Australia’s geographical isolation, situated far from Europe, (and in general the rest of the world) imposes a unique challenge for its residents when it comes to international travel. The vast distance translates into higher transportation costs, making flights to Europe considerably more expensive compared to those from more centrally located regions.
As a result, Australians often find themselves facing nearly double the expenses incurred by travelers from other parts of the world when journeying to destinations. Faced with such constraints, many Australians opt for more cost-effective alternatives, turning their attention towards the culturally rich and economically viable countries in Southeast Asia. These nations not only offer more affordable flight options but also boast a lower cost of living, making them attractive destinations for Australian travelers seeking a balance between exploration and budget-conscious choices.
Factors to consider when choosing affordable travel destinations
When planning your budget-friendly travel adventure, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, look for countries with a favourable exchange rate. This will ensure that your Australian dollars go a long way in terms of purchasing power. Additionally, consider the cost of flights and accommodations.
Opting for destinations with affordable airfares and reasonably priced hotels or hostels can significantly reduce your overall expenses. If you can master the art of packing light you could pay less for your ticket if you dont have check in luggage. Lastly, research the cost of living in each country. This includes the average cost of meals, transportation, and attractions. By taking these factors into account, you can choose destinations that align with your travel budget and allow you to experience all that the country has to offer without breaking the bank.
Weather is also an important factor when planning travel. You don’t want to get stuck in a place with pouring rain. This is especially important of you are travelling with kids. Try and book shoulder season when it’s cheaper but the weather is still good. For example, I recently went to Thailand in February and enjoyed cheaper prices and wonderful weather.
I will give you a list of 5 cheap countries to travel to from Australia and give you an indication of what I mean about cost of living and exchange rates at the end of each destination. Before i do, you may also be interested in downloading a travel packing list to ensure you don’t leave anything important behind.
Top 5 cheap countries to travel from Australia
1. Indonesia
With its stunning beaches, landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Indonesia offers incredible value for Australian traveller’s and is one of the cheap countries to travel from Australia. From the popular island of Bali to the lesser-known gems like Lombok and Yogyakarta, this diverse archipelago has something for everyone. Accommodations range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts, ensuring there’s an option for every traveller’s budget. Transportation within the country is also affordable, with options such as local buses and ride-sharing services. Don’t miss exploring ancient temples, indulging in mouth-watering street food, and diving in world-class dive sites.
Let’s take a look at Bali.
Currency: Indonesia Rupiah
Exchange Rate: $1 AUD buys you approximately IDR 10,251
Weather: May to October Clear and Sunny with an average temperature of 32 degrees Celsius.
Peak is July & August so try and stay clear of these months
Direct Flights: Return Economy for 1 passenger (Example: 7 Days in May)
Melbourne to Denpasar:
Virgin Return Economy Approximately $519
Jetstar Return Economy Approximately $659
Malindo Air Return Economy Approximately $662
Budget Accommodation: 2 star $32 per night and a 3 star $58 per night
Other accommodation: 4 star $70 per night and 5 star $185 per night
Average Cost of Food:
Nasi Goreng Chicken
Cost in Indonesia 35,000 IDR (AUD $3.40)
Cost in Australia (AUD $22.00)
Can of Soft Drink
Cost in Indonesia15,000 IDR (AUD$1.40)
Cost in Australia (AUD $5.00)
Beer
Cost in Indonesia 20,000 IDR (AUD$1.95)
Cost in Australia (AUD $8.00)
Safety Level: Exercise a High Degree of Caution
(Based on Smart Traveller – Australia)
2. Thailand
Known for its warm hospitality, Thailand is a budget-friendly paradise and is another one of the cheap countries to travel from Australia. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the idyllic islands of Phuket and Koh Samui, there are endless possibilities for exploration. Accommodations in Thailand cater to all budgets, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. I always end up at the Dusit Thani Pool Villas. Traveling within the country is affordable and convenient, thanks to a well-developed transportation network. Make sure to visit the stunning temples, experience vibrant night markets, and indulge in delicious street food.
