Cheapest Places To Fly Internationally: Surprising Cities on a Budget

Airfare can be the most expensive part of your trip—especially when flying abroad. But your next international trip doesn’t have to break the bank! Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler, a student seeking adventure, or a family planning a memorable vacation, finding affordable destinations around the globe is easier than you think.

In this guide, we’ll delve into some of the cheapest places to fly internationally from the US. From exotic beaches to cities full of history, there’s a destination for every kind of traveler. Besides going to a cheap destination, you can save even more with Going’s Premium and Elite memberships. Our exclusive alerts on affordable flights, mistake fares, and last-minute deals for international flights help our members save an average of $500 per international trip.

Top 10 cheapest places to fly to internationally

10. Tulum, Mexico

• Average roundtrip flight: $331
• Total vacation cost (including flights): $800–$1,100

9. Panama City, Panama

• Average roundtrip flight: $329
• Total vacation cost (including flights): $750–$1,100

8. Nassau, Bahamas

• Average roundtrip flight: $327
• Total vacation cost (including flights): $900–$1,300

7. Cartagena, Colombia

• Average roundtrip flight: $322
• Total vacation cost (including flights): $700–$1,000

6. Guatemala City, Guatemala

• Average roundtrip flight: $319
• Total vacation cost (including flights): $800–$1,100

5. Bogotá, Colombia

• Average roundtrip flight: $313
• Total vacation cost (including flights): $800–$1,200

4. Cali, Colombia

• Average roundtrip flight: $309
• Total vacation cost (including flights): $750–$1,000

3. Calgary, Canada

• Average roundtrip flight: $298
• Total vacation cost (including flights): $900–$1,300

2. Medellín, Colombia

• Average roundtrip flight: $293
• Total vacation cost (including flights): $800–$1,100

1. Vancouver, Canada

• Average roundtrip flight: $262
• Total vacation cost (including flights): $700–$1,000

Cheapest international destinations by month

*Note: Average roundtrip flight costs are different from above, as the averages above account for the full year, while below they account for the specific month. 

January – Cali, Colombia

There’s nothing better than escaping the cold with a warm, winter getaway to Cali, Colombia. Known as the “Salsa Capital of the World,” Cali boasts vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and warm weather year-round. January flights are among the cheapest, making this an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers.

• Average roundtrip flight: $320
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $5–$15
  • Accommodation: $10–$50 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $5–$15 each
• Top attractions: Cristo Rey, San Antonio Neighborhood, and Cali Zoo
• Expert traveler tip: Take a salsa class at a local dance school and experience Cali’s nightlife without spending a fortune.

February – Guatemala City, Guatemala

Known for affordability year-round, Guatemala City is especially economical in February. This bustling city offers affordable flights and easy access to cultural and natural attractions. As a gateway to the country’s famous volcanoes, colonial towns, and lakes, it’s perfect for adventure seekers.

• Average roundtrip flight: $312
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $8–$20
  • Accommodation: $20–$65 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$20 each
• Top attractions: National Palace of Culture, Cayalá, and nearby Antigua 
• Expert traveler tip: For a budget-friendly and picturesque escape, take a day trip to Antigua, a UNESCO-listed colonial town.

March – San Jose, Costa Rica

Get into the “pura vida” lifestyle. San Jose offers ideal spring weather in March, which is great for experiencing Costa Rica’s nature and wildlife. You can find tons of affordable flights from the US, as well as reasonably priced accommodations.

• Average roundtrip flight: $288
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $10–$25
  • Accommodation: $25–$80 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$25 each
• Top attractions: Poás Volcano, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, National Museum of Costa Rica
• Expert traveler tip: Book eco-lodges for budget-friendly and sustainable stays close to nature.

April – Vancouver, Canada

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Vancouver, with mild weather and great travel deals. This Canadian city offers stunning landscapes, urban parks, and outdoor adventures at an affordable price.

• Average roundtrip flight: $245
• Daily Costs:
  • Food: $10–$25
  • Accommodation: $30–$80 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$25 each
• Top attractions: Stanley Park, Capilano Suspension Bridge, and Granville Island.
• Expert traveler tip: Use public transportation and explore free hiking trails for an affordable trip.

May – Medellín, Colombia

The "City of Eternal Spring" is an affordable and exciting destination in May. Medellín offers scenic mountain views, cultural sites, and a thriving social scene.

