Southeast Asia Backpacking Guide

Southeast Asia is home to some of the world’s most amazing places most travelers never heard of. From the Bukal Island, El Nido in the Philippines to the Chicken Island off the coast of Ao Nang, you’ll find cultural diversity, perfect weather, scenery, and a thriving backpacker scene. I know picking your next backpacking destination in Southeast Asia can be a daunting task. That is why I put together a Southeast Asia backpacking guide with suggested daily budgets, packing list, and budget savvy tips.

Backpacking Southeast Asia is as popular as ever and as soon as you set foot on the continent you quickly realize why. Pretty much any backpacking trip to Southeast Asia is a whirlwind of events and days. So if you dream of experiencing once-in-a-lifetime adventures, backpacking trip around Southeast Asia is something you should definitely consider.

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It has long been known that backpacking Southeast Asia is one of the most culturally rewarding experiences any traveler can have. Folks from all around the world come here to swim in dazzling clear waters, enjoy spectacular sunrises, and indulge in mouthwatering food. It doesn’t matter whether you are a first-time backpacker, a thrill seeker, photographer or a tech-savvy traveler, Southeast Asia has something for everyone.

I’m writing this guide sitting in the chair, watching over the emerald green rice terraces of Bali, trying to adjust to a new circadian rhythm. I’ve spent over two years backpacking around Southeast Asia over the last ten years. So I can tell you for sure, there are plenty of secluded corners, as well as busy and fairly modern cities. Just make sure you know what you need!

Best Time to Visit Southeast Asia

Getting Around Southeast Asia

Backpacking through Southeast Asia can be both confusing and easy. It really depends on the country you’re visiting. Some countries like Vietnam, Laos or Thailand are incredibly affordable compared to Japan and Hong Kong. At the same time, some remote places may have fairly limited public transport. In spite of this, nearly all countries in Southeast Asia have a lot of transportation options for backpackers.

Generally speaking, backpacking in Southeast Asia is very cheap compared to traveling in other parts of the world. This guide will give a breakdown of the highlights and costs of each country in Southeast Asia so you can be armed with the right information in order to have a truly awesome experience on a budget.

Buses

Here you’ll find both private and state-owned bus operators. Often you don’t need to book your ticket beforehand. Just show up at the bus station and get one before the ride. But since you never know how many seats left it’s wise to use online services.

I use 12Go Asia just to be sure I get the bus. It also allows you to book trains and ferries and their prices are often lower than tour companies have. I think you’ll agree with me when I say, getting a ticket in advance is better than turning up at a bus terminal in the hope that there will still be seats left!

When it comes to riding a bus in Southeast Asia, I’d recommend finding more modern and safer buses where possible. You’ll meet plenty of other backpackers on these buses since it’s certainly a more comfortable and safer way of traveling around Southeast Asia than slow local buses.

Flights in Southeast Asia

Flying is one of the best ways to travel between countries (and within them) in Southeast Asia when you’re short on time. Yes, it’s often more expensive than buses and ferries. But low-cost carriers like AirAsia, JetStar and Nok Air may have reasonable prices. Especially when you need to get from A to B quickly.

Do your research, however. While many budget airlines fly from smaller airports and charge fees for any additional service, it can often be cheaper to fly with traditional air carriers. It totally depends on where you go and your travel style.

Taxis, tuk-tuks, and Scooters

Traveling short distances in Southeast Asia will leave you with so many options you will be spoilt for choice.

Tuk-tuks (small shared taxis) that scurry through heavy traffic and ready to get you virtually everywhere. Using tuk-tuks is a bit more of a gamble. Many drivers speak a little English, so you have to use sign language. Tuk-tuk drivers almost never use a meter. They often charge twice the legitimate fare for foreigners but then will negotiate back to a more normal price. Ask and negotiate the price before even getting in the tuk-tuk.

Taxis are plentiful in Southeast Asia and much cheaper than their counterparts in the West.

