Ever wonder which country lets you stretch every pound on a vacation? You’re not alone. A lot of travellers chase cheap stays, cheap food and cheap fun, but the choices can feel overwhelming. Below you’ll find straight‑forward advice to spot the cheapest country for your style, plus a few quick ideas that work right now.
First, look at three numbers: accommodation cost, daily food price and transport expense. Countries where you can snag a decent cottage or hostel for under £30 a night, eat a meal for £5‑£8, and move around on cheap buses or trains usually rank at the top of the cheap list. Sites like Venture Retreats let you filter by price, so you can compare cottage rates across the UK, Ireland, Portugal and beyond without opening a dozen tabs.
Second, check the exchange rate. A strong pound means you get more local currency, which directly cuts your out‑of‑pocket costs. Nations with weaker currencies – think parts of Eastern Europe, the Balkans or South‑East Asia – often give you the biggest bang for your buck.
Third, consider the season. Visiting a country off‑peak can drop prices dramatically. For example, a coastal town in Portugal is pricey in July but you can find a beachfront cottage for half the price in September.
Portugal’s Alentejo region – Rural retreats cost around £25 a night, and fresh seafood meals hit the £6 mark. Plenty of free hiking trails keep the itinerary cheap.
Poland’s Mazury lakes – You’ll find hand‑picked cottages for £20‑£30, and a hearty pierogi dinner stays under £5. Public transport links are reliable and cheap.
Romania’s Transylvania – Mix of historic towns and mountain cabins, nightly rates start at £22 and local taverns serve meals for £4‑£7.
All three spots are featured in our tag page posts, like the “Cheapest Places to Vacation” guide and the “Least Expensive House Styles to Build” article, which give extra details on cost breakdowns.
When you book, use the “last‑minute city breaks” tip if you’re flexible – sometimes you’ll snag a boutique hotel deal that’s cheaper than a pre‑booked cottage.
Finally, keep an eye on travel‑saver tricks: booking accommodation that includes a kitchen cuts food costs, using discount rail passes shaves transport fees, and traveling with a small group lets you split cottage rates.
By focusing on these three factors – accommodation, food and transport – you can quickly narrow down the cheapest country that matches your vibe. Ready to start planning? Browse the posts under the “cheapest country” tag and pick the destination that feels right for your wallet and wanderlust.
Want to find out which country is the cheapest place to fly to right now? This guide breaks down which destinations offer the lowest airfare in June 2025 and reveals the real reasons for the deals. Get expert advice on how to score even better ticket prices, plus inside tips on cheap airlines, lesser-known airports, and common money-saving mistakes. All facts are up to date and ready to help you save big on your next trip.