Are you planning a travel or backpacking trip to Australia? It’s always the perfect time to explore this dream destination filled with sunshine, stunning landscapes, and friendly people. Before you hop on a plane, here are some comprehensive tips for backpacking across Australia.
Choosing Your Route: East Coast or West Coast?
There are many routes to choose. To the west, central, north, east and so on. Where to go depends on your travel style. I brought two routes which are frequent destinations, and here are some traits of each.
- East Coast: Ideal for those who enjoy meeting new people and exploring city life. Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane offer vibrant urban experiences with plenty of activities, nightlife, and cultural attractions.
- West Coast: Perfect for adventurers who love wild, untouched nature. The west coast offers rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and unique natural attractions like the Ningaloo Reef and the Kimberley region.
Transportation Options
If you have decided which route to travel, you might need some transport. Here are common methods of traveling.
- Own Car: It’s a flexible option for exploring remote areas at your own pace. If you’re buying a second-hand car, ensure it has a valid roadworthy certificate and registration.
- Rental Car: Great for short-term travel, giving you the freedom to explore various destinations.
- Greyhound Bus: This is frequently used method for solo travelers. Greyhound offer an unlimited bus ticket for 90 days, you can go anywhere at anytime (but check out if they have schedule for your destination) Plus you don’t need to drive long distances!
- Planes: Domestic flights by airlines like Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Rex can save time, especially for zigzag itineraries. Note their cancellation policies are a bit sketchy, be careful when adjusting your schedule.
- Airline Tips-Cancellation Policies:
Be cautious with “free cancellation” offers, as they might only provide a voucher instead of a cash refund. For example, airline does ‘free cancellation’ for you, but they don’t refund it as a cash, they provide it as a point that expires within a year. Moreover, connecting to service center takes you at least an hour or so. Always double-check the terms before booking.
Accommodation
Now where would you like to sleep in? Some people sleep on their car, some on fancy airbnb. For backpackers budget friendly places can’t be missed. It would be wise to consider in lengthwise
- Short-Term: Hostels are a reliable and safe choice. Here’s the tip! Booking through their website often provides member discounts. One of my go to hostels were YHA. Hostels like YHA are found in most major cities and tourist spots.
- Long-Term: Platforms like Flatmates and Gumtree are useful for finding long-term accommodation. Keep that in mind houses have rules for example like bond for two weeks and minimum stay of 3 months. But also there could be some houses with no bonds and travel friendly, some window surfings are needed. Always deal with highly rated users to avoid scams. Backpacker Facebook groups can also be good resources.
Food and Groceries
Next let’s fill up some mouth tanks! Australia has so many good foods, dining out can be a good option for foodies. Instead if you’re planning on budget eating, here’s some tip.
- Supermarket Deals: Look out for half-price sales at supermarkets. Australian supermarkets regularly offer significant discounts on various products, which can help you save money on food.
- Rain Checks: If a sale item is out of stock, you can ask for a rain check, allowing you to purchase it at the sale price later, even the sales are over.
- Be aware of Coke Prices: Note that a 500ml bottle of Coke can cost around $4 in supermarkets and $5 in fast food restaurants. While 1mL of Coke is $2.50 or so. Getting a water bottle can save you some money.
Job Hunting
Is your wallet getting thinner?Finding a right job in Australia is good way to enhance your travel. I’ll provide detailed description on following article, for now, here’s a general two way you would consider.
- Rural Farm Jobs: Good paying compared to city jobs. Also it is helpful for getting a 2nd Visa if you’re planning on staying more than one year. Use social media, especially Facebook groups, to find job opportunities and network with other travelers and locals.
- City jobs: Look for jobs on Gumtree or Seek. Here’s the tip. Obtaining a RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) certification can significantly help in finding jobs in bars, restaurants, and clubs.
Packing Essentials
Although Australia is well-equipped place, it can’t be exactly the same as where you were. Preparing these things can make your travel easier
- Electronics: Bring spare chargers and adapters. Electronics are expensive in Australia, so it’s better to come prepared.
- Power Converters: Australia uses 220-240V, so make sure you have the appropriate power converter for your devices.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable backpacking adventure in Australia! Safe travels!