Looking for affordable flights in Asia? Here’s the secret: lesser-known airports can cut your travel costs by up to 40%. These airports offer lower fares, fewer crowds, and great connections to major cities.
Key Takeaways:
- Cheaper Fares: Save 25-40% by flying through smaller hubs like Da Nang, Penang, or Chiang Mai.
- Best Booking Times: Book 40-60 days in advance and travel during off-peak months (March-May, September-November).
- Regional Highlights: Airports like Tokyo Haneda, Bali’s Ngurah Rai, or Kuala Lumpur’s KLIA2 offer excellent deals for both domestic and international routes.
- Budget Airlines: Carriers like AirAsia, VietJet, and Scoot keep prices competitive.
Quick Comparison Table:
| Airport | Best Time to Book | Savings (vs Major Hubs) | Notable Routes | Round-Trip Fares (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo Haneda, Japan | 2-3 months ahead | 20-30% | U.S. to Tokyo | $474-$1,077 |
| Xiamen Gaoqi, China | 40 days ahead | 25-35% | Southeast Asia connections | $837 |
| Incheon, South Korea | 2-3 months ahead | 35% | Los Angeles to Seoul | $542 |
| Kuala Lumpur KLIA2, Malaysia | 2-4 months ahead | 30-40% | U.S. to Kuala Lumpur | $500-$600 |
| Denpasar Ngurah Rai, Bali | 8-10 weeks ahead | 30-40% | Southeast Asia island hopping | $49-$200 |
| Chiang Mai, Thailand | 6-8 weeks ahead | 30-35% | Domestic Thailand, regional Asia | $80-$150 |
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1. Tokyo Haneda Airport, Japan
Tokyo Haneda, the busiest airport in Japan, is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Regional flights average around $204, and U.S. travelers can find one-way fares starting at $370 and round-trip tickets for as low as $474 [1][2]. Its central location in Tokyo helps keep overall travel costs lower compared to Narita International Airport.
For U.S. travelers, airfare deals are available year-round. Tuesday flights tend to be the cheapest, averaging $1,176, while Saturdays see higher prices at $1,331 [2]. Airlines like ANA, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa compete heavily on these routes, helping to keep prices reasonable throughout the year [5].
One of Haneda’s standout features is its vast network of domestic flights. This allows travelers to combine international savings with affordable domestic connections, stretching their travel budgets further while exploring various parts of Japan.
While Haneda shines for its affordability and convenience, there are other airports across Asia that offer similar cost-saving opportunities.
2. Xiamen Gaoqi Intl Airport, China
Xiamen Gaoqi might not be the most famous airport in China, but it’s a favorite for budget travelers. With average airfare costs of $281, it ranks as the second most affordable destination in Asia [1]. This airport is a great hub for affordable travel across Southeast Asia and nearby regions.
| Best Time to Book | Lowest One-Way Fare | Lowest Round-Trip Fare |
|---|---|---|
| 40 days ahead | $386 | $837 |
Airlines like Xiamen Airlines and Philippine Airlines often offer great deals from this airport [6]. If you’re looking to save even more, plan your trip for February, one of the cheapest months to fly through Xiamen Gaoqi.
Its location is perfect for travelers wanting to explore mainland China or nearby countries. The airport’s connections make multi-city trips more affordable compared to larger airports in the region.
To stretch your travel budget further, try tools like Skyscanner’s ‘Whole month’ feature to pinpoint the cheapest travel dates [3]. Combined with the airport’s naturally lower fares, this makes Xiamen Gaoqi a smart choice for cost-conscious travelers.
Smaller airports like Xiamen Gaoqi show that you don’t need to rely on major hubs to save money. Next, let’s look at how Dalian Zhoushuizi offers even more unique travel options.
3. Dalian Zhoushuizi Intl Airport, China
Dalian Zhoushuizi offers one-way flights starting at just $101, making it one of the most affordable airports in Asia. For comparison, fares are much higher at Tokyo Haneda ($204) or Xiamen Gaoqi ($281) [1]. Its location in northeastern China makes it a convenient gateway to major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, perfect for planning multi-city trips.
