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Asia Travel

Wondering where to begin planning your Asia travel? Taking a big trip to the other side of the planet can seem daunting -- especially for the first-timer -- but it doesn't have to be! This step-by-step guide will take you from the U.S. to Asia with ease so that you can focus on the most important aspect of travel planning: the fun!

Traveling to Asia is as exciting as it sounds; Asia is the largest and most diverse continent on Earth, so you'll get more than your money's worth of culture, beauty, history, and adventure.

With a long to-do list, this Asia travel guide will help you to take care of items in the right order, so that you can be ready for the big departure day.

First, read about 10 newbie mistakes to avoid when you begin your travels!

Apply for a Passport

Long before you start worrying over what to pack or where to go, you should start the most time-consuming processes first. Asia travel is completely impossible without a passport, and as a good world citizen you should be proud to have one anyway!

The easiest way to apply for a U.S. passport is to do so at your main post office. Passport photos have strict guidelines; plan to have one taken at the post office or by a professional rather than risk having your application rejected.

Before heading to the post office, go to the official U.S. passport site to print your application and to see requirements. You will need an official birth certificate that lists both of your parent's full names. A valid driver's license is a big help for proving your citizenship.

People that have held passports before may be able to apply by mail. If you are leaving in less than two weeks, you can expedite the process by going in person to one of the U.S. passport agencies dotted around the country.

Losing or damaging your passport is a major taboo; treat it as a sacred object when it arrives!

Visit a Travel Clinic

Perhaps even more time consuming than applying for a passport, you will want some basic vaccinations for your Asia travel. Some vaccinations such as those for hepatitis require a series of shots spread across months to complete immunity. If short on time, you can get the first two injections before your trip, then get the third booster after you return home. Luckily, tetanus vaccinations are good for 10 years and the hepatitis vaccinations are considered to be good for at least 20 years, maybe life.

You may not need the full gamut of shots for Asia if you are only planning a short visit, or intend to stick around only tourist areas. Keep good records of your vaccinations to avoid overpaying for duplicates later; remembering what shots you did or did not receive 10 years later is not easy!

Ask your travel doctor about the following vaccinations; all are just as useful at home as they are abroad:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Measles (you probably received this one as a child, but check to be sure)
• Tetanus / Diphtheria (often combined in one injection)
• Typhoid (available in capsules / necessary only outside of large tourist areas)

Vaccinations for rabies and Japanese encephalitis are only necessary in special circumstances. Yellow fever is not a problem in Asia.

Read more about getting travel vaccinations for travel to Asia.

The CDC travel website has the most up-to-date information for Asia travel vaccinations.

Apply for Travel Visas

Perhaps one of the most bewildering and confusing aspects of Asia travel, applying for visas stumps a lot of first-time travelers.

A travel visa is a stamp or sticker placed in your passport which allows access into a new country. Some are free, some have an application fee, some can be obtained in the airport at your destination, and some must be obtained before you get to a country! What's worse, visa requirements for different countries are always changing, depending on the whim of bureaucrats.

You will either need to visit a country's embassy to apply for a visa before you leave home, or mail your passport to them. If you mail your passport, don't skimp on the postage! Use certified mail with tracking and delivery confirmation; mail your passport directly from the post office rather than dropping it into a mailbox.

Countries such as China, Vietnam, Myanmar, India, and a few others require that you arrive with a visa already in your passport; otherwise, you could be denied entry and put back on a plane! Countries such as Thailand allow exemptions if you just show up, however, you can get up to 60 days if you apply in advance before you arrive.

When researching visas, get the latest requirements directly from the consulate website rather than trusting other information sources that may or may not be up to date with new requirements.

Note: Many countries that claim to have an "onward ticket" requirement rarely actually enforce it. Travelers commonly fly into countries such as Thailand, then travel overland by bus or train to neighboring countries. Dressing nicely, explaining your travel plans, or showing adequate proof of funds is often enough to avoid the onward ticket requirement.

• Read all about how to get a visa  for the countries that require one.

Book a Flight to Asia

Ask every passenger on a plane what they paid for their airfare and you'll probably receive a different answer from each one! Getting a good price on a ticket to Asia is akin to playing the stock market lately: more a dark art than a science, and a lot of luck is required.

Purchasing your ticket too far in advance isn't always the best way to ensure a good price. Try to book your ticket 30 -- 60 days before your trip; you'll save money by being more flexible with your departure date and airports.

Some quick tips for booking your flight:

• Asia is a long flight away -- sign up for a mileage reward program to take advantage.
• Leave from a major hub city; the best deals to Asia are often Asian-based airlines flying to and from the west coast of the U.S.
• Decline additional travel insurance, your regular travel insurance will probably have coverage.

Learn some more secrets for booking a cheap flight to Asia .

Get Travel Insurance for Asia

Travel insurance may seem like just another expense added to a long list of Asia travel expenditures, however, once you take a hair-raising tuk-tuk ride through Bangkok at rush hour, you'll realize that the peace of mind was worth the price!

Fortunately, travel insurance is far less expensive than regular health insurance. Follow these tips before choosing a suitable policy:

• Check your renter's or home owner's insurance to see if they will cover valuables such as camera and laptop while you are abroad.
• Make copies of receipts and record models/serial numbers for expensive electronics that you plan to take to Asia.
• Choose a travel insurance policy that offers emergency evacuation back to the U.S.
• Realize that many travel insurance policies may require an additional "rider" to cover you during adventure sports such as scuba diving. Driving motorbikes is almost never covered.
• Travel Guard (Compare Prices) is the leading travel insurer in the U.S.

Read more about why budget travel insurance is a good idea and how to choose the right policy.

Plan Your Asia Travel

Now that all the prerequisites for Asia travel are done, time for the fun part: planning your trip!

The most common mistake that a first-time traveler to Asia makes is trying to see too much in too short of a time. With such interesting cities, beaches, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Asia, we are all guilty!

Keep in mind that things move a little slower in developing countries than they do at home; transportation may or may not go on schedule. Arriving in Asia with an aggressive itinerary is a sure recipe for stress.

Here are some tips for planning your Asia travel:

• Check the Weather: Many parts of Asia have distinct wet and dry seasons. An island is no fun when monsoon rains keep you indoors most of the time! Research monsoon season dates for your destinations, however, keep in mind that the world's weather has changed and isn't as predictable as it once was. Read more about the weather in Southeast Asia .
• Check Festival Dates: Big holidays and events such as Ramadan or Chinese New Year will certainly affect your trip to Asia. Accommodation prices during large holidays go up and transportation may be limited. Arrive early if you wish to enjoy the festivals in Asia.
• Don't Worry About Language: While knowing how to say hello in Asia is certainly fun and useful, language differences should not be a concern when planning your trip. You will find English spoken to some degree nearly everywhere, particularly along popular routes such as the Banana Pancake Trail in Southeast Asia. Learn some of the local language will certainly enhance your trip to Asia, however, you will learn exponentially faster once you hit the ground.
• Check Festival Dates: Big holidays and events such as Ramadan or Chinese New Year will certainly affect your trip to Asia. Accommodation prices during large holidays go up and transportation may be limited. Arrive early if you wish to enjoy the festivals in Asia .

See everything that you need to plan Asia travel.

Arrive Prepared

Although so much trip preparation can seem a little overwhelming at first, remember: flexibility always outweighs extreme preparation in the long run!

Some last minute things to research and take care of before you leave home for Asia:

• You will undoubtedly be a little jet lagged your first days in Asia. Know these jet lag remedies .
• Know how to beat the top 5 travel health ailments that affect many travelers.
• Walk softly and don't support harmful practices you may or may not realize; read about responsible travel in Asia.
• Research the currency exchange for your destinations before you leave home. Learn how to access and carry money in Asia and get the current exchange rates for Asia.
• Pack light -- you'll inevitably want to take advantage of the cheap shopping in Asia. Consider bringing these essential items with you to Asia.
• Know about these common scams in Asia so that you don't become a victim as soon as you hit the ground.
• Register your trip on the U.S. State Department Travel website; the consulate will know that you are there in case of natural disaster or political turmoil.
• Contact your bank and any credit cards that you intend to carry on your trip; they need to be aware that you are traveling, otherwise they may lock your card to protect against fraud when they see strange charges in Asia come across!
• If traveling for a long time, fill your cars with gas and add fuel stabilizer to the tank.

Most importantly, enjoy your trip of a lifetime!

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Ultimate ASIA Travel Guide

Asia  holds some of the most beautiful, diverse and fascinating landscapes and cultures on the planet. It spans an enormous surface of the earth and is a part of the world that we’ve been to several times. This Asia travel guide is designed to help you navigate the different areas and plan an amazing trip.

Located to the west of  Oceania  and to the east of  Europe ,  Africa , and the  Middle East , the Asian continent is divided into five distinct regions, each one offering a completely different flare to the others.

North Asia  pretty much holds only the massive country of Russia and features the great wilds of Siberia.

Central Asia  is one of our favorite places to travel in Asia. It features 5 countries, Kazakstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, that make up the epicenter of the historical Silk Road route. The rich trade history blends with the intriguing Nomadic cultures of the steppe to offer a travel experience that’s hard to find in other places.

East Asia  showcases the traditional Asian culture that most people think of with 7 countries including Mongolia, Tibet, China, Japan, North Korea, South Korea and Taiwan.

South Asia , also known as the India Sub-Continent, is a place where seasoned travelers go for some culture shock. This region is made up of 6 countries including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Bhutan.

Southeast Asia  is so different from the rest of Asia that we’ve broken it off in an  entirely separate   Southeast Asia travel guide . This region is made up of x countries including Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia , Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei and the Philippines.

Collectively, we’ve spent nearly a full year of time traveling the vast expanses of this region. That’s a lot of time with boots on the ground. We haven’t been to every country on this continent, yet, but we hope to provide you with some insight to help plan your own trip to this fascinating part of the world.

Destinations

Asia travel: quick tips, don’t visit asia without:.

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

ASIA BUCKET LIST

See the great wall of china.

Hands down the most iconic attraction in Asia, the Great Wall of China stretches 13,171 miles, with all of its branches. Consider  walking the Great Wall of China  to see multiple sections over several days.

STAND AT THE DOOR TO HELL

The Darvaza Gas Crater is affectionately named the Door to Hell by locals and is far off the beaten path within the borders of  Turkmenistan . It was lit more than 30 years ago and still burns today. 

ESCAPE TO THE MALDIVES

Located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a nation of 1,192 islands and is an absolute paradise. You’ll find  world-class scuba diving  and idyllic beaches to set the stage for the many  things to do in the Maldives  on your visit.

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN ASIA

There is no shortage of great things to do in Asia during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary.

Each country has its own offering and unique things to check out during a visit, so be sure to look at our country guides once you decide where you’re itinerary will take you.

SEE THE TAJ MAHAL: (India)  The  Taj Mahal  is the main icon of India due to its sheer size and beauty. It’s located just outside of  Agra  and is literally part of every India tour that includes  Rajasthan  in its itinerary. Hot tip, go early to avoid huge crowds.

TOUR THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE: (India)  If you’re visiting India for the first time, chances are high that your tour will focus on exploring the sites around the  Golden Triangle of India . Aptly named because a high number of iconic sites fall within relatively close distance. You’ll start in  Delhi  and visit  Jaipur  and Agra. There are often deviations to other places such as  Udaipur ,  Jodhpur  and  Pushkar , to name a few.

EXPERIENCE VARANASI: (India)  If you seek a direct immersion into the strong religious culture of India, then you should head directly to  Varanasi . It is here, on the banks of the might Ganges River, that people are transitioned to the afterlife. Rituals are performed daily and it is also possible to take boat trips along the river. We also recommend that you wander the narrow and winding streets of the city too.

SPOT LEOPARDS IN YALA NATIONAL PARK: (Sri Lanka)  One of the best places in the world to view Leopards in the wild is Sri Lanka. I know that comes as a surprise, many people think it’s only possible in Africa,  but the viewing here is actually really good in the right seasons.  Yala National Park  likes on the southeast corner of the country and connects to several other parks and preserves so you’ll have fun spotting a multitude of other wildlife while on safari here.

TAKE AN ELEPHANT SAFARI: (Sri Lanka)  There are plenty of great  safaris in Sri Lanka , and aside from leopards, elephants are the main draw for them. While you can see them literally all over the country, the best places to view them are in the north-central province at either  Kaudulla National Park  or Minneriya National Park. The two border each other and the animals migrate between them depending on the season.

GET AWAY FROM IT ALL IN ARAGUM BAY: (Sri Lanka)  If you like off the beaten path beach towns, then you’ll want to put  Arugam Bay  on your  Sri Lanka itinerary . Not only does it tout one of the  best beaches in Sri Lanka , but it is also laid back and quiet making for a relaxed experience when compared to the more popular  Mirissa  area beaches.

DISCOVER TIBET: (China)   It won’t be easy and it won’t be cheap, but it  will  be worth it. While the  Tibet Autonomous Region  has been occupied by China since 1951 it is a place that exists uniquely separate from China in everything but political control. Traveling overland is the best way to experience this region, especially if you make the trip from Lhasa to  Mount Everest .

SEE GIANT PANDAS: (China)  One of the most unique things you can do in China is to see the Giant Pandas. They rarely exist in the wild, however, a series of wildlife sanctuaries have been set up in the Sichuan province near Chengdu. It is here that you can learn more about them and even  volunteer to help care for Pandas .

EAT YOUR WAY AROUND BEIJING: (China)  Beijing  has one of the most diverse and lively street food scenes in the world. Navigating your way through the  Beijing street food  will leave you both surprised and satisfied.

VISIT THE DMZ & NORTH KOREA BORDER: (South Korea)  There are few places in the world as tense as the demarcation line between North and  South Korea . If you find yourself in Seoul, we’d recommend that you book a  DMZ tour  to learn more about the conflict between the two countries and what it’s like to share a peninsula. For the more adventurous, you can also book a  tour to Panmunjeom  to visit the demarcation line and see North Korean soldiers.

SEE THE HIGHLIGHTS OF SEOUL: (South Korea)  Seoul was a city that completely surprised us when we visited. If there was ever a perfect blend between Western and Asian cultures, it happens in this city. From the  food scene  to the  temples  and the craziness of the Gangnam district, Seoul is worth at least a week of your time.

WITNESS KOK BORU: (Kyrgyzstan)  The first time we saw a game of  Kok Boru  we were speechless. Chances are you will be too. This national game of Kyrgyzstan is played on horseback with a dead goat acting as the ball. It’s a proud game of the Central Asian nomads and a must-see when traveling the region, especially in Kyrgyzstan.

HIKE IN THE TIAN SHAN MOUNTAINS: (Kyrgyzstan)  As the Himilayas work their way to the north and into Central Asia, they become the Tian Shan Mountains. This transition loses none of the spectacular beauty and is one of the best places to hike in Asia. Head to  Kyrgyzstan for trekking  in the spectacular Jeti Oguz Valley and the surrounding mountain routes.

SEE REGISTAN SQUARE: (Uzbekistan)  This is the most spectacular singular architecture we have seen during our Asia travels. Yes, even when compared to the Taj Mahal. Registan Square in Samarkand, Uzbekistan is a towering sight to behold. It features classic onion domes and huge archways that are decorated with bright blue tiles. It’s also a spectacular place to mingle with the locals, as the interior of the square is set up daily as a local wares market too.

WANDER THE ANCIENT STREETS OF KHIVA: (Uzbekistan)  If you like old world, then you should head straight for Khiva, Uzbekistan. This walled city was once a destination in itself along the silk road and the same mud walls that traders passed through in ancient times still stand today. The interior features some of the most beautiful architecture in the country, behind Registan, and was our favorite city in Uzbekistan.

TOUR THE WHITE MARBLE CITY OF ASHGABAT: (Turkmenistan)  Awe, strange and bizarre, the  capital of Turkmenistan , Ashgabat is constructed almost exclusively with white marble. When we asked our guide about why this was done, he simply said to us  ‘because someday, after humanity has failed and cities have fallen, someone will discover the ruins of this city and know that the city of Ashgabat was a grand city of white marble.’ 

FOODIE BUCKET LIST

The food is one of the most exciting things to enjoy when you travel to Asia. This is one of the best and  most diverse foodie regions in the world . The one constant throughout Asia is  street food , so don’t be afraid to dig in with the locals!

In South Asia, you’ll be treated to  hot curries , naan bread, and Biryanis. In Southeast Asia, you’ve Thai food, Vietnamese food, Malaysian food, and so much more to enjoy.

Chinese food is incredibly diverse, while Japanese delicacies such as  Ramen  and  Sushi  are a must-eat.

Central Asia is a built around hearty staples like potatoes and are always meat-centric. You can’t visit the region without tucking into a bowl of  Lagman , while North Asia is heavily influenced by Russian cuisine. In short, you’re never going to go hungry when you travel to Asia.

ASIA FESTIVALS

If you’re visiting Asia, you’re going to run into an event or festival at any time of year. In East Asia and Southeast Asia,  New Year  celebrations are the biggest events. In Vietnam, it’s  Tet ; in Thailand,  Songkran , and, of course, there’s  Chinese New Year .

In South Asia, there are famed events such as  Holi , and there are countless more religious and cultural celebrations.

In Central Asia, the summer months bring nomad games. This includes the  Nadaam Festival  in Mongolia,  Salburuun Fesitval  in Kyrgyzstan and every 2 year on the even years, the  World Nomad Games , to name a few.

In Muslim majority countries, you have  Eid , the end of  Ramadan . Plus, every nation has its own national or  independence day  to celebrate.

LOOKING FOR SOME TRIP INSPIRATION?

Popular regions in asia, central asia.

Central Asia includes Kazakhstan,  Kyrgyzstan ,  Uzbekistan , Tajikistan, and  Turkmenistan . It encompasses the unique and emerging travel destinations of the former Soviet Union. This is where you’ll find the Stans, but they aren’t quite as similar as you might think. Travel across Kazakhstan by train and visit the modern cities of Astana and Almaty before heading to Kyrgyzstan, where you can live and trek like a nomad in the mountains. Tajikistan is where you’ll find the Pamir Highway, one of the highest altitude  road trips  in the world. Uzbekistan is the land of ancient Silk Road cities, marvelous architecture, and tasty food. Turkmenistan is bizarre: you’ll find marble cities and the endless fires of the Gates of Hell here.

North Asia is the most under-visited part of the vast continent, but it’s perfect for adventurous travelers looking to get off the beaten path. North Asia is essentially  Russia , a vast and empty part of the world that can be difficult to travel around. You’ll need visas, patience, and some language skills. Ride the Trans-Siberian, visit the endless steppes of eastern Russia, and end up in the remote city of Vladivostok or the untouched Kamchatka Peninsula.

East Asia is a diverse and vast region consisting of Mongolia,  Tibet ,  China , Japan, North Korea,  South Korea , and Taiwan. You can spend endless weeks traveling through China, exploring vast megacities, ancient archeological sites, and incredible nature. In Tibet, see the roof of the world as you admire the Himalayan mountains and unique culture. In Korea, enjoy the modern sights of Seoul before you stare over the DMZ at the north –  you could even take a trip from China to North Korea if you dare. Japan is the land of high-speed trains, Onsen baths, and incredible food, while Taiwan is the island nation where you’ll find more traditional Chinese culture than you ever could on the mainland.

SOUTHEAST ASIA

In  Southeast Asia , you can backpack or enjoy luxury; eat cheap street food, or dine at fancy restaurants. There’s so much to see and to do in this part of Asia. Enjoy the islands of  Thailand  or  the Philippines , the food of  Malaysia  and  Singapore , the culture and history of  Myanmar  or  Vietnam , or the untouched jungles of  Borneo  or  Indonesia . Or, of course, you could eat, pray, and love in  Bali .

South Asia is a huge region and one that can often be a huge culture shock to first-time travelers. This region includes  India , Nepal, Bangladesh,  Sri Lanka , Bhutan, and the  Maldives . In Nepal, you can trek in the Himalayas, while in Bhutan, you can be immersed in a sheltered nation hidden away from the world. India needs little introduction is probably the most visited country in this region, next to Nepal, and will delight with its color and food. Sri Lanka offers beautiful beaches and highland scenery. To be honest, this is one of our favorite countries in the world. It offers beaches, culture, food, and safaris. Head to Bangladesh to get off the beaten track or the Maldives for a tropical island escape.

ASIA TRAVEL BUDGET

Travel costs vary from one region to the next. In general, for Asia travel itineraries focused in the east, you’ll need more spending money than other destinations.

Setting a budget for travel to Asia is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere in Asia on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations for travel within Asia. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

ACCOMMODATION:  Accommodation can be found for as little as a few USD per night, averaging USD 10 for  dorm rooms or budget hotels . A midrange Asia travel itinerary will need at least USD 50 per night for  private accommodation  (double this for Japan or Korea).  Luxury accommodation  can be as low as USD 100 per night in Southeast Asia or South Asia, but much more in East Asia.

FOOD:  Food is inexpensive across the entire continent. If you eat in  local restaurants  and at  street food stalls , you’ll pay between 1 USD and 5 USD per meal (even in places like Singapore!).  Restaurant meals  will be between USD 10 and USD 20 per person.

TRANSPORT: Local buses  and  trains  can cost just a few USD per ride, and  flights  from one country to the next are good value with budget airlines. Costs vary between countries, but in general, transport won’t break the bank. In Japan, save money with a rail pass.

ACTIVITIES:  Activity costs are inexpensive in South, Southeast, and Central Asia.  Diving  can be as little as USD 30 per tank, while  multi-day hiking treks  in the Himalayas will cost just USD 50 per day. In East Asia and North Asia, factor in more for your Asia travel activities.

20-100 USD PER DAY

Budget travel will vary from as low as USD 20 per day in South Asia and Southeast Asia, up to USD 100 per day in East Asia (particularly Japan). This budget will allow you to stay in dorms or basic guesthouses, eat local street food and travel via local transport with only a few paid activities and tours.

