US/Canada Laos 40–80% OFF
Cheap flights discovered by AI✨
Fly round-trip to Vientiane for $525, while others pay $1,400+.
Our AI finds Superdeals to Laos from all major airports in North America. You book directly with airlines for half the price—or less.
Why are flights to Laos so expensive in 2026?
Flights from the US and Canada to Laos cost so much because the cheap Chinese airlines that used to fly this route are mostly gone.
Before 2020, you could fly from Los Angeles to Vientiane for around $950 to $1,150 round trip. Chinese carriers like China Southern offered budget-friendly routes through cities like Guangzhou. Today, that same trip costs $1,650 to $2,100 on airlines like Korean Air or EVA Air.
So what happened? First, flights between the US and China dropped by about 75%. Those cheap connections through China simply vanished. Second, Laos is a small destination with no direct flights from North America. You have to connect through hubs like Seoul or Singapore, and those premium airlines charge more because they can. Third, some regional planes that fly the final leg into Vientiane are grounded for engine repairs. Fewer seats means higher prices on your entire ticket. Finally, airlines must pay for fuel and planes in US dollars, so they cannot lower prices even when local costs drop.
The outlook: Do not expect big price drops anytime soon. Until more flights resume between the US and China, or until Laos opens its skies to more carriers, fares will stay high. Your best bet is to book several months ahead and stay flexible with your travel dates.
Meet Superdeals
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You can save between 40% and 80% on your flights to Laos — and to other Asian countries — with Air Traveler Club Superdeals.
We monitor all major airports in North America for cheap flights to Asia, including:
- Atlanta (ATL) — Georgia, US
- Toronto (YYZ) — Ontario, Canada
- Chicago (ORD) — Illinois, US
- Los Angeles (LAX) — California, US
- Denver (DEN) — Colorado, US
- Montréal (YUL) — Quebec, Canada
- Dallas (DFW) — Texas, US
- New York (JFK) — New York, US
- San Francisco (SFO) — California, US
- Vancouver (YVR) — BC, Canada
Departure airports in North America and destinations in APAC covered by Superdeals.
Superdeals to Laos
Fly for half price (or less)
Airlines don't design their pricing systems to offer half-price tickets. However, when algorithms detect demand shortfalls for specific routes, automated systems apply steep discounts to fill planes. Airlines would rather accept losses than fly with empty seats.
ATC monitors thousands of routes from US/Canada 24/7, detecting Superdeals with 40–80% discounts. While a typical return flight from North America to Vientiane costs $1,400+, with Superdeals you can often grab it for around $525:
Which airlines have promotions to Laos right now?
We track and curate genuine offers from 150+ airlines, hand-picking only the most valuable for your wallet.
Which carriers have sales and special offers for flights in February, March, April and beyond? You can now browse the entire collection of active promotions:
Browse promos →Popular airlines with frequent offers from the US and Canada:
Travel hacks and insights
for North America — Laos flights
Verified strategies to save money and avoid friction on routes to Laos.
Stick to marked paths due to UXO
Laos is the most heavily bombed country per capita in history. Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) remains a lethal threat in rural areas. When visiting the Plain of Jars or remote villages, never step off marked paths.
Do not touch any metal objects found in the ground. This is particularly relevant for travelers flying into provincial airports like Xieng Khouang (Phonsavan) where UXO contamination is highest.
Split tickets via Bangkok save 30% vs direct
North American carriers price through-tickets to Laos at a premium due to limited interline agreements. Booking a roundtrip to Bangkok (BKK) on major carriers, then a separate ticket on AirAsia or Lao Airlines to Vientiane, typically saves 30-40% compared to a single itinerary.
Ensure a 4-hour buffer in Bangkok to clear immigration and collect bags. If connecting to AirAsia, verify if the flight departs from Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or requires a transfer to Don Mueang (DMK), which adds significant travel time.
Vancouver departures save $300-500 vs US gateways
Flights to Southeast Asia via transpacific routes are frequently $300-500 cheaper departing from Vancouver (YVR) compared to Seattle (SEA) or San Francisco (SFO). This is due to lower airport taxes and aggressive pricing competition by Asian carriers serving the Canadian hub.
For US travelers, a cheap positioning flight or train ride to Vancouver often yields net savings of $200+ per person. This arbitrage is particularly valuable for families or business class bookings where the price gap widens significantly.
