There is nothing like that feeling of freedom and possibility that comes with setting off with nothing more than a backpack and a bank account that’s less healthy than a diet consisting of only noodles and Red Bull! If you’re ready to trade the comforts of home for the excitement and adventure of the unknown, then get yourself around the world’s top backpacking destinations.
After 10 years on the road, countless hours spent on night buses, and a few too many 7/11 toasties, I am ready to spill the beans on where I reckon are the best backpacking destinations in the world.Grab yourself a cuppa and let’s crack on and check out 10 great backpacking destinations.
1. Thailand–Overall Best Backpacking Destination
We can’t have a top backpacking destinations list without mentioning Thailand now, can we!? Thailand is pretty much a mecca when it comes to backpacking, but don’t think that means that it’s all been done. There’s plenty of this beautiful country to see that is still off the beaten track.
What makes it the best destination for backpackers is that it’s got everything the traveller could ever want or need. It’s affordable, has wonderful cultural sights, mountains, beaches, adventure sports and even deep-fried spiders on a stick! Plus, it’s so established that most people speak good English, and transport is mega easy.
Whether you’re hanging at the beach in Phuket, exploring temples in Ayutthaya, making bad decisions in Bangkok or trekking on the mountainsides of Chiang Mai, I can guarantee you this… you’ll bloody love it! It’s one of the best backpacking travel destinations for a reason.
Oh, and it’s also one of the best places to backpack for beginners. Now, put those elephant pants to good use and go find yourself in Thailand!
2. Vietnam–Best For Budget Travellers
Alright, next on the list is probably my all-time favourite country to backpack around. It’s a little bit more challenging than Thailand for sure, but it also offers you a rich tapestry of adventure, history, culture and intrigue.
Having ridden from the bottom to the top of Vietnam on motorbikes (twice), I’ve been lucky enough to witness the many different sides of this country, from bustling city streets to unspoilt mountain villages. Plus, public transport is easy enough that even on the established tourist trails, it’s easy to take in a multitude of different landscapes and experiences.
From the sea of motorbikes that weaves its way through Saigon to the ancient limestone peaks draped in jungles untouched by man for millennia, you’ll find your jam in Vietnam. It’s one of the best places to backpack if you’re looking for your own unique experience.
It literally offers anyone and everyone the kind of trip they might be interested in taking, and it’s all wrapped up in one Pho-flavoured budget package! Heading from south to north is one of the best backpacking routes I’ve ever done for sure, and one of the ones where I learnt the most lessons from travelling.
3. Indonesia– Best For Island Hopping
Ok, let’s get this out of the way from the off, I LOVE Bali! I know some people with a stick up their arse like to be all high and mighty and profess to hate it, but honestly, the island is pretty big and diverse enough to offer a Bali for everyone.
BUT, I also know that Indonesia is soooo much more than just Bali. Sure, it’s one of the best backpacking locations in Indo, but it’s not the only one!
By all means, visit and have a freaking sick time chasing waterfalls, doing some CrossFit and eating acai bowls, but then be sure to visit a few of the other thousands of islands that make up Indonesia. Unless you’re looking for the ultimate digital nomad destination, Bali takes that crown all day long!
Whether you’re exploring ancient temples on Java, climbing volcanoes on Lombok or chasing sunsets (and getting chased by lizards) on Komodo, Indonesia is one of the top destinations for backpackers wanting to embrace island life.
4. New Zealand – Best For Outdoor Enthusiasts
If you’re one of those folks who just love to be outdoors, away from people, soaking in all that nature has to offer, then you’ll absolutely love New Zealand. Tucked away in a corner of the world often left off many maps, it offers peace, solitude and beauty unlike anything else I’ve ever seen.
Sure, New Zealand isn’t exactly a cheap place to visit, but it’s one of the best destinations for backpackers due to your ability to pick up a working holiday visa, plus, many of its main attractions are free!
Despite the chilled vibes, legendary locals and an overwhelming abundance of sheep, don’t be fooled into thinking it’s shy and retiring! Oh no, NZ packs a punch like no other when it comes to adventure! Throw yourself out of a plane, jump off a bridge or fly down a river at speeds Shorty has not moved at since that “incident” in Yangon. You’ll be spoilt for choice!
Plus, it’s also one of the best winter backpacking destinations and has some of the world’s best ski resorts. But whatever time of year you visit, renting a campervan is by far the best way to explore New Zealand.
5. Malaysia – Best For Diversity
“What’s your favourite country?” is a question I get asked all the time, having visited almost 70 to date. Now, I struggle to answer if I’m honest and always tell people it’s impossible, but if one country comes close, it’s Malaysia.