The airport supports a wide range of domestic and international routes, making it a great option for travelers visiting several destinations. Despite the low ticket prices, Dalian Zhoushuizi ensures smooth operations and dependable connections across Asia, offering a good balance of cost and convenience for both regional and international journeys.
While Dalian is a favorite for budget travelers, airports like Incheon International in South Korea also stand out for offering cost-effective flights and strong global connections.
4. Incheon Intl Airport, South Korea
Incheon International Airport is a budget-friendly hub for traveling in Asia, with over 100 airlines connecting to 180 destinations worldwide [6]. Some standout deals include flights to mainland China, such as routes to Dalian starting at just $101 – an impressive 75% below the regional average [1]. For North American travelers, round-trip flights from Los Angeles can drop as low as $542 during off-peak months like October and November [5].
Its close proximity to Seoul makes it not only convenient but also a great option for affordable fares. The high volume of flights and competitive airline presence make it ideal for travelers planning multi-city trips across Asia. Traveling during off-peak times (October-November) can save you up to 35%, while shoulder seasons offer moderate discounts.
| Season | Fare Reduction | Best Time to Book |
|---|---|---|
| Off-Peak (Oct-Nov) | Up to 35% | 2-3 months ahead |
| Peak (Jul-Aug) | Up to 15% | 4-6 months ahead |
| Shoulder (Mar-May) | Up to 20% | 3-4 months ahead |
Setting up price alerts is a smart way to catch the best deals, especially during off-peak travel periods. In addition to its affordability, Incheon offers modern conveniences like free Wi-Fi, making it an efficient and comfortable hub for international connections.
While Incheon stands out for its cost-effectiveness and global reach, other airports, like Taiwan Taoyuan, also provide excellent options for travelers on a budget.
5. Taiwan Taoyuan Intl Airport, Taiwan
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, located near Taipei, is a great choice for travelers looking to explore Asia on a budget. Its location makes it a convenient hub for affordable travel across the region.
Flights from Los Angeles to Taipei often cost less than $400 one-way during off-peak seasons, with round-trip fares typically under $500 [1][2]. From Taipei, you can find low-cost flights to destinations like Bangkok for under $200 one-way, making it an excellent option for multi-city trips across Asia [2].
| Travel Season | Typical Savings | Best Booking Window |
|---|---|---|
| Off-Peak (Oct-Nov) | 25-35% | 2-3 months ahead |
The airport handles over 1,000 weekly departures, offering frequent and affordable connections to major cities in Asia, Europe, and North America [4]. Its modern facilities, efficient check-in process, and easy access to Taipei city center via buses and trains make it a convenient choice for both business and leisure travelers [3].
For the best deals, plan your trip during off-peak months like October and November. Use tools like Skyscanner or Kayak to set up price alerts, as fares are often lowest at least two months before departure.
While Taiwan Taoyuan stands out for its affordability and connections, Singapore Changi Airport also has plenty to offer for budget-conscious travelers.
6. Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore
Singapore Changi Airport links over 200 cities globally with 400 daily flights, making it a top choice for budget travelers [4]. While it’s well-known worldwide, its growing lineup of low-cost carriers makes it an excellent option for affordable travel across Asia.
Thanks to its location in Southeast Asia, Changi serves as a key gateway to nearby countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. According to Skyscanner, one-way flights from Changi to other Asian destinations can start at just SGD 150 (around USD 110) [7]. Airlines such as Scoot and Jetstar Asia provide particularly low fares to cities like Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Jakarta.
| Season | Average Savings | Best Booking Window |
|---|---|---|
| Off-Peak (Mar-May) | 20-30% | 2-3 months ahead |
| Peak (Dec-Jan) | 10-15% | 4-5 months ahead |
Tips for saving at Changi:
- Travel during off-peak months and opt for early morning or late-night flights for better deals.
- Compare fares across different budget airlines to find the best price.
- Use multi-city itineraries to take advantage of Changi’s broad route network.
