Long-haul travel doesn’t have to mean big spending. In 2025, several budget-friendly airlines are offering long-distance routes at prices that won’t drain your wallet. Whether you're flying from the UK to Asia, North America, or beyond, knowing which airlines offer the best value can save you hundreds of pounds. This guide breaks down the top low-cost carriers for long-haul flights in 2025, based on current routes, pricing trends, and traveler reviews.

1. Norse Atlantic Airways

Where they fly: UK to USA (New York, Los Angeles, Miami)
Why they’re cheap: Norse Atlantic operates a no-frills service, meaning you pay only for what you need—seat, baggage, meals, etc. Their fares are some of the lowest between Europe and North America.

Best for: Travelers heading to the United States on a budget.

2. ZIPAIR Tokyo

Where they fly: London to Tokyo
Why they’re cheap: ZIPAIR is a Japanese low-cost airline owned by Japan Airlines. It offers incredibly affordable fares to Tokyo, especially for those willing to travel light and skip extras like meals or checked bags.

Best for: Long-haul travel to Asia with minimal extras.

3. Scoot

Where they fly: UK (via Europe) to Singapore and Australia
Why they’re cheap: Scoot, owned by Singapore Airlines, connects travelers from the UK to Asia and Australia with low base fares and optional add-ons.

Best for: Backpackers and students heading to Southeast Asia or Oceania.

4. French Bee

Where they fly: Paris to San Francisco, Los Angeles, and more
Why they’re cheap: While not UK-based, French Bee offers cheap transatlantic flights and can be a great option for UK travelers who don’t mind a Eurostop in Paris. Their economy fares are among the lowest for west coast USA flights.

Best for: Budget trips to California and the Pacific coast.

5. PLAY Airlines

Where they fly: UK to the USA via Iceland
Why they’re cheap: PLAY offers a stopover model through Reykjavik. You get two cheap flights instead of one long-haul journey, often for a lot less money.

Best for: Flexible travelers and those open to brief stopovers.

6. TAP Air Portugal

Where they fly: UK to Brazil, the US, and Africa
Why they’re cheap: TAP often runs promotional fares with low-cost stopovers in Lisbon or Porto. Their long-haul economy fares are frequently some of the lowest from Europe to Latin America.

Best for: Travelers to Brazil and South America.

7. AirAsia X

Where they fly: London (via Middle East or Kuala Lumpur) to Southeast Asia and Australia
Why they’re cheap: Although their UK presence is still limited, AirAsia X is making a comeback. With ultra-low base fares and flexible service, they’re ideal for budget-conscious travelers heading to Asia.

Best for: Flexible long-haul travelers who don't mind connections.

What to Watch Out For

While these airlines offer fantastic deals, remember:

• Add-ons cost extra. Always check the total price after including bags, meals, and seat selection.

• No refunds or changes. Budget airlines often charge high fees to change or cancel flights.

• Longer layovers. Some low-cost flights include stopovers that add hours to your journey.

Still, if your main goal is getting there affordably, these trade-offs might be worth it.

Tips to Get the Best Long-Haul Deals

• Book early. Prices rise quickly as seats sell out.

• Be flexible. Mid-week travel is usually cheaper than weekends.

• Use comparison tools. Sites like Google Flights and Easyfares.uk help you spot deals fast.

• Sign up for alerts. Airlines and travel platforms often email discounts to subscribers.

Final Thoughts

Traveling far in 2025 doesn’t have to break the bank. Airlines like Norse Atlantic, Scoot, and PLAY are making it easier than ever to cross oceans on a budget. By choosing the right carrier and staying flexible, you can explore the world without overspending.

So pack your bag, compare your options, and start your next adventure — without the high airfare.