Traveling with your family doesn’t have to break the bank. In 2025, dozens of destinations around the world offer unforgettable experiences at wallet-friendly prices—think pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures that kids and adults will love.
This guide covers the top 10 affordable places to travel in 2025, with tips on scoring cheap flights via Aviasales, booking budget stays, and packing smart with Temu’s affordable gear. Let’s dive in!
1. Vietnam
Why It’s Affordable:
Vietnam’s weak currency (VND) means your dollar stretches far. Street food costs 1–3, and family-friendly hostels start at $15/night.
Top Family Activities:
- Cruise Halong Bay ($25/day tours via Aviasales).
- Explore Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets (free walking tours).
- Visit the Golden Hands Bridge in Da Nang.
Where to Stay:
- Budget Pick: Little Hoi An Boutique Hotel ($20/night on Hotellook).
Estimated Daily Cost for a Family of 4: 80–120.
2. Mexico (Oaxaca)
Why It’s Affordable:
Skip pricey Cancún for Oaxaca, where colonial charm meets 30/night Airbnb rentals.
Top Family Activities:
- Hierve el Agua natural rock pools ($5 entry).
- Monte Albán archaeological site ($10/family).
- Cooking classes ($15/person).
Where to Stay:
- Budget Pick: Casa de las Bugambilias ($40/night on Hotellook).
Estimated Daily Cost for a Family of 4: 90–150.
3. Portugal (Algarve)
Why It’s Affordable:
Portugal remains Europe’s best-value destination. Enjoy fresh seafood dinners for $25 and beach front villas from $80/night.
Top Family Activities:
- Kayak through Benagil Cave ($30/family).
- Zoomarine Algarve theme park ($50/family tickets).
- Surf lessons in Lagos ($20/person).
Where to Stay:
- Budget Pick: TUI BLUE Falésia ($70/night on Trip.com).
Estimated Daily Cost for a Family of 4: 110–180.
4. Indonesia (Lombok)
Why It’s Affordable:
Lombok is Bali’s quieter, cheaper sibling. Private villas with pools start at 50/night, and snorkeling trips cost $10/person.
Top Family Activities:
- Hike Mount Rinjani (free for kids under 12).
- Visit pink beaches on Tangsi Island ($5 boat ride).
- Gili Islands day trip ($25/family).
Where to Stay:
- Budget Pick: Pondok Santi Estate ($55/night on Trip.com).
Estimated Daily Cost for a Family of 4: 70–130.
5. Guatemala
Why It’s Affordable:
Guatemala’s lakes, volcanoes, and Mayan ruins are wildly underrated. Hostels with family rooms start at $25/night.
Top Family Activities:
- Climb Pacaya Volcano ($10/family guided tour).
- Explore Antigua’s cobblestone streets (free).
- Boat tour of Lake Atitlán ($15/family).
Where to Stay:
- Budget Pick: Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo ($60/night on Aviasales).
Estimated Daily Cost for a Family of 4: 80–140.
6. Morocco (Marrakech)
Why It’s Affordable:
Morocco’s riads (traditional guesthouses) offer luxury at $50/night, and street food feasts cost $10/family.
Top Family Activities:
- Jardin Majorelle gardens ($5/kids free).
- Atlas Mountains day trip ($25/family).
- Camel rides in Agafay Desert ($15/person).
Where to Stay:
- Budget Pick: Riad Dar Anika ($55/night on Hotellook.com).
Estimated Daily Cost for a Family of 4: 90–160.
7. Costa Rica (Puerto Viejo)
Why It’s Affordable:
Skip touristy Tamarindo for Puerto Viejo, where jungle lodges start at $40/night and national park entry is $12/family.
Top Family Activities:
- Sloth-spotting in Cahuita National Park ($12/family).
- Surf lessons at Playa Cocles ($20/person).
- Chocolate farm tour ($15/kids free).
Where to Stay:
- Budget Pick: Hotel Banana Azul ($65/night on Hotellook).
Estimated Daily Cost for a Family of 4: 100–170.
8. Romania (Transylvania)
Why It’s Affordable:
Romania’s medieval towns and castles are Europe’s hidden gem. Family meals cost $20, and train tickets are $10/person.
Top Family Activities:
- Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) tour ($15/family).
- Hike Carpathian Mountains (free).
- Sibiu’s Astra Museum ($10/family).
Where to Stay:
- Budget Pick: Hotel Transilvania ($50/night on Trip.com).
Estimated Daily Cost for a Family of 4: 80–150.
9. Thailand (Chiang Mai)
Why It’s Affordable:
Thailand’s northern capital offers $5 massages10 cooking classes, and guesthouses from $20/night.
Top Family Activities:
- Elephant Nature Sanctuary ($50/family).
- Night markets (free entry, $1 snacks).
- Doi Suthep Temple ($3 entry).
Where to Stay:
- Budget Pick: Green Tiger House ($25/night on Trip.com).
Estimated Daily Cost for a Family of 4: 70–120.
10. Bolivia (Uyuni Salt Flats)
Why It’s Affordable:
Bolivia is South America’s cheapest country. Salt flat tours cost $80/family, and hostels start at $15/night.
Top Family Activities:
- Uyuni Salt Flats 4×4 tour ($80/family).
- La Paz’s cable car system ($0.50/ride).
- Lake Titicaca day trip ($25/family).
Where to Stay:
- Budget Pick: Hotel Palacio de Sal ($70/night on Aviasales).
Estimated Daily Cost for a Family of 4: 60–110.
How to Save on 2025 Family Travel
- Book Flights Early: Use Travelpayouts’ Aviasales tool to track price drops.
- Pack Smart: Grab Temu’s Collapsible water bottles and 4in 1 Travel Neck Pillow U-shaped Pillow Set .
- Use a VPN: Check regional flight prices.
FAQs
Q: What’s the cheapest time to book flights for 2025?
A: Aim for 3–6 months in advance and avoid peak seasons like summer and holidays.
Q: Are these destinations safe for kids?
A: Yes! All spots are family-friendly, but check travel advisories for updates.
Q: How do I earn cashback with Travelpayouts?
A: Sign up for free, grab your affiliate links, and share them in your content.