As a solo traveler, I always look for places that are easy on the wallet but still exciting. With 50% of Americans planning solo trips this year1, solo travel is getting more popular. I’ve found cities like Kraków, Poland, and Marrakech, Morocco, to be great for solo travelers. They offer fun experiences without spending too much, with daily costs around $602 and $672.
Whether you’re searching for a budget-friendly trip or just want to save money, there are many options. Places like Buenos Aires, Argentina, are super cheap, with daily costs of just $252.
I’ll share my favorite cheap solo travel spots. You’ll find affordable places to stay, eat, and get around. I’ll use data to show you the cheapest spots, like hostels in Kraków for €10-15 per night2, and meals in Ljubljana for €7-102.

Key Takeaways
- Average daily costs in places like Kraków, Poland, and Marrakech, Morocco, can be as low as $602 and $672, respectively.
- Buenos Aires, Argentina, offers a daily cost of $252, making it an ideal destination for budget solo travel.
- Cheap accommodations, such as hostels in Kraków, can cost between €10-15 per night2.
- Affordable meals can be found in destinations like Ljubljana, with prices ranging from €7-102.
- Cost-effective transportation options, such as those found in Marrakech, can cost as low as $0.422.
- 50% of Americans plan to travel alone this year1, making solo travel a growing trend.
- Cities like Washington DC have a solo score of 100%1, indicating a high level of solo traveler friendliness.
Why These Budget-Friendly Destinations Are Perfect for Solo Travelers
As a solo traveler, I’ve found that low cost solo travel is a big advantage. It lets you meet new people and explore different cultures without spending a lot. Places like Porto, San Juan, and Tbilisi are great for this, with affordable places to stay and ways to get around. For example, Porto is 33% cheaper than Toronto and 50% cheaper than New York City3.
Looking for solo travel deals means doing your homework to have a great trip. The first source says San Francisco, Nashville, and New York City are top picks in the U.S3.. The third source points out Denver, Calgary, and Mexico City as good choices for solo travelers. Some of the best budget-friendly solo destinations include:
- Hue, Vietnam, with an average cost of ~$30 per day4
- Chiang Mai, Thailand, with an average cost of ~$50 per day4
- Gyeongju, South Korea, with an average cost of ~$60 per day4
Exploring these budget-friendly solo destinations can lead to unforgettable and affordable trips. With some research and planning, finding low cost solo travel options is easy. This makes solo travel more fun and reachable for everyone.
What Are the Most Budget-Friendly Regions for Solo Travelers?
- Southest Asia
- Eastern Europe
- South America
Let’s dive into the details..
Cheapest Solo Travel Destinations by Region
1- Southeast Asia

Cheapest Solo Travel Destinations in South Asia:
Southeast Asia is a dream spot for solo travelers. It’s filled with rich culture, stunning beauty, and low prices. Places like Vietnam and Thailand are perfect for those on a tight budget. In Vietnam, you can live on less than $30 a day, making it a top choice for budget-friendly trips5.
Street food in Vietnam is just $1, and staying in cities like Hanoi won’t cost much. This makes Vietnam a great place for solo adventures without spending a lot.
Thailand is also a great pick for solo travelers. Its islands and cities are affordable, with daily costs in Chiang Mai around $255. This includes food, lodging, and activities. Thailand offers a lively vibe, friendly people, and tasty food, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers6.
Southeast Asia has something for every solo traveler. You can explore bustling cities or relax on beautiful islands. This region offers unforgettable experiences without draining your wallet7.
2- Eastern Europe
Most Affordable Cities for Solo Adventures in East Europe:
Eastern Europe is a goldmine for budget solo travel. You can wander through Poland’s quaint streets or marvel at Hungary’s breathtaking views. Kraków, for example, is both beautiful and budget-friendly, with many affordable hostels8. Budapest also stands out, with its great hostels and lively social scenes for solo travelers8.
Looking for affordable solo trips? Eastern Europe has plenty to offer. Prague and Vienna, for instance, provide rich cultural experiences without the high cost. Prague, in particular, remains affordable despite its popularity8. Bulgaria and Romania are also gems, blending history, culture, and natural beauty at a low cost.
Some top spots for solo travelers on a budget include:
- Kraków, Poland
- Budapest, Hungary
- Prague, Czech Republic
- Sofia, Bulgaria
- Riga, Latvia
These cities mix affordability, culture, and fun, making them ideal for budget solo travel8.
3- South American

