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Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane sale prices have returned…really they barely left, but instead seemed to circulate from different US origins. Prices have fluttered back down to solid sale levels from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Salt Lake City, Dallas, Houston and more. These fares show lots of availability in May, some in June and August, and again many dates in September – December. While the absolute best fares are from major airports, I tested about a dozen regional airports and most were showing prices ~$950, a savings of $100 – $600. (The Pacific Northwest and Florida seem to be sitting this one out.) Those prices aren’t as  good as the insane Australia sale from January, but they’re still potentially cheaper than positioning to an international airport. All 3 eastern Australian cities are pricing within ~ $20 of each other in most cases,  and I was even able to get “open-jaw” routes to work, so you can fly into one city and return from another! Best prices include:

  • Los Angeles from $608
  • San Francisco from $656
  • Denver from  $681
  • Chicago from $681 (limited dates)
  • Houston from $694
  • Phoenix & Tucson from $717
  • Salt Lake City from $721
  • Dallas from $747

Sydney Opera House with pointed roof and a city in the background

These are main cabin fares on United and/or Qantas & American, meaning seat selection is included as well as carry-ons and checked bags. I was able to create dummy bookings on Orbitz and United but Qantas was blocking the lowest fares at times, so look for ticketing options if necessary. Make sure to apply for your Australian Electronic Travel Authorization (E-Visa, similar to the coming requirement for travel to Europe) before you go to ensure you’re allowed to board your flight. Australia discounts seem to come and go regularly this year, but that’s no guarantee they’ll keep coming back, so book  now if you want to spend the summer Down Under. (SEE ALSO: 3 Reasons to Include a Blue Mountain Day Trip During a Visit to Sydney)

Sample Route

  • Departure: LAX
  • Stops: None
  • Arrival: MEL

a screenshot of a trip

How to Book

  • Follow link for sample dates or search your favorite OTA / Google Flights for departure and destination

Travel Dates

  • May – June, July & August (limited), September – December 2019
  • 7-day stay required

Where to Stay in Australia

(SEE ALSO: Holiday Inn Old Sydney Review)

Things to Do in Australia

Good luck and happy flying!


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