13 CHEAP Places to Fly from Brisbane This Year

You know what’s wild? I keep finding these crazy cheap flights from Brisbane that make me do a double take at the prices. I honestly thought I was seeing things when I spotted some of these deals—we’re talking less than what I spend on a weekend out in the city!

I’ve done the legwork and found the best places in Brisbane to fly from without emptying your savings account. Want to be lounging on a Bali beach or slurping noodles in Singapore way sooner than you thought? I’ve got you covered. These 13 destinations prove you don’t need to be made of money to get out of BNE. Let me show you where you can actually afford to fly this year (and trust me, some of these will shock you).

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Brisbane

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find cheap flight deals. It’s free and super easy to use. All you have to do is enter in your home airport (i.e. BNE) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals.

In 2024 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $225 roundtrip fare from Miami to London. On average, I save about $300 roundtrip on selected flight routes. So, I’m a huge fan and couldn’t recommend them more!

If you’re a frequent flier, consider getting their premium version. It costs $49 per year, but it will easily save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars if you fly just 1-2 times. I recommend signing up for the free trial (which you can cancel at any time) to test it out for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Affordable Travel Destinations from Brisbane

Looking for the best travel destinations from Brisbane? Sydney offers iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach. Melbourne is known for its vibrant arts scene, coffee culture, and hidden laneways. Adelaide boasts world-class wineries, festivals, and beautiful coastal views. Perth combines stunning beaches, a laid-back vibe, and easy access to Rottnest Island. Whether you’re after city life, culture, or relaxation, these are top places to visit from Brisbane.

Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I’ve saved $5,000+ on travel in 2024…so I couldn’t recommend it more!

1. Brisbane to Sydney ($150-$250 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar (30+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌷 and September to November 🍂 for pleasant weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: First-time visitors 🇦🇺, beach lovers 🏖️, city explorers 🏙️

Sydney is Australia’s showstopper where world-famous landmarks, golden beaches, and buzzing neighborhoods come together in one easy getaway from Brisbane. It’s the ultimate coastal city break, whether you’re in for a weekend or something longer.

Circular Quay is where the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge face off across sparkling water. Bondi Beach is just a short bus ride away and delivers that classic Aussie surf scene with wide sands and laid-back cafés. Take the scenic Bondi to Coogee coastal walk for clifftop views, or head to the Rocks District to explore cobblestone laneways, weekend markets, and historic pubs. 

March and September are some of the best times to go, with warm weather and fewer tourists compared to the summer rush. With 30+ flights daily, this is one of the easiest weekend getaways from Brisbane. Early morning and late evening departures tend to be $30 to $50 cheaper than midday flights.

2. Brisbane to Melbourne ($165-$280 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar (25+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🍂 and September to November 🌷 for mild temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Coffee lovers ☕, art enthusiasts 🎨, sports fans 🏏

Melbourne is Australia‘s cultural heart where laneway cafés serve the country’s best coffee, street art covers whole buildings, and locals get weirdly intense about both AFL and their favorite brunch spots.

Hosier Lane is packed with ever-changing murals perfect for your Instagram feed, while the massive Queen Victoria Market is where you can score everything from fresh oysters to hot jam donuts (a Melbourne must-try). The sports scene is huge, where you can catch an AFL match at the MCG or time your visit for the Australian. 

Autumn and spring give you Melbourne’s best weather for exploring on foot without melting in summer heat or freezing in winter winds. These seasons also bring tons of food festivals, markets, and events almost every weekend.

For cheap flights, Jetstar usually has the best deals, especially if you don’t mind flying into Avalon Airport instead of Tullamarine. It’s further out, but the $25 SkyBus gets you to the city easily. 

3. Brisbane to Adelaide ($189-$320 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🍂 and September to November 🌷 for comfortable temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Wine lovers 🍷, festival-goers 🎭, nature enthusiasts 🦘

Adelaide is Australia’s most underrated city, a place where world-class wine regions sit just 30 minutes from downtown, festivals take over the entire city for a month, and everything feels way more laid-back than the east coast capitals.

