Hello~ Everyone, this is Momo 😊 Today is all about backpacking in Southeast Asia in 2025! I have some useful information for you guys~ Shall we find out right away?^^
If you've been dreaming about that perfect backpacking adventure through the stunning landscapes of Southeast Asia, you might want to read this first.
Things have changed significantly since the travel boom of the early 2020s, and I want to share my recent experiences to help you prepare for what's really waiting for you there nowadays.
The picture-perfect Instagram posts don't always tell the whole story, and I learned this the hard way during my three-month journey through Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Indonesia.
| Country | Crowding Level |
| Thailand | Extreme |
| Vietnam | High |
| Cambodia | Moderate |
| Indonesia | High (Bali) / Low (Other islands) |
Remember those dreamy photos of Maya Bay in Thailand? Well, prepare for a shock. Despite reopening with visitor restrictions, it's still overwhelmed with tourists trying to capture the perfect shot.
The same goes for Bali's once-tranquil beaches. Kuta and Seminyak are now essentially outdoor malls with sand. Even the "secret beaches" mentioned in guidebooks from 2022 are now packed with visitors.
However, this doesn't mean you can't find beautiful spots. You just need to work harder and venture further off the beaten path than ever before.
One of the harshest truths: Southeast Asia is no longer the budget paradise it once was. Prices have increased dramatically, especially in tourist hotspots.
A basic hostel dorm in Bangkok now starts at $15-20 per night (up from $5-10 in 2020). Street food meals that once cost $1-2 are now typically $3-5.
The biggest increases are in activities and transportation. Island hopping tours have nearly doubled in price, and even local transportation costs significantly more due to fuel prices.
Plan for at least $50/day as an absolute minimum budget, and $70-80/day to be more comfortable and not miss out on experiences.
Perhaps the most heartbreaking aspect of traveling in Southeast Asia now is witnessing the environmental degradation firsthand. 😢
Plastic pollution has reached crisis levels on many beaches. During my visit to Koh Phi Phi, I participated in a beach cleanup where we collected over 200 pounds of plastic in just two hours.
Coral bleaching is visible even to the untrained eye when snorkeling in once-vibrant reefs.
Many travelers are now joining conservation efforts during their trips, which can be a meaningful way to help while still enjoying your journey.
The digital nomad scene has exploded, particularly in places like Canggu (Bali), Chiang Mai, and Ho Chi Minh City.
This has created interesting communities but also driven up prices in these areas substantially. Cafes that welcome laptops now charge premium prices for the privilege.
Wi-Fi reliability remains inconsistent outside major urban centers. Don't expect to work from that beautiful beach bungalow unless you've verified the internet situation thoroughly!
The best approach is to plan work-focused days in cities, followed by truly disconnected adventure days when you're in more remote areas.
| Must-Pack Items | Health Considerations | Safety Tips |
| Reusable water bottle with filter | Travel insurance with COVID coverage | Share location with trusted contact |
| Portable power bank | Mosquito repellent (35% DEET) | Use registered ride-sharing apps |
| Rain cover for backpack | Oral rehydration salts | Store valuables in separate places |
| Microfiber quick-dry towel | Basic first aid supplies | Research local scams before arrival |
Despite the challenges, there are still amazing experiences to be had! 🌈 Some of my favorite discoveries were:
In Vietnam, the rural areas around Phong Nha offer breathtaking caves and landscapes with far fewer visitors than Ha Long Bay.
In Thailand, the northeastern Isaan region provides authentic cultural experiences and incredible food at much lower prices than the islands or Bangkok.
Indonesia's Flores and the surrounding islands offer the dragon sightings and pristine beaches that Bali had decades ago.
Cambodia's Cardamom Mountains provide jungle trekking experiences with the added benefit of supporting conservation initiatives.
| Accommodation Types | Transportation Options | Authentic Experiences |
| Eco-lodges | Sleeper trains | Local cooking classes |
| Homestays | Ride-sharing apps | Morning markets |
| Boutique hostels | Regional budget airlines | Temple stays |
| Volunteer housing | Motorcycle rental | Community tourism projects |
Is it still worth backpacking in Southeast Asia in 2025?
Absolutely, but with adjusted expectations. The days of $10/day budgets are gone, and you'll need to work harder to find authentic experiences. However, the cultural richness, natural beauty, and incredible food still make it worthwhile.
Which countries offer the best value for money now?
Currently, parts of Cambodia, Laos, and the less touristy regions of Vietnam offer better value. Indonesia beyond Bali can also be quite affordable. Thailand and Malaysia have become significantly more expensive, especially in popular areas.
How has transportation changed since the pandemic?
Many budget airlines have reduced their routes, making some connections more expensive or requiring transfers. Train systems have improved in Vietnam and Thailand, while ride-sharing apps are now available in most major cities, providing safer transportation options than before.
See you next time with a better topic 🌟 Bye Bye~