Looking for cheap flights in Australia this year? Budget carriers can cut your airfare dramatically, but policies vary on baggage, seat selection, change fees, and onboard services. Below, we compare domestic low-cost options—Jetstar, Rex Saver, and Bonza (status note)—plus international LCCs serving Australia—Scoot, AirAsia X, Cebu Pacific, and VietJet. We focus on what actually affects your total price: cabin baggage rules, add-ons, typical route strengths, and money-saving strategies.

How to Choose a Budget Airline (Fast)

1. Total trip cost, not base fare: Add carry-on upgrades, checked bags, seat fees, and payment surcharges before comparing.
2. Schedule reliability & network: Check weekly frequencies; more options = easier rebooking during disruptions.
3. Baggage rules change: Re-check the airline’s help/support page before purchase and again before you pack.
4. Sale calendars: LCCs run frequent promos—sign up for sale alerts and use fare calendars for flexible dates.

Domestic Low-Cost Options (Australia)

Jetstar (Qantas Group)

Australia’s largest LCC with the widest domestic network and many trans-Tasman & short-haul international routes. Official portals: Homepage • Help (Baggage/Fees) • Deals.

Rex (Regional Express) – Saver & Lite Fares

Hybrid model with value buckets on city pairs and a broad regional network. Official portals: Homepage • Flight Info (Baggage) • Sales.

Bonza (Status Notice)

Bonza’s operations have been under administration/subject to change. Check the official notice before planning: flybonza.com.

International LCCs Serving Australia (2025)

Scoot (Singapore Airlines Group)

Strong Australia–Singapore links with onward connections. Official portals: Homepage • Support.

AirAsia X

Popular for Australia–Kuala Lumpur and SE Asia. Official portals: Homepage • Support (Baggage/Fees).

Cebu Pacific

Value fares to the Philippines with wide domestic connections. Official portals: Homepage • Travel Info.

VietJet Air

Competitive fares to Vietnam with growing Australian service. Official portals: Homepage • English Portal.

Note: Deep sub-pages frequently change by region/AB-test. Use the portals above, then enter “Baggage/Fees” via the site menu for your locale.

Quick Comparison (Policies & Use Cases)

Fees & Add-Ons: What Usually Changes Your Price

• Cabin/checked baggage: Buy online early; airport purchase costs more.
• Seat selection (standard vs. extra legroom) and priority boarding.
• Payment & booking fees: Methods and channels can add surcharges.
• Change/cancel rules: “Lite/Basic” fares are cheapest but least flexible.

Delays, Cancellations & Your Rights

LCC fleets can be tight; keep contact details updated and monitor app/email notices for schedule changes. Consumer guidance: Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) Air travel info.

Booking Tips for the Lowest Total Price

1. Travel light to stay within cabin allowance; otherwise pre-purchase bags online.
2. Flexible dates: mid-week often cheaper; watch flash sales.
3. Bundles (seat + bags + changes) can be cheaper than à la carte.
4. Secondary airports may reduce taxes/fees if location works.
5. Check frequency for backup options if plans change.

Ready to Hunt a Deal?