The cheapest countries to live in

Looking for a budget getaway? We list the cheapest countries to visit.

There’s a lot to do when planning a trip – scouring through travel websites, finding safe countries to visit, booking flights, choosing the right travel cards and booking the all-important travel insurance.

Savvy travellers know how to stretch their money, whether it’s maximising Avios points or securing the best travel money rates.

At the heart of it all lies one key question: how much are you willing to spend? With flight prices climbing and budgets tightening, it’s easy to wonder if a cheap last-minute holiday might be the way to go. There are still plenty of destinations worldwide that offer fantastic value for money once you arrive, giving you plenty more bang for your buck.

We’ve tapped into research from our sister publication, Kiplinger, to highlight the cheapest countries to visit based on accommodation, food, and general everyday costs. Note that the list does not look at the cost of the flights – which will be an important consideration for your overall holiday budget.

Top 10 cheapest countries to visit

10. Portugal

Portugal enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year, with beautiful beaches and vibrant cities to explore. It’s one of the best value destinations in Europe and is ideal for those who love to explore. Portugal is also renowned for its port wine, produced in the scenic Douro Valley, which is well worth a visit, along with Porto, home to historic tasting rooms and lodges where you can try all kinds of port. For those who crave a more energetic break, the Azores – an archipelago off the coast of Portugal – offers breathtaking hikes and stunning landscapes.

• Average daily cost: £124
• Average accommodation cost per person: £82
• Average daily meals cost: £43

9. Dominican Republic

The climate in the Dominican Republic is wonderful throughout the year, which gives you the advantage of being able to book off-season to secure even lower prices. The island has something for everyone, whether you want to relax on the beach or head to the rainforest for an adventure. And there are plenty of water sports to try – be it scuba diving, sailing, paddleboarding or even flyboarding.

• Average daily cost: £108
• Average accommodation cost per person: £66
• Average daily meals cost: £45

8. Costa Rica

Costa Rica topped the chart for the best place to retire abroad in 2024, according to the International Living Index, when housing, climate and cost of living are taken into consideration. It’s among the smaller Central American countries, but it has a lot to offer. In Costa Rica, you’ll have access to both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, jungles and volcanoes. Make sure to take advantage of the amazing wildlife, whether you go whale watching, watch baby turtles hatch or get up close to some sloths.

• Average daily cost: £56
• Average accommodation cost per person: £24
• Average daily meals cost: £9

7. Mexico

Mexico is known for its top-tier food scene and historical sites, and its beaches are regularly listed as some of the best in the world. It’s also home to ancient Aztec and Mayan ruins, which can be explored for very reasonable prices. Cancun offers some of the most beautiful all-inclusive resorts, including the Moon Palace Resort and the Dreams Riviera Resort, where your every whim will be taken care of. Be sure to live like a local by trying mouthwatering dishes at local taquerías.

• Average daily cost: £75
• Average accommodation cost per person: £46
• Average daily meals cost: £10

6. Turkey

With cuisine that will satisfy all taste buds – from succulent kebabs and mezze platters to the sweet, flaky layers of baklava – it’s easy to see why people flock to Turkey. This diverse destination is one of the most visited countries in the world and offers access to everything from palaces and underground cities to idyllic beaches on the Aegean Sea. Istanbul is home to iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, offering a unique blend of history and culture. For those seeking adventure, Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes are perfect for hot air balloon rides and exploring cave dwellings.

• Average daily cost: £91
• Average accommodation cost per person: £41
• Average daily meals cost: £24

5. South Africa

Famous as a haven for safari lovers, South Africa is a new entry on the list. The country is home to the Big Five animals (elephants, buffalos, rhinos, lions and leopards) which visitors may be able to see during a visit to one of the national parks or game reserves. As well as getting to see the wildlife, you can walk among the wildflowers of Namaqua, hike up Table Mountain, go whale watching or relax on one of South Africa’s beaches. If you’re feeling more adventurous, why not try surfing or even shark diving?

• Average daily cost: £81
• Average accommodation cost per person: £37
• Average daily meals cost: £27

4. Thailand

While the price of flights to long-haul destinations can be hefty, these countries offer great value for money once you arrive, which can make the long journey and large price tag worth it. Thailand is known for its jungle temples, tropical beaches, delicious food and elephant sanctuaries. Whether you want to enjoy city life, excellent shopping and night markets in Bangkok and Phuket, or indulge in a slower pace on one of the many islands, including Koh Phi Phi and Koh Samui, the country has something to offer everyone.

• Average daily cost: £45
• Average accommodation cost per person: £29
• Average daily meals cost: £22

3. Indonesia

Indonesia is home to more than 17,000 islands, and also orangutan colonies, volcanoes, pink sand beaches and crater lakes. Bali – one of Indonesia’s most well-known islands – regularly ranks as one of the best places to visit in the world. You can expect excellent service, delicious cuisine, and beautiful landscapes at incredibly affordable prices.

• Average daily cost: £54
• Average accommodation cost per person: £24
• Average daily meals cost: £20

2. Vietnam

Vietnam is a beautiful country brimming with culture – it has eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites and tasty local dishes like bánh mì. The bustle of Ho Chi Minh City will excite your senses, and you can move up the coast and take a tour of Ha Long Bay or look in awe at the world’s largest cave in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. All these activities are available at very reasonable prices.

• Average daily cost: £46
• Average accommodation cost per person: £22
• Average daily meals cost: £16

1. Laos

Laos, in southeast Asia, remains the cheapest country to visit. Despite being landlocked, Laos has more than 4,000 islands. Take in the centuries-old stupas, quaint French cafes and traditional handicraft night markets. Its natural beauty remains largely untouched, with visitors able to enjoy tasty local food, jungle treks, temple visits and waterfalls.

• Average daily cost: £17
• Average accommodation cost per person: £12
• Average daily meals cost: £8