China Eastern undercuts competitors by $400
China Eastern via Kunming (KMG) consistently offers the lowest fares from North America to Vientiane, often $400-600 cheaper than Korean Air or EVA Air. The trade-off is often a long layover in Kunming, but the savings are substantial.
US and Canadian citizens can utilize the 144-hour transit visa-free policy in Kunming if the layover permits, allowing a brief city visit. Always verify the current transit visa suspension status and ensure your itinerary qualifies before booking.
Open-jaw into Vientiane, out of Luang Prabang
Laos is best explored linearly north to south or vice versa. Booking an “open-jaw” ticket arriving in Vientiane (VTE) and departing from Luang Prabang (LPQ) costs roughly the same as a roundtrip but saves a full day of travel backtracking.
Use the “Multi-city” search function on Google Flights to build this itinerary. This eliminates the need for a domestic flight or 10-hour bus ride back to your starting point just to catch a flight home.
Hydrate aggressively for 15-hour transpacific legs
Flights from North America to Asian hubs average 13-16 hours. Cabin humidity on older aircraft like 777s drops to 4%, and dehydration exacerbates jet lag significantly on this route.
Bring a 1L empty bottle through security and fill it before boarding. Aim to drink 250ml every 2 hours. Avoid alcohol, which accelerates dehydration, and prioritize sleep during the “night” phase of the destination time zone to adjust faster.
What travelers ask most
Expert answers on routing, carriers, timing, and fees
Are there any new direct flights to Laos from North America?
No, there are still no direct flights from North America to Laos. You must connect through a regional hub, most commonly Bangkok (BKK), Hanoi (HAN), or Seoul (ICN). Recent schedule expansions by Lao Airlines and VietJet in 2024 have improved connectivity from these hubs to Vientiane and Luang Prabang, but you will always require at least one stop. The most efficient route remains a transpacific flight to Bangkok followed by a short 70-minute hop to Vientiane.
Do I need to use the new digital entry declaration for Laos?
Laos is transitioning toward digital entry forms, but as of late 2024, paper arrival cards are still widely used and available on the plane. While a QR-code based system is being rolled out at major borders like the Friendship Bridge, Vientiane (VTE) and Luang Prabang (LPQ) airports still accept standard paper forms. It is smart to carry a pen and be prepared for either method, as implementation consistency varies by entry point.
Why do I need pristine US dollar bills for Laos?
Laos has an extremely strict “crisp bill” policy—banks and merchants will reject USD notes with even tiny tears, ink marks, folds, or fading. Bring new-design $100 and $50 bills for exchanging, as they get better rates than smaller denominations. Keep your cash flat in a book or rigid holder, because if your visa fee money is wrinkled or torn, immigration officers may refuse to accept it, leaving you scrambling for an alternative.
What is the best SIM card for tourists in Laos?
Unitel offers the extensive coverage, especially if you plan to trek or visit rural areas, while Lao Telecom is excellent for city speeds. You can buy a tourist SIM at Vientiane or Luang Prabang airport arrivals for $5-10 USD, which typically includes 10GB-20GB of data. E-sims (like Airalo) work well but are often 2-3 times more expensive than buying a physical local SIM card directly upon arrival.
Is tipping customary in Laos?
Tipping is not traditionally expected but is highly appreciated given the low local wages. For guides and drivers, a tip of $5-10 USD per day is standard for good service. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 10,000-20,000 Kip (approx $0.50-$1) is a kind gesture. Unlike in the US, there is no fixed percentage rule, but small contributions make a significant difference to service staff.
Can I pay with credit cards in Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng?
Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted at mid-range to luxury hotels and upscale restaurants, usually with a 3% surcharge. However, the vast majority of guesthouses, street food stalls, tuk-tuks, and local shops operate on a cash-only basis. You will need a steady supply of Lao Kip for daily expenses, so withdraw cash from ATMs (BCEL is reliable) in major towns before heading to remote villages.
Is it safe to hike off-trail in Laos given the UXO history?
No, never hike off marked trails in Laos due to the extreme danger of Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) left from the Vietnam War era. Laos is the most heavily bombed country per capita in history, and millions of “bombies” remain live in the soil, particularly in the Plain of Jars and eastern provinces. Always hire a local guide for trekking and stick strictly to well-trodden paths to ensure your safety.
What power adapter do I need for Laos?
