Germany Tourists Can Visit Thailand, Africa, Portugal, Turkey And More If They Want Budget Travel Then Accessing These in Unbelievably Cheap Ways in 2026 is Possible: Know How

Published on August 27, 2025

Travel is a gateway to new experiences, but rising costs pose challenges, especially for German travelers seeking budget-friendly destinations. With inflation and high demand pushing airfares and hotel rates higher, planning an affordable trip for 2026 requires smart strategies. By mid-2025, international airfares were about one-fifth higher than pre-pandemic levels, with Destatis reporting a significant rise in costs, particularly for flights to Africa and Europe, while fares to Asia, Australia, and Central America saw a drop. Meanwhile, the euro’s exchange rates remained favorable, offering strong purchasing power in many emerging markets like Thailand, Vietnam, India, Indonesia, and Mexico. For those planning a trip, understanding these trends is crucial—daily spending can vary widely, with Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe emerging as affordable options, while long-haul travel to places like North America or Africa remains pricier. By leveraging government-verified data from the European Central Bank, U.S. Department of State, and Destatis, German travelers can navigate inflationary pressures and explore the world without overspending in 2026.

This report provides a detailed guide for German citizens who intend to travel on a tight budget in 2026. The information draws on government‑verified sources whenever possible. Data on currency conversion come from the European Central Bank (ECB). The ECB publishes euro exchange rates against many currencies; for example on 26 August 2025 the ECB’s reference rate showed that one euro bought about USD 1.1656 and JPY 171.7. These reference rates provide official benchmarks for converting budgets into local currency. Daily spending estimates for accommodation and meals are derived from official per diem rates used by governments when sending employees abroad. For instance, the U.S. Department of State’s 2025 foreign per diem table lists a maximum lodging rate of USD 219 and a meals‑and‑incidentals allowance of USD 121 per day in Bangkok; together these figures produce a daily allowance of USD 340. Although aimed at U.S. officials, such per‑diem data offer a government‑verified measure of the local cost of hotels and food. Flight‑fare trends come from Destatis through news reports – for example, economy‑class flights to Central America were 15.8 % cheaper in the first half of 2024 than a year earlier, while flights to Asia and Australia were 12.3 % cheaper. Conversely, airfares to Africa rose 4.1 % and intra‑European flights were 2.7 % more expensive. These figures illustrate how airfares vary by region.

Budget travel is not just about saving money; it is also about understanding exchange rates, picking the right season, using public transport, and staying in affordable lodging. With careful planning and knowledge of official data, German travellers can enjoy rich experiences across the world in 2026 without breaking the bank. The following sections detail the cost patterns and attractions in different regions, highlighting countries that offer value for money

Methodology

This guide uses the following official data sources:

1. Exchange rates – The European Central Bank (ECB) publishes daily euro reference exchange rates. These rates are used here to convert foreign prices into euros for comparability. On 26 August 2025, the reference rates showed EUR 1 = USD 1.1656, JPY 171.77, BGN 1.9558 and CZK 24.544. The report assumes similar rates for 2026 with adjustments for known trends. Readers should check the ECB’s latest data closer to departure.
2. Per diem allowances – The U.S. Department of State’s Foreign Per Diem Rates (DSSR 925) provide maximum lodging and meals‑and‑incidentals allowances for many locations. For example, the allowance for Bangkok in June 2025 is USD 219 for lodging and USD 121 for meals. The report treats the lodging allowance as the upper limit for a mid‑range hotel and the meals allowance as a generous daily food budget. Where per diem data are unavailable, approximate budgets are based on conservative estimates from multiple government sources and travel advisories.
3. Flight‑price trends – Data on airfares come from the German Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) as reported by Reuters. Destatis noted that flights to Central America were 15.8 % cheaper, to Asia/Australia 12.3 % cheaper and to North America 7.4 % cheaper in the first half of 2024 compared with the previous year. In contrast, flights within Europe were 2.7 % more expensive and flights to Africa were 4.1 % more expensive. These trends are used to estimate relative flight costs from Germany in 2026.
4. Travel advisories – The German Federal Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt) provides travel and safety information for every country. Although not focused on costs, these advisories are essential for understanding health, visa and security issues. Readers should consult the latest advisories before booking.

