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Faraway Worlds
If you’re planning on travelling to Australia, you’re probably wondering how much you need to budget for your trip. While your travel costs will depend on your travel style, generally speaking Australia is best for travellers with some spending money.
Accommodation costs are generally on the high side and food and drinks are relatively expensive. Many of Australia’s best attractions are very affordable or even free and, while some activities could set you back a fair amount, there’s plenty to do at lower price points too.
A reasonable budget for two for a week in Australia is around A$2,589 .
The above cost is based on staying in good, mid-range accommodation and having a few meals out per week, while preparing some yourself . It makes allowances for a couple of sightseeing activities, but doesn’t take into account expensive activities like adventure sports or private tours.
Generally speaking, the longer you travel, the cheaper it costs per day, while fly-in, fly-out trips can be more expensive.
You can expect to spend between A$160-A$250 a night, per couple, on accommodation in Australia. This will get you a private room with your own bathroom in a 3-4-star hotel or apartment rental.
Hostels are, of course, cheaper, but a private room with a shared bathroom will still cost around A$90 per night. A bed in a dorm room also averages around A$30 per night, per person, although there are definitely cheaper options out there.
Budget to spend around A$750 for two for a week in Australia. This assumes you’re cooking some of the time and drinking some alcohol.
If you enjoy eating out, you can expect to pay around A$93 for a nice dinner for two, including an alcoholic drink. A meal at a pub is likely to be around A$57 for two, with cheaper meals available (especially for lunch) for around A$18 each.
Assuming that you’ll be eating out some of the time, budget at least A$85 a week for groceries. If you enjoy a few drinks, you’ll need to increase this amount – beer costs around A$6 for a 500ml bottle and good bottle of wine is around A$17 , from a shop, although there are cheaper options available. Milk typically costs around A$2 for a two-litre bottle and you can expect to pay around A$5 for a cappuccino from a local café.
Getting around Australia is easiest with a car. Transport costs fluctuate depending how much you travel, but budgeting around A$330 for two per week is a good starting point. This should allow you to hire a cheaper rental car. If you’re planning on doing any tours or using hop-on hop-off buses, you’ll need to up your budget a bit.
While you need a car to explore the country, the major cities have very good public transport networks. If you'll be in a city for more than a day or two, it's worth picking up the local public transport card to help make travelling around more affordble.
A lot of the best things to do in Australia are free. However, there definitely are some attractions that cost money – entry fees to a museum or an art gallery are usually around A$20 - A$40 per person. If you want to do organised day trips or join smaller tour groups to learn more about some of the sites, budget around A$160 per activity per person.
Australia is a beautiful destination to visit and although it’s not cheap, it’s definitely possible to travel there for less. Cooking your own meals, carefully selecting accommodation or limiting meals out will definitely help you to reduce your travel costs. Slow travel is another great way to help your budget to stretch further, while exploring a place in more depth.
Travelling through Australia is definitely possible on a budget – just pick your priorities and compromise on the rest or consider travelling in the off-season and avoiding school holidays to cut down on costs. And, if you’re on the luxury end of the scale or wanting to treat yourself, the sky’s the limit.
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Last Updated 16 December 2021
Thinking of travelling to Australia ? Great choice! You are going to discover an amazing country and live an unusual experience. But, how much should you estimate your budget? Indeed, you are perfectly right to ask it. And it’s because it’s on everyone’s lips that we’re offering you this article. After reading it, you will be able to establish the costs to be considered according to the type of trip you are planning.
Table of Contents
Plane ticket.
Airfare will undoubtedly be one of the biggest expenses before you leave. Australia is at the other end of the world, so going there will have a significant cost!
Tickets prices change constantly during the year. Thus, there are 3 main periods:
Since Covid-19 pandemic, prices have risen quite a bit. For this beginning of year 2023, count around 1400 EUR (1200 GPD) for a return ticket with a stopover.
To travel outside the European Union, you need a passport . To obtain or renew it, it is necessary to make a request to your town hall with supporting documents. The cost of a passport (1st request or renewal) is £75.50 if you apply for it online in the UK. The application is more expensive if you apply by paper form ( £85 ).
If you already have one, make sure it is valid for at least as long as the duration of your stay.
If your driver’s licence is not in English then you will need to obtain an international licence. The process is free in general but quite lengthy so be sure to make the request well in advance.
To enter Australia, you will need a visa. Here is a list of your visa options for a trip to Australia :
Make sure you apply for a visa from the official government website
It is important to take out travel insurance in case your credit card or insurance company does not cover costs abroad. Without insurance you risk exposing yourself to the true cost of treatment outside the European zone.