Budget Travel Destinations in South America:
Exploring South America, I find it’s perfect for solo travelers. It offers many budget-friendly spots and great deals. From Colombia’s lively cities to Bolivia’s natural beauty, there’s plenty to see without spending a lot.
Top spots for budget travel include Colombia’s coffee region, Bolivia’s salt flats, and Peru’s cheaper alternatives to Machu Picchu9. Solo female travel in South America is becoming more popular10. Staying in safe places and using public transport can save money10.
Looking for deals? Visit during the off-season, haggle in markets, and learn some Spanish10. South America’s food, people, and vibe make it great for budget travelers. Argentina is also a top pick, with its amazing parks and waterfalls.
South America is perfect for solo travelers, whether you’re new or experienced. It has rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and affordable options. So, start planning your solo trip today and enjoy the amazing deals South America offers.
Money-Saving Strategies for Solo Travelers
As a solo traveler, keeping an eye on your budget is key. Plan ahead to save money on places to stay and how to get around. For example, booking early can lead to big savings. In Kauai, VRBO bookings were 50% cheaper than direct resort prices11.
Doing your homework on your destination can also save you money. It helps avoid unnecessary costs and makes your trip smoother12.
Booking a hostel dorm is a smart move, costing 50-70% less than a hotel room13. Using shared vans or public transport can cut travel costs a lot13. Free walking tours in big cities can save up to 100% on guided tours13.
Here are some more tips for solo travelers:
- Use credit card points for free flights, saving $200-500 on trips13
- Get discounts on Airbnb stays by booking longer, saving 10-25%13
- Look for discounts on transport, entertainment, and more, saving 10-50%13
By using these tips, solo travelers can have a great trip without spending too much. They can explore the cheapest solo travel spots, enjoy budget-friendly solo travel, and have affordable solo trips.
Destination | Accommodation Cost | Transportation Cost |
---|---|---|
Thailand | $10-20 per night | $1-3 per ride |
Vietnam | $15-30 per night | $2-5 per ride |
Japan | $20-50 per night | $3-10 per ride |
Conclusion: Making Your Solo Adventure Dreams a Reality
The world is full of amazing places, perfect for solo travelers. You can explore vibrant cultures and see stunning natural wonders without spending a lot. From the lively cities of Southeast Asia to the beautiful spots in Eastern Europe, there’s so much to see14.
With the right attitude and some planning, you can start your solo journey. It’s a chance to grow personally, explore freely, and meet new people. Solo travel offers many benefits15.
So, what are you waiting for? Begin looking for your next adventure, learn about local customs, and get ready for new experiences. Your big journey is close, and with some preparation and a sense of adventure, you’ll make unforgettable memories16.
FAQ
What are some of the cheapest solo travel destinations around the world?
Some of the cheapest places to travel solo include Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia), Eastern Europe (Poland, Hungary), and South America (Colombia, Bolivia, Peru).
Why are these budget-friendly destinations perfect for solo travelers?
These places are great for solo travelers because they’re affordable. You can meet new people, see different cultures, and enjoy nature without spending a lot. They also have cheap places to stay, travel, and do activities.
What safety considerations should solo travelers keep in mind?
Solo travelers should do their research and take safety steps for a good trip. Know your area, use safe transport, and stay in secure places.
What are the best times to visit these destinations for maximum savings?
Going during the off-season or shoulder season can save you money. You’ll also avoid crowds and get a more real experience.
How can solo travelers navigate local transportation on a budget?
Plan your transport ahead to find cheap and easy ways to move around. Use public transport, rideshare, or rent a bike or motorcycle.
What are some of the hidden gems and budget-friendly options in Southeast Asia?
In Southeast Asia, find vibrant cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. Island-hop in Thailand and see Angkor Wat in Cambodia on a budget.
What are some of the most affordable cities for solo adventures in Eastern Europe?
Eastern Europe has cities like Krakow in Poland and Budapest in Hungary. They have stunning buildings, rich history, and lively culture at low prices for solo travelers.
What are some budget-friendly destinations and alternatives in South America?
In South America, explore Medellin in Colombia, the salt flats of Bolivia, and cheaper Machu Picchu alternatives in Peru on a budget.
What are some money-saving strategies for solo travelers?
To save money, book ahead, cook your meals, use public transport, and find free or cheap things to do and see.
Source Links
- The top destinations for solo travel + dining. – https://www.kayak.com/c/solo/
- 10 Cheap Solo Travel Destinations For Those On A Single Budget – https://www.thetravel.com/cheap-solo-travel-destinations/
- Best Budget Solo Travel Destinations: Fun, Safe & Affordable for 2024 – https://solotravelerworld.com/destinations-for-solo-travelers-on-a-budget/
- 22+ Destinations for Cheap Solo Vacations to Create Unforgettable Memories – https://www.cabinzero.com/blogs/travel-tips/cheap-solo-vacations
- Top Solo Travel Destinations: Safe and Affordable Places to Fly Alone – https://wowfare.com/blog/explore-the-best-solo-travel-destinations-that-are-both-safe-and-budget-friendly-for-independent-adventurers/
- 7 of the best places in Southeast Asia for solo travelers – https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-solo-travel-southeast-asia
- No title found – https://www.under30experiences.com/blog/solo-travel-destinations-in-asia
- Backpackers Guide To Eastern Europe: 10 Best Cities For Solo Travelers – https://www.thetravel.com/best-cities-in-eastern-europe-for-solo-travelers/
- No title found – https://www.under30experiences.com/blog/solo-travel-destinations-in-south-america
- Solo Female Travel in South America: Ultimate Guide & Tips – https://www.traveldifferently.org/blog/solo-female-travel-in-south-america-ultimate-guide-tips
- How to Save Money on Hotels and Other Travel Accommodation – https://solotravelerworld.com/save-on-hotels-solo-travel/
- How to Make Solo Travel Affordable, Cheap or Even Free – https://solotravelerworld.com/cheap-solo-travel/
- Solo Travel on a Budget Money-Saving Strategies for Independent Explorers | ConnectPls – https://connectpls.com/solo-travel-on-a-budget-money-saving-strategies-for-independent-explorers/
- Are you ready to travel alone? These are the signs – https://thesolotravelinstyleblog.com/are-you-ready-to-travel-alone/
- To Travel Alone or With Others? — One Bold Bunny – https://oneboldbunny.com/blog/to-travel-alone-or-with-others
- Travel Adventures And Life Lessons From A Solo Traveler – https://culturallyours.com/2019/09/06/travel-adventures-and-life-lessons-from-a-solo-traveler/