The Singaporean guide to quick getaways & travel tips in 2026

The trip is finally making it out of the group chat, but now comes the hardest part: deciding where to go. When budget, timing, and attractions all come into play, finding a destination that ticks every box and keeps everyone happy can feel like a mission.

Travelling on a budget isn’t as easy as it used to be. Flights, hotels, and even food has become pricier, and favourites like Japan, Korea, and selected parts of Europe are more crowded than ever. But a great vacation doesn’t have to mean long trips; sometimes the best escapes are just around the corner, close to home, and won’t dip into too much of your annual leave.

That’s where things get easier. Skyscanner has rolled out a curated list of the Top 10 Cheapest Destinations for 2026, along with its Cheapest Destination Planner to help take the guesswork out of planning. Every destination is under 10 hours away, proving that an amazing getaway doesn’t have to be far, complicated, or expensive.

According to Cyndi Hui, Skyscanner Travel Trends and Destinations expert, many Singaporeans are seeking smarter ways to plan trips without spending hours scouring for deals.

“For time-starved Singaporeans who value optimisation, the appeal of travel increasingly lies in quick, fuss-free getaways that deliver maximum joy. With great value fares and smart tools that do the hard work for you, Skyscanner helps travellers spend less time planning and more time enjoying the break they deserve,” Cyndi shares.

Skyscanner’s new Cheapest Destination Planner shows you the most affordable places to travel each month, including average flight prices and the cheapest days to fly. With most destinations under $500, planning will feel a lot less overwhelming.

1. Phuket, Thailand

• Average Return Flight Price: $236
• Live Flight Price: $129 return flight
• Cheapest month to travel: January
• Cheapest Day to travel: Monday

Phuket is the perfect tropical escape made for unwinding, with sun-kissed beaches, vibrant nightlife, world-class resorts, and all the classic Pad Thai and Moo Ping you could ask for.

2. Manila, Philippines

• Average Return Flight Price: $240
• Live Flight Price: $161 return flight
• Cheapest month to travel: March
• Cheapest Day to travel: Wednesday

The capital of the Philippines, Manila is a city that never sleeps, buzzing with history, music, and shopping. Lose yourself in Spanish-era streets, hunt for treasures in busy markets, and taste your way through Manila’s vibrant food scene.

3. Bali, Indonesia

• Average Return Flight Price: $247
• Live Flight Price: $141 return flight
• Cheapest month to travel: July
• Cheapest Day to travel: Sunday

There’s no better place than Bali to unwind, with its serene beach clubs, tranquil rice terraces, and gentle spiritual energy. It’s the perfect spot to recharge, catch some waves, and immerse yourself in an island culture shaped by art, wellness, and tradition.

4. Phu Quoc, Vietnam

• Average Return Flight Price: $324
• Live Flight Price: $168 return flight
• Cheapest month to travel: February
• Cheapest Day to travel: Monday

A paradise of clear waters and fresh seafood, Phu Quoc is the epitome of laid-back luxury. Explore lush forests and waterfalls, dive or snorkel in its vibrant waters, and then unwind at cosy resorts and sunset bars.

5. Kuching, Malaysia

• Average Return Flight Price: $349
• Live Flight Price: $104 return flight
• Cheapest month to travel: February
• Cheapest Day to travel: Thursday

Beyond Johor Bahru lies Kuching in Malaysia, a laid-back gateway to Borneo’s rainforests. Here, you can spot wildlife, enjoy riverside cafés, and wander heritage streets in a city full of local charm and relaxed adventures.

6. Taipei, Taiwan

• Average Return Flight Price: $408
• Live Flight Price: $157 return flight
• Cheapest month to travel: January
• Cheapest Day to travel: Tuesday

The capital of Taiwan, Taipei is famous for its stunning temples and rich cultural heritage. A modern city with an abundance of delicious food to try, it’s perfect for exploring vibrant night markets, hiking to panoramic city views, soaking in hot springs, and hopping between trendy cafés.

7. Xiamen, China

• Average Return Flight Price: $437
• Live Flight Price: $261 return flight
• Cheapest month to travel: January
• Cheapest Day to travel: Monday

A coastal escape with island charm, Xiamen offers a world apart from Singapore’s city life. Stroll its colonial lanes, enjoy the seaside, and sample local snacks that keep you exploring.

8. Chongqing, China

• Average Return Flight Price: $474
• Live Flight Price: $191 return flight
• Cheapest month to travel: January
• Cheapest Day to travel: Friday

Home to winding streets and glowing neon lights, Chongqing is China’s iconic mountain city. Famous for its legendary skyline and steaming hotpot, this city of trends is an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

9. Perth, Australia

• Average Return Flight Price: $503
• Live Flight Price: $231 return flight
• Cheapest month to travel: March
• Cheapest Day to travel: Tuesday

The sunny Australian city of Perth offers the perfect coastal calm for those seeking peace and relaxation. Swim at the beach, wander vibrant artsy towns, or savor local food and wine for an easy, nature-filled escape.

10. Harbin, China

• Average Return Flight Price: $517
• Live Flight Price: $223 return flight
• Cheapest month to travel: January
• Cheapest Day to travel: Thursday

Step into the city of ice in Harbin, China, and embrace the icy chill while escaping Singapore’s heat. Enjoy hearty northern cuisine, glide down snowy slopes while skiing or snowboarding, and marvel at the city’s majestic ice sculptures and historic architecture.

To make planning even easier, you can check live accommodation and car hire prices for these destinations on Skyscanner, allowing you to organise your entire trip in one place.

Travel tips and hacks for 2026

Cheapest day to fly

Drumroll please… according to Skyscanner, the cheapest day to fly on average in 2026 is Sunday. While many assume midweek or Saturday would be the best day to snag a deal, the data tells a different story. Keep in mind that prices can still vary depending on your route and the month you travel.

Making use of Drops

With the Drops feature, you’ll get notified when flight prices unexpectedly drop by at least 20%, with deals updated hourly so you always see the latest offers. By constantly scanning flights, Drops helps you snag last-minute or short-trip fares at unusually low prices.

‘Everywhere’ search

This feature lets you rank destinations by price, making it perfect if you want to travel but aren’t sure where to go. It’s a great way to discover new ideas and find your next adventure.

Mix and match your flights and airports

Create a flight itinerary that suits your comfort, budget, and convenience. Expand your options by exploring nearby airports for cheaper fares and less crowded flights. Choosing secondary airports also helps you avoid the rush with smaller terminals and breeze through check-ins.

Take a multi-city trip

For the best of both worlds, a multi-city flight is a great way to explore more destinations in one journey by adding extra legs to your trip. Skyscanner supports this method, allowing you to add up to six legs when planning, making it easier to maximize both your time and airfare while turning a single trip into a richer and more varied experience.