50-250 USD PER DAY

Midrange travelers will need a budget of USD 50 up to USD 250, depending on the region. This is for private rooms, a mix of restaurants and street food, and plenty of activities. Generally, the further south you head in Asia, the further your dollar will stretch and the more you can do.

100 USD + PER DAY

Luxury travelers will need upwards of USD 100 per day in South Asia, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia for a luxury Asia travel itinerary. Your money goes much further in these destinations than in East Asia, where you’ll need a budget upwards of USD 250 per day for luxury hotels and experiences.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN ASIA

Asia travel itineraries will need to factor in a range of buses, trains, boats, flights, shared taxis, tuk-tuks, and many more modes of transport.

Buses are the most common mode of transport, but trains are incredibly popular in mainland Asia. The quickest way to get around is by flying, particularly if you are including multiple countries on your bucket list when you travel to Asia.

In Japan, the Japan Rail pass will save you lots of money on transport. Depending on the region you plan to visit, your options will vary. Plan ahead and be flexible.

TOURS:  Don’t discount this style of travel for exploring some of the more difficult regions in Asia. Some of the countries, such as Turkmenistan, North Korea and Tibet, are not possible to visit unless you are being guided. Tours are a great way to travel through Central Asia, for example, because there is a lack of transportation between cities.

CRUISES:  Asia cruises are very popular and ply the waters along the entire eastern coast of China, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Southeast Asia, India and Sri Lanka. You can see A LOT of ports if you book an Asia cruise.

CAR RENTAL:  On the islands themselves, you might want to consider renting a car to get around. Most islands – aside from the larger islands in the north, such as Cuba – can be driven around in a day, and you’ll be able to stop off and explore as and when you like. Check out  Discover Rental Cars  for great deals.

FLIGHTS:  If you’re short on time and visiting places that are not easily reached by bus, flying is your best option. There are a number of regional carries throughout Asia that will serve the major cities, and popular regions, just about anywhere you go. They range from extremely cheap budget airlines in Southeast Asia to more well-known carriers like Air India.

BUS:  Bus travel is possible all across Asia, of course, dependent again on the destination, and is an affordable yet slow option for moving around. It is important to check bus schedules though and have a backup plan in case they aren’t running.

TRAINS:  If you love train travel, so some of the iconic and adventurous train trips in the world can be experienced in Asia. This includes the Trans-Siberian train route that stretches from Moscow to the far east across Siberia in Russia. India and Bangladesh both have extensive train systems to support both local and luxury train options. In China, trains will get you into the deep corners of a fascinating country.

TOP ASIA TOURS

5 stans of the silk road.

26 Days Bishkek to Ashgabat Visits: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan

EXPLORE INDIA & NEPAL

17 Days Delhi to Kathmandu Visits: Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Pokhara, Chitwan NP, Kathmandu

TIBET ADVENTURE

15 Days Beijing to Kathmandu Visits: Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, Rongbuk, Tingri & Kyirong

WHEN TO VISIT ASIA

Asia is an enormous part of the world, and the climate and weather vary dramatically from one country to the next.

Northern Asia  is characterized by severe winters: places like Siberia are some of the coldest places in the world. In summer, though, the temperatures can be roasting hot. Either time of year, however, there are few tourists in this part of Asia!

Central Asia  also experiences extremes of weather, with hot summers and cold winters. The height of summer is best avoided unless you stick to the higher altitude mountains. This is a place best visited in spring or fall.

East Asia  is a much more temperate Asia travel destination, with the traditional four seasons in Korea, Japan, and much of China. You can visit all through the year, but remember that summer is generally the peak season to travel to Asia!

South Asia  is where things begin to get more tropical, but the climate varies spectacularly. There are distinct wet and dry seasons. You should aim to travel during a region’s dry season for the best South Asia travel experience. The northern Himalayas are cold in winter, the deserts of Rajasthan are hot and dry for most of the year, and the coast of Sri Lanka sees multiple monsoons!

Southeast Asia  is tropical, too, with wet and dry seasons. Again, head here in the dry season for the best travel experience.

For more specific information, check out:

• Best Time to Visit the Maldives
• Best Time to Visit Bali
• Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

PLAN A TRIP TO SOUTHEAST ASIA!

Safety in asia.

When you travel to Asia, you’re very likely to have a safe travel experience. The region is large and diverse, but also welcoming and hospitable. As with anywhere in the world, travelers need to be aware of their belongings, as petty theft can occur anywhere.

Scams can be common in major tourist destinations, particularly in South Asia and Southeast Asia. While they are annoying, they are mostly harmless.

Importantly, travelers should be aware of the customs and culture of each country they visit. What is accepted in one region will be different in another. Try to research a region’s laws and religions before you arrive, so you don’t cause offense.

Solo female travelers may experience harassment in some parts of the region if they travel to Asia, particularly South Asia.

We’ve traveled all over Asia and had mostly positive experiences but stuff does happen, even to experienced travelers. The best advice we can give is to be educated and prepared. Have a look at our  25 Essential Safety Tips for Travel  to make sure you’re on the ball for your next trip.

ASIA TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Asia travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Asia and start planning your dream trip.

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50 Essential travel tips for first time backpackers visiting Southeast Asia

• July 27, 2023
• curious goose

This post may contain affiliate links. I will receive a small commission if you use these links.

Make sure you read these essential tips for Southeast Asia to help plan your trip.

Southeast Asia is one of the most popular destinations for backpackers. It’s easy to see why – gorgeous sandy beaches, cultural temples, delicious food and bustling cities makes for an attractive mix. It’s also a safe and cheap place to travel, meaning that Southeast Asia is a great place for first time travellers getting to grips with backpacking and those on a budget.

Southeast Asia has been on my bucket list for years and in 2022, I spent 7 months travelling in Thailand , Vietnam , Cambodia, Malaysia and Indonesia. Based on my experience, I’ve put together 50 essential travel tips to help you plan your trip to Southeast Asia. These tips cover everything from what food and drink to avoid, to how to keep track of your budget while travelling and travel hacks to make life on the road easier.

These travel tips for Southeast Aisa will prepare you for a great trip and hopefully help to prevent you from getting into any tricky situations!

50 Essential travel tips for first-time backpackers visiting Southeast Asia

Practical information for travel in southeast asia, managing your budget and finances when travelling in southeast asia, top tips for getting around in southeast asia, food and drink in southeast asia, local cultures and traditions in southeast asia, travel health, packing tips.

• Lastly…things to remember when travelling

Travelling takes a lot of organisation and planning. Here’s a few hacks to help you have a smoother travel experience.

1. Get yourself a sim card as soon as you land

Often the best sim card deals can be found in the arrivals hall at the airport, with a ‘tourist sim’. I’d recommend getting a sim card as soon as you arrive in the country, especially if you are taking public transport from the airport / ferry / bus terminal to your accommodation. Most likely, you will be dropped off at a location in the centre of town (or at the side of the road as I experienced several times!) and having the internet to figure out where you are is very helpful.

2. Download an offline version of google maps before you arrive at a new place

Even if you have a sim card with data, you might not always have a signal to access the internet. Make sure that you download an offline version of google maps, covering the area you are travelling to. You might need to download several if the area you are travelling to is vast. Another handy tip is to ‘pin’ key locations onto your map, such as your accommodation, attractions, bus terminals and places to eat! That way, if you can’t access the internet you’ll still be able to find your way to key services and attractions.

3. Screenshot or note down your accommodation booking confirmation and address

Don’t rely on being able to access the internet to retrieve the information of your accommodation. You’d be surprised how many travellers get off a bus in a new town and don’t know the address or even the name of the place they are staying at and can’t access their emails as they don’t have internet! Take a quick screenshot of your accommodation and travel bookings, or write the important information down in a notebook or in the notes folder on your phone.

4. Print any important documents you need to enter a country

For entering many of the countries in Southeast Asia, you’ll need a visa (and may need other supporting documents too). It always helps to have a printed copy of any important documents as well as the electronic version on your phone. This way, if your phone gets lost / stolen / runs out of battery, you’ll have a backup copy. If you are travelling between countries, your hostel or hotel might be able to print documents for you, or they can usually point you in the direction of a printing shop.

5. Be aware of scams

Travelling in Southeast Asia is an amazing experience and most of the local people you meet will be welcoming, friendly and helpful. However, you will also encounter locals who will try to take advantage of travellers. The most common scams usually involve taxi or tuk-tuk drivers, or money exchange kiosks. When travelling around in Southeast Asia, always negotiate the price and be clear on what the price covers. Only change money in authorised exchange kiosks – your accommodation should be able to help you with this.

How do you know if something is a scam? Usually you can tell if something doesn’t feel right. If you don’t feel comfortable and are unsure, just say no and move on. It also helps if you do your own research and plan beforehand. For example, if you research how much a specific A to B journey should cost in a tuk-tuk and the price you are being quoted is over double, you know they are trying it on.

6. Don’t put tissue paper down the toilet

As a general rule, putting tissue paper down the toilet is a no-no in Southeast Asia. There are some exceptions to this rule, for example in more modern, and usually more upscale resorts. However, in most places, the pipes cannot cope with the paper and they will block, which is not nice for anyone. Use the bin provided or embrace the water gun!

7. Read reviews

Whilst it’s not a good idea to get hung up on one negative review out of 10’s of positive ones, reading reviews is definitely worth doing. Whether this is for accommodation, attractions or transport. Filter the reviews to ‘Newest first’ and make sure you know what to expect before you part with your money.

8. Check the weather when planning your trip to Southeast Asia

Generally speaking, October – March is the best time to travel in Southeast Asia as this is the dry season and the weather is cooler and more manageable. However, research the individual countries you want to visit to plan which month would be best for you to travel.

9. Plan your route but allow for flexibility

Whether you are visiting one country or several countries in Southeast Asia, plan your itinerary beforehand. Having a rough plan of your route is a good idea so that you have an idea of what you would like to see within your time frame. However, don’t be rigid with your plans. Be flexible and embrace opportunities to visit places you hadn’t included in your original itinerary. Having unexpected experiences is one of the best things about travelling!

Budgeting for your trip is one of the most important things you can do, both before and during your travels. Make sure that you read these top tips to help you manage your budget and keep track of your spending when travelling.

Need help saving for your dream trip? Check out my 12 super simple tips for how to save for full time travel

10. Have a couple of good debit cards

One of the most important things you will need when travelling is a safe way to access your money. Instead of using your normal bank debit card, which may have expensive fees for use overseas, get yourself a new debit card, purely for travelling. I use a Starling Bank debit card, but I’ve also heard good things from travellers about Revolut and Monzo too. Instead of having all your money on your travelling debit card, simply ‘top it up’ when you need and keep just a small amount on the card. That way, if you lose the card, or it gets stolen, you don’t risk losing a lot of money. For this same reason, having two debit cards you can use in this way is also a great idea (just make sure you keep them in different places!).

11. Pay for large items on a credit card

When booking things like accommodation, travel (especially flights) and activities, always use a credit card. Credit cards offer a much higher protection on spending and if something goes wrong with the supplier (for example, if the service provider goes out of business), your credit card company can help you to claim your money back. I have a Halifax Clarity credit card which is great for travelling and using abroad. Shop around and find a credit card with low or zero exchange fees or charges for using it overseas.

12. Always carry some cash

When travelling in Southeast Asia, it’s a good idea to always have a bit of cash on you. If you are travelling to more remote areas, or buying something from a local shop or stall, you will need to pay for it in cash. Just be aware that many of the ATM’s in Southeast Asia charge for withdrawing money and they have a limit for how much you can withdraw, which is annoying!

(Image: Windmill Viewpoint, Phuket, Thailand)

13. Make sure you can access your bank account if you lose your phone

Most of us manage our bank accounts via an app on our phones. However, what happens if your phone is lost or stolen? Make sure that you know how to access your bank account online or over the phone.

14. Set yourself a travel budget and track your daily spend

Possibly THE most important element of travelling is budget management! It doesn’t sound exciting (and it’s not!), but it’s vital if you don’t want your trip to end abruptly because you’ve run out of money.

When planning your trip, do your research and set a daily budget. This should be based on the prices of accommodation, food, transport and activities in your destination and also what kind of experience you want to have (on the scale of budget backpacker – luxury holiday). Read my step by step guide on How to budget for full time travel and create your own Travel Budget (you can also download my FREE Travel Budget Spreadsheet Template).

Make sure you record your daily spend to keep you on track. I use the free version of @travelspendapp . Managing your budget means that if you’re careful in some places, you can splurge on more expensive trips in others, such as an overnight luxury cruise to Halong Bay in Vietnam

15. Take advantage of travel rewards programs

There are plenty of rewards programs available to savvy travellers. One of my favourite reward programs is the Booking.com genius program. The more qualified bookings you make through your Booking.com account, the more genius points you can earn, which can get you discounts and upgrades on certain hotels, transport and experiences.

Another great rewards program, if you are from the UK, is Topcashback . Simply login to your Topcashback account and make your booking with one of the travel providers via the Topcashback site to earn cash back on your purchase.

Southeast Asia is a large, diverse continent and even the individual countries within Southeast Asia are massive, so you’re going to want to travel around and explore as much of it as possible. Getting around in Southeast Asia is not always the most straightforward, so here’s some tips to help you navigate public transport.

16. Shop around for the best deal on public transport

During the 7 months I spent in Southeast Asia, I booked a lot of my bus and ferry journeys online. One of the best booking platforms for transport in Southeast Asia is 12go . Camboticket in Cambodia is also another good option. (For booking tours, Viator , Get your Guide and Klook are all great platforms). But don’t just rely on websites. Speak to your hotel or hostel and get their advice. Sometimes they can tell you about transport routes or tour companies that don’t appear on the larger comparison websites. Whatever you are booking, shop around and get a couple of prices for the best deal.

If you are travelling a longer distance, or between countries, don’t assume that travelling by plane will always be more expensive. Sometimes a flight can be cheaper, or a similar price to a long distance train, especially if you have carry-on only bags. It’s also worth taking into consideration the journey time. If a flight is only £30 more but takes 14 hours less than the bus, it may be a better option for you.

17. Travelling from A to B is not as easy as it sounds!

Travelling from A to B sounds easy (and it should be!), however travelling from A to B in Southeast Asia usually ends up being a lot more complicated than it needs to be! Don’t be surprised if you are asked to change buses several times throughout your journey as different drivers and companies take over each section of the trip. I took a journey in Thailand from Railay in Krabi to Koh Samui which took 12 hours and consisted of 1 boat, 5 buses, 1 ferry and a taxi (which was 4 more buses than expected!) Try to stay patient and go with it, it won’t make you feel any better getting stressed about it.

18. Give yourself plenty of time for transfers

As I’ve mentioned, travel in Southeast Asia is usually not a simple process. Often journeys depart later than scheduled and will take a lot longer as the drivers make random stops along the way. If you are planning a journey that has transfers with different companies (for example, a bus journey followed by a ferry), make sure that you leave plenty of time between each leg of the journey, as you are most likely going to be late!

19. Prepare for delays or things to go wrong

You can see a theme emerging here! Most journeys in Southeast Asia are late, or delayed, or there’s been a miscommunication with your booking. Try to be patient and polite with the locals. Most local people I encountered in Southeast Asia were incredibly warm and friendly and willing to help. So, be respectful and don’t be rude if things don’t go to plan, it’s all part of the travelling experience!

20. Don’t expect formal booking confirmations for public transport

If you’re the kind of person who likes to have written confirmation of everything, then prepare to get out of your comfort zone! As someone who is super organised and over-prepared, I had to learn to accept that formal booking confirmations don’t always exist in Southeast Asia when booking transport. Instead, you’ll be given a flimsy paper slip as confirmation, which at some point will be taken off you and replaced with a coloured sticker (which may later be replaced with another sticker!) They do love a sticker, especially in Thailand! Just take photos of your paper slip or sticker in case you lose it and you’ll be fine.

21. ALWAYS negotiate when ordering a tuk-tuk or taxi!

Rule no.1 when travelling in Southeast Asia – always negotiate! In some of the larger cities you can use Grab, Uber or Gojek which is great as it gives you an idea of what the cost should be. Even if you are getting a ride with a local driver, use the price on Grab/Uber/Gojek to help you negotiate. If that is not available, ask your hostel or hotel how much the prices should be so you have an idea of what is a good price and what is a bad price.

22. Get an international driving licence

If you are considering hiring a car or scooter in Southeast Asia, get yourself an International driving licence. If you are from the UK, you can pick these up in the Post Office for £5. Make sure you keep your licence and your international licence with you at all times when driving. Occasionally local police may stop you and ask to see your licence and if you don’t have it (or the correct one), they may fine you.

23. Don’t feel pressured into riding a scooter

Travelling in Southeast Asia and riding a scooter seem to go hand in hand (if you believe everything you see on Instagram, or read in some blogs). However, don’t feel pressured to ride a scooter if you don’t feel comfortable. The roads in Southeast Asia are uneven and windy and the traffic can be crazy, with people cutting you up and zig-zagging down the road. It is absolutely possible to travel in Southeast Asia without riding a scooter if you don’t want to. If you do want to ride a scooter, make sure your travel insurance covers you and always wear a helmet.

24. Have motion sickness tablets with you on travel days

Even if you don’t normally feel travel sick, you may find yourself feeling queasy. Many of the roads in Southeast Asia are quite hilly and windy and the drivers can be fast and erratic. Also, if you are on a small minibus, it is usually hot and cramped, making you feel even worse. (If you are in the north of Thailand, the Chiang Mai – Pai bus is notorious for making people feel ill). Buses aside, you will likely be taking several boats and ferries during your time travelling in Southeast Asia and some of the boat crossings can be bumpy. Make sure that you have some motion sickness tablets with you for your journey. These can be picked up cheaply from 7/11 in Thailand and also most pharmacies or shops.

25. Pack warm clothing in your day bag on travel days

If you are travelling long distances on a coach or sleeper bus, make sure you keep a warm top or hoodie with you. The buses in Southeast Asia are renowned for having the coldest air conditioning!

Sampling the food and drink in a new country is all part of the travelling experience and one of the best parts of visiting Southeast Asia is to eat the local food. Here’s a few tips to keep you safe and avoid the dreaded traveller’s belly!

26. Don’t drink the tap water

Unless you want to spend a couple of days being ill, don’t drink the tap water! Bottled water is very cheap to buy, Unfortunately, this does often mean that you will be using a lot of single-use plastic, which is a big problem in Southeast Asia. Some larger cities such as Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai in Thailand have filtered water machines where you can top up your refillable water bottle for a fraction of the cost.

27. Be careful of the fruit!

It can be hard to stay healthy when travelling and the fruit in Southeast Asia is delicious, however, just be careful where you buy it from. There’s plenty of street stalls selling pre-cut fruit. Most of it will be fine, however you don’t know how long it has been sitting there getting warm and also whether it has been washed in clean drinking water. Eating dodgy fruit can make you really sick and wipe you out for several days – believe me! Try to pick places where they cut the fruit fresh in front of you, or buy whole fruit which you can peel/cut yourself.

28. Eat the street food!

The street food scene in Southeast Asia is brilliant (plus its great for your budget too!) The street markets are a lively buzz of noise and smells, creating a great atmosphere. Make sure you go to as many street food markets as you can, it’s all part of the Southeast Asia experience! If you buy meat from a street vendor, make sure that they fry it / cook it in front of you. Eating meat that has been left out for a while is another thing that could leave you chained to the bathroom for a day or two.

29. Try local dishes

When you visit somewhere new, make sure you know what the local dishes are and try them. Ask the locals you meet what food you should eat whilst you are there. There’s often regional variations of national dishes too.

30. Don’t be put off by the interior (or lack of!) a place

Some of the best food I’ve eaten in Southeast Asia has been whilst sitting outside on a tiny plastic stool at a metal table! In my experience, the small, family-run local restaurants have the best food and even better, they are the most budget-friendly too!

31. Bring a reusable water bottle and bag

As I’ve mentioned, some of the larger cities and towns in Southeast Asia do have places where you can top up your reusable water bottle. There are also some cafes which will allow you to top up for a small charge. Reusable water bottles are also vital for taking on some of the amazing hikes Thailand has to offer. Tip – buy an insulated bottle to keep your water cool!

Take a reusable cotton tote bag too for your shopping, rather than asking for a plastic bag each time you go to the shop. This foldable tote bag is perfect as it has a zip to keep your valuables secure too.

32. Check the spice level!

Spicy food in Southeast Asia is on a different level! A ‘mild’ dish is comparable to a medium in the UK. Don’t be afraid to ask for no chilli or for a dish to not be spicy.

Experiencing a different culture and learning about the history and traditions of a place is one of the best bits about travelling. Read these four things you must do to make sure that you are respectful and get off to a great start with the locals when travelling in Southeast Asia.

33. Learn basic phrases

If you are travelling in another country, even just for a couple of weeks, it’s a great courtesy to know a couple of key phrases, such as Hello and Thank You. Even though English is widely spoken across Southeast Asia, locals love it when you try to speak a little of their own language and will be happy to teach you some new phrases.

34. Be respectful

Southeast Asian culture is very different to western culture and each country in Southeast Asia has their own traditions and cultural differences. Make sure that you know how to behave in certain situations and be respectful. For example, women should not approach, converse with or touch Monks. Women also cannot enter certain shrines or temples whilst menstruating.

Travelling to Bangkok? Make sure you visit these three temples

35. Dress appropriately

Whilst both men and women should make sure that they are respectfully dressed when entering a temple or government building, this mostly applies to women. Whether you’re exploring Ankor Wat , in Cambodia or the Grand Palace in Bangkok, women must always cover their knees and shoulders when visiting a temple.

When bathing in certain spots, it is respectful to cover up. Wearing a bikini is acceptable at most public beaches and in your hotel or hostel pool, however, if you are visiting a local bathing spot, you will notice that Southeast Asian women wear shorts and a t-shirt to bathe in. It is polite to do the same.

36. Take off your shoes

This is common practice in many places throughout Southeast Asia, but it is mostly associated with Thailand. Shoes should always be removed before entering a temple, but you will also need to remove shoes before entering other places too. If you are staying in a small guesthouse, or homestay, it is polite to leave your shoes outside. This is the same if you enter a small, local shop and even when you travel on certain boats and buses (especially the sleeper buses in Vietnam).

