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, My Son, Sapa Countryside, Nha Trang are gorgeous destinations you must not miss out on!
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $30-60/day
- Food: $15/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $7.58-$12.28/day
- Travel: $4-$9/day on local transportation
12. Bhutan
A destination where Buddhist culture meets majestic fortress, Bhutan has got numerous monasteries to visit. Although it’s great for family vacations and honeymoon tours, the affordability aspect makes it even better for students to travel budget-friendly. Don’t miss out on Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Trongsa, Jakar, Wangdue Phodrang, Jigme Dorji National Park, etc.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $55-$110/day
- Food: $13/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $15-$18/day
- Travel: $10-$13/day on local transportation
13. Peru
A beautiful blend of history, culture, beauty, and adventure makes it an ideal situation for student travelers. The landscapes are breathtaking you can try sandboarding in the dunes, hiking in Sacred Valley, and experiencing modern Peru, the options are endless. However, don’t miss out on Machu Picchu, The Inca Trail, Cusco’s Architectural Treasures, Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon to name a few spots.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $40-60/day
- Food: $15/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $7.58-$12.28/day
- Travel: $4-$9/day on local transportation
14. Jordan
Jordan is a budget travelers’ dream and we’ll tell you why. Being one of the safest and most affordable locations to travel to, again, Jordan has a lot to offer. Check out locations like Petra, Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, Jerash Ruins, Aqaba, Roman Ruins in Amman, Ancient Mosaics of Madaba, Wadi Mujib’s enormous wildlife including Egyptian vultures, Nubian ibex, striped hyena, and the Syrian wolf.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $90-$120/day
- Food: $25-$42/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $18-$26/day
- Travel: $15-$22/day on local transportation
15. Colombia
Columbia is a vibrant destination that has contrasting dynamics of tropical Amazonian jungles, sun-kissed deserts, the Caribbean coast, it’s also famous for the warm hospitality it is famous for. Locations like Cartagena, Medellin, Eje Cafetero, Leticia, Tayrona National Natural Park, Bogotá, The Lost City of Ciudad Perdida, Providencia Island are must visit.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $35-$48/day
- Food: $8-$13/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $7.58-$12.28/day
- Travel: $4-$7/day on local transportation
16. Philippines
Known to have more than 7000 islands in the Pacific, the Philippines’s underwater rivers, limestone caves, and tropical beaches will give you a one-of-a-kind experience. There is a lot for solo travelers to explore, some of these include White Beach, Boracay, Manila Historical Sightseeing Tour, Shipwreck Diving, Mayon Volcano, Chocolate Hills, Underground River Tour, etc.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $28-$55/day
- Food: $15/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $12-$18/day
- Travel: $15-$18/day on local transportation
17. Laos
In the Southasian country of Laos, the local life and cuisines are fun to explore, you might get to taste a ripe bean from the vine on a coffee plantation which is fun yes! It is said that the best time to visit here is February, locations that include Kuang Si Caves, Sinouk Coffee Tour, Vientiane City Tour, Elephant Village Sanctuary, 4000 Islands, Kong Lor Caves, etc.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $22-$38/day
- Food: $5-$9/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $7.58-$12.28/day
- Travel: $3-$6/day on local transportation
18. Greece
One of the safest cities to visit makes it quite ideal for female student travelers to explore a gorgeous destination of Greece, which is the land of numerous historic sites that you can visit. Some of these include Acropolis, Santorini, Mykonos, Delphi, The Towns and Beaches of Crete, Corfu, Metéora Monasteries, etc.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $110-$160/day
- Food: $28-$40/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $32.58-$48/day
- Travel: $18-$30/day on local transportation
19. Cambodia
Called home to colossal temples, Cambodia has got some artistic accomplishments that any artist or somebody with a love for art and history will relate to. Don’t miss out on Angkor Archaeological Park, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville Beaches, Ratanakiri, Prasat Preah Vihear, Battambang, Koh Rong Samloem, Kampot, Tonlé Sap Lake, etc.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $15-$28/day
- Food: $6/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $8-$10/day
- Travel: $3-$5/day on local transportation
20. Qatar
Famous for its oil and gas reserves, Qatar has a lot more to offer to young travelers. From finest activities to extravagant buildings that blow your mind, Qatar has got it all. Check out locations like Msheireb Museums, National Museum Of Qatar, Mathaf , Radwani House, Film City – The Mystery Village Of Qatar, Barzan Towers are only a few listed that you should not miss.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $150-$160/day
- Food: $35/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $60-$85/day
- Travel: $20/day on local transportation
21. Georgia
Introducing too many contrasts on the table, Georgia’s mountain landscapes and scenic natural features are all out to blow your mind. From the world’s largest aquarium to the beaches of Jekyll Island, the country also comes with a historic background to keep you busy all day. Try visiting Georgia Aquarium, Savannah Historic District, Atlanta Botanic Garden, Rock City on Lookout Mountain, Chattahoochee National Forest, Center for Civil and Human Rights to name a few.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $40-$60/day
