Cheapest Countries to Visit from Australia – Guide for Budget Travellers

Your guide to the cheapest countries to visit from Australia, covering flight prices, daily budgets and top-value destinations.

The cheapest countries to visit from Australia are Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia, thanks to low flight prices, strong AUD exchange rates and very affordable daily costs. Most travellers can expect discounted return flights under $500 to $900 and daily budgets from $30 to $70, making these destinations the best value options for Australians looking for an overseas holiday without spending much.

Travelling overseas doesn’t have to be expensive. Here, I break down the cheapest countries to visit from Australia by comparing flight prices, daily budgets, accommodation, food and transport. It’s all about helping you choose destinations where your money goes further without sacrificing comfort or experience.

As Australians, we are lucky to have some of the world’s most affordable destinations right on our doorstep. From beachside breaks in Southeast Asia to cultural gems further afield, there are plenty of countries where the Aussie dollar still holds strong.

Many of the cheapest countries to visit from Australia are only a short flight away, which is what makes Asia such an appealing option for budget conscious travellers.

Over the years, we have spent months living and travelling through Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia, and it is easy to see why these countries are favourites for budget-conscious Aussies. Vietnam continues to offer some of the best value in Asia with fresh food, affordable stays and memorable experiences that come at a very low cost.

What Makes a Country Cheap to Visit from Australia? Key Factors Explained

When comparing the cheapest countries to visit from Australia, a few key factors make a big difference to what kind of value you realistically get for your budget.

A country ends up being truly budget friendly for a few reasons:

• Flights are reasonably priced from major Australian cities
• The exchange rate is in our favour
• Food, local transport, and activities are affordable
• Accommodation offers good value for money
• You can save even more by travelling in the shoulder seasons

To keep your costs down, consider booking flexible accommodation, travelling with an eSIM instead of roaming, and organising travel insurance before you go. These small things add up to big savings.

Here are the biggest factors that affect how affordable an overseas trip will be for Australians.

1. Airfare and Distance

The closer the destination, the cheaper the airfare. Flights to Southeast Asia are often much lower than long-haul flights to Europe or the Americas, and sales on budget airlines can make weekend escapes surprisingly affordable.

2. Exchange Rate

The strength of the Australian Dollar plays a huge role in how far your money goes. Countries with weaker currencies compared to the AUD usually mean better value for Aussie travellers.

3. Cost of Living

Everyday expenses like meals, local transport, attractions and accommodation can quickly add up. Choosing destinations with a lower cost of living means you can enjoy more for less.

4. Seasonal Prices

Travelling outside of peak season can make a big difference to your wallet. Shoulder and off-season months usually come with cheaper flights and accommodation, and more flexible booking options.

5. Visa and Travel Costs

Some countries are visa-free for Australians, while others charge entry fees or require pre-arranged visas. Always factor these into your overall budget before booking.

Cheapest Countries to Visit from Australia (Best Budget Picks)

If you are trying to narrow down the cheapest countries to visit from Australia, Asia is usually the place people start, mostly because there is such a good mix of beaches, culture and affordable cities.

1. Indonesia

Typical return flights: 300 to 700 AUD
Daily budget: 40 to 80 AUD
Best time to visit: April to October

Indonesia is the most affordable overseas holiday for Australians by far. Bali is the obvious favourite, but islands like Lombok and Nusa Penida are just as beautiful and often cheaper. You can eat incredible food, stay in lovely villas or guesthouses, explore beaches and waterfalls, and still spend far less than you would at home.

Why it is cheap:

• Short flights with lots of competition
• Very low food and transport costs
• Plenty of budget accommodation

Budget friendly picks:
Ubud, Canggu, Uluwatu, Nusa Lembongan, Gili Islands

2. Vietnam

Typical return flights: 450 to 900 AUD
Daily budget: 30 to 60 AUD
Best time to visit: Varies by region

Vietnam is one of the best value destinations on earth. The food is fresh and cheap, the accommodation is fantastic, and the landscapes are unforgettable. From Hanoi and Ha Long Bay to Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City, you can travel comfortably on a small budget.

Why it is cheap:

• Very affordable street food
• Cheap trains and internal flights
• Family-run homestays offering excellent value

Budget friendly picks:
Hoi An, Da Nang, Hanoi Old Quarter, Phu Quoc

3. Cambodia

Typical return flights: 600 to 950 AUD
Daily budget: 30 to 50 AUD
Best time to visit: November to April

Cambodia is one of the cheapest countries for Australians. Siem Reap is home to Angkor Wat, while Phnom Penh offers riverfront dining, markets, and easy day trips.

Why it is cheap:

• Independent guesthouses at reasonable prices
• Cheap meals and transport
• Low cost of activities and tours

Budget friendly picks:
Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Kampot

4. Thailand

Typical return flights: 500 to 900 AUD
Daily budget: 40 to 70 AUD
Best time to visit: November to April

Thailand is ideal for beach lovers who want plenty of variety without high prices. You can relax in Phuket, visit the limestone cliffs of Krabi, or escape the heat in the northern mountains around Chiang Mai. Friendly locals, delicious food, and affordable massage and spa treatments make it a favourite for Australians.