Prices and exchange rates change, and budgets vary by travel style (backpacker vs. mid‑range). The figures here provide reasonable estimates for budget‑conscious travellers: modest hotels or guesthouses, street food or inexpensive restaurants, local public transport and economy‑class flights. Where possible, the report converts costs into euros using the ECB rates and into local currency for on‑the‑ground spending.

Understanding flight costs and exchange‑rate trends

Flight‑fare patterns

Airfares often constitute the largest single cost of long‑haul trips. Destatis’ 2024 data illustrate strong regional differences. After a post‑pandemic surge in ticket prices in 2023, economy‑class flights from Germany became cheaper for several long‑haul regions in 2024: passengers paid 15.8 % less for flights to Central America and 12.3 % less for flights to Asia and Australia compared with 2023. Tickets to North America were also cheaper (down 7.4 %), which suggests that competition and increased capacity on transatlantic routes may drive down prices. Conversely, the same report noted that flights to Africa became 4.1 % more expensive and flights within Europe were 2.7 % more costly. Domestic German flights rose only 0.2 %, but travellers within Germany can often rely on trains to keep costs low.

These trends can inform 2026 planning. If airfares to Asia and the Americas remain relatively low compared with European or African routes, long‑haul budget travellers may consider venturing farther afield. However, flights to Asia/Australia are still long and thus more expensive in absolute terms. For planning purposes, the report assumes typical round‑trip economy fares from Frankfurt or Berlin in 2026 (excluding baggage fees) as follows:

These estimates are not official prices but reflect typical ranges observed in 2024/2025 and adjust for trends. Booking at least three months in advance, flying mid‑week, avoiding school holidays and using budget carriers (e.g., Ryanair, Wizz Air, AirAsia) can reduce fares further. German travellers should also consider climate factors: the rainy season in Southeast Asia (May–October) or hurricane season in the Caribbean (June–November) often brings lower fares and hotel discounts.

Exchange‑rate considerations

Exchange rates influence what travellers can buy with each euro. A strong euro makes destinations cheaper. The ECB’s reference rates of 26 August 2025 show how many units of foreign currency one euro buys; the following table lists several currencies relevant to budget travellers and their approximate value in euros. The table uses the ECB rates as a benchmark. Values are rounded and likely to change by 2026.

These conversions provide a baseline for budgeting; travellers should check updated rates close to departure. Countries with weak currencies (e.g., Vietnam, Turkey) offer excellent value when paid in euros, but hyper‑inflation (as in Argentina or Turkey) can erode purchasing power quickly. Always carry some local cash, and use fee‑free cards where possible.

Budget‑friendly destinations in Asia

Asia remains one of the most cost‑effective regions for German travellers. Long‑haul flights are the main expense, but once in the region, daily costs for food, accommodation and transport can be very low. The following countries stand out for value and richness of experience.

Thailand

Why it’s budget‑friendly: Thailand offers an unbeatable mix of beaches, temples and cuisine. The Thai baht (THB) has been relatively weak against the euro, and street food and guesthouses are inexpensive. The U.S. State Department’s per diem table lists a daily lodging allowance of USD 219 and a meals & incidentals allowance of USD 121 for Bangkok; however, travellers on a budget routinely spend far less. A clean room in a Bangkok guesthouse costs about €15–€25 per night, and meals from street stalls cost €2–€4. Intercity buses and trains are cheap (Bangkok–Chiang Mai around €15). Flights from Germany to Bangkok (one stop via the Gulf) typically cost €650–€850 if booked early. The rainy season (May–October) sees lower prices.

Currency conversion: With EUR 1 ≈ THB 37.82, a daily budget of THB 1,200 (approx. €32) covers hostel, meals and transport for a backpacker. Mid‑range travellers can budget around THB 2,500 (€66) for a nicer hotel and some tours.

