While traveling is largely beneficial for our mental and physical health, it can also turn into a huge expense. Your flight alone is rather costly, but when you factor in food, hotels, attractions, and any other added purchases, traveling presents quite a financial burden. However, if you’re willing to be flexible with your plans, there are numerous destinations that are affordable to travel to in 2023!  You can also try these travel tips to save money when booking a trip. 

Let’s take a look at the cheapest places to visit in 2023

Thailand

Full of unique culture, breathtaking landscapes, and some of the most welcoming locals, Thailand is a sought-after vacation destination. In Thailand, you can taste the best authentic Thai food, visit the country’s many Buddha statues, and partake in some wild outdoor adventures.

Thailand is one of the cheapest places to visit in 2023, while still providing travelers an unforgettable experience. Hotels can be as cheap as $25 a night, restaurant food is typically very affordable, and transportation is non-expensive as well. The largest expense will be airline tickets, although depending on the airline and time of year you’re traveling, you can find these round trip for $1,000 or less.

Thailand Top Attractions

• The Grand Palace
• Maya Bay

• Temple of the Emerald Buddha
• Banana Beach
• Bangla Road
• The Sanctuary of Truth
• Green Elephant Sanctuary Park

Thailand Notable Cities

• Phuket
• Bangkok
• Pattaya
• Chiang Mai

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is a beachy town that radiates southern charm and a vibrant personality. Because of its jovial energy and thriving attractions, Charleston has become a trendy destination. Because of its popularity, you can find tons of AirBnbs in Charleston that tends to reside in the $50-$120 range. If you’re conscious of where you choose to eat, dining can be fairly inexpensive. 

Charleston Top Attractions

• Charleston City Market
• South Carolina Aquarium 
• Waterfront Park
• Boone Hall Plantation 
• The Shops at The Charleston Place

Peru

Peru is a historical and adventure-oriented region in South America. Rich in ancient history and renowned attractions such as Machu Picchu, Peru is both fascinating and exciting to visit. Guests can tour numerous archeological sites and awe-inspiring nature, such as lush jungles, waterfalls, and mountains.

If you budget right, you can spend $40 or less per day in Peru. A modest hotel will typically cost around $50-$75 per night, while luxury hotels hover in the $200-$300 range. Depending on where you’re flying from and which time of year you decide to visit, round-trip airline tickets can cost as little as $600!

Peru Top Attractions

• Macchu Picchu
• Colca Canyon

• Lake Titicaca
• Lima Main Square
• Sacred Valley
• Cuzco Main Square
• Salcantay

Peru Notable Cities

• Lima
• Cuzco
• Trujillo
• Iquitos
• Huaraz

Argentina

Argentina is an exotic yet affordable vacation destination, home to some of the most incredible views in the world. If you’re an avid thrill seeker or an outdoors lover, Argentina is the place to be. With sky-scraping mountains that reach 22,000 feet, fascinating volcanoes, and shocking geography, Argentina is full of unexpected adventure. The country is also home to impressive architecture, beautiful cathedrals, and a diverse art scene.

You can stay at a nice hotel in Argentina for around $50-$70 per night at the minimum. Typically, luxury hotels cost $200-$400. Argentina has a great selection of food markets, so if you choose to prepare your own meals it will significantly cut down your trip’s cost. However, eating out in Argentina can be much more affordable than in some other countries.

Argentina Top Attractions

• Iguazu Falls
• Aconcagua
• Patagonia
• MACBA – Museum of Contemporary Art
• Parque Nacional Los Glaciares
• Cueva de las Manos
• Tigre

Argentina Notable Cities

Phoenix is not only one of the coolest places to see in the US, but it’s also one of the cheapest places to visit in 2023. There are tons of free attractions, cultural exhibits, and outdoor expeditions guests can enjoy. If you’re not a fan of the heat, plan a winter trip when the humidity has started to go down. There are usually several Expedia package deals in Pheonix throughout the year, which include cheap hotels and airfare. 

Pheonix Top Attractions

• Papago Park
• Desert Botanical Gardens
• South Mountain Park
• Hole in the Rock
• Camelback Mountain

Portugal

Portugal is famous for its delicious seafood dishes, thriving beach destinations, and ancient architecture. While the country retains its historical significance, Portugal is now a hub for soccer icons, celebrities, and affluent travelers. However, Portugal is surprisingly an affordable place to travel to! Hotels in Portugal cost about $50-$100 a night on average, while luxury hotels are on the far more expensive side. So long as you aren’t looking for a lavish vacation, Portugal is one of the best countries to go on a budget.

Portugal Top Attractions

Mexico Top Attractions

• Chichén Itzá
• Palacio de Bellas Artes
• Puerto Vallarta
• Oaxaca
• El Castillo 
• Copper Canyon
• Two Eyes Cenote
• Playa Norte

Mexico Notable Cities

• Tulum
  Cancun
  Playa Del Carmen
  Isla Cozumel
  Puerto Vallarta

Philippines

The Philippines consists of over 7,500 islands, each filled with lush, exotic beaches. The Philippines has become an increasingly popular vacation choice over the last few years, especially appealing to young people who are traveling on a budget. There are tons of unique and adventurous activities to do in the Philippines such as scuba diving, cliff jumping, canyoneering, and shark watching. The Southeast Asian country boasts some of the most stunning views, with its vivid waters and vibrant city attractions. 

Ferry rides in The Philippines can be as low as 4 USD, and you can typically buy a meal for about the same cost or even less in some cases. 

Philippines Top Attractions

• Banaue Rice Terraces
• Coron Island
• Chocolate Hills
• Fort Santiago
• Mayon Volcano
• Rizal Park
• Manila Ocean Park
• Big Lagoon
• Mount Pinatubo

Philippines Notable Cities

• Cebu
• Boracay
• Bohol
• El Nido
• Vigan
• Coron
• Manila
• Siargao
• Sagada
• Puerto Galera
• Donsol
• Iloilo City

Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City is one of the most beautiful and exciting places to visit in the US. Immersed in Utah’s gorgeous Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountains, guests receive the city experience with a view. Salt Lake City is home to plenty of eccentric shops, festivals, great restaurants, and some of the best ski resorts. Luckily, there are many low-cost transportation options and free attractions in Salt Lake City. If you search thoroughly on AirBnb and VRBO, you can usually find lodging for a decent price. Eating out can get expensive, however, so you may want to consider cooking for yourself. 

Salt Lake City Top Attractions 

• Snowbird Ski Resort
• Liberty Park
• Hogle Zoo
• City Creek Center