Prepare for your trip to Southeast Asia by making sure that your health requirements and needs are taken care of before you travel…

37. Check what vaccinations you need before you go

When planning a trip to any new country, it is important to make sure you have received all the relevant vaccinations beforehand. If you are in the UK, you can check the NHS website to see which vaccinations are recommended for the country you are visiting and which vaccinations you can get for free on the NHS.

38. Stock up on sunscreen

Suncream is not widely available in Southeast Asia, especially if you are travelling away from the main tourist holiday destinations. It is also very expensive. You will find lots of ‘sun serums’ or ‘daily lotions with spf’ – be careful with these, whilst they do offer some level of protection, they are not full sun creams and are not recommended for using while sunbathing. If you are only travelling for a short amount of time, take several bottles with you from home, if you have room.

39. Take any medication / feminine products with you

If you are travelling to some of the smaller islands, or more remote places in Southeast Asia, there is not always a large pharmacy available. So, if you need medication, make sure that you bring it with you and restock it before you run out. Feminine products can be expensive too, so if you can, bring these with you.

40. Always carry medication for ‘travellers belly’

It’s not nice to talk about but almost every traveller will experience an upset stomach at some point during their travels in Southeast Asia (no matter how careful you are). Although the best advice is to rest and let the bug ‘pass through’, that is not always possible, especially if you have a bus journey to get through. With that in mind, carrying some tablets for diarrhoea will be a lifesaver!

41. Always have a toilet roll with you on travel days!

This goes hand in hand with the above – most toilets in Southeast Asia don’t have toilet paper and there’s usually a small fee for using them, so carry some small change too.

When deciding what to pack, you first need to decide whether you prefer a backpack or a suitcase. Most travellers will opt for a backpack as it is easier to carry across sandy beaches and when you are climbing in and out of boats etc. But it really is down to personal preference. 

You will also want to make sure you have a decent day bag to keep all your valuables and travel essentials with you, and one which fits under your seat on the plane to avoid extra charges. Picking the right underseat personal item backpack is important – it will get a lot of use, so if you can, invest in a good one. 

Depending on how long you are travelling in Southeast Asia for, your packing list will vary. This is also true if you are planning a long trip and are visiting other places outside of Southeast Asia too. So, rather than include a full packing list in this post, here’s a couple of top tips to help you pack better.

42. Take a Scarf or sarong

A scarf or sarong is one of the most versatile items you can pack in your bag. It is great for covering your shoulders in a temple, laying on at the beach, throwing on over a bikini, using it as a pillow on travel days or keeping you warm on the buses! Plus it takes up virtually no space in your bag!

43. Pack layers

You definitely don’t need as many clothes as you think you do, and you will end up wearing the same things over and over! Pack light things that you can layer and roll up small in your bag. In terms of shoes, one pair of trainers, one pair of flip flops and one pair of Birkenstock or chunky walking sandals will be suitable for pretty much everything in Southeast Asia. I lived in my Birkenstocks for pretty much the whole year!

44. Leave room for new clothes!

Don’t go shopping for everything before you leave home. The clothes in Southeast Asia are so cheap and let’s face it, most of the clothes you will buy at home will most likely come from Southeast Asia anyway! If there’s anything you’ve forgotten or wished you had packed, you will more than likely be able to buy it in Southeast Asia.

45. Be savvy with your chargers

There’s nothing worse than having a bag full of cables and charging wires! A lot of devices will accept the same charger cable and this is a great way to reduce the number of wires you take. For example, my laptop wire will fit my phone and my Go pro, meaning I only need one wire for three devices. (I do also have a single USB cable that will plug into an adaptor so I can charge two things at one, but this takes up hardly any room). I’d also recommend putting your wires into a small organiser case , so they are easy to locate in your bag.

46. Embrace the packing cube!

Packing cubes are a lifesaver when it comes to packing for travelling. Even if you are sceptical about it at first, you will soon realise how handy they are. It’s a great way to separate (and easily locate!) your clothes in your bag. They also help to condense things down in your bag!

Making the decision to go travelling can be scary but it is also super exciting! Have the best time and remember that comparison is the devil!

47. Chat to others

One of the best parts of travelling is meeting other like-minded travellers. There’s a reason that Southeast Asia is one of the best places to travel solo. There’s so many great hostels and Facebook groups, where you can meet up with other people.

48. Everyone has bad days when travelling

You will have THE BEST time travelling, but there will also be some days that don’t quite go to plan and other days where you are tired or may feel homesick. The best advice I can give you is not to dwell on those days, it is completely normal and usually after a good night’s sleep and a comfy bed, you will feel much better.

49. Don’t compare your journey to others

Everyone’s travel experience is different and your trip will be unique to you. Don’t get caught up in comparing your journey to everyone else’s, just enjoy and embrace your own travel experience.

50. Have fun!

Travel is one of the best things you can do (in my totally biased opinion!). Whether you’re travelling in Southeast Asia for a few weeks or a few months, relax, go with the flow and HAVE FUN!

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 28, 2024

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur , with its glorious temples and incredible street food scene (this is the best place for Indian food outside of India) is not to be missed. The Petronas Twin Towers are a must-see, and if you don’t mind heights, you should walk across the bridge connecting the two. They stand an awesome 1,500 feet (451 meters) tall! One of my favorite day trips here in KL was to the karst landform 400 million-year-old Batu Caves and temples that house Hindu statues and paintings. For something more down to earth, the Butterfly Park in the Perdana Botanical Garden is the serene home to an incredible 5,000 butterflies, plants, ferns, and flowers and is a beautiful retreat from the bustle of the city.

Other Things to See and Do in Southeast Asia

1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.

For more information on specific cities in Southeast Asia, check out these guides:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

For more places to stay, check out our countries guides to each country: Thailand , Laos , Vietnam , Singapore , Malaysia , Cambodia , and Indonesia .

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel Dorms – $6-12 USD per night (double that in Singapore)
• Hostel private rooms – $15-30 USD per night (triple in Singapore)
• Budget hotels – $15-35 USD per night ($100 USD in Singapore)
• Airbnb private rooms – $15-30 USD per night (more in the larger/popular cities)
• Airbnb apartments – $40-80 USD per night (again, more in the larger/popular cities)
• Campsite – Camping is the same price as hostels.
• Street food – $2-5 USD
• Casual restaurants – $3-6 USD
• Western meals – $5-10 USD
• Sit-down restaurants – $10-20 USD
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – $5 USD
• Beer – $1-3 USD
• Glass of wine – $3-6 USD
• Cappuccino/latte- $2-3 USD
• Bottled water – $1 USD
• Groceries for a week – It’s cheaper to eat out in this region, so skip the groceries.

Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – $50 usd per day.

This gets you hostel dorms, street food, buses to get around, a few drinks, and mostly free (or cheap) activities like temple visits and enjoying the beach.

If you splurge on nicer meals or drink more, you’ll want $60 USD per day.

Midrange – $100 USD Per Day

This budget gets you private hotel rooms or bungalows, nicer meals out (including more Western meals), more drinks, some taxis, and generally more wiggle room. You can live pretty large on this amount!

Upscale – $200 USD Per Day

On this budget you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want!

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

How to Get Around in Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. Its’ my go-to choice. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Bus costs vary between $5-8 USD for a five-to six-hour journey. Overnight buses cost $10-15 USD, depending on distance.

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $20-27 USD for a sleeper seat. The Bangkok to Vientiane (Laos) train takes 11-13 hours and costs around $30 USD.

In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $40 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. For a soft sleeper bed with air conditioning, expect to pay around $44 USD for the journey from Hanoi to Hue. For the same bed on the train from HCMC to Nha Trang, expect to pay around $30 USD.

In Cambodia, there is a new train from Phnom Penh to Battenberg but it’s not that comfortable. There is also a train from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville. Tickets cost $5-7 USD, though departures are not very common so you’ll need to plan ahead. The journey takes about six hours.

In Indonesia, the cities of Java are well linked by train. Economy class from Jakarta to Surabaya takes 11 hours and costs about $42 USD, while an 8-hour executive class trip costs $96 USD.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Generally speaking, fares are around to $30 USD per one-way trip. Last-minute fares can cost more than $100 USD.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

This post discusses getting around Southeast Asia in-depth if you want more information.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more!  Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

How to Get Around Southeast Asia on the Cheap

Southeast Asia Itineraries: From 2 Weeks to 3 Months

9 Things to Do in Thailand

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

The 6 Best Hostels in Hanoi

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How to Plan a Trip to Southeast Asia 2025 (First-Timers' Guide)

Longing for an exotic couple's/family vacation? A 10–30-day trip to Southeast Asia will fulfill your dreams for a tropical travel experience with its sunny beaches, verdant jungles, adorable elephants, charming old towns, dynamic metropolises, diverse tasty foods, traditional floating markets, and mysterious temple complexes.

Southeast Asia consists of 11 countries. They're conveniently connected to each other by 1–3-hour flights. More than 95% of couples and families choose to visit 2–3 SE Asian countries in one trip.

The five most popular destinations for the SE Asia first-timer are Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore, and Indonesia (mainly Bali). For a deeper cultural exploration and a longer trip, Myanmar and Laos come onto the list most frequently.

Spend 5–10 minutes on the following 6 steps to get an instant overview of how to plan a worry-free trip to Southeast Asia.

• 1. Where to Go
• 2. How Many Days to Stay
• 3. The Best Times to Travel

4. Plan Your Budget

5. transportation to/within southeast asia.

• 6. Visa Requirements

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

1. Choose Where to Go

Among all our couples' and family clients' choices, the best-selling itineraries cover the Southeast Asia travel hubs of Thailand (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket / Koh Samui), Vietnam (Halong Bay, Hanoi, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh) and Cambodia (Angkor Wat). >> How to Plan a 3-Week Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour

Bali in Indonesia, known locally as 'the Island of the Gods', is one of the best choices if you love the thought of sun-soaked beaches, volcano trekking, and scenic countryside with terraced rice fields.

Singapore , a clean and modern city, is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia. It is favored by families due to its arts, fashion, food, culture, and big-name events.

Luang Prabang in Laos and Bagan in Myanmar are favored choices for couples who love charming romantic old towns, fascinatingly-designed temples, and Buddhist culture.

1) Thailand: Temples, Elephants, Beaches

Thailand is the travel hub of Southeast Asia. Within its borders are sunny beaches, ornate temples, and lush national parks and jungles. There is so much to do in Thailand, whether you want to explore and have fun with kids, or enjoy romantic moments with your significant other.

Whether traveling as a family or couple, meeting elephants in a jungle, taking a Thai cooking class , and exploring Bangkok's classic temples, amazing food, and floating markets are all must-dos.

For your choice of islands, Koh Samui is more recommended for couples due to its quiet and romantic vibe. While Phuket is more suitable for families with kids, as it's known for its abundant water sports and activities.

Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai is definitely not to be missed, where you can see the romantic scene of countless flying lanterns released into the sky.

For a special experience, you could spend an amazing evening with your spouse/partner (and kids) in Kanchanaburi's floating house or a tree house in Khao Sok National Park.

2) Vietnam: Outdoor Adventures, Scenic Wonders, Countryside Relaxation

Hanoi and Hoi An represent traditional Vietnam, Halong Bay represents scenic Vietnam, while Ho Chi Minh epitomizes modern Vietnam with many great museums.

Hanoi is a must because of the incredible, buzzing Old Quarter, displaying history at every turn.

A luxury Halong Bay cruise is recommended for both couples and families. Spend 1–2 nights boating around the numerous islands and admiring the karst formations rising from the sea.

There are many exciting activities in Halong Bay, like kayaking, swimming, and cycling. If your plan to celebrate a big event, we can help arrange a more private cruise only for you as a couple or just your family members.

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's most fashionable city, known for its amazing food, skyscrapers, and sleepless bars. It is also a must-visit for everyone with an interest in history due to its many museums!

After 2–3 hours' driving from Ho Chi Minh, you can transit from city's dynamism to the primitive simplicity of the Mekong Delta. Get to see how the local Vietnamese keep their traditional lifestyle: trading in the floating markets , making sugar in a family workshop , living in a boat house , etc.

Further reading:  Itinerary options for 2 weeks in Vietnam and Cambodia

3) Cambodia: Culture Immersion

Angkor Wat, without a doubt, is the biggest attraction in Cambodia. It is a place where children can experience the culture's charms as well as adults. It was once the capital of the Khmer kingdom — the most powerful in Southeast Asian history. There, you can walk through the ruins of once-glorious buildings and discover their history.

Further reading:

• Itinerary options for 2 weeks in Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia

4) Bali: Luxury Beach Resorts

For those who like all the fun close together, Bali is a one-stop enjoyment island with incredible beach resorts, beautiful beaches, water sports, yoga, a wild nightlife, friendly people, and enough shops to shop until you drop.

It is one of the most popular destinations in SE Asia, and once you get there you will instantly understand why.

There you can embrace your loved one(s) in a cruise under the sunset, relax at a spa surrounded by nature, cycle through the rice terraces, take cooking classes, go on a volcano sunrise trek ...

>>>Read about how to plan a trip to Thailand, Singapore and Bali

5) Singapore: Convenience, Quality, Universal Studios…

Singapore is extremely family friendly with its convenient amenities, widely-spoken English, various cuisines, Universal Studios, and big events, like the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix.

Tour recommendation : 13-Day Private Singapore and Bali Journey of Discovery

6) Laos: Slow-Paced Vibe, Buddhist Heritage

Heading somewhat off the Southeast Asia beaten track, Laos is a beautiful and tranquil nation offering UNESCO World Heritage sites, charming old towns, stunning natural scenery, tribal villages, diverse ethnic arts, adventure, outdoor activities, and amazing food.

Luang Prabang is its most popular destination as a result of the many beautiful historical sites, the unique surrounding scenery, the pure alms-giving ceremony, as well as its elephant sanctuary with well-preserved habitat.

Tour recommendation : 14-Day Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos Tour

7) Myanmar: A Romantic Way to See Temple Relics

There's nothing more romantic in Myanmar than taking a hot air balloon ride in Bagan over 2,000 pagodas and temples to watch the sunrise from the sky.

Bagan is enthusiastically loved by photographers, couples, and people who are sympathetic to Buddhism.

Visit Bagan before it's overwhelmed by tourists!

Tour recommendation : 17-day Private tour to Myanmar, Vietnam, and Laos

2. Decide How Many Days to Stay

According to our data, most visitors spend 13–18 days on their first Southeast Asia trip to explore Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

1. 10–12 Days (time-efficient):

For a shorter excursion, focus on one country or a maximum of two to avoid the hassles of frequent hotel changes and rushing to airports. Consider popular combinations like Thailand and Cambodia , Thailand and Vietnam , Vietnam and Cambodia , or Singapore and Thailand .

With our expertly crafted itinerary, it is also possible to effortlessly visit three countries , such as our 12-Day Essential Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour , which covers the highlights of these captivating destinations.

Here is a sample itinerary to visit Thailand and Cambodia  (with the map below). 

2. 15–18 Days (for highlights):

With a bit more time, you can comfortably explore two or three countries . This allows for a deeper immersion into the local culture and a more relaxed pace. Consider combinations like Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, or select two among the three countries.

See our private tour 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour  (with the map below).

3. 20–30 Days (in-depth):

For an extended holiday, ranging from 20 to 30 days, you can embark on a thorough exploration of the entire peninsula . This duration is ideal for covering countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. Devote time to immerse yourself in the unique offerings of each destination.

Get some inspiration from our crafted itinerary: 19-Day In-Depth Tour of Southeast Asia (with the map below) .

Suggested reading:

• 2 Weeks in Southeast Asia: Top 5 Trip Itineraries
• 3 Weeks in Southeast Asia: Top 3 Trip Itineraries
• 4 Weeks in Southeast Asia: The Ultimate Itinerary for You! (Expert Advice)

3. Consider the Best Times to Travel

Lying within the tropics with southern areas very close to the equator, most of Southeast Asia is warm all year round.

• Generally speaking, the best time to visit most places in Southeast Asia is from November to February when the weather is dry (driest) and warm (on average). One of the busiest times is around Christmas and New Year. Hotels in popular cities/islands and flights between popular destinations are likely to be sold out in advance. Be sure to plan and make reservations in advance.
• Wet-season monsoon rains fall from June to October in most SE Asian countries (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar). The brief, intense rain showers during the wet season are unlikely to disrupt your plans.
• April to May are the hottest months with daytime temperatures reaching 37–40°C (99–104°F).

However, Indonesia (Bali) and Singapore are exceptions .

• The dry seasons in these two countries are from April to September.
• The rainy season (usually downpours in the afternoon) falls from October to March.

The rainy season and the hottest months usually reward you with less crowding and the best deals for flights and hotels. Take your outdoor activities mainly in the morning time during the rainy season.

Check out more on our Best Times to Visit Southeast Asia .

Traveling in Southeast Asia is way cheaper than in Europe and North America. A private tour in this region becomes an affordable indulgence , promising a luxurious experience without breaking the bank.

Hotels here won't break the bank. A 3-star hotel in Thailand is around 50-70 USD, and a 4-star one is 80-100 USD. Even luxury hotels cost as much as budget ones in the UK or US. You can go fancy or save big by staying in a hostel.

Eating is super affordable, thanks to awesome street food. Street vendors and small restaurants are cheap, and even fancy international meals in good restaurants won't cost more than a regular dinner in the UK or US. Imagine paying just 10 bucks for lunch and 20 to 50 USD for a nice dinner.

Activities are a steal too. Entry fees to temples and tourist spots are generally low, and adventurous experiences such as elephant trekking, snorkeling, and boat trips seldom exceed 20 USD.

Booking a trip to Thailand with Asia Highlights is excellent value for money!

In a region full of choices and potential tourist traps, we're here to reveal authentic Southeast Asia. Crafted by travel experts, our trips focus on culture, genuine experiences, and creating unforgettable memories together.

Costs vary with travel times. During the peak season, the cost for a private guided tour plus 4-star level hotels and flight connections within Southeast Asia normally ranges from US$200–250 per person per day . Kids under 10 get 30 to 50 percent off . Traveling in a bigger group or during shoulder season usually means less cost.

Book early (at least 3 months before departure) for better prices.

Flights from major U.S. cities to Southeast Asia require transfers. It takes less time to transfer via Taipei, Hong Kong, Singapore, or Seoul.

As popular tourist destinations and large cities in Southeast Asia, Thailand's Bangkok and Vietnam's Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh are usually visited as a first point of entry.

Air travel is the best way to travel between countries in Southeast Asia. Almost all capitals and popular tourist destinations have direct regional flights.

Booking a private tour with us, we will arrange your transportation within Southeast Asia. Our travel consultant will search the flight schedules, arrange the best connections, and book the air tickets.

6. Check Visa Requirements

Getting visas is generally an easy thing when touring Southeast Asia. Most countries offer visa-free entry, e-visas, or visas-on-arrival.

If you come from the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, or Switzerland, the following are available:

Tailor-Make Your Southeast Asia Tour with Us

Our private tours are the hassle-free solution to making family/couple trip arrangements. You would have a one-to-one travel consultant that you can always contact to communicate your tour ideas whenever it is convenient for you.

We would design your itinerary based on your interests, hotel preferences, dietary considerations, and other requirements.

• 11-Day Best of Thailand and Cambodia Tour
• 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 19-Day In-Depth Tour of Southeast Asia
• 28-Day Grand Indochina Tour

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

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Whenever I’m looking for a vibrant, colourful adventure that’s sure to throw me out of my comfort zone and provide some stories to tell, I think of Asia.

Asia, particularly the South East, is one of the most popular places on the map for a first-time backpacker . It’s where my love for travel began! See my tips for backpacking SE Asia here.

Asia is Earth’s largest and most populous continent, there’s a lot to explore. From the floating villages in Cambodia, the bustling streets of Bangkok, and world-class surf spots like Uluwatu , Weligama Beach and Siargao Island, to the Spiritual centre of Ubud , sunrise at Angkor Wat in Cambodia and snowy adventures on the North Island of Japan . It’s safe to say there’s a diverse range of adventure and I’ve only just touched the surface. 

Want to know the best places to visit in Asia and all my top tips for travelling in Asia? Grab a notepad and pen and tuck into my Asia travel guides below to get the inspiration flowing for your adventure. 

When is the best time to go?

As the world’s largest continent, the best time to visit Asia really depends on where you are going.

Through most of Southeast Asia and South Asia, the best time to go is between November and March. You miss the rainy season and the extremely hot summers and get to enjoy Asia in the still very hot in-between period. November and March are probably the best months in that period to go if you want to visit Asia in shoulder season and miss the big crowds. There are exceptions to the rule though. For example, Indonesia and Malaysia have their dry season from April to October, so it’s better to visit then if you can.

April-November is also the best time to visit Central Asia, an area that is very mountainous, and the summer is the perfect time to go hiking. The best time to visit the Middle East is September-November or March-May, which is when the temperatures are agreeable (not too hot) and there isn’t a lot of humidity or rainfall.

Mollie's favourites

Bali is a personal favourite of mine, particularly surfing in Uluwatu and connecting to all the spiritual practises and wellness offerings in Ubud .

Island-hopping in the Philippines, skiing in Niseko (the best powder in the world) and a few days exploring the incredible city of Tokyo are all up there with the best too. Indonesia is an incredible place to get your PADI (cheap) and go on some once in a lifetime underwater adventures. My first ever dive was with Manta Rays just off Nusa Lembongan .

Oh and I cannot forget backpacking in Asia, it’s just the most colourful fun (and interesting) experience of them all. I did Thailand , Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore back in 2013!

The Best Things To Do In Rishikesh

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Gili Island life – Saving the best for last

REVIEW: Flying with Finnair to Guangzhou

My top tips and travel hacks for Bali, Indonesia

Volunteering in Cebu City, the Philippines

22 top tips for solo travel in Southeast Asia

Things you should know before you solo travel in India

STORY TIME… Nearly getting knocked out by a taxi car boot in Danang, Vietnam

A guide to hiking Adam’s Peak, Sri Lanka

Bucket list adventures in asia.