The Adelaide Central Market is foodie heaven with over 70 traders selling everything from local cheeses to fresh-baked bread, while the nearby Barossa Valley lets you sample some of Australia’s best Shiraz without the crowds of more famous wine regions. Time your visit for “Mad March” when the Adelaide Fringe Festival (second largest in the world) transforms the city into one massive party with hundreds of shows and events. 

For the best flight deals from Brisbane, Jetstar typically offers the lowest fares, though Virgin and Qantas run more frequent services with better timing options. 

4. Brisbane to Perth ($139-$350 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to November 🌷 and March to May 🍂 for ideal weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, outdoor adventurers 🥾, city explorers 🏙️

Perth is like Australia’s secret west coast paradise where pristine beaches stretch forever, the weather is practically perfect year-round, and everything feels way more chilled than Australia’s eastern cities.

Kings Park is one of the world’s largest urban parks with amazing city views and awesome botanical gardens, while Cottesloe Beach offers those perfect turquoise waters and white sand that look straight out of a tourism ad. Take the ferry to Rottnest Island to meet quokkas (those cute marsupials that look perpetually happy) and cycle around car-free beaches. You can also swim with wild dolphins at Rockingham, explore the otherworldly Pinnacles Desert, or taste wines at Swan Valley just 30 minutes from downtown.

Despite being literally across the continent, flights from Brisbane are surprisingly affordable because of fierce competition between airlines. Look for Jetstar sales that sometimes drop one-way fares below $150. Spring and autumn give you Perth at its best.

5. Brisbane to Cairns ($250-$400 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar (12+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October ☀️ for dry season with perfect weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Reef explorers 🐠, adventure seekers 🌴, nature lovers 🦎

Cairns is your gateway to two World Heritage wonders where the ancient Daintree Rainforest meets the spectacular Great Barrier Reef, creating Australia’s ultimate tropical playground just a quick flight north from Brisbane.

The Great Barrier Reef is the main attraction. Join a snorkeling or diving tour to float above colorful coral gardens and marine life, or take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to glide above the world’s oldest rainforest canopy. For epic views without the crowds, ride the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway through mountains and past waterfalls. The city itself is super laid-back with a great Esplanade area where you can chill at the free lagoon pool surrounded by palm trees. 

The dry season is definitely when you want to visit for outdoor activities. For flight deals, Jetstar typically runs the cheapest fares, especially if you book during their frequent sales that can drop prices below $300 roundtrip. 

6. Brisbane to Darwin ($356-$500 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September ☀️ for dry season conditions
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outback adventurers 🦘, wildlife lovers 🐊, cultural travelers 🪄

Darwin is Australia’s tropical capital where red dirt Outback meets Asian-influenced city vibes, creating a uniquely laid-back destination that feels completely different from anywhere else in the country.

The Mindil Beach Sunset Market is legendary for incredible food stalls with influences from across Southeast Asia (try the laksa!), while just outside the city, Litchfield National Park offers gorgeous waterfalls and swimming holes you can actually swim in without worrying about crocs. For the ultimate Aussie experience, head to Kakadu National Park where ancient Aboriginal rock art, massive crocodiles, and stunning landscapes create a real-life Jurassic Park vibe.

Flight options from Brisbane are plentiful but rarely cheap. Your best bet is booking Jetstar during their sales, which can drop prices below $400 roundtrip. The dry season is absolutely when you should visit for warm days around 30°C, cool nights, and practically zero rain. 

7. Brisbane to Hobart ($282-$450 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March 🌞 for summer weather with longer daylight
• 🏆 Perfect for: Nature lovers 🏔️, foodies 🧀, history buffs 🏛️

Hobart sits at the edge of the world on Tasmania’s southern coast where pristine wilderness meets hipster food culture, creating Australia’s most distinctive island getaway that feels like it’s from another era entirely.

The weekly Salamanca Market transforms the historic waterfront into a massive outdoor festival of local produce, crafts, and live music, while the mind-bending Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) houses Australia’s largest private art collection in an underground labyrinth that’ll mess with your head in the best way. For epic views, hike up kunanyi/Mount Wellington where you can see the entire city spread out below you like a miniature model.