Let’s take a look at Phuket as an example:
Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
Exchange Rate: $1 AUD buys you approximately THB 23.40
Weather: December to March Avg Temp 32 degrees Celsius
Peak is December & January so stay clear of these months
Direct Flights: Return Economy for 1 passenger (7 Days in February)
Melbourne to Phuket
Jetstar: Return Economy Approximately $1625
Thai Airways: Business Class one way $2340 (on board their a350 900)
Budget Accommodation: 2 star $30 per night and a 3 star $60 per night
Other accommodation: 4 star $90 per night and 5 star $200 + per night
Average Cost of Food:
Pad Thai
Cost in Thailand BAHT 80 – 120 (AUD $ 3.5 to $5)
Cost in Australia (AUD $20.00)
Can of Soft Drink
Cost in Thailand BAHT30 (AUD $1.30)
Cost in Australia (AUD $5.00)
Beer
Cost in Thailand BAHT 90 (AUD $4)
Cost in Australia (AUD $8)
Safety Level: Exercise a High Degree of Caution
(Based on Smart Traveller – Australia)
3. Vietnam
With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Vietnam is a must-visit destination for budget-conscious travelers. Accommodations in Vietnam are affordable, with options ranging from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels. Local transportation, such as buses and trains, are also reasonably priced, making it easy to navigate the country. All of these options make Vietnam one of the cheap countries to travel from Australia. Don’t miss exploring the charming streets of Hanoi, cruising through the iconic Halong Bay, and indulging in mouthwatering Vietnamese street food.
Let’s take a look at Hanoi
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Exchange Rate: $1 AUD buys you approximately VND 15,992
Weather: (Autumn September to November) said to be the best time to visit. Temperatures are 26-32 degrees celcius
Direct Flights: Return Economy for 1 passenger (7 Days in September)
Sydney to Hanoi
Vietnam Airlines: Return Economy Approximately $1065
Budget Accommodation: 2 star $45 per night and a 3 star $65 per night
Other accommodation: 4 star $120 per night and 5 star $220 + per night
Average Cost of Food:
Pho Ga (rice noodle soup with chicken)
Cost in Vietnam VND 40,000 (AUD $ 2.5)
Cost in Australia (AUD $17.00)
Can of Soft Drink
Cost in Vietnam VND 15,000 (AUD $0.95)
Cost in Australia (AUD $5.00)
Beer
Cost in Vietnam VND 25,000 (AUD $1.5)
Cost in Australia (AUD $8)
Safety Level: (Based on Smart Traveller – Australia) Exercise normal safety precautions.
4. Malaysia
From the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur to the beautiful beaches of Langkawi and Penang, Malaysia offers a diverse range of experiences at an affordable price. Accommodations in Malaysia cater to all budgets, with options ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Getting around the country is convenient and affordable, thanks to an extensive transportation network. Make sure to explore the bustling street markets, visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, and sample the delicious local cuisine.
Let’s take a look at Langkawi
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Exchange Rate: $1 AUD buys you approximately MYR 3.07
Weather: November to April is said to be the best time to visit. Temperatures are 25-35 degrees Celsius
1 Stop Flights: Return Economy for 1 passenger (7 Days in April)
Melbourne to Langkawi
Malaysian Airlines Return Economy Approximately $910
Budget Accommodation: 2 star $35 per night and a 3 star $49 per night
Other accommodation: 4 star $85 per night and 5 star $350 + per night
Average Cost of Food:
Laksa Soup
Cost in Malaysia MYR 10 (AUD $ 3.25)
Cost in Australia (AUD $20.00)
Can of Soft Drink
Cost in Malaysia MYR 3.80 (AUD $1.24)
Cost in Australia (AUD $5.00)
Safety Level: Exercise normal safety precautions
(Based on Smart Traveller – Australia)
Cambodia
Home to the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex, Cambodia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Accommodations in Cambodia are affordable, with options ranging from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels. Local transportation, such as tuk-tuks and buses, is also budget-friendly, making it easy to explore the country. Don’t miss visiting the temples of Angkor, exploring the vibrant capital city of Phnom Penh, and experiencing the warm hospitality of the Cambodian people.
Let’s look at Phnom Penh
Currency: Cambodia Riel (KHR)
Exchange Rate: $1 AUD buys you approximately KHR 2,705
Weather: December to April is said to be the best time to visit. Temperatures are 32 degrees Celsius
1 Stop Flights: Return Economy for 1 passenger (7 Days in March)
Melbourne to Phnom Penh
Jetstar Return Economy Approximately $670
Budget Accommodation: 2 star $30 per night and a 3 star $45 per night
Other accommodation: 4 star $95 per night and 5 star $320 + per night
Average Cost of Food:
Fish Amok Curry
Cost in Cambodia KHR 10,140 (AUD $ 3.75)
Cost in Australia (AUD $18.00)
Can of Soft Drink
Cost in Cambodia KHR 4,000 (AUD $1.40)
Cost in Australia (AUD $5.00)
Beer
Cost in Cambodia KHR 7,000 (AUD $2.5)
Cost in Australia (AUD $8)
Safety Level: Exercise normal safety precautions
(Based on Smart Traveller – Australia)
Affordable accommodations in these countries
When it comes to finding affordable accommodations in the most cheap countries to travel from Australia, there are plenty of options to choose from. As you can see above the prices range from low to high on average. You can even find some places for $15 per night if you are really on a strict budget.