Changi’s connectivity also makes it ideal for planning multi-city trips in Southeast Asia. For example, connecting flights to smaller cities often cost much less than direct routes from larger hubs like Tokyo or Seoul.
Next, we’ll look at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, another great option for affordable travel in the region.
7. Kuala Lumpur Intl Airport, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) is a top pick for budget travelers in Southeast Asia, thanks to its low-cost carrier terminal, KLIA2, and its role as a key gateway to Asia. Unlike Singapore Changi, which focuses on connectivity, KUL shines for its affordability and strong network of budget airlines.
The KLIA2 terminal is a hub for low-cost carriers like AirAsia, offering travelers easy access to a wide range of Asian destinations at wallet-friendly prices. For example, AirAsia has one-way flights starting at just $20, and long-haul flights from Los Angeles to Kuala Lumpur typically range between $500 and $600 [1].
| Season | Typical Savings | Best Booking Window |
|---|---|---|
| Peak (Dec-Feb) | 15-20% | 4 months ahead |
| Off-Peak (Oct-Nov) | 30-40% | 2 months ahead |
| Shoulder (Mar-Sep) | 20-25% | 3 months ahead |
If you’re traveling during off-peak months like October and November, you can score savings of up to 40% [2]. To stretch your budget further, book flights during these months, keep an eye on deals from Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia, and consider connecting flights for even better rates.
As a major Southeast Asian hub, KUL offers frequent flights and competitive prices, making it ideal for travelers planning multi-city trips across Asia. Its affordability and wide range of options put it in the same league as Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, which we’ll look at next.
8. Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand
Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is a popular choice for travelers looking to save money while exploring Asia. With over 65 million passengers passing through in 2022 [2], it’s one of the busiest airports in the region, known for its affordable fares and wide range of connections.
Thanks to its central location in Southeast Asia, BKK serves as a convenient gateway for exploring the region. Airlines like Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways, along with budget carriers such as AirAsia, keep prices competitive. During the off-peak travel period (May to September), round-trip flights from major U.S. cities can cost as little as $800 [5].
| Season | Best Deals | Recommended Booking Window |
|---|---|---|
| Peak (Nov-Jan) | $1,000-1,200 | 4-5 months ahead |
| Shoulder (Feb-Apr) | $900-1,100 | 3-4 months ahead |
| Off-peak (May-Sep) | $800-1,000 | 2-3 months ahead |
BKK offers frequent connections, making it easy to find flexible schedules and low prices, particularly for flights within Asia. For example, routes to cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Singapore are often priced lower compared to other major airports.
To save even more, aim to book weekday flights during off-peak hours and seasons like May through September, when fares are at their lowest. The Airport Rail Link provides an affordable way to reach Bangkok’s city center, adding to the cost-effectiveness of traveling through BKK. Ongoing airport improvements are also designed to make travel more convenient without raising costs.
For those looking for alternative budget-friendly airports, nearby options like Ho Chi Minh City Tan Son Nhat may also offer great deals.
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9. Ho Chi Minh City Tan Son Nhat Intl Airport, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) stands out as a budget-friendly hub for travelers exploring Southeast Asia. Offering fares that can be up to 30% lower than major hubs like Tokyo or Singapore, SGN is a great choice for those looking to save on international routes.
| Travel Season | Price Range (USD) | Best Booking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Peak (Dec-Feb) | $900-1,200 | 4+ months ahead |
| Shoulder (Mar-May) | $700-900 | 2-3 months ahead |
| Off-peak (Sep-Nov) | $600-800 | 1-2 months ahead |
Carriers like Vietnam Airlines and VietJet frequently offer budget-friendly flights from SGN, making it a great starting point for multi-city trips in the region. Plus, the airport’s close proximity to downtown Ho Chi Minh City helps keep transportation costs low, with quick and affordable transit options readily available.
Thanks to its central location in Southeast Asia, SGN is a smart choice for travelers planning multi-country itineraries. Its competitive fares and convenient connections make it easier to explore the region without overspending.