Tips: Avoid peak seasons (December–February), use local buses and songthaews instead of taxis, and haggle respectfully in markets. The government’s Tourism Authority of Thailand website provides updated tourism regulations and safety information.

Vietnam

Why it’s budget‑friendly: Vietnam is known for its vibrant street food, lush landscapes and low prices. One euro buys about 27,400 VND, so even small sums go far. A bowl of pho costs around VND 30,000 (≈€1.10), and decent guesthouses charge €8–€15 per night. Long‑distance buses or trains linking Hanoi, Hue and Ho Chi Minh City cost €15–€25. The main expense is the flight from Germany (usually via the Middle East), costing €650–€900. The rainy season differs between the north (May–October) and south (June–November), which can help identify cheaper travel windows.

Currency conversion: A daily backpacker budget of VND 500,000 (~€18) covers hostel accommodation, street food and local transport. A mid‑range budget of VND 1 million (~€36) allows for private rooms and occasional splurges. Always withdraw cash from ATMs with low fees; some banks impose foreign card surcharges.

Tips: Visa‑free entry for German tourists is currently allowed for 45 days (check updated rules). Use overnight trains to save on accommodation and transport. Be cautious when crossing busy roads. The Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides visa and entry updates.

India

Why it’s budget‑friendly: India offers diverse cultures, cuisines and landscapes at very low prices. The Indian rupee trades around ₹90 per euro; local meals cost ₹100–₹200 (€1.10–€2.20) and budget hotels ₹1,200–₹2,000 (€13–€22). Long‑distance trains (e.g., Delhi–Varanasi) cost ₹600–₹1,500 (€7–€17). The flight from Germany to Delhi or Mumbai typically ranges €600–€800. India’s size means travel times can be long, but overnight trains and low‑cost domestic carriers (e.g., IndiGo) make getting around affordable.

Currency conversion: A daily budget of ₹2,500 (~€28) suffices for a backpacker. A mid‑range budget of ₹4,000 (~€44) allows for comfortable guesthouses and occasional domestic flights. Currency exchange is tightly regulated; use ATMs or authorised money changers.

Tips: India’s climate varies; travel during the cooler months (October–March). Always drink bottled or filtered water. German citizens can obtain an e‑Visa online. Check the German Federal Foreign Office’s advisory for region‑specific safety information.

Indonesia

Why it’s budget‑friendly: Indonesia, an archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, offers volcanoes, beaches and cultural richness. The Indonesian rupiah (IDR) stands around IDR 17,000 per euro; simple meals cost IDR 20,000–40,000 (€1.20–€2.40), and guesthouses IDR 150,000–300,000 (€9–€17). Bali and Java are popular; local transport via scooters or buses is cheap. Round‑trip flights from Germany to Jakarta or Bali cost €650–€900, often via Singapore, Doha or Dubai.

Currency conversion: A daily backpacker budget of IDR 350,000 (~€20) covers a hostel bed, food and local transport. A mid‑range budget of IDR 700,000 (~€40) allows for nicer lodging and activities like diving. Note that some tourist sites charge higher entrance fees to foreigners.

Tips: The dry season (May–September) is ideal for Java and Bali but also high season; visiting during the shoulder months (April or October) reduces costs. Respect local customs and dress modestly, particularly outside resort areas. Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism provides updated regulations on visa‑free entries and tourist levies.

Philippines

Why it’s budget‑friendly: The Philippines attracts travellers with pristine beaches and friendly locals. The Philippine peso (PHP) trades around PHP 60 per euro; a street meal costs PHP 80–120 (€1.40–€2), and budget rooms range PHP 800–1,500 (€14–€27). Domestic flights between islands can be found for €20–€50 if booked early. However, flights from Germany to Manila or Cebu are longer and cost €750–€1,000. Monsoon seasons vary across the islands, so choose islands in their dry season to enjoy better weather and lower costs.

Currency conversion: A daily budget of PHP 1,500 (~€25) covers basic lodging, meals and transport. A mid‑range budget of PHP 2,500 (~€42) allows for private rooms and island‑hopping tours. Always carry cash when visiting remote islands.

