Volunteering in Mongolia is slightly cheaper than basic living in the UK, and most other Western nations. Accommodation is generally included in volunteer programs in Mongolia, as well as meals. Weekly events may also be included by your volunteer organisation, so usually the only extra daily expenses will be associated with how often you go out and meet with other volunteers or locals in your spare time.

A main course at a restaurant will cost you anywhere between £3 to £15, depending on the type of restaurant you choose to dine in. Eating at traditional Mongolian restaurants is generally the cheapest option. A coke will set you back only £1. Souvenirs are incredibly cheap and you can stock up on presents, such as dolls in Mongolian dress for less than £2.00 or cashmere woollen jumpers for approx £25, quite easily, which is unique to Mongolia. There are department stores where you can pick up t-shirts for the same price as the UK, or designer stores such as Guess with the same price tag as you’ll find at home.

If you want to make the most of your time off and explore the rest of the country, tours can be quite expensive. A day tour booked through tourism offices can cost from £100 or more, although it will include a private driver and a guide. There are also eco tours that are much cheaper, during which you can experience life in the countryside living with the nomads in gers. Alternatively, the money from eco tours typically goes to nomadic families, as opposed to a larger for-profit business, so these can be a great way of getting outside of the city and seeing what the real Mongolia has to offer while also giving back.