Renting a scooter is a particularly inexpensive way to get around Southeast Asia. It’s also a great way to see so much, reach off-the-beaten path places and have complete control over your journey.

However the road conditions often leave something to be desired. Plus taking scooters across borders adds a complications and is sometimes not possible. I’d only recommend hiring scooters for traveling between cities. Traveling long distances can be extremely stressful and require too much effort!

Read More: How To Plan a Backpacking Trip

One of my best experiences in Southeast Asia was renting a scooter in Thailand and riding all the way from Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao and back. This was an incredible way to see the country. I got to see some really remote corners, stopping whenever and wherever I wanted. While it’s a fun way to explore the place you should always wear a helmet, get used to driving on the other side of the road (when in Thailand) and have proper travel insurance.

In short, driving in major cities can be a nightmare. However, if you’re into exploring little villages and mingling with locals outside hectic Asian cities, hire a two-wheeled transport and feel like a real local!

Trains in Southeast Asia

Train services in Southeast Asia vary greatly in quality depending on the country you are visiting and the train ticket class. Some countries, such as Laos and Cambodia, have quite limited rail travel options. Other countries, like Vietnam and Thailand, feature extensive rail networks, different classes of trains, with the night-trains require a reservation at least a few days in advance.

Trains can be more expensive than buses, and often slower. You can pay just a few dollars for a hard seat in a crowded, third-class carriage, or you can pay around $85 for cushy sleeping berths on an overnight train. Tickets are available at local railway stations, or you can always get one from 12Go website.

Popular overnight trains run from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok to Chiang Mai, and Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. They are all quite comfortable. There is usually a rail attendant to help passengers but the food is often not as good as similar products you can get on the ground. If you’re taking an overnight train ride it’s wise to bring your own meal.

Ferries in Southeast Asia

When it comes to island hopping in Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, ferries are right here to help. Boat and ferry travel is usually pretty slow but much more scenic and rewarding personal experience! For me taking a ferry is the most fun way to get around Southeast Asia if you want to see the region from a different perspective.

Of course, traveling by boat in Southeast Asia isn’t always as pleasant as in Europe. Prices heavily depend on the country you’re traveling in. I’ve seen quite cramped and uncomfortable ferries, especially in very touristy or very local spots. Despite this fact, ferries are often the only way to reach your destination. I’ve had some great experiences traveling by ferry in Southeast Asia, being able to reach some remote islands and soak up the coastal views of Thailand and Bali.

Accommodation in Southeast Asia. Where to Stay

Southeast Asia is a paradise for backpackers from all around the world. So you can expect a crazy selection of hostels for every price range, style of traveller, and destination. Roughly, a solo traveler can sleep comfortably for $10-20 USD per night in most locations. But the range is wide and can go as low as $5 USD a night in some rustic hostels. More upscale hotels, of course, offer plenty of options.

If you don’t know where to stay in Southeast Asia, determine your budget, decide what accommodation type you want for your travels, then read some of my articles.

When choosing online booking site, Agoda is one of my favorite tools for finding hostels in Southeast Asia, usually at a last minute or other discount deal. I also use Booking.com regularly as their app allows to find the nearest option really quickly. Airbnb has also improved their listings in Southeast Asia in recent years. If you plan to stay in a place for more than a week, it might be worth finding your own apartment. Use Airbnb discount code to get $35 off your first Airbnb rental.

While it can quite difficult to choose the best hostels in Southeast Asia, I narrowed down the list of possible options.