Flight-wise, Jetstar usually offers the best deals from Brisbane, though their flight times are often less convenient than Qantas or Virgin. Summer gives you Tasmania at its best, like comfortable temps around 21°C, long daylight hours perfect for hiking, and the full calendar of festivals and events.

8. Brisbane to Canberra ($300-$420 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to November 🌷 and March to May 🍂 for mild weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: History lovers 🏛️, museum-goers 🖼️, nature explorers 🌿

Canberra gets a bad rap as just a boring government town, but Australia’s capital is actually a hidden gem packed with incredible museums, outdoor adventures, and a surprisingly good food scene.

The Australian War Memorial is mind-blowing even if you’re not into history art museum, part shrine, with interactive exhibits that actually keep your attention. The National Gallery of Australia houses the country’s best art collection including Aboriginal masterpieces, while Lake Burley Griffin creates a perfect backdrop for biking, picnics, or just chilling with views of Parliament House. Spring visitors catch the spectacular Floriade Festival when millions of flowers transform the city into a rainbow paradise. 

When it comes to flights, you’re basically stuck with Qantas or Virgin since budget carriers don’t fly this route from Brisbane, but midweek fares often drop by $50-80 compared to weekends. 

9. Brisbane to Gold Coast ($405-$600 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour
• 🛫 Airlines: Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Qantas (15+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌊 and September to November 🌞 for perfect beach weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏄‍♂️, theme park fans 🎢, nightlife seekers 🍹

Gold Coast is basically Brisbane’s party-loving neighbor where 70km of golden beaches meet high-rise hotels and epic theme parks, creating Australia’s ultimate playground just a short flight (or even drive) from Brisbane.

Surfers Paradise is the famous heart of the action with its massive beach and bustling nightlife, while Burleigh Heads offers a more chilled-out surf spot with better local vibes. The theme parks are legendary,  from the white-knuckle rides at Dreamworld to the movie magic of Warner Bros. Movie World. Beyond the tourist strips, you’ll find stunning natural beauty in the Hinterland where rainforest walks lead to hidden waterfalls just 30 minutes from the beaches. 

Since the Gold Coast is just 80km from Brisbane, flying feels almost excessive (you could drive in about an hour), but quick flights can make sense for short trips. Jetstar typically offers the best deals, often dropping below $69 one-way. Autumn and spring deliver the Gold Coast at its finest, warm enough for swimming and sunbathing without the summer humidity, thunderstorms, and peak tourist crowds of December-January. 

10. Brisbane to Newcastle ($144-$300 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to November 🌷 and March to May 🍂 for pleasant temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Coastal explorers 🏄‍♂️, surfers 🌊, wine lovers 🍷

Newcastle is Sydney’s cooler, more laid-back cousin where industrial heritage meets stunning beaches, creating a perfect weekend escape that feels refreshingly authentic compared to Australia’s more touristy coastal cities.

The Newcastle Memorial Walk hugs the coastline with jaw-dropping ocean views from elevated steel walkways, while Merewether Beach offers one of Australia’s best surf breaks with a historic ocean bath built right into the rocks. Just a short drive away, the Hunter Valley wine region lets you sample world-class Semillon and Shiraz without the tourist buses and inflated prices of more famous wine destinations. 

Spring and autumn bring Newcastle’s best weather for visits, warm enough for beach days but without the intense summer heat or winter winds that can whip along the coast. These seasons also tend to have the most consistent surf conditions. For flights, Jetstar typically offers the best deals from Brisbane, with sale fares sometimes dropping below $150 roundtrip. 

11. Brisbane to Townsville ($255-$400 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September ☀️ for dry season with perfect weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Reef lovers 🐠, island hoppers 🏝️, outdoor adventurers 🥾

Townsville is North Queensland’s underrated tropical city where access to the Great Barrier Reef combines with a surprisingly cool urban scene, creating the perfect base for island adventures without Cairns’ tourist crowds.

The Strand is the city’s stunning waterfront promenade with a free oceanside swimming pool, palm trees, and mountain views, while just a quick ferry ride away, Magnetic Island offers the chance to spot wild koalas while hiking through national park trails that lead to secluded beaches. For the best views in town, hike up the distinctive pink granite dome of Castle Hill that dominates the city skyline. 

