Money.com.au ranked the top 10 most popular international flights based on their average cost per minute, highlighting which trips offer the best value for money. With Australians taking over 10 million overseas trips annually, many are keen to maximize the value of every dollar spent on travel.
Best Overall Value for Money
The Perth to Singapore route is the best value-for-money international flight, with an average cost of just $1.41 per minute. It offers a mid-range flight duration, allowing travellers to reach Southeast Asia affordably while enjoying a reasonable travel time.
Melbourne to Singapore ranks second, with an average cost of $1.78 per minute, followed by Perth to Denpasar at $1.96 per minute.
Best Value for Long-Haul Flights
Melbourne to Singapore also tops the list for long-haul value, offering the best deal for flights over six hours. With a flight time of 7 hours and 55 minutes, it provides an attractive cost per minute.
Best Value for Bali
For Australians travelling to Bali, the Perth to Denpasar route offers the best value, costing an average of $1.96 per minute. Melbourne to Denpasar follows at $2.62 per minute, likely benefiting from Jetstar's expanded Perth network.
For those planning an extended stay in Perth before their flight, there are numerous long stay Perth accommodation options available, including fully furnished serviced apartments ideal for both business and leisure travelers. These accommodations provide flexibility and comfort, making them an excellent option for travellers looking to relax before heading to Bali.
Best Value for New Zealand
Melbourne to Auckland is the most affordable option for flights to New Zealand, with an average cost per minute of $2.31. Sydney to Auckland comes next at $2.74 per minute.
Most Expensive International Flight
Brisbane to Singapore, one of Australia’s longer international routes, is the most expensive, at $3.18 per minute. To make the most of their money, travellers can find savings by planning, such as bringing snacks to avoid costly onboard purchases.
Maximizing Value for Money
Sean Callery, a finance expert at Money.com.au, suggests that with rising living costs, more travelers are looking for ways to maximize their travel dollars. He encourages travellers to consider the total cost and journey time to find the best value.
He points out that a more extended journey can sometimes offer better value, using flights to Singapore as an example. Flights from Melbourne and Sydney to Singapore provide better value per minute than shorter trips like those to Auckland. Callery also notes that while Singapore is a common stopover for Australian travellers, its abundant flight options also make it a great final destination.
For those stopping over in Melbourne, there are a variety of fully furnished Melbourne apartments available, ideal for both short and long stays. These apartments offer the convenience of home-like amenities, perfect for families or travellers who prefer a more comfortable and flexible accommodation option before their next flight.
On the other hand, for some travellers, like those with young children, paying more for a shorter flight may be worth it to reach their destination faster. The key is finding the balance between cost and value based on individual needs.