Is $50 enough for Patagonia?

No. Patagonia (Chile/Argentina) is significantly more expensive than the Andean or Amazonian regions. Budget at least $80–$100 per day there.

How do I handle money?

Use a bank card that refunds ATM fees, like Charles Schwab. Always select 'decline conversion' at the ATM to let your home bank handle the exchange rate.

Should I fly between cities?

Only if you are short on time. Flights are faster but destroy a $50/day budget immediately.

Backpacking South America on $50 a Day

To stick to $50 USD per day, prioritize dorm beds in hostels, eat two meals a day from local markets or street vendors, and use overnight buses instead of flights to save on accommodation. Avoid Western-style restaurants and alcohol to keep your daily costs from ballooning.

Book beds in advance, pay upon arrival. Use booking platforms to find hostels with ratings above 8.5, but message them or check their own websites to see if the price is lower when paying cash at the front desk.
Master the 'Menu del Dia'. Eat your main meal between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Look for 'Menu del Dia' signs; this usually includes a soup, a main dish, and a juice for $3–$5.
Prioritize long-distance buses. Book 'Cama' (fully reclining) seats for overnight journeys. This replaces the cost of a hostel night and gets you to your next destination by morning.
Use local transport exclusively. Avoid taxis or Ubers for long distances. Use local 'colectivos' (minibuses) or public city buses. In cities like Medellin or Lima, use the metro or BRT systems.

Is $50 enough for Patagonia?: No. Patagonia (Chile/Argentina) is significantly more expensive than the Andean or Amazonian regions. Budget at least $80–$100 per day there.
How do I handle money?: Use a bank card that refunds ATM fees, like Charles Schwab. Always select 'decline conversion' at the ATM to let your home bank handle the exchange rate.
Should I fly between cities?: Only if you are short on time. Flights are faster but destroy a $50/day budget immediately.