Laos typically uses a mix of flat two-pin (US style, Type A) and round two-pin (Euro style, Type C/E/F) sockets at 230V. Most outlets are “universal” types that accept both US and Euro plugs without an adapter. However, North American devices must be dual-voltage (110-240V) to handle the higher voltage; check your hair dryer or shaver label carefully to avoid frying them.
Nonstop (direct) vs 1-stop
How much do flights from US/Canada to Laos cost?
No nonstop service exists between US/Canada and Laos. All routings require at least one connection, with total journey times of about 22-32 hours depending on hub choice.
This is standard for the route—most travelers connect through Bangkok (BKK), Seoul (ICN), or Singapore (SIN) with minimal hassle. Select connection times of 2.5-4 hours for international-to-international transfers—enough buffer for customs, security, and gate changes without excessive waiting.
All ATC Superdeals are manually verified for optimal connection times and efficient hub routing.
| Route | Airline(s) | Journey Time | Avg Price | Avg ATC Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles (LAX) → Seoul (ICN) → Vientiane (VTE) | Korean Air / Lao Airlines | 23h 30m | $1,350 | $345 (74% off) |
| San Francisco (SFO) → Singapore (SIN) → Luang Prabang (LPQ) | Singapore Airlines / Lao Airlines | 24h 10m | $1,450 | $365 (75% off) |
| New York (JFK) → Bangkok (BKK) → Vientiane (VTE) | Thai Airways / Lao Airlines | 25h 40m | $1,500 | $380 (75% off) |
| Toronto (YYZ) → Seoul (ICN) → Vientiane (VTE) | Air Canada / Korean Air | 24h 55m | $1,550 | $390 (75% off) |
| Vancouver (YVR) → Bangkok (BKK) → Luang Prabang (LPQ) | Air Canada / Thai Airways | 23h 50m | $1,400 | $350 (75% off) |
| Chicago (ORD) → Tokyo (HND) → Vientiane (VTE) | ANA / Lao Airlines | 25h 20m | $1,550 | $390 (75% off) |
| Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) → Doha (DOH) → Vientiane (VTE) | Qatar Airways | 26h 10m | $1,600 | $405 (75% off) |
| Atlanta (ATL) → Seoul (ICN) → Luang Prabang (LPQ) | Delta Air Lines / Korean Air | 26h 00m | $1,550 | $390 (75% off) |
| Houston (IAH) → Tokyo (NRT) → Vientiane (VTE) | United Airlines / ANA | 25h 45m | $1,550 | $390 (75% off) |
| Montreal (YUL) → Bangkok (BKK) → Vientiane (VTE) | Air Canada / Thai Airways | 27h 10m | $1,500 | $380 (75% off) |
*Avg ATC Price: Superdeal fare published on our platform (40-80% savings compared to standard market rates). Learn more.
How the 5th-freedom loophole can cut your flight costs by thousands
Welcome to the overlooked world of fifth-freedom flights. These legal, rare, and often underpriced routes create some of the cheapest fares—yet most travelers have never heard of them…
Best stopovers
for US/Canada to Laos flights
Not all connections are created equal. When flying from the US/Canada to Laos, routing through major airport hubs can deliver lower total fares, better-equipped aircraft, and access to airline stopover programs.
