Taking a trip to Thailand or Japan is already on the cheaper end of itineraries for Australian travellers. Yet the cost of your next trip could be even more affordable than usual, as Scoot has just announced new flights to Chiang Rai in Thailand, and Okinawa and Tokyo in Japan. Commencing between December 2025 and March 2026, these deals might convince you and the crew to lock in another adventure.

Ready to take to the skies? One-way economy flights to Chiang Rai start at $219, while Okinawa and Tokyo (Haneda) fares start at $329. With all flights from Australia including a stopover in Singapore — Scoot is Singapore Airlines’ low-cost subsidiary — now is your chance to check out what many consider the world’s best airport, from its peaceful butterfly garden to the Rain Vortex — the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.

But if a stellar stopover isn’t enough to convince you to book, the destination at the end of your flight might. Situated in Thailand’s lush northern region, Chiang Rai’s mountainous terrain and cool climate present a different side of the country from its white-sand beachfronts. With the Lanna region home to seven major hill tribes, expect a multicultural experience captured through architecture, cuisine and art.

Okinawa and its 160 island neighbours present a similarly distinct experience for those keen to visit Japan. Located over 600 kilometres south of the mainland, this subtropical archipelago is renowned for its pristine beaches, clear waters and Ryukyu heritage shaped by the region’s indigenous people and culture. Paddle a canoe deep into Yambaru National Park to explore the region’s immense natural beauty.

Though it needs little introduction, Scoot is also offering cut-price fares to Tokyo’s Haneda Airport. Whether you’re heading along for the first time to see what all the fuss is about or returning for a second, third, or fourth adventure, you could spend years exploring this megalopolis and barely scratch the surface. Best of all, making the most of a Tokyo adventure on a shoestring budget is simple with a little research and planning.

Perfect for an end-of-year escape, three-time weekly flights to Okinawa will begin on Monday, December 15, while Scoot will begin five-time weekly flights to Chiang Rai on Thursday, January 1, 2026. Meanwhile, daily flights to Tokyo (Haneda) will commence on Sunday, March 1, 2026. With loads of flights added to the schedule, the launch of these three routes could be just the excuse you need to take off in the months ahead.

Scoot’s new flight service commences from Monday, December 15, with bookings now open. Head to the website for more information.

AloJapan.com