Cheap International Destinations Near Australia

Itching for an overseas adventure but funds not in your favour?

No need to max out a credit card or tap into your emergency savings – there are plenty of cheap places to travel from Australia where you can satisfy your wanderlust on a budget.

Make some friends at the monkey forest in Bali, marvel at the natural beauty of New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes, go island-hopping through the turquoise waters of Fiji, or visit historic sites in Vietnam.

Whatever your travel style, these cheap places to travel from Australia offer great opportunities to immerse yourself in a new culture, indulge in local flavours, and fill your phone with Insta-worthy pics.

Start planning your affordable escapade in Bali, New Zealand, Fiji, or Vietnam.

 

Book a Trip to Bali 

Aussies love Bali. In fact, figures show Australians make up more than 75% of tourists in Bali, with over a million visiting the island every year. This might have something to do with the flight being just under four hours – not bad for an international flight to a different continent.

Home to beautiful beaches, iconic temples and laidback locals, it’s no wonder Bali is one of the most popular cheap places to travel from Australia. Be prepared for an adventure in Bali with these Bali travel tips.

Best Places to see in Bali

Whether you’re looking to lay by the beach with a cocktail in hand or climb an active volcano, Bali delivers the goods when it comes to travel activities.

Uluwatu Temple

Perched on the edge of a cliff providing unbeatable views of the ocean, Uluwatu Temple is a must-see for every traveller. History buffs will appreciate its traditional Balinese architecture and ancient sculptures.

Seminyak Beach

A popular spot for kicking back, Seminyak Beach boasts a long stretch of white sand, clear turquoise waters, and colourful loungers and umbrellas. When the sun goes down, you can enjoy fine dining and a vibrant nightlife along the busy Seminyak streets.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Dedicated to the conservation of grey long-tailed macaques, this unique natural sanctuary is home to over 700 playful monkeys. See them swing through canopies and learn about the temples within the sanctuary grounds from local guides.

Mount Batur

If you’re the outdoorsy type, why not start the day with a magical sunrise trek on Mount Batur? It takes about two hours to reach the summit of this active volcano, but it’s worth it for the sweeping scenic views and spectacular sunset.

Travel Essentials for Bali

Be ready for anything Bali throws at you with these essential travel items.

Small Carry-On Suitcase

Thanks to its warm weather, you can afford to pack lightweight clothing to Bali. Depending on the length of your trip, a couple pairs of pants and a few shirts should do it – and don’t forget your bathing suit. Your belongings will likely fit in a small carry-on suitcase, saving you even more money on checked luggage.

Anti-Theft Waist Wallet

While Bali is generally a safe place, you should be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas. An anti-theft waist wallet is the perfect way to keep your cash and valuables close to your body and safe from card skimmers.

 

Next Stop: New Zealand

 

If you haven’t made your way across the ditch to our neighbours yet, it’s time to add an NZ trip to your bucket list.

Renowned for its picturesque landscapes and exceptional foodie scene, here’s why we think you need to visit New Zealand.

New Zealand Tourist Attractions

This island country is jam-packed with fantastic outdoor activities and opportunities for adventure.

Milford Sound

Home to the majestic Mitre Peak, roaring waterfalls and lush rainforests, Milford Sound is a natural attraction you don’t want to miss. You can kayak near crystal-clear waterfalls and hike in untouched terrain on the famous Milford Track. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some dolphins, seals or penguins.

Waiheke Island

This popular spot is just a ferry ride away from Auckland City, making it a great daytrip destination. It’s known for its beautiful beaches and award-winning wines, hosting nearly 30 vineyards. Book a villa and enjoy some samples.

Waitomo

The village of Waitomo offers several caves to explore. Spot thousands of twinkling glowworms in the Glowworm Caves, or head to the Ruakuri Cave for fascinating limestone formations and waterfalls. And if you’d like to see a rare native kiwi bird in person, the Otorohanga Kiwi House in Waitomo shelters several species.

Hobbiton Movie Set

One of the most popular New Zealand tourist attractions, you don’t have to be a Lord of the Rings fanatic to appreciate the magical world of Hobbiton. Take photos in front of your favourite places like the Hobbit Holes, the Shire and the Green Dragon Inn.

Travel Essentials for New Zealand

You’ll want these handy items when packing for your New Zealand trip.

Camera Bag

In a country as stunning as New Zealand, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to take photos. A handy slingback anti-theft camera bag offers protection and easy access to your camera between snaps.