Tips: Check entry requirements (most tourists can enter visa‑free for 30 days). Typhoon season (June–November) can disrupt travel but also yields discounts. The Department of Tourism of the Philippines offers travel advisories and sustainable tourism guidelines.

Sri Lanka

Why it’s budget‑friendly: Sri Lanka offers beaches, wildlife and UNESCO‑listed ancient cities. The Sri Lankan rupee (LKR) trades around LKR 355 per euro, making local expenses low. Meals cost LKR 400–800 (€1–€2), and guesthouses LKR 3,000–5,000 (€8–€14). Train journeys (such as the scenic Kandy–Ella line) cost only €1–€2. The island suffered economic turmoil in 2022–2023, leading to currency depreciation and lower costs. Round‑trip flights from Germany cost €600–€850.

Currency conversion: A daily backpacker budget of LKR 7,000 (~€20) covers lodging, food and transport. A mid‑range budget of LKR 12,000 (~€34) allows for better hotels and excursions. Exchange euros at official banks rather than informal traders.

Tips: Travel during the dry seasons (December–March for the west/south and May–September for the east). Respect local cultural norms at religious sites. Check updated fuel and transport conditions; economic disruptions can affect availability of buses and trains. The Sri L Lankan Tourism Development Authority publishes official guidelines.

Cambodia and Laos

Both Cambodia and Laos remain affordable even by Southeast Asian standards. In Cambodia, one euro equals roughly KHR 4,400 or USD 1.17 (the U.S. dollar is widely accepted). Guesthouses in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap cost €8–€15; meals cost €2–€4. Visiting the Angkor temples requires a ticket (~€30/day) but still represents good value. In Laos, a simple room costs LAK 100,000–180,000 (€5–€10), and meals are around €1–€2. Transport via minivans or riverboats is cheap. Flights from Germany to Phnom Penh, Vientiane or Luang Prabang cost €650–€950, typically via Bangkok or Hanoi.

Budget‑friendly destinations in Europe

Short‑haul flights and the convenience of the Schengen Area make Europe attractive for budget‑minded German travellers. However, Western Europe is relatively expensive, so the focus here is on Eastern and Southern countries where the euro or local currency stretches further.

Bulgaria

Bulgaria consistently ranks among the cheapest destinations in the European Union. One euro equals roughly 1.96 lev because the lev is pegged to the euro. In Sofia, a meal at a local restaurant costs BGN 8–12 (€4–€6), and a bed in a hostel costs BGN 25–40 (€13–€20). In tourist resorts on the Black Sea (Varna, Burgas), prices rise slightly in summer. Round‑trip flights from Germany start at €50–€150. Long‑distance buses and trains across the country cost €5–€15. A daily budget of BGN 60–80 (€30–€40) suffices for most travellers.

Romania

Romania offers medieval towns, castles (including Bran, associated with Dracula) and Carpathian mountains. The Romanian leu trades at about RON 5.06 per euro. Hostels in Bucharest or Brașov cost RON 70–100 (€14–€20), while meals cost RON 20–40 (€4–€8). Domestic trains are inexpensive (Bucharest–Cluj around €12). Budget airlines offer flights from Germany for €40–€120. A daily budget of RON 150–200 (€30–€40) covers accommodations, meals and local transport.

Albania and North Macedonia

These Balkan countries are not yet overrun by tourists but offer stunning landscapes and low prices. The Albanian lek trades around ALL 100 per euro. In Tirana, a meal costs €3–€5, and a double room costs €20–€30. Intercity buses are cheap (Tirana–Sarandë about €12). North Macedonia uses the denar (MKD), with €1 ≈ MKD 61; meals and accommodation are similarly affordable. Flights from Germany to Tirana or Skopje cost €70–€150. Overland buses from neighbouring Greece or Bulgaria are also options. Budget travellers can manage on €25–€35 per day.

