Southeast Asia is widely considered one of the cheapest regions in the world to travel — and in 2026, that reputation is still mostly deserved.
For most travelers, daily costs are far lower than in Europe or North America, especially for food, accommodation, and transport. However, prices vary significantly depending on the country, travel style, and season.
If you’re planning a 2 week trip to Southeast Asia, the short answer is: it can be very cheap, or surprisingly expensive — depending on how you travel.
I’ve planned (and costed out) multiple Southeast Asia itineraries, and for most travelers, a realistic 14-day budget falls somewhere between €900 and €2,200, excluding flights. Backpackers can spend less, while mid-range and comfort travelers will spend more — but still far less than in Europe.
In this guide, I’ll break down how much a trip to Southeast Asia costs, including accommodation, food, transport, activities, and example budgets for different travel styles.
What does “cheap” actually mean in Southeast Asia?
Compared to Western destinations, Southeast Asia offers:
- Very low food costs (especially street food)
- Affordable local transport
- Budget-friendly accommodation almost everywhere
That said, “cheap” does not mean the same thing everywhere. Thailand tourist hotspots, Singapore, and popular island destinations can be surprisingly expensive, while countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos remain extremely affordable.
Average daily travel costs in Southeast Asia (2026)
Here’s what most travelers realistically spend per day:
| Travel style | Daily budget (USD) | What this typically includes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $30–45 per day | Hostels or guesthouses, street food, local buses and trains, free or low-cost attractions |
| Mid-range | $50–80 per day | Private hotel rooms, mix of local food and cafés, some tours and domestic flights |
| Comfort | $100+ per day | Resorts or upscale hotels, restaurants and drinks, guided activities, private transport |
Breakdown of typical expenses
Accommodation
- Hostels: $6–15 per night
- Budget hotels: $20–40
- Mid-range hotels: $50–90
Food
- Street food meals: $1–3
- Local restaurants: $3–7
- Western restaurants: $8–15
Transport
- Local buses/trains: $1–5
- Domestic flights: $25–70
- Scooter rental: $5–8/day
Activities & extras
- Temples & attractions: $1–10
- Tours & excursions: $15–50
- SIM cards & data: $5–10
Cheapest vs most expensive countries in Southeast Asia
Cheapest countries:
- Vietnam
- Cambodia
- Laos
- Indonesia (outside Bali hotspots)
More expensive destinations:
- Thailand (Bangkok, Phuket, islands)
- Philippines (remote islands)
- Singapore (by far the most expensive)
Traveling smart — choosing cheaper bases and limiting flights — makes a massive difference.
is Southeast Asia cheaper than Europe?
Yes — by a wide margin, especially when it comes to everyday expenses. Food in Southeast Asia often costs three to five times less than in Europe, accommodation is significantly cheaper at every level, and daily transport rarely adds much to your budget. This contrast becomes obvious when you compare it with destinations where travelers regularly ask is Europe expensive to visit, particularly for longer trips.
how to travel Southeast Asia cheaply in 2026
- Eat local and avoid tourist restaurants
- Use buses and trains instead of flights
- Travel shoulder season
- Stay longer in fewer places
- Avoid over-booking tours
Slow travel = cheaper travel in Southeast Asia.
FAQ
Is Southeast Asia cheap for first-time travelers?
Yes. It’s one of the easiest and most affordable regions for first-time international travelers.
Can you travel Southeast Asia on $1,000?
Yes, especially if backpacking and sticking to cheaper countries.
What is the cheapest month to visit Southeast Asia?
Generally May–June and September–October (outside peak tourist seasons).
