It's no secret that the Canadian dollar isn't the strongest right now, leaving many travellers second-guessing where their money will go the furthest. There are two ways to make your budget stretch: you can either look for destinations with a favourable exchange rate or focus on places that are already inexpensive to visit.
If you're looking for the former, head here to check out where the exchange rate works in your favour. But, if you're more interested in cheap destinations where the cost of hotels, food and transport are low — no matter what the exchange rate is doing — look no further.
A recent report by HelloSafe listed the cheapest places Canadians can visit in 2025 and found that in some spots, you can cover your entire daily budget, including accommodations, meals, and local transportation, for less than $100 per day, with some destinations as cheap as $22 per day.
That means you could spend 10 days exploring a stunning new destination for as little as $250 in expenses. And while that doesn't include flight costs (which can vary depending on factors like departure airport and season), it does mean that once you arrive, you can enjoy incredible experiences without worrying about breaking the bank.
From hidden gems in Europe to sun-drenched Caribbean getaways and vibrant South American escapes, these destinations offer incredible experiences at a fraction of the cost of other popular travel spots.
Laos
Daily Budget Required: $22
Why You Need To Go: Laos is a paradise for budget travellers and backpackers, with lush jungles, hidden waterfalls, and centuries-old temples, all at incredibly low prices. Compared to its tourist-heavy neighbours, this Southeast Asian is an off-the-beaten-track gem.
With tasty street food available for just a few dollars and daily expenses averaging $22, you could easily spend 10 days here for less than $250 — which is a steal regardless of the weak Canadian dollar.
Armenia
Daily Budget Required: $37
Why You Need To Go: Armenia is a budget-friendly gem with stunning mountain landscapes, ancient monasteries, and a vibrant capital city. In Yerevan, you can explore Republic Square, sip Armenian coffee, and enjoy affordable but delicious eats.
Outside the city, visit breathtaking spots like Tatev Monastery or Lake Sevan without spending much. With daily expenses averaging just $37, which includes food, accommodations, and transport, you can experience Armenia's rich culture and scenery for a fraction of what you'd spend visiting this country's neighbours.
Georgia
Daily Budget Required: $39
Why You Need To Go: Georgia is another underrated spot where breathtaking mountain landscapes, historic towns, and delicious food come at surprisingly low prices. This slice of paradise offers everything from hiking in the stunning Kazbegi region to exploring Tbilisi’s charming old town, all without breaking the bank.
With local delicacies for just a few dollars, affordable local wine, cheap guesthouses and wallet-friendly transport, Georgia lets you experience the essence of European charm at a fraction of the usual cost.
Cuba
Daily Budget Required: $50
Why You Need To Go: Cuba is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in the Caribbean, with beautiful beaches, colourful cities, and delicious local food. Whether you're exploring Havana's historic streets or snoozing on white-sand beaches, your Canadian dollar will stretch pretty far.
Local guesthouses offer affordable stays, while delicious snacks can cost just a few dollars. With cheap transportation and plenty of free or low-cost attractions too, Cuba is a tropical escape that doesn't actually require a favourable exchange rate.
Colombia
Daily Budget Required: $56
Why You Need To Go: Whether you're wandering the vibrant streets of Cartagena, paragliding over Medellín, or exploring the lush hills of Salento, your Canadian dollars will go a long way in Colombia – regardless of the fluctuating exchange rate.
Fresh snacks cost just a few bucks, public transit is cheap, and budget stays are available everywhere. With stunning beaches, lively cities, and breathtaking nature, Colombia lets you experience the best of South America without spending a fortune.
Sri Lanka
Daily Budget Required: $61
Why You Need To Go: If you're after tropical beaches, dramatic train rides, and wild safaris without a sky-high price tag, Sri Lanka is calling your name. This island paradise has everything — golden coastlines, ancient temples, lush tea plantations, and some of the best food you'll ever eat.
You can ride the iconic scenic train to Ella for just a few bucks, feast on tasty cuisine for even less, and chill in beach towns where budget stays are easy to find.
Guatemala
Daily Budget Required: $62
Why You Need To Go: With volcano hikes, colourful colonial towns, ancient Mayan ruins, and stunning lakes, Guatemala is a dream come true for travellers on a budget.
You can wander the cobblestone streets of Antigua, take a boat across the breathtaking Lake Atitlán, or explore the Tikal ruins without needing a favourable exchange rate on your loonies. With cheap street food and bucket-list-worthy budget stays everywhere, Guatemala proves that you don't need to spend big to adventure big.
Bolivia
Daily Budget Required: $66
Why You Need To Go: Bolivia is one of South America's most affordable destinations, offering jaw-dropping landscapes and big adventures at wallet-friendly prices. From the otherworldly Uyuni Salt Flats to the colourful markets of La Paz, every corner of this country feels like a dream come true.
Street food is affordable, and, according to HelloSafe, hostels or guesthouses won't set you back much more than $50 a night.
Albania
Daily Budget Required: $102
Why You Need To Go: Those in the know describe Albania as Europe's best-kept secret, with stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and charming towns — all at a fraction of the cost of its neighbours.
Whether you're exploring the Ottoman-era streets of Gjirokastër, hiking in the Albanian Alps, or sunbathing along the Riviera, you won't need to spend much. Fresh seafood dinners cost just a few dollars, local buses are super cheap, and budget-friendly stays are everywhere.
Whether you fancy the charming, cobblestone streets of Europe, the sun-soaked shores of the Caribbean, or somewhere else altogether, these budget-friendly destinations prove that you don't need a strong Canadian dollar to have an unforgettable trip.
Wherever you go to spend your dollars, safe travels!
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