Portugal (off‑season)

Portugal is more expensive than Eastern Europe but remains one of the cheaper Western European countries. The euro is the national currency; outside high‑season, prices drop. In Lisbon or Porto, a bed in a hostel costs €20–€25, and a simple meal €8–€12. Public transport (metro, buses) is inexpensive. Flights from Germany can be found for €60–€180 off‑season (November–March). A daily budget of €40–€50 suits thrifty travellers. Visiting the Azores or Madeira costs more due to higher flight prices.

Greece

Greece uses the euro. Mainland destinations like Athens, Thessaloniki and Peloponnese are cheaper than popular islands such as Santorini or Mykonos. Hostels in Athens cost €15–€20, and meals at tavernas €8–€12. Intercity buses cost €10–€20. Ferry tickets to islands range €20–€50. Flights from Germany to Athens are as low as €70 if booked months ahead. A daily budget of €45–€60 allows for comfortable travel if expensive islands are avoided.

Poland

Poland’s zloty (PLN) trades around 4.26 PLN per euro. In Kraków or Warsaw, hostel beds cost PLN 50–80 (€12–€18), and meals cost PLN 20–35 (€5–€9). Intercity trains (Warsaw–Gdańsk) cost around PLN 60–100 (€14–€23). Flights from Germany start at €30–€100 depending on the city. A daily budget of PLN 150–200 (€35–€47) is adequate.

Budget‑friendly destinations in the Americas

The Americas offer cultural diversity, natural wonders and, in many countries, favourable exchange rates for Europeans. However, long flights and sometimes higher entry fees can raise total costs. The following destinations provide good value.

Mexico

Why it’s budget‑friendly: Mexico combines ancient ruins, colonial towns and beaches. The Mexican peso trades at about MXN 19 per euro. In Mexico City, tacos al pastor cost MXN 20–30 (€1–€1.50), and dorm beds cost MXN 200–300 (€10–€15). Regional buses (Mexico City to Oaxaca) cost MXN 400–600 (€21–€32). Domestic flights can be cheap if booked early. Round‑trip flights from Germany to Mexico City or Cancún cost €600–€850 depending on season.

Budget: A daily backpacker budget of MXN 800 (~€42) covers lodging, meals and transport. Mid‑range travellers may spend MXN 1,500 (~€79) per day. Mexico charges a tourism tax (about €22) included in airline tickets.

Tips: Avoid hurricane season (June–October) on the Caribbean coast. Use ADO buses for long distances; they are comfortable and safe. Check the Mexican immigration website for visa rules and tax information.

Guatemala

Guatemala offers Mayan sites, colourful markets and volcanos. The quetzal (GTQ) trades around GTQ 8.5 per euro. In Antigua or Lake Atitlán, meals cost GTQ 20–35 (€2–€4), and hostel beds GTQ 60–80 (€7–€9). Shuttles between tourist towns cost GTQ 100–200 (€11–€23). Flights from Germany go via the U.S. or Mexico and cost €700–€1,000. A daily budget of GTQ 200–250 (€23–€29) works for backpackers.

Peru and Bolivia

These Andean neighbours offer Incan and pre‑Incan ruins, Andean landscapes and low costs. The Peruvian sol (PEN) trades at around PEN 4.1 per euro, while Bolivia uses the boliviano (BOB) at roughly BOB 8 per euro. Budget meals in Lima cost PEN 8–12 (€2–€3), and hostels PEN 30–45 (€7–€11). In Bolivia, set meals cost BOB 20–30 (€2.50–€3.75), and beds BOB 60–80 (€7.50–€10). Buses from La Paz to Uyuni cost BOB 100–150 (€12–€19). Round‑trip flights from Germany to Lima are €700–€1,000. Travellers can survive on €25–€35 per day in these countries.

Colombia

Colombia’s peso (COP) has depreciated, making it attractive for euro earners. One euro buys about COP 4,200. Meals in Bogotá or Medellín cost COP 10,000–20,000 (€2.40–€4.80), and hostel beds COP 30,000–50,000 (€7–€12). Long‑distance buses cost COP 70,000–100,000 (€17–€24). Flights from Germany to Bogotá or Cartagena (via Madrid) cost €650–€900. A daily budget of COP 120,000–150,000 (€28–€36) is adequate. Always check safety conditions; some rural areas remain risky.

