How to Travel Asia in 3 Months on a Budget
Planning to travel Asia for 3 months? You’ll need a solid budget, smart strategies, and a flexible mindset. But how much should you expect to spend? How can you keep costs low without missing out on experiences? Let’s break it down step by step.
Budgeting and Daily Expenses
A realistic budget for travelling around Asia for 3 months is around $35–$50 per day, or $1,000–$1,500 per month. This covers accommodation, food, local transport, and activities.
- Accommodation: Hostels, guesthouses, and homestays are your best bets. Dorms range from $5 to $15 per night, while private rooms in budget hotels cost around $20 to $40. Apps like Trip.com and Klook often have discounts.
- Food: Eating local keeps costs down. Street food meals cost as little as $1.50–$2.50, while a sit-down restaurant meal is $4–$12. For cheap, filling breakfasts, look for steamed buns, soy milk, or tea eggs as example.
Pre-Trip Planning
- Flights: Book early and compare prices. Use flight comparison sites but clear your cookies or use another device for the final booking, many travel apps increase prices for repeat visitors. Sometimes, airline websites offer better deals.
- Visas: Research visa rules for each country. Some allow visa-free entry, while others require applications. Check if there are multiple visa options. One might be cheaper than the other.
- Travel Insurance: If you want full coverage, get travel insurance for medical emergencies and theft. But let’s be honest, many budget travelers skip it and take the risk.
Do not buy a overpriced sim card at the airport. Your phone might have a esim app (Samsung has) but you can also check out Saily for plans.
Managing Money on the Road
- Currency Exchange: Exchange money in larger amounts for better rates. Avoid airport kiosks, as their rates are terrible.
- Banking: Use a travel-friendly debit or credit card with low fees. We recommend Revolut. It works great in most Asian countries.
- Tracking Expenses: Apps like Revolut help you monitor spending. Keeping track helps avoid overspending.
Saving on Accommodation
- Longer Stays: Some hostels and guesthouses offer discounts for extended stays. Ask directly.
- Direct Booking: Some hotels and hostels charge less if you book with them directly instead of using booking platforms.
Transportation Hacks
- Local Transit: Public transport is much cheaper than taxis or ride-sharing apps. Learn how to use the metro, buses and shared tuk-tuks.
- Overland Travel: Instead of flying, take overnight buses or trains. You’ll save money and a night’s accommodation.
- City Transport: Many cities have cheap bike-sharing programs or metro passes that cut costs and avoid traffic jams.
Eating on a Budget
- Street Food: Can be cheap, delicious, and a great way to experience local flavors. But make sure you avoid touristic areas, as the food there is much more expensive. Also, touristic places often offer “snack” food which is often sweet and or deep fried.
- Self-Catering: If your hostel has a kitchen, cook simple meals to save money.
- Workmen’s Breakfast: In the morning, find local stalls selling meals aimed at workers. These are filling, cheap, and delicious.
Sightseeing and Activities
- Free Attractions: Many cities have parks, temples, and museums with no entry fee.
- Group Discounts: Join group tours for better prices. Some activities charge less for groups.
- Hidden Gems: Check our city blogs for less touristy, budget-friendly places worth visiting.
Staying Safe and Healthy
- Vaccinations: Check if you need any shots before entering certain countries.
- Local Laws: Some countries have strict rules. Read up on what’s legal and what’s not.
Packing Smart
- Clothing: Pack light and versatile clothes for different climates.
- Essential Gear: A good backpack, comfortable shoes, and a reusable water bottle make life easier.
Cultural Tips and Local Interaction
- Learn Basic Phrases: A few local words can help with discounts and friendly interactions.
- Join Local Events: Festivals and cultural events are often free and offer an authentic experience.
Final Thoughts
Travelling around Asia for 3 months on a budget is absolutely possible. Plan wisely, keep an eye on expenses, and stay flexible. The best experiences don’t have to cost a fortune. Sometimes, they come from exploring, meeting locals, and enjoying the journey.