• background Layer 1 Get your PADI certificate and go diving!
• background Layer 1 Backpacking SE Asia
• background Layer 1 Volunteer at an elephant sanctuary
• background Layer 1 Skiing in Niseko, Hokkaido
• background Layer 1 Drive Mario Karts around Tokyo
• background Layer 1 Canyoneering in the Philippines
• background Layer 1 Surfing in Sri Lanka

Asia Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Asia travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Asia is the world’s largest continent, and home to many memorable travel experiences. Hike up to Bhutan’s breathtaking Tiger’s Nest temple , explore well-preserved culture on Japan’s Taketomi Island , trek Nepal’s Mohare Danda Eco-Trek in the Annapurna Himalayas, or enjoy the beauty of Goa’s Palolem Beach .

These are just a few of many things to do in Asia!

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Asia.

Note: This guide to Asia travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Use this map of Asia to get started with your travel planning:

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above Asia travel map.

Bhutan Travel Guide

Best places to visit in bhutan.

Exploring Bhutan’s Phobjikha Valley, Land Of The Rare Black-Necked Crane

Exploring Jakar, The “Switzerland” Of Bhutan

There’s A Place In Bhutan That’s Obsessed With Penises (Punakha)

10 Amazing & Immersive Experiences To Have in Thimphu, Bhutan

How To Hike To Bhutan’s Breathtaking Tiger’s Nest

Bhutan Travel Tips

What Everyone Should know About Planning A Trip To Bhutan

Is Bhutan Worth The $250 Per Per Person Per Day Fee?

10 Reasons Why Bhutan Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

Bhutan Trip Reflections

6 Highs & 6 Lows From A Trip To Bhutan

13 Things That Make Bhutan Unlike Any Place In The World

Bhutan Travel Video

China travel guide, best places to visit in china.

Macau: China’s First & Last European Colony

Butterfly Valley, China: Where Visitors Become Family

China Highlights: Biking & Rafting In Yangshuo

Hiking The Longji Rice Terraces In China

A Unique Adventure Destination In Asia: The Altai Mountains

Hiking, Culture And Cuisine In China’s Sichuan Province

India Travel Guide

Best destinations in india.

5 Must-Visit Places To Experience The Best Of India

Traveling Northern India: 12 Experiences Beyond The Temples & Taj Mahal

10 Reasons Why Kerala Should Be Your Next Trip

10 Amazing Places For A Solo Trip From Delhi, India

India Adventures

Love hiking, cycling, and active adventures? Don’t miss:

Dzükou Valley Trek: Your Ultimate Guide To India’s Famous Hike

South India Travel Guides: Kerala

An Organic Farmstay Experience In Kerala, India

Houseboating Through Kerala’s Backwaters

Cycling The “Scotland Of Asia” To An Organic Farm In Kerala, India

Cycling Kerala’s Cardamom Trail

Ascending Tall Peaks & The World’s Highest Organic Tea Garden In Kerala

Why Kerala’s Silent Valley Is One Of The World’s Best National Parks

Cycling Kerala’s Culturally-Immersive Canal Route

South India Travels In Goa

Great Goa: Yoga, Dolphins & A Dose Of Clarity On Palolem Beach

A Disappointing Spice Farm Day Trip In Goa (& What To Do Instead)

Tips For Northern India Travel

India’s Unique Karni Mata Temple Is Devoted To Worshipping Rats

10 Unforgettable Things To Do In Delhi, India

How To Get High (Legally) In Varanasi, India

The Secret To Finding Peace In India Can Be Found In Bundi

Exploring Northern India Through Food

Tips For India Travel

Ayurverdic Massage In India: Not For The Modest

10 Reasons Why You Need To Visit India

5 Amazing Ways You Can Explore India’s Spiritual Side

9 Essential Travel Tips For Southern India

20 Unforgettable Solo Female Travel Destinations In India

India Travel Stories

How India Broke Me (& Why I’m Thankful For It)

That Time I was Charged By An Elephant In India

India Travel Video

Indonesia travel guide, bali travel tips.

Bali Solo Travel: How To Have An Amazing Time When Visiting Bali Alone

12 Best Flower Baths In Bali

Best & Worst Time To Travel To Bali

7 Day Bali Itinerary (With Map!)

Mount Agung Trekking: The Ultimate Guide

3 Day Ubud Itinerary (With Map!)

2-Week Bali Itinerary (Super Detailed!)

15 Best Waterfalls Near Ubud, Bali (With Map!)

15 Best Places To Stay In Ubud For Solo Travelers

Japan Travel Guide

Best places to visit in japan.

Japan Travel: 5 Reasons To Visit Taketomi Island In Okinawa

An Enchanting Deer Experience In Nara, Japan

A Tale Of Two Japans: From Cosmopolitan Tokyo To Okinawa’s Tropical Islands

8 Reasons Japan’s Kansai Region Should Be Your Next Trip

Islands Of Adventure: Jungle Trekking On Okinawa’s Iriomote Island

Kyoto Day Trip: Amanohashidate, Japan’s Scenic Sandbar

Finding True Love At The Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto

Sipping My Way Through Kagurazaka, Tokyo’s Speakeasy Neighborhood

Japan Culture Experiences

Weaving, Shiisa, Ishiganto: Experiencing Culture On Taketomi Island, Okinawa

Taking Part In A Traditional Tea Ceremony In Tokyo, Japan

Culture Shock: My First Onsen Experience In Japan

Tradition In Okinawa: What Is Shiisa?

Japan Travel Advice

Essential Japan Travel Tips (With Helpful Planning Lists Included)

What To Know Before Eating The Deadly Fufu Fish In Japan

Japan Food Trip

Learning The Art Of Soba Making In Japan

Having A Shabushabu Experience In Gion, Kyoto

4 Do-It-Yourself Dining Experiences Near Namba Station In Osaka

Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide

How To Spend 2 Weeks In Kyrgyzstan (Ultimate Itinerary!)

How To Visit Fairytale Canyon In Kyrgyzstan (With Video!)

Laos Travel Guide

Laos Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Malaysia Travel Guide

Malaysia Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Mongolia Travel Guide

18 Best Places To Visit In Mongolia

The Perfect 2 Week Mongolia Itinerary

An Unforgettable Adventure In Mongolia’s Altai Mountains

10 Festivals In Mongolia Worth The Trip

Best Time To Visit Mongolia

Nepal Travel Guide

Best places to visit in nepal.

Mohare Danda Trek: A Stunning Annapurna Region Trekking Route

Nepal Food: A Kathmandu Cooking Class + Local Food Tour

Nepal Travel Video

Taiwan travel guide, best places to visit in taiwan.

Active Exploring In Taiwan’s Taroko National Park

Cycling Sun Moon Lake In Taiwan

Hiking In Taiwan’s Dramatic Yehliu Geopark

13 Best Hiking Trails In Taiwan You Shouldn’t Miss

Taiwan Travel Advice

How To Have A Quirky Stay At Hi-Lai Plaza Hotel’s Hello Kitty Room

Unusual Excursions: Traveler’s Guide To Quirky Taiwan

Solo Travel In Taiwan: How To Have An Amazing Trip On Your Own

Taiwan Food Trip

Unusual Discoveries In A Taiwanese Fish Market

Thailand Travel Guide

Discovering The Meaning Of Buddhism In Thailand

How To Spend A Year In Thailand

Thailand Travel: How To Use The Free Bangkok Airport Shuttle

Solo Travel, Local Culture & Going Beyond The Guidebook In Thailand

Turkey Travel Guide

These Turkey travel tips, destinations, and itinerary suggestions will help you plan the perfect trip!

Cruising The Mediterranean: Turkey & Greece

Okey & Turkish Tea In A “Men Only” Hangout In Istanbul

Antalya: Luxury, History & Culture On The Turkish Riviera

Tracing The Heritage Of Delicious Turkish Dolma [Recipe Included]

Solo Travel In Istanbul: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

Vietnam Travel Guide

Best places to visit in vietnam.

Stunning Images From The World’s Largest Cave In Vietnam

Solo Travel, Local Culture & Going Beyond The Guidebook In Vietnam

My Unwanted Paparazzi Moment On Cat Ba Island In Vietnam (Important Lesson Included!)

Asia Travel Tips

Traveling to Asia ? This Asia travel advice can help you plan the perfect trip!

Top 10 Vacation Destinations In Asia

5 Amazing Ways Solo Travel In Southeast Asia Changed Me

25 Best Places To Travel Solo In Asia

20 Best Beach Destinations For Solo Female Travelers (Asia & Beyond!)

Top Asia Tours

Enjoy the best of Asia travel and tours through the following experiences.

• Tour of Jewish Shanghai (China) led by a Jewish History Expert
• 9-Day Bhutan Cultural Tour with Day Hikes
• Taroko Zhuilu Old Trail Tour in Taiwan
• Phi Phi, Bamboo & Rang Yai Islands in Thailand Snorkeling Trip with Lunch by Speedboat

Click here for a full list of Asia travel tours .

Asia Hotels

Click here to browse the best hotels in Asia!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Asia Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on an Asia tour. When visiting Asia — or any other destination in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Asia itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Asia Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling Asia .

Q: What is Asia famous for?

Along with being the largest continent on Earth, Asia is known for its delicious food, holistic wellness practices, well-preserved cultural traditions, and for being home to 14 of the world’s tallest mountains.

Q: Where should I travel in Asia for the first time?

When considering the top places to visit in Asia , it’s tough to narrow it down to just one. Many travelers choose to backpack through Southeast Asia and visit many countries, though other worthwhile options include island hopping in Indonesia (and doing a relaxing Bali flower bath !), shopping in Hong Kong, eating your way through Singapore, going back in time at Cambodia’s Angkor Wat temple complex, or immersing yourself in the cultural traditions of Japan.

Traveling alone? There are also many great solo female travel destinations in India !

These are just a few of many ideas when it comes to Asia travel!

Q: What is the best country in Asia to visit?

According to the United Nations, there are 48 countries in Asia — though, narrowing this list down to the best places to travel to in Asia is challenging, as each offers something unique and special. That being said, a few popular countries to visit include Thailand , South Korea, Sri Lanka, China , Vietnam , Indonesia, India , and Japan .

While the above list is in no way exhaustive, these destinations hopefully provide a good starting point for your travel plans. These are also great places to visit if you’re planning a solo trip to Asia .

Q: What is the cheapest country to travel in Asia?

A few of the cheapest countries to visit in Asia include Nepal , India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, and Pakistan (which is physically located in South Asia but is also considered part of the Greater Middle East).

Q: How much money do you need to travel around Asia?

The cost of traveling to Asia will depend on numerous factors, such as where you’re visiting, where you’re flying from, and your travel style. That being said, once you book your flights and get your travel insurance , you can generally start with a budget of $40 per day per person and adjust it from there.

Keep in mind, depending on where you’re going you may need to allot extra money for visa fees.

Q: What are the most beautiful countries in Asia?

A few of the most beautiful countries in Asia include the Maldives, Malaysia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines.

Q: Where is the best place in Asia to go to learn to meditate?

If you’re interested in wellness travel , particularly meditation, don’t miss visiting Rishikesh in India. This is known as the birthplace of yoga, which meditation is an important part of.

Q: What are the top tourist attractions in Southeast Asia?

A few of the top tourist attractions in Southeast Asia include Angkor Wat (Cambodia), Hồ Chí Minh/Saigon (Vietnam), Ha Long Bay (Vietnam), Kuang Si Waterfall (Laos), Inle Lake (Myanmar/Burma), and the Batu Caves (Malaysia).

What would you add to this Asia travel guide?

Explore Asia's Most Beautiful Destinations to Travel

Go Asia Guide is the most comprehensive and up-to-date travel guide for Asia. We provide information on over 50 countries, including visa requirements, currency exchange rates, popular tourist destinations, and more.

Discover Asia: Where Contrasts Meet in Vibrant Cities, Serene Villages, and Unforgettable Flavors!

Hey everyone, if you haven't considered a trip to Asia yet, you're missing out big time. Asia is a continent of incredible contrasts. You've got vibrant cities like Tokyo and Seoul, where dazzling lights and towering skyscrapers make you feel like you're in a futuristic wonderland. Then there are peaceful villages surrounded by green rice fields and ancient temples, where time seems to move slowly and peacefully. And the food! It's a journey in itself. From Thailand's spicy curries to Japan's delicate sushi, every bite is a burst of flavor. And the street food? It's a wild ride from grilled meats to crunchy insects, and it's all delicious. The people here are warm and friendly, always ready to share a laugh or invite you in for a chat over tea. You might even get to experience a traditional ceremony or festival if you're lucky. So why wait? Plan your trip to Asia today. And if you see me around, come say hi—I'll be the one with a big smile and a huge appetite. Now go out there and explore this amazing continent!

What Makes Asia Different

Asia beckons with its diverse landscapes, tantalizing cuisines, and rich cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure and discovery.

Diverse Landscapes

From bustling cities to tranquil villages and scenic natural wonders, Asia offers a myriad of landscapes to explore.

Rich Culture and Hospitality

Experience warm welcomes, ancient traditions, and vibrant festivals that showcase Asia's deep cultural heritage.

Popular Destinations in Asia

Explore popular Asia destinations, from bustling Tokyo to serene Bali, each offering unique cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

Thailand Travel Guide

Thailand is a Southeast Asian country known for its beaches, temples, and friendly people. It is a popular tourist destination, and with good reason.

Read More About Thailand

Vietnam Travel Guide

Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, and friendly people.

Read More About Vietnam

Indonesia Travel Guide

Plan your dream trip to Indonesia, a country of over 17,000 islands with stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly people.

Read More About Indonesia

Embark on a journey where ancient whispers meet modern dreams: Asia awaits your wanderlust.

Read these Asia travel guides to uncover the best destinations, experiences, and tips for your next adventure in the continent.

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Indonesia , Malaysia , Singapore , Thailand , The Philippines , Vietnam

101 backpacking asia travel tips | based on 2 years’ experience.

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Southeast Asia is the place that first captured my heart and turned me into a traveller. While I know many of the countries well, there’s always more to do, see and experience in this captivating region. It’s fantastic for all types of travellers, but today I’m going to be sharing my Asia backpacking tips . Southeast Asia is one of the world’s most popular places for backpacking. It’s cheap, safe and beautiful with friendly people and delicious food. From pho to laksa, banh mi, pad Thai, massaman curry and chilli crab, you’ll never have your fill… Of Asia, or the food!

Related read: the ultimate Southeast Asia bucket list

SOUTHEAST ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Hostelworld / Booking.com Lonely Planet Southeast Asia Activities: GetYourGuide / Klook

What to know before backpacking Southeast Asia

Despite being safe and friendly, there’s still plenty to know before you embark on a Southeast Asia backpacking trip. Not only do you want to make the most of your trip and not miss anything, but most of the countries are different to the West in terms of attitudes, values, religion and customs. These Southeast Asia tips will help you make the best of your trip and ensure you don’t get in trouble or cause cultural offence. Then, there’s living out of a backpack for an extended period: a challenge in itself! I’ll share my packing tips for backpacking Southeast Asia including what to bring and what to bin.

I spent 11 months backpacking Asia between 2015-16, parts solo and parts with friends. It was a fun and carefree trip. The photos suck but the memories triumph. I drank too much, learnt a lot, took terrible photos, and generally dipped my toes into Southeast Asia. Then, when I started working remotely , I spent 14 months in Southeast Asia from 2018-19. I based between Vietnam, Bali, Thailand and Malaysia, getting to know cities like Hanoi , Hoi An , Ubud , Penang and Chiang Mai . Although I had more laptop days than late nights, I slowed down and got to know the locals. Both trips were wonderful in their own ways. After 25 months in Southeast Asia, I feel I’m still scratching the surface. A lifetime would be too short! (Then I buggered off to Mexico and fell in love all over again. So fickle!)

Here are my top travel tips for Asia…

Asia tips for planning and organisation

1. Plan your route right – you don’t want to end up going back on yourself and spending extra money on transport. I did this all wrong, learnt from my errors and put together this backpacking Asia route & itinerar y .  2. Spend enough time per country – this is another lesson I learnt the hard way. I didn’t spend nearly enough time in Cambodia or Laos. Research what you want to do and see in each country before deciding how long to spend.  3. But don’t over plan – this may sound contradictory but I’d advise keeping things loose enough that you can travel with new friends if / when you meet them. I’d suggest not booking your transport too far in advance. 

4. Vaccinations  – check which are required for the countries you wish to visit. 5. Visas  – suss out visa requirements before your trip. You can get in trouble for overstaying even if by accident. Some countries like Vietnam only allow entry for 2 weeks without a visa (for most nationalities). You can apply for a longer one in advance or ensure your travel itinerary fits into their requirements.

6. Get travel insurance! It’s not worth travelling without it. I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . 7. Ensure you have 6 months left on your passport – this is a rule for travel in general not just Southeast Asia.

8. Carry copies of your vital documents – this is an important tip for Asia travel (and travel generally). I keep a scan of my passport and insurance details close in case of emergency.

9. Avoid burning seasons – Northern Thailand turns into a land of polluted fog between February and April. I would time your trip outside this period. 10. Be aware of local holidays – for example, Vietnam shuts down for Tet on 1 February. You won’t be able to catch a bus or visit any attractions. Likewise, Nyepi in Bali (usually in March) is when bad spirits are thought to fly over. Shops are shut and everyone has to stay indoors. 11. Proof of onward travel – occasionally when entering a country, you’ll be asked to provide proof that you’ll exit before the end of your visa. One way to get around this is by booking a refundable journey on Expedia.COM (very important it’s the US site) and cancelling within the set period. 12. Don’t be scared to go solo – I can personally vouch for solo travel in Vietnam , Thailand , Malaysia , Indonesia , Laos, Cambodia and the Philippines . With hostels and public transport, solo travel won’t cost much more, either. Keep reading for my budget tips for backpacking Southeast Asia…

Read next: my solo travel guides

13. Get off the beaten track – as Asia backpacking tips go, this could be the best one yet. Since Southeast Asia is so safe, you don’t have to worry about staying on-grid (like you would in India for example). Make sure you escape the tourist hotspots in search of more peaceful places. 14. Download the right apps – some of the best apps for travelling Asia include XE (currency converter), Uber and Grab, Skyscanner , Google Translate, SplitWise (great for splitting bills with travel buddies) and Maps.me.

Travel tips for Asia

15. Use 12Go – this website and app is ridiculously useful. It shows transport options between any two destinations including bus, train, ferry and boat. Compare durations and price, and pay by card or PayPal. 

16. Get used to long bus journeys – you’ll be a pro by the end. Always bring a book / Kindle or download something to watch on your phone or tablet (but don’t flash around expensive devices). Keep your valuables close on night buses. 17. Know which border crossings are easy (and when to fly) – it’s usually easy to cross Asian borders but there are a few mammoth journeys where you’ll wish you flew. Here’s a quick summary:

• Thailand to Cambodia – easy. Take a 13-hour bus or 16-hour train from Bangkok to Siem Reap .
• Thailand to Laos – easy (although time-consuming) on the slow boat or bus . For the boat, travel from Huay Xai (easily reachable from Chiang Rai ) to Luang Prabang with an overnight stop in Pakbeng.
• Laos to Vietnam – this is a long bus journey between Luang Prabang and Hanoi lasting up to 28 hours. You may want to fly instead.
• Vietnam to Cambodia – easy. Take a 6-hour bus between Saigon and Phnom Penh (or a river adventure over the course of a few days ).
• Thailand to Malaysia – catch a ferry from Koh Lipe to Langkawi .

18. Agree taxi prices beforehand – or insist on using the meter. Keep an eye out for rigged meters that start shooting up by huge amounts. If this happens, get out. 19. Download the local taxi apps – countries often have their own version of Uber. I used GoJek in Indonesia and Grab in Vietnam and Thailand. As well as cars, you can call scooter taxis – these are a game-changer for travelling on a budget ! Your driver will provide you with a helmet.

20. Take public transport – don’t be shy. Journeys are often listed on Google Maps so use your phone to check you’re not headed in the wrong direction. Public transport is the cheapest way to get around.

21. Research how to get around in new cities – major cities in Southeast Asia often have efficient transport networks. For example: 

• Bangkok – Metro and Sky Train (pay with cash or card)
• Chiang Mai – songthaews (big red share taxis – just hail them and pay in cash)
• Hanoi – bus (pay the fares of 5-10k VND in cash)
• Kuala Lumpur – there are several trains: the Metro, LRT, monorail and KLIA airport express (pay with cash or card).

22. Learn to ride a scooter – providing you wear a helmet and your insurance covers it, riding a scooter is a great way to explore Asia on a budget, especially in Bali where there’s no public transport. Hire yours in advance . 23. Photograph them before leaving the rental store – snap any existing scratches or damage when you hire your scooter in case you get charged for it. 24. Download Maps.me – this is your best app for navigation. Download offline maps for whole countries.

Southeast Asia tips for staying connected

25. There’s usually Wi-Fi – I spent a whole year in Asia relying on Wi-Fi rather than buying a SIM card. Most hostels have Wi-Fi as well as many cafes and public places. 26. SIM cards – it’s easy to find affordable SIM cards should you want them. Ask staff at your hostel staff where to get one. Monthly data packages often cost $5-10. Check Klook for pre-ordered SIM cards delivered to your accommodation. Update – there’s a new eSim data package that works around most countries in SE Asia. Just scan the QR code to activate it!

27. Skype credit – I use FaceTime and WhatsApp to call friends and family but Skype is a godsend when I need to make a phone call home (for example to my bank or insurance company). Skype credit is a fraction of the price of making an international call via a SIM card. Use the web version or mobile app. 28. Get a Mobile Wi-Fi hotspot – these let you insert a SIM card and share the data between your devices. This can be handy for watching things in the evenings as often Wi-Fi is available in hostel communal areas but doesn’t stretch to the rooms. 29. Travel with a VPN – to browse the internet securely and ensure your personal details don’t get shared via public Wi-Fi networks, use a VPN. They also bypass countries’ restrictions so you’ll be able to watch shows from your home country.