For me, Malaysia is one of the best backpacking destinations for beginners and experienced travellers alike. Its well-developed transport network makes it easy to get pretty much anywhere, locals often speak great English, and between peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, the diversity in the things to do here is mind-blowing.
Where else can you learn to scuba dive, take a two-day trek up a 4000m peak and see orangutans in the wild… oh, and that was just in Kota Kinabalu! Throw into the mix the tea plantations clinging to the side of a mountain in The Cameron Highlands, the crumbling colonial shophouses on Penang and the super modern Petronas towers in KL, and you’ve got yourself a winner!
Best Backpacking Destinations in India
India offers countless destinations perfect for backpackers seeking adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Some of the most popular backpacking trips include:
- Kedarnath – A spiritual Himalayan journey surrounded by stunning mountain views.
- Golden Temple, Amritsar – Experience Sikh culture, history, and world-famous hospitality.
- Gokarna – A laid-back coastal paradise known for its beautiful beaches and backpacker vibe.
- Goa – The ultimate destination for beach lovers, nightlife seekers, and free-spirited travelers.
- Murudeshwar – Home to one of the tallest Shiva statues and spectacular Arabian Sea views.
- Rann of Kutch – Witness the magical white salt desert and vibrant Gujarati culture.
- Gandikota – Often called the “Grand Canyon of India,” perfect for adventure seekers.
- Yana Caves – Explore unique rock formations hidden amidst lush forests in Karnataka.
Our Favourite Cost and Time-Saving Tips for Backpacking
Right then, so you want to visit some of the best backpacking destinations in the world, well, you’ll be wanting a few pointers then, I suppose!
Transport Costs
Stick to public transport like buses and trains as much as you can. These are the cheapest ways to get around, and let’s be honest, most backpackers are looking at keeping things as cheap as possible.
Regions like Europe and Southeast Asia have amazing public transport networks, and you can get anywhere and everywhere on a bus, train or even a ferry. But also don’t rule out the odd flight, as both regions also offer good budget options, and they can be great if you’re pushed for time.
When it comes to booking, I always recommend booking online as far ahead as you can. This saves queuing up in sweltering conditions surrounded by other sweaty people, only for the language barrier to end up with you buying a ticket for the wrong destination! Plus, some popular routes do sell out at peak times.
Renting a Car or Campervan
Some areas, mostly Eastern Europe (think, places like Albania), Australia and New Zealand, have so-so public transport and getting your own wheels is highly recommended. Car or campervan hire isn’t too expensive, so it’s worth pricing up because you’ll be able to see so many more places along the way.
If you’re someone who likes to visit more off the beaten track destinations, rural spots, go hiking or just likes to make a proper road trip out of it, then I can’t recommend it enough. If you get a campervan, you’ll also have your accommodation covered for the night (plus some campground fees), which often actually makes it more budget-friendly than you might imagine.
Travel Insurance
If you’re gonna be hitting up the best backpacker destinations, you’ll probably be heading to some locations where healthcare might not be as good as back home, or it’s gonna cost you a fortune… or both!
Add that to the probability that you’ll be doing some adventurous shiz, and you need to have some high-quality insurance. I highly recommend Safetywing with its super flexible monthly subscription policies made for those hitting up the best countries for backpackers.
Destinations
If you’re looking for some affordable destinations to put on your travel list for 2026, then I’ve got some perfect suggestions for you!
Even as a diehard budget traveller, it’s not just low prices that guide me, however. I look for destinations that are also safe and have a wide array of exciting experiences.
I mean, sure, Venezuela is cheap… but hyperinflation, kidnapping, and the threat of conflict surely makes the average traveler uneager to hop onto the first plane to Caracas. What we’re looking for here is “cheap, but for the right reasons”.
In this list, I’ve included destinations I’ve traveled extensively, plus a few I’m planning to visit in 2026 that offer exceptional value right now.
FAQ’S
1. What is backpacking?
Backpacking is a budget-friendly way of traveling with essential belongings in a backpack.
2. How do I start backpacking?
Choose a destination, set a budget, plan your route, and pack only the essentials.
3. What should I pack for backpacking?
Carry clothes, comfortable shoes, toiletries, first-aid essentials, documents, and basic travel gear.
4. Is backpacking expensive?
Not necessarily. Staying in budget accommodations and using public transport can help reduce costs.
5. Is backpacking safe for beginners?
Yes, with proper planning, research, travel insurance, and basic safety precautions.