Travel tips for while you’re backpacking Southeast Asia and Australia, or some travel inspiration if you’re sat at a desk wishing you were here. Written by backpackers living or traveling around this side of the world. We’ve got travel advice for Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Go Where Vibes Are High and Prices Are Low The beauty of Southeast Asia? You don’t need stacks of cash to make unforgettable memories. Every country has its own vibe, but some are extra-friendly for travelers counting coins instead of credit cards. Whether you’re beach-hopping in the Philippines, motorbiking through mountain loops in Vietnam, or hopping hostel to hostel in Cambodia — you’ll find plenty of ways to keep costs low if you know where to look. Stay flexible, follow the deals, and go where the adventure feels right. Stay in Hostels (Social Vibes, Not Pricey Hotels) Backpacker rule #1: hostels are your budget travel bestie. They’re not just a place to crash — they’re where the social magic happens. Most budget hostels across Southeast Asia offer: Pro tip: always book direct through hostel websites to score better rates and exclusive deals. Eat Like a Local (Street Food Is King) Forget overpriced tourist menus — the real flavor (and savings) live on the street. Try these wallet-friendly staples across Southeast Asia: Eating local keeps your budget low and gives you a taste of real culture. Win-win. Transport Hacks to Save Big Getting around Southeast Asia doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a bit of flexibility and some local know-how, you can travel across countries on the cheap. Traveling Southeast Asia on a budget is easier when you embrace the chaos and go with the flow — even if that means a bumpy ride or the occasional mystery stop. Choose Group Tours That Hit Hard (and Don’t Hurt Your Wallet) Not all tours are tourist traps. Some are genuinely worth the spend, especially when they include multiple stops, meals, and solid company. Look for tours that offer: Whether it’s a multi-day island trip in the Philippines or a legendary Ha Giang Loop tour in Northern Vietnam, group tours can actually save you money — and definitely save you planning stress. Build a “Chaos Budget” Let’s be real: most of us aren’t using spreadsheets on the road. But having a rough idea of daily spending helps. Here’s a solid budget formula to travel Southeast Asia on a budget: Being broke doesn’t mean being boring. It just means knowing how to make your money stretch — and maybe pre-gaming a little harder before nights out. Pack Light, Pack Smart Don’t overpack — no one wants to haul a 20kg regret across five countries. Focus on what you actually need: You can buy almost anything on the road — and usually for way less than back home. Pack light, move fast, and leave space for souvenirs (or random things you adopt along the way). Final Thoughts You don’t need a big budget to make big memories in Southeast Asia. What you do need is a sense of adventure, a bit of flexibility, and the ability to laugh through the weird, wild, and occasionally sweaty moments. From $2 dinners to $5 dorms, this region is packed with ways to travel cheap without missing out. Plan smart, go with the flow, and remember — the best stories usually don’t start with a five-star resort. Travel hard. Spend light. Make it unforgettable. More Budget Travel Guides for Southeast Asia How to Get Around Southeast Asia on the Cheap – by Nomadic Matt How To Plan an Epic Budget-Friendly Trip to Southeast Asia – by Sacred Footprints Pin Now. Read Later.
Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines, is a treasure trove of excitement and adventure, waiting to be explored by budget-conscious travelers. Whether you’re a backpacker or a young explorer, this city offers a diverse array of activities that promise both fun and affordability. From historical landmarks to mouth-watering street food, Manila is a city that will surprise you at every turn. So, are you ready to dive into the heart of this bustling metropolis and experience all it has to offer? Let’s Jump into affordable activities in Manila! 1. Explore Intramuros on a Bamboo Bicycle History buffs and eco-friendly adventurers alike will love exploring Intramuros, the historic walled city at the heart of Manila, on a bamboo bicycle. These unique bikes add a fun twist to your usual city tour, allowing you to navigate through narrow alleys and along ancient walls with ease. Intramuros, literally “within the walls,” is home to some of Manila’s oldest monuments and buildings, including the majestic Fort Santiago and the stunning Manila Cathedral. Renting a bamboo bike is not only affordable but also supports sustainable tourism. As you pedal past centuries-old structures and learn about Philippine history, you’ll appreciate the blend of cultural heritage and green transportation — a perfect fit for the environmentally conscious traveler. That’s why we’ve added visiting Intramuros to the top of our list of affordable activities in Manila 2. Street Food Tour at Night One of the best ways to dive into the local culture is through its food, and Manila offers an exceptional street food scene that caters to adventurous taste buds on a budget. As night falls, the streets of Manila come alive with vendors offering everything from savory snacks to sweet treats. A must-visit is Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, where you can embark on a culinary adventure tasting affordable dishes like siomai, hopia, and the infamous balut, if you dare! For a more diverse selection, head over to Roxas Boulevard where food stalls line up every evening, offering a scenic view of Manila Bay as you munch on local favorites like adobo, lechon, and halo-halo. This nocturnal food exploration not only fills your stomach but also gives you a slice of Manila life, all without denting your wallet. 