2026-02-01 // INTELLIGENCE
How to Travel Malaysia on RM50 a Day
The ultimate guide to budget travel in Kuala Lumpur and Penang without sacrificing quality.
Traveling in Malaysia doesn’t need to break the bank. In fact, some of the best experiences—like street food in Penang or walking tours in Melaka—are incredibly affordable.
1. Accommodation Strategy
The biggest cost is usually where you sleep. But with the right strategy, you can find high-quality hostels or budget hotels for under RM50/night.
We recommend looking for “Flashpacker” hostels. These offer hotel-grade amenities (good WiFi, clean sheets, privacy curtains) at hostel prices.
Top Tip: Always book in advance if you are traveling during public holidays.
2. Transport Logistics
Skip the taxis. Malaysia’s public transport system, especially in KL, is world-class and cheap.
- MRT/LRT: Costs RM1 - RM5 per trip.
- Buses: GoKL buses are free in the city center.
- Intercity: Electric trains (ETS) are fast and comfortable.
3. The Food Hack
Eat like a local. A plate of Nasi Lemak or Char Kway Teow costs RM8-RM12 at a hawker center, compared to RM30+ at a cafe.
“The best food in Malaysia is found on plastic stools, not in air-conditioned malls.”
Verification
If you follow this guide, your daily spend could look like this:
- Hostel: RM40
- Food: RM30
- Transport: RM10
- Total: RM80 (Okay, maybe RM80/day is more realistic for 2026).