Joseph JackIntroduction: The Joy of Traveling on a Budget
Traveling doesn’t always need deep pockets. With smart planning, you can explore some of the world’s most fascinating destinations while keeping costs shockingly low. One of the best ways? Staying in hostels under $20 per night. Not only does this keep your expenses down, but it also opens doors to new friendships and experiences.
In this guide, we’ll dive into 15 budget travel itineraries across Asia, Europe, Central and South America, and beyond. Whether you’re a student, a backpacker, or simply someone who loves stretching every dollar, this list will help you travel farther for less.
Why Budget Travel Itineraries Are a Game-Changer
Travel More for Less
When you follow budget travel itineraries, you free up funds to explore multiple destinations in a year instead of just one luxury trip.
Meeting People Through Hostels
Hostels aren’t just cheap beds; they’re hubs of cultural exchange where you can connect with travelers worldwide.
Stretching Your Money Without Sacrificing Fun
With guides like cost-saving travel tips, you’ll discover that “budget” doesn’t mean boring—it means smart.
Tips for Finding Hostels Under $20
Use Booking Platforms and Apps
Websites like Hostelworld and Booking.com often list dorms under $20. Pair these with insider tips from cheap travel hacks.
Travel During Off-Season
If you plan off-season travel, you’ll find hostels slashing prices by up to half.
Consider Dorm Rooms Over Private
Shared dorms can cut costs dramatically while giving you access to social spaces.
Look for Student-Friendly Discounts
Take advantage of student budget travel deals to save even more.
15 Budget Travel Itineraries with Hostels Under $20
1. Backpacking Vietnam on $20 a Day
Highlights: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An
Vietnam remains a king of budget travel in Asia. You can enjoy steaming bowls of pho for $1, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant markets—all on a tight budget.
Hostel Picks: Little Charm Hanoi Hostel, Tribee Kinh Hoi An.
More ideas: Vietnam budget travel.
2. Island Hopping in the Philippines
Highlights: Cebu, Palawan, Siargao
With turquoise waters and postcard beaches, the Philippines is ideal for island-hopping adventures. Hostels range between $8–$15.
Hostel Picks: Spin Hostel (Palawan), Mad Monkey Cebu.
Related: Philippines budget travel.
3. Exploring Central America on a Shoestring
Highlights: Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras
Central America blends volcanoes, Mayan ruins, and beaches with beds for under $12.
Hostel Picks: The Purpose Hostel (Guatemala), Bigfoot Hostel (Nicaragua).
Explore more: Backpacking Central America.
4. Cheap Europe Trips: Backpacking Eastern Europe
Highlights: Poland, Hungary, Slovakia
Eastern Europe offers authentic culture, hearty meals, and hostels for $12–$18.
Hostel Picks: Greg & Tom Hostel (Krakow), Maverick City Lodge (Budapest).
Browse: Cheap Europe trips.
5. Student Budget Travel in Greece
Highlights: Athens, Crete, Santorini
Even on iconic islands like Santorini, you can grab dorms under $20 if you travel smart.
Hostel Picks: City Circus Hostel (Athens), Youth Hostel Oia (Santorini).
See also: Greece travel.
6. Affordable Meals & Hostels in Argentina
Highlights: Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Patagonia
Argentina is a foodie’s dream—steak dinners for $8, empanadas for $1, and hostels between $10–$18.
Hostel Picks: Milhouse Hostel (Buenos Aires), Hostel Lagares (Mendoza).
Explore more: Argentina budget travel.
7. Cheap Philippines Tips for Island Lovers
Highlights: Boracay, Bohol, Coron
You’ll find hostels under $10 near some of the most beautiful beaches on earth.
Hostel Picks: Frendz Hostel (Boracay), Moon Fools Hostel (Bohol).
Learn more: Cheap Philippines tips.
8. Budget-Friendly Thailand Backpacking
Highlights: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket
Street food, night markets, and hostels for $5–$7 make Thailand legendary for budget travelers.
Hostel Picks: NapPark Hostel (Bangkok), Stamps Backpackers (Chiang Mai).
9. Off-Season Travel in Italy
Highlights: Rome, Florence, Venice
Travel in winter and you’ll find dorms in Rome for as little as $18.
Hostel Picks: The Beehive (Rome), Plus Florence.
Plan smarter with: Europe travel.
10. Cheap Trips in Portugal
Highlights: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve
Portugal is both affordable and charming, offering coastal bliss with budget-friendly stays.
Hostel Picks: Yes! Lisbon Hostel, Gallery Hostel Porto.
Read more: Cheap trips.
11. Backpacking Europe: Budget Luxury Tips
Highlights: Prague, Berlin, Krakow
With budget luxury tips, you can enjoy stylish hostels for under $20.
Hostel Picks: PLUS Prague, Wombats Berlin.
12. Central America Budget Travel
Highlights: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Belize
Backpackers can score $12–$18 dorms while exploring rainforests and ruins.
Hostel Picks: Selina San Jose (Costa Rica), La Zona Hostel (El Salvador).
Browse: Central America budget.
13. Vietnam Budget Travel Adventures
Highlights: Da Nang, Hue, Ho Chi Minh City
The south is just as wallet-friendly as the north, with endless street food options.
Hostel Picks: Vietnam Backpacker Hostels (Hue, HCMC).
More: Backpack Vietnam.
14. Cheap Student Stays in Spain
Highlights: Barcelona, Madrid, Seville
Spain’s vibrant cities are packed with history, tapas, and $15 dorm beds.
Hostel Picks: Kabul Party Hostel (Barcelona), Toc Hostel (Madrid).
Explore: Cheap student stays.
15. Backpacking Turkey on a Budget
Highlights: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya
Turkey combines East and West, with hostels starting at $8 per night.
Hostel Picks: Cheers Hostel (Istanbul), Shoestring Cave House (Cappadocia).
Bonus: Cheap Travel Hacks for Staying Under Budget
- Cook Your Own Meals: Save money by using hostel kitchens, inspired by cheap food travel.
- Use Local Transportation: Skip taxis—go local.
- Free Walking Tours: Many cities offer donation-based tours.
- Student & Group Discounts: Always ask—especially for student travel deals.
Conclusion: Budget Travel Opens the World
From Asia’s hidden gems to Europe’s bustling capitals, traveling on a budget isn’t about limiting your experiences—it’s about unlocking more of them. With these 15 budget travel itineraries with hostels under $20 per night, you’ll explore the world more deeply, make new friends, and keep your wallet happy.
So, pack your bag, grab your hostel bunk, and start your adventure—your budget will thank you.
FAQs
1. Are hostels safe for solo travelers?
Yes—most have lockers and good security. See student hostels for tips.
2. How far in advance should I book a hostel?
2–3 weeks in peak season, same-day in low season.
3. Do hostels include free breakfast?
Many do—it’s an easy budget savings trick.
4. Can I find hostels for under $20 in Europe’s big cities?
Yes, especially in Eastern Europe or if you choose off-season travel.
5. What should I pack for hostel stays?
Bring a padlock, towel, flip-flops, and earplugs.
6. Are budget itineraries only for students?
No! While popular for student budget travel, they work for everyone.
7. How can I make new friends in hostels while traveling?
Join hostel events or group tours—like street food tours.