Depending on the length of your stay and your trip (tourist, WHV) you will need to get the proper cover for your stay in Australia.
These insurances will cover you in the event of an accident or infectious disease. Your hospital costs, repatriation costs, accidents during the practice of certain sports (to be checked with the company), or your civil liability will be covered.
There are a lot of offers on the market. Among those, World Nomads policies provide different levels of coverage for all key areas while you are travelling.
Depending on your preferences, housing can be one of the most affordable or most expensive expenses. Here are your options:
Hello TimTam, canned food, pasta and wraps! Anything that can be kept for a long time and in all kinds of heat (well, almost). Because on a road trip, every day is a new opportunity, a new destination, so we might as well take care of what we buy:
How to get around and how much does it cost? Australia is a much larger continent than Europe. This means that you need to plan ahead and find the most suitable means of transport. So, here are some ideas to travel through this fabulous country:
This is an almost free way of getting around, where you contribute to the fuel costs and meet many backpackers! Recommended for those thirsty for adventure. To do this, a quick look at the Facebook groups in Australia is welcome
The network is extensive and efficient but often at the same price as the plane and the train. The two main companies are Greyhound and Premier Motor Service. For those who would mainly choose this means of transport, a Greyhound package is worth considering. In addition, here is an order of prices according to the destinations:
In general, the journey time is several hours longer and the fare is the same as that of a bus or plane. That said, it is still much more comfortable for long journeys. And there are some iconic and famous train journeys in Australia. For example, The Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth), The Ghan (Adelaide to Darwin) or The Overland (from Melbourne to Adelaide).
One of the best adventures you can have is a motorbike trip, but it does have a few drawbacks (exposure to the weather, minimal luggage). This is why a car remains a great option! Whether you have a 4WD, a campervan or a classic car, the road is waiting for you!
Renting a vehicle is probably the most popular way to travel in Australia. Car hire generally costs around $30 per day. For a campervan rental, you can expect to pay around $1000 for 10 days. Rates vary depending on the season and the model / equipment of the vehicle etc.
Cheap campervan hire
Find the best deals on Motorhome Republic to rent a cheap van.
Fast and affordable, it allows you to get from one end of the country to the other in a short time. So, we invite you to take a look at airline platforms such as Skycanner, to find the best flight. To get an idea, count approximately: (return ticket)
Sydney – Melbourne: $100 Melbourne – Cairns: $300 Sydney – Perth: $400 Melbourne – Alice Spring: $500 Perth – Darwin: $400
Many activities are free in Australia. Go to the beach, surf, visit cultural centres, explore the streets, markets of cities, or even climb a mountain and discover a waterfall. There are many ways to explore the country and do activities for free or a small fee.
You want to go on a road trip, and if you have the ability, arrive with the maximum of funds in the Australia! The most important thing about a road trip is your vehicle . So how much does it cost? What should you plan for? First of all, if you want to travel to isolated places, prefer a 4WD rather than a campervan. Il will allow you to access every corner of Australia. The budget for a vehicle will depend on many things, such as the period of purchase, the vehicle you pick, the city where you purchase, its general state etc. Another option is to rent a vehicle for your road trip, it will give you the option to pick it up somewhere and drop it off in another city. It is also a great option if you are only looking for a short road trip in Australia (East coast or West coast for example).
Read also : Road Trip in Australia – Budget
How about sailing on the Whitsunday Islands? Or skydiving? Of course, depending on what you want and where you are, the prices will differ. Nevertheless, here are some options of tours in Australia and their costs:
Here is an estimate for a WHV when traveling on the roads. Expenses will be as follow:
So count approximately $20 000 per year (can be higher or lower depending on your life style, activities etc).
For the lucky ones who are travelling in Australia for 3 weeks just to enjoy the country, here is an idea of the budget to plan:
See you soon on the roads!
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Want to know how much to budget for Australia? Here’s a full breakdown of the cost of backpacking Australia – inc hostels, tours and travel
Out of all the emails I receive in regards to budgeting for travel plans backpacking Australia is without a doubt the place people are most worried about or needing information on. With their ever strengthening economy it’s not the cheap backpacker country it once was and it’ll take up a large chunk of your budget.
With most places I usually say around £1,000 per month ( my monthly budget for Thailand was even less!) will leave you with plenty of cash to splash…backpacking Australia though (and I hate to be the person to break this to you!) will be nearly double that.
So here’s a break down of the main spends for backpacking Australia – accommodation, food, booze, activities and transport – so hopefully you can prepare for an amazing adventure down under…
There have been some big changes in prices and options for 2023, with things changing quite a lot, but I’ll try and keep this post as updated as possible!
