Dave’s Travel World

Am I too old to travel in Southeast Asia?

Never! You’re never too old to be a backpacker in Southeast Asia. While some hostels are targeted at 18 to 25 year olds many have a much wider appeal. While travelling, you’re likely to meet all sorts of people of varying ages and backgrounds. You might even meet me. I’m over 70 and still actively backpacking.

What are the common scams to watch out for?

Common scams include inflated taxi fares, unofficial transport providers, overpriced tours, currency exchange tricks, and overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Use reputable transport apps where available, agree on prices beforehand, keep valuables secure, and book activities through trusted operators or well-reviewed hostels.

How easy is it to book a flight, when should I book it and how much will it cost?

Flights can be booked easily online using a flight booking service such as Expedia. Generally, the earlier you book, the cheaper it tends to be. This is not always the case, though. Typical budget return flights from the UK to Bangkok cost between $600 and $900 USD. Such flights usually necessitate a change in the Middle East or at a Chinese Airport. Prices can vary significantly depending on time of year and the geopolitical situation. You should be aware that if you book a budget price air ticket, it will be difficult and expensive to make changes to your booking. Full price flexible tickets are, however, much more expensive.

Do I need to book a return flight?

No, but return tickets are generally cheaper than buying two single tickets. It does mean, though, that you have to fix your return date prior to departure. Also, you may need a return ticket to enter some countries – See below. If you want flexibility, it would be worth exploring ticket prices and ticket cancellation / change conditions with an online air ticketing site such as Expedia.

Do I need a return or onward flight ticket when flying into Asia?

Generally, yes, many countries in Asia will only allow you to enter if you have proof of onward travel. This means being able to show you have booked a return flight or onward travel to another country before the expiry date on your visa (or visa waiver). If you want to keep your travel plans flexible, then one way around this issue is to book a very cheap ‘phantom’ exit flight to a nearby country.

Do I have to buy my return ticket from the same airport as my original arrival in Southeast Asia?

No. You can buy an ‘Open Jaw’ ticket that will allow you to fly back from a different airport. These tickets are not widely advertised but can be accessed through sites like Skyscanner using their ‘Multi-trip’ booking facility. Sometimes, with Middle East or Chinese airlines, these tickets can be obtained for a similar price to a normal return ticket.

Are there any general passport requirements that I must meet to ensure entry into any Southeast Asian country?

Passport requirements may vary by country, and you are advised to check the travel website of your intended destinations before travelling. In general, though, there are two basic passport requirements for entry into most Southeast Asian countries. First, your passport must have at least 6 months of validity beyond the date of entry into the country, and secondly, your passport must have at least 2 blank pages for entry / exit stamps. In reality, if you are planning on travelling around Southeast Asia for some time, it would be prudent to ensure that you have at least one year of validity remaining on your passport and at least 6 blank pages for exit / entry stamps. In addition to these basic requirements, you may also need an entry visa prior to arriving in the country and proof that you have a valid air ticket for your future departure from the country. These issues are addressed below.

Do I need a visa for every country?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the countries you plan to visit. Some destinations offer visa-free entry, while others require an ‘eVisa’ or ‘Visa on Arrival’. Always check the latest entry requirements before travelling. For UK passport holders, information on travel advice and visa requirements for entry to Southeast Asia countries can be found at the UK Government travel advice website. Similar information for US passport holders can be found at the US Government Department of State website.

What’s the difference between an eVisa and a ‘Visa on Arrival’?

An ‘eVisa’ is applied for and approved over the internet before arriving in the country of interest, while a ‘Visa on Arrival’ necessitates you applying and receiving the visa at the arrival airport. If an ‘eVisa’ is on offer, this is usually the most sensible method to choose as it avoids the need to queue and pay at the arrival airport. It also gives a degree of certainty that you will be allowed to board your flight and will be granted access on arrival. It should be noted, however, that holding an ‘eVisa’ does not guarantee you access. Always ensure you are aware of each country’s entry processes before travelling.

How long does a tourist visa usually last?

This can vary depending on the country you are visiting, your home country and your circumstances. Generally, however, tourist visas in Southeast Asia last for 28 days to one month. You are advised to check with the destination country’s tourist visa website page before travelling. This website provides useful links and information for each Southeast Asia country.

Do I have to pay for a visa?

