If you’re looking for an affordable place to travel in Southeast Asia, Laos should be at the top of your list. Laos is budget-friendly, easy to travel around, and offers plenty of experiences without breaking the bank. From adventure activities and serene landscapes to delicious street food, there’s plenty to do and see without spending much.
Accommodation
Finding budget accommodation in Laos is easier than you might think. Hostel dorms are widespread and prices start around $5-10 USD per night. Some basic guesthouses even offer private rooms for as low as $10-15 USD, especially in less touristy areas.
Stick to Guesthouses and Hostels
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Avoid large hotels that cater to tourists. Guesthouses are usually family-run, and you’ll not only save money, but you’ll also support the local economy. Hostels are another cheap option. Many come with free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
Look for Homestays in Rural Areas
When you’re outside bigger cities like Vientiane or Luang Prabang, homestays can be as cheap as $5 per night. These also offer a more authentic experience as you stay with local families.
Food
Laos has some of the best street food in Southeast Asia. You can stay full and happy on just a few dollars per day if you eat like a local.
Eat at Street Stalls
A plate of Laap (a spicy meat salad) or a traditional Lao baguette sandwich will cost you around $1-2 USD. Sticky rice and grilled meat skewers are also cheap and tasty.
Skip Western Restaurants
Western food is often three to four times the price of local food with little added benefit. Avoid pizza or burgers and stick with Laotian dishes. You’ll not only save money but you’ll also get the true taste of Laos.
Transportation
Getting around Laos on a budget is all about knowing which transport options are worth it. Laos doesn’t have extensive train networks, but buses, boats, and scooters will get you where you need to go.
Take Local Buses
Public buses are the cheapest way to travel between cities. For example, a bus from Vientiane to Luang Prabang costs around $15-20 USD, depending on the level of comfort. Local buses are cheaper, but they take longer and are less reliable.
Rent a Scooter
If you’re comfortable riding scooters, you can rent one for $6-10 USD per day. In more rural areas, this can be a great way to explore at your own pace without paying for organized tours or taxis.
Share a Private Van
If traveling with a group, a van can actually cost less per person than taking the bus. Vans offer a faster and more direct route to many destinations, and splitting the cost keeps it budget-friendly.
Attractions
Getting into nature and visiting temples are some of the best things to do in Laos—and they are either free or very cheap. Here’s how to enjoy the best attractions on a budget.
Visit Temples
Temples like Vat Phou or temples in Luang Prabang are incredibly cheap to visit—often only a couple of dollars for entry. Many of Laos’s most famous temples, like Wat Sisaket in Vientiane, cost about $1 USD to enter.
Check Out Waterfalls
Laos is home to stunning waterfalls, and most of them only cost around $2-3 USD to visit. Kuang Si Falls near Luang Prabang is the most famous and well worth the trip.
Go Hiking or Biking
The natural beauty of Laos is one of its biggest attractions. Hike through rice fields, by rivers, or up mountains for free! Renting a bike is also budget-friendly, costing about $2-5 USD per day. It’s a fantastic way to explore rural areas at a slow pace.
Budget-Friendly Destinations
Not all destinations in Laos are created equal when it comes to travel costs. Some areas can be pricier, especially where tourists gather. However, there are many budget-friendly places where you can really stretch your dollar.
Vang Vieng
This tranquil town is a hub for budget travelers, offering cheap accommodation, food, and activities. Go tubing on the Nam Song River or explore hidden caves. You can even find happy hour drinks for less than $2 USD.
Luang Namtha
If you love trekking and eco-tourism, Luang Namtha is for you. It’s much cheaper than some of the better-known parks like Vang Vieng and offers endless opportunities to hike and explore local villages. Look for multi-day jungle tours that can cost as little as $25 per day if you share the trip with a group.
4000 Islands (Si Phan Don)
This beautiful cluster of islands is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Laos. Stay in a bamboo bungalow with a river view for as low as $5-7 USD, rent a bike to explore, and enjoy simple yet tasty meals at tiny riverside cafés. Hammocks are free!
Free or Cheap Activities
Enjoying Laos doesn’t mean you have to pay for expensive tours. In fact, most of the country’s best experiences are either free or very cheap.
Enjoy Free Walking Tours
In cities like Vientiane or Luang Prabang, simply wandering around can be one of the best ways to experience the area. Explore temples, riverfront walks, and local markets.
Visit Local Markets
Markets in Laos are vibrant and filled with affordable food. The night market in Luang Prabang is particularly famous for its cheap eats and souvenirs. You’ll get to sample different Laotian dishes without going over budget.
Volunteer
Volunteering is increasingly popular in Laos. It’s not only free, but many programs offer free accommodation and meals. You can volunteer to teach English or help with environmental projects. It’s a meaningful way to travel without spending money.
Other Money-Saving Tips
Lastly, here are some extra tips to save even more money while you travel around Laos.
Use a Water Bottle with a Filter
Don’t spend money on bottled water. Instead, bring a refillable bottle with a built-in filter. This can save you money while also cutting down on plastic waste.
Negotiate Prices
Laos isn’t as packed with tourists as other countries, so prices in markets and tourist spots are not always set in stone. Feel free to politely negotiate over souvenirs or even accommodation to get a better rate.
Travel During the Low Season
From May to October, the wet season brings fewer tourists and lower prices. If you don’t mind getting a little wet, you can save big on accommodation and tours.
Limit Drinking
Alcohol can add up quickly, especially at bars. While Laos’s famous Beerlao is cheap—around $1 USD—cutting back on alcohol will keep your budget in check and leave you with more money for activities.
Laos is an easy place to travel on a tight budget. With some smart planning, you can enjoy your trip without spending much. Stick to authentic local experiences, enjoy the country’s natural beauty, and explore the small towns—and you’ll have an unforgettable trip without breaking the bank.
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