(Last updated – Jan 2023, all $ prices are $AUD)
Accommodation in australia.
As one of the biggest destinations on the planet backpacking Australia comes with a wide variety of accommodation – whether you’re looking for hostels, hotels, boutique spas or even couch surfing there’s something for everyones taste.
I’m guessing most of you will be hitting up hostels (as they’re the most budget option) so I’ll focus on that and these are some of the stats from hostels I’ve stayed at in Australia:
Cheapest Bed – Beaches, Airlie Beach $20 (£12.50)
Most Expensive Bed – Wakeup, Sydney $40 (£25) (well worth it though!)
Favourite Hostel – Aquarius Backpackers, Byron Bay – $35 (£20)
Average nights accommodation (shared dorm) – $40 (£22)
Average nights accommodation (double/twin) – $120 (£66)
Average campsite (per tent) – $30 (£16)
Some of my top Australia hostels include;
$1,200 (£667).
Australia is pretty expensive when it come to eating out – so if you’re on a budget you’ll want to mix it up with a good bit of home cooking.
Saying that though many hostels offer some great backpacker feeds ( like Sydneys “Wakeup” ) for around $5 and there’s plenty of backpacker bars which do the same, so you can grab a budget feed on the go too.
If you’re going out to party again the backpacker bars are the way forward and many of them ( like The Woolshed in Cairns ) offer a whole host of giveaways and competitions, from surfboards to dive courses, so you make your night out well worth the money!
Favourite dish – Beach BBQ’s!
Cheapest meal – 5 min noodles! – $0.50 (£0.30p!) (add some veggies to pimp it out a bit and give it some nutrition!)
Average backpacker meal – around $10 (£5.50)
Average meal (based on cooking veggie pasta) – $8 (£4.5)
Average cost of beer (stubbie of Tooheys) – $5 (£3)
Average cost of a box of goon (Golden Oaks, 4 litres) – $15 (£9)
Average cost of beer (schooner of Stone and Wood, bar) – $8 (£5)
Average cost takeaway coffee – $5 (£3.12)
Average cost fruit smoothie – $8 (£5)
Favourite place to eat – hmmmm…this is a tough one as I try to cook myself whenever possible in Australia to save my budget!
$540 (£300).
Australia has a pretty solid travel network that’s easy to use, book and get to pretty much everywhere – from low cost airlines and campervan rentals through to backpacker hop on hop off bus passes.
For the purpose of this break down I’m going to concentrate on the East Coast route – which is the most common route for backpacking Australia and has the most option in terms of bus transport.
Unfortunately as beautiful as the West Coast is you’re limited to Campervan hire and tours on that side of the country.
Here’s a couple of the main journeys you’ll want to make and how much they’ll set you back.
Internal flight (single) – Cairns to Sydney – $150 (£95)
Internal flight (single) – Sydney to Melbourne – $50 (£31)
Internal flight (single) – Sydney to Perth – $150 (£80)
Internal flight (single) – Sydney to Brisbane – $50 (£25)
Internal flight (single) – Sydney to Ballina (Byron Bay) = $50 (£25)
Greyhound East Coast Pass – 30 day option – $399 (£222)
Greyhound WHIMit Pass (only restricted by time frame not route) – $349 (15 days), $439 (30 days) up to $639 for 90 days.
Australia Campervan hire – from $60 per day (£33 per day) but peak season expect around $110 per day (£62)
If you’re only backpacking Australia for a month I’d say Sydney – Cairns will be your route and the Greyhound Bus East Coast Pass would be the most cost effective way to achieve this.
You’d potentially add in a single flight from Cairns to Sydney for an onward flight or a brief stop in Melbourne and fly to Sydney to save time. If you’re not sure on how to travel the East Coast check out this blog post.
$549 (£305).
(Greyhound Pass + Sydney to Cairns Flight)
One of the biggest draws of backpacking Australia is the amount of epic activities on offer!
The East Coast is rammed from top to bottom with loads to do – from day trips to learning new skills you can pretty much do anything from skydive to kayak!
In fact listing them all would take agggggges, so here are some of my favourite and most popular things to do up the coast…
PADI Open Water – 3 days, Cairns – $815 (£452)
Whitsundays Tours (2 day, 2 night) – $525 (£290)
Sydney Bridge Climb – $248 (£165)
Blue Mountains Day Trip – $155 (£86)
Sydney Aquarium and Wildlife Park Combo Pass – $55 (£34)
Great Ocean Road Trip – $130 (£72)
Surf lesson – Byron Bay – $80 (£44)
Australia Zoo – $100 (£62.50) inc return bus from Brisbane
Fraser Island 4×4 Tag Along (3 day, 2 night camping option) – $499 (£277)
Fraser Island Day Trip – $180 (£100)
Kayaking tour – $89 (£50)
Magnetic Island Package (inc return ferry, 2 nights accom & welcome drink) – $140 (£77)
Great Barrier Reef Day Trip (snorkelling) – $195 (£108)
Great Barrier Reef Day Trip ( scuba dive taster ) – $240 (£133)
Skydive (15,000 feet) – $359 (£199)
Cape Tribulation day trip – $189 (£105)
If I had to pull out what the average backpacking Australia trip would include over a month I’d say you’d be hoping to include:
$1,847 (£1,082).