Laos

Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
Real Backpackers (Vang Vieng)
Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)

Thailand

Green House Hostel (Bangkok)
Nappark Hostel (Bangkok)
Lub D Silom (Bangkok)
Julie Guesthouse (Chiang Mai)
Sang Chan Hostel (Ko Lipe)
Green Leaf (Phuket)
Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)

Cambodia

The Siem Reap Hostel (Siem Reap)
Monkey Republic Kampot

Vietnam

Budget Hostel Ngoc Thach (Ho Chi Minh City)
Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)

Food and Eating Out in Southeast Asia

I avoid eating on the plane when I’m heading to Southeast Asia. Why? Not only it helps me to beat jet lag, it’s because I WANT to be hungry. With all these tempting smells and the sight of the omnipresent street vendors, pretty much any country in Southeast Asia has its own specialities.

Thailand. This country has a way of keeping me constantly on the prowl for my next dish. Even if I have just filled my belly! I rarely look indoors in Bangkok though. Because with so many masterful chefs selling made-to-order food at every turn you don’t need a restaurant. The only exception is It’s Good Kitchen in Chiang Mai. A small budget eatery caters to hungry backpackers offering simple and authentic Thai dishes. Looking for delicious pad thai? They’ve got you covered!

Laos. Although it’s a God-send when you’ve been out drinking all night, the best laap (Larb) cannot be found in Vientiane. Made up of minced pork or chicken almost all small open-air cafés in Luang Prabang sell this traditional Laotian dish. However, I recommend heading to the city center to find the best laap in Coconut Garden. Stroll the Sisavanvong Road for some of the most delicious smoothies!

What Is The Best Time to Visit Thailand

Vietnam. The country is a top foodie destination for many who take a Southeast Asia trip. Upon arriving in Hanoi most backpackers first experience of authentic Vietnamese cuisine is banh mi sandwich. A fusion-food influenced by French colonialism, this Vietnamese sandwich combines a French style baguette with a sticky Vietnamese sauce. Head over to Pateta Banhmi if you’re looking to the vegan option.

Cambodia. No trip to Cambodia would be complete without trying amok. This Khmer dish is absolutely delicious. It is traditionally served with fish, but you can also find its vegetarian options too. Eleven One Kitchen is my pick for a restaurant to get amok in Phnom Penh. They offer a little bit slow but decent service. The place has got an outdoor atmosphere and, of course, delicious fish amok.

The Perfect 2-Week Itinerary For Backpacking Southeast Asia

Let me make one thing clear. There are way too many interesting things to do and amazing places to visit in Southeast Asia in just one backpacking trip. And I mean that. Therefore, it’s nearly impossible to cram everything Southeast Asia has to offer in just two weeks (average 15 days of vacation). But if you only have two weeks of vacation to travel around the region, it’s still possible to see the famous landmarks, scratch the surface and have a great time.

I’ve included Thailand island hopping in this Southeast Asia backpacking guide for everyone looking for the quintessential backpacking experience. This itinerary is great for first-timers, backpackers and travellers on a tight budget. I’ve also included some helpful routes to suit all schedules. You can easily combine each and any of the islands with another in accordance with your preferences, interests and backpacking desires.

In this Southeast Asia backpacking guide, I’ll be focusing on Thailand island hopping. Although I’ve been to Myanmar, Yangon, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia too, I’ll create separate posts for these countries, so I’m not including them here. Let’s get started!

Thailand Backpacking Route: Island Hopping Itinerary

Thailand is home to many lush green islands. There are hundreds of islands both in the Andaman Sea and in the Gulf of Thailand. If you’re wondering “which Thai island should I visit” and want to spend two weeks in Southeast Asia exploring laid-back islands, relaxing on the beach and having the occasional party, then this Thai island hopping itinerary is the one for you.

Koh Phangan: 3 Days

After checking out of YEEHAA Hostel in Bangkok I took the bus down to Surat Thani. And then caught a ferry to Koh Phangan. If you start island hopping from Phuket you can either fly to Koh Samui and then reach Koh Phangan by ferry. Or you can hop on a bus to Surat Thani and then catch a ferry from there.