Why it is cheap:

• Very affordable food and drinks
• Cheap transport between regions
• Plenty of affordable mid range hotels

Budget friendly picks:
Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Koh Tao

5. Malaysia

Typical return flights: 450 to 850 AUD
Daily budget: 40 to 70 AUD
Best time to visit: December to March

Malaysia is great for travellers who love food, city life, nature, and beaches. Kuala Lumpur is an easy and cheap city to explore, while Penang offers culture and cuisine at amazing prices.

Why it is cheap:

• Excellent street food for a few dollars
• Budget airlines for internal travel
• Strong value accommodation

Budget friendly picks:
Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi

6. Philippines

Typical return flights: 550 to 900 AUD
Daily budget: 40 to 80 AUD
Best time to visit: December to May

The Philippines requires a little more planning, but once you arrive, it is very good value and continues to be a top choice among the cheapest countries for Australians to visit thanks to its great value island experiences. Many islands offer affordable guesthouses, cheap tours, and stunning beaches.

Why it is cheap:

• Low food and activity costs
• Island hopping tours at great prices
• Guesthouses and homestays to suit small budgets

Budget friendly picks:
Cebu, Bohol, El Nido, Coron

7. Sri Lanka

Typical return flights: 750 to 1100 AUD
Daily budget: 30 to 50 AUD
Best time to visit: December to April or May to September depending on coast

Sri Lanka is a great alternative to Southeast Asia. You can enjoy cultural sites, beaches, wildlife, and tea country scenery at very affordable prices.

Why it is cheap:

• Cheap intercity trains
• Very affordable local food
• Low cost of accommodation outside resorts

Budget friendly picks:
Ella, Galle, Mirissa, Kandy

8. Nepal

Typical return flights: 800 to 1200 AUD
Daily budget: 25 to 40 AUD
Best time to visit: October to November and March to April

Nepal is one of the cheapest countries in the world. Whether you want to hike or simply explore Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will find great value everywhere.

Why it is cheap:

• Extremely low daily costs
• Affordable trekking packages
• Cheap meals and guesthouses

Budget friendly picks:
Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan

9. Fiji

Typical return flights: 450 to 850 AUD
Daily budget: 60 to 120 AUD (cheaper on local islands)
Best time to visit: May to October

Fiji might surprise you. While luxury resorts can be expensive, the local islands, guesthouses, and day trips are very affordable. If you look beyond the big-name resorts, you can have an incredible beach holiday for less than you think.

Why it is cheap:

• Frequent flight sales
• Local islands and homestays offer great value
• Many free or low cost activities

Budget friendly picks:
Nadi, Coral Coast, Mamanuca Islands

10. India

Typical return flights: 700 to 1100 AUD
Daily budget: 20 to 40 AUD
Best time to visit: October to March

India is one of the best value destinations Australians can visit. It is vibrant, busy, full of colour, and packed with incredible experiences for a very small daily budget. Whether you want beaches, mountains, safaris, temples, or food adventures, India offers huge variety without a huge price tag.

Why it is cheap:

• Extremely low food and accommodation costs
• Affordable internal flights and trains
• Excellent value for long stay travel
• Wide range of budget guesthouses and homestays

Budget friendly picks:
Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Rishikesh, Goa, Kerala

Budget Comparison Table

Country	Flight Range (AUD)	Daily Budget (AUD)	Best Time to Visit
Indonesia	300 to 700	40 to 80	April to October
Vietnam	450 to 900	30 to 60	Varies by region
Cambodia	600 to 950	30 to 50	November to April
Thailand	500 to 900	40 to 70	November to April
Malaysia	450 to 850	40 to 70	December to March
Philippines	550 to 900	40 to 80	December to May
Sri Lanka	750 to 1100	30 to 50	Seasonal
Nepal	800 to 1200	25 to 40	October to November
Fiji	450 to 850	60 to 120	May to October
India	700 to 1100	20 to 40	October to March

Tips to Travel Overseas Cheaply from Australia

Travelling internationally does not have to mean blowing the budget. With a few smart strategies, you can enjoy an amazing holiday without sacrificing comfort or experiences.

1. Use Frequent Flyer Points

Redeem points for flights whenever possible. It is one of the easiest ways to save hundreds, especially on long-haul trips. We have and continue to use Frequent Flyer points to fund a lot of our travels.

As Australians our favourite program is the Qantas Frequent Flyer program and over the years, we have accumulated enough points for many Asian and European trips.

As Qantas is part of the One World alliance, we can earn points with a multitude of airlines and coupled with points earned for everyday expenses without flying the points quickly add up.

If you have not yet embraced accumulating Frequent Flyer points, we suggest you investigate the benefits, as you may be surprised how easy these can be to obtain. Once you have enough points and are able to redeem them for flights, you can save considerable amounts on airfares.  

You can stretch your points even further by being flexible with travel dates and booking early, especially for premium cabins. Many programs also offer “points plus pay” options, which let you part-pay with cash when you do not have the full amount.