Yes. Most countries charge an administrative fee for issuing tourist visas. The cost can be confirmed on the country’s tourist visa web page. This website provides useful information for each Southeast Asian country. Be aware that in some countries, ‘Visa on Arrival’ fees need to be paid in cash, sometimes in US Dollars.

Can I extend a tourist visa once I have arrived in a destination country?

Yes, sometimes you can through applying to the country’s tourist visa office after arrival. However, without assistance from a local travel advisor, this may be a time consuming activity. An alternative to extending your tourist visa may be to undertake what is termed a ‘visa run’.

What is a ‘visa run’?

A ‘visa run’ involves leaving the country by air or land, prior to the date of your visa expiry, and returning the next day so as to obtain a new tourist eVisa or ‘Visa on Entry’.  If you want to explore this approach, you are advised to research its applicability to your circumstances before proceeding. You should also be aware that you may need an ‘entry visa’ for your chosen ‘visa run’ destination.

Can I get a job whilst travelling in Southeast Asia?

No. In most countries in Southeast Asia, you will need a work permit to engage legally in local employment. If you are planning to work, you will need to speak to your prospective employer to obtain any required work permit. For information regarding working as a Digital Nomad, please follow this link

Do I need vaccinations?

Yes. Recommended vaccinations vary by destination and your personal health. Common recommendations include Hepatitis A and Typhoid, while others may be advised depending on your itinerary. Consult a travel health clinic several weeks before departure.

Do I need a special driving licence to drive a car or motorbike in Southeast Asia?

Yes. If you are planning to drive a motorcycle or a car in Southeast Asia, you will need to take your driving licence with you. Additionally, you need to obtain an International Driving Permit that is valid for the vehicle and country in question. More information regarding which form of International Driving Permit is needed in each country can be found on this UK Government website page. You should also check whether the medical cover under your travel insurance covers you in the event of injury.

 Where can I obtain a SIM card or eSIM that offers the best coverage?

Most travellers now use eSIMs or purchase local SIM cards on arrival. Local providers usually offer excellent value with generous data allowances. If you’re visiting multiple countries, consider a regional eSIM to avoid changing SIM cards at every border. If you want to buy an appropriate eSIM before leaving home, one can be obtained from Airalo.

Will I have access to laundry facilities?

Yes. Nearly every backpacker destination has affordable laundry services, and many hostels offer self-service washing machines or partner with local laundries. This allows you to pack fewer clothes.

How do I meet other backpackers?

Hostels regularly organise pub crawls, walking tours, cooking classes, game nights, and excursions. Shared dorms and communal areas naturally encourage meeting fellow travellers.

Are the toilet facilities ok?

Yes and no. As long as you stay in Western-style hostels or hotels, the bathroom facilities should be fine, albeit the shower facilities can sometimes be a bit basic. It is always sensible to read the traveller reviews before booking, though, to ensure there are no negative comments in this respect. Away from hotels / hostels the situation changes. Firstly, there are few public toilets and those that do exist may not be well maintained. Secondly, it’s common to find that toilets are of the ‘squatting variety’, rather than the European seated model. If you do find yourself in need, it’s best to head for a modern shopping mall, a western style restaurant or cafe (i.e. McDonald’s, an Irish bar, etc.) or another hotel. This might involve you having to purchase a coffee or something, but it will be money well spent. It should also be noted that toilet paper is rarely provided, so it’s best to carry your own.

Can I drink the tap water?

In most cases, no. In most Southeast Asian countries, it’s best to drink bottled or filtered water unless local authorities advise that tap water is safe. Many hostels provide filtered water refill stations, making it easy to stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste.

Is street food safe to eat?

In most cases, yes. Choose busy food stalls with a high turnover of customers, where food is cooked fresh in front of you. Avoid food that’s been sitting out for long periods and drink bottled or filtered water where tap water isn’t considered safe.

What’s the best route for first-time backpackers?

Popular routes include: Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia; or Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore. Most first-time travellers spend 3–8 weeks exploring several countries.

Which destinations are best for island hopping?

Thailand offers famous island chains in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand, while the Philippines is renowned for thousands of islands with stunning beaches and diving. Indonesia also offers incredible island-hopping opportunities, particularly around Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands. Ferry services connect many popular islands, although schedules can be affected by weather. Some ideas for Island hopping are included in the Further Reading section of this post.

How do I get between countries?