Argentina

Argentina has experienced significant inflation and currency controls. The official peso rate differs from the widely used “blue dollar” exchange rate; travellers should bring euros or dollars to exchange at favourable rates through authorised exchanges. Despite economic challenges, costs for visitors remain low. A steak dinner in Buenos Aires can cost as little as €5–€7 at local rates. Hostels cost €10–€15. Domestic flights (e.g., Buenos Aires to Mendoza) may be priced in dollars. International flights from Germany cost €800–€1,200. Because of volatility, travellers should monitor exchange‑rate developments and consult official Argentine tourism boards for guidance.

Budget‑friendly destinations in Africa and the Middle East

Africa and the Middle East present a mix of cheap destinations and moderately priced ones. Flights may be shorter than to Asia or the Americas, but some countries have high entrance fees or require guided tours.

Morocco

Why it’s budget‑friendly: Morocco offers medinas, deserts and mountains close to Europe. The Moroccan dirham trades at about MAD 11 per euro. Meals cost MAD 30–50 (€2.70–€4.50) and hostels MAD 60–100 (€5.50–€9). Intercity buses (e.g., Marrakech to Fes) cost MAD 100–150 (€9–€14). Round‑trip flights from Germany to Marrakech or Agadir cost €150–€300. A daily budget of MAD 250–300 (€23–€27) covers lodging, food and local transport.

Egypt

Egypt’s currency (EGP) has devalued considerably. One euro buys around EGP 34. A meal of koshary costs EGP 30–50 (€0.90–€1.50), and budget hotels cost EGP 200–400 (€6–€12). Long‑distance trains (Cairo–Luxor) cost EGP 150–300 (€4.50–€9). The major expense is the entrance fee to archaeological sites, for example EGP 450 (€13) for the Giza pyramids. Flights from Germany to Cairo cost €200–€400. A daily budget of EGP 500–700 (€15–€21) suffices.

Turkey

Turkey straddles Europe and Asia, making it a geographically convenient destination. The lira has depreciated significantly, so one euro buys about ₺30. Meals in Istanbul cost ₺60–100 (€2–€3.50) and hostel beds ₺150–250 (€5–€8). Intercity buses (e.g., Istanbul–Cappadocia) cost ₺400–600 (€13–€20). Domestic flights on Turkish Airlines or Pegasus can be good value. Round‑trip flights from Germany to Istanbul can be as low as €150. A daily budget of ₺600–₺800 (€20–€26) covers accommodation, meals and transport.

Jordan

Jordan offers the ancient city of Petra, the Dead Sea and desert landscapes. The Jordanian dinar (JOD) is pegged at JOD 1 ≈ €1.30 (1 JOD ≈ 1.41 USD). Prices are higher than in other Middle Eastern countries: hostel beds cost JOD 8–12 (€10–€15), and meals JOD 3–5 (€3.90–€6.50). Entrance to Petra costs JOD 50 (€65). Flights from Germany to Amman cost €250–€400. A daily budget of JOD 25–30 (€32–€39) is realistic. Jordan’s Ministry of Tourism posts updated visa and site fees.

Tunisia

Tunisia uses the dinar (TND). One euro buys about TND 3.2. Meals cost TND 5–10 (€1.50–€3), and hostel beds TND 20–30 (€6–€9). Intercity louage (shared taxis) cost TND 10–20. Flights from Germany to Tunis cost €120–€250. A daily budget of TND 70–90 (€22–€28) suffices. Tunisia offers Carthage ruins, Mediterranean beaches and Sahara excursions at low cost.

Budget‑friendly destinations in Oceania (caveats)

Oceania is generally expensive due to its distance from Europe and higher local wages. Flights from Germany to Australia or New Zealand cost €1,000–€1,400, and daily expenses are comparable to Western Europe. However, budget travellers may consider Fiji or Samoa during stopovers. Fiji’s currency (FJD) trades at about FJD 2.45 per euro; local meals cost FJD 10–15 (€4–€6), and dorm beds FJD 25–40 (€10–€16). Domestic buses on Viti Levu are cheap. Flights from Germany usually involve multiple stops and high fares; therefore Oceania is not recommended for tight budgets unless flights are heavily discounted.

