This article is all about the top travel tips I learned while exploring Australia. A dream destination for many, a trip to Oz offers stunning landscapes, diverse and exotic wildlife, and some of the most fantastic cities in the world.
Hannah and I spent three months house sitting in Australia, which gave us a unique opportunity to experience local life. After months of traveling through Asia, arriving in Adelaide felt like a return to familiarity – similar food, lively pubs, and of course, English as the main language.
We loved exploring beyond the major cities, and discovering small-town charm in unexpected places. So, if you’re planning a trip to Australia, these insider travel tips will help you make the most of your adventure, whether you’re a seasoned visitor, budget traveler, digital nomad, or it’s your first time Down Under.
Plan Your Trip Around Australia’s Seasons
Firstly, it’s important to note that Australia’s seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer (December to February) is perfect for beach destinations like the Gold Coast, while winter (June to August) is better for exploring the Outback or hitting the ski slopes in Victoria.
The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer great weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for budget travelers. Depending on which area you plan to visit, be aware that summers can be scorchingly hot, and winters freezingly cold, so always thoroughly research your desired destinations before you book.
Budget Travel in Australia: How to Save Money
Australia has a reputation for being expensive, and depending on which city you are heading to you may also find this to be the case. Smart travelers can still explore on a budget, and on the whole, I didn’t find Australia to be any more expensive than most US and UK cities. Here are some budget ideas to try;
Top Australia Budget Tips
- House Sitting: Save on accommodation by house sitting, which we did for three months – check out my guide to the top Australia house sits right now.
- Happy Hours: Many bars and pubs offer discounted drinks and food during daily happy hours.
- Cook for Yourself: Eating out is expensive, so shop at supermarkets and cook in your accommodation whenever possible.
- Use Public Transport: Buses, trains, and trams are cheaper than taxis or rental cars – some cities even have free tram zones.
- Find Free Attractions: National parks, museums with free entry, coastal walks, and beaches provide amazing experiences without spending anything.
- Travel in the Off-Season: Flights and accommodation are much cheaper outside peak holiday periods like summer and school breaks.
- Get a Fuel Discount: Supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths offer fuel discounts when you shop – great if you’re renting a car or campervan.
- Drink Tap Water: Australia’s tap water is safe to drink, so refill a bottle instead of buying expensive bottled water.
- Look for Cheap Eats: Food courts, RSL clubs, and night markets offer great meals at budget-friendly prices.
- Book Tours and Activities Online: Websites like Klook and Groupon often have discounts on tours, theme parks, and activities.
Exploring Sydney: Top Travel Tips
Sydney is a must-visit city with its iconic Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and beautiful beaches. Public transport is efficient, but walking is the best way to explore areas like The Rocks and Darling Harbour.
Bondi Beach is famous, but we loved the coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee, where you’ll find fewer crowds and equally stunning views, clear waters, and golden sands.
Dining out in Sydney can be pricey, but Chinatown and Newtown have fantastic, affordable eats. Try the night markets for street food, or visit Marrickville for some of the best Vietnamese food outside of Vietnam. For more ideas, check out my top 10 free or cheap attractions in Sydney.
Adelaide Travel Tips: Laid-Back Vibes and World-Class Wine
Adelaide is often overlooked in favor of bigger cities like Sydney and Melbourne, but it has a lot to offer – especially for budget travelers. The city is packed with free attractions, from the stunning Botanic Garden to the coastal walks at Glenelg.
Public transport is also affordable and efficient. If you’re visiting in March, the Adelaide Fringe Festival is a must – but book early, as accommodation prices can spike. With its laid-back atmosphere, great food markets, and easy access to the famous Barossa Valley wine region, Adelaide is definitely worth a visit.
We spent time house sitting in Adelaide, which made exploring the city much more affordable. If you’re considering house sitting, check out my definitive guide to house sitting in Adelaide to find out why it’s a great way to save money while experiencing local life in Australia.
Melbourne Travel Tips: Embrace the Coffee Culture
Melbourne is known for its artsy vibe, laneway culture, and world-class coffee. The free City Circle tram is a great way to travel, and the best way to experience the city. We enjoyed visiting Fitzroy and Collingwood, where the street art and independent shops create a cool, laid-back atmosphere.
If you’re looking for cheap eats, head to Queen Victoria Market for delicious street food. The cafe scene is legendary, so don’t leave without trying a coffee from Little League or a cold beer at The Drunken Poet. If you’re a sports fan, catching an Aussie Rules Football (AFL) game at the MCG is a must.
