Planning an international trip can feel overwhelming, especially when you are working with a mid-sized budget. The fear of overspending or watching your savings disappear in one go often pushes travellers to stick to domestic locations instead. But sometimes, all it takes is a little smart planning and a willingness to be flexible to turn a dream trip into an affordable reality.
Travel content creator Ashvini Sihra recently shared her experience of solo travelling across Malaysia on a budget of just ₹50,000. Her week-long journey took her from the bustling cityscape of Kuala Lumpur to the scenic calm of Penang Island. What made her trip stand out was how she managed to include flights, food, accommodation and even fun activities within such a modest amount.
Ashvini’s biggest win came from planning ahead. Her return flights from Bengaluru to Kuala Lumpur cost her ₹21,500, while a round trip from Kuala Lumpur to Penang added just ₹6,000 to her expenses. She also pointed out that train travel within Malaysia is not only cheaper than flights but takes roughly the same amount of time, offering another way to cut down costs.
When it came to accommodation, she stayed in hostels located in Kuala Lumpur and Georgetown, spending just ₹6,000 in total for five nights. These stays were clean, safe, and community-driven, perfect for solo travellers looking to meet new people and stay close to popular tourist areas.
Getting around cities like KL and Penang was affordable too. She used public buses, cabs and express airport trains, spending ₹5,500 in total for local commute. It helped her balance comfort with cost while still having access to the best experiences each city had to offer.
Food was another category where Ashvini struck a great balance. She indulged in everything from street food and local joints to cute cafés and the occasional fancy solo date at a nice restaurant. Her total food expenses for the trip came to ₹6,500, proof that you don’t need to sacrifice good food to stick to your budget.
Instead of filling her itinerary with costly tickets and guided tours, Ashvini focused on exploring Malaysia’s rich culture and free-to-explore attractions. She spent just ₹3,400 on activities, including a cycle tour and a funicular ride to Penang Hill. The rest of her adventures were built around walking tours, local markets and soaking in the vibe of each city at her own pace.
Even staying connected was economical. She purchased an eSIM via Klook for ₹549, which gave her 7 days of data access. While the pack did not include calling, it was more than enough to navigate, book rides, and stay connected online.
All in all, Ashvini’s trip is a reminder that budget travel does not mean missing out. With some research, a bit of flexibility and a clear idea of priorities, you can enjoy a fulfilling international travel experience without breaking the bank.
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