Backpackers commonly travel by budget airlines, overnight buses, trains, ferries, and minibuses. Budget airlines are often inexpensive if booked in advance, while buses and trains are ideal for shorter regional journeys. Budget airline flights can be explored at Expedia, and local train and bus tickets can be obtained from 12Go

How easy is it to cross borders?

Most popular backpacking routes have well-established border crossings with regular buses, trains, and flights. Allow extra time at land borders and make sure you meet all visa and passport requirements before travelling. (See more information on visas)

Can you recommend any travel itineraries?

The choice of travel itinerary depends on your interests and the extent to which you are willing to change hostel / hotel during your travels. This is dictated by whether you view travel as a means to reach a destination or whether you view travelling as being the main purpose of your trip. In the latter case, it is the journey, rather than the arrival, that matters. A selection of my travel adventures, which follow the second approach. are available below. Many of these posts include maps and itineraries.

How much money do I need for a backpacking trip in Southeast Asia?

Budget travellers typically spend $30–$75 USD per day, depending on country and travel style. Countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos are generally cheaper than Singapore or parts of Thailand.

Which countries are the cheapest?

Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and parts of Indonesia generally offer the best value. Thailand is affordable, but tourist hotspots can be more expensive. Singapore is typically the most expensive destination in the region.

Can you provide more detail about how much money I will need to travel through Southeast Asia?

Excluding long flight costs and other one-off expenditures (Visas, souvenirs, etc), you should budget as follows:

Tight Budget ($30–$35 USD / day):

Stay in basic hostel dorm beds ($3.50–$10 USD/night), eat mostly street food ($1–$4 per meal), and use slow local buses.

Comfortable Mid-Range ($50–$60 USD / day):

Stay in private air-conditioned hotel rooms or nice guesthouses ($15–$40/night), eat a mix of local restaurant and Western food, and take occasional short flights or ferries.

Key Expense Factors

Accommodation: Hostel beds cost $3.50–$18 USD per night; hostel private rooms cost $10–$80 USD per night.

Food: Street food costs $1–$4 USD per meal; sit-down local restaurant meals cost $4–$12 USD.

Transport: Local city transit starts under $1 per ride; intercity buses cost about $10; scooter rentals cost $7–$20 USD per day.

Are there significant differences in daily costs by country?

Countries like Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia are the cheapest ($25–$35 USD /day), while Thailand, Indonesia (Bali), and the Philippines can run slightly higher ($35–$50 USD /day). Major urban hubs like Singapore are vastly more expensive and will drain a budget fast.

How much local currency cash should I carry?

Carry enough local currency for daily expenses, transport, and small purchases, as many local businesses are cash-only. Larger hotels, restaurants, and shopping centres often accept cards. ATMs are widely available throughout Southeast Asia. Keep your cash in separate places for added security.

How can I access local currency money in Southeast Asia?

ATMs are widely available throughout Southeast Asia and usually accept Visa and Mastercard. You should be aware, though, that your credit / debit card provider and the ATM provider may charge fees. Use a bank debit card for cash withdrawals in preference to a credit card. The latter often charge a higher withdrawal fee and high interest rates on outstanding balances. Both debit and credit card providers may also charge currency conversion fees. Some specific cards, however, are targeted towards international travel and have reduced fees. In terms of ATM provider fees, you just need to be aware and shop around. Often, these ATM provider fees are a fixed charge per withdrawal. They can therefore be very high if you make several small withdrawals.

Are hostels widely available in Southeast Asia?

Yes, they’re plentiful in major cities and around tourist attractions. They’re less common in smaller destinations and out of the way beach resorts. In the case of the latter, though, you will often find beach bars which offer basic bungalow type accommodation and have a hostel type vibe.

Should I stay in hostels, hotels or Airbnb?

Accommodation prices are lower in Southeast Asia, when compared to Europe. The choice between staying in hostels, Airbnbs or hotels is therefore less clear cut from a cost viewpoint. Nonetheless, hostels are still cheaper; they provide a much better opportunity to meet other travellers and are set up better to cater for the needs of backpackers. Many hostels have communal kitchens, arrange activities and offer other services such as laundry, etc. Also, even if you’re not happy sleeping in a shared dormitory, many hostels offer private rooms at competitive prices when compared to budget hotels and Airbnb. Hostels don’t, however, offer luxury accommodation. If you don’t want the company of others, but do want your own space, an en-suite bathroom and can afford it, you should perhaps opt for a hotel or Airbnb, rather than a hostel. The choice between hotels and Airbnb often comes down to length of stay and personal preference. In an Airbnb, though, you are often even more on your own.