Jetstar typically offers the best value, though both Virgin and Qantas run multiple daily services with more convenient schedules. The dry season (May to September) is definitely prime time to visit for unlimited sun.

12. Brisbane to Auckland ($499-$800 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Air New Zealand, Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar (12+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🍁 and September to November 🌷 for mild weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: City explorers 🏙️, foodies 🍽️, nature lovers 🌋

Auckland is New Zealand’s biggest city but feels more like a collection of cool villages surrounded by extinct volcanoes, black sand beaches, and island vineyards.

Mount Eden offers the easiest way to take in the city’s unique geography, a 15-minute hike up this dormant volcano gives you 360° views of Auckland’s harbors and volcanic landscape. Take the ferry to Waiheke Island for wine tasting at boutique vineyards with stunning ocean views, or explore the vibrant Viaduct Harbour packed with waterfront restaurants and bars. 

Autumn and spring bring Auckland’s most reliable weather, warm enough for outdoor activities without summer’s occasional humidity and rain or winter’s cooler temperatures. For flight deals, Air New Zealand and Jetstar typically battle it out for the best prices, with periodic sales dropping fares below $550 roundtrip. 

13. Brisbane to Christchurch ($597 roundtrip)

With its picturesque landscapes and a spirit that’s both resilient and vibrant, Christchurch stands as a testament to nature’s beauty and human determination. As one of the cheapest places to fly from Brisbane, this South Island jewel offers travelers a canvas of experiences that are as diverse as they are memorable.

Often, airlines like Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia roll out deals that make the journey to Christchurch both quick and economical. Once there, the city’s charm is palpable. The Avon River meanders through its heart, with punt rides offering a serene way to take in the city’s beauty. The Botanic Gardens, a verdant oasis, bloom in a riot of colors, making for a perfect afternoon stroll.

For those with an adventurous streak, the nearby Port Hills provide hiking trails with panoramic views of the city and beyond. And if history beckons, the Canterbury Museum offers a deep dive into the region’s past.

While Christchurch is a delight year-round, visiting between November and April ensures pleasant temperatures and a host of outdoor activities.

But what truly sets Christchurch apart is its indomitable spirit. Having rebuilt itself after earthquakes, the city today stands as a symbol of resilience, innovation, and hope. With its spot on the list of the cheap countries to fly from Brisbane, Christchurch isn’t just a destination; it’s an inspiration. Ready to embark on a journey that promises both adventure and reflection? The gates of Christchurch are wide open.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Cheapest Flights from Brisbane

Looking to expand your knowledge about the cheapest destinations from Brisbane? Here are some common questions I get a lot about cheap flights from Brisbane to anywhere.

Which destinations are the cheapest to fly to from Brisbane?

Several destinations frequently offer affordable fares from Brisbane. Popular ones include Auckland, Christchurch, Newcastle, Townsville, and the Gold Coast. However, the affordability can vary based on factors like seasonality, special airline promotions, and global events. It’s always a good idea to compare prices across multiple destinations to find the best deal.

Why are flights from Brisbane so expensive?

The cost of flights from Brisbane can vary due to a multitude of factors. Here are some reasons why flights from this Australian city might be on the pricier side:

• High Demand: Brisbane is a major Australian travel hub, and high demand, especially during peak seasons, can drive up prices.
• Limited Competition: Some routes may have limited airline options, reducing competitive pricing and resulting in higher fares.
• Airport Fees: Brisbane Airport’s operational and landing fees can be higher, and these costs are often passed on to passengers.
• Fuel Costs: Longer flights require more fuel, adding to the overall cost, especially given Australia’s geographical isolation.
• Currency Fluctuations: The strength of the Australian dollar can affect the cost of international flights when priced in other currencies.
• Economic Factors: Inflation and the general cost of living in Australia can contribute to higher flight prices.
• Time of Booking: Last-minute flights are generally more expensive, affecting routes from Brisbane as well.
• Quality of Service: Airlines offering higher-end services, even in economy, may charge more for flights departing from Brisbane.