In Indonesia, budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels are abundant, especially in popular tourist areas like Bali and Yogyakarta. Opt for a cheap hotel however if you are a solo traveller who also has a bit of anxiety. Staying in a hotel amongst many people can often relieve symptoms of solo travel anxiety.
Thailand offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to mid-range hotels, depending on your preferences.
Vietnam also has a variety of affordable accommodations, including budget guesthouses and boutique hotels.
In Malaysia, you can find budget-friendly guesthouses and budget hotels, particularly in less touristy areas.
Cambodia offers a range of affordable accommodations, from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels, catering to different budgets.
Budget-friendly transportation options
Getting around these cheap countries to travel to from Australia is not only convenient but also budget-friendly. In Indonesia, local buses, ride-sharing services, and motorbike rentals are affordable options for exploring the country. Thailand has an extensive network of buses, trains, and domestic flights that are reasonably priced. Vietnam offers affordable transportation options, including buses, trains, and domestic flights. Malaysia has an efficient transportation system, with affordable options such as buses, trains, and domestic flights. In Cambodia, tuk-tuks, taxis, and buses are affordable modes of transportation for getting around.
Local cuisine and affordable dining options
One of the highlights of traveling to these affordable countries is indulging in the local cuisine. From delicious street food to authentic local dishes, there are plenty of affordable dining options to satisfy your taste buds.
Indonesia: Don’t miss trying nasi goreng (fried rice), satay, and gado-gado (vegetable salad).
Thailand: Indulge in pad Thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice.
Vietnam: Try pho (noodle soup), banh mi (baguette sandwiches), and fresh spring rolls.
Malaysia: Savor nasi lemak (coconut rice), roti canai (Indian flatbread), and laksa (spicy noodle soup).
Cambodia: Sample fish amok (curry dish), lok lak (stir-fried beef), and num pang (Cambodian sandwich).
Safety tips for traveling
While these cheap countries to travel to from Australia offer incredible experiences, it’s essential to prioritize safety during your travels. Make sure to research and familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions.
Stay informed about any travel advisories or safety precautions issued by your government. Take precautions to safeguard your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded tourist areas.
Hygiene may not be of the same standards as in Australia. Be aware of things like Bali Belly (travellers diarrhoea) which can be cause by consuming bacteria found in water and food which is contaminated.
Use reliable transportation services and avoid traveling alone at night. It’s also a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and trip cancellations. By staying alert and prepared, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to these affordable countries.
Travel hacks and tips to save money while exploring these countries
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on experiences. Here are some travel hacks and tips to save money while exploring these affordable countries:
1. Book flights in advance: By booking your flights well in advance, you can often find better deals and save money on airfare. If flying Qantas, dont forget to take advantage of the T80 Rule and snag one of the best seats available.
2. Travel during the off-peak season: Consider traveling during the off-peak season to take advantage of lower prices on flights, accommodations, and attractions.
3. Eat like a local: Opt for street food and local eateries, where you can enjoy delicious meals at a fraction of the cost of tourist restaurants.
4. Use public transportation: Instead of relying on taxis or private transportation services, utilize public transportation options like buses and trains, which are often more affordable.
5. Take advantage of free activities and attractions: Many destinations offer free or low-cost activities, such as visiting public parks, exploring local markets, or attending cultural festivals.
6. Negotiate prices: In markets or when hiring transportation services, don’t be afraid to negotiate prices to get the best deal.
7. Stay in budget accommodations: Consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations like guesthouses or hostels, which provide affordable options without compromising comfort or safety.
By implementing these travel hacks and tips, you can stretch your travel budget and make the most of your experiences in these affordable countries.
Final Thoughts
Cheap countries to travel from Australia doesn’t have to be a distant dream. With careful planning and consideration, you can embark on incredible adventures without draining your bank account. From the stunning landscapes of Indonesia to the rich culture of Cambodia, these budget-friendly destinations offer a wealth of experiences for Australian travelers. Remember to research and consider factors such as exchange rates, flight costs, accommodations, and the cost of living when choosing your travel destinations.
By exploring these affordable countries, you can create unforgettable memories, immerse yourself in different cultures, and satisfy your wanderlust, all while staying within your travel budget. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and get ready to escape the expensive in the most affordable countries to travel to from Australia.
Safe Travels, don’t forget your travel insurance and never post your boarding pass on social media as there are risks in doing so. You’re welcome 😊.
