Taiwan Unites with China, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia and More to Reveal the Most Affordable Destinations for Budget Travellers in 2026

As travel budgets remain tight, Skyscanner is stepping in to help travellers navigate affordable options for 2026. Taiwan, alongside China, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and more, is revealing the top destinations that offer incredible value without sacrificing quality. By collaborating with these diverse regions, travellers can explore a mix of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant city life—all while keeping costs low. This partnership highlights the best budget-friendly travel spots in Asia, providing budget travellers with a comprehensive guide to some of the most accessible and cost-effective escapes in 2026. From tropical beaches to historic landmarks, these destinations prove that an unforgettable journey doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Traveling on a budget doesn’t have to mean compromising on quality or experience, and Skyscanner is here to prove it. The global travel search engine has recently shared its list of the top 10 most affordable destinations to fly to in 2026, alongside a handy new tool designed to streamline the travel planning process. The Cheapest Destination Planner, tailored specifically for Singaporean travellers, offers a simple and quick way to book a getaway without getting bogged down by complex price comparisons.

This year, Southeast Asia continues to lead the charge in budget-friendly travel, with beloved destinations like Phuket, Bali, and Manila topping the list. These places not only offer affordable return fares, averaging in the low-$200s, but also boast a variety of attractions that appeal to all types of travellers. Whether you’re after sun-drenched beaches, bustling nightlife, or rich cultural experiences, these cities have something for everyone. With frequent flights and plenty of accommodation options, they offer the perfect combination of value and convenience.

In addition to these well-known favourites, the list also features lesser-known spots such as Phu Quoc in Vietnam and Kuching in Malaysia. These destinations provide a more laid-back atmosphere, ideal for travellers seeking a slower pace without the steep costs. Phu Quoc, with its stunning beaches and growing resort options, offers a relaxing island escape, while Kuching is a haven for culture lovers, blending nature, heritage, and local culinary delights. Both destinations deliver on affordability and accessibility, making them perfect choices for those looking to explore quieter corners of Southeast Asia.

But affordability isn’t limited to short-haul flights. The list also includes longer journeys to destinations like Perth in Australia and several cities in China, including Xiamen, Chongqing, and Harbin, all available for less than $520. These cities may seem far-flung, but their competitive airfare prices make them surprisingly budget-friendly, proving that long-haul travel doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag.

To help travellers find the best deals, Skyscanner has launched the Cheapest Destination Planner. This intuitive tool allows users to select their preferred travel month and view the 10 most affordable destinations for that period. The planner provides essential details like average return fares, the most cost-effective days to fly, and a brief overview of what each destination offers. This tool is designed for travellers who want to make informed decisions quickly, without spending hours searching for the best deals.

The destinations featured in the planner are all within a 10-hour flight, making them convenient and accessible without the strain of long-haul flights. Once you’ve chosen your dream destination, you can easily book flights or accommodation directly through Skyscanner’s platform.

To further maximise savings, Skyscanner offers a few additional features to help users find even cheaper fares. The “Drops” function alerts travellers when flight prices fall by at least 20%, refreshing every hour. The “Everywhere” feature shows the most affordable destinations globally, making it easy for flexible travellers to find the best deals. Other tips for saving money include mixing airlines, flying from nearby airports, and booking multi-city trips that allow for up to six stops on one ticket.

Based on the latest data, here are the 10 cheapest destinations to fly to in 2026, along with their average return fares:

1. Harbin, China – $517
2. Perth, Australia – $503
3. Chongqing, China – $474
4. Xiamen, China – $437
5. Taipei, Taiwan – $408
6. Kuching, Malaysia – $349
7. Phu Quoc, Vietnam – $324
8. Bali, Indonesia – $247
9. Manila, Philippines – $240
10. Phuket, Thailand – $236

Taiwan, along with China, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and more, reveals the most affordable destinations for budget travellers in 2026, offering unique experiences across Asia without breaking the bank. This collaboration highlights top-value getaways that make exploring Asia both accessible and affordable.

Skyscanner’s latest release highlights that affordable travel to international destinations is still very much within reach, even for those on a budget. With the right tools, some flexibility in your travel dates, and a bit of planning, exploring the world in 2026 doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you’re looking for a beach vacation, cultural immersion, or a peaceful island retreat, there’s an affordable destination ready to be explored.

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