How to Travel for $50 a Day in 2025?
Many people think travelling abroad or across India needs a big budget. But that’s not true. With simple planning and smart spending, you can travel for just $50 a day (roughly ₹4,000). This includes food, stay, transport, and small activities. People from India, especially students and young families, are now trying to budget travel more than ever.
In this guide by Travelblog, you’ll learn how to make the most of your money while still enjoying your trip.
What $50 a Day Really Covers?
Let’s understand what this daily budget can include:
Expense | Average Cost (INR) |
Stay (hostel/guesthouse) | ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 |
Food (local meals) | ₹600 – ₹800 |
Transport (bus/train/local) | ₹300 – ₹400 |
Entry tickets/attractions | ₹300 – ₹500 |
Other expenses (SIM, water, snacks) | ₹200 – ₹300 |
Total | ₹3,500 – ₹4,000 |
This is not a fixed rule, but a guide based on real experiences shared by many travellers on Travelblog. It can vary by country or city, but with planning, $50 a day works well.
Choose the Right Places
Some countries are more budget-friendly. For Indians, the best options include:
- Thailand – Cheap food, public transport, and low-cost stays.
- Vietnam – Easy visas, safe cities, and affordable shopping.
- Nepal – Nearby, and Indian rupees are widely accepted.
- Indonesia – Bali offers budget hostels and scooter rentals.
- Turkey – Public transport is good, and local meals are cheap.
These destinations are not just affordable but also safe and popular among Indian tourists. You’ll find local food, helpful people, and many free places to visit. We’ve written travel guides for these places on Travelblog.
Save on Flights and Travel
Flight tickets can take up a big part of your budget. Here’s how to manage that:
- Book early – At least 60 days in advance for good deals.
- Use alerts – Use sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights.
- Compare options – Check different airlines and travel dates.
- Travel light – Avoid paying for extra luggage.
Also, consider budget airlines and connecting flights. They may take a bit more time but can save you money. For domestic travel in India, go for trains and buses wherever possible.
Stay Smart: Accommodation on a Budget
Skip expensive hotels. Try these:
- Hostels – Shared dorms or budget private rooms.
- Homestays – Stay with local families.
- Guesthouses – Simple rooms with basic services.
- Booking platforms – Use Booking.com or Hostelworld for offers.
Many places offer free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Some even let you cook, which saves more. Check reviews before booking. We also recommend budget stays in our Travelblog destination guides.
Eat Well Without Spending Much
Food doesn’t have to be expensive when you travel. Here’s how you can enjoy local flavours without hurting your wallet:
- Eat where locals eat – Small shops and food stalls are cheap and tasty.
- Avoid big restaurants – They usually cost more and serve less.
- Street food – Tasty, fresh, and low cost.
- Carry snacks – Keep nuts, energy bars, or biscuits with you.
Some hostels have a kitchen where you can cook. Local markets also sell fresh fruits and ready-to-eat food. A simple meal can cost as little as ₹100 in some countries.
Move Around Like a Local
Skip taxis unless needed. Go for:
- Public buses or metro – Cheap and connect most places.
- Shared tuk-tuks or autos – Negotiate the price.
- Bike or scooter rentals – Great for short trips.
Walking is also a great way to see the city. Use Google Maps and ask locals for directions.
Do More with Less
Not everything fun costs money. Many free or cheap things to do include:
- Local parks and public beaches
- Walking tours offered by hostels
- Free museum days
- Visiting temples, churches, or mosques
- Local cultural events or street performances
Make a list before you go. You’ll find many ideas shared on Travelblog every week.
Money Tips to Keep in Mind
- Carry a currency card or UPI-linked international card
- Avoid airport currency exchange counters
- Use local ATMs when needed
- Track your expenses with a small notebook or mobile app
Spending within the limit becomes easy when you write down what you spent each day.
What to Avoid
To stay within your $50 a day, avoid these:
- Last-minute bookings
- Fancy restaurants
- Private cabs
- Tourist traps with high entry fees
- Shopping more than needed
Also, don’t try to visit too many places in one trip. Staying in one region for longer helps save on transport and gives you time to enjoy.
Final Words
Travelling on a budget is not just about saving money—it’s about smart planning. With ₹4,000 a day, you can enjoy your trip without worry. Whether it’s your first solo travel or a family getaway, this guide can help you get started.
We at Travelblog aim to make budget travel simple for everyone. Follow us for easy tips, honest advice, and new ideas every week.
Travel is simple. Travel smart. Travel within your means. And keep reading Travelblog for more guides like this.