Bangkok BKK
with Thai Airways / Bangkok Airways
- Average savings: 28% vs non-stop flights
- Flight segments: ~17h North America-Bangkok + ~1h Bangkok-Vientiane/Luang Prabang
- Typical connection: 2-4 hours (minimum 60 minutes)
- Stopover perks: Modern terminal with premium lounge access
- Visa requirements: Most North America passports visa-free for 30 days
- Airport rating: Suvarnabhumi rated 4-star by Skytrax
- Best for: Los Angeles, Vancouver, New York travelers seeking frequent schedules and easy Laos access
Seoul ICN
with Korean Air / Asiana Airlines
- Average savings: 25% vs non-stop flights
- Flight segments: North America-Seoul (~13h), then Seoul-Bangkok/Vientiane (~5-6h)
- Typical connection: 2-5 hours (minimum 45 minutes)
- Stopover perks: Free transit tours and rest areas
- Visa requirements: North America passports transit visa-free airside
- Airport rating: Incheon consistently 5-star, top global hub
- Best for: Seattle, San Francisco, Toronto travelers seeking efficient, reliable long-haul operations
Tokyo NRT
with Japan Airlines / ANA
- Average savings: 27% vs non-stop flights
- Flight segments: Split into ~11h North America-Tokyo and ~6-7h Tokyo-Bangkok
- Typical connection: 2-4 hours (minimum 60 minutes)
- Stopover perks: Free multi-city stopovers
- Visa requirements: North America passports transit visa-free if remaining airside
- Airport rating: Narita is a 4-star Skytrax airport
- Best for: Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas travelers seeking strong mileage and partner earning
Singapore SIN
with Singapore Airlines / Scoot
- Average savings: 22% vs non-stop flights
- Flight segments: Two-leg journey: ~18h North America-Singapore, ~3h Singapore-Vientiane
- Typical connection: 3-6 hours (minimum 60 minutes)
- Stopover perks: Free Singapore stopover package
- Visa requirements: North America passports visa-free short Singapore visits
- Airport rating: Changi frequently ranked world’s best airport
- Best for: San Francisco, Vancouver, New York travelers seeking world-class lounge and airport experience
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Best airlines and aircraft
for long-haul flights to Laos
Most travelers book US/Canada–Laos flights by price and schedule—but aircraft choice determines whether you arrive refreshed or wrecked. Cabin pressurization, humidity, seat configuration, and service standards vary dramatically on this route.
Below are carriers we recommend—with superior configurations on flights from the US and Canada to Laos.
Singapore Airlines
Airbus A350-900
Five-time Skytrax Airline of the Year winner. The A350’s lower cabin altitude and quiet cabin enhance long-haul comfort, especially on 1-stop flights via Changi—world’s best airport.
- Route: 1-stop via Singapore (SIN) New York/Toronto→Vientiane (18-20hrs)
- Economy: 32″ pitch, 18″ width, 3-3-3, USB power, 13.3″ IFE
- Business: 1-2-1, 78″ lie-flat, direct aisle access, 18.5″ IFE
- Standouts: Award-winning meals, premium IFE with 1,800+ options, free Wi-Fi (messaging), Changi lounge access
- Typical Pricing: Economy $1,800-$2,400; Business $4,500-$6,200;
ANA All Nippon Airways
Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
Skytrax 5-Star Airline. The 787’s advanced cabin pressure and humidity reduce jet lag, ideal for 1-stop flights via Tokyo Narita—Japan’s busiest international hub.
- Route: 1-stop via Tokyo (NRT) Los Angeles/Vancouver→Vientiane (19-21hrs)
- Economy: 32″ pitch, 17.8″ width, 3-3-3, USB power, 13.3″ IFE
- Business: 1-2-1, 78″ lie-flat, direct aisle access, 18″ IFE
- Standouts: Japanese-inspired cuisine, premium IFE with 1,000+ titles, free Wi-Fi (messaging), Narita lounge access
- Typical Pricing: Economy $1,700-$2,300; Business $4,200-$5,800;
EVA Air
Boeing 777-300ER
Skytrax 5-Star Airline. The 777-300ER’s spacious cabin and quiet engines deliver a premium experience on 1-stop flights via Taipei—Taiwan’s main international gateway.
- Route: 1-stop via Taipei (TPE) San Francisco/Toronto→Vientiane (18-20hrs)
- Economy: 32″ pitch, 18″ width, 3-3-3, USB power, 12″ IFE
- Business: 1-2-1, 78″ lie-flat, direct aisle access, 18″ IFE
- Standouts: Premium IFE with 200+ movies, free Wi-Fi (messaging), hot meals, Taipei lounge access
- Typical Pricing: Economy $1,500-$2,100; Business $3,800-$5,200;
China Eastern Airlines
Airbus A350-900
Skytrax 4-Star Airline. The A350’s modern cabin and efficient design make it a top choice for 1-stop flights via Shanghai—China’s busiest international hub.
- Route: 1-stop via Shanghai (PVG) Los Angeles/Vancouver→Vientiane (19-21hrs)
- Economy: 32″ pitch, 18″ width, 3-3-3, USB power, 12″ IFE
- Business: 1-2-1, 78″ lie-flat, direct aisle access, 18″ IFE
- Standouts: Chinese-inspired meals, premium IFE with 1,500+ titles, free Wi-Fi (messaging), Shanghai lounge access
- Typical Pricing: Economy $1,400-$2,000; Business $3,500-$4,800;
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Finding Superdeals that match your schedule
