Top 5 Budget-friendly destinations for first-time travellers

Dreaming of your first overseas adventure but worried about the cost?

The good news is you don’t need a massive budget to experience incredible cultures, delicious food, and unforgettable scenery. In fact, some of the world’s most exciting destinations are also the most affordable – especially for Kiwi travellers.

Here are five destinations that offer outstanding value for money without compromising on experience.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali continues to top the list for Kiwi travellers – and for good reason. With regularly available flight deals and an enormous range of accommodation options, Bali can suit almost any budget. Whether you choose a simple hostel, a boutique guesthouse, or a shared private villa with a pool, you’ll find impressive value.

Food is another major win. Local warungs and street stalls serve up fresh, flavour-packed meals for just a few dollars, making it easy to eat well without overspending. Add to that the abundance of low-cost or free experiences – beaches, rice terraces, waterfalls, temples, yoga classes, local markets and cultural ceremonies – and you’ve got a destination that delivers incredible bang for your buck.

With its relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals, and easy tourism infrastructure, Bali is one of the best first overseas trips you can take.

Vietnam

Vietnam is a standout for travellers who want maximum experience for minimum spend. Accommodation ranges from stylish budget hotels to charming homestays, and meals are famously inexpensive – think steaming bowls of pho, banh mi rolls, and fresh spring rolls for just a few dollars.

What really sets Vietnam apart is the variety. You can explore buzzing cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, cruise through the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, wander lantern-lit streets in Hoi An, or relax on tropical beaches – all within one country.

With some smart planning and help from our team to find flight deals, getting from New Zealand to Southeast Asia can be far more affordable than many people expect. Vietnam is proof that budget travel doesn’t mean missing out.

Thailand

Thailand remains one of the most popular destinations for New Zealanders, especially for those travelling overseas for the first time. And it’s easy to see why.

Everyday costs like accommodation, meals and transport are significantly lower than in many Western countries, which means you can travel comfortably without constantly watching your spending. From street food dinners to affordable domestic flights and trains, Thailand makes it easy to stretch your budget.

The diversity is another huge plus. You can experience vibrant city life in Bangkok, immerse yourself in history at ancient temples in Chiang Mai, or unwind on stunning islands like Koh Samui, Phuket or Krabi. Thailand also has a well-developed tourism network, making it simple to get around, book activities, and feel supported – ideal if you’re new to international travel.

Malaysia

Malaysia is one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated gems, offering exceptional value and a surprisingly diverse range of experiences.

Kuala Lumpur is an excellent entry point for first-time travellers. It’s modern, easy to navigate, and English is widely spoken. Public transport is reliable, making it stress-free to explore the city. From there, you can branch out to places like Penang – famous for its world-class street food, rich cultural heritage and colourful street art – or escape to the islands.

Langkawi is a highlight for travellers wanting beach time without the hefty price tag of destinations like Fiji or Rarotonga. With beautiful scenery, relaxed vibes and excellent value accommodation, it’s perfect for those who want to unwind while still keeping costs down.

Clean, safe and affordable, Malaysia offers fantastic value for money and is an excellent stepping stone into international travel.

Taiwan

If safety, ease and organisation are top priorities, Taiwan is an outstanding choice for first-time travellers. It offers a wonderful balance of cultural depth and travel comfort.

Taiwan’s street food scene is legendary, with night markets serving up delicious dishes at very low prices. Accommodation is affordable and high quality, and the public transport system – especially the trains – is efficient, clean and easy to use.

You’ll find plenty of variety here too: bustling night markets, historic temples, scenic mountain towns like Jiufen, relaxing hot springs, and breathtaking natural landscapes such as Taroko Gorge. Despite offering so much, Taiwan remains compact and easy to navigate. In fact, it’s smaller than Tasmania, yet you can travel from one end of the country to the other in around 90 minutes using the high-speed rail.

It’s a destination that feels adventurous without being overwhelming – perfect for building confidence as a traveller.

Ready to plan your first overseas adventure?

Choosing the right destination is just the beginning. At World Travellers Motueka, we specialise in helping travellers create trips that suit their budget, interests and experience level. From finding the best-value flights to recommending accommodation, travel insurance and must-do experiences, we’re here to make your journey easy and enjoyable.

If you’ve been thinking about taking that first step into overseas travel, now is the perfect time.