Budget holidays in Asia

Although we might equate Asia on a budget with independent backpacking, it might come as a surprise to hear that doing it yourself isn't always the most cost effective option. Of course, we can all save up some cash, book a flight to Koh Samui and bum about on a beach for a couple of weeks living off sticky rice and mangos – sounds quite nice actually – however, will you get much more from the experience other than a sun tan and a few extra friends on Facebook?

A budget trip to Asia, we think, should also include opportunities to meet local people who aren't living in backpacker zones or crowded tourist areas. The hosts at a family-run guesthouse or in a village homestay, for instance, or a local guide who is willing to show you around and take you to places that aren't making a living solely from their inclusion in Lonely Planet.

Small group tours are especially cost effective as you're sharing the expense of transportation, guided tours and accommodation but not to the detriment of local people – quite the opposite. They are brilliant for solo travellers, providing a ready made group of friends, and anyone travelling solo can make their holiday budget stretch further by sharing a twin bedroom with another member of the group of the same sex. Alternatively, they can splash out and opt for a single supplement if they think they'd prefer their own space.

Small groups in Asia also benefit from a tour leader to help everyone get orientated and to help in the event of something going wrong. Sometimes having your own translator, who knows the lay of the land, can really give first-time travellers, and old hands, a confidence boost when it comes to exploring further and trying things they might not feel comfortable with if travelling on their own.

Tailor made tours can also be surprisingly affordable in comparison to DIY alternatives, especially when you take into account everything that can be included – entrance fees, local guides, accommodation, border crossing assistance and transfers, for example. This type of tour also leaves you with more time to have fun and experience Asia, rather than waiting around in queues all day.

Private and public transport will also be included as part of a tailor made tour. This means you don't have to worry about the costs of travelling between locations and you can also arrive safe in the knowledge that you'll be staying somewhere locally owned so your money goes back into helping the local economy.

Having transportation included on a trip to Asia is the best way to ensure you can keep a check on your finances whilst away from home. Airport transfers, lengthy overland journeys in safety checked private vehicles and tickets for public transport can all add up if you haven't included them in your budget in advance. Sometimes budget tours will also include cost effective public transport passes such as the Tokyo Pasmo card or the Hakone Freepass which includes everything from buses and trains to cable cars and boat rides. Overnight sleeper trains are also an incredibly authentic way to get around in Asian countries, including Thailand, Vietnam and China. They also save you money on accommodation as well as saving you time, since you’re travelling at night with your days free to explore.