Summary
The Best Budget Airlines to International Destinations
- HK Express – Best for budget and to go everywhere: Hong Kong’s only homegrown discount airline may not always have the lowest fares; however, it isn’t entirely no-frills either. It flies into Tokyo’s main airport, unlike many budget airlines. With over a dozen routes to Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Japan, Taiwan, Korea, and even Guam, it serves as a strong starting point for budget travel planning.
- Tigerair – Best for Singapore, Thailand, and India: Offering numerous destinations, Tigerair competes with Jetstar for the most affordable tickets to Singapore while also providing direct connections to several Thai locations, major Australian cities, and an increasing number of Indian routes.
- Jetstar – Best for Singapore: This Australian budget carrier boasts multiple connections to Thailand, Vietnam, and various points in Southeast Asia. However, it is particularly known for economical flights to Singapore, along with ample onward connections to regional Australian cities.
- Cebu Pacific – Best for the Philippines: Weekend trips to the Philippines are favored by many in Hong Kong, and Cebu Pacific serves as the budget-friendly option. Travelers will find flights to Manila, as well as to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, with schedules typically favored for Friday night departures and Sunday morning returns.
- Peach – Best for Japan: Peach provides budget access to Osaka and occasionally other Japanese cities. While navigating its website might be a challenge, the reward is often affordable prices to Japan.
- Air Asia – Best for Malaysia: As one of Asia’s largest budget airlines, Air Asia hasn’t entirely established a solid base in Hong Kong, leading to fluctuating route availability. Although it frequently includes Thailand and Cambodia, its most reliable connections are found in Malaysia, providing cheap onward flights to Australia.
The Best Budget Airlines to China Destinations
- Hong Kong Airlines – Best for Beijing: Securing budget seats to Beijing can be challenging, but Hong Kong Airlines often provides the most competitive prices. Moreover, it also features some great long-haul routes, including to New Zealand, Australia, and Canada.
- Spring Airlines – Best for Shanghai: Regarded as China’s only genuine discount airline, Spring Airlines offers many inexpensive tickets between Hong Kong and Shanghai, especially during midweek. This service opens the door to numerous connections across the country, although expect a truly budget experience with long wait times and communication hurdles.
- Cathay Dragon – Best if you have a bigger budget: Formerly known as Dragonair, this rebranded airline now belongs to Cathay Pacific and primarily operates regional flights across various Chinese cities. Although not classified as a budget carrier, it remains a convenient option for traveling to mid-sized cities in China. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that cheaper regional options may be found at nearby Shenzhen and Guangzhou airports.
Long-Haul, Budget Airlines
When considering long-haul flights, Hong Kong does not have many true budget airlines, aside from those operated by Hong Kong Airlines. To obtain better savings on long-haul routes, travelers should look into flights from Guangzhou and Shenzhen.
- China Southern: Although more of a bargain carrier than strictly budget, China Southern offers an increasing number of long-haul destinations, including various locations in the U.S. and Europe.
- China Eastern: Similar to China Southern, this airline provides fewer direct connections, generally necessitating transfers in Shanghai, but offers competitive fares to the United States and Europe.