Foldable Duffle Bag

Perfect for packing a change of clothes, bathing suit, water and snacks for daytrips, a foldable duffle bag is lightweight and can be easily stashed in your regular suitcase until you need it. It also gives you more storage space for any souvenirs you want to bring home.

 

Fly to Fiji

Looking for a luxury escape without the scary price tag? You can bag cheap fares to Fiji pretty much all year round, making it one of our favourite cheap places to travel from Australia.

Plenty of Aussies make their way to this tropical holiday destination to unwind on “island time”.

Best Things to do in Fiji

It’s not all drinking from a coconut under a palm tree (unless you want it to be, of course). Fiji offers plenty of activities if you prefer a more action-packed agenda.

Nadi

Nadi is a city on Fiji’s main island, and a go-to spot for getting your fill of Fijian culture. Things to see include traditional villages, botanical gardens, craft markets and the sacred Hindu temple just outside the city. And if you’re in the mood for golf, visit the upscale resort area of Denarau Island for a hit.

Gaiatree Sanctuary

There’s no better way to experience the flavours of Fiji than at the Gaiatree Sanctuary organic spice plantation on Taveuni Island. Opt for a guided tour followed by tasty superfood-infused eats made from fresh local produce.

Modriki Island

If you’re making the effort to fly to Fiji, you may as well visit the island where Cast Away was filmed. Modriki Island is a scenic spot for swimming, snorkelling and exploring. Let us know if you run into Wilson.

Suva

You can’t beat Suva for an evening of wining, dining and bar hopping. Expect to meet a mix of friendly locals and tourists on the popular Victoria Parade. The Fiji Museum in Suva is a great spot to get your culture fix, while the Colo-i-Suva Forest Reserve offers relaxing walking trails with waterfall views.

Travel Essentials for Fiji

Be prepared for the trip of a lifetime in Fiji with these must-haves.

Daypack

Exploring Fiji is thirsty work, so carry water, snacks and other essentials comfortably with a trusty daypack. Simply lay it down in the bottom of your regular suitcase until you need it for your days of adventure.

Passport Pouch

You don’t want to worry about pickpockets when walking around the local markets. An RFID passport pouch keeps your passport and cash hidden under your shirt and frees up your hands for shopping.

 

Visit Vietnam

Because flights to Vietnam from Australia are generally inexpensive, this puts the charming Southeast Asian country high on the list of must-sees. Food, accommodation and transport are all cheap too, so you can get more bang for your buck compared to other countries.

Best Things to do in Vietnam

Affordability isn’t the only reason to visit Vietnam – it’s brimming with unique culture, striking landscapes, fascinating history and delicious local fare.

Danang Beach

One of the most beloved beaches in the country (and the world), Danang Beach offers a long stretch of white sand, pristine coral reef, palm trees and popular Marble Mountain. Take a relaxing dip in the clear blue water or get involved in water activities like surfing and scuba diving. History buffs will be interested to know this beach was a central fighting area during the Vietnam War.

Ho Chi Minh City

Another historically relevant area in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) is filled with educational sites that document the war. Check out the war museum and imperial palace, then wind down with a wander through the food stalls in bustling Ben Thanh Market.

Ha Long Bay

Hop a boat to Ha Long Bay for postcard-perfect scenery worth snapping. This area is famous for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands covered in rainforests named for their shapes, like Stone Dog and Teapot islets. You can get up close and personal with the islands on a sea kayak, or go scuba diving, rock climbing or hiking.

Old Quarter

If it’s fresh food, bright lights and a vibrant nightlife you’re after, you’ll find it at Old Quarter in Hanoi. The busy streets are dotted with old buildings, cool cafés and bars. Keep an eye out for scooters and motorbikes zooming by!

Travel Essentials for Vietnam

Here are a few essentials for your trip to Vietnam.

Dry Sack

Perfect for adventure travelling, a Sea to Summit lightweight dry sack will keep your camera, wallet and other items dry when you’re exploring those islands. They’re designed to squash into places heavy dry bags won’t, like the corners of sea kayaks.

Earplugs and Travel Pillow

As the longest flight on the list, you might want to be prepared with a few comfort items for your journey to Vietnam. Having a travel pillow and earplugs on hand can support a good rest so you arrive fresh and ready to sightsee.

 

Discover our travel must-haves for every family member here.