Travelling overseas doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. For Australians, many international destinations are surprisingly affordable thanks to the availability of best flight deals and favorable exchange rates.
Southeast Asia and the South Pacific offer excellent value with low flight costs and affordable living expenses, especially outside Australian school holidays during the dry season. Top budget-friendly destinations include Indonesia (Bali), Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka. Always look for cheap flights and favorable exchange rates to stretch your Aussie dollar further.
In Short
Australians can travel internationally without spending a fortune
Asia offers the best mix of affordability and experiences, making it the perfect mix of culture and value
Shorter flight routes help reduce airfare costs
Many destinations have low daily expenses for food and stays, with super cheap options at street stalls and vibrant markets
Smart planning makes international travel budget-friendly
Booking flights early with carriers like Jetstar and AirAsia can help secure cheap, direct flights
Traveling during off-peak seasons can yield better deals, fewer crowds, and Cheap International Flights from Australia.
With the right approach, you can enjoy a budget friendly trip to many international destinations, including some that are UNESCO World Heritage sites
Bali, Indonesia – Among Australia’s Favourite Cheap Destinations
Bali, located in the incredible country and island nation of Indonesia, continues to top the list for Australians looking for a quick and affordable overseas break. Its close distance from the Kangaroo land makes it easier to find Cheap Flights from Australia to Bali, while local costs remain low. Whether you want to relax on stunning beaches or explore vibrant culture, Bali fits almost every budget.
Short and frequent flights from Australia
Budget-friendly hotels, villas, and hostels
Affordable food, taxis, and activities like scuba diving and island hopping
Ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers
Perfect for budget Bali trips from Australia
Bali offers affordable luxury, including high end resorts, as well as plenty of budget options. The island is also famous for its cheap food, making it easy to enjoy delicious meals on a budget. Daily costs in Bali can fall under $50 AUD for Australian travelers. Its natural beauty and white sand beaches make it a perfect destination for any bucket list.
Thailand – Affordable, Fun, and Full of Variety
Thailand offers incredible value for money, making it one of the best budget travel destinations for Australians. From beautiful beaches and vibrant markets to bustling cities and ancient temples, everything feels accessible without overspending. It’s a great balance of comfort, culture, and affordability. Thailand is one of the top budget destinations in Southeast Asia, with daily costs often under $50 AUD for Australian travelers.
Competitive flight prices from Australia
Low-cost hotels and guesthouses
Delicious food, especially street food and quick snacks, at very low prices
Easy travel between cities and to beautiful beaches on the west coast and islands
Popular for cheap Thailand holidays from Australia
Vietnam – Big Experiences on a Small Budget
Vietnam is ideal for travelers who want culture, history, and nature without high costs. Daily expenses are low, making it perfect for longer stays. It’s one of the most affordable overseas destinations from Australia. Daily costs in Vietnam can fall under $50 AUD for Australian travelers. Like the Philippines, Vietnam offers budget-friendly accommodation, food, and transportation.
Budget hotels and homestays widely available
Cheap local transport and food, including cheap street food and vibrant street stalls
Famous for delicious meals and vibrant street food culture
Ho Chi Minh City is one of Vietnam’s vibrant cities and a key entry point for Australians
Rich history and scenic landscapes including UNESCO World Heritage sites
Great for backpackers and slow travelers
Known for affordable Vietnam travel from Australia
India – Deep Culture, Low Daily Costs
India is an incredible country that offers unmatched value, especially for travelers planning longer trips. With its rich cultural experience, India captivates visitors through its diverse cities and vibrant traditions. Mumbai, a bustling city, is worth exploring for its dynamic urban life. The country’s ancient temples are must-visit attractions, drawing those interested in history, architecture, and cultural exploration. India is ideal for travelers on a shoestring budget, thanks to its extensive rail network and affordable transportation options. While flights may vary in price, daily expenses remain very low. It’s a strong option for budget India trips from Australia.
Multiple flight routes from Australia
Very affordable accommodation and food
Diverse cities, culture, and experiences
Ideal for family visits and cultural travel
Excellent value for long stays
Malaysia – For a Simple and Budget-Friendly Bucket List
Malaysia is perfect for Australians who want an easy and affordable international trip. With easy access from Australia, Malaysia is a top choice for low-cost city breaks and budget-friendly getaways. It offers clean cities, good transport, and low costs. It’s often counted among the cheapest countries to visit from Australia.
Reasonably priced flights
Affordable hotels and apartments
Excellent public transport
Low-cost food options everywhere, including a vibrant street food scene and delicious food at local hawker centers
Local markets provide affordable, fresh produce and authentic cultural experiences, helping travelers save money while immersing themselves in Malaysian culture
Suitable for first-time international travelers
Sri Lanka – Compact, Calm, and Affordable
Sri Lanka is an island nation that offers great value across the board, with friendly locals welcoming visitors. Travel distances are short, helping keep costs down. The exchange rate for the Australian dollar is favorable in Sri Lanka, making it even more affordable for Aussie travelers. Sri Lanka is known for its great food and low cost of living, so it’s easy to find budget-friendly accommodation, transportation, and meals. It’s one of the cheap countries to travel from Australia with diverse experiences.
Budget guesthouses and homestays
Affordable local transport
Beaches, wildlife, and heritage sites including UNESCO World Heritage sites
Relaxed pace of travel
Ideal for budget-focused explorers
South Pacific Gems: Fiji, Vanuatu, and More Beautiful Beaches
For those seeking pristine blue waters and white sand beaches closer to home, the South Pacific offers lovely people, stunning beaches, and excellent value. Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands and Vanuatu’s Port Vila are perfect destinations for island hopping and scuba diving adventures. These places offer a perfect mix of natural beauty and affordable travel options, especially outside of peak Australian school holidays.
Affordable resorts and guesthouses
Cheap local transport and activities
Beautiful beaches and national parks to explore
Relaxed island lifestyle with friendly locals
Ideal for families and adventure seekers alike
New Zealand – Nature’s Playground
New Zealand’s north island and south island are renowned for their natural beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures. From stunning beaches to national parks, New Zealand offers a perfect destination for Australians seeking budget-friendly travel with plenty of free or low-cost activities. The country’s exchange rate and short flight times make it a popular and affordable choice.
Reasonably priced flights from Australia
Numerous national parks and outdoor activities
Vibrant cities with cultural attractions
Beautiful beaches and pristine landscapes
A must-visit on many travelers’ bucket lists
FAQs
I’m on a tight budget. Which country should I travel to first from Australia?
Bali and Thailand are great starting points because flights are frequent and daily expenses are low. Both offer vibrant street food scenes and stunning beaches.
Are cheap international destinations from Australia suitable for families?
Yes. Destinations like Bali, Malaysia, and Thailand are family-friendly and offer affordable stays and food, along with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities.
How can I reduce costs while traveling overseas from Australia?
Book early, watchout for flexible flight booking options, use local transport, and choose destinations with low daily expenses. Haggling is a common practice in markets and can help you save money while shopping. Street food and quick snacks from street stalls are a cheap and delicious option, often costing just a few dollars.
Is Asia the best option for international budget travel from Australia?
For most travelers, yes. Asian destinations offer shorter flight times and much lower costs on the ground. In many Asian countries, you can sleep and eat for less than £10 a day combined, making it possible to travel without breaking the bank.
Can I plan a budget overseas trip from Australia without compromising comfort?
Absolutely. Many destinations offer clean hotels, good food, and reliable transport at affordable prices, making them perfect destinations for budget-conscious Australians.
