Approximately 44 million backpacking trips are taken each year, with research estimating the average spend per trip as $4,111 (2017).
Analyzing 80+ capital cities, a Cotswold Outdoor study reveals the best 2023 destinations for backpackers, looking at the average likely costs (public transport, groceries, and hostels) along with crime rates, mobile internet speeds, and the number of couch surf hosts and free attractions available.
- Yerevan, Baku, and Bangkok have been revealed as the overall top three destinations for backpackers in 2023, Hanoi and Seoul complete the top five.
- Bangkok has the best choice of hostels (992), which will cost visitors an average of $17 per night
- Thailand’s capital is also home to a wealth of free attractions (460+)
- Bangkok ranks more mid-range for its public transport and basic grocery shop costs and its choice of couch-surfing hosts