Tips for Asia backpacking & hostels

The following backpacking Southeast Asia tips will help set your expectations for hostels & meeting people on the road.

Related read: how to meet people when travelling solo

30. Pick the right hostel for you – I’d describe myself as an extrovert who likes nightlife and even at 21, some of the Asia hostels were too much for me. You’ll meet people in party hostels who don’t seem to even like travel – they just want to drink and hook up! Which is fine, but just be aware what you’re letting yourself in for. 31. There are cosy hostels too – it’s easy to find family-run hostels that attract a friendly backpack crowd. Look at the photos and reviews on Hostelworld to make an educated guess.

Want to save money on accommodation? I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects travellers with homeowners who need their homes & pets sat. It means staying longer in a place but can be great if you’re not in a rush! Plus, you get to hang out with cute pets.

32. Be approachable  – don’t bring your book to communal areas. 33. Pack earplugs – especially in party hostels! Aside from people coming in drunk, hooking up or snoring, there’s always some noise in dorms whether it’s someone going to the bathroom or leaving for a flight. 34. Don’t be THAT dorm mate – pack the night before . This should really go in the ethical Asia tips below 😉 There’s nothing worse than being woken up at 6am by the sound of a dorm mate packing for their flight. 35. Join Facebook groups – search for backpacking Asia groups on Facebook. You may cross paths with the members or glean useful Southeast Asia travel tips. Those that identify as women can join Girls Love Travel . 36. Make friends with locals – don’t stick to socialising with other backpackers! Befriend tour guides and hostel staff. Get chatting to locals when you’re out and about. You’ll have a blast and learn a lot from them.

Related read: How to pick a great travel buddy

Cultural immersion tips

37. Get used to the bum gun – two words not usually used in the same sentence. This handy device is used in place of toilet paper in many Asian bathrooms. 38. Prepare for squat toilets – these aren’t everywhere but you’ll encounter them at some point. 39. Prepare for different health and safety standards – things are quite relaxed in comparison to Western countries but do always insist on helmets / life jackets etc. Your insurance may be void otherwise. Suggesting you’ll take your business elsewhere usually results in someone ‘finding’ a spare helmet…

Wellbeing backpacking tips for Asia

40. Know you might get homesick – it’s normal and not a sign of failure. Luckily, technology is good when you want to call people back home. You can usually find Western comforts when you need them, especially in major cities like Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Nothing wrong with a mall day!  41. Plan rest days – I massively burnt myself out during my first Asia backpacking trip. I didn’t factor any rest days and almost stopped enjoying myself altogether. It’s worth booking a private room and having a few lazy days to do life admin, laundry etc. 

Tips for eating in Southeast Asia

42. Eat street food  – the food is about 60% of the reason I always return to Asia. It’s delicious! Check out some of my Asian food guides:

• Hanoi street food
• Hoi An street food
• Saigon street food
• Finding the best bahn mi in Vietanm
• Chiang Mai food guide
• Bangkok Chinatown food guide
• Kuala Lumpur Chinatown food guide
• Penang street food
• Where to eat in Melaka, Malaysia
• Singapore street food
• Best Ubud warungs
• Restaurants in Canggu, Bali

43. Bring reusable items  – sadly a lot of plastic in used in Asia. There are a few items I travel with and would recommend taking with you. These are:

• Metal straw kit with straw cleaner and cloth bag (pro tip – learn how to say ‘no straw please’ in local languages)
• Reusable coffee cup (collapsable) for hot takeaway drinks
• Reusable Tupperware box for takeaway and leftover food
• Reusable bamboo cutlery set for eating at markets.

44. Don’t drink tap water in Asia – it’s safe to drink bottled water (just make sure the lid is sealed) although not very sustainable. It’s best to bring a reusable water bottle that you can fill up from large filtered units at your accommodation. Alternatively, pack a filtering water bottle that sterilises water for safe drinking.

45. Eat where it’s busy  – in terms of street food safety, this is one of the best Asia tips for staying healthy. Eat where it’s busy because there will be a quick turnaround of food meaning nothing has been sat around long. If locals are eating there, it’s a bonus.

46. Drink local beer – keep it cheap by keeping it local. Drink Chang in Thailand, Bintang in Bali and beer hoi (locally produced fresh beer) in Vietnam.

47. Take cooking classes – these are so much fun. I’ve taken them in most Southeast Asian countries now. Some of my favourites are Aroy Aroy Cooking School in Chiang Mai and Thuan Tinh Island Cooking Tour in Hoi An.

Safety tips for Southeast Asia

The following Southeast Asia backpacking tips will keep you safe. But remember you still need insurance however careful you are! 48. Watch out for pickpockets – Southeast Asia has little violent crime. Having your valuables stolen is as bad as it gets. While not life-threatening, you still want to avoid it. The following Asia tips will help you avoid sticky situations…  49. Split up your bank cards – for the love of god! If you ignore the other 100 Southeast Asia tips in this blog and just remember this, my work is done. Don’t lose them all once like I did.  50. Scooter snatchers – the most common way to get robbed is when you’re on foot and a couple of guys whiz by on a scooter, the one at the back grabbing your phone/bag. It happened to me in Vietnam. To stay safe… 51. Wear a crossbody bag – I usually wear the one below but you can go even safer with one that goes around your chest or waist . I have one I sleep wearing on night buses.

Packing tips for Asia

The following travel tips for Southeast Asia relate to luggage, clothes and useful travel gadgets and accessories … 52. Get a good backpack – you’ll be carrying it every few days so it’s worth getting a decent one. I recommend the Osprey Farpoint ( men’s ) ( women’s ). You won’t need more than 65L. In terms of day bags, I use a:

• Small rucksack for hiking (which I carry on my front during transit days)
• Crossbody bag for days/nights out
• Secure bum bag for night buses.

53. Packing cubes – these are a lifeline for organising your luggage. 54. Pack light – I’d suggest tops and bottoms that you can mix n match, underwear and swimwear, an extra layer for evenings/cooler places, and a raincoat. Laundry facilities are cheap so you don’t need many outfits. Bring 1 pair of comfy walking shoes (hiking boots not necessary unless you’re doing something extreme), 1 pair or sandals and 1 pair of flip flops.  55. Keep it casual for evenings out – you rarely need fancy going out clothes in SE Asia. I pack 1-2 ‘nice’ dresses for days and nights out. 56. Sarong – although you’ll look like a tourist, this is a handy Southeast Asia tip. I have a trusty sarong I use on the beach, to cover my legs at temples, and as a cover on bus journeys. Don’t worry if you leave home without one – you can buy them cheaply at markets in Asia. 

57. Don’t wear white – it’ll never stay clean. I don’t know if dust and mud is particularly stubborn in Southeast Asia or if it’s something about the laundry… Either way, just don’t do it. 58. Wear cool clothes – it’s better to have cool cotton clothes than synthetic materials which make you sweat in the heat. I often prefer to wear long (but thin) sleeves and pants that save you getting burnt. These are also better for visiting religious sites where revealing clothing may cause cultural offence. 59. Bring enough sunscreen – I’ve been burnt (literally) before. When you buy local Asian brands of sunscreen, it rarely works. Make sure to bring enough for your trip or buy it from a reputable store or mall in Asia. It’ll be pricey but worth it. 

60. Mosquito spray – the same goes for mosquito spray. Aim to bring enough for your trip as local brands may vary in quality. 61. Don’t bring designer items – no one else will have them and you’ll put yourself at risk of theft. 62. No need to worry about sunglasses – you will find $1 ‘Raybans’ on every street corner in Southeast Asia. 

63. Neck pillow – the holy grail of backpacker items! You won’t regret the space a neck pillow takes up.

64. Sanitary products – this is a useful Asia tip for people with periods. You can usually only buy pads not tampons. Either take a bunch with you or – the more sustainable option – pack a moon cup (or similar brand) . 65. Watch out for whitening products – it’s worth noting that body products in Asia commonly contain skin whitener. Scrutinise the packaging; I was usually able to find products without… Aside from deodorant. I spent a year with very pale underarms.

Money tips for backpacking Asia

The following travel tips for Asia will help you budget and – hopefully – travel for longer.. . 66. Know what to budget – generally, $1,000 a month is a good starting point for Southeast Asia backpacking although it’s worth noting that countries vary in price. Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia are the cheapest in my opinion. I’ll put together a big guide to do this topic justice but a few general costs (in USD) are:

• Bed in a hostel dorm – $3-10
• Private hostel room or budget guesthouse – $15-20
• Street food meal – $1-3
• Western-style restaurant meal – $5
• Bottled water – $1
• Intercountry bus journey – $10-20
• Day tours – $10-50
• Diving – $300 for a 3-day course inc accommodation in Koh Tao.

67. Learn to haggle – locals expect it so don’t pay the first price quoted, especially at crafts markets. 

68. Volunteer – in the past, I’ve volunteered in exchange for food and board using Workaway and Worldpackers . They have plenty of positions from hostel work to farming, language exchanges and helping with promotion. There are even a few paid positions.  Read next: which is better, Workaway or Worldpackers ? 69. Travel through the night – not only do you save the cost of a night’s accommodation, but you free up the next day (although this is hit-and-miss – I often end up napping if I’ve not slept well on the bus). 70. Have USD – since there’s no universal currency in Asia, it’s worth bringing some USD ($100 or so). You’ll thank me for this Asia travel tip when you need to buy a visa on the border but haven’t been able to withdraw local currency yet.

71. Always carry cash – you can rarely pay with card in Southeast Asia. Withdraw cash every few days so you’re not carrying too much. 72. Prepare for various currencies – if you have money leftover when entering a new country, exchange it at a reputable money changer (do a bit of research for example this article on the best places to exchange money in Hanoi ). Airports charge the worst rates and there are often scams at land borders. Use XE currency app to check you’re getting a decent rate. Main currencies in Southeast Asia :

• Vietnam – Dong (VND)
• Indonesia – Rupiah (RP)
• Cambodia – Riel (KHR) and USD
• Laos – Kip (LAK)
• Malaysia – Ringgit (RM)
• Singapore – Singapore dollar (SGD)
• Thailand – Baht (THB)
• Myanmar – Kyat (MMK)
• Philippines – Pesos (PHP).

73. Sign up for mobile banks with reduced fees – my three favourites for UK travellers are Monzo, Revolut and Starling. Wise (for all nationalities) is great for low-cost international money transfers. If you get one of their cash cards, there are no foreign transaction fees and you can withdraw $250 a month without fees.

Ethical tips for Asia

The following tips for travelling Southeast Asia will ensure everyone benefits from your travels! 74. Avoid unethical animal activities – the tiger temple is a truly despicable place in Thailand where tigers are drugged for tourist photos. Never go. Also, don’t listen to anyone who tells you it’s okay to ride elephants. Here’s why not . 75. Avoid human tourism – for example the Karen ‘long neck’ groups in Northern Thailand. Many are actually Burmese and have had their passports confiscated to keep them trapped for tourism purposes. Be wary and read reviews whenever people are involved in tourist activities. 76. Give tips  – if you’ve had good service, tip your tour guide/waiter at least 10%. 77. Learn a bit of local lingo  – even if it’s just hello, thank you and goodbye, people will appreciate it.

Tours in Asia

78. Know you rarely NEED them – although I often enjoy taking tours to learn from local guides and support their livelihoods, it’s easy to do Southeast Asia independently. The ones I would recommend however are an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay and a trekking tour in Sapa (both in Vietnam). 

79. Multi day / week tours – again, you don’t need to take these but if you’re lonely or burnt out from organising everything, they can be a worthwhile investment. G Adventures are great for getting off-the-beaten-track while Contiki are more of a young, social company. Consider taking one in the middle of your trip if you need a break.

80. Day tours – if I can’t be bothered with organisation or I’m visiting somewhere tricky to access by public transport, I browse Viator , GetYourGuide and Klook to see who has the best offer on day tours.

81. Asian food tours are great! Yes, you can go it alone and eat like a king/queen BUT I love taking food tours because you get to try so many things by splitting them with the group, plus the guides always know best. My favourite food tour operator in Asia is A Chef’s Tour . So far I’ve taken their Chiang Mai Northern Food Tour by Truck and their Bangkok Chinatown tour .

What to know before backpacking Asia: country-specific tips

Now I’ve shared my general travel tips for Asia, here are a few country-specific tidbits…

Tips for Vietnam

• 82. Get the sleeper bus all down the coast – since Vietnam is so long and thin, it’s easy to travel without going back on yourself. The journeys are often long but the buses are comfortable with individual beds. Buy a book of tickets in any Hanoi or Saigon travel agents or individually on 12Go .
• 83. Spend enough time in Northern Vietnam – I’d suggest 3 days in Sapa and a 2-night Ha Long Bay trip. Since you’ll need to connect through Hanoi (where I’d also recommend spending 3 days), you’ll want to dedicate at least a week to Northern Vietnam. 

Essential reading: 2 week – 1 month Vietnam itinerary | 3 x North Vietnam itineraries | 3 day Hanoi itinerary | Hoi An itinerary | Saigon itinerary

Tips for Thailand 

• 84. Time your trip around festivals – Songkran water festival in April is a blast wherever you spend it. Yi Peng and Loy Krathong are lantern festivals held in November in Chiang Mai.
• 85. You can only spend 30 days in Thailand without a visa – consider exploring Bangkok and the north then heading through Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam before returning to Thailand for another 30 days to do the islands justice.

Related reads: Solo travel in Thailand | 2 day Bangkok itinerary | 3 day Chiang Mai itinerary | things to do in Chiang Rai

Tips for Cambodia

• 86. Prepare for heartbreak at Phnom Penh’s Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. Although it’s difficult to see and learn about, it’s important to understand Cambodia’s recent history.
• 87. You only use Cambodian Riel for small purchases like local buses. For everything else, use USD. You can withdraw this from Cambodian ATMs.

Tips for Laos

• 88. Don’t stick to the north – Four Thousand Islands in Southern Laos are beautiful and a convenient place to cross into Cambodia.
• 89. The capital isn’t great – there’s not much to do in Vientiane from a tourist perspective although there is good food.
• 90. Visit Vang Vieng for ecotourism – now the dangerous tubing bars have closed, the region is ripe for exploring spectacular nature.

Tips for Myanmar

• 91. Be aware of the political situation – in 2023, it’s not safe to visit Myanmar. I’ll update this section as things develop.

Tips for Indonesia

• 92. Don’t stick to Bali – there are 17,000 islands in Indonesia so it would be a shame to only see one. I spent time on Java Island and want to visit Komodo and Flores. 
• 93. Taxi apps are banned in Bali – there’s also no public transport so unless you hire a scooter , you’ll spend a lot of money on (overpriced) government taxis.  Full-day private taxi tours with companies like GetYourGuide are often more affordable.
• 94. Get your vegan fix! The cuisine in most Asian countries is heavily meaty; this is your place to indulge in plant-based Balinese food .

Related reads: 2 week Bali itinerary | 3 day Ubud itinerary | Hidden gems in Bali | top places in North Bali

Tips for Malaysia

• 95. Unlike most Asian countries, Malaysia has an efficient train network – or you can take the bus between destinations. When travelling within cities, there are no taxi scooters (only Uber cars) so budget a little extra.
• 96. Penang is food heaven ! Save all your stomach room for a trip to George Town.
• 97. In Kuala Lumpur, stay in Chinatown – there’s great food in KL Chinatown and most of the attractions are nearby.

Related reads: 2 week Malaysia itinerary | How to spend 2 days in Kuala Lumpur | Things to do in Ipoh | Things to do in Melaka | Things to do in Penang

Tips for Singapore

• 98. Singapore CAN be done on a budget – I ate at hawker markets (hardly a problem as the food is delicious!), stayed in hostels and took the Metro. You might want to splash out on the Cloud Forest and a Singapore Sling cocktail, though.
• 99. Check prices before ordering – I got tricked into paying $50 for chilli crab at a street stall because I hadn’t checked the price first. I later learnt this is a common scam: everything else on the menu will be $5 apart from the crab which is ‘priced by weight’. You then get charged a ridiculous figure and can’t argue because you already ate it!

Related reads: 2 day Singapore itinerary | Best Singapore street food guide | Koon Seng Road | Singapore street art

Tips for the Philippines 

• 100. Budget time and money for getting between islands – it’s not easy to island-hop by boat. Islands like Palawan and Cebu are a flight apart usually with a stop in Manila.
• 101. Get outta Manila ! This is one of my least favourite cities in Southeast Asia. It’s polluted, not especially safe and the traffic is ridiculous.

Related read: Complete guide to backpacking the Philippines | the best islands to visit in the Philippines

Phew, 101 travel tips for Asia all wrapped up! Did you learn anything new?

Use my Southeast Asia bucket list and my Southeast Asia itinerary & route planner to help plan your adventure.

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

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Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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How to plan a trip to Asia

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Any month you want to travel you’ll be able to find somewhere in Asia with great weather. The only thing to try and avoid weather-wise is monsoon season, and this varies from country to country depending on its geographical location. So our advice is to look up the monsoon season for the country you’re thinking of travelling to and try and work around that.

With so many budget airlines flying between Asia and Australia you can land some really cheap flights. Sign up to the carriers like Scoot, Air Asia and Jetstar to keep on top of cheap flight alerts.

Some part of Asia require vaccinations and visas as well, so be sure to check out the Australian government’s Smart Traveller website for information regarding your specific destination.

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What to do in Asia

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If you’re after a high-octane holiday there are all sorts of rugged outdoor adventures to have in Asia, whether it be speed boat rides, wildlife expeditions, hikes, diving, skiing trips or surfing safaris. Alternatively, if you want to simply spend your mornings shopping, your afternoons lying by the pool and your evenings eating at some of the world’s greatest restaurants, Asia can deliver that too. If you’re a history buff, the countries of Asia also deliver some of the most enthralling cultural experiences on the planet.

Beaches in Asia

The geographical location of Asia makes it the ideal place for a beach holiday. Balmy weather and warm waters make this a sun-seeker’s paradise.

Thailand is famed for its islands such as Phuket , Koh Samui , and Koh Phangan , where excellent resorts abound. Krabi appears to be the next big destination according to latest travel stats and we can see why. It’s nowhere near as busy as the tourist hotspots in Thailand and offers some of its most striking scenery. The area’s stunning natural beauty is a drawcard. Limestone formations soar above the Andaman Sea and white sand beaches are met by turquoise waters. You’ll feel like you’re a world away in a tropical paradise.

Bali is a mecca for surfing enthusiasts (as well as sunbakers in Seminyak and Lombok), India has the beaches of Goa , Sri Lanka will take your breath away with its white sandy shores and the Maldives is one of the most sought-after beach locations in the world.

Malaysia and Cambodia also have their fair share of excellent beaches that are a little more off the beaten tourist track.

Phu Quoc is just one hour’s flight south of Saigon, but it’s Vietnam’s most underrated island – full of stunning bays and empty white beaches, bustling seafood markets and sunset bars along its western coastline where simple barefoot restaurants serve fresh seafood to travellers.

The islands of the Philippines are also known for their magnificent beaches ( and there’s more to it than just Boracay ).

Cultural experiences in Asia

Asia is a destination with an astounding, ancient and fabled history, where traditional cultures collide with bustling, modern cities; with a cuisine so diverse and full of flavour you’ll be watering at the mouth; and whose people are eager to share their land and stories with you.

From traditional tea ceremonies in Japan to exploring the Hindu temples of India and giving an offering to Buddha in China, this is an area teeming with authentic cultural experiences.

Perhaps you’d like to experience geisha culture on a trip to Japan or explore the Temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

In Vietnam you can experience the country’s colonial past, even encountering its famous Cu Chi Tunnels, where many resistance activities took place during the Vietnam War. Cruise down the Mekong Delta, experience the picturesque beauty of Halong Bay and see the beautiful Po Nagar Cham Towers of Qui Nhon.

India is home to some incredible grand palaces and Jaipur is the jewel in the crown of the country. The pink blush of the incredible architecture here will take your breath away.

Home to 10 of the world’s 14 tallest mountains, Nepal has got to be on your bucket list. Spend a day in Kathmandu acclimatising to the Himalayan altitude before getting to grips with local markets, ornate temples and traditional dancing.

The Great Wall of China stretches 8,850 kilometres from the Bohai Sea to the Gobi Desert, built from brick, stone, earth and wood in the seventh century BC to keep northern raiders at bay. Nothing can prepare you for the awe of the Great Wall as it snakes along the mountain ridges as far as the eye can see.

The ancient city of Bagan in Myanmar is home to the largest concentration of Buddhist temples in the world, with many dating from the 11th and 12th centuries. As many as 13,000 temples and stupas once stood in the area around Bagan, and to this day, more than 2200 standing ancient temples rise from the green plains.

Cities in Asia

If New York is the city that never sleeps, then Tokyo is the city that never unplugs. Bright lights, 24-hour dining opportunities, crazy experiences and colourful characters are absolutely everywhere.

If you love food, head to Kuala Lumpur (affectionately known as KL), where many of the best epicurean experiences in Malaysia – from hawker stalls to high-end restaurants – are ready to be digested.

Seoul has a remarkable cityscape of ancient World Heritage-listed architecture and sparkling skyscrapers, an innovative tech-obsessed culture, amazing cuisine and fabulous street food (hello Korean BBQ), bustling markets, an energetic nightlife and kooky K-Pop culture.

Bustling Beijing will knock your socks off. Areas such as Simatai or Jinshanling are not visited as much and therefore have fewer tourists. Also, the Huanghuacheng area is a particularly scenic area of the wall that can be seen by boat.

Ho Chi Minh City is a frenetic destination of contrasts: bustling alleyways, sleek skyscrapers, tasty street food, first-class dining venues, French Colonial architecture and reminders of the harrowing American War.

Situated on the banks of the Red River, Hanoi is Vietnam’s second largest city and capital. In its heart, the centuries-old Old Quarter is a cultural hotspot.