• Average roundtrip flight: $248
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $8–$20
  • Accommodation: $20–$70  per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $5–$25 each
• Top attractions: Comuna 13, Plaza Botero, and Medellín Metrocable
• Expert traveler tip: Take advantage of Medellín’s affordable public transportation to explore the city and nearby towns.

June – Calgary, Canada

Adventure seekers will love visiting Calgary in June, just before peak travel season. This city is the perfect gateway to the Canadian Rockies and Banff National Park.

• Average roundtrip flight: $261
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $15–$30
  • Accommodation: $50–$150 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $15–$25 each
• Top attractions: Banff National Park, Calgary Tower, and Prince’s Island Park
• Expert traveler tip: Save on park fees by visiting during free-entry days and using public transport.

July – Oranjestad, Aruba

July flights to Aruba can be surprisingly affordable, making it a great time to visit this Caribbean paradise. White-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture make it perfect for relaxation.

• Average roundtrip flight: $319
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $15–$35
  • Accommodation: $60–$150 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $15–$40 each
• Top attractions: Eagle Beach, Arikok National Park, and the California Lighthouse
• Expert traveler tip: Skip the expensive restaurants, and opt for local food trucks and beachside shacks to enjoy fresh seafood at a lower cost.

August – Cali, Colombia

Cali makes its second appearance on this list, this time in August, thanks to consistently low airfare. The city’s vibrant festivals and cultural attractions make it a great summer destination.

• Average roundtrip flight: $298
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $5–$15
  • Accommodation: $15–$60 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $5–$15 each
• Top attractions: Cristo Rey, El Gato del Río, and Pance River
• Expert traveler tip: Visit during the Feria de Cali for an unforgettable experience with live music and dance performances.

September – Bogotá, Colombia

September is the best time to visit Bogotá, not only because of the lower airfare but also because of its ideal weather for exploring the city. The capital of Colombia offers a mix of historical landmarks, street art, and nature, perfect for all kinds of travelers.

• Average roundtrip flight: $297
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $5–$20
  • Accommodation: $20–$60 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$20 each
• Top attractions: Monserrate, La Candelaria, and Gold Museum
• Expert traveler tip: Enjoy Bogotá’s free museums and walking tours to save on sightseeing costs.

October – Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City is an excellent destination year-round, but it is especially affordable in October. This bustling city offers a vibrant mix of history, art, and culture with accessible flights and budget-friendly food and lodging.

• Average roundtrip flight: $325
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $8–$20
  • Accommodation: $25–$70 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$30 each
• Top attractions: Frida Kahlo Museum, Teotihuacan Pyramids, Chapultepec Park
• Expert traveler tip: Visit during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) for a unique cultural experience.

November – Panama City, Panama

With a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic sites, there’s plenty to explore in Panama City, and November is the best month to do so, thanks to the affordable flights and accommodations before the holiday season. 

• Average roundtrip flight: $331
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $10–$25
  • Accommodation: $20–$80 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$20 each
• Top attractions: Panama Canal, Casco Viejo, and Metropolitan Natural Park
• Expert traveler tip: Use the affordable metro system to get around the city easily. 

December – Montego Bay, Jamaica

Montego Bay is a fantastic winter getaway with beautiful beaches and low-cost flights in December. Warm weather and Caribbean vibes make it an ideal holiday escape.

• Average roundtrip flight: $354
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $8–$25
  • Accommodation: $30–$100 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $15–$35 each
• Top attractions: Doctor’s Cave Beach, Dunn’s River Falls, and Rose Hall
• Expert traveler tip: Consider an all-inclusive resort for budget-friendly accommodation that includes food, drinks, and activities.

Cheapest international destinations by region

Western Europe – Paris, France

Paris may be known for luxury, but it can also be an affordable destination with proper planning. Budget airlines frequently offer low fares to the French capital, making it one of the cheapest entry points to Western Europe. Off-peak travel months offer even greater savings.

• Average roundtrip flight: $428
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $15–$30
  • Accommodation: $40–$150 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$25 each
• Top attractions: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and the Arc de Triomphe
• Expert traveler tip: Opt for a Paris Museum Pass to save on entrance fees to multiple attractions, and use public transport to get around affordably.

Eastern Europe – Gdańsk, Poland

Gdańsk is an underrated gem on Poland’s Baltic coast, offering historic charm, scenic waterfronts, and, most importantly, affordable travel options. With flights averaging under $400, it’s a destination you should add to your Europe bucket list.

