Traveling on a shoestring budget is entirely possible, you just have to make a few informed choices and pre-plan your trip with care.
You want to choose a country with a relatively low cost of living and where the cost of return flights is affordable.
Since it’s right next door to the U.S., Mexico is an ideal location for affordable flights and a much lower cost of living.
Another great destination for cheaper U.S. flights is Guatemala, known for its thriving Mayan culture, geographic diversity, and adventurous outdoor activities.
Continue south to Nicaragua, which has long been one of the cheapest travel destinations in Latin America, with world-class surfing, hiking, and more.
Costs for travel in Colombia can vary widely – from less than $500 for 2 weeks on a backpacker’s budget up to several thousand for luxury travel.
You’ll find hotels and hostels here for as little as $10 per night, and your biggest expense will probably be entry fees to the many national parks and heritage sites.
This Balkan country is very underrated in the U.S., offering gorgeous coastlines, dreamy mountain towns, and medieval castles for as little as $1000 USD for 2 weeks of solo travel.