Top 11 Cheap Countries To Visit From Australia: Escape on a Budget

 

As an Aussie traveller, you may look for budget-friendly tourist destinations offering distinctive experiences and vast cultural heritage.

 

Luckily, many destinations near Australia won't break the bank and fit your perfect holiday destination description.

 

This blog shares the top cheap countries to visit from Australia to have an affordable holiday on a low budget.

 

 

1. Indonesia (Bali)

 

 

This tourist hotspot is a world-famous holiday destination well-known for its stunning beach resorts, nightlife, fascinating culture, and volcanoes. If you venture further, you will find lush rice fields, volcanoes, more than 10,000 ancient temples, and waterfalls.

 

Out of 17,500 islands, Bali is a must-visit destination for Australians for its affordable accommodations and food. You can find luxury housing with concierge services for as low as $20.

 

You should plan to spend around $47 per day on your vacation in Indonesia. It includes $12 on meals and $6.07 on local transportation for one day.

 

As Indonesia is a tropical paradise near the equator, the temperature here rarely exceeds 23 C! Families can enjoy the beaches and waterparks.

 

The groups will have fun exploring the restaurants, bars, clubs, and solo travellers will be amazed by the peaceful yoga retreats, incredible adventure tours, and the usual warm and hospitable atmosphere.

 

 

How To Reach

 

You can get a direct flight to Bali from each major city in Australia. The starting price for a direct flight ticket (Darwin) to Indonesia is $155. Besides reasonably-priced flights, you can also get affordable hotels, bungalows, villas offering concierge services, and private pools.

 

 

Best Time To Visit

 

March to June and September to November.

 

 

Major Attractions

 

• Beaches of Bali – Kuta, Sanur, Nusa Dua

• Borobudur

• Tanjung Putting National Park

• Komodo National Park

• Gili Islands

• Sacred Monkey Forest

• Mount Bromo, Krakatau and Semeru

• Bukit Baka-Bukit Raya National Park

• Lake Toba

• Jatiluwih Rice Fields

• Rinjani National Park 

 

 

2. Nadi, Fiji

 

 

This world-popular, majestic palm-tree paradise can easily be one of the cheapest overseas holidays from Australia. If you desire a holiday that isn't loaded with tourists and promises incredible beauty, then Fiji is the place for you.

 

From rejuvenating on silvery sand beaches and azure waters to hiking through lush rainforests and emerald forests and swimming in fish-filled lagoons, Fiji is the short-haul destination to beat. The country comprises over 300 islands, including the Yasawa, Mamanuca, and Viti Levu.

 

Furthermore, the climate will satisfy you as the temperature never falls below 19 C, even during winter. Several top outer island hotels with dorm room options can offer you a life of luxury for less. Viti Levu (Fiji's main island) is the best place to find cheap hotels for a budget holiday.

 

You should plan to spend approx. $136 a day on your vacation in Nadi (Port Denarau. It includes $32 for meals and $7.25 for local transportation for one day.

 

 

How To Reach

 

Fiji is well-connected to Australia through the airways. The starting price for a direct flight plane ticket from Sydney is $339. It would be best to book a flight during the "off-season" period, i.e., October or early November.

 

 

Best Time To Visit

 

September through early November. 

 

 

Major Attractions

 

• Wailoaloa Beach

• Denarau Island

• Blue Lagoon Cruise

• Kula Wild Adventure Park and Kila Eco Adventure Park

• Sabeto Hot Springs 

• Beqa Island and Beqa Lagoon Shark Dive

• Mud Pool

• Navua River

• Pacific Harbour 

• Sri Siva Subrama Swami Temple

• Fiji Culture Village and handicraft market

• Local food market to relish unusual foods and Kava, including the Fijian national drink.

• Also, Fijians celebrate various festivals and holidays that you should take advantage of. 

 

 

3. New Zealand

 

 

Snow-clad peaks, mesmerizing landscapes, white powder getaways, sparkling coves, year-round cultural festivals, inspiring M?ori culture, coastal glaciers, fjords, and fish-filled rivers, there is always a Kiwi adventure to experience.

 

Queenstown in New Zealand is famous for being the Adventure Capital of the World. With plenty of adrenaline sports, the place is a hot spot for adrenaline junkies.