2. Travel in the Off-Season

Flights and accommodation are cheaper outside school holidays. If you can take advantage of off-season travel you will enjoy smaller crowds and better deals.

Shoulder seasons are often the sweet spot. The weather is still good, but prices drop dramatically once peak holiday traffic ends. Many destinations also run sales during quieter months to attract visitors, which means better hotel upgrades, cheaper tours and more flexibility with bookings. Just be sure to check local climate patterns so you avoid severe monsoon seasons or extreme heat.

3. Compare Flight Deals to Cheap Countries

Check multiple airlines and booking platforms.

It is also worth checking flights from nearby airports or considering a mix-and-match approach where you fly one airline out and another back. Sometimes a slight shift in your dates, even by a day or two, can reduce fares by hundreds. Tools that show price calendars or “everywhere” searches are useful for spotting unexpected bargains.

4. Choose Affordable Accommodation

Look for family-run guesthouses and mid range hotels that include breakfast or free cancellation. Our favourite hotel booking site is booking.com as they have the largest selection of hotels.

We often filter our search results for options we consider important to us and check reviews on both Booking.com and Tripadvisor. Although reviews are not always accurate you can normally get a feel for the quality of the hotel.

Another great option is to stay slightly outside major tourist hubs. A short walk or a few minutes on public transport can reduce accommodation costs significantly.

If you’re staying for a longer period, consider serviced apartments or homestays where kitchen access can help you save on meals.

5. Keep an Eye on Exchange Rates

Monitor the Aussie dollar’s performance and use multi-currency travel cards to avoid high conversion fees. This is so important if you are budget conscious. We now travel almost exclusively with our Wise card as we have found they offer the best currency conversion rates.

If you would like to learn more about the benefits of Wise Cards and if it could be a good fit for you check here for all the details. The card is free and saves us a lot of money.

If your destination uses a currency that fluctuates often, consider topping up your card when the rate is strong and locking it in. Although we rarely take cash and prefer to use our Wise card if you are taking cash avoid airport exchanges, as they usually offer the worst rates.

When using credit cards always choose to pay in the local currency rather than selecting AUD at checkout. This can avoid hidden conversion markups. Small habits like these can save you more than you expect over a long trip.

Check to see if a Wise card is right for you

6. Eat Like a Local

Street food and local cafés often serve better meals for a fraction of the cost of tourist restaurants. We like to immerse ourselves in the local culture and trying the local food is part of the travel experience.

Often the best food can be found at the places where the locals eat, so do not be afraid to try the small local eateries or street stalls. Usually the food is fresh, delicious and cheaper than brand name or hotel restaurants.

A simple rule is to follow the locals. If a place is busy and turning over food quickly, it is usually a good sign. Trying local markets is also a great way to eat cheaply and sample traditional dishes you may not find in tourist areas.

If you’re unsure where to start, ask your accommodation staff or join a local food tour early in your trip so you know what’s safe, what’s popular and what to look for.

Tip:
Before heading overseas, it is worth investing in practical gear. Check our guide to the best range of luggage for all your travel needs.

Cheapest Beach Destinations to Visit from Australia

If you are chasing sunshine on a budget, these beach destinations often offer the best value:

• Indonesia
• Vietnam
• Thailand
• Philippines
• Malaysia
• Fiji

For a full breakdown of flights, daily budgets and the best beach areas to stay, see our cheap beach destinations from Australia guide.

FAQs

What are the cheapest countries to visit from Australia right now?

Many of the cheapest countries to visit from Australia include Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand, where flights are affordable and daily costs stay low.

This guide focuses on the cheapest countries to visit from Australia and highlights where the dollar stretches the furthest.

Which month is best to travel from Australia for lower prices?

February, March and May often have the best deals, especially if you want to visit popular destinations without paying peak season rates.

Do the cheapest options usually include Southeast Asian countries?

Yes, most of the best value places Australians visit tend to be in Southeast Asia because flights are competitive and everyday costs are low.

Is it affordable to visit more than one country in a single trip?

Absolutely. Once you fly out of Australia, many nearby countries are linked by budget airlines, making multi stop trips an easy way to save.

Final Thoughts – The Cheapest Countries to Visit from Australia

If you are comparing the cheapest countries to visit from Australia, the destinations in this guide offer some of the strongest value for food, transport and accommodation.

There are plenty of places where you can enjoy a proper holiday without spending a fortune, especially if you focus on the cheapest regions to visit once you leave Australia. Whether you want beaches, culture, city life or slow travel, the countries in this guide offer great value and incredible experiences.

Choose the destination that suits your style, look for flight deals and take advantage of local transport and flexible stays to keep your trip affordable.

If you want more ideas, you can also explore my guide to cheap holiday destinations from Australia.

After spending extended time across Asia, my personal ranking for value remains Vietnam first, followed closely by Thailand. Both countries consistently deliver excellent food, comfortable stays and memorable experiences at prices that make it easy to return again and again.

The key takeaway is that cheap travel is not about cutting corners. It is about choosing destinations where your dollar works harder. Combine that with a few smart travel habits like booking in the off-season or using Frequent Flyer Points, and the world suddenly feels a lot more affordable.

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