What’s the easiest way to find out about hostels in Southeast Asia?

Most popular destinations in Southeast Asia have a plentiful supply of cheap hostels. Choosing which ones to book can feel like a minefield. Reading recommendations in travel blogs is one way forward, but always remember that the writer may be receiving a payment for their recommendations. Using accommodation booking websites such as Booking.com is another way forward. If you adopt a commonsense approach to reading reviews on such sites, you should be able to select suitable accommodation that meets your needs. The Golden Rule when reading reviews is that you should only select accommodation that is well reviewed (i.e. those that have over, say, 500 reviews). You should also be wary of reviews that predominantly praise the friendliness of the staff and say little else. You should also only select those hostels that have a high reader rating. Lastly, but most importantly, you should read all of the reviews and the property’s own detailed information and ensure that the accommodation meets your needs. Is it in the right location (near to the station, beach, etc.), does it have a lift, does it offer luggage storage, breakfast, a communal area, etc. Remember though, if you want cheap, you’ll probably get cheap.

Are hostels in Southeast Asia safe?

Yes. Most hostels are safe and cater specifically to international backpackers. Choose well-reviewed hostels, use lockers for valuables, and avoid leaving belongings unattended.

How do I keep my belongings safe when staying in hostels?

Small combination padlocks are essential for preventing access to your backpack and for securing lockers in dorm rooms.

Are hostel lockers large enough for backpacks?

Most hostels provide lockers for valuables and smaller backpacks, but not all lockers will fit a full-sized hiking backpack. Bringing your own padlock is recommended, and many travellers store larger bags in designated luggage rooms when available.

Do I need to book hostels in advance?

During peak season (November–March), it’s advisable to book a few days or weeks ahead, especially for popular destinations. During quieter periods, many travellers book only a few days in advance to keep their itinerary flexible.

Are hostel dorms mixed or single-sex?

Most hostels offer both mixed and female-only dormitories. Private rooms are also widely available for travellers wanting extra privacy.

Is it easy to sleep in hostel dorms and when travelling on buses?

Earplugs and a sleeping eye mask are critical for sleeping through noise in shared dorms and on night buses.

Is Wi-Fi available in hostels?

Nearly all hostels provide free Wi-Fi. Speeds are usually sufficient for messaging and streaming, although remote workers should check reviews for reliability before booking.

What are the best party hostels versus quieter hostels?

Party hostels are ideal if you’re looking to socialise, enjoy organised pub crawls, live music, and nightlife. Mad Monkey hostels seem to fall into this category. Quieter hostels tend to be those that are located slightly outside the main tourist hotspots and / or genuinely promote eco-tourism. These hostels are better suited to travellers who want a relaxed atmosphere, good sleep, or remote working facilities. The best way to differentiate is to carefully read recent reviews to find the right fit for you. Also remember, hostel atmospheres can change over time.

Do I need a work permit to operate as a Digital Nomad in Southeast Asia?

No, as long as you’re not working for a local employer, you don’t require a work permit to operate as a Digital Nomad. However, if you intend to stay in the country for any period of time, you may need to apply for a Digital Nomad visa rather than a tourist visa. To obtain a Digital Nomad visa, you usually have to provide proof of stable income, some form of remote work verification, proof of health insurance coverage and a clean criminal record. Once granted, a Digital Nomad visa allows you to stay for a longer period than a normal tourist visa.

Should I travel with a backpack or suitcase?

Most travellers advise using a 40-50 litre travel backpack rather than a wheeled suitcase because of the difficulty in manoeuvring a wheeled suitcase on unpaved roads, sandy island beaches, and stairs in budget hostels and hotels.

Are there any advantages in using a hybrid wheeled trolley backpack instead of a suitcase or conventional backpack?

If you are young, fit and capable of lifting and carrying a conventional backpack, then that should be your choice. However, if you are older, struggle to carry a backpack for long periods of time, and intend to travel mainly in urban areas, then a hybrid trolley backpack is an alternative worth considering. Generally, for people in this situation, a hybrid trolley backpack provides much more flexibility than a wheeled suitcase. However, the framed structure needed within a hybrid trolley backpack makes it heavier and less comfortable to carry. In addition, hybrid trolley backpacks are difficult to manoeuvre on unpaved roads, sandy island beaches and stairs within budget hostels and hotels.

