5 cheap overseas holidays from Australia

After several years of closed borders and pandemic-driven lockdowns, many Australians are eager to quench their wanderlust and head overseas in 2023.

A survey by Skyscanner found one in three of us are planning short-haul flights for 2023, and 31% are planning far-flung adventures. The report says Aussies are increasingly on the hunt for lesser-known places to visit, with interest in Mumbai in India, and Kathmandu in Nepal growing rapidly in the last year.

However, as interest rates and living costs rise, plenty of would-be Aussies are likely looking for cheap overseas holidays in 2023. To help you plan a dream holiday without a massive price tag, we’ve rounded up some of the cheapest countries to visit from Australia. So whether you’re keen to unwind poolside, or explore new cityscapes, here are five holidays you can enjoy on a budget.

Do remember, the rules around entry into various countries can change depending on a variety of factors including recent COVID requirements.  So it’s important to stay up to date with the latest Australian Government advice on Smartraveller.

We’ve based costings on package deals that include flights and accommodation available through Flight Centre, departing from Sydney. The price is per person based on two people sharing a room (so it can pay to travel with a friend). Prices are expressed in AUD and apply to the set travel periods noted by Flight Centre.

1. Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand is often associated with white sand beaches, blue waters, temples and, of course, food. One of the cheapest overseas holidays for 2023 is a package deal to Bangkok, the hustling, bustling capital city of Thailand.

It’s no longer necessary to show a negative COVID-19 (RT–PCR) test, or proof of COVID vaccination to enter Thailand. However, it is a requirement that visitors to Thailand have travel insurance in place with coverage of no less than US$10,000 including cover for COVID-related medical treatment, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Flights and accommodation package: 3 nights from $1,249

Travel period: 1 August to 19 September 2023

2. Christchurch, New Zealand

While the North Island of New Zealand was severely impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle in February 2023, Christchurch is located on the South Island, and was spared any damage. Christchurch is not only a handy gateway to areas of outstanding natural beauty such as Lake Tekapo, the city also features a number of monuments to the earthquake that ravaged the city in 2011.

The New Zealand Customs Service says there are no COVID-19 pre-departure test or vaccination requirements to enter New Zealand. As Australia and New Zealand have a reciprocal health care agreement, Australians can access public medical care when travelling in New Zealand. However, Smartraveller cautions that this doesn’t cover everything, and advises taking out comprehensive travel insurance.

Flights and accommodation package: 4 nights from $1,479

Travel period: 1 May to 19 June 2023

3. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is the world’s biggest city with a population of 37 million – more than the entire population of Australia! Not surprisingly, a city of this scale has plenty to see and do. Key attractions include Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, Tokyo Skytree, Tsukiji Fish Market and Shibuya Crossing – the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing. Tokyo also has an exceptional food culture and endless shopping opportunities.

Australians visiting Japan no longer need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Smartraveller explains that you’ll need to register with Visit Japan Web before departure, to upload your vaccination certificate or pre-departure PCR test result, answer a health survey, and complete immigration and customs questionnaires. From here, you’ll be given a QR code to show on arrival in Japan.

Flights and accommodation package: 4 nights from $1,499

Travel period: 1 August to 19 September 2023

4. Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam

Vietnam has become an increasingly popular holiday destination for Australians, ranking as one of our top 10 travel choices in 2022. Ho Chi Minh City is vibrant and busy, with plenty to see and do. Meander along the Saigon River, dine on amazingly cheap street food, try at least one bowl of pho – Vietnam’s signature soup dish, or sample a Vietnamese egg coffee (ca phe trung).

According to Smartraveller, Australians visiting Vietnam no longer need to show proof of COVID vaccination or tests to enter Vietnam. Health measures such as mask-wearing are still in place in many areas.

Flights and accommodation package: 4 nights from $1,529

Travel period: 1 August to 19 September 2023

5. Hong Kong

A high-rise metropolis in an island setting is one of the best ways to describe Hong Kong, which is still one of the world’s leading financial centres. Take in the city sights on a cable car ride, enjoy a boat trip between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, check out the views from Victoria Peak or just explore the city by tram. The shopping and food options in Hong Kong are incredible – ranging from super-cheap to high end luxury, and if you’re hoping to buy jade, you can find it sold pretty much everywhere.

As of mid-February 2023, you will need proof of a negative COVID test to board your flight to Hong Kong, advises Smartraveller. You’ll also be required to undertake a COVID-19 test within 48 hours prior to returning to Australia and show evidence of a negative test result.

Flights and accommodation package: 4 nights from $1,699

Travel period: 1 August to 19 September 2023

Tips for getting a good deal on your next flight

Keen to stretch your dollar even further? To save on flights, it can help to be flexible with your travel dates, and of course, shop around. We’ve looked at packages that include airfares and accommodation in quality hotels, but if you’re happy to stay in budget-friendly accommodation you may be able to score an even better deal.

You could also nab cheaper flights by mixing and matching the airline you fly with. Fares don’t have to be booked as returns, and flying out with one airline, and returning with another can be a money-saver.

You can use websites like Skyscanner, Flight Centre and Google Flights to check what’s available and monitor prices.

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Cover image source: leungchopan/Shutterstock.com