Koh Phangan is literally notorious for its party scene. Full moon, half moon, and jungle parties attract hundreds of thousands of backpackers each year. But Koh Phangan has much to offer in terms of scenic beaches, stunning bays, and scuba diving. I also hired a scooter to explore the more secluded getaways around the island like Bottle Beach and Thong Yai Pan Nai beach on the east coast.

Accommodation suggestion: Santhiya Koh Phangan (luxury), Cocohut Village Beach Resort (mid-range), Bottle Beach 1 Resort, Shirelea Backpackers Resort, Slumber Party (budget)

Koh Tao: 3 Days

After 3 days on Koh Phangan catch a boat across to Koh Tao. This is one of my favorite islands in Thailand due to its pretty awesome vibes. Don’t miss out on visiting Nang Yuan and John Suwan viewpoints. These two offer the most spectacular views of Koh Tao.

If scuba diving isn’t your thing and you’re not taking advantage of the cheapest scuba diving courses, there’s plenty of great stuff to keep you busy for three days. Get your Koh Phangan Pub Crawl shirt, rent a scooter to explore hidden bays, and end your days with a cocktail bucket in your hand enjoying the mind-blowing sunset at Sairee Beach.

Accommodation suggestion: The Place Koh Tao, Bamboo Huts (luxury), Sairee Cottage Resort (mid-range), Sleep Inn Hostel, Bed and Ink Hostel Koh Tao, Summer Guesthouse & Hostel (budget).

Koh Lanta: 4 Days

You’ll need to take a bus and ferry to get from Koh Tao to Koh Lanta. This is the cheapest way to hop to the west coast of Thailand so far.

The thing you should know when backpacking in Koh Lanta is that it’s a very backpacker-friendly island. In fact, many backpackers I’ve met in Thailand have talked about Koh Lanta as being one of the cheapest beach destinations in Thailand. I totally agree with that. Koh Lanta caters to all budgets offering plenty of places to eat and things to do.

Koh Lanta is more about chilling out and relaxing. Sure thing, it has plenty of options to party, but my pick would be to spend the 4 days in peace and to go to completely unwind. Rent a motorbike to find your perfect spot on the sand to kick back with a notebook or iPad. I’d suggest spending four days here watching spectacular sunsets, sipping a cocktail before you catch a boat to Koh Lipe.

Accommodation suggestion: Layana Resort & Spa, Pimalai Resort & Spa (luxury), Long Beach Chalet (mid-range), Journey Hostel, Hey Beach Hostel, Hub of Joys (budget).

Koh Lipe: 4 Days

Koh Lipe will be the last stop on this itinerary before heading back up north to Bangkok. Hop on a ferry from Koh Lanta to reach the southernmost Thailand island of Koh Lipe. This tiny island can get quite busy high season but still not as busy as its counterparts in the northern regions.

The Perfect Two-Week Itinerary in Thailand

You probably won’t love Koh Lipe if partying is your thing. Only a few bars stay open here after 11 p.m. and all of them close by 1 am or earlier. If you still want to explore Koh Lipe party scene check Corner Bar & Rainforest which are on Walking Street, Reggae Bar on Pattaya Beach, and Boom Boom Bar on Sunset Beach.

The reason why you should actually visit Koh Lipe is its unspoiled nature.

After strolling the Walking Street and three major beaches in Koh Lipe, I’d recommend taking day trips to the surrounding uninhabited islands. This is the best way to explore the Tarutao National Marine Park. An abundance of corals and marine animals made Koh Lipe a hotspot for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can find shops selling and renting out snorkel equipment throughout the island. Get the most out of your snorkeling by hiring a longtail boat that will get you to Koh Yang, Koh Rawi, and Koh Adang islands.

Accommodation suggestion: Serendipity Beach Resort, Mali Resort Pattaya Beach (luxury), Phuritra Resort, Castaway Resort, Zanom Sunrise Beach Resort (mid-range), Shanti Hostel, Lipe – Bloom Cafe and Hostel, Cozy Cove Resort (budget).