Australia is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world, known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife. However, it’s also often considered an expensive place to visit. With a little planning and insider knowledge, you can explore Australia without breaking the bank. Whether you’re backpacking or just looking for affordable ways to travel, there are plenty of tips and tricks that can help you make the most of your trip while keeping costs low.
Here’s how to travel Australia on a budget:
1. Plan and Book in Advance
One of the most effective ways to save money while traveling in Australia is to plan ahead and book your accommodations, transportation, and activities in advance. By booking early, you can often take advantage of discounted rates or special offers that might not be available closer to your travel date.
- Flights: Book your flights early to secure the best deals. Keep an eye on budget airlines like Jetstar and Tigerair, which often offer discounted fares. You can also use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track prices and get the best deals.
- Accommodation: If you’re traveling on a budget, consider staying in hostels, motels, or campgrounds rather than luxury hotels. Websites like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hostelworld offer budget-friendly options, and often, you can book a whole apartment for the price of a hotel room.
- Car Rentals and Campervans: If you’re planning to explore the country’s vast landscapes, renting a car or campervan can be a cost-effective way to travel. Jucy Rentals and Mighty Campers often offer budget-friendly options for long-term rentals.
2. Take Advantage of Public Transport
Australia’s cities and regions are well-connected by public transport, and using buses, trains, and ferries is an affordable way to get around. Public transport in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane is efficient and easy to navigate.
- Opal Card (Sydney): Sydney’s public transport system offers a convenient Opal card, which gives you discounted fares on trains, buses, ferries, and light rail. You can also cap your spending for the day, so it’s ideal if you’re traveling around the city for a full day.
- Myki Card (Melbourne): Melbourne uses the Myki card, which is similar to the Opal card in Sydney. You can load it up and use it for unlimited travel across the city’s buses, trains, and trams.
- Long-Distance Travel: For traveling between cities or to rural areas, consider using Greyhound or Premier Motor Service buses, which offer long-distance routes at affordable prices. These buses are comfortable, and you can often find deals for tickets if you book in advance.
3. Travel by Train and Bus for Longer Journeys
While flights in Australia can sometimes be cheap, traveling by train or bus can offer great savings, especially if you’re flexible with your schedule. Long-distance trains like The Ghan or Indian Pacific can be expensive, but you can find budget-friendly fares if you book in advance, travel on off-peak days, or opt for standing tickets. You can also explore some of the country’s scenic routes like the Overland train or use regional train services for affordable travel between smaller towns.
- Greyhound Bus Passes: Greyhound offers passes that allow unlimited travel for a certain period, which is a great option for budget travelers who want to explore multiple destinations.
- VLine and NSW TrainLink: These regional train services offer affordable travel within Victoria and New South Wales, respectively, and can be a great way to visit regional towns and cities without spending too much.
4. Stay in Hostels or Campsites
Accommodation is one of the largest expenses when traveling, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options in Australia. Staying in hostels, motels, or even campsites can drastically cut your costs.
- Hostels: Australia has an abundance of affordable hostels, especially in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Cairns. Hostels are a great place to meet fellow travelers and save money on food by cooking in the communal kitchens. YHA (Youth Hostel Association) is a network of budget-friendly hostels across the country, and you can often find discounts and deals if you book directly with them.
- Camping: If you’re traveling through rural Australia or national parks, camping is a great and affordable option. Many national parks have basic campsites, and you can often camp for a small fee or even for free in some areas. Websites like CamperMate and WikiCamps are helpful for finding campsites across the country.
- Airbnb: Another budget accommodation option is Airbnb, where you can book a room or apartment at a fraction of the price of a hotel. It’s also a great way to experience the local culture by staying in residential neighborhoods.
5. Cook Your Own Meals
Dining out in Australia can quickly add up, especially in major cities. To save money on food, take advantage of supermarkets and cook your own meals. Many hostels offer fully equipped kitchens where you can prepare your meals, and you’ll find major supermarket chains like Woolworths and Coles that offer affordable groceries.
- Picnic Meals: If you’re traveling on the go or exploring outdoor areas, consider packing picnic meals. Australia’s coastal regions, parks, and national reserves offer beautiful picnic spots where you can enjoy a meal while soaking in the scenery.
- Food Markets: In many cities, you’ll find affordable local markets where you can buy fresh produce and snacks. Places like Sydney’s Paddy’s Market, Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market, and Brisbane’s Eat Street Northshore offer budget-friendly options for fresh food.
- Eat Local: Avoid touristy areas when it comes to dining, as prices tend to be inflated. Instead, head to local cafes or food courts for more affordable options.
6. Look for Free and Cheap Attractions
Australia has plenty of free or low-cost activities that allow you to explore the country’s culture, history, and natural beauty without spending a fortune. Some of the best experiences can be enjoyed for little to no money.
- Beaches and Parks: Australia is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and many of them are free to access. You can relax at Bondi Beach in Sydney, explore the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, or snorkel at the Whitsundays for free. National parks also offer scenic hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and photography opportunities at no cost.
- Free Museums and Galleries: Many of Australia’s museums and galleries offer free entry. For example, The National Gallery of Australia in Canberra and the Australian Museum in Sydney are free to visit, and you can often find free events, exhibitions, and festivals happening throughout the year.
- Walking Tours: In major cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, you’ll find free walking tours that give you an insider’s view of the city. While these tours are free, it’s common to tip your guide at the end if you enjoyed the experience.
7. Use Discount Cards and Passes
If you plan on visiting multiple attractions in a city, consider purchasing discount passes that offer entry to various sights at a lower price.
- Sydney Passes: The Sydney Pass or iVenture Card offers discounted entry to popular attractions like the Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo, and the Royal Botanic Garden. Similar passes are available in Melbourne, Brisbane, and other major cities.
- Tourist Discount Cards: Many cities and regions offer special cards for tourists, which provide discounts on public transport, attractions, and even dining. It’s worth looking into these passes before you arrive in a city.
8. Work While You Travel
One of the best ways to save money while traveling in Australia is to pick up some temporary work. Australia has a strong “working holiday” culture, and as a backpacker or traveler, you can find casual jobs that help you fund your journey.
- Fruit Picking: Many rural areas in Australia rely on seasonal workers for fruit picking, particularly in places like Queensland and Tasmania. This work often includes accommodation and meals, making it a great way to travel cheaply while earning money.
- Hospitality and Retail Jobs: Cities and tourist towns often have plenty of part-time opportunities in hospitality, retail, or tourism. Websites like Seek and Gumtree are great for finding short-term employment.
Conclusion
Traveling around Australia on a budget is entirely possible with the right approach. By planning ahead, using public transport, opting for budget accommodations, cooking your own meals, and taking advantage of free or low-cost attractions, you can make the most of your time in this beautiful country without blowing your savings. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be able to explore Australia’s iconic landmarks, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes while staying within your budget.