When is the best time to book cheap flights from Brisbane?

Booking your flight several weeks or even months in advance often provides better prices. Mid-week flights, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tend to be cheaper. Additionally, traveling during off-peak seasons, avoiding school holidays and major events, can lead to more affordable rates.

What domestic airlines fly from Brisbane?

Here are some domestic airlines that operate out of Brisbane:

• Qantas: Australia’s flag carrier offers extensive domestic routes from Brisbane, including to cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth.
• Virgin Australia: Another major airline, Virgin Australia provides service to various domestic destinations such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide.
• Jetstar: This low-cost carrier offers flights to popular destinations like the Gold Coast, Cairns, and Melbourne.
• Rex Airlines (Regional Express): Known for regional routes, Rex Airlines serves smaller communities and destinations from Brisbane.
• Alliance Airlines: Primarily focused on regional and charter services, Alliance Airlines offers flights to destinations like Emerald and Rockhampton.
• FlyPelican: This regional airline offers limited services to destinations like Newcastle.
• Skytrans: Specializing in regional Queensland routes, Skytrans offers flights to communities in remote areas.

Which airlines offer the cheapest flights from Brisbane?

Various airlines operate out of Brisbane, offering competitive fares. Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Air New Zealand are among those that frequently have promotions and deals. It’s beneficial to monitor these airlines’ websites and subscribe to their newsletters for exclusive offers.

Can you fly out of Brisbane internationally?

Brisbane Airport (BNE) serves as a significant international gateway, offering flights to a variety of destinations around the world. The airport has a dedicated international terminal that handles flights from multiple international airlines. Here are some key points:

Destinations:

• You can fly to various international destinations from Brisbane, including cities in Asia, North America, Europe, and the Pacific Islands.

Major Airlines:

• Airlines like Qantas, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Air New Zealand are among those that operate international flights from Brisbane.

Is it cheaper to book a round trip or two one-way tickets?

The cost difference between round-trip tickets and two one-way tickets can vary based on the airline, destination, and time of booking. While round-trip tickets often provide better value, there are instances where booking two separate one-way tickets can be more economical. Always compare both options before finalizing your purchase.

Can you fly direct from Brisbane to USA?

Direct flights from Brisbane to the United States are available to cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, which serve as major gateways for further travel within the U.S. Additionally, airlines like Qantas and Virgin Australia have been known to operate direct flights from Brisbane to the U.S.

Do budget airlines fly out of Brisbane?

Yes, Brisbane is serviced by several budget airlines, including Jetstar and Tigerair. These airlines often provide more affordable options to various domestic and international destinations. However, it’s essential to be aware of additional fees for baggage, seat selection, and onboard services.

How does seasonality affect flight prices from Brisbane?

Flight prices can be influenced by demand, which often correlates with seasons. For example, destinations with popular events, festivals, or during school holidays might see increased prices. On the other hand, traveling during off-peak seasons, like the shoulder months between peak seasons, can offer more budget-friendly fares.

Are last-minute flights from Brisbane cheaper?

The notion of last-minute bookings being cheaper is a bit of a gamble. While there are instances where airlines drop prices to fill empty seats, waiting for a last-minute deal, especially during peak travel seasons, can be risky and might not always yield savings.

Which international destinations are cheap to fly to from Brisbane?

Several international destinations offer affordable fares from Brisbane. Common ones include cities in New Zealand, parts of Southeast Asia like Bali and Singapore, and Pacific Islands such as Fiji and Vanuatu. Monitoring fare trends and being flexible with travel dates can lead to significant savings.

Can I get cheaper flights from Brisbane by flying out at odd hours?

Flights during non-peak hours, such as late-night or very early morning, can sometimes be more affordable due to decreased demand. However, while the flight might be cheaper, always consider other factors like transportation to and from the airport at odd hours and potential additional accommodation costs.

When searching for cheap flights, it’s essential to consider the overall travel experience. Factors like flight duration, layovers, airline reputation, and additional fees can significantly impact your journey. Always aim for a balance between cost and convenience for the best travel experience. Safe travels!