 

White water rafting, jet boating, heli-skiing, horse riding, snorkelling, luging, hiking, mountain biking, and skydiving make it the home of the highest bungee jumps in the world.

 

You should plan to spend approx. $106 per day on your vacation in New Zealand. It includes $24 on meals and $16 on local transportation for one day. Also, the average price of hotel accommodation for a couple in New Zealand is $110.

 

 

How To Reach

 

Strategically, New Zealand is a breeze to travel around. The diverse accommodations range from eco-lodges and quaint bed-and-breakfast inns to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world.

 

The country is one of the cheapest places to fly to from Melbourne. You can take a direct flight from Melbourne to reach this destination. The starting price for a direct flight ticket from Melbourne is $262.

 

 

Best Time To Visit

 

June to August is the best time for budget travel.

 

 

Major Attractions

 

• Fiordland National Park 

• Bay of Islands

• Queenstown

• Lake Taupo

• Tongariro National Park

• Rotorua

• Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers

• Abel Tasman National Park

• Abel Tasman Coast Track

• Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

• Napier, Hawke's Bay

• 328-meter Sky Tower, Auckland

• Coromandel Peninsula

• Kaikoura

 

 

4. Singapore

 

 

Singapore is among the easiest countries to travel to from Australia and navigate in Southeast Asia. The country is a heaven for foodies, as they can find well-known dishes to delight their taste buds, including chilli crab, roti prata, Hainanese chicken rice, and much more.

 

Singapore is an uncommon modern-day marvel of vacation and fun for its mesmerizing blend of unending green and stunning skyscrapers with many cultural events and festivals.

 

A revolutionary architectural landmark in the tropical islands makes the country a refreshing change from typical landmarks and sights.

 

You should plan to spend approx. $124 per day on your vacation in Singapore. It includes $22 for meals and $8.33 for local transportation for one day. Also, the average price of hotel accommodation in Singapore for a couple is $156.

 

 

How To Reach

 

Singapore Airlines and Scoot operate flights to and from Australia at affordable prices.

 

Scoot's starting price for a one-way air journey from Melbourne to Singapore is $149 Scoot. You can also board a flight from Sydney to Singapore at $199 with Scoot. Alternatively, you can catch a direct flight from Perth at the starting price of $279.

 

The Victoria Hotel is a famous budget hotel within walking distance of a metro stop. You can also consider the colourful and comfy Champion Hotel, well-known for being good value in Singapore.

 

 

Best Time to Visit

 

Although Singapore is a great year-round destination, most consider February to April the best time to visit the country.

 

 

Major Attractions

 

• Marina Bay Sands

• Botanic Gardens

• National Orchid Garden

• Singapore Zoo

• Orchard Road

• Singapore Flyer

• Raffles Hotel Singapore

• Chinatown

• Sentosa Island

• Clarke Quay

• Universal Studios Singapore

• Night Safari Singapore

• Merlion Park and Fort Canning Park

• Asian Civilizations Museum and The Maritime Experiential Museum

• Fort Siloso

• National Gallery Singapore

 

 

5. Thailand

 

 

Thailand is famous for its friendly people, mouth-watering delicacies, vibrant nightlife, historic temples, and super-cheap prices. The country offers an array of experiences, from pristine beaches to bustling cities.

 

The crowded marketplace of the capital city "Bangkok" can be a jiggling adventure for your senses, and visiting Thai malls won't impact your finances much. From Bangkok, you can fly cheaply to the most-visited Phuket island or Koh Samui to make your holiday more relaxing and rejuvenating.

 

Besides enjoying authentic Thai food, you should not miss the temples in the cradles of Buddhism - the Wat Pho, Wat Mahathat, Wat Arun, and the colourful Sri Mahamariamman Temple, to name a few.

 

You should plan to spend approx. $94 per day on your vacation in Thailand. It includes $14 for meals and $11 for local transportation for one day. Also, a couple's average hotel accommodation price in Thailand is $59.

 

 

How To Reach

 

Being one of the cheapest overseas holidays from Australia, you will only have to spend a little to reach the country. Direct flights are available to Bangkok and other major cities.

 

The starting price for a direct flight from Melbourne is $262. You can quickly get a monthly rental accommodation for just AUD$330. Don't be amazed if you make it through the day with below $150, including shopping.

