Laos, the landlocked gem of Southeast Asia, is a dream destination for travelers seeking adventure, serenity, and affordability. While neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam often get more attention, Laos offers unique cultural experiences, lush landscapes, and warm hospitality at a fraction of the cost. For backpackers, budget travelers, and digital nomads alike, Laos presents an excellent opportunity to explore without breaking the bank.
If you’re wondering about the cheapest places to travel in Laos, this guide will lead you through the most budget-friendly destinations in the country.
Why Choose Laos for Budget Travel?
Before diving into the specific locations, it’s worth understanding why Laos is considered one of the cheapest countries to travel in Asia.
Low Cost of Living
Everything from accommodation and transportation to food and activities is remarkably inexpensive. Budget travelers can comfortably live on less than $25 USD per day, especially outside the main tourist hubs.
Untouched Natural Beauty
Unlike more commercialized destinations, Laos still retains its rustic charm and authenticity. You can enjoy hiking, waterfalls, caves, and cultural heritage sites for little to no cost.
Friendly Locals and Laid-Back Vibes
The Laotian people are known for their friendliness and hospitality. The pace of life is slow and relaxed, making it perfect for travelers who want to soak in the moment without pressure.
Now, let’s look at some of the cheapest places to travel in Laos where you can experience the country’s magic without draining your wallet.
1. Vang Vieng
Nestled between towering karst mountains and the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng has long been a favorite among backpackers.
Why It’s Cheap
Vang Vieng offers affordable accommodation options ranging from hostels to guesthouses, with beds available for as little as $5 per night. The town’s eateries serve up local and Western dishes for under $2 to $4 per meal. Many outdoor activities like hiking, cave exploring, and river tubing cost under $10.
What to Do in Vang Vieng
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Explore Tham Chang Cave and Tham Phu Kham Cave
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Swim in the Blue Lagoon
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Rent a bike or motorbike to explore the countryside
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Try river tubing or kayaking down the Nam Song
2. Luang Prabang (On a Budget)
Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its preserved architecture, Buddhist temples, and stunning waterfalls. While it has a more upscale image, it’s entirely possible to visit on a shoestring budget.
Budget-Friendly Attractions
Many of the city’s temples are free or request a donation of just a few thousand kip. Kuang Si Waterfall, a must-see attraction, has an entrance fee of around 20,000 kip (about $1 USD). Affordable food is available at the night market, where you can fill up on a buffet-style vegetarian plate for under $2.
What to Do in Luang Prabang on a Budget
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Watch the alms-giving ceremony at dawn
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Visit Mount Phousi for panoramic views (entry ~20,000 kip)
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Tour the Royal Palace Museum (entry ~30,000 kip)
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Rent a bicycle for about $1.50/day to explore the town
3. Nong Khiaw
This small village along the Nam Ou River is often overlooked but is one of the most scenic and affordable places in Laos.
Affordable Nature Retreat
Accommodation in Nong Khiaw is incredibly budget-friendly, with riverside bungalows starting at $7–$10 per night. Meals are equally inexpensive, and natural attractions like hiking trails, caves, and viewpoints are mostly free or have nominal fees.
Must-See Highlights
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Hike to the Nong Khiaw viewpoint (free or donation-based)
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Visit Pha Tok Caves, used during the Indochina war
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Take a boat trip to Muang Ngoi, an even more remote and peaceful village
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Kayaking or tubing in the Nam Ou River
4. Pakse and the Bolaven Plateau
Pakse, located in the south of Laos, is the gateway to the Bolaven Plateau—a region famous for its waterfalls, coffee plantations, and cool climate.
Low-Cost Exploration
Renting a motorbike for around $6 per day allows travelers to explore the Bolaven Loop independently. Accommodation in towns along the loop like Tad Lo or Paksong is extremely cheap, with many guesthouses offering rooms for under $8.
Activities That Won’t Cost a Lot
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Visit Tad Fane, Tad Yuang, and Tad Lo waterfalls (most have a fee of less than $1)
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Tour coffee farms and taste local brew for free or a small fee
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Enjoy roadside meals of laap, sticky rice, and soup for under $2
5. Savannakhet
Savannakhet is Laos’ second-largest city but retains a quiet, almost sleepy atmosphere. It’s often used as a stopover, but its colonial architecture and Buddhist temples make it worth a longer stay.
Excellent for Budget Travelers
Guesthouses and hostels cost around $5–$10 per night. Street food like grilled meat skewers, noodle soup, and sticky rice can be found for under $1–2 per portion. Most attractions in the area are free or donation-based.
Cheap Things to Do
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Explore the French colonial buildings and St. Teresa’s Church
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Visit the Dinosaur Museum (~10,000 kip)
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Enjoy lakeside relaxation at Bungva Lake
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Interact with locals at the night market
6. Muang Ngoi Neua
If you’re looking to truly go off the beaten path, Muang Ngoi Neua is the place. This remote village is only accessible by boat from Nong Khiaw, which already keeps the crowds away.
Minimalist and Cheap Living
Electricity is only available a few hours per day, and internet access is limited, but guesthouses are incredibly cheap—some as low as $3–$5 per night. Meals, often cooked with local ingredients, cost just a few dollars.
Activities in Muang Ngoi
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Hike to nearby ethnic villages like Ban Na and Ban Houay Bo
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Relax in a hammock with a river view
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Visit caves and rivers without paying entrance fees
Tips for Budget Travel in Laos
Eat Local
Local Laotian food is not only delicious but also incredibly cheap. Skip the Western restaurants and try dishes like khao soi, tam mak hoong (papaya salad), and mok pa (steamed fish in banana leaf).
Use Public Transport
Local buses and songthaews (shared taxis) are far cheaper than private taxis or minivans. While less comfortable, they are authentic and cost-effective.
Travel in the Off-Season
The rainy season (May to October) is low season in Laos. You can find lower prices on accommodation and tours while still enjoying the lush green scenery.
Bring Cash
ATMs are not widely available in rural areas, and many places do not accept credit cards. Carry enough cash, preferably in smaller denominations, especially when traveling off the beaten path.
Conclusion
Laos is a haven for budget travelers. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant nightlife of Vang Vieng, the spiritual heart of Luang Prabang, or the untouched wilderness of Nong Khiaw and Muang Ngoi, there’s something for everyone—without needing deep pockets. With thoughtful planning, it’s easy to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and cuisines on a tight budget.
If you’re looking for the cheapest places to travel in Southeast Asia, Laos deserves a top spot on your list. The destinations mentioned here not only offer unbeatable affordability but also rich experiences that money can’t buy.
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