• Average roundtrip flight: $391
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $8–$20
  • Accommodation: $20–$60  per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $5–$15 each
• Top attractions: Long Market, Westerplatte, and St. Mary’s Church
• Expert traveler tip: Enjoy Gdańsk’s free walking tours, and visit the nearby beach town of Sopot for a cheap day trip.

Scandinavia – Bergen, Norway

Like most Nordic cities, Bergen is a beautiful destination with a unique cultural background. As the gateway to Norway’s fjords, this city is a budget-friendly choice for travelers seeking stunning landscapes. While Norway is generally expensive, Bergen’s affordable flights make it a great entry point for exploring Scandinavia on a budget.

• Average roundtrip flight: $444
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $15–$40
  • Accommodation: $50–$120 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$20 each
• Top attractions: Bryggen Wharf, Fløibanen Funicular, and Fjord Tours
• Expert traveler tip: Visit local supermarkets for cheaper meals, and take advantage of free hikes for breathtaking views.

Planning a European holiday? See the cheapest cities in Europe to fly into

North America – Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver is one of the most affordable international destinations when flying from the US due to its frequent flight deals. The city’s vibrant arts and food scene make it a perfect budget-friendly option for a low-cost vacation with friends or family.

• Average roundtrip flight: $262
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $10–$25
  • Accommodation: $40–$800 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$25 each
• Top attractions: Stanley Park, Granville Island, and Capilano Suspension Bridge
• Expert traveler tip: During winter, you can find cheaper accommodations. Also, explore the city using Vancouver’s public transit.

Latin America – Medellín, Colombia

Medellín is known as the "City of Eternal Spring" for its perfect weather and is one of the cheapest cities to fly into in Latin America. With budget flights available year-round and a low cost of living, this city is highly affordable and full of local color.

• Average roundtrip flight: $293
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $8–$20
  • Accommodation: $15–$50 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $5–$20 each
• Top attractions: Comuna 13, Plaza Botero, and Medellín Metrocable
• Expert traveler tip: Take public transportation to explore the city for cheap, and enjoy free events in local parks.

East Asia – Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a vibrant metropolis offering a mix of modern skyscrapers and traditional markets, with budget-friendly options for travelers. With increasingly frequent flight deals, this is one of the cheapest Asian cities to fly into.

• Average roundtrip flight: $736
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $10–$25
  • Accommodation: $30–$100 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$20 each
• Top attractions: Victoria Peak, Temple Street Night Market, and Tian Tan Buddha
• Expert traveler tip: Use the Octopus Card for discounted public transport, and eat at local cha chaan tengs (Hong Kong–style cafés) for cheap and delicious meals.

Save big on your next trip. Download the Going app!

Africa – Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg is a fantastic budget-friendly gateway to Africa. With a vibrant mix of nature, culture, and history, this city features plenty of activities that won’t break the bank. It offers affordable flights compared to other major African cities and is a great starting point for safari adventures. 

• Average roundtrip flight: $927
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $10–$20
  • Accommodation: $30–$80 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$30 each
• Top attractions: Apartheid Museum, Nelson Mandela Square, and the Cradle of Humankind
• Expert traveler tip: Opt for shared group tours to visit safaris and cultural sites at a lower cost.

Australia & South Pacific – Fiji

Are you looking for dreamy beaches and tropical scenery? Fiji offers flights to paradise at affordable rates, especially in shoulder seasons when prices drop. Suva, Fiji’s capital, has tons of options for lodging, local markets, and a laid-back vibe ideal for beach-lovers and adventure-seekers alike.

• Average roundtrip flight: $801
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $10–$25
  • Accommodation: $30–$80 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$30 each
• Top attractions: Coral Coast, Colo-i-Suva Forest Park, Nadi Markets, and Sabeto Hot Springs
• Expert traveler tip: Instead of the classic luxury hotels, opt for locally-owned lodges for unique, budget-friendly stays.

Cheapest international destinations by travel type

Adventure travel – Calgary, Canada

Looking for a forest or mountain adventure? Calgary is the ultimate gateway for outdoor-lovers. Nestled near the Canadian Rockies, it offers easy access to Banff National Park, thrilling hikes, and stunning mountain views. Whether skiing in winter or exploring nature in summer, Calgary is an affordable adventure destination.

• Average roundtrip flight: $298
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $10–$25, from small grills and local markets to Italian restaurants in the city center
  • Accommodation: $30–$80 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$30 each
• Top attractions: Banff National Park, Calgary Tower, and Prince’s Island Park
• Expert traveler tip: Save on park entrance fees by visiting during Canada’s free national park days.

