Dreaming of traveling the world, but worried about the costs? What if you could explore new cities, eat delicious food, and stay in exciting places, all while sticking to a $50-a-day budget? It’s not only possible—it’s entirely doable! With the right strategies and a bit of creativity, you can travel on a shoestring budget and still have unforgettable experiences. Here’s how you can travel the world on $50 a day (or less!).

1. Choose Budget-Friendly Destinations

The first step in making $50 a day work is selecting destinations where the cost of living is low. Some countries are much more affordable than others, allowing you to stretch your budget further. Southeast Asia, parts of Central and South America, Eastern Europe, and even some areas in Africa offer great value for travelers.

Examples of Budget-Friendly Countries:

• Vietnam: You can easily get by on $50 a day in Vietnam. Street food is delicious and cheap, and accommodations are plentiful for budget travelers.
• Mexico: Mexico offers affordable transportation, food, and lodging, especially outside of the major tourist spots.
• Portugal: A budget-friendly European country, Portugal offers great deals on food, accommodation, and transportation, especially in places like Lisbon and Porto.

Choosing countries with a low cost of living will make your $50 a day stretch much further.

2. Find Affordable Accommodation

Accommodation can often be the biggest expense when traveling. But there are plenty of ways to find cheap (or even free) places to stay.

• Hostels and Guesthouses: Look for budget hostels, guesthouses, or even dormitory-style rooms, where you can pay as little as $10 to $20 a night. Websites like Hostelworld and Booking.com are great for finding affordable options.
• Couchsurfing: This app connects travelers with locals who offer a free place to stay. It’s a great way to meet new people, experience local culture, and save money.
• Airbnb and Private Rooms: Sometimes, renting a private room through Airbnb can be cheaper than staying in a hostel, especially in countries with lower accommodation costs.
• Camping: If you’re traveling in nature-rich destinations, camping can be an affordable option. Many countries have campsites that charge minimal fees, or you can opt for wild camping where permitted.

3. Eat Like a Local

Eating out in restaurants can quickly eat up your daily budget, especially in touristy areas. But there are plenty of ways to enjoy delicious, affordable meals if you eat like a local.

• Street Food: Street food is not only an excellent way to experience local culture, but it’s often extremely affordable. In countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and India, you can enjoy a filling meal for just $1 to $3.
• Local Markets: Visiting local markets for fresh produce and ready-to-eat meals can save you a lot of money. A picnic in the park with fresh fruit, bread, and cheese is a tasty, inexpensive way to enjoy a meal.
• Cook Your Own Meals: If you have access to a kitchen, consider buying groceries and cooking your own meals. Many hostels provide kitchen facilities, and supermarkets offer great deals on fresh ingredients.

4. Use Public Transportation

Getting around can be one of the most significant expenses when traveling, but public transportation is a cheap and efficient way to explore your destination.

• Buses and Trains: Most cities around the world have an extensive public transportation system. Buses and trains are often cheap and can take you to various attractions within the city. Many cities also have day passes or multi-ride tickets, which save you money.
• Ride-Sharing Apps: If public transport isn’t available, ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft can sometimes be cheaper than traditional taxis.
• Walking or Biking: In many cities, walking or biking is the most cost-effective way to get around, and it gives you the chance to see your destination at a slower pace. Many cities have bike rental systems for a low daily fee.

5. Free Activities and Sightseeing

One of the best ways to save money while traveling is to take advantage of free activities and attractions.

• Museums and Parks: Many museums around the world offer free or discounted admission on certain days of the week. Public parks, nature reserves, and hiking trails are also excellent options for free activities.
• Free Walking Tours: In many major cities, you can join free walking tours, where you only pay a tip at the end of the tour. This is a great way to learn about a city’s history and culture without spending much.
• Local Festivals and Events: Look for free local festivals, markets, or events happening during your travels. These can be a fun and free way to experience the culture of the place you’re visiting.

6. Travel Slowly and Stay Longer

One of the best ways to save money while traveling is to slow down. The longer you stay in one place, the more you can take advantage of local deals, discounted accommodation, and even free activities. Plus, traveling less frequently means you’ll spend less on transportation.

• Long-Term Accommodation: Many hostels or guesthouses offer discounts for long-term stays. Airbnb also offers reduced rates for weekly or monthly rentals.
• Volunteer or Work Exchange: Many organizations and farms around the world offer free accommodation and meals in exchange for a few hours of work each day. Websites like Workaway and WWOOF are great places to find work exchange opportunities.

7. Travel Off-Season

Traveling during peak tourist seasons can significantly increase your expenses. Airfares, accommodation prices, and activity costs all rise when demand is high. If you have flexibility, consider traveling during the off-season, when prices are lower, and popular attractions are less crowded.