So based on my personal experience and what I assume the average backpacker would like to achieve on the East Coast trail I’d say you’ll be paying for the following;
Daily budget = $137 (£76) per day, australia budget.
This budget for backpacking Australia includes accommodation, meals, transport and the main activities as listed above.
I’d like to point out though that this is merely a base point for your budgeting though and it’s always best to over compensate when it comes to money as it’s very much a personal thing – and of course you’re drinking will add some dollar on top.
This 4 weeks would allow you to pretty much cover the whole East Coast Australia backpacker trail and you’d be packing in all the main sites and things to do – including spots like Byron Bay , Fraser Island, Whitsundays, and Cairns.
Some people will easily spend less than this – especially if you’re on a years working holiday visa and pacing yourself up the coast, or simply have longer to spend on your trip.
And also keep in mind the longer you’re travelling for the more spread out your bigger costs will be (like tours and bus passes) so your daily spend will obviously be lower.
But if you’re pushed for time in Australia and want to do pretty much all the bucket list ticks it’s all parcelled into the above summary and 4 weeks is the ideal amount of time to spend on that route.
You can also customise your own East Coast package to suit your personal time frame, budget and preference.
Even though it cost more than places like NZ or Thailand I totally recommend you visit there. It’s an amazing place to explore and is still one of my favourite countries on the planet to travel to.
You can also save heaps with some awesome East Coast Australia Package deals which bundle in accommodation, tours and travel passes to help you save. So check these East Coast deals out – you can even tailor them even further to suit your times frames and budget.
Found this post helpful? Check out my other How Much To Budget Posts!
For more info on where to head on the East Coast check out this post .
For more info on how long to spend on the East Coast trail check out this post .
For more info on the best way to travel the East Coast of Australia check out this post.
For my sample 1 month Australia itinerary check out this post
And for the best places to visit in Australia check out this post
Or let me help plan your Aussie Adventure with my East Coast Australia Trip Planner !
How much did you spend backpacking australia and what was your original australia budget.
**PLEASE NOTE; This is to be used as a guide only – currency and cost fluctuate depending on season and exchange rates (calculated at 1.8AUD per £1GBP. Information was correct at the time of writing)**
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Just came across your blog via Stephen’s @ A Backpackers Tale & glad I found both of your incredible blogs! I just returned from studying abroad in Australia; it’s so true that everything is quite expensive in Australia & we couldn’t believe their minimum wage is in the $20 range. Your post will definitely be helpful to future travelers though! As a bucket list blogger, I will definitely be returning to keep up with your travels :)
Cheers Christine – looks like I’ll have to search through your site for some more bucket list items hey?! Glad you agree that it’ll help backpackers heading that way – did you have fun there?
Really useful tips, thanks! I’ve been in Oz for 6 months now, so I have a pretty good idea of the costs, but it’s good to see it all broken down and added up again. I agree, it’s probably worth it. What I’ve seen of the country so far has me eager to explore as much as possible. Next on my itinerary: Byron Bay!
It’s totally worth it Arianwen! Anything you’d add to the breakdown that other travellers may find useful? You’ll love Byron Bay – stay at Aquarius Hostel and say hi from me (my little brother is working there at the moment too!)
This is the most useful thing EVER. I’m going in Sept and this is overall pretty much what I had planned – and I know I’ll have plenty of money to do this and more (bungee jump definitely being added to that list!) without having to worry too much as I have really over-compensated for the fact I’ve heard Oz is so expensive. This has taken the worry off a fair bit now- and I’ve got a WHV so will be able to top up money with other travels as well as you can earn such good money.
I’m so glad you do these blog posts – thank you!
Hey Georgina, Stoked that it’s helped you out so much and put your mind at rest. Obviously you can make things heaps more expensive if you choose but I’d say it covers the main points you’ll need to spend for. And indeed your WHV will definitely help you heaps, I’d look into work for accommodation too. Have an awesome time!