What size backpack should I bring?

Most hostel backpackers use a 40–50 litre backpack. This provides enough space for several weeks of travel while remaining comfortable to carry and, in many cases, suitable for cabin baggage.

Can I travel with only a carry-on backpack?

Yes. Many experienced backpackers travel with a 35–45 litre backpack that meets airline cabin baggage requirements. Travelling light makes it easier to move between hostels, use public transport, and avoid checked baggage fees.

Are there any guidelines regarding the recommended maximum weight for a fully loaded backpack?

Yes, it is widely accepted that, for reasons of comfort, the fully laden weight of a backpack should be limited to around 20 per cent of the weight of the person carrying it.

Do I need to carry a day bag, in addition to my backpack?

Yes, carrying a 10 to 20 litre day bag, in addition to your backpack, is generally a good idea. This allows you to keep all of your most important items in an easily locatable location while travelling and can be used as a stand alone bag when out sightseeing. Typically, the day bag should contain items such as your phone, camera, sunglasses, sun hat, etc. A more extensive discussion on the role of the day bag and its contents can be found here.

What Should I Pack?

Pack light. Essentials include breathable clothing, flip-flops, trainers, a lightweight rain jacket, universal travel adapter, microfibre towel, padlock, power bank, toiletries, and basic medication. An accompanying post, found here, provides a much more detailed list of what you should pack, broken down into detailed sections on clothing, shoes, toiletries, electronics, paperwork, personal items, etc.

How many clothes should I pack?

Pack for only one to two weeks. Local laundry services are very cheap and fast across Southeast Asia, meaning you do not need six months of clothes. Recommendations for a clothes packing list can be found here.

Should I bring jeans with me while travelling?

No, jeans are too heavy, hot, and slow to dry in the humid climate. Recommendations for a clothes packing list can be found here.

If I am going to stay in hostels, are there any things that I need to pack to make my travels easier?

Yes, unlike hotels, many hostels don’t provide towels or bed linen. You will also need combination padlocks to secure your luggage. Items like packing cubes, a laundry bag and a simple cutlery / crockery set might also be useful. A full list of recommendations of essentials to pack to survive hostel life can be found here.

Do I need to bring lots of toiletries with me from home?

Basic items like shampoo, soap, and toothpaste are cheap and sold everywhere, but things like high-strength DEET bug spray, reliable sunscreen, and specific menstrual products can be expensive or hard to find. Recommendations for a toiletries packing list can be found here.

What should I include within a First Aid kit?

Most over the counter first aid kits just include basic equipment such as bandages, plasters, scissors, etc. However, if you plan to set off backpacking around Southeast Asia, there are several other over the counter medical items that you should add to your first aid kit. These include items such as painkillers, oral rehydration salts and antihistamines. A full list of these additional items can be found here.

What electronics items do I need to take with me?

In this day and age, carrying electronic equipment with you while travelling in Southeast Asia is a given. However, it’s important to ensure that you pack what you really need and that you leave the game box at home. Essentials include items like a smartphone, phone charger, universal travel adapter and a backup power bank. Other things like a Kindle, camera and tracker tags may also be useful. A full list of recommended electronics can be found here.

Are there any other personal items that I should pack?

You should generally limit what you carry with you to the basic essentials. Nonetheless, it might be worth packing sunglasses, reading glasses, a backup pair of everyday glasses, a sun hat and a notebook and pen. In addition, if you have room, a dry bag for boat trips, a head torch, a pack of playing cards and a snorkelling mask might come in handy.

Are there other things that I need to sort out and carry with me?

Yes, in order to travel you need to arrange and carry your passport, visas, flight and accommodation confirmations, travel insurance, driving licence, International Driving Permit, credit cards and money. A full list of such travel documents can be found here.

Can I travel with contact lenses in Southeast Asia?

Yes, but it’s likely to be a bit of a chore. Glasses are often a more practical solution, but if you’re wedded to your contact lenses, it’s not impossible. If you have daily lenses, then the equipment will take up valuable backpack space. Monthly lenses, by contrast, may be more difficult to keep clean. On the plus side, cleaning solution is generally available in pharmacies in most large Southeast Asian cities. Whatever you decide, take a pair of conventional glasses with you as a back-up.