How to plan a 2-month backpacking trip through Southeast Asia
Focus your route on a loop through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia to minimize travel fatigue. Budget for $45 per day and rely on overnight buses and budget airlines to keep costs down while covering ground.
- Map your 'Banana Pancake Trail' route. Start in Bangkok. Head north through Thailand to Laos (Luang Prabang), move into Vietnam (Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City), cross into Cambodia (Phnom Penh and Siem Reap), and loop back to Thailand. This creates a logical geographic circle that avoids expensive backtracking.
- Secure your multi-entry visas early. Apply for Vietnam's e-visa 3 weeks before departure. Check Thailand's exemption status for your nationality, and prepare $30-$40 in crisp USD bills for Cambodia and Laos visas-on-arrival.
- Book your first and last nights. Don't book your entire 60 days. Book your first 2 nights in Bangkok and your last 2 nights before your flight home. Leave the middle open so you can stay longer in places you love or leave early if you aren't feeling the vibe.
- Sort your finances. Get a bank card that refunds international ATM fees (like Charles Schwab). Keep a backup debit card in a separate bag. Always decline the ATM's 'conversion rate' offer; let your home bank handle the exchange.
- Do I need to book buses weeks in advance?
- No. Booking 24-48 hours ahead via 12Go.asia or your hostel reception is sufficient for almost all routes.
- Is it safe to travel solo?
- Yes. Southeast Asia is a well-trodden path. Use common sense, keep your passport locked, and trust your gut.