Hey Chris ! I love your blog ! Very funny and attractive ;) Thanks for making me stay on it for hours, as I want to read all your posts ;) (Will I still be here tomorrow ?) Cheers to you and keep going!
hahahaha sorry to distract you for so long Christina – let me know if you get lost!hahaha!
I never normally comment on blogs but i just wanted to say THANK YOU!! we’re heading off on our RTW trip soon and were getting a bit worried about the cost of Oz but this pretty much sums up exactly what were planning to do so it seems doable! these blogs are a great idea!
awwww that’s no worries Gina – stoked it helped you out and has put your mind at rest! Enjoy Australia – you’ll love it!
hey chris me and my partner are saving at the moment to do the east coast before we leave oz. just double checking is that money all in British pounds or Aus Dollars? Cheers
Hey Terrain – stoked to hear you’re heading to Oz! All those prices have been converted over to £GBP, so it’s roughly double for $AUD at the moment.
Awesome Summary I m thinking of going 1 month in Aussie and 1 month in Nz, starting March 2015 before heading back to Belgium in June 2015… I m currently based in Hong Kong so I don t earn a lot here and this helps quite a bit. I will need to save at least half a year salary for this…incl Visa, flights from HK down the Pacific and back up to Europe
Glad to see you’re prepared and you’re giving yourself enough time to save – I hope you have an awesome adventure…Oz and NZ are heaps of fun!
Chris, You have really taken the worry off me regarding my mid-life crisis trip up the East Coast! I head off in Sept, and you have totally calmed me down. Thank you! Mx
Good times Maggie – I hope you have an awesome trip! Let me know how you get on.
I’ve been reading your reviews for some time now, extremely helpful! I thought I’d go for it and ask you about my finances for my east coast trip from the 16th Nov to 13th Dec would really appreciate the advice!
Roadtripping it from Cairns to Sydney, car has been paid for along with hostels in Cairns/Sydney. Inbetween we are going with the flow.
I’m taking £5,000 this will cover petrol, food, booze, activities and hostels. My main question is – Will this be enough money? I obviously want to do the main activities, any help would be amazing!
Keep up the good work Chris!
Hey Steven, If you manage to burn through £5k in a month simply on petrol, food, activities and hostels I’d be very surprised and you’d be terrible and budgeting!hahahaha! Seriously though that should be more than enough. If you check out the budget you can do all the key things for under £2k all in – your fuel isn’t going to add crazy amounts to that figure so as long as you keep your personal spending and meal costs under control I’m sure you’ll be fine. Let me know how you get on!
Just thought I’d say how useful this was in prepping my Oz trip for a month over Dec-Jan….just counting down the work days now. So keen its unreal!
Appreciate the helpful other articles! Safe travels. Smirnoff
Stoked that you found it useful Smirnoff – let me know how you get on!
Thanks for the tips Chris, I’ve been looking for something like this post for a while now!
I’m heading out to Sydney for the new year and then will be making my way around oz for 2-3 months. Presumably that’ll bring the monthly cost down a bit by spreading transport, big activities etc? I was hoping around £40-50 a day if I’m careful.
Spot on Craig – if you’re spreading the big costs – especially transport it should reduce your budget. Your big spends will then be food and accommodation, which depends on how you eat and sleep! Let me know how you get on!
Thanks for the tips Chris! This is so useful, I’m going to Australia with about £3000 so at least I know I’ll need to find work within the first couple of months! Thanks!
No worries Aleesha – let me know how you get on…and have an awesome time!
Dreams currently shattering. I need to just work through this holiday, only way around it…
Awwww sorry to hear that Casey! Still at least you know how much it costs now rather than turning up and finding out you have no money to spend! Keep in mind that the big expenses and trips won’t all be crammed into a month…
This has helped so much, thank you! I was trying to find out how much to take, how to budget etc. and then came across this. Life saver! I’m off to Australia for 2 months in February and I’m so excited, it’s ridiculous! Fab blog, it’s definitely my favourite now!
Hey Lauren, Stoked that the post helped you out! Have a blast in Oz and let me know who you get on! I’m actually in Byron Bay in Feb for a couple weeks, if you’re around for a beer let me know!
Awesome post! Im not off until October but planning on going for the year! Defo have to save hard until then! Hope you’re having an awesome time where ever you are! :)
Hope you enjoy it Katie – let me know if I can be of any help! Good luck with the saving – it’ll be totally worth it!
This blog has been has been an incredible help in planning my trips. Im off to Oz the middle of February. Thanks for your help and insight!
No worries Thomas – glad it helped you out! Whats your plan?
