The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide: Safest & Most Affordable Countries in 2024
(For adventurers who want security, adventure, and budget-friendly experiences)
Why Travel Solo?
Solo travel builds confidence, fosters self-discovery, and lets you explore at your own pace. But safety and affordability are key concerns. This guide highlights countries that are:
✔️ Low crime rates (especially for solo travelers)
✔️ Budget-friendly (hostels, transport, food)
✔️ Easy to navigate (English-friendly or good infrastructure)
🏆 Top 10 Safest & Cheapest Countries for Solo Travelers
1. Portugal 🇵🇹
- Why? Europe’s safest country (Global Peace Index 2023), stunning coastlines, and low costs outside Lisbon.
- Budget: $40–$60/day (hostels from $15, meals $8).
- Solo Perks: Friendly locals, great public transport, and digital nomad community.
- Must-See: Porto, Algarve cliffs, Sintra’s castles.
2. Taiwan 🇹🇼
- Why? Extremely safe (even at night), efficient transport, and delicious street food.
- Budget: $35–$50/day (night markets meals for $3).
- Solo Perks: Easy metro systems, free Wi-Fi everywhere.
- Must-See: Taipei 101, Taroko Gorge, Jiufen.
3. Slovenia 🇸🇮
- Why? Europe’s hidden gem—low crime, green landscapes, and affordable.
- Budget: $45–$65/day (Lake Bled hostels from $20).
- Solo Perks: Small size = easy to explore, English widely spoken.
- Must-See: Ljubljana, Postojna Cave, Triglav National Park.
4. Vietnam 🇻🇳
- Why? Backpacker paradise—cheap, vibrant, and very solo-friendly.
- Budget: $25–$40/day (pho for $1, hostels $5).
- Solo Perks: Overnight buses save on accommodation, lots of fellow travelers.
- Must-See: Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Sapa rice terraces.
5. Costa Rica 🇨🇷
- Why? Safest in Central America, eco-adventures, and “Pura Vida” vibes.
- Budget: $50–$70/day (cheap local buses, $10 dorm beds).
- Solo Perks: Surf towns (Santa Teresa) and wildlife (Manuel Antonio).
- Must-See: Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest.
6. Georgia 🇬🇪
- Why? Visa-free for most, ultra-cheap, and incredibly safe.
- Budget: $30–$50/day (private rooms from $15, wine $2).
- Solo Perks: Stunning Caucasus hikes, Tbilisi’s artsy scene.
- Must-See: Kazbegi, Batumi, Svaneti towers.
7. Malaysia 🇲🇾
- Why? Modern infrastructure, low crime, and diverse culture.
- Budget: $35–$55/day (5-star hostels $10, food $2).
- Solo Perks: Kuala Lumpur’s expat scene, Penang’s street art.
- Must-See: Cameron Highlands, Langkawi, Borneo rainforests.
8. Chile 🇨🇱
- Why? Safest in South America, epic nature, and stable economy.
- Budget: $50–$70/day (long-distance buses are cheap).
- Solo Perks: Patagonia hikes, Atacama Desert stargazing.
- Must-See: Torres del Paine, Valparaíso, Easter Island.
9. Japan (Outside Tokyo) 🇯🇵
- Why? Extremely safe, clean, and surprisingly affordable in rural areas.
- Budget: $50–$80/day (capsule hotels $25, ramen $7).
- Solo Perks: Efficient trains, onsens, and polite locals.
- Must-See: Kyoto, Osaka, Hokkaido’s nature.
10. Albania 🇦🇱
- Why? Europe’s cheapest beach destination, low crime, and stunning hikes.
- Budget: $30–$50/day (hostels $10, seafood feasts $8).
- Solo Perks: Riviera beaches, ancient ruins (Butrint).
- Must-See: Berat, Ksamil, Theth National Park.
💰 Budget Breakdown for Solo Travelers
| Country | Daily Cost (USD) | Hostel Price | Meal Price | Safety Rating (1-10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vietnam | $25–$40 | $5–$10 | $1–$3 | 8.5 |
| Georgia | $30–$50 | $10–$20 | $2–$5 | 9.0 |
| Portugal | $40–$60 | $15–$25 | $8–$12 | 9.5 |
| Malaysia | $35–$55 | $10–$15 | $2–$5 | 8.5 |
| Albania | $30–$50 | $10–$20 | $5–$10 | 8.0 |
🚨 Solo Travel Safety Tips
✔️ Stay in hostels (meet other travelers, get local tips).
✔️ Use common sense (avoid dark alleys, don’t flash valuables).
✔️ Get a local SIM (Google Maps, Uber, emergency contacts).
✔️ Learn basic phrases (“Hello,” “Thank you,” “Help”).
✔️ Trust your gut—if something feels off, leave.
🌍 Final Verdict: Where Should You Go?
- Cheapest? Vietnam or Georgia.
- Safest? Portugal or Japan.
- Best for Nature? Costa Rica or Chile.
- Easiest for First-Timers? Taiwan or Slovenia.
Pack light, stay curious, and embrace the freedom of solo travel! ✈️