Jordan is a stunning country, rich in history, culture, and natural wonders. What’s even better is that it’s possible to travel here without breaking the bank. Whether you’re exploring the ancient city of Petra or floating in the Dead Sea, there are plenty of ways to keep your expenses in check while still having an unforgettable experience.
Accommodation: Where to Stay on a Budget
Accommodation can be one of the biggest expenses during your trip, but in Jordan, there are options for every budget. If you’re looking to save money, hostels and budget hotels are the way to go. Hostels in cities like Amman, Wadi Musa (Petra), and Aqaba offer dorm rooms that can cost around 8-15 USD per night.
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Another option is to stay in family-run guesthouses. These places tend to be affordable and offer more of a local experience. You can find rates starting around 20-30 USD per night. Airbnb is also becoming popular in larger cities, where you can rent a room in someone’s home for even less.
For an even cheaper option, consider camping. In Wadi Rum, many Bedouin camps offer an overnight stay under the stars for about 20-40 USD per night, which sometimes includes meals. Some camps even let you bring your tent for a cheaper rate!
Pro Tip: Book in Advance
If you’re traveling during the high season (spring and fall), accommodation can fill up quickly. Book several weeks ahead to get the best prices and options. This can save you money, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Petra.
Saving Money on Food
The good news is that Jordanian food is delicious and relatively inexpensive, especially if you stick to local options. Eating at local food stalls and small family-run restaurants is much more affordable than dining at Western-style venues. A traditional falafel sandwich from a local vendor costs around 1-2 USD, and a hearty shawarma is about the same.
If you’re in Amman, head to Al-Quds Restaurant for affordable and authentic Jordanian meals. Most dishes here cost just 4-6 USD. For a real budget meal, hummus and pita bread make for a cheap and filling option, costing about 1-2 USD per serving.
If you want to go even more budget-friendly, grocery shopping is your friend. Grab some fruits, veggies, and ready-made bread from local shops or supermarkets. You can put together a meal for under 5 USD and even make some basic picnic supplies if you’re exploring outdoors.
Pro Tip: Eat Like a Local
Avoid restaurants aimed at tourists. Instead, ask locals (or your hostel staff) for their recommendations. You’ll likely end up with better food at half the price!
Transportation: Get Around for Less
Jordan has a good public transportation system, and you can save a lot by using it. The cheapest and most commonly used option is the public bus. Buses run between major towns and cities and are very affordable. For example, a bus from Amman to Petra only costs around 10 USD.
Another popular mode of transport available for budget travelers is shared taxis. These are usually minibusses, and they only leave when they’re full. They’re inexpensive and available for nearly every route between cities and towns.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hitchhike, which is relatively common and safe in Jordan. However, always trust your gut and stay safe. Don’t hesitate to say no if you feel uncomfortable.
Pro Tip: Skip Private Taxis
Private taxis can destroy your budget. Instead, try the Careem app, which is like Uber and is often cheaper than traditional taxis. It’s an affordable way to travel within cities, especially in Amman.
Affordable Attractions and Activities
Jordan is home to some incredible historical and natural sites, and many of them are either cheap or free to visit. The Jordan Pass is definitely one of the best money-savers for travelers who plan on visiting multiple attractions. It offers free entry to around 40 sites, including Petra, Wadi Rum, and Jerash. Plus, it covers the cost of your visa. The pass costs between 99-113 USD, depending on how many days you want to spend at Petra. This is a great deal, considering a single day entrance to Petra costs 70 USD on its own.
Free and Cheap Activities
Wandering through Amman is free, and you’ll find lots to do just by walking around. Visit the Roman Theater, the Citadel, or shop in the local markets. Exploring these areas by foot is one of the cheapest and best ways to experience the city.
Another free activity is hiking. If you love nature, Jordan is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Try hiking in the Dana Biosphere Reserve or Wadi Mujib, where trails cost as little as 15-20 USD.
The Dead Sea is a must-do but accessing it through a private resort can be pricey. To save money, visit the Amman Beach, which costs only around 25 USD for a day pass, allowing you access to the beach and showers. Alternatively, head to one of the public beaches for an even cheaper experience.
Pro Tip: Don’t Skip the Desert
Wadi Rum is one of the highlights of Jordan. You can visit on a budget by booking a shared tour, which costs about 30-50 USD depending on the duration. Some camps also include meals and transportation in these prices, which can help you save even more.
Traveling in Off-Season
Visiting Jordan in off-peak times (summer and winter) can help cut down costs significantly. During these times, hotels and tours drop their prices because there are fewer tourists. Summer can be extremely hot, but if you can handle the heat, you’ll save on both accommodation and airfare.
Pro Tip: Take Advantage of Sales
Check airlines for off-season promotions. Sometimes, they’re significantly discounted, especially from nearby hubs like Istanbul or Dubai.
Budget-Friendly Destinations in Jordan
Amman is one of the more budget-friendly capitals in the region, with plenty of cheap eats and affordable public transportation. Wandering around its historical center or visiting the Citadel and Roman Theater will only set you back a few dollars.
Petra may seem expensive, but opting for an early morning or late-day visit will help you get the most out of your ticket. If you’re on a tight budget, consider spending just one day exploring the main sites instead of splurging on multi-day passes.
Outside of the main cities, head to places like Ajloun, which is home to a beautiful castle, forests, and is perfect for nature lovers. You can hike around for free or visit the castle for about 3 USD.
Pro Tip: Visit University Towns
Smaller towns with universities like Irbid often have lower prices on accommodation and food compared to Amman or Petra. They’re also a great way to meet students who will likely give you recommendations on cheap places to eat or visit.
Final Tips for Budget Travelers
One of the best things about traveling on a budget is that it often forces you to have more authentic experiences. Staying in hostels or guesthouses will give you the chance to meet locals and other travelers, and they may introduce you to places you’d never find in a guidebook.
Lastly, always negotiate prices in markets, and even with taxis. Bargaining is common in Jordan, and you’ll often end up paying much less if you’re willing to haggle politely.
With these budget-saving tips, Jordan doesn’t have to cost a fortune. No matter what kind of trip you’re planning, there’s always a way to stretch your budget without missing out on the amazing sights this country has to offer.
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