We're halfway through 2025 and never has the lure of escaping to an exotic destination been stronger. In cost-of-living crisis, though, it may also feel out of reach.
But with EOFY just around the corner and the potential for a little extra cash back thanks to the ATO, it might just be the perfect time to plan a getaway. And the Pacific Islands is the perfect spot for those travelling on a budget.
Offering palm fringed beaches, turquoise waters and warm island hospitality, the Pacific Islands are a holiday destination quite unlike any other. And while a holiday here offers just as much as any other exotic island escape, it doesn't need to break the bank.
Spacifica Travel has unbeatable package deals for travel to the Pacific Islands 'Big Five' – Cook Islands, Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa and Tahiti – which, combined with these simple sure-fire ways to save, mean you can make the most of your tax return.
Money saving travel tips
Aim for off-peak season: There is never a bad time to travel to the Pacific Islands, but for great weather and lower prices, aim to travel to the Pacific Islands during the shoulder season (April/May and September/October). The cheapest season to travel coincides with our Australian summer months (January – March) which is the period when most discounted airfares are available. Booking a package deal including flights, transfers, accommodation and meals is the best way to save. Better still, it saves you having to search for bargains and risk disappointment when you arrive at your destination.
Shop and eat at local markets: With a little planning and preparation, you can cut down on the cost of food by visiting local markets for fresh produce and local delicacies. In the Cook Islands, you'll find food trucks and local eateries offering delicious, budget-friendly meals and traditional dishes that will give you an authentic taste of the islands without the high prices. In Fiji, the produce sold at the local markets is great value and while you stock up you can indulge in Indian snacks, Fijian treats, sandwiches and even try the local Kava for a fraction of the cost. Samoan food is made with delicious local produce and is both inexpensive and easy to find. At the local markets you can buy fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and traditional cooked dishes – including delicious Samoan donuts. Roadside stalls are also found all around the islands selling a range of ready-to-go snacks from barbecue fish and meat to fruits and vegetables. While Tahiti may have reputation as a luxe holiday destination, it is possible to eat reasonably cheaply with produce markets and roulottes offering takeaway meals like sandwiches, salads, grilled fish and meat or fish burgers. There's a French bakery on almost every island, where you can enjoy a classic (and cheap) Tahitian breakfast. And for those doing Vanuatu on a budget, stock up at the markets in Luganville. There are also a couple of supermarkets here to stock up on supplies for self-catering.
Use public transport: Most islands have a bus service which is a cheap and easy way to explore. On the Cook Islands, local buses circle the island in a clockwise/counterclockwise direction throughout the day so you can hop on and off as you need. A full trip around the island takes 45 minutes. Most Fijians use the local bus service to travel around the two largest islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, which is very affordable. It's also easy to catch a bus in Samoa – just wave down the driver of any one of the island's brightly coloured buses from the side of the road. The cheapest way to see more of Samoa is to catch the ferry between the two main islands of Upolu and Savai'i. Even in Tahiti, public transport is a budget-friendly option, with frequent buses to and from Pape'ete during peak hours. Hot tip – buy a prepaid bus card, available at the main bus terminal in Pape'ete, for cheaper fares on all routes. Otherwise, it's best to have cash at hand for bus fares. To get around town in Vanuatu, your best options are B-Buses – look for numberplates starting with 'B' to jump on – hitchhiking and hiring trustworthy locals to drive you. Taxis can be cheap if they use the meter.
Focus on free activities: The Pacific Islands are proof that some of the best things in life are free, like relaxing beach days, hiking through incredible landscapes and snorkelling colourful reefs. The Cook Islands offer many low-cost and free activities to enjoy. Spend your days swimming and snorkelling on pristine beaches and exploring local markets where you can experience the local culture, enjoy live music and sample local dishes. Hiking the lush trails on the islands, visiting cultural sites and historical landmarks, needn't cost a cent. Same goes for Fiji where, if you pack your own snorkelling gear, you can enjoy a free activity any time from any island. Hike through the National Parks and bring a board to surf the waves (you can also hire a board if you need). The ultimate Samoan experience is completely free of charge at the Samoa Cultural Village in the heart of Apia. Here you can enjoy interactive experiences like tattoo ceremonies, traditional cooking demonstrations and crafts such as carving, weaving and fabric painting. In Tahiti, visit the Water Gardens of Vaipahi and explore the natural wonders of Arahoho Blowhole and Maraa Grotto without having to reach for your wallet. Vanuatu's Port Vila also has many free attractions you can enjoy. Vila Bay has a series of lagoons and beaches where you can relax the day away, and markets along the main streets offer budget-friendly shopping and dining.
Spacifica Travel can help you turn your tax refund into something unforgettable with incredible package deals available for travel to the Cook Islands, Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa and Tahiti. spacificatravel.com
