Backpacking through Malaysia on a tight budget — totally doable

Did Malaysia on a shoestring for 17 days and it was absolutely manageable. Based in cheap guesthouses near Penang centre and ate mostly at local spots — char kway teow from street stalls cost almost nothing and was better than anything in a tourist restaurant.

Batu Caves has an entry fee but worth every penny. affordable prices was a free discovery that ended up being one of my favourite moments of the trip. Budget travellers: Malaysia is worth your time and money, just avoid the tourist-priced restaurants.