10-Day Southeast Asia Backpacking Itinerary: Thailand, Vietnam & Cambodia on a Budget

Why This Itinerary Works

Southeast Asia offers an unbeatable mix of ancient cultures, stunning landscapes, and budget-friendly travel. This optimized 10-day route covers three iconic destinations while keeping costs low (under $50/day) and travel times efficient.

Key Highlights:

- Experience Bangkok's vibrant street life

- Cruise through Vietnam's breathtaking Halong Bay

- Witness Angkor Wat's magical sunrise

- Sample world-famous street food at local prices

## Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

### Days 1-3: Bangkok, Thailand - The Gateway to Southeast Asia

Where to Stay:

- Budget: Lub d Bangkok Silom ($8/night) - Great social atmosphere

- Mid-range: Bangkok Loft Inn ($25/night) - Rooftop pool with city views

Must-Do Activities:

1. Grand Palace & Wat Pho (Day 1 Morning)

- Arrive early (8AM) to beat crowds

- Dress code: Cover shoulders/knees

- Pro tip: Visit nearby Wat Arun across the river for sunset

2. Khao San Road & Chinatown (Day 1 Evening)

- Try street food favorites: pad thai (฿40), mango sticky rice (฿50)

- Best bars: The Club (live music), Brick Bar (ska/punk)

3. Day Trip to Ayutthaya (Day 2)

- Take early train from Hua Lamphong Station (฿15, 1.5 hours)

- Rent bicycle (฿50/day) to explore temple ruins

- Don't miss: Wat Mahathat (Buddha head in tree roots)

Transport Tip: Use Grab (Southeast Asia's Uber) for cheap, hassle-free rides.

### Days 4-6: Hanoi & Halong Bay, Vietnam

Travel from Bangkok:

- Overnight train to Laos + bus (cheapest but 30+ hours)

- Recommended: AirAsia flight to Hanoi ($50-80, 2 hours)

Where to Stay:

- Hanoi Buffalo Hostel ($5/night) - Best for solo travelers

- La Siesta Central ($35/night) - Boutique charm in Old Quarter

Must-Do Activities:

1. Halong Bay Cruise (Day 4-5)

- Book 1-night cruise ($60-120)

- Best budget operator: Vega Travel

- Must-pack: Swimwear, motion sickness pills

2. Hanoi Food Tour (Day 6)

- Morning: Pho at Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su (₫50,000)

- Afternoon: Egg coffee at Cafe Giang

- Evening: Bia hoi (fresh beer) at Ta Hien Street

Local Tip: Learn basic Vietnamese phrases - even "xin chào" (hello) earns smiles.

### Days 7-10: Siem Reap & Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Travel from Hanoi:

- Direct flight ($80-120, 1.5 hours)

- Budget option: Bus via Phnom Penh ($25, 12+ hours)

Where to Stay:

- Mad Monkey Hostel ($4/night) - Famous party hostel

- Templation Hotel ($45/night) - Peaceful retreat with pool

Must-Do Activities:

1. Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour (Day 7)

- 4:30AM departure - bring headlamp

- Hire tuk-tuk driver for full day ($15)

- Best temples: Ta Prohm, Bayon, Banteay Srei

2. Pub Street & Local Experiences (Day 8)

- Try fish amok (Cambodia's national dish)

- Visit Phare Circus ($18) - incredible acrobatics show

3. Tonlé Sap Floating Village (Day 9)

- Choose ethical tour operators

- Best time: Wet season (June-Nov) when water levels are high

## Budget Breakdown (Per Person)

| Expense | Estimated Cost |

|---------|--------------|

| Accommodation | $70-150 |

| Food | $50-75 |

| Transport | $120-200 |

| Activities | $80-150 |

| Total | $320-575 |

Money-Saving Tips:

- Travel shoulder season (May-Jun, Sep-Oct)

- Use overnight buses/trains to save on accommodation

- Withdraw local currency (better rates than exchanges)

## Essential Travel Tips

Visas:

- Thailand: Free 30-day visa for most passports

- Vietnam: E-visa required ($25, apply online)

- Cambodia: Visa on arrival ($30 + passport photo)

Health & Safety:

- Vaccinations: Hep A, Typhoid recommended

- Pack: Mosquito repellent, diarrhea medicine

- Scams to avoid: Gem store "deals," closed attraction tricks

Packing List Essentials:

- Quick-dry clothing (humid climate!)

- Universal adapter

- Light rain jacket

- Copies of important documents

## Final Thoughts

This whirlwind 10-day itinerary proves you can experience Southeast Asia's highlights without breaking the bank. From Bangkok's golden temples to Halong Bay's emerald waters and Angkor Wat's ancient wonders, every moment promises adventure.