Malaysia on a budget

Cheapest months to go

Peak is January, February, March, June, July, August. The weeks either side of that window usually carry most of the weather with much less of the price.

Getting around for less

Realistic options in Malaysia:

• Budget airlines connect the peninsula with Borneo cheaply and frequently
• The ETS intercity train links Kuala Lumpur with Ipoh, Penang's mainland terminal and the north
• Long-distance coaches are comfortable and inexpensive across the peninsula
• Ride-hailing apps work well in cities and are cheaper than taxis
• Ferries serve Langkawi, Penang, Tioman and the Perhentians — schedules shrink in monsoon months

Where to base yourself

Fewer bases means fewer paid transfers. Kuala Lumpur, Penang & George Town, Langkawi cover a lot between them.