Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Papuanewguinea

Accommodation

$15-35 per night

Basic guesthouses, backpacker lodges, shared facilities, fan-cooled rooms in local areas

Food & Dining

$8-20 per day

Local markets, street food stalls, betel nut vendors, simple rice and vegetable dishes, occasional restaurant meal

Transportation

$3-12 per day

Public buses (PMVs), walking, occasional shared taxi, inter-city buses

Activities

$0-15 per day

Free beaches, hiking trails, local markets, occasional cultural site entry, community visits

Eat at local markets and street stalls instead of tourist restaurants (typically 60-80% cheaper)

Use public PMV buses for city transport instead of taxis (usually 80-90% savings)

Stay in local guesthouses outside main tourist areas (generally 40-60% less expensive)

Book domestic flights well in advance during low season (can save 30-50%)

Join group tours rather than private tours (typically 50-70% cost reduction)

Shop at local markets for souvenirs instead of hotel gift shops (usually 70-80% cheaper)

Travel during dry season shoulder months for better accommodation rates (generally 20-40% lower)

Relying only on taxis and private transport instead of learning the PMV system (can triple transportation costs)

Eating exclusively at hotels and tourist restaurants (typically doubles food expenses)

Not factoring in the high cost of domestic flights between provinces (can add $200-500 per flight)

Underestimating activity costs - many experiences require guides and permits (diving, trekking, cultural visits often $50-200+ per day)

Not budgeting for tips and custom fees which are expected in many situations (can add 15-25% to activity costs)