 

 

Best Time To Visit

 

July to October is the best time for budget travellers, where you will find lower prices and smaller crowds.

 

 

Major Attractions

 

• Bangkok

• Phuket

• Khao Yai National Park

• Ko Tarutao

• Chiang Mai

• Kanchanaburi 

• Railay

• Isan Region

• Similan Islands

• Ayuthaya

• Ko Pha Ngan

• Pai

• Chiang Rai's Hills

• Sukhothai Historical Park

 

 

6. India

 

 

If you are planning cheap overseas holidays for families, India is among the most readily accessible countries on Earth.

 

The country is a deliciously mad mash-up of peoples, religions, cultures, landscapes, geography, and architecture, making it an authentic and exciting experience for every traveller.

 

The country offers an array of possibilities –seeing the Taj Mahal in person, hiking the foothills of the Himalayas, meditating at the Lotus Temple, boating at the Old Fort, doing yoga in the sun-soaked city of Rishikesh, touring the lake city of Udaipur, and enjoying the exciting Indian cuisine at the crowded marketplaces, there are tons of things you can do there.

 

The cost of living in Delhi is around AUD$400 a month, making it one of the best budget destinations for Australians. Also, you can get cheap internal flights from Delhi.

 

The average daily expense is around $32 per day on your vacation in India. You can get a room in a guesthouse for just $10, eat in a restaurant for $3, and enjoy a long-distance train ride for $8. As an accommodation, food, and transport aren't financially straining, this could be a perfect and budget-friendly holiday from Australia.

 

 

How To Reach

 

From Melbourne, you can access a direct flight to India at a starting price of $262.

 

 

Best Time To Visit

 

For the best holiday experience, you should plan your trip to India between October and March. Avoid the rainy season between July and September.

 

 

Major Attractions

 

• Taj Mahal, Agra

• Sacred Ganga River, Varanasi

• The Home to Bollywood film stars, Mumbai

• Lotus Temple, New Delhi

• Tibetan Monasteries, Ladakh

• Ummaid Bhavan, Rajasthan

• Sundarbans Tiger Reserve, Kolkata

• The Kerala Backwaters

• Bodhgaya, Bihar

• Vast manicured tea estates, Darjeeling

 

 

7. Vietnam

 

 

Vietnam is the land of astounding cultural complexities, hill-tribe villages, and lively megacities. Besides being full of natural beauty, the country is super affordable to get to and be in. It makes Vietnam an unmissable place for itineraries among budget travellers.

 

This beautiful country is famous for its rich history and culture, panoramic views, and countryside experience with rice paddies and mountains.

 

Food and beer here are delicious and cheap, and you may get it for as low as $5AU. Hotels are reasonably priced, and you may get fabulous budget deals for flights that won't break the bank.

 

You should plan to spend approx. $51 per day on your vacation in Vietnam. It includes $12 on meals and $10) on local transportation for one day.

 

 

How To Reach

 

Direct flights are available from key Australian cities to Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi destinations.

 

Several flights depart from Melbourne to major destinations in Vietnam, such as Tan Son Nhat, Danang, Quinhon, Pleiku, and Haiphong, to name a few. The starting price of the flight ticket from Melbourne is AUD235.

 

 

Best Time To Visit

 

April-June and September-November is the best period for travellers to explore the country economically while avoiding the tourist crowd.

 

 

Major Attractions

 

• Halong Bay

• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

• Ho Chi Minh City

• Phu Quoc

• Hanoi (Capital City)

• Ba Be National Park

• Nha Trang

• Hà Giang

 

 

8. Srilanka

 

 

Srilanka is another must-see destination to spend cheap overseas holidays from Australia. It is a small island country with mesmerizing beaches and national parks.

 

It is also affordable, with discounted airfares and hotels, cheap accommodation, and food options that captivates travellers from nooks and corners of the globe.

 

Sri Lanka's history, culture, legendary temples, and natural beauty are enticing. Some of its places are awarded the status of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

 

Moreover, the endless beaches, fantastic people's hospitality, timeless ruins, rolling surf, oodles of elephants, low prices, fun trains, famous tea, and tasty food make Sri Lanka appealing.