With 101-hectare waterfront park Gardens by the Bay, Singapore is a picturesque city. Try something different and go to Singapore Zoo in the morning for ‘Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife’, where you’ll eat your brekky with orangutans.

Kyoto delivers Buddhist temples, ancient wooden houses, zen rock gardens and geishas, all nestled within the confines of the neighbouring mountains.

Bangkok’s night markets are the stuff of legends (don’t miss the street food), and Hong Kong is one of the most hyper-lit and compelling cities in the world.

The metropolis of Shanghai is a fascinating city to survey from afar; all those flashing lights and sharp-edged skyscrapers each trying to be taller than the last – but hit the streets (face mask optional) and you will find a modern city thriving on change but still retaining its soul.

Last but not least – from garish to gritty, historic to heart-wrenching, Mumbai will take your breath away with its frenetic energy.

Animal experiences in Asia

Ethical encounters with endangered Asian elephants – where you observe and possibly interact with them but refrain from riding – can be a highlight of visiting this part of the world. Just make sure to do your research when choosing an elephant encounter.

India has some of the richest biodiversity in the world, and the array of animals that call this country home is breathtaking. There are about 400 species of mammals, 1250 birds, 460 reptiles, 240 amphibians and 2550 fish – among the highest species count for any country.

Take a wildlife-watching excursion to one of India’s famous national parks such as Ranthambore, Pench, Kanha or Bandhavgarh. Tigers, elephants, rhinos and eagles are among the animals you might glimpse.

Borneo is also bursting with beautiful wildlife that will take your breath away. Animal lovers will delight in meeting orphaned orang-utans during feeding time at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you can’t help but feel intimately connected to these magnificent creatures.

You can also get up close and personal with giant pandas in China .

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What to eat in Asia

Prepare to take your palette on an adventure because Asia has some of the most incredible flavours in the world.

Japan is renowned for its unique cuisine with each region having its own delicacies and seasonal recipes.

From a tempting tempura bar in an old Kyoto geisha district to bustling markets and barbecue joints in the ‘nation’s kitchen’, Osaka, the food options in Japan will make your mind boggle.

From tummy-filling Pad Thai noodles to the spicy Tom Yum soup, Thai cuisine is globally popular for a reason. Sweet tooths aren’t left out either with mango sticky rice being one of the country’s most popular desserts. Check out our list of six tasty Thai dishes to tuck into for a bit of culinary inspiration.

Food is a big deal in Malaysia, from the durian that locals love to eat despite its pungent odour (it is not unheard of to see the fruit dangling out of the window of a car because it’s too stinky to be inside) to the hot noodle dish char kway teow, the essential ingredient of which is a slightly burnt, smoky flavour known as the breath of the wok.

Sure, there may be a few things here that might challenge your palette (chicken’s feet, anyone?) but there are so many delicious Chinese flavours that you just have to dive in and hope for the best. This is where you will eat incredible dumplings, perfectly steamed fish with fresh ginger, deliciously tender duck, spicy Szechuan noodles and crispy greens drowned in oyster sauce. The food is one of China’s biggest drawcards. No doubt about it.

The thick creamy curries of the north. The super spicy tang of dishes in the south. This is a country that takes its food very seriously, so immersing yourself in these great culinary styles is a superb travel experience.

It’s also a great option for vegetarian travellers, due to the large proportion of Hindus who are vegetarian. There are plenty of cooking courses available if you want to learn the skills yourself, so you can take the heady flavours back home with you.

Vietnamese food is without a doubt a global food phenomenon. This is largely due its fascinating geopolitical history; which has seen empires, colonisation and revolutions each make their mark on the country’s cuisine.

For this reason, you can’t help but get a taste of the country’s complexity in every single dish. Here a noodle soup is never just a noodle soup, with every city having its own unique role to play in the country’s history. And thus, its flavours. We have a great guide to dining in Vietnam to help you plan your meals.

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The great thing about Asia is there really is something for every budget. From camping on the beach and sharing high-vibe hostels in Tokyo to splurging on a five-star hotel in the city or a luxury villa on the beach, the options are almost endless.

Backpacking

The fact that Asia has long been a cheap and cheerful destination for many a backpacker has meant there are some excellent hostel options. They really have come a long way since the ‘90s. And it’s not just an option for the youth – increasingly the young at heart are finding hostels are a great place to meet travellers and make friends.

The new capsule hotels are also a great choice for people travelling on a budget.

Luxury resorts

Thanks to all that beautiful coastline and all those beautiful islands, this really is the home of the luxury resort. From the mountains of Ubud in Bali to the islands of the Maldives, Thailand and Malaysia, the number of luxury resorts in this part of the world is remarkable.

Some of our favourites include Oberoi Vanyavilas in India, The Seminyak Beach Resort and Spa in Bali, Vana Belle in Koh Samui, Song Saa Private Island in Cambodia, Dedon Island Resort in the Philippines, and Fusion Maia in Vietnam. Also check out our guide to romantic accommodation options in the Maldives and Phuket’s top five remote resorts.

If you’re staying in one of the bigger cities such as Hong Kong, Shanghai or Kuala Lumpur a hotel might be your best option. There’s a huge range, from the big chain five-star hotels to more boutique offerings.

Favourites include the Ritz-Carlton in Hong Kong, The Warehouse in Singapore , Hotel Majestic in KL , The Peninsula in Shanghai, Sofitel Legend Metropole in Hanoi, and The Park Hyatt in Seoul.

In Bangkok stay at Conrad Bangkok for views of the urban sprawl; at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sukhumvit Bangkok to be in shopping nirvana; at Millennium Hilton Bangkok to experience life on the banks of the Chao Phraya River; and in 2018, go luxe at the Waldorf Astoria Bangkok.

Famous for good Japanese food and drink, relaxation and their hot spas, a stay at a traditional ryokan is an authentic Japanese experience not to be missed. We have a comprehensive guide on finding the ultimate ryokan for your Japan escape and another guide on observing ryokan etiquette .

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17 things you need to know before visiting Thailand

Sep 4, 2024 • 7 min read

Thailand is one of the easiest places to travel in Asia, but there are some top tips that first-time visitors should know. Mongkolchon Akesin/Shutterstock

Thailand has a deserved reputation as one of the easiest places to travel in Asia. There’s an amazing amount to see , hassles are limited, English-language signs and menus are commonplace, and you can get around easily at almost any time of day or night. 

However, there are a few things every traveler should know. Here are our top tips for making the most of your trip. 

1. Rainy season varies by geography

The June to October rainy season brings heavy showers and regular storms to northern, central and southwestern Thailand, which creates dangerous conditions for travel by sea. The southeast coast and the Gulf of Thailand get soaked slightly later, from October to December. If you do visit at this time, you'll definitely want to pack some kind of wet weather gear.

Rainy-season travel means lower prices and smaller crowds, but some accommodations close and many island ferries stop running, including services to the Tarutao archipelago .

2. Get the recommended vaccinations

Most doctors recommend getting vaccinations against tetanus and hepatitis A. Also consider a rabies shot – dogs, cats and monkeys can all carry the viral disease. Malaria is present along the borders with Laos , Cambodia , Myanmar and Malaysia . If you visit these regions, you can use anti-malarial prophylaxis such as atovaquone/proguanil or doxycycline (or do your best not to get bitten by a mosquito). 

3. Book must-do activities before you go

If you have your heart set on a particular boat journey, train trip, trek, tour or boutique stay, book ahead for the busy tourist season from November to March or during any religious holiday.

During the rainy season, call or email ahead to check if places are actually open.

4. Know the etiquette when greeting people

When meeting locals in Thailand, the standard greeting is the wai – a respectful dip of the head with the hands held palms together in front of the chest. Don’t shake hands unless the other person initiates the handshake. If you get invited into a Thai home, remove your shoes before you enter and avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards another person. 

5. Be respectful of Buddhism

Some 95% of Thais are Buddhist, and the national religion weaves through every aspect of life. To show proper respect, remove footwear before entering any Buddhist structure, and wear clothing that covers the shoulders, upper arms and upper legs. 

Never point the soles of your feet towards any Buddhist image (or monk), and don’t touch Buddha statues on the head. Give way to monks when walking on footpaths, and don’t sit next to them on public transport. It is also taboo for a woman to touch a monk or their belongings.

6. Dress modestly

Thai women and men usually avoid revealing outfits that show off a lot of skin. Swimsuits are fine for the beach, but away from the sand, throw on a sarong or fisher's pants, plus something that covers the shoulders if you visit religious sites. Topless or nude sunbathing is frowned upon and can attract unwanted attention.

7. Never disrespect the king or royal family

The Thais take respect for the monarchy extremely seriously, and lèse-majesté (maligning the royal family) is a criminal offense. Never show disrespect towards the monarch or depictions of the royal family (including on money). 

8. What to expect at meal time

When dining out in Thailand, everything tends to arrive on the table at the same time, usually placed in the middle of the table for everyone to share. Thailand abandoned chopsticks in the 19th century. You’ll get a spoon and fork but no knife – but most dishes come as bite-sized morsels, so you won’t need one. Sticky rice is usually bundled up into balls and eaten with the fingers. 

9. Vegetarian is a relative term in Thailand 

Fish sauce, oyster sauce and egg are widely used as cooking ingredients in Thailand. The safest bet for people who don't eat fish or meat is to seek out Indian-owned vegetarian restaurants, or restaurants serving kin jay Buddhist cuisine. If in doubt, ask the person making the food if it is jay  – the term ​​ mang sà wí rát just means food that doesn’t contain pieces of meat or fish but doesn't mean it's necessarily suitable for vegetarians. 

10. Health risks: stomach bugs, mosquito bites and rabies

The most common trouble travelers face in Thailand is trip-spoiling stomach bugs. Never drink tap water, wash your hands before eating, stick to busy eating establishments and be cautious of ice, unwashed or unpeeled fruit and uncooked vegetables. If you become unwell, seek out private hospitals in larger cities rather than public hospitals.

Mosquito bites can easily become infected in Thailand’s tropical climate. Bring mosquito repellent, and use mosquito nets (or bring your own). Rabies is another risk – always seek medical attention if you are bitten by a dog, cat or monkey. 

11. Steer clear of drugs in Thailand 

In June 2022,  marijuana and hemp were removed from the Category 5 narcotics list in Thailand. However, there are still restrictions and smoking marijuana in public is not recommended.

Crossing borders with Class A drugs carries the death penalty, and even the possession of small quantities can bring a hefty prison sentence – it’s really not worth the risk. Also note that smoking in public can attract heavy fines.

If you take any prescription medicines, check that these are allowed into Thailand before you travel. 

12. Prices may well be inflated for tourists

In general, Thailand is hassle-free, but tourists are often charged inflated prices for tuk-tuks and unmetered taxi rides – ask a local how much journeys should cost and use that as a yardstick for a fair fare. 

Major tourist sites are popular stalking grounds for cab drivers and touts who will try to steer you towards dubious souvenir shops, fake "tourist offices" and second-rate places to stay, where you’ll inevitably pay more to cover their commission. Book transport directly with the operators to avoid dodgy deals from unscrupulous travel agents.

13. You may be approached by sex workers

Thailand’s sex industry may find you whether you want it to or not. Single male travelers (and even couples) can expect to be approached by sex workers or touts drumming up business, so be ready with a firm refusal. 

Be aware that some bars, restaurants and karaoke venues are fronts for sex work – warning signs include red or pink strip lights, large numbers of skimpily dressed female staff and lots of foreign male customers.

14. Political protests are best avoided 

Thailand can have a lot of protests. When tensions flare up between the government and opposition groups, it can lead to blockades, flight cancellations and sometimes violence.

Monitor local news sites such as the Nation for information on simmering political troubles, and avoid protests and other potential flash points.

15. Heed government warnings about travel in Thailand’s south 

The far south of Thailand, along the Malaysian border, has been wracked by a separatist insurgency since the 1940s. Most foreign governments advise against travel to the districts of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and parts of Songkhla.  

16. Make sure you're insured to ride that scooter

Thousands of travelers rent a scooter or motorcycle in Thailand, but make sure your home driving license covers you for any vehicle you hire, and carry your passport (or a copy of the ID pages) in case the police ask for it.

Wear a helmet, ride cautiously and make sure the rental comes with liability insurance – every year, hundreds of tourists are injured in motorcycle and scooter accidents in Thailand. Always give way to larger vehicles, and watch out for livestock, potholes and other hazards on the road. 

17. Follow local advice if there's a natural disaster

Thailand is vulnerable to earthquakes and tsunamis, as well as flooding, landslides and cyclones during the rainy season. Heed official advice in the event of a natural disaster, and contact your embassy for up-to-the-minute information on evacuation procedures. 

This article was first published Jan 26, 2022 and updated Sep 4, 2024.

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How to plan a perfect trip to Asia – tips for your first Asia vacation & how to choose the best travel itinerary

One of the cheapest and the most colourful destinations for travellers – Southeast Asia is a dream come true. Make sure that you plan a trip to Asia properly, choose the backpacking route well and craft the best travel itinerary, avoiding any problems. How? Check below!

If you follow my social media platforms ( and if you don’t, better start now ;) Facebook , Instagram , Twitter ), you probably know, that I just came back from an epic trip to Asia. It wasn’t my first trip to that region – I’ve previously been to the Philippines, India, Malaysia and Russia, but this time I’ve visited two new countries – Indonesia and Singapore . My trip began with a traditional wedding in India near Bangalore, followed by visiting stunning Singapore skyscrapers, travelling through the Bali jungle, swimming with turtles in Gili islands and climbing volcanoes of East Java .

Independent travel is what I love the most and what gives me the biggest satisfaction from my trips. But how to make it right? How to plan a dream trip to Asia and make sure that everything works out well?

If you’re travelling soon, check my travel resources page , where I share my favourite travel websites and companies to book trips on a budget.

How to plan a perfect trip to Asia?

#1 pick the best time.

If you work full time, as I do, you probably need to book time off in advance. Check when you can take it and based on that choose your destination. Not having enough vacation days? Have a look here for some tips on how to travel more, even with a full-time job!

For me, the time was already decided, as I was going for my friend’s wedding in India. Based on that, I chose my further destinations.

#2 Choose the travel itinerary

Some parts of the world are simply impossible or very inconvenient to be visited at particular times of the year. Might it be a monsoon season, hurricanes, freezing cold or dreadful heat. You want to avoid that, so choose wisely and do the research!

For travelling on a budget, you need to make sure that you can get to the specific location at a reasonable price. This might get more complicated if you’re combining several countries and flying between the destinations. However, research pays off. For my trip to Asia, I searched through several flight booking sites, to find the cheapest prices for the best destinations. Kiwi.com is a very helpful one, as it allows you to search based on the radius around the location and the departure airport. Make sure to check at least a few flight search engines. Some other helpful ones are Expedia  and Kayak.  For the full list  click here .

Based on that, I looked at different vacation destinations in Asia. Alex and I wanted to find the best places to visit in Southeast Asia, but not overly crowded and with a (cheap!) flight connection from India. We checked places like Vietnam, Cambodia, Nepal, Malaysia or less known the Andaman Islands. Taking everything into consideration, we finally decided on Indonesia – a country, that I’ve always wanted to visit. Since the flights from India to Indonesia usually go through Singapore, I added it to my itinerary and made my layover longer, by fitting a day to walk around the city.

#3 Do the research or just wing it

I’m a “planner” and always want to know what is worth visiting in a particular location. I don’t want to miss out and I also prefer to avoid crowded or overly touristy places. This, together with some reading about the history of the country gives me a good background for deciding on which places I want to visit and which to skip. I base my research on the destination travel blogs, where the bloggers are always helpful to answer questions or I use the good travel guidebooks .

However, I often leave the plan open for changes to be able to adjust it if needed. I normally don’t even book accommodation, as I know that it’s very easy to find cheap and good hostels in Southeast Asia on the go. This gives me the flexibility in case my plans change. The more you travel, the easier it will be for you to act spontaneously on your trip.

For your first Asia vacation: 

• make a plan with the travel itinerary based on your research
• book the first hotel night after arrival
• add some more places to the list, in case you change your mind or can’t get to the ones from the original plan and then make final decisions while you are there
• talk to locals and talk to other travellers – they are a great source of information and have it all updated, which is much more helpful than scrolling through the old posts on the Internet

#4 Plan the travel route

• Less is more – cut out

Many of us, I included, have a FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) syndrome. We want to be everywhere, see and do everything. Unfortunately, with a limited time it’s not possible, so you need to rule some things out. Focus on what you really want to see when planning your Asia travel route and keep other places as a possibility in case of change of plans.

• Add an extra day

Travelling in Asia can be unpredictable. There are massive delays on the local airlines, buses leave only when full, which involves several hours of waiting. There can be floods, earthquakes or volcano eruptions (almost happened to us!), that can slow you down. Therefore, add one or two days, just in case. This will also allow you to take things a bit slower and enjoy it more, not stressing out if you’re going to make it for the flight.

• Don’t double back

Plan your Asia travel route in a way, that you don’t come back to the same location. Take different paths, which allows you to see more. In some cases, this might be difficult, but try to avoid it as much as you can.

#5 Be flexible

It’s good to plan a trip to Asia properly, with a scheduled plan and treat it as a base and a direction to follow. However, at the same time, leave yourself space for changes. Maybe you’ll fall in love with one particular place and would want to stay there longer? Or you meet great people and follow their travel plans, instead of yours? Or get invited to the traditional ceremony by the locals, that you just can’t miss? The world is full of opportunities and missing one stop on your itinerary doesn’t mean that you’re missing out – just often the opposite!

#6 Get ready for the unexpected

As often as we like to think that “those things only happen to others, not me”, life is unpredictable and everything can happen.

When we were planning our trip to Indonesia, days before the departure the media boomed with the news of  the high risk of the volcano eruption . The volcano happened to be in Bali , which was our first stop. The whole area around the mountain, that we planned to go to, was closed and we needed to change our plans last minute. We also had to be prepared in case of an eruption and know what to do for the emergency. Luckily, nothing happened (and hopefully won’t happen), but better be safe than sorry!

Last, but not least – it’s your holidays, that you worked hard for, so don’t worry too much about ticking places off the list, just go with a flow and enjoy yourself. The more you travel, the easier it will be to let it go, learn about the places from the locals and other travellers. Remember – enjoy every minute of it!

Where is your next trip to Asia to? What are your tips to plan a perfect trip to Asia? Let me know in the comments!

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22 thoughts on “ How to plan a perfect trip to Asia – tips for your first Asia vacation & how to choose the best travel itinerary ”

I’m Vietnamese, but have not been back to visit. Will have to refer to this when we plan our trip.

I hope you’ll manage to visit soon :)

Great post, I’m currently living in Thailand and love it! I remember how crazy and scary my first solo visit was, your tips are really good and I wish I had them back then! Lovely pictures!

Thanks! Wow, this must be amazing to live there :) You’re definitely an Asia expert now then! :)

Can not wait for another trip to Asia <3 It was such a wonderful thing to explore it!

I just came back and can’t wait to go again!

I completely agree that traveling in Asia, and anywhere for that matter, can be completely unpredictable. I’m currently on my third long term backpacking trip in Asia and despite planning there are always bumps in the road – although it does add to the adventure of course. I was actually in Bali myself when the volcano was set to erupt, however luckily it didn’t affect my plans. Thanks for sharing!

That’s very true! We’ll see what happens with the volcano, hopefully, it’s all fine. Thanks for your comment :)

These are very useful travel tips for travelling anywhere in the world! We are backpacking now through central America and I am really learning to just go with the flow and finding joy in all the crazy, unpredictable things that happen. Thanks for your share!

You are very right :) It’s important to remember about those things during travels in any place in the world. Enjoy your trip!

I’ve only been to big cities in Asia so far; Shanghai and Tokyo. Yet to venture into the South-East. I’ve travelled a fair bit over the world but I’m still a bit of a control freak and like an itinerary lol.

A good itinerary is a great help, but it’s also nice sometimes to go with a flow:) Good luck in your future travels!

From your post, i learn that,with good planning, you achieve better result and always make the plan flexible. Nice post.

Thanks! I hope it was helpful!

I agree with all you wrote here, and even though I sometimes still have a little FOMO, I`ve been trying to embrace slow travel and my last trips were really good! I think what you wrote is useful not only when planning a trip to Asia, your recommendations can be applied to other trips as well. Didn`t know kiwi, definitely going to try it!

Thanks for your comment, Vick! Slow travel would be amazing, but I’m still in need of more time ;) Hopefully, one day! Good luck in your travels!

I broadly agree with the points that you raise. In fact, I think that they could be applied to vacation planning in general. In particular, I thinks it’s a good idea to do a lot of research, but then to leave the itinerary open to change. Local advice often beats the guidebook. Hands down!

Thank you, Gearoid! I couldn’t agree more, that the local advise often beats the guidebooks, however, sometimes you also need to take it with a pinch of salt and filter through :D

I’m planning a three week trip to Asia in 2022 to celebrate my 70th birthday. Not planning to backpack but would like to a week in three locations via intra flights from one to the next. Would love suggestions on three great places to visit. Considering China, Thailand, Vietnam.

Hi! That sounds great, but only a week split in 3 countries is a bit short, unless you mean a week in each of them, then it makes more sense :) There is a lot to see in all of them – so it depends on how much sight-seeing you want to do and what exactly you’re interested in – nature, cities, culture, food. I’d say Thailand is more touristy than Vietnam and China is obviously huge, so you would need to decide on a small part of it. You would also need to check the visas needed for each of the countries. Good luck!

Asia has a wide range of tour spot when it comes to Asia, India is one of the best countries one can visit and explore some many histories with a lots of amazing facts India is a budgeted country you can spend money and satisfy your needs you can visit India just to see how colorful it is and it is the country of joy!thanks for the tips the article is helpful.

Glad you like it! I also have some more articles about India: Bangalore Belur and Halebid temples

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Our 9 Best Asia Itineraries for First-Timers

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Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam

Epic wildlife, classic culture, and dramatic wilderness that features the highest mountain range in the world or the pristine white-sand beaches of a tropical paradise are only a few of the ways you can experience Asia’s marvels with these nine Asia itineraries for first-timers.