For a dose of nature without leaving the city, visit the Royal Botanic Gardens or relax along the Yarra River. Fed Square is a cultural hub worth exploring, with free galleries and events happening year-round. If you’re after stunning views, head to St Kilda, walk the pier, spot the penguins, and soak in the sights.
Gold Coast Travel Tips: More Than Just Beaches
The Gold Coast is famous for its stunning beaches, but there’s so much more to explore. We enjoyed the hinterland areas like Springbrook and Tamborine Mountain, where you can escape the crowds and hike to waterfalls.
Public transport is decent, but I’d recommend looking into renting a car. This will give you the freedom to explore beyond Surfers Paradise. Use comparison sites like Booking.com to find affordable care hire rates, even if it’s just for a day or two of exploring.
Dining on the Gold Coast can be expensive, but the night markets in Miami and Broadbeach offer great local food at reasonable prices. The craft beer scene is also booming, with plenty of breweries to check out along the coastline. The Loose Moose is a very cool bar worth a visit.
Funny Travel Tips for Australia
Traveling in Australia is an adventure filled with incredible landscapes, unique wildlife, and a few quirks that might catch you off guard. To help you navigate the Land Down Under, here are some funny yet practical travel tips to keep you prepared (and entertained).
- Don’t be surprised if an Aussie calls you “mate” after two minutes of conversation. It’s a term of endearment, not an obligation.
- Never underestimate the power of the Australian sun – always wear sunscreen unless you want to look like a lobster.
- Magpies are cute until they swoop at your head in spring. Locals wear helmets with zip ties to fend them off!
- If you see an emu and a kangaroo on the road sign, it’s not a cute decoration – it’s a warning. These animals have zero road etiquette and will happily leap into traffic, so stay alert!
- You can experience four seasons in a day, especially in Melbourne. Pack for sun, rain, wind, and a freak cold snap – because Australia likes to keep you guessing.
- If you’re invited to a backyard barbie, never turn up empty-handed. Bring beer, some snags (sausages), and whatever you do, don’t touch another person’s tongs unless you want to start a diplomatic incident.
- Much like in the UK, the C swear word is used much more openly, frequently, and freely than in many other countries, especially the US. It can (and will!) be used in everyday conversation as friendly banter, but also in its traditional offensive form – you’ve been warned!
House Sitting in Australia: A Budget Traveler’s Best Friend
If you want to cut accommodation costs, house sitting is the way to go. We had amazing experiences staying in homes across Australia, caring for pets and we didn’t spend a penny on accommodation during our 3-month stay. From coastal retreats to city apartments, house sitting allows you to live like a local.
Learn more about the abundance of house sitting opportunities in Australia and more about our experience in this helpful guide.
Is Australia Safe for Travelers?
Australia is generally a very safe country, but travelers should be aware of potential risks. The main concerns are natural hazards – strong ocean currents, extreme heat, and wildlife encounters. Always swim between the flags at patrolled beaches, carry water when hiking, and be mindful of venomous creatures.
Cities like Sydney and Melbourne have low crime rates, but it’s still wise to take basic precautions, especially at night. Overall, Australia is one of the safest destinations for travelers.
Dangerous Animals: What You Really Need to Worry About
Australia’s wildlife has a reputation for being deadly, but in reality, encounters with dangerous animals are rare. Snakes and spiders exist, but bites are extremely uncommon. The biggest risks actually come from jellyfish in northern waters and saltwater crocodiles in Queensland’s rivers.
That said, our scariest experience with an Aussie animal was a house cat! Read about Bella, The Very Angry Cat who we house-sat in Adelaide.
Conclusion
Australia is an incredible place, explore it, and try and see as much of the country as you can! Embrace the wildlife, the weather, and BBQ etiquette, and you’ll fit right in. It’s a country Hannah and I would happily return to, and we are already looking forward to our next visit to the Land Down Under.
FAQs and Final Australia Travel Tips
What are the best places to visit in Australia?
Sydney, Melbourne, and the Great Barrier Reef are the best places to visit in Australia but don’t miss Tasmania, the Outback, and the lesser-known coastal towns.
Is Australia expensive for travelers?
Australia can be expensive for travelers, but house sitting, using public transport, and eating at local markets can help you travel on a budget.
What’s the best time of year to visit Australia?
Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) offer great weather and fewer crowds, making them the best times to visit Australia.
What’s the best way to travel around Australia?
The best way to travel around Australia is by using domestic flights. They are certainly the fastest in such a vast country, but buses and trains are good for budget travelers. Renting a campervan is also a great option for explorers.
Do I need a visa to visit Australia?
Yes, most travelers need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or visitor visa to travel to Australia. Always check the requirements with your own government’s official website before booking a trip.
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