I am so sorry that I did´t find this blog before my trip to Australia. But I survived:) And my budget was way under your estimate. I was backpacking and couchsurfing throug Australia. And all my plane tickets were prebought. For five tickets (returning to Europe) I paid 1100€. And all together (with plane tickets and insurance, all accomodation, transport, food and drinks) I spent around 2000€ (around 1500 Ł). Now I have to go and read BUDGET THAILAND :) tnx
Stoked to hear you got it under budget Jasmina – couch surfing is a solid shout to save whilst on the road! how long were you out there for and anything you’d recommend I add into it? When you heading to Thailand?
This was really helpful. Im starting in Sydney in 12 days time and hoping to be there for a year or longer. Im in no rush to travel up to cairns but want to do it all! obv i know i will need to work probs after a month or two. Whats the best way to travel? stay in hostels and then greyhound it up? or campervan?
Hey Alice – stoked the post helped you out! To be honest it depends on your cash flow with travel. Oz Experience or Greyhound are good shouts, but the passes are only valid for 3 or 6 months. You’d be better off with a KM pass which is valid for 12 (or until the kms run out!) check out my other site for some more info;
http://www.epicgapyear.com/portfolio_page/greyhound-bus-passes-australia/
Campervan wise if you have the cash it can be a great option (I did it myself) however if things go wrong with it it can ruin your trip too! Many of the key spots you’ll need to book into a campsite anyway so sometimes the buses are the most hassle free option!
Hey Chris, I was wondering whether you could help me?
I’m looking to go Oz and want to do the east coast, but not sure whether it would be cheaper to book the grey hound bus and then pay for the trips when I’m out there like whitsundays and fraser island or would it be better to do the Oz Experience which includes the trips?
I’m going to get a working holiday visa as well so would probably want to travel first and then go back to somewhere to try find work.. Is that the usual thing to do or would you say to work whilst travelling up?
Thanks in advance :)
I actually jus put up a post about this which is worth checking out!
https://www.backpackerbanter.com/blog/best-way-to-travel-east-coast-australia
If you’re on an Oz working visa I’d go for the Greyhound KM passes as they have a longer validity that you can also top up along the way too. This means you’re not on a timescale and can go with the flow a bit more. You can then book your Fraser Island/Whitsundays trips en route.
You can get more info and book on my other site – Epic Gap Year – on the following link;
In regards to work/travel it depends on how much cash you have saved really and where you want to work. I’d maybe do a little trip (say fly into Melb, do the great ocean road then travel to Sydney) so you have a little adventure before topping up the funds, but it comes down to how far you’re money will go really.
Thanks Chris, that’s really helped! Think we will go for the KM passes! If we wanted to go from Sydney – Cairns what pass would we need? Not sure on how many km that will be… Would the 2500km cover it or would we need to get the 5000km?
As we’re getting the km passes I think we will do the travelling bit first then look for work :)
Hi Chris, I came across your website as I am researching a trip around the East Coast of Oz for about a month. You’ve got some really useful tips so I definitely need to read on more but quick question, do you think 4 weeks is too long to spend just in Victoria and NSW? Thanks
Hey Sarah, Stoked the site is helping you out! Hmmm time wise it really depends what you’re getting up to, but you can do the whole of Sydney – Cairns in 4 weeks if you really want! Check out this mini guide for some extra tips to help you decide;
https://www.backpackerbanter.com/blog/east-coast-of-australia-how-long
Hi Chris, Great blog glad i stumbled across it!
I’m traveling to oz in May starting in Cairns. Was wondering whether to work straight away as its Australian winter time when i get over there and wait till it starts going into summer before i work my way down the east coast? I’d love to spend Christmas and new year in Sydney
Any help would be much appreciated
Cheers James
Cheers James – stoked you like it! Personally your plan to start working straight away is a solid shout and what I’d do, that way you have a even more savings to play with and can enjoy the Aussie summer even more! If you’re already planning NYE in Sydney I’d get that booked as quickly as you can because hostels book out super early in the year – WakeUp Hostel is where I stay, great place and super central!
So glad you said that. Would never of thought about booking in advance. I’d been pretty gutted if every where was full and i couldn’t see in the new year in Sydney!
Where you recommended is fully booked up, as is a lot of other hostels for NYE. i managed to get a reservation at Surfside coogee beach hostel.
I owe you a beer!
Amazing blog, sobglad I came across it.
I and a mate are planning a trip to Oz on 1st Oct. The plan is to start in Cairns and campervan along the east coast to Melbourne where we will stay for a while before heading to Perth. We want to stay over in Sydney for NYE. Do you think Oct to Jan from Cairns to Sydney is too long? Any advice would be great! Cheers Dee
Hey Dee, Stoked you’re loving the site! To be honest the longer you take on the East Coast the more you’ll enjoy it! Are you looking at working at all? A lot of it will come down to budget and what you’re doing along the way. 6 weeks is the minimum I’d really recommend to take so you’ll have plenty of time to chill and soak it all up!