 

With an average daily spend of around $18 (including $3.88 on meals and $1.63 on local transportation), Srilanka is among the best countries to visit from Australia.

 

 

How To Reach

 

There are direct flights to Srilanka from major Australian cities like Melbourne. Flight price tickets are affordable and start from around USD 297.

 

 

Best Time To Visit

 

May through August is one of the cheapest periods to travel to Srilanka. Accommodation prices are generally lower due to thinner crowds.

 

During this time, the weather is warm and pleasant enough for trips to Jaffna or the chilled-out resorts, like Arugam Bay, famous for its laid-back surf scene.

 

 

Major Attractions

 

• Ganduwa Island

• Ella Rock

• Nine Arch Bridge

• Mihintale

• Unawatuna

• Gal Viharaya

• Kataragama Festival

• Udawalawe National Park

• Ravana Falls

• Dambulla Cave Temple

• Mirissa

• Arugam Bay

• Temple of the Tooth

• Adam's Peak

• Galle Fort

• Yala National Park

• Sigiriya Rock Fort 

 

 

9. Bolivia

 

 

Bolivia is one of the highest and most remote countries on Earth. A large part of it remains hidden and untouched by time.

 

The place is famous for its indigenous people and varied mix of multi-ethnic cultural experiences, extreme adventures, and splendid landscapes. The best tourist attractions in the country offer a wealth of once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences.

 

You should plan to spend around $42 per day on your vacation in Bolivia. It includes $13 on meals and $9.23 on local transportation for one day. Also, the average price of hotel accommodation in Bolivia for a couple is $26.

 

 

How To Reach

 

The quickest route to Bolivia is flying to Buenos Aires, Argentina. You can easily get a flight with Qantas or Aerolineas Argentina from Sydney. The cost of the round trip is approx. USD$1,500.

 

You need to catch another flight from Buenos Aires flights to Bolivia that will cost you around USD 300-500.

 

 

Best Time To Visit

 

October is the best time to visit Bolivia as tourism slows down, and visitors can negotiate prices and get better deals.

 

 

Major Attractions

 

• Madidi National Park

• Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos

• Reserva Eduardo Avaroa

• Yungas Road

• Cerro Rico, Potosi

• Sucre

• Oruro Carnival

• Lake Titicaca

• Tiwanaku

• Salar de Uyuni

 

 

10. Cambodia

 

 

Cambodia must be on your itinerary if you are a history buff looking for an affordable holiday destination with cheap accommodation and food options. This small country has much to explore and love while on a tight budget.

 

Cambodia is a year-round destination based on your sightseeing plan in this fascinating country. From the colossal temples of Angkor Wat to the coastline of sandy white beaches and the contemporary Cambodian city life, the country is a prime destination that manages to charm all who come.

 

You should plan to spend approx. $49 per day on your vacation in Cambodia. It includes $12 on meals and $5.90 on local transportation for one day.

 

 

How To Reach

 

There are four ways to reach Cambodia from Australia by plane:

 

• Fly Perth to Siem Reap - $290 to $964 

• Fly Perth to Phnom Penh- $414 to $956 

• Fly Adelaide to Phnom Penh - $303 to $1,403 

• Fly Perth to Sihanoukville - $415 to $920

 

 

Best Time To Visit

 

April to June and September to October are ideal for budget-friendly travellers. The season brings emerald landscapes and epic cloud formations. It is the time when accommodation providers release their best special offers.

 

You can save a large chunk of money if you plan to stay at 5-star hotels and luxury resorts.

 

 

Major Attractions

 

• Preah Vihear

• Sihanoukville

• Tonle Sap

• Silver Pagoda

• Bokor Hill Station

• Kratie

• Koh Ker

• Banteay Srei

• Angkor Wat Temple

 

 

11. Philippines

 

 

Unlike famous travel destinations, the Philippines is usually a low-budget holiday spot. The low cost of living in the country is reflected in the price of food, transportation, accommodations, and activities.

 

The Philippines is a good destination for budget-conscious travellers; however, the prices vary based on the region and the kind of experience you seek. You can find meals below $5 per person at local restaurants and budget-friendly guesthouses or hostels for as little as $10 per night.