- Food: $8/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $34-$57/day
- Travel: $4/day on local transportation
22. Taiwan
With incredible natural beauty and culture, Taiwan has gorgeous locations that any traveler should visit once in life. List out locations like Taipei, National Palace Museum, Taroko Gorge, Yushan National Park, Alishan Scenic Mountain Area, Sun Moon Lake, Maokong that are beautiful landscapes to hop onto.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $90-$115/day
- Food: $16/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $24-$36/day
- Travel: $12/day on local transportation
23. Norway
The Land of Northern lights and everything cosmos, Norway is a gem people just can’t miss out on and if you’re a traveler, this is it. The best sightseeing opportunities include Sognefjord, Pulpit Rock, Tromsø, Lofoten Islands, Viking Ship Museum, Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf, Tromsø’s Arctic Museums, Vigeland Sculpture Park, Akershus Fortress, etc provides the best of landscapes.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $90-$115/day
- Food: $34/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $32-$48/day
- Travel: $12-$18/day on local transportation
24. Indonesia
A collection of islands that holds numerous treasures of cities, landscapes, and adventures, has a combination of 13,500 islands in total. Explore the beaches of Bali, Borobudur, Orangutans of Borneo, Gili Islands, Komodo National Park, Mount Bromo, Tana Toraja, Kalimantan, etc for a one of a kind experience.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $45-$58/day
- Food: $13/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $8-$12/day
- Travel: $2.44-$6/day on local transportation
Also Read: Bali Budget Travel Guide & Tips
25. Malaysia
Known for its multi-cultural landscapes and architecture, Malaysia offers everything on the budget you desire. From the record-breaking caves, sandy beaches to giant mountains, snorkeling, and scuba diving for adventure lovers, Malaysia has got it all. Attractions include Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, Mount Kinabalu, Perhentian Islands, Sipadan Island, which must be checked out.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $75-$90/day
- Food: $15-$18/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $22-$40/day
- Travel: $7-$12/day on local transportation
26. Thailand
Known to be the “Land of Smiles”, Thailand has got World Class beaches, bustling hives of activity, and commerce that give you immense opportunities for trekking. List down the Railay Beach, Koh Phi Phi, The Grand Palace, Sunday Walking Street, Pai, Wild Elephants at Khao Yai National Park, Sukhothai Old City, Historic City of Ayutthaya are a must-visit.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $65-$98/day
- Food: $15/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $8-$12/day
- Travel: $7-$12/day on local transportation
27. Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is known to be the 9th largest country in the world, gives you an ultimate experience, the geographical diversity of the country introduces for Astana (the Changing Face Of Central Asia), Aktau (Pretty Town By The Caspian), Lake Balkhash (The 15th Largest Lake In The World), Turgen Gorge (Amazing Place For Trekkers), Nomad’s Land (Abandoned Film Set) to name a few.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $18-$25/day
- Food: $5.28/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $4-$6/day
- Travel: $2-$4/day on local transportation
28. Mexico
Perfect for longer vacations, Mexico is truly a travelers’ paradise. Mexico’s ancient Aztec and Mayan sites, UNESCO heritage sites make it extra special. Locations like Cancún and the Mayan Riviera, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, and the Los Cabos Corridor, Mexico’s Grand Canyon, The Mayan Metropolis, are a few locations to visit.
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $60-$85/day
- Food: $18/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $22-$40/day
- Travel: $10-$13/day on local transportation
29. Hong Kong
Known to be the glamourous city of all destinations we’ve known so far, from hiking trails, beautiful beaches, islands, and traditional fishing villages, Hong Kong has nothing missing. List in these destinations like Star Ferry, Hong Kong Skyline, Victoria Peak (The Peak), Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha Statue), Wong Tai Sin Temple, Repulse Bay, and the Beaches are gorgeous looking places!
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $110-$135/day
- Food: $18-$26/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $16-$23/day
- Travel: $7/day on local transportation
30. Cuba
The Caribbean’s largest island, Cuba has got the most history, culture, and a captivating mystique. Cuba is known for its scenic natural beauty with 5,000 kilometers of coastline, yes which is a lot of beaches to relax. Check out some of the famous destinations like Old Havana, Varadero, Trinidad, Playa Paraíso, Cayo Coco, Baracoa are totally breathtaking, you must not miss out on!
Average Daily Costs
- Basic: $33-$48/day
- Food: $7.84/day on meals
- Hostel/Hotel: $6-$13/day
- Travel: $5-$8/day on local transportation
There Are Various Benefits of Traveling as a Student:
- Exposure to problems while traveling helps you with last-minute ideas and surviving habits.
- Staying and exploring different cultures helps you build confidence to face hardships and unknown crisis.
- International travel to even nearby countries help student network better as it provides opportunities to interact with people around the world.
Having that said, let’s dive into the Budget-friendly travel destinations for students to explore!
Disclaimer: Prices mentioned below are approximate numbers that can vary a little, be mindful of traveling with extra cash in case of emergency.