Your sites are really helpful and you have encouraged people to travel OZ.Alot of people are now travelling Asia and New Zealand instead of Australia because because it is too expensive and people think that Australia is not worth the money.It is a shame because they are missing out on some beautiful places.With your website ,you have given people peace of mind ,when travelling my home country ,Australia
I love travelling Oz Louisa – it’s a shame it is a bit more expensive but I still think it’s totally worth doing…in fat I’m living in Byron Bay at the moment!
Hi, thanks for your tips!
I’m coming to Australia for a year on a working visa and plan on spending the first months working and living with my relatives. I then want to do an East Coast backpacking trip and then go on the New Zealand/Asia. I’m worried I will have too much luggage with me to go on the buses/stay in hostels. Would you recommend leaving the majority of my stuff with my family and getting them to send it back to the UK? I don’t know what the best way would be.
No worries Molly! To be honest I wouldn’t take more than 65litres of stuff unless you REALLY have to, trust me you’ll accumulate stuff along the way but you’ll also realise a lot of your gear isn’t being used!hahaha! The best rule to travel by is half the stuff, double the money! ;)
Hi really good article you wrote! Great tips gonna use them to planning for my trip to the east coast, i’m traveling to oz in about three weeks! :) I will check your other blogposts to!
No worries Adam, stoked they helped! Enjoy Australia, heaps of fun!
Hey Chris, love your blog and found it super helpful. I’m a New Zealand resident and wanting to go to Aussie next year just before Spring. I can spend as much time in Aussie as I want because of this and am wanting to find work as I travel up the east coast ( mostly farm/fruit picking work) and just want to know how much you would recommend me to go over with after I pay for the plane ticket, clothing, insurance etc. I will be ( If everything goes to plan ) either staying in working hostels/ hostels, and or buy a car/van to sleep in. What do you think of this and again I love your blogs :)
Hey Zequoia, jealous of your Kiwi passport! Personally the more dollar you can take to Oz the better, but given your passport situation I don’t see it being an issue picking up work pretty easily!
We’ve travelled on east coast in 2011. We had a car, slept in tent in camping’s, between the camping-holiday parks are very good equipped, you can cook by yourself. so I don’t see any reason to be in hostel/hotel in such nice weather in Queensland. We also took 2x day trip to coral reef.
I campervanned a lot of it the first time I was there and loved it! Depends if you want to meet heaps of travellers and how you’re making your way along the coast I guess!
Want to drink on the cheap follow some of these goon recipes!! (www.goodgoonguide.com)
Hello, Chris! You gave us so useful tips. Australia is one of my dream destinations and I hope that one day I will be able to use on practice your advices :) Gooood luck trough the New year :)
Stoked to have helped you out Julia – let me know when you’re heading this way!
Thanks this is a really useful post! I’ve been trying to figure out when to move to Australia based on money and this was super useful! What month would you suggest going to have the best luck getting a job?
Stoked it helped you out! Hmmmmm it really depends on where you’re heading and what kind of work I guess…
Awesome post! i really like your budget travelling posts. Many people think travelling is very costly (sometimes can be), but with proper budgeting, it isn’t really hard to save up!
Indeed it’s a case of being prepared. Yes some countries (like Oz) are more expensive, but it depends how you’re mixing them up and spreading out big costs.
Thanks for this! If people realized how much money they throw around each month, they’d see just how easy it is to save up for a super awesome trip in Australia. I was working on a visa in Australia and for a few months I saved up quite a bit to have an amazing trip in Nepal for 6 weeks.
Yeah, a lot of money is spent where it’s not even noticeable.. Great writeup!
Wow this is crazy that this is just for backpacking Australia for a month. That’s close to $5,000 Canadian Dollars. I couldn’t imagine even if you might want to live it up just a bit.
That does include pretty much everything you’d want to tick off and it is heaps of fun. My advice is always travel for a bit longer and spread it all out as that drops your daily spend down quite a bit and makes it much more affordable
So glad I found this blog – great advice. Thanks for sharing!
No worries Anthony!
Hey Chris! This is such a helpful blog. My family and I has been planning to come over to Australia for vacation this coming April but we’re estimating how much we should bring. Such a life saver!
You are right about How Much To Budget For A Month In Australia
Home » Oceania » Australia » Is Australia Expensive? (Insider’s Guide for 2024)
Australia is a destination that everyone should make sure to visit in their lifetime. It’s where many backpackers decide to explore for a year, and then end up staying forever. There’s a reason for this; the country has it all .