3. Hike at Mt. Balagbag For those who want to swap the urban hustle for nature, a hike at Mt. Balagbag is the perfect escape. Mt. Balagbag is located in the province of Rizal, just a few hours from Manila, this destination offers a refreshing break with its scenic trails and panoramic views. Hiking here is not only a budget-friendly activity but also a chance to witness some of the most stunning sunsets over the city and the surrounding countryside. The trail is relatively easy, making it suitable for beginners and the hike itself is free unless you opt for a guide. Remember to pack water and snacks, wear proper hiking shoes, and prepare for a bit of a muddy trek if you’re visiting during the rainy season. This adventure is an ideal way to experience the natural beauty of the Philippines, breathe in some fresh air, and stretch those muscles! 4. Catching a Play at the Metropolitan Theater Manila The newly renovated Metropolitan Theater Manila offers a captivating cultural experience for visitors. When stepping inside the grand theater. Exactly, You’ll be transported back in time, surrounded by the building’s meticulously preserved architectural details and ornate decorative elements. The theater now boasts state-of-the-art technology, including a Dolby Atmos sound system, to enhance the viewing experience. Whether you choose to catch a classic zarzuela, a contemporary play, or…
World Ocean Day, celebrated every June 8th, is a global event that unites people in protecting and preserving our beautiful oceans. As backpackers, we often get the chance to explore the world’s most stunning coastlines and pristine beaches. But with great adventure comes great responsibility. This World Ocean Day, let’s dive into sustainable travel practices and discover how Mad Monkey Hostels are making a splash with their weekly beach clean-up activities. Sustainable Travel: Why It Matters Traveling sustainably is about making choices that benefit the environment, local communities, and future travelers. It’s about leaving the places we visit better than we found them. When we backpack across coastal regions, our actions can have a profound impact on marine ecosystems. Here’s how you can contribute to the cause: Tips for Sustainable Travel Reduce your carbon footprint by packing only what you need. Lightweight backpacks mean lighter loads for transportation, which translates to lower emissions. Opt for biodegradable toiletries, reef-safe sunscreen, and reusable items like water bottles and shopping bags. This minimizes plastic waste that often ends up in the oceans. Whenever possible, use public transport, cycle, or walk. These options are not only eco-friendly but also provide a richer travel experience. Eat, shop, and stay local. Supporting local businesses helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with imported goods and contributes to the local economy. Mad Monkey Hostels are a great example of eco-conscious accommodations. They implement sustainable practices such as reducing water usage, minimizing waste, and supporting local conservation efforts. Beach Clean-Up: A Hands-On Approach to Conservation One of the most direct ways backpackers can contribute to marine conservation is by participating in beach clean-ups. These activities help remove harmful debris from coastal areas, protect marine life, and raise awareness about ocean pollution. Weekly beach clean-up at Long Set Beach. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Koh Rong. Mad Monkey’s Weekly Beach Clean-Ups Mad Monkey Hostels are not just about providing a place to stay—they’re about creating a community that cares for the environment. Every week, Mad Monkey organizes beach clean-up activities at various beach locations. Here’s why you should join: Each piece of trash you pick up is one less hazard for marine life. Beach clean-ups have immediate, tangible results that contribute to healthier oceans. These events are a fantastic way to meet fellow backpackers who share your passion for sustainability and marine conservation. Who knows, you might find a new travel buddy! Beach clean-ups often include educational sessions about the impact of pollution and how to reduce it. This knowledge is invaluable and can be shared with others to amplify the impact. Spending time on the beach, doing something positive, and enjoying the natural beauty is a rewarding experience. It’s a perfect blend of leisure and activism. Swimming with a turtle from a safe distance in Apo Island. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Dumaguete. Marine Conservation Tips and Etiquette Being a sustainable traveler means respecting the places you visit. When it comes to marine conservation, here are some tips and etiquette to keep in mind: Observe marine animals from a distance and avoid touching or disturbing them. Remember, we are guests in their home. Plastics are a major pollutant in our oceans. Reduce your use of single-use plastics by carrying reusable alternatives. Whatever you bring to the beach, take it back with you. This simple rule ensures that you leave the beach as pristine as you found it. Share your knowledge about marine conservation with fellow travelers. The more people are aware, the bigger the impact we can make. Join local initiatives like those organized by Mad Monkey Hostels. Your…