For those looking at other options, airports like Manila Ninoy Aquino in the Philippines also provide budget-conscious travelers with affordable alternatives.
10. Manila Ninoy Aquino Intl Airport, Philippines
Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) stands out with airfares averaging 20% lower than other Southeast Asian airports. For budget travelers, this makes it a go-to hub, especially for trips within the Philippines and nearby countries. Unlike pricier options like Singapore Changi, MNL consistently delivers more affordable ticket prices.
| Season | Average Fares (USD) | Best Booking Window |
|---|---|---|
| Low (Jun-Aug) | $500-600 | 6-8 weeks ahead |
| Shoulder (Mar-May, Sep-Nov) | $600-800 | 8-10 weeks ahead |
| Peak (Dec-Feb) | $800-1,000 | 12-14 weeks ahead |
Local carriers such as Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines frequently offer deals, with domestic flights starting at just $20 and international routes, like Hong Kong, priced under $200 round-trip during off-peak seasons. MNL’s location near hotspots like Boracay and Cebu makes it a great starting point for island-hopping adventures across Southeast Asia.
Here are a few tips to save even more:
- Fly during off-peak months (June-August) for the best prices.
- Look out for midnight sales from local airlines.
- Opt for early morning or late-night flights to snag the lowest fares.
MNL is also a smart choice for multi-city itineraries to destinations like Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. Plus, affordable food options and convenient transport links to downtown Manila help keep overall travel expenses down.
"Recent data shows that flights from MNL are, on average, 20% cheaper than other major Southeast Asian airports, making it a top pick for budget travelers."
Up next, we’ll dive into Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport in Indonesia and its budget-friendly offerings for travelers.
11. Denpasar Ngurah Rai Intl Airport, Indonesia
Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali is a budget-friendly entry point to Southeast Asia, with fares often 30-40% cheaper than hubs like Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. It connects travelers to both international destinations and Indonesia’s islands, making it perfect for regional adventures.
| Travel Season | Average Savings | Best Booking Window |
|---|---|---|
| Low (Apr-Jun) | 30-40% | 8-10 weeks ahead |
| Shoulder (Sep-Nov) | 20-25% | 6-8 weeks ahead |
| Peak (Jul-Aug, Dec-Jan) | 15-20% | 12-14 weeks ahead |
Affordable options abound, with budget airlines like AirAsia and Scoot offering fares starting at $49 one-way from major Southeast Asian cities [1]. Domestic flights with Garuda Indonesia can cost as little as $30, making island-hopping within Indonesia easy on the wallet [2].
DPS stands out for its modern facilities and prime location, ideal for multi-destination itineraries. It serves as a hub for both global and regional airlines, offering broad connectivity across Southeast Asia. Recent expansions have increased capacity while keeping prices competitive, a win for those planning to visit multiple spots in the region.
"Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport consistently offers 20-30% lower fares compared to other major Southeast Asian hubs, particularly during off-peak seasons", according to regional aviation experts.
While Denpasar is a great choice for affordable travel and exploring Indonesia, Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport in Vietnam is another cost-effective option for discovering Asia.
12. Hanoi Noi Bai Intl Airport, Vietnam
Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is a hidden gem among Asia’s travel hubs, offering budget-friendly routes to cities like Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur for under $150 during off-peak months. As a major base for Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air, it connects travelers to a wide range of destinations across the region.
| Season | Avg. Savings | Popular Routes | Typical Fares |
|---|---|---|---|
| Off-peak (Oct-Nov) | 25-35% | Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur | $100-150 one-way |
| Shoulder (Mar-Apr) | 20-25% | Seoul, Tokyo, Beijing | $150-200 one-way |
| Peak (Dec-Feb) | 15-20% | Australia, Europe | $200-300 one-way |
Its location in northern Vietnam makes it a convenient gateway for exploring the region. Recent upgrades have increased its capacity to handle 32 million passengers annually, all while maintaining competitive fare options. Vietjet Air and other low-cost carriers frequently run promotions, making it easy to plan affordable multi-city trips.
"Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport’s strategic location and growing network of budget carriers have established it as one of Southeast Asia’s most economical aviation hubs, consistently offering 20-30% lower fares compared to major regional airports", say regional aviation experts.
For the best deals, book flights between October and November, when demand is lower, and the weather is still pleasant. With expanding international routes and affordable pricing, this airport is a great choice for budget travelers heading to Asia.
If you’re looking for other wallet-friendly options, Chiang Mai International Airport in Thailand is another strong contender for affordable travel in the region.
13. Chiang Mai Intl Airport, Thailand
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is a budget-friendly gateway to northern Thailand and nearby countries, offering fares that are 20-30% lower than major regional hubs. Located just 3 km southwest of downtown Chiang Mai, its proximity and lower operating costs have turned it into a popular choice for cost-conscious travelers.
| Season | Average Fares (USD) | Typical Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Off-peak (Apr-May) | $80-120 | 30-35% |
| Shoulder (Sep-Oct) | $100-150 | 25-30% |
| Festival (Nov-Feb) | $150-200 | 20-25% |
Airlines such as AirAsia and Nok Air, as well as full-service carriers like Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways, keep fares competitive on regional routes. If you’re flying during the off-peak months of April and May, you can save up to 35%. The shoulder season in September and October offers a mix of good weather and reduced tourist crowds, making it a great time to find deals.
"With its strategic location and lower operational costs, Chiang Mai International Airport has become a rising budget travel hub, offering consistently lower fares compared to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport while maintaining excellent connectivity to major Asian destinations", says a regional aviation expert.
Even during busy times like the Chiang Mai Flower Festival, airlines often roll out promotions, keeping fares reasonable. Recent upgrades to the airport have boosted its capacity without compromising affordability, making it a smart choice for travelers planning multi-city trips across Southeast Asia.
While Chiang Mai International Airport is a standout for its affordability and connections, Penang International Airport in Malaysia also offers unique cost-saving options for Southeast Asia travelers.
14. Penang Intl Airport, Malaysia
Penang International Airport (PEN), located near George Town, is a smart choice for travelers seeking budget-friendly flights to Malaysia and Southeast Asia. It often offers fares that are noticeably cheaper than larger regional hubs like Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
| Season | Average Fares From Singapore (USD) | Savings vs. KLIA |
|---|---|---|
| Peak (Dec-Feb) | $150-180 | 15-20% |
| Shoulder (Mar-May, Sep-Nov) | $100-130 | 25-30% |
| Off-peak (Jun-Aug) | $80-100 | 30-35% |
Penang’s smaller airport size helps keep fares competitive, with prices often 20-30% lower than those at Kuala Lumpur. This affordability has made it increasingly popular, attracting both major airlines and budget carriers.
"Penang International Airport’s location and lower costs make it a budget-friendly alternative to Kuala Lumpur", says a regional aviation expert [3].
Major airlines such as Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines compete directly with budget carriers, ensuring affordable fares while maintaining strong connectivity. International travelers can also find great deals, like flights from Los Angeles to Penang priced around $600 – much cheaper than flights to hubs like Tokyo or Singapore [1].
Another perk of Penang is its proximity to George Town, which helps reduce ground transportation costs. Recent upgrades to the airport, including expanded passenger terminals, have improved the travel experience without raising prices [5].
To snag the best deals, book flights 2-3 months in advance, especially during mid-week. The shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) are ideal for finding lower fares and enjoying pleasant weather.
While Penang stands out for its affordability and location, travelers might also consider Da Nang International Airport in Vietnam as another great option for budget-friendly Southeast Asia trips.
15. Da Nang Intl Airport, Vietnam
Da Nang International Airport (DAD) offers flights that are up to 40% cheaper compared to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City airports, making it one of Asia’s most budget-friendly travel hubs. Situated in central Vietnam, this modern airport connects travelers to hotspots like Hoi An and Hue while keeping costs manageable.
| Season | Average Round-trip Fares (USD) | Savings vs Major Hubs |
|---|---|---|
| Peak (Dec-Feb) | $280-350 | 25-30% |
| Shoulder (Mar-May, Sep-Nov) | $200-250 | 35-40% |
| Off-peak (Jun-Aug) | $180-220 | Up to 40% |
The airport’s growing appeal has attracted both budget airlines and full-service carriers, creating competition that keeps ticket prices low. VietJet Air and Jetstar often offer one-way flights from Bangkok for under $100, while traditional airlines stay competitive to retain travelers.