Whether interested in visiting architectural marvels that span centuries, eager to view the season’s changing leaves, panoramic views over rice paddy terraces, or hidden temples and floating karsts, Asia brims with ancient culture, fascinating heritage, and ineffable beauty.

The best Asia itinerary offers timeless experiences in this compelling region of the world and depends on your interests and goals when exploring our sample itineraries for first-timers.

1. 9-Day Culinary and Cultural Heritage Tour of India

2. beauty of fall foliage: 16 day luxury tour of japan, 3. amazing vietnam vacation: karst islands to imperial citadels, 4. tantalizing thailand: bangkok, chiang mai, krabi tour, 5. thailand and cambodia essential experiences tour, 6. romance in tropical sri lanka and the maldives, 7. best of india and nepal vacation, 8. active 3-week adventure of cambodia, vietnam, laos, and thailand's cultural highlights, 9. rejuvenating tropical getaway vacation to bali, plan your asia itinerary for first-timers with a travel specialist.

Traditional chicken tikka masala curry dish

Length: 9 days

Places Visited: New Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Varanasi

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

India is a whirlwind of color and history, where culture builds on millennia of history experienced in the hidden temples, magnificent monuments, and aromatic spices you can find during your   9-Day Culinary and Cultural Heritage Tour of India .

From the vibrant streets of Delhi to the iconic bulbous domes of the Taj Mahal, the pink tint of the architecture in Jaipur to the symbolic shapes and hues of henna explored during a private class, India embraces its uniqueness by celebrating authentic tastes and magnificent traditions that welcome you as a familiar friend.

Learn more: India Tours & Vacations • India Travel Guide

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Heian Shrine garden in Kyoto, Japan

Length: 16 days

Places Visited: Osaka, Kanazawa, Naoshima, Kyoto, Kagoshima, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Tokyo

This Beauty of Fall Foliage: 16 Day Luxury Tour of Japan highlights the scenery in the fall as it sings with color. The leaves change, turning the landscape into a painter’s palette surrounding traditional temples and decorating serene parks.

Unique architectural designs sprout from the foliage, bringing the past to life in the form of castles and monasteries, while modern architecture embraces artistic form celebrated on a remote island. Whether interested in viewing geishas walking across idyllic bridges or interested in the flavors of a traditional market, Japan’s beauty becomes accessible and immersive.

Learn more: Japan Tours & Vacations • Japan Travel Guide

Red junk boat sailing in Ha Long Bay in Vietnam

Length: 8 days

Places Visited: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Mekong Delta

Vietnam can feel like a completely different world, where the landscape takes on majestic charms featured in the eight-day Amazing Vietnam Vacation: Karst Islands to Imperial Citadels . Cruise through the idyllic waters of Ha Long Bay, weaving between soaring granite towers, or wander beneath the crumbling grandeur of the powerful Nguyen Dynasty.

Connect with celebrated local chefs and taste their magnetic flavors or zigzag along Hai Van Pass for illustrious views as you soak in the spectacle of Vietnam's scenery, while experiencing welcoming traditions.

Learn more: Vietnam Tours & Vacations • Vietnam Travel Guide

Pagoda at Wat Arun in Bangkok Thailand

Length: 11 days

Places Visited: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi Town, Koh Phi Phi

This 11-day Tantalizing Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi Tour offers a combination of rich culture and captivating scenery, turning Thailand into an unimaginable adventure.

Grand palaces, surprising canals, marvelous mountain panoramas, and distinctive local tribes provide a window into the memorable connections you can make as you explore forested trails or learn the art of traditional dishes.

With white-sand beaches, fabulous temple complexes, and crystal-clear water, Thailand is a treasure chest of endless opportunities.

Learn more: Thailand Tours & Vacations • Thailand Travel Guide

Head of Buddha statue in the tree roots at Wat Mahathat Temple, Ayutthaya, Thailand

Length: 15 days

Places Visited: Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Siem Reap

Family-friendly and endlessly exciting, the 15-day Thailand and Cambodia Essential Experiences Tour can feel like an immersion into luxurious exploration. Sail along the Andaman Sea for fabulous views of tropical islands.

Embrace the spiritual ambiance of the Royal Palace complex in Bangkok, witness the masterful motifs and images of Buddha decorating the Angkor Temples, and visit a traditional floating village rising above the quiet waters of Tonle Sap Lake.

The combination of delicious cuisine, fascinating history, local customs, and graceful demonstrations of culture reveal excitement the entire family can enjoy.

Learn more: Thailand & Cambodia Tours • Cambodia Travel Guide

Couple in the Maldives

Length: 14 days

Places Visited: Thirappane, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Kandy, Hatton, Galle, Bentota, Colombo, Laamu Atoll

Romance in Tropical Sri Lanka and The Maldives is an incredible immersion into distinct tropical paradises. Gorgeous beachside resorts, the marvels of mountainous vistas, and the allure of clear waters offer the perfect getaway to island bliss.

Visit cherished ancient temples, explore grand ancient ruins, indulge in aromatic spices, and embrace the elegance of a stunning seascape. Soak in the tranquil ambiance as you find passion and romance across the tropical islands of Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Learn more: Maldives Vacations & Tour Packages • Maldives Travel Guide

Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal

Length: 17 days

Places Visited: Delhi, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Jaipur, Sawarda, Kathmandu, Kurintar, Chitwan National Park, Pokhara

Heritage and history intertwine during this 17-day Best of India and Nepal Vacation . The wonder of the region spreads from the Taj Mahal to the rugged peaks of the Himalayas, the stunning remains of a Mughal empire to the staggering collection of Buddhist temples.

Find new ways to search for thrilling wildlife and its connection to local culture, indulge in the expansive views of the world’s tallest mountain range, and witness the combined beauty of golden desert and pink architectural walls as you uncover the collective charisma of India and Nepal.

Learn more: Nepal & India Tours • Nepal Tours & Vacations

Kuang Si waterfall in Luang Prabang, Laos

Length: 21 days

Places Visited: Siem Reap, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Lan Ha Bay, Luang Prabang, Pakbeng, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai

Active 3-Week Adventure of Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand's Cultural Highlights provides visitors with ample opportunities to discover the limitless treasures of Southeast Asia. Capture the fascinating artwork and robust culinary traditions, the sensational scenery and inspiring history that will take you beyond Hanoi and Bangkok, Phnom Penh and Vientiane.

Weave between impressive karsts, glide down the Bon River, cycle to ancient temple complexes, sample the customary flavors of local cuisine, and enjoy the forested wilderness for a joyful perspective of the past, present, and future.

Learn more: Southeast Asia Tours & Vacations • Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Luxury tropical resort in Bali, Indonesia

Places Visited: Nusa Dua, Ubud, Gili Islands, Bali Island

Bali is a serene gateway, perfect for recharging your mind and spirit during this eight-day Rejuvenating Tropical Getaway Vacation to Bali . The island is often referred to as a paradise, with ample opportunities to slow down and enjoy the aromas of wild frangipani and listen to the sounds of crashing waves, or embrace the connection to the island’s vibrant Hindu traditions.

Explore fascinating temples, witness the famous scenery, and find revitalization in a mixture of calming spiritual waters and traditional island flavors. Snorkel, learn customary farming techniques, or bask in the tranquility of the mountains for the perfect tropical escape.

Learn more: Bali Vacations & Tours • Bali Travel Guide

The Munduk waterfall in Bali, Indonesia

Natural wonder, precious historical architecture, and participating in age-old traditions add to the allure of an Asia travel itinerary.

From trekking through the Himalayas in Nepal to viewing the Taj Mahal in India, wandering the bridges of Kyoto in Japan to viewing the temples of Angkor in Cambodia, each country displays its own treasured past and contemporary charm.

Find more ideas on how you can explore the scenery, embrace new customs, and experience the culture of a new country with more sample Asia tour packages & vacations . You can also discover new ideas on where to go, what to do, and more with our Asia travel guide .

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12 tips for your first trip to Southeast Asia

Editor's note: The team at The Points Guy loves to travel, but now is not the time for unnecessary trips. Health officials note that the fastest way to return to normalcy is to stop coming in contact with others. That includes ceasing travel. We are publishing travel deals and destination content because we should all use this time to think about and plan our next adventures. TPG doesn't advise booking trips for travel until summer or fall — and even then be mindful of cancellation policies. This story has been updated with new information.

Southeast Asia is one of the most magical regions on earth. Filled with stunning beaches , historic temples, verdant jungles and bustling cities, there's something for every traveler there. But staying healthy and safe is something to consider when visiting a region so different from your own, especially for the first time. Things like visa requirements , best times to visit, currency exchange and what to bring may be at the top of your mind, as well as the most obvious question -- which country should you visit?

After a number of long-term visits over the years to varying countries in Southeast Asia, I've learned a thing or two. Beginner travelers should check out these travel tips and follow this Southeast Asia travel advice when considering a visit to the region for the first time.

1. Pick your countries wisely

While it's tempting to visit many countries and cities on a single trip to Southeast Asia, it's worth taking it slow and digging into the culture of a single country and/or just a handful of places, rather than exhausting yourself with a travel itinerary that has you hopping all over what amounts to an enormous territory.

For example, Bali , Indonesia and Hanoi, Vietnam , are both set within Southeast Asia, but beware -- they're a seven-hour flight away from each other. Before you commit to flights and accommodation , pull out the map and choose countries/cities that are relatively close together or are easily accessible by nonstop flights or direct trains.

When deciding on the best country to visit in Southeast Asia, you should also take into account whether you want to explore cities, relax on beaches, see the outdoors or embrace culture, cuisine and history.

The best country to visit for beginner travelers could be Thailand. First-time visitors to the region may also enjoy Bali, Indonesia. Both of these spots are used to an influx of tourists and have plenty of amenities. They're both relatively easy to navigate and have friendly locals that speak English.

More experienced travelers or those wanting an adventure may prefer spots like Myanmar, Malaysia or Laos. While almost all Southeast Asia destinations welcome backpackers with open arms, Cambodia is very backpacker-friendly -- and is extremely affordable, especially outside of tourist destination Angkor Wat. Those wanting to lap a country from top to bottom should head to Vietnam. For unexplored beaches, visit more off-the-beaten-path islands in Indonesia (that aren't Bali) or the Philippines .

Related: 9 of the best sustainable backpacks for travelers

2. Check visa requirements

Several Southeast Asian countries require your passport to have at least six months' worth of validity left or a specific number of empty pages -- and visa requirements seem to be constantly changing. For example, a few years ago, e-visas weren't available online for several entrance points in Myanmar, but now they are. Meanwhile, Vietnam has changed its visa requirements in past years and now citizens from several European countries no longer need a visa to enter.

Check visa requirements ahead of time and apply online if possible. For example, U.K. nationals will find that applying for a visa to enter Laos online is relatively straightforward and can ease hassle upon arrival, especially when you're jet-lagged in a new and unfamiliar country.

If you do end up needing a visa upon arrival at your chosen destination(s), be prepared with the proper currency and passport-size photos of yourself. Many airport visa offices have ATMs/exchange services (albeit with terrible rates) and photo booths, but if you arrive with these items in hand, as well as any forms you might need printed and filled out ahead of time, the visa experience will be quicker and easier.

Also, be sure to grab a couple of extra entrance and exit forms each time you enter a country -- if you end up leaving and reentering that country by bus, boat or train, having the correct forms handy will enable you to save time you'd otherwise spend in a line.

3. Pack light and right

Deciding what to bring to Southeast Asia is a common conundrum. Try to pack as light as possible and do laundry wherever you go rather than trekking around with an overweight backpack or heavy trolley bag. In most Southeast Asian countries, you can get your clothes washed, dried and ironed in under 24 hours for the equivalent of a couple of dollars, and at street markets, you can shop inexpensively for any extra clothes and toiletries you may need.

These are the things you should make sure to pack:

• raincoat/umbrella (especially during rainy season)
• modest clothing covering knees/shoulders for temple visits
• first aid kit (including all kinds of stomach medicines)
• small flashlight
• earplugs/ sleepmask
• hand sanitizer
• travel packs of tissues (note that squat toilets usually aren't equipped with toilet paper)
• adaptor/multi-port plug that allows you to charge a few of your electronics at once

Related reading: 14 packing hacks for traveling with just a carry-on

4. Best times to visit Southeast Asia: rainy or dry season?

You can organize your trip in one of two ways: picking a destination(s) first and then selecting the best time to go, or picking your destination(s) based on what will have the best weather during the time you're able to visit. Most countries in Southeast Asia have two main seasons: wet and dry.

Even certain regions within countries can have separate rainy seasons . For example, if you want to have a beach holiday in Thailand over Christmas, it's better to choose islands in the Andaman Sea, which are sunny, like Koh Lanta or Koh Yao Yai and skip the Gulf of Thailand islands, such as Koh Samui or Koh Tao, where it's rainy season.

If you're visiting larger cities, rainy season may not be so bad. You'll experience a downpour or two for sure, but you may get cheaper hotel deals or better value on airfare. But, it may be best to avoid smaller towns or villages during the wet season where lack of infrastructure during floods may complicate your stay.

It's also important to consider additional seasonal situations -- like burning season, where many Southeast Asian regions burn brush and old crops to prepare for planting. Air quality is bad during this time and may affect tourists, especially those with respiratory problems.

5. Safeguard your health

Before you travel to individual countries, check their vaccine requirements and recommendations -- and then actually get those vaccinations. If you're worried about the expense, be aware that you can opt to get your vaccinations upon arrival in Bangkok , where they're often affordable at local health centers. When traveling to any Southeast Asian country, getting tetanus shots and typhoid vaccines are generally a good idea. In addition to any necessary vaccines, seek out strong mosquito repellent, as this can help protect you from dengue fever and malaria.

6. Get travel insurance

Plan to get travel insurance when visiting the region, because health risks in Southeast Asia don't entirely diminish even if you've had your vaccines. As Southeast Asia trips often include adventures like indulging in street food, zip-lining, scuba diving , jungle treks and motorcycle rentals, it's wise to have a policy in place.

During a previous trip to Thailand, I developed an ear infection from snorkeling . Thanks to my travel insurance, I was in and out of a doctor's office within an hour, complete with medicine and a special souvenir bag (see above) -- all covered by my policy. Years ago in Malaysia, my husband cut his foot on coral while diving and required antibiotics. Having travel insurance made the situation an easy (and free) fix. Insurance policies can also cover non-health-related problems such as lost luggage or issues with flights and hotels, so look into getting the best travel insurance policy for you.

7. Consider alternate travel methods

While we love a good points and miles deal, using trains, low-cost airlines and ferries is a great way to save money while moving from place to place. Buses are generally the cheapest method of transport in Southeast Asian countries, but be aware of travel scams and know that you might be in for dirt, dust, unpleasant (or simply strange) smells, crowds, bumpy roads and more.

Ferries can sometimes be crowded, but are a quick, cheap and a direct form of travel between islands, and though often slow, trains are a fun way to explore and see the lay of the land(s). Low-cost carriers such as AirAsia, Bangkok Airways , Nok Air, Tiger Air and more offer cheap flights to a variety of destinations -- and some even have frequent flyer programs . Though often a splurge in comparison to bare-bones taxi-boat journeys, river cruises are luxurious, scenic adventures and a great mode of transportation.

8. Rent a scooter at your own risk

If I had a dollar for every 20-something I saw with a bandaged knee, chin or foot in Thailand, I would easily be rich. Renting scooters can be a great way to get around, but in some Southeast Asian countries you'll need to drive on a different side of the road you're accustomed to and you may have to battle intense traffic, hills, curves, stray dogs, dirt or sand roads, crazy taxi drivers -- and worst of all, other foreigners driving scooters who are unfamiliar with these conditions. Even though many locals and tourists don't wear helmets, you still should.

Before you head off with a rental scooter, be sure that your rental agent sees you taking detailed photos and/or videos of the bike, and actively point out any scratches or concerns to them. Though scooter rentals are often just a few dollars per day upfront, scooter scams are common, where a rental agent will insist that you've scratched or otherwise damaged their motorbike, charging you hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars in damages before they'll return your passport to you.

9. Be smart about currency exchange

Airports and banks often charge excessive fees to exchange money, but you'll usually get a decent exchange rate if you wait to change money once you're in Southeast Asia. However, know that Southeast Asian hotels generally offer terrible exchange rates, so stick to banks or other spots that advertise "Money Exchange." Make sure to change plenty of cash, as street market vendors, taxi drivers and smaller restaurants may not take credit/debit cards.

Many hotels and larger restaurants will take credit/debit cards though, so make sure to use ones that hold no foreign transaction fees.

10. Avoid "temple burnout"

"Temple burnout" happens when you see so many ornate and beautiful temples that they all begin to look the same -- and you lose interest in seeing any more, ever. To avoid this malady, arrange some non-temple-oriented activities on your Southeast Asia travel itinerary, or simply take a day (or two) off to relax and rest your eyes. After a bit of visual reboot, you'll have a whole new appreciation for a region of the globe that has more amazing temples than you could possibly imagine.

11. Don't be afraid to bargain

You should absolutely bargain with local street vendors or at markets -- it's a cultural norm to do so. I've had some great times bargaining and laughing with street vendors and even made friends with a few locals along the way, coming home with memorable souvenirs for my efforts. Just make sure to barter reasonably and always with a smile on your face. The point of bargaining is to engage with locals and agree on a fair price, not to cheat them or get scammed yourself.

12. Be a responsible tourist

It's best to avoid orphanage tourism, hill tribe visits or any activity that exploits children, ethnic groups or animals. When participating in elephant tourism, make sure to carefully vet your organization and make sure they're protecting the animals in lieu of harming them.

While begging children may tug at your heartstrings, the more money they earn from tourists, the more their parents see them as a source of monetary gain and the less inclined they are to send them to school -- where they'd have a shot at a better future.

When diving/snorkeling or out in nature, make sure to adhere to the no trace policy , not littering or taking anything from delicate natural environments.

If you want to lend real support to locals in Southeast Asia, dine at Tree Alliance restaurants . Located in Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos, these eateries train disadvantaged young adults as chefs and waiters and also donate money to programs that assist low-income locals to get jobs. Offering traditional cuisine, these restaurants provide a delicious way to help.

Related: 5 tourism-supported charities that need your help now more than ever

Or, visit an organization like Big Brother Mouse in Luang Prabang, where tourists can read books, play games or chat with kids and teens eager to practice their English.

Related: How to be a better traveler

Bottom line

Armed with these useful travel tips for Southeast Asia, you'll have a safe, smooth and successful first trip to this beautiful region. Happy travels!

The foolproof packing list for Asia: 16 must-have travel essentials

Welcome to our ultimate packing list for Asia travel essentials

From mountainous jungle to enticing oceans, massive religious monuments to historical ruins, Asia has so much to discover. When you also consider how cheaply you can travel much of the continent, there is no wonder it is one of the best backpacking destinations in the world.

Given that Asia is so immense, many visitors opt to travel slowly across Asia to absorb as much of the beauty and culture as possible. 

With that in mind, we have come up with this handy packing list for Asia travel fundamentals and gadgets to help long term travelers and short term tourists alike.

Where the recommended product is a little expensive, we have also recommended a budget option too.

You may also enjoy:

• Best International Travel Surge Protector
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Coming up Traveling Fundamentals Recommended travel tech Travel Health The ultimate must-have essential Affiliate disclosure: The links to tours or accommodation in this post are affiliate links. This means if you purchase after following one of these links, I make a small commission at no cost to yourself. Think of it like a win-win ?

Traveling Fundamentals

A bloody good backpack.

You gotta have one of these if your backpacking right? Since there is tons of walking when visiting Asia, a comfortable and well-organized backpack is a travel necessity. 

There are a couple of things you may want to consider before investing in a backpack. First is if it has waterproof features, it is common to get caught in sudden downpours in certain parts of Asia frequently.

The other important consideration is if you be checking it in. If you plan not to, make sure it fits the requirements of a carry on backpack .

We recommend: Osprey Packs Farpoint 40 travel backpack

Of course, the backpack you need will depend heavily on the size you require, however you cannot go far wrong with the Osprey brand. One such backpack is the Osprey Farpoint 40 that opens like a suitcase. Made of a durable material osprey Farpoint 40 boasts of roomy compartments, a plethora of pockets and lockable zips to keep your all your travel gears intact. For maximum comfort when covering long distances, the pack has generous padding and adjustable straps for perfect fitting.  The long-term traveler will appreciate the padded laptop sleeve and a lifetime warranty that comes with Osprey products. 

On a tight budget? Try the Gonex 55L hiking backpack with rain cover

Packing Cubes 

When I discovered packing cubes, it was a game changer when packing for long-term travel. They maximized space and helped my previously disaster zone of a backpack to stay organized. They also come in handy when separating clean clothes from dirty ones. The good thing is that they come in various sizes to accommodate different sizes of clothes. For easier identification of the piles of crap that will accumulate in your backpack,  you may find it easier to pack in cubes of different colors.

We recommend: Eagle Creek Pack It Original Starter Set

Eagle Creek makes excellent packing cubes. They are lightweight, washable, and made of top quality fabric. With over four colors and different sizes to choose from Eagle Creek is a must have for every backpacker.

On a tight budget? Try the 7-pc Travel Packing Cube System

Backpack lock

Traveling with unlocked luggage can weigh on your mind, especially when you are in dorms. Now I will happily say that almost all of the hostels that I have stayed in, I have felt confident that my stuff is safe, but there is always one or two where you feel a little nervous about leaving things behind. opportunity. That is why I have tracked down some backpack locking systems for my packing list for Asia.

We recommend: Pacsafe Backpack and Bag Protector

For ultimate peace of mind, take a look at this full on wire mesh backpack lock. You just slip the backpack in there, lock it up and no one will be getting in.

On a tight budget? Try the TSA Approved Luggage Locks

While these locks aren’t perfect, most thefts are a spur of the moment decisions and by adding a lock to your backpack, it will certainly deter thieves. The cables on these locks are a good length and should slip over most buckles as well as zips. If it is too small, you can always connect two together.

