3 Affordable Destinations to Travel to in 2024… Before It’s Too Expensive

Are you dreaming of your next escape in 2024 but don’t want to break your bank account?

Here are 3 affordable or budget-friendly destinations that you should add to your bucket list before it’s too late.

1. Portugal

Portugal has become a popular tourist spot in recent years. There’s no question why, as the country is known for having over 300 days of sun and is home to delicious seafood and pasteis de nata (Portuguese egg custard pastries). The country offers everything from beautiful beaches in the Algarve region or unique castles and UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city of Sintra.

I slow traveled Lisbon and Portugal for about a month in January 2023 and I was able to (for the most part) stick to my budget of €30/day.

While it is nice that Portugal is affordable for many US travelers compared to other countries in Europe, it is important to be aware of why this is. The average salary in Portugal is €1044 per month in 2023. Furthermore, due to the influx of digital nomads, gentrification and inflation have become serious problems in the past few years. I have noticed that the prices have increased since I last visited Lisbon in 2019. I wanted to highlight this because when you’re traveling to other countries, it’s always important to be mindful and educated on these matters.

Nonetheless, I still encourage everyone to visit Portugal and be considerate of the impact that their travel can have on the locals. Take the time to learn more about the history of Portugal and the beautiful Portuguese culture. Eat at local restaurants and visit history and art museums. Experience a fado show (traditional Portuguese music typically performed in pubs or restaurants) and learn how to make the famous pasteis de nata.

2. Costa Rica

Costa Rica has been a popular tourist destination for many years now. This Central American country is the perfect getaway for the adrenaline junkie or the beachgoer. It has lush green rainforests, crystal blue waterfalls, and white sand beaches.

I visited Costa Rica in December 2023, rented a car with a couple of friends, and road-tripped around the country.

While Costa Rica can certainly be a luxurious romantic getaway, it can also be done on a budget. I stayed in an Airbnb in Monteverde that cost $28/night when split among 3 girls. The hostel I stayed at in Tamarindo cost $30/night for a private room. The rental car was the highest expense for my trip, costing us $650 for 5 days, including insurance. You can expect meals to cost slightly less than meals in the US. Costa Rica also accepts US currency, making it easy for US travelers to visit.

Compared to the US, Costa Rica is more affordable. However, compared to many Central American and Caribbean countries, it is more expensive. The cost of living in Costa Rica is increasing each year, especially with the increasing number of ex-pats and foreigners moving to the country. Therefore, you should visit Costa Rica before it’s too expensive for budget travelers and luxury travelers alike.

3. Thailand

Photo taken from Unsplash

Thailand is a tropical destination located in Southeast Asia. It has beautiful beaches, ornate temples, and bustling cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

It has become a popular tourist destination over the past few years, as well as a digital nomad and ex-pat hub.

While I have not been to Thailand yet, I know many people who have. It is a great destination for young solo backpackers to start their Southeast Asia tour. Those who have been have reminisced to me about their times learning about Thailand’s unique culture, swimming in the white sand beaches, and eating the delicious local cuisine.

It’s easy to find hostels in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Phuket for $10/night. The train system is also very affordable, with prices from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (740 km apart) as low as $20. The food is extremely cheap as well, with a plate of pad thai costing $1.50 on the street.

Like Portugal and Costa Rica, I believe that the cost of travel to and around Thailand will increase in the coming years, so the best time to go is sooner than later. As more and more tourists visit and digital nomads or ex-pats move to these countries, the cost of living will increase.

Remember to be considerate of the locals when visiting their home country and take the extra time to learn about the local culture and history.

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