A Backpacker’s Guide to Traveling Across Laos on a Budget

Nathifa Shadid
2 days ago
3 min read

Laos is one of the most underestimated gems in Southeast Asia. It provides the traveler with breathtaking waterfalls, ancient temples, lush green mountains and a laid back feeling that has not been spoilt by mass tourism. Backpackers are in heaven in Laos; it is cheap, friendly and has adventure everywhere. Whether you are heading to Laos on a solo trip or a cheap Laos tour packages, here are some ways you can tour the country without breaking the bank and still have a wonderful experience of its magic.

🛏 Accommodation: Staying Cheap and Comfortable

Hostels and Guesthouses: Laos boasts a good variety of cheap hostels in Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Vang Vieng. Dorm beds are as cheap as 5-8 dollars each night
Family-Run Guesthouses: Most locals open their homes to the tourists. Not only does it save money, but it also helps to have a cultural exchange.
Stays in Villages: Staying in villages will give you the real taste of Laos and this option is cheap.
Tip: Skip apps and book directly when possible since locals in person are more likely to offer a better price.

🍜 Food: Eating Like a Local

Street Food: A bowl of noodle soup or sticky rice with grilled meat can cost less than $2. Street vendors are everywhere, and food is fresh, cheap, and delicious.
Night Markets: Luang Prabang’s night market is famous for its vegetarian buffets where you can fill a plate for just $1–2.
Local Restaurants: Avoid tourist restaurants. Local restaurants with local foods are much cheaper and offer real Laotian food.

Transport: How to get around cheaply

Buses & Minivans: This is the cheapest transportation mode to move between cities. They are not as fast as flights but very cheap.
Tuk-Tuks: Suitable when you have a short distance. Always bargain the price before getting into it.
Rent a Bicycle or Motorbike: In towns like Vang Vieng, renting a bicycle ($2/day) or motorbike ($7–10/day) is the best way to explore.
Walking: Many attractions are close by in cities like Luang Prabang, so you can explore on foot for free.

🌄 Top Budget-Friendly Experiences in Laos

Kuang Si Waterfalls (Luang Prabang): It is just a small fee and a ride in a tuk-tuk, but the views are worth it.
Mount Phousi Hike: This is a really gorgeous sunset view over Luang Prabang at a very cheap price.
Plain of Jars (Phonsavan): An interesting archeological site that can be visited even on a backpackers budget.
Blue Lagoon (Vang Vieng): A cool spot to swim, tube or hang with other travellers.
Temples of Vientiane: The cost of visiting temples in Vientiane is low, and you will be able to see the spiritual side of Laos without spending a fortune.

🎒 Backpacker Travel Tips

To avoid buying bottled water, carry a reusable water bottle.
Move slowly- traveling faster will cost more.
Learn the basics of the Lao language; the locals will be impressed by the effort and may offer improved prices.
Get to know the cities by joining free walking tours when available.
Go in a group to split the expenses (transport, guides etc.).

💵 Budget Breakdown (Per Day on average)

Accommodation: $5–10
Food: $5–7
Transport: $5–8
Sights/Activities: 5-10
Around: Total of about 20-30 USD/day can make your Laos visit a satisfying one.

Well, why Backpack Laos?

Laos is not as commercialized as its neighbors and this makes it an ideal travel destination of people who want to explore the country minus the crowds. You can trek through the tropical jungles, swim in the clear blue lagoons, meditate in Buddhist temples or just sit by the Mekong River and all this without breaking the bank.

Conclusion:

Backpacking in Laos is about simple life, culture and slow travel. If you have a limited budget, or simply want to get off the well-worn tourist trail, there is a lot to see and do in this country without the need to spend a lot of money on luxuries. With cheap street food, breathtaking sceneries and hospitable people, Laos shows that amazing experiences do not require a large amount of money. But in case you are arranging your travel plans out of the Middle East, Laos visa from Oman can make your trip even easier.