Cheap Flights to South East Asia from the UK

Best student & youth fares right now to South East Asia

Have a browse of the below prices to see what we have on sale right now for flights to South East Asia from the UK, and keep checking back, as these prices are updated daily.

Student flights from the UK to South East Asia

South East Asia is a dream come true for backpackers and student travellers. It presents the perfect combination of being absolutely rammed with world-class things to see, do and experience, while at the same time costing a fraction of what the same things in the UK would.

You might have also heard this region called Indochina (not used as much these days). It broadly encompasses the region between China’s southern border and Australia’s northern border, including countries like Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines.

When it comes to getting to South East Asia from the UK, StudentUniverse has your back. We have incredible deals and discounts on South East Asia flights running all the time, and if you sign up to become a member, you’ll get even more money off.

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What are the main South East Asia airport hubs?

he main air transport hubs in South East Asia can be found in its major cities, so think places like Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand, Phnom Penh in Cambodia, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, and of course Singapore.

The region is reasonably compact, and offers itself beautifully to overland travel (which we highly recommend, if you have the time). If you do this, you can fly into one hub when you enter and then out of a different one when you’re ready to leave.

How to fly from the UK to South East Asia

The UK has excellent connections to South East Asia, with a massive choice of both direct and connecting flights from cities like London, Manchester and Edinburgh to cities including Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi in Vietnam, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, and Manila in the Philippines.

You can fly either direct or, often for slightly less, you can use one of the Middle Eastern airlines, like Etihad, Emirates and Qatar, and make a change in Abu Dhabi, Dubai or Doha respectively. This can create a good excuse to spend a few days in one of those places instead of getting straight back on a plane without leaving the airport - why not, if you have the time to spare!

When is the best time to fly to South East Asia?

The climate of South East Asia is largely tropical, and experiences both a wet and dry season. The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit, and runs from around November to around March. The wet season technically runs from April to October, but it really kicks in with force from around June-September. Despite the rains, the wet season is much hotter and much more humid. Also keep in mind major events, and try not to let your travel plans clash, or you could end up paying more.

When is the cheapest time to book a flight from the UK to South East Asia?

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Prices based on bookings made 30-60 days prior to departure.

Why do British students love visiting South East Asia?

British students love visiting South East Asia for the same reasons everyone else does: the food, the scenery, the cities, the wildlife, the energy, and the blissfully low cost of everything, from hotels to transport to beer. Countries like Thailand and Vietnam are perfect for teaching placements, where you can learn on the job while having an amazing travel experience.


South East Asia universities and campuses

South East Asia has some impressive universities and many can offer placements to international students, including those from the UK. The two most prestigious options can both be found in Singapore, and are both in the top 50 worldwide: the National University of Singapore, and Nanyang Technological University. Other top choices include the University of Malaya in Malaysia and the University of the Philippines.


South East Asia lifestyle and culture

South East Asia is a friendly, tolerant, laid-back region. The climate means the locals spend much of their lives outdoors, and street food is hugely popular everywhere, with locals and tourists alike. The dominant religions are Buddhism and Hinduism, and if you see related sites - like temples, for example - you should dress modestly and cover up.


Exploring South East Asia on a student budget

South East Asia is arguably the best region in the world to explore on a student budget. There is an abundance of spectacular things to see and do, and the low prices mean they are accessible to everyone. You can spend as little as £2 a night on accommodation, £1 on a bit of street food and 30p on a beer to wash it down.

Frequently asked questions about flying from the UK to South East Asia

Are there any tourist scams to avoid in South East Asia?

What are some common phrases in South East Asia?