If you’re getting major FOMO from your mates that won’t stop talking about their upcoming travel plans, or won’t stop posting their cocktails by the beach, don’t fret.

Thanks to the exciting world of exchange rates, you’re about to learn how to make your budget stretch further than your yoga instructor can.

Unfortunately, the Australian dollar hasn’t been at its strongest over the past couple of years, which means you don’t get as much bang for your buck in many countries like England, or the US.

But don’t let that stop you from your getaway, because there are a number of countries where you’ll get more bang for your buck with the Aussie dollar.

1. Japan

If you’ve dreamt of seeing Mt Fuji, tasting the best Ramen in the world, or living Mario Kart in real life, this is your sign.

At the moment, $1 is equal to around 103 Japanese Yen. To put it another year, the Yen hit a 34 year low earlier this year compared to the Aussie dollar

A three course meal at a mid-range restaurant for two people will cost just under $60 in Japan, whereas in Australia that would cost you around $132.50.

BRB, going to book leave.

2. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s often been a bit of an underrated travel destination in South East Asia, but it’s quickly been rising in popularity. At the moment, $1 buys roughly 200 Sri Lankan rupees.

This insane exchange rate is due to an economic crisis in Sri Lanka, with the currency going from one of the best-performing currencies in Asia to one of the worst in 2023.

But tourism is huge for Sri Lanka. As the country’s third largest export-earner, tourism is a key industry in Sri Lanka’s economic growth.

In Sri Lanka, a three course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant will cost you around 3,000 Sri Lankan rupees, or roughly $15.20.

Also, the beaches there are chefs kiss.

3. Vietnam

$1 is equal to 16,799 Vietnamese dong at the time of writing.

Travelling in Vietnam means dealing with denominations in hundreds of thousands and millions, and your head will be spinning like it did when you first tried to learn algebra.

But travelling in Vietnam also means your Australian currency will get you major on-the-ground bargains.

In Vietnam, you’ll be coughing up a casual $2.50 for a Vietnamese coffee, or a meal from a street vendor for under $5.

4. India

Getting to India might put a bit of a dent in your wallet, but once you're there, you’ll find it to be pretty budget friendly.

The Aussie dollar is currently pretty strong compared to the Indian rupee (54 rupees to $1).

Even in India’s most expensive city of Mumbai, a three course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will only set you back about $30.

There are even more budget-friendly options in smaller cities and off-the-beaten-track areas.

5. Sweden and Norway

Okay yes, these countries aren’t exactly cheap, and you won’t necessarily get to stretch an Aussie dollar the same way you can in some of the other countries on this list.

But, the Aussie dollar is soaring at a 10-year-high against the Swedish krona and the Norwegian krone. 

Which means, Aussie currency will be able to buy more in Norway and Sweden than it’s been able to in the last 10 years.

So if you missed seeing the Aura Australis, now could be your chance to go see the northern freaking lights.