Travel planning and cost‑saving tips

1. Book flights early and be flexible – Airfare is the largest expense for long‑haul travel. According to Destatis, regional fare changes vary widely, so compare multiple routes and carriers. Use price‑alert services and be flexible with dates and airports (Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, Düsseldorf). Consider “open‑jaw” tickets (arriving in one city, departing from another) to avoid back‑tracking.
2. Travel off‑season – Visiting during the shoulder or low season reduces costs for flights and hotels. For example, Southeast Asia’s rainy season (May–October) or southern Europe’s winter (November–February) often yields discounts. Check climate patterns to avoid extreme weather.
3. Use public transport – Local buses, trains and shared taxis are cheaper and more authentic. In many countries (India, Indonesia, Morocco), long‑distance buses cost less than €20 and save on accommodation when overnight.
4. Stay in hostels or homestays – Hostels, guesthouses and homestays provide budget accommodation and cultural interaction. Many destinations feature well‑rated hostels at €5–€20 per night. Booking platforms list options with reviews.
5. Eat like a local – Street food and local eateries deliver authentic tastes at low prices. In Bangkok, a full meal costs around €2–€4. Avoid imported alcohol and dining at tourist restaurants where prices are inflated.
6. Use official resources – Consult the German Federal Foreign Office for travel and safety advisories. Check each country’s tourism ministry or board for visa requirements and current entrance fees. Use official per diem tables as a benchmark for daily costs; these rates (e.g., USD 219 lodging, USD 121 M&IE in Bangkok[3]) indicate upper‑limit costs for mid‑range travel.
7. Monitor currency changes – Exchange rates can shift quickly. Use the ECB’s daily reference rates[2] to monitor trends and exchange some currency before departure. Consider using multi‑currency accounts or fee‑free cards.
8. Avoid hidden fees – Budget airlines often charge extra for luggage, seat selection and payment methods. Read the fine print to avoid surprises. Some countries charge departure taxes or mandatory travel insurance (e.g., Cuba, Jordan). Include these in your budget.

Travelling on a tight budget in 2026 is still feasible for Germans who plan carefully and choose destinations where the euro stretches furthest. Government‑verified data provide valuable anchors: official per diem rates show that lodging and meals in Bangkok may cost up to USD 340 per day—but savvy travellers can spend far less. The European Central Bank’s exchange rates illustrate how strong the euro remains against currencies in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe and parts of Africa. Destatis’ airfare data highlight regional trends such as falling prices to Asia and the Americas and rising costs for Africa and European routes. Combining these data with local knowledge yields a list of destinations where budget travellers can experience culture, nature and history without overspending.

In Asia, Thailand, Vietnam, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Cambodia and Laos stand out for their low daily costs and favourable exchange rates. Eastern European countries like Bulgaria, Romania, Albania, North Macedonia and Poland offer cultural richness at modest prices. In the Americas, Mexico, Guatemala, Peru, Bolivia and Colombia provide excellent value, though flights are long. North African nations—Morocco, Egypt and Tunisia—and Middle Eastern gateways like Turkey and Jordan combine affordable living costs with short‑haul flights. Oceania remains expensive, but stopover visits to Fiji can be managed on a budget.

Ultimately, the keys to budget travel are flexibility, awareness and respect for local conditions. Use official exchange‑rate data and per diem allowances as baseline guides, monitor flight‑price trends, and adjust plans according to seasonal changes and personal comfort levels. With thoughtful planning and an adventurous spirit, German travellers can explore diverse corners of the world in 2026 without stretching their wallets.

Sources

https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/international-air-fares-germany-down-3-first-half-2024-2024-07-16/
[2] Euro foreign exchange reference rates
https://www.ecb.europa.eu/stats/policy_and_exchange_rates/euro_reference_exchange_rates/html/index.en.html
[3] allowances.state.gov
https://allowances.state.gov/web920/per_diem_action.asp