Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro in February is the ultimate budget traveler's adrenaline rush. With Carnival currently in full swing, the city is a non-stop 'Bloco' (street party) where the entertainment is free and the energy is unmatched. For a backpacker, the vibe is intensely social, though you'll need to have booked your bed months in advance for this specific week. Street food is your best friend right now; grab a 'coxinha' or a 'pão de queijo' from a corner lanchonete to keep costs down without sacrificing flavor. Free activities are everywhere, from hiking up to the Morro da Urca for sunset views to lounging on the public sands of Ipanema and Copacabana. To save money, stick to the metro rather than Ubers, which are currently surging in price. Stay in Botafogo or Catete to find the best balance of affordable hostels and local life away from the extreme markup of the beachfront. Expect to spend about $42 a day if you're smart, which includes your hostel bed, three cheap meals, and enough 'Caipirinhas' from street vendors to keep the party going. Just remember to keep your phone tucked away and only carry the cash you need for the day.