Ultra-portable water  bottles

To keep well hydrated and save on the cost of purchasing bottled water ever time, one of the best travel accessories to pack is a lightweight bottle.  Reusable water bottles also help in reducing plastic waste accumulation. Since drinking water is readily available in Asia, you just fill your bottle before long day adventures and enjoy your travels.

We recommend: Vapur Element BPA Free Foldable Water Bottle

Vapur element flexible bottle is a great solution. It is foldable, takes up little space, is cheap and BPA free. You can freeze water with them, and they are easy to clean.

On a tight budget? Try the Qnch Collapsible Water Bottle

Portable luggage scale 

Overweight luggage can decimate your budget quicker than an ice cream melts on the equator. So to avoid this, a great little accessory is a small luggage scale.

We recommend: Camry luggage scale

With Camry portable travel scale, there is no more guesswork or excess baggage you can travel confidently. Camry is accurate, easy to hook on the bag, and is small enough to fit in your backpack. This handheld digital scale comes with a battery that holds power for a long time. The digital readout display is visible and large. 

A headlamp is a  great travel accessory for outdoor activities, especially for long-term travelers backpacking Asia.  Whether it is during unexpected power outages, hiking at dusk or merely trying to find the toilet at midnight in a dorm room when others are sleeping, headlamps are part and parcel of your travel packing list.  

Unlike a flashlight, the great thing with headlamps is that they free your hands so you can multitask while ensuring your path is well lighted.

We recommend: GRDE rechargeable headlamp

We love the GRDE rechargeable headlamp, it is one one the brightest headlamps available while also being waterproof should you get caught in the rain. We also love the fact that it is a rechargeable headlamp but it can also be powered by standard batteries should you find yourself away from power for an extended period of time. Finally, it boasts of three brightness level that can be adjusted by the switch (perfect for not disturbing dorm mates), lightweight and has a comfortable and adjustable strap.

On a tight budget? Try the LE Headlamp with 4 lighting modes

Microfiber travel towel

Trust us when we say a packable travel towel is essential travel gear. We have seen many of the rentable towels in hostels, and quite frankly, we’d rather not see them again. Look for a towel that occupies minimal space in your backpack yet a quality product that lasts.  Due to variation in climate travelers envy a quick-drying material that is washable and durable.

We recommend: ECOdept microfiber travel towel

The Ecodept microfiber travel towel is a great choice. Made of a soft, absorbent, quick drying, and feather-light material, the microfiber towels comes in different sizes.  When rolled, it will fit comfortably in your carryon without eating space. 

Note: To ensure they retain their absorbency, avoid using fabric softeners and detergents.

On a tight budget? Try the 4MONSTER packable microfiber towel

There will be a stage in your journey where these come in handy. Crossing the Zambezi to take a leap into the Devil’s Pool or just swimming in the ocean and don’t fancy leaving your valuables behind, a dry bag can come to the rescue.

They are great little things to stow away as they really don’t take up much space and offer plenty of use.

We Recommend: Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags

These dry bags feature double closure strip seals at the top to prevent water from coming in and the larger bags also have added protection with a roll top fastening. They are extremely sturdy, lightweight, tear resistant and best of all, it floats.

Recommended Travel Tech

Portable travel charger .

These have been a lifesaver for many travelers visiting Asia.  Not much is more irritating than getting a flat battery in a foreign land. Given that while traveling, you will often find yourself outdoors or in transit and away from power outlets, the chances are that at some point, your phone is going to run out of juice. Don’t underestimate how much Google mapping, communicating with loved ones that you’re safe, and of course taking millions of amazing pictures to show off to your friends stuck at home. These are all battery sapping behaviors, so a backup powerpack is borderline essential . 

Note: Most power banks use lithium-ion batteries that most airlines won’t allow to be checked I, so make sure you keep it in your carry on. Having been over the Atlantic ocean while smelling burning on a plane as one of these set fire in the hold, I can promise, it is for a reason. It is not a nice feeling!

We recommend: Anker PowerCore Lite 20000mAh Portable Charger

The Anker 20000Mah power bank offers great value. With two USB ports, Anker is super fast at charging and easy to use. Just make sure you remember to charge the charger, plugging your phone into it to see it too is dead is awful, trust me, I’ve been there.

On a tight budget? Try the ZMI PowerPack 10000mAh Fast Charging Portable Battery Pack

Lightweight but great travel camera

While phones are getting better at taking photos every day, for most serious photo-backpackers, a camera is an absolute essential travel accessory.  There is nothing more fulfilling than capturing your best travel moments, scenic landscapes, and iconic attractions. Given that Asian destinations are a dream for photographers, an excellent lightweight camera is a must have for backpackers. While DSRL seems to do a great job, they are heavy and may not be an excellent choice for the minimalist traveler or long term traveler traversing Asia due to portability.  

We recommend: Sony Alpha 6000 mirrorless camera

The Sony Alpha 6000 mirrorless camera is a great choice.  Apart from being reasonably priced, a6000 captures fantastic photos and record great videos at 1080/60p. Thanks to its easily accessible manual settings featuring the menu button, dual function dials, and function button beginners can easily customize the settings. It has an in-built Wi-Fi and is light to travel with. It features filters, epic low-light performance, and autofocus system to ensure the quality of your images is maintained. 

On a tight budget? Try the Nikon COOLPIX B500 digital camera

Pocket wifi

An international wifi hotspot is incredibly useful when it comes to long-term travel. A connection has become an essential ingredient of everyday life.  The most common challenge travelers’ face is slow speed, unstable and insecure WI-FI. Since most long-term travelers work online to sustain their nomadic lifestyle, stable and robust portable Wi-Fi is non-negotiable. Portable Wi-Fi comes in handy when traveling across many countries as you need to keep in touch with your clients.

We recommend: GlocalMe 4G LTE International WiFi Hospot

If you plan on spending much time exploring Asia, then Glocalme mobile hotspot is your perfect match. It is super fast and can basically keep you connected in most countries, especially in Asia. Glocalme comes in three different packages depending on the number of countries you intend to visit. This wireless connectivity password protected to avoid data leakage and can connect to multiple devices.

On a tight budget? Try the ZTE Velocity 4G LTE Mobile Pocket WiFi Hotspot

Noise Cancelling Headphones 

Crying babies, snoring passengers or noisy neighborhoods, we’ve all had our peaceful journeys affected by one of these at some point, right? This can be frustrating, especially at night or during long flights, making it hard to sleep, read, or simply stay calm. Well, the good news is that noise canceling technology is fantastic and a great travel accessory.

We recommend: Bose QuietComfort 35 II

Bose quiet comfort 35 is an excellent choice that guarantees calm and peaceful travel experience.  It has unparalleled noise cancellation, long battery life, and superior sound quality and is Bluetooth enabled.

On a tight budget? Try the COWIN E7 Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

Travel extension cord with USB

If you are an avid traveler, you’ve probably noticed that power outlets are not always located in the most convenient spots.  Whether you are in hotels, hostels, cafes, or airports, you may find that outlets are too few to charge all your gadgets. A power strip with multiple outlets and extension cord is your ideal travel companion. It gives you the freedom to charge multiple tech devices at once and close to your desired spot.

On a tight budget? Try the TESSAN 3 outlets travel power strip with surge protector

When it comes to Asia TESSAN portable power strip is the best.  For your convenience it futures 5 feet extension cord, three USB ports, two power plug slots, and fireproof material. If you want extra protection for your devices, you can bring a surge protector along.

On a tight budget? Try the UPWADE Outlet Travel Power Strip

Travel Health

Basic first aid kit.

One of those things you hope to never have to use, but you’ll bless the stars if you need it and you have it. Nothing too fancy, just have some plasters, anti-septic wipes, that kind f thing in the case that you get a nasty cut or even have to patch up some leech bites . . . tasty.

We recommend: 66 Pieces Soft Shell Travel First Aid Kit

This little pack is the perfect size for stuffing in your back pack and forgetting about it. For the tiny space inside, it packs a lot in there with almost everything you may need for any unwanted scrapes on the road. apart from tiger attacks. If you get attacked by a tiger, you’re probably better off heading straight to hospital rather than putting a plaster on it.

Portable UV sanitizing wand

OK, time for you to gross out for a minute. Have you ever considered the number of bugs on hotel sheets or even hostel mattresses? Trust me, it’s a lot more than you would probably think.

For the most part, they are harmless. But a lot of travelers don’t fancy sharing their bed with the microscopic hitchhikers. So, luckily some technology will help, the bug killing wand. 

We recommend: UV Care ultraviolet sanitizing wand

This portable device uses the power of concentrated UV Rays to kill off many of the germs and bacteria that get in its way. While it’s not going to get everything, it will undoubtedly be an improvement. It will even come in handy for your own sleeping bag if you are traveling long term.

Other recommend health essentials

I just wanted to give you a few extra suggestions that you may want to consider picking up from a local pharmacy before you travel. While they may take up a bit of space and you may never use them, trust me when I say searching for a pharmacy while suffering from crippling diarrhea in a foreign land just to save a bit of space is not fun.

• Insect repellent
• Diarrhea Medicine
• Hand sanitizer
• Rehydration sachets

Final product

So here it is, my top recommendation that I swore like a trooper when I didn’t have it and have never left it behind since. A plug. Yep, it’s that simple. It was when traveling through Africa that I had to do some laundry and none of the damn sinks had plugs. Now I don’t know if you have ever tried cleaning your underwear under running water, but it is bloody difficult. The great thing about a universal plug it is that you will never expect to use, it, you may not even do so, but when you need one, it is very hard to plug a sink with a sock. for the price vs. space vs. how useful it is should you need one, I highly recommend packing one.

We recommend: Universal Silicone Sink Plug

There’s not much I can say about it but look . . . It has a world map on it, that’s cool. ?

If you wanted to know more about my trip through Africa, I have a fun travel diary, How to clean your underwear in Africa , available on Amazon. You can also get a digital copy by joining my mailing list . Only updates, no spam 🙂

Final Words

Travel accessories make trips smooth and more enjoyable.  They save space, time, and money and offer traveler peace of mind. While the packing list may differ from each individual, the above-listed items are very beneficial and are worthy of investing in.

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53 Essential Travel Tips for Backpacking Southeast Asia

By: Author Taylor Lorenz

Posted on Last updated: 03/27/2023

Backpacking Southeast Asia is full of surprises for both new and seasoned travelers in the area. And with these travel tips I promise you will be way more prepared to travel Southeast Asia and know what to expect. Trust me when I say that some things you don’t want to be a surprise.

I’m sharing my best Asia tips on saving money, necessities to pack (it’s a good time to treat yourself to a travel gift or two), how to keep healthy and the top things you must know when you backpack Southeast Asia. But make sure you also know the basics of how to travel safely too. The only place that most of these don’t apply to is Singapore .

Table of Contents

Need to Know Tips for Backpacking Southeast Asia

Do not leave for your trip without reading every one of the Southeast Aisa travel tips in this category. These are the basics for backpacking Asia and the most important.

1.  Always have toilet paper – There is never any around, but when you do find some, stock up! Seriously you will realize that you need it when travelling Asia.

2. Research cab fares before you arrive – One of the biggest scams in Southeast Asia is with cabs ripping people off. Know how much it should cost to get from where you are arriving to your accommodation. You can usually figure out what cabs should cost by asking others you meet on the road. Or find out what cab companies are trusted. Email a hostel and ask.

3. Know if there will be an ATM – You won’t have a problem with finding ATMs in most of Southeast Asia, but there will be the odd spot where there are none. Plan ahead! Some examples are El Nido, Philippines and Koh Rong, Cambodia.

4. Wifi is everywhere, no need to buy SIM cards – Free wifi is honestly way easier to come by than expected and for the most part it is decent. That being said, SIM cards are super cheap so you’re not breaking the bank buying them. But why spend the money when you could easily save? And if you’re worried about getting lost, download Maps.me, an app that doesn’t need wifi to use maps!

5. Always have USD – If you ever run out of the local currency USD will be accepted. Most boarders require you to pay in USD as well. I recommend getting some in your home country and bringing it with you, though some countries (like Cambodia ) dispense USD as well as the local currency. I use XE Currency for up to date conversions.

6. Research scams to lookout for before you go to a new country/cross borders  – A lot of scams in SE Asia are common, so make sure you know what to look out for. Most have to do with cabs, renting scooters, and crossing borders.

7. Weather! – No, unfortunately the weather is not always perfect and sunny and warm in Southeast Asia. Parts can get quite cold (like snow cold in northern Vietnam). You’ll also want to avoid monsoon season , especially if visiting an island. And know that the hottest month is generally April (aka you will never stop sweating). It varies from country to country, but traveling in offseason can be cheaper.

READ MORE: Southeast Asia Packing List

8. Don’t be afraid of street food – I’ve seen people get just as sick from eating at sit down restaurants than I have from street food stalls when traveling in Asia. The only difference is that you can’t see what’s going on in the kitchen.

9. Agree on a taxi price before you get in – If you don’t you’ll suddenly be expected to pay a ridiculous amount. This is the same for tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, tricycles, etc.

10. Don’t expect anything to be on time. But if you’re late, expect it to be on time – The one time you’re late the bus will actually be on time (it happened to me). But for the most part everything leaves late. People in Asia are a lot more relaxed and don’t care about time like we do in the western world.

11. Take pictures of your scooter before leaving the rental place – Whenever renting anything in SE Asia always take pictures of everything. Including close-ups of the scratches/dents so that they can’t blame you for anything and try to charge you. A good company will mark down any damages on paper and give you a copy or take pictures themselves. Even if they do this still take your own pictures.

12. Learn some phrases – Learning how to say hello and thank you are a good start and people really appreciate it.

13. Always keep your calm – This is a must. Never get angry with a local, raise your voice, or get all up in their face. This is not how things are handled in Asia. Trust me, you will never win. The locals will help the locals out, not you.

14. Always have hand sanitizer – Just like toilet paper, you won’t find soap much.

`15. Get used to the bum gun – For those situations when you don’t have toilet paper. It’s a gun that shoots water to clean yourself. You’ll see them when backpacking through Southeast Asia, don’t leave Asia without trying it!

16. Have at least 6 months validity on your passport – Most countries (this applies for even outside SE Asia) require you to have at least 6 months left on your passport. Otherwise they can deny you entry. The same goes for having blank pages. I’d have a minimum of two blank pages when entering a country.

17. Always pay the extra couple of bucks for air conditioning – Seriously, you’ll thank me later. Fans just blowing around hot air will not cut it when you’re trying to sleep.

18. Don’t plan everything before you go – You’ll find the best suggestions from the people you meet while on the road. It is good to have a general idea though!

19. Expect squat toilets in most places – I didn’t stay in a hostel that didn’t have regular western toilets, but when traveling from spot to spot, at restaurants, and in public places it was mostly squat toilets.

20. Never leave your stuff unattended – This is the most important when you’re traveling. Never leave your stuff on the bus unless you have someone watching it for you.

21. Watch out for snatchers – For ladies I recommend having a cross body bag that you wear cross body or have your hand on at all times. All should hold onto their phones tight. Snatchers are usually people on scooters who will grab your bag or whatever is in your hand quickly while you’re walking, in a tuk tuk or on a bike.

22. All things whitening – We want to be tanned, but in Asia they want to be white. So watch out when buying products as most will have whitening agents.

23. If you have big feet and need new shoes, good luck – Asians have way smaller feet than westerns so if you break or lose your flip flops you may have trouble finding a new pair.

24. Learn to go with the flow and just say yes – People are much more laid back in Asia. Travel Asia and use it as a time to relax. Don’t get caught up with things being late or schedules. Just expect things as they are or it’ll be a nightmare trip for you.

25. Don’t expect western safety standards – You will have “OMG we’re going to die” moments when driving too close to the edge of a cliff or riding through choppy waves in the ocean. This stuff happens all the time when you backpack through Asia. Also when on a boat never expect there to be enough life jackets so don’t freak out at everything that doesn’t seem “safe.”

26. Know visa requirements – For every country on your Southeast Aia trip you will need to know how much visas will cost, to knowing if you need a picture or not, and what currency to pay in (usually USD). Know if you need to apply online beforehand or if you can get it at the border, or if you need proof of a flight of onward travel (most don’t care but the Philippines is very strict about this).

27. You will see the same souvenirs over and over again – No need to panic and buy everything at once. Guaranteed you will see the same thing in the next city or country and literally everywhere backpacking through Asia.

28. Toilet paper does not go down the drain – Don’t flush toilet paper. Be kind to the next person, they don’t want to deal with a clogged toilet. Throw it in the trash bin.

29. You  will  see poverty – Prepare yourself. It’s not home. And though you may be traveling to all of the pretty places, while traveling from destination to destination you will see poverty.

30. Be Prepared to sweat  a lot –  This is a helpful guide with every possible tip to help you to stop sweating while traveling .

Money Saving Tips for Southeast Asia Travel

Backpacking in Asia can be done on the cheap but you need to know the best Asia travel tips first.

31. Know how to budget – Super boring I know, but I have a detailed Southeast Asia budget guide to help you not go over budget and to know what to expect for each country.

32. Use 12G0 – If you haven’t travelled through Southeast Asia before you probably haven’t heard of 12Go . It’s a site that shows you options to travel all across Asia from short to long trips. I recommend checking it out to compare prices before booking.

33. Best airline to fly with: AirAsia  – They’re my personal favorite budget airline to fly with and fly to the most destinations. You will pay for checked luggage so make sure to purchase it when you book your ticket or you will be charged 4x the price when checking in.

34. Volunteer in Southeast Asia – If you ever find that you budget is getting a little too tight or if you just want to save some money, then volunteering in Southeast Asia is a great way to not only save money but also learn new skills and meet other fellow travellers.

I recommend checking out the opportunities available on Worldpackers where for $49 a year you have access to over 4000 volunteer hosts and a community of over 1 million travellers. PLUS as a Taylor’s Tracks reader you get $10 off when you use the code TAYLORSTRACKS .

35. Buses are your best friend – Traveling by bus is the way to go in SE Asia if you want to save money. But if you’re tight on time, fly. Always splurge and go for the VIP buses. They’re never that more much and it will be a way better experience.

36. Laos Kip is very difficult to exchange – If you’re heading to Laos you’ll have no problem getting their local currency but good luck getting rid of it when you’re out of the country. Exchange it  before you leave or at the border if crossing by land.

37. Take local transport – It’s not as bad as you’d expect, it’s cheap and it always makes for an adventure while backpacking in Asia.

38. Travel throughout the night – Yay for night buses! Vietnam travel is easy because it has the best buses for overnight travel because they’re sleeper buses so you can actually lay down. By traveling at night you’ll save on accommodation and have more time to do things during the day!

39. Get used to haggling – If you don’t haggle you will be overpaying for everything. Some things you can’t haggle for (like food), but use your skills while at markets, shops and with transportation. Start low, you can usually tell by the look on the locals face if you’ve gone too low. And don’t be afraid to walk away, most will give in and accept your offer. If they don’t then you’re probably being unrealistic.

40. Always go for the local beer – It’s cheap and often really good!

41. Uber and Grab – Grab is the equivalent of Uber, but the Asian version (you can ride on the back of a scooter for cheaper than a car). I recommend these the most for the Philippines.

42. Bring sunscreen from home – It is ridiculously expensive in SE Asia. It’s one of the few things I recommend bringing that are worth using the extra space in your bag for.

43. Avoid package tours – Though some are great, they’re always more expensive than doing it yourself. That being said, don’t skip on all. I used tours for trekking in Myanmar, Sapa, and Halong Bay.

Packing Tips for Travel in Southeast Asia

When you travel Southeast Asia you want to make sure you have the proper clothes for heat and culture reasons.

44. Ladies, pack a scarf to easily cover up – This is essential when visiting temples. It’s too hot to always be covered, but you’ll need your shoulders, chest, and knees to be covered when visiting temples. This is a great post on a fabulous piece for your travels.

45. Pack proper shoes – Treks in SE Asia are quite common, so don’t write them off just yet. With that being said, make sure you have proper shoes. And no those cute no grip Nike’s won’t do the trick (I tried and sprained my ankle!). You’ll also want shoes to easily slip on and off at temples.

46. Don’t pack too much, clothes are cheap! – Clothes are super cheap and easy to find at markets. Most are pretty cute too. But if you are heavier clothes may be more difficult to find because their sizes are so small!

47. You better have Imodium – At some point you’ll need it. Especially for long bus rides after eating questionable meat. Or for day trips on boats when bathrooms are not accessible.

48. Pack appropriate clothes – Please respect the locals and not only pack skinny tanks, short shorts, and belly tops. It’s fine to wear shorts and tanks, and certain places are more open than others, but this is not your home. So dress according to their standards, not yours.

49. Whatever you need to sleep on night buses – You’ll probably take at least one during your trip. Have something you can pop to make sure you get as best a sleep you can.

Health Tips for Your Southeast Asia Trip

One of the main fears of traveling Southeast Asia is getting sick from food, don’t worry it happens to the best of us! There are just a couple of essential tips to help it from not happening.

50. Your gut may get out of balance – If this happens, eat sunflower seeds. Taking probiotics before and during your trip can also help (please know that I am not a doctor so I can only tell you what works from personal experience for my body).

51. Only drink bottled water – Try to find brands you know, but don’t panic if you can’t. And check to make sure the seal isn’t broken.

52. Ice – Most is safe to drink, but be warry. I’d say it’s rare to find ice that is bad as even the locals don’t use ice that isn’t filtered.

53. Eat where the locals eat – The more people at a restaurant or food stall the better. People don’t eat where they’ve gotten sick before! Plus you know it’s tasty.

Got all of that? Not you’re ready to backpack Asia! But even if you think you’re fully prepared, expect not to be. There are  always  surprises when in Southeast Asia backpacking. Regardless, embrace it and have fun!

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Faye Bradley is a Hong Kong-based food, travel, and lifestyle writer who contributes to several local and international publications. With a passion for discovering new places, Faye is always on the lookout for hot openings and up-and-coming destinations steeped in culture, history, and heritage — with her compass often being guided by the aromatic allure of culinary experiences.

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