 

You should plan to spend around $53 per day on your vacation in the Philippines. It includes $13 on meals and $18 on local transportation for one day.

 

 

How To Reach

 

Direct flights are available from major Australian cities to destinations like Manila and Cebu. Here are seven ways to travel to the Philippines from Australia:

 

• Fly Perth to Manila - US$188 to 1,112 (Cheapest)

• Fly Perth to Mactan–Cebu - US$164 to 496

• Fly Brisbane to Manila - US$298 to 1,121

• Fly Melbourne to Manila - US$237 to722

• Fly Sydney to Manila - US$217 to 1,221

• Fly Perth to Davao - US$346 to 960

• Fly Canberra to Manila - US$367 to 960s

 

 

Best Time To Visit

 

June-September is a low season and a good time to travel to the Philippines as you will find fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. To get the best experience of beach lounging weather, heading to the Eastern Visayas is an excellent option.

 

 

Major Attractions

 

• White Beach, Boracay

• Coral Garden

• Manila 

• Calle Crisologo of Vigan city

• Mayon Volcano, Albay

• Chocolate Hills, Bohol

• Underground River Tour, Puerto Princesa

• Hanging Coffins, Sagada

• Batad Rice Terraces, Banaue

• Corregidor Island

• Pagsanjan Falls, Laguna

• Taal Volcano, Talisay

• Hanging Bridge, Sevilla

• Sugba Lagoon, Siargao

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

 

1. What Is The Cheapest City in Europe To Fly Into From Australia? 

 

Bulgaria is the best place to visit if you want real value for money in Europe. The country is known for plenty of history in its cities and towns, a stunning coastline, a reliably warm welcome, and surprisingly good food and wine.

 

Unlike Italy and France, Bulgaria is relatively affordable as you can go skiing in winter without paying astronomical prices.

 

 

2. What Are The Ten Closest Countries To Australia?

 

Here are the ten closest countries to Australia that you can reach within a relatively short flight from Australia:

 

1. Papua New Guinea (closest to Australia and shares a land border with Queensland)

2. Indonesia

3. Fiji

4. Philippines

5. Solomon Islands

6. East Timor (Timor-Leste)

7. New Caledonia (a French territory)

8. Vanuatu

9. Palau

10. Taiwan

 

 

3. Is Fiji Island Close To Australia?

 

Yes. Fiji, a land known for stunning beaches, amicable local culture, and clear waters, is relatively close to Australia than other popular travel destinations. It lies in the South Pacific Ocean, around 3,000 kilometres northeast of Sydney, Australia.

 

Fiji is easily accessible by a short flight. You can find direct flights available from major cities in Australia, such as Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. If you take a flight from Sydney, you can reach Fiji in just around 4-hours.

 

 

4. Which Country in Europe is Affordable and Closest To Australia?

 

Regarding closeness to Australia, there are a few affordable European destinations where you can find food, accommodation, and sightseeing at comparatively lower prices than other European destinations.

 

• Hungary

• Portugal

• Czech Republic

• Poland

 

 

5. What is The Cheapest country to Travel From Australia?

 

The cheapest country to travel from Australia depends on various factors, including the type of experience you seek, the time of year, and your travel preferences.

 

The following destinations offer all a traveller seeks- stunning natural scenery, beautiful beaches, friendly locals, delicious cuisine, outdoor activities, and a rich cultural heritage at a low cost of living outside peak travel season.

 

• Indonesia

• Thailand

• Vietnam

• Philippines

 

 

6. What Are The Five Closest Countries To Australia?

 

The five closest and most affordable travel options to Australia include:

 

• Indonesia

• Papua New Guinea

• East Timor

• Philippines

• Fiji

 

 

7. What Countries Are Easy To Get To From Australia?

 

Due to proximity and direct flight connections, it is relatively easy to get to the following countries from Australia:

 

• New Zealand

• Indonesia

• Thailand

• Fiji

• Singapore

• Japan

 

Besides these, several other countries are easy to get to from Australia, based on your preferences and travel needs. You should research the destination and plan to find the most economical and convenient options for your trip.

 

 

Conclusion

 

Whether you are looking for adventure, cultural experiences, or relaxation, these are the best destinations to spend cheap overseas holidays for families, friend groups, and solo travellers.

 

Useful Links to Explore:

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