Optimise your travels against high fuel surcharges

Rising cost of Hong Kong fuel surcharges

Hong Kong residents love traveling during the holidays. Yet, in the current climate, travelers and families alike may find it difficult to comfortably afford flight tickets.

Ongoing geopolitical uncertainties and volatile oil prices have pushed jet fuel prices upwards. This translates to massive disruptions for travel plans worldwide, as major Hong Kong carriers increase their fuel surcharges to offset costs.

Consequently, travel-savvy Hongkongers are tightening their travel budgets or even considering postponing their trips. The sudden spike in travel costs can feel deeply frustrating and overwhelming.

However, with some strategic financial planning, you can mitigate this situation. Learn how you can build healthy habits around these rising costs and still enjoy your holidays without breaking the bank.

The real cost of flying: Hong Kong fuel surcharges explained

The US-Iran conflict has caused severe upheaval in Brent crude oil prices. This has pushed jet fuel prices from US$65–$70 to US$90–$120 per barrel, causing a massive disruption to global travel and cargo. 

This directly impacts airlines, who must constantly adjust their balance sheets based on oil prices and flight distances. The fuel surcharge, commonly known as “YQ”, helps airlines cover these fluctuating costs.

When oil prices rise, fuel surcharges go up too. Because of the current economic situation, major Hong Kong airlines have inevitably passed this cost onto travelers.

With effect from 18 March 2026, major Hong Kong carriers Cathay Pacific and HK Express doubled these fees. On 26 March 2026, Cathay Pacific announced a further increase to its fuel surcharge, set to take effect on 1 April.

Updated surcharge breakdown:

• Short-haul: HK$389 (previously HK$142)
• Long-haul: HK$1,560 (previously HK$569)

Meanwhile, other carriers like Hong Kong Airlines also recently raised their fees, with long-haul routes rising rapidly to HK$739.

Fuel surcharges can significantly increase your travel costs. Say a family of three planned to visit Osaka in May. While the normal ticket price may be HK$8,500, the revised price after accounting for the fuel surcharge,  peak season base fares, and other surcharges could reach HK$14,500, a whopping 70% increase. 

This can trigger a severe case of buyer's remorse, especially if you initially opted for miles redemption, as fuel surcharges are charged on top of the miles redeemed. However, with some long-term planning, you can mitigate the financial damage.

Step 1: Plan as early as possible with a budget in mind

If you are planning for a higher-cost, long-haul trip to Europe or North America, the best way to soften the blow of rising airline fees is to adopt a considered approach and plan your expenses as early as you can.

When saving up for a trip, most of us instinctively leave our funds in a regular bank account. While cash feels secure, it is highly vulnerable to inflation, which quietly erodes your purchasing power over time.

Instead of letting your money lose value, consider setting aside your savings into short-term, low-risk options. Depending on how far away your trip is, you can grow your travel bucket with 3- or 6-month Fixed-Rate Savings plans at around 1.15% per annum for HKD accounts, or 3.19% per annum for USD accounts. For those seeking a more flexible approach to cash management, our CashUp portfolios with a yield of up to 3.8% p.a. represent an excellent alternative. This provides a distinct advantage over leaving cash in a standard bank account while retaining the flexibility you need.  

These cash management options provide a sensible shield against inflation while maintaining the absolute liquidity you need for an upcoming vacation. By planning ahead and safely earning a competitive yield, you organically build a larger buffer to offset those pesky surcharges.

Step 2: Adopt a goal-based approach for future expenses

With the macroeconomic landscape constantly shifting, it is natural to feel anxious about how global events might impact your personal travel plans, or broader financial goals. However, history shows that careful financial planning helps you comfortably weather these sudden uncertainties.

Instead of treating your travel budget as a last-minute, impulsive expense, integrate it into a broader goal-based financial framework. By breaking down your financial goals into different time buckets, you can appropriately allocate your funds based on exactly when you need them.

For instance, a family trip happening in the next year should consider the option of safe, short-term cash management solutions. Conversely, if you are planning a milestone anniversary trip five years down the line, a globally diversified portfolio may give your money the necessary runway to even outpace inflation.

This disciplined approach takes the emotion out of budgeting and provides lasting peace of mind. You can rest easy knowing your travel funds are systematically secured, regardless of temporary market shocks or sudden airline fees.

Read more: Goal-based investing and why it matters

Step 3: Take advantage of the Endowus x Citi Prestige collaboration

While saving and planning for future travel is a responsible financial habit, it is also important to optimise your everyday spending to complement your overall travel experience.

The exclusive Endowus × Citi Prestige Collaboration Promotion 2026 lets you enjoy lifestyle privileges while your long-term wealth plan works hard for you. With this card, you can discover valuable travel hacks, from unlimited access to 1,500 premium airport lounges to complimentary travel insurance and a dedicated concierge.

What’s more, you can enjoy a complimentary fourth night at hotels worldwide to further offset your travel expenses.

Simply sign up with Endowus, invest at least HK$200,000, and maintain it for 90 days to be eligible for the Citi Prestige Card and a HK$4,000 cash reward. Existing clients can also unlock this reward by making a net new investment of HK$200,000.​ 

Offer ends at 11:59pm on 15 April 2026. Terms & Conditions apply. 

Don’t let surprise fuel surcharges thwart your travel game. Plan early, build healthy financial habits, and upgrade your travel experience while staying financially assured. 

Are you ready to build a resilient financial plan that supports your travel dreams? Schedule a 1-on-1 free consultation with our SFC-licensed client advisors today.

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