Thursday, March 13, 2025

Budget-friendly backpacking for students: Travel destinations & easy visa guide

For students, backpacking is almost a right of passage. However, it can come with a hefty bill and complicated visa requirements. For some, this can make the dream seem almost impossible. 

However, there are plenty of countries that are great options for those on a lower budget and those who want to avoid the unnecessary complications of being accepted into the country. 

With that in mind, here are some of the best budget friendly and easy visa destinations for students. 

Thailand 

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for backpackers because it is very inexpensive. Accommodation, food, and transportation are all incredibly affordable. Local beers are just over £1, a meal for two at a mid range restaurant is around £20, and a one way ticket on local transport can be as low as 60p. 

As Thailand is such a popular place to go, the tourist infrastructure is fantastic and there are plenty of things to see and do. 

You can also stay in Thailand for tourism purposes without a visa for 30 days. If you plan on staying longer than 30 days, you will need to get a visa. Luckily the requirements for Thai visas are simple and the process is easy to follow. 

Vietnam 

Vietnam has some breathtaking locations that make for a memorable trip. Not only is it a beautiful country, but it’s pretty cheap. 

Vietnam is actually less expensive than Thailand. A local beer will set you back just over 60p, a meal for two at an average restaurant is around £18, and a typical one way ticket on public transport is just 25p. 

You can also visit Vietnam as a tourist for 45 days without the need for a visa. If you’re looking to stay longer, getting a visa isn’t too difficult. 

Cambodia

Cambodia is a wonderful country with stunning beaches and mesmerising temples. Filled with culture, it’s definitely not one to miss out on. 

Cambodia is ever so slightly more expensive than Thailand and Vietnam, but only marginally. It’s still an exceptionally affordable place to visit. Local beers are around 70p, a meal for two people typically comes in at around £22, and the average one way ticket on local transport is just over £1. 

You will require a visa to go to Cambodia and tourist visas are valid for 30 days.

Make your visa application simpler

If you’re travelling across multiple countries, using a visa service such as OnTrailVisa can make the process considerably easier to manage and save you heaps of time. It will also help reduce your costs, since you’re less likely to have applications rejected, which can become expensive. 

Don’t let budget stop you

If travelling is your passion, don’t let a lower budget limit your explorations. There are plenty of destinations, particularly in Southeast Asia, that are ideal to visit if your budget is on the smaller side. 

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