Located just 2 km from Da Nang city center, the airport is easy to reach. Public buses cost less than $1, and taxis typically range between $5-7. Recent upgrades to the airport have improved passenger experience without driving up costs.
"Skyscanner ranks Da Nang among Asia’s top 10 cheapest airports, with up to 40% savings versus Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City."
To save the most, book flights 2-3 months in advance and aim to travel during shoulder seasons (March-May or September-November). These months offer pleasant weather and lower fares. Early morning or late evening flights usually have the best prices, and midweek departures (Tuesday to Thursday) often come with extra savings.
Round-trip flights to Southeast Asia from Da Nang can be $200-300 cheaper than flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Plus, its proximity to cultural gems like Hoi An (30 minutes away) and Hue (2 hours away) adds a lot of value for travelers.
Da Nang shows how smaller airports in Asia can combine affordability and convenience, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to explore Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage without overspending.
Conclusion
These 15 airports offer a great way for travelers to cut costs while discovering Asia. Data shows that choosing these alternative hubs can lead to savings of 25-40% compared to larger, more well-known airports.
Here’s how you can make the most of these savings:
- Book Early: Reserving flights 40-60 days in advance can save you 20-35%.
- Travel During Shoulder Seasons: Flying in March-May or September-November can reduce costs by 25-40%.
- Pick the Right Time of Day: Early morning or late evening flights can lower expenses by 15-25%.
These airports not only help you save money but also offer excellent connectivity and reliable services. Their locations and expanding networks make them perfect for exploring Asia’s variety of destinations on a budget.
"The key to finding exceptional flight deals in Asia is looking beyond the obvious choices. Lesser-known airports often provide similar convenience with significantly lower prices", says Maksim Koval, founder of Tiket2, a platform specializing in Asia Pacific travel deals.
Beyond saving money, these airports open doors to cultural experiences and destinations that often get overlooked. Thanks to lower operational costs and competitive airline options, travelers can stretch their budgets further without sacrificing quality.
To get the best deals, try:
- Staying flexible with your travel dates.
- Using flight comparison tools to monitor prices.
- Checking multiple nearby airports for better options.
- Combining flights for multi-city trips to optimize savings.
These airports prove that traveling in Asia can be affordable without giving up convenience or comfort. By including these lesser-known hubs in your plans, you can save money and discover unique travel opportunities across the region.
Tips for Finding Flight Deals
After identifying the best airports for budget travel, let’s dive into strategies to help you save money when booking flights to these destinations.
Tools like Tiket2’s Promo Radar™ can uncover discounts of up to 80% on Asia Pacific flights, while Skyscanner’s Price Alerts instantly notify you when fares drop [2]. Timing is crucial – flights on Tuesdays are often cheaper than weekend options, and morning departures tend to have the lowest fares [5].
Here are some effective ways to stretch your travel budget:
- Track Price Trends: Use flight comparison tools to monitor fare changes and book when prices are at their lowest [2].
- Choose the Right Months: October and November are often the cheapest months for flights to many Asian destinations [5].
- Fly in the Morning: Morning flights can save you up to $179 compared to midday departures [5].
| Departure Time | Average Price | Savings Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | $1,256 | $179 |
| Noon | $1,435 | – |
| Evening | $1,331 | $104 |
"Monitor multiple routes and book as soon as prices drop to secure the best deals", says Maksim Koval, founder of Tiket2. "Our data shows travelers who use price tracking tools save an average of 25-40% on their flights."
Another tip: consider flying out of alternative cities. Pairing this with smart timing and the right tools can make a big difference in what you pay for your next trip to Asia.