Family vacation – Guatemala City, Guatemala

Guatemala City is an unusual yet fantastic, budget-friendly family destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Families can explore ancient Mayan ruins, take scenic lake tours, and enjoy interactive museums ideal for families with children.

• Average roundtrip flight: $319
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $5–$10, with affordable and authentic options at Mercado Central
  • Accommodation: $10–$45 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $5–$20 each
• Top attractions: Tikal Ruins, Lake Atitlán, and La Aurora Zoo
• Expert traveler tip: Visit the children-friendly Mundo Petapa amusement park for an affordable day of fun.

Planning a family vacations? Get the Going app and save thousands!

City escape – Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá blends modern urban energy with a rich cultural past, offering travelers an affordable city escape in South America. From bustling food markets to vibrant street art, this capital city is packed with experiences that won’t break the bank.

• Average roundtrip flight: $312
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $5–$15, with traditional dishes like ajiaco at affordable local spots
  • Accommodation: $15–$50  per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $5–$20 each
• Top attractions: Monserrate, La Candelaria, and Gold Museum
• Expert traveler tip: Take a free walking tour to learn about the city’s history while keeping costs low.

Beach getaway – Cancún, Mexico

Cancún is a world-famous beach destination with stunning turquoise waters and affordable travel options. Beyond the resorts, budget travelers can find great deals on hostels, local eateries, and public beaches.

• Average roundtrip flight: $337
• Daily costs:
  • Food: $10–$25, with options ranging from local street food to more upscale dining options that are still reasonably priced
  • Accommodation: $35–$150 per night, from comfortable hostels to mid-range all-inclusive hotels
  • Attractions/day trips: $10–$20 each
• Top attractions: Playa Delfines, Isla Mujeres, and Chichen Itza
• Expert traveler tip: Use public transportation instead of taxis to explore Cancún affordably.

Tips for finding the best flight deals

Set up price alerts

The best way to land a cheap flight deal is to set up price alerts and stay informed about fare changes. If you feel a bit lost on this subject, you can check our guide to learn more about flight alerts. 

For extra savings, take advantage of Going’s customizable deal alerts. Our memberships make sure you always receive the best flight deals, whether you're traveling domestically or internationally.

Get custom alerts for all the best flight deals, both domestic and abroad. 

Use flexible date search

When you’re looking up your flight, remember to make flexible date searches. This helps you find hidden discounts on flights to various destinations. Midweek flights, particularly on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, often come at lower prices compared to weekends. 

Consider alternative airports

Major hub airports typically have more flight connections and competition, which can drive prices down, so you might consider flying into an alternate airport close to your destination. Additionally, checking smaller regional airports might uncover budget-friendly options, especially when connecting to larger routes.

Monitor fare drops

It’s no secret that fares are constantly going up and down throughout the year. This can feel like a game of chance when booking a trip. Still, if you keep an eye out for the route you're interested in, you’re more likely to spot a drop and have a greater chance to jump on it before the price goes back up.

Consider connecting or regional flights

Adding a regional connection to your route can also cut costs. Instead of booking a direct flight to your final destination, consider flying into a nearby major airport and taking a short regional flight to complete your journey. This strategy helps you take advantage of the prices on competitive international routes and the cheap rates regional airports offer on shorter flights.

Look for nighttime flights

Booking nighttime flights, often called "red-eye flights," can be a great strategy for finding cheaper airfare. These flights are typically less popular due to the inconvenient timing, so airlines may offer lower fares to fill seats. Additionally, red-eye flights are more likely to have fewer passengers, making for a more comfortable travel experience.

Methodology

At Going, our team of experts reviews thousands of potential airfare deals each week, ensuring that our members receive only the best options with substantial savings. On average, we save travelers around $500 roundtrip on each international flight by identifying top deals to destinations worldwide.

For this guide on the cheapest international cities to fly into, we focused on popular metro areas considering factors such as airport size, the number of competing airlines, and route competition—each impacting fare availability and frequency. To ensure accuracy, we analyzed data from the biggest travel search engines and providers from the past year.

We want to make sure you get the best bang for your buck. That’s why we ranked cities based on deal volume, as this can give you a better indication of the actual likelihood of finding cheap flights. This method helps us to present the cities where you’re most likely to score consistently low prices and take advantage of great international deals.