Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
As the summer holiday season approaches, many Singaporeans are dreaming of a well-deserved getaway. But with soaring demand and rising travel costs, that dream holiday can quickly come with a hefty price tag. To help savvy travellers beat the crowds — and the costs — Skyscanner has unveiled its Smarter Summer Report, offering a fresh take on affordable travel.
The report reveals that 77% of Singaporean travellers are willing to explore lesser-known destinations this summer instead of flocking to mainstream tourist hotspots. The goal? A memorable, cost-effective holiday that doesn’t compromise on experiences.
To make that dream a reality, Skyscanner has curated a list of five wallet-friendly destinations, each offering unique charm and experiences for under $300 round-trip, based on average flight prices for July and August 2025.
1. Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia – $182
For those who love the idea of a Bali beach escape but want a quieter and cheaper option, Kota Kinabalu tops the list. Nestled along the coast of Sabah, this Malaysian gem offers everything from crystal-clear waters and island hopping to sunset cruises and jungle hikes up Mount Kinabalu. The city’s laid-back charm and budget-friendly appeal make it an ideal tropical escape.
2. Iloilo, Philippines – $195
Skip the chaos of Manila and head to the charming city of Iloilo. Known for its Spanish-era churches, colonial architecture, and vibrant street food scene, Iloilo is also a launchpad to nearby islands like Guimaras, famous for its mangoes and white sand beaches. It’s a culturally rich, coastal destination that offers tranquillity with a touch of history.
3. Surabaya, Indonesia – $243
Adventure seekers, meet Surabaya. As Indonesia’s second-largest city, Surabaya offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural wonders, including the majestic Mount Bromo, one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic volcanoes. With direct flights from Singapore, this dynamic destination promises a mix of urban exploration and scenic escapes, all without the tourist overload.
4. Guiyang, China – $259
For a deeper dive into Chinese culture and landscapes, Guiyang in Guizhou province is a hidden gem. With lush forests, underground lakes, and unique landmarks like Tianhe Lake, this lesser-known city is a haven for nature lovers and culture buffs alike. Travellers can enjoy authentic cuisine and scenic tranquillity, far from the hustle of China’s bigger metropolises.
5. Hat Yai (Songkhla), Thailand – $278
Love Bangkok’s food and flair but dread the crowds? Hat Yai in southern Thailand delivers a similar vibe with fewer tourists. From bustling night markets to local street food, and quick access to coastal Songkhla, Hat Yai offers a laid-back Thai experience at a fraction of the cost—and the chaos.
Guiyang, China Cityscape
How Skyscanner Picked the Destinations
These budget-friendly destinations were identified by analysing flight search and redirect data between January and March 2025 for outbound travel during the summer window (June 30–August 31). Skyscanner excluded promotional fares and focused on median return economy fares to give travellers a realistic idea of typical prices.
In choosing these five locations, Skyscanner intentionally removed more popular destinations to spotlight alternatives that offer strong value for money without sacrificing experience.
Smarter Travel, Bigger Savings
Cyndi Hui, Skyscanner’s Travel Trends and Destination Expert, said: “Summer continues to be a peak travel season, with 93% of Singapore travellers planning the same or more trips. However, savvy travellers can still seize good deals—and that’s why we’ve curated this list of lower-cost alternatives. It’s all about spending more on memories and experiences, and less on just getting there.”
Bromo Mountain in Tengger Semeru National Park
Travellers are also encouraged to use Skyscanner’s Price Alerts feature, which allows users to track routes and get notified when prices drop, making it easier to book flights at the best value.
And the savings don’t stop at airfares—Skyscanner also offers value-for-money accommodation options with filters that help travellers find exactly what suits their preferences and budget.
Final Takeaway
Whether you’re craving beaches, culture, food, or adventure, a memorable summer holiday doesn’t have to break the bank. Thanks to Skyscanner’s insights and tools, Singaporeans can still pack their bags — and their passports — without emptying their wallets.