With miles and miles of gorgeous beaches, an expansive outback, untamed national parks and wetlands, sprawling metropolis cities, good food, warm locals and amazing wildlife – what more could you want from a holiday destination?
But while we all know that Australia is a popular place to visit, the question remains: Is Australia expensive? The funny thing is, the answer often varies depending on who you ask.
The cost of a trip to Australia largely depends on your level of luxury and how much you want to do. Diving for example, is an expensive activity, while the beaches are free.
If you’re thinking of visiting Australia and need help putting together your travel budget, then I’m here to help. This guide has everything you need to know for how much it will cost to travel to Australia, as well as provide some tips on how to save money…
Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.
Cost of flights to australia , price of accommodation in australia , cost of transport in australia , cost of food in australia , price of alcohol in australia , cost of attractions in australia , additional costs of travel in australia , some final tips for saving money in australia , so is australia expensive, in fact.
The cost of a trip to Australia is going to vary from person to person. The first thing you need to do is to figure out how much you have to spend.
Getting a rough idea of your trip budget will help you work out what you can spend on essentials like accommodation and transport. You’ll also need to factor in the price of things such as food, activities and souvenirs, too.
All the travel costs listed in this guide are estimates and are subject to change. Prices are listed in US Dollars.
Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). As of August 2022, the exchange rate is 1 USD = 1.45 AUD.
To help you out with an outline of the prices, you’ll find a summary of the average costs of a two-week trip to Australia below.
ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $146 – $1,199 USD for a roundtrip ticket.
So is Australia expensive to fly to? Well, that really depends on where in the world you’re based. It’s true that airfares to Australia can be pricey, as the country is fairly far away from a lot of places. If you’re travelling from Europe or the U.S., you can expect to pay at least a few hundred dollars for your ticket.
But don’t let that put you off your trip. There are some ways you can get cheaper flights to Australia, it just takes a little time and being open-minded when it comes to times and dates. For example, tickets to Australia tend to be more expensive between the months of December to February when the nation is basking in warm summers.
Travelling to Australia in the shoulder seasons of autumn or spring can save you some serious cash when it comes to booking flights. Prices can creep up again in July and August when much of Europe takes its summer break.
If you’re heading to Aus, it’s likely that you’ll fly into Sydney Airport (SYD). The city’s main airport is located eight kilometres (around five miles) from the centre of town. It takes only around 30 minutes to drive into the city from the airport. The price of the transport from the airport should also be something you budget for, but more on that later.
Here are the average costs of a flight to Australia from a range of international air travel hubs:
Those of you flying from international travel hubs will see that the cost of flights isn’t particularly cheap. This is a long-haul flight, so you have to spend a lot for the privilege. Some good deals can be found, however, and you can make a trip to the land down under on a budget.
Make sure to put some time into searching on price comparison websites like Skyscanner. Be flexible with your dates and flight times and you’ll be shown a range of different flights at various costs. For the cheapest flight, you may have to break the trip up into different legs, but overall it can save you a good amount of money.
ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $18 – $200 per night
After you’ve sorted the flights, the next cost to consider is the price of accommodation in Australia. This is going to take up another chunk of your travel budget , but don’t worry too much.
Australia is a big country with a huge choice when it comes to budget-friendly places to stay, from its easy-going hostels to budget hotels and affordable Airbnbs. You won’t have to spend a stack of cash on expensive hotels.
The price you pay for a hotel room or hostel bed will fluctuate depending on the time of year you visit. Accommodation costs can skyrocket during the school holidays in the peak season. For example, a beach break in the Australian summer could cost more for the same beach-side Airbnb or hotel than in the winter. Accommodation prices also peak on weekends.
Another factor to consider is where you stay in Australia . Accommodation in the centre of the city tends to be more expensive, so look for neighborhoods further out and travel in. Likewise when visiting beach towns. You can find cheaper accommodation the further away from the ocean you are.
Let’s take a closer look at the range of accommodation that Australia has to offer…
Australia has long had a culture of backpacking. Well-known as global travellers, Australians themselves love to get out and explore, as well as all the thousands of global backpackers who visit here. All of that adds up to a thriving hostel scene, one which is well-trusted, affordable, and a whole lot of fun.
The cheapest hostels in Australia start at around $18 per night.
You won’t just find one type of hostel in Australia though. Head to a city and you can enjoy the shiny urban hostels complete with cafes and social lounges, while at the beach there are laid-back surfer vibes and BBQs, and then there are the happening party hostels.
Take a look at these top hostels the nation has to offer and get a better feel for the kind of affordable digs you could be staying in during your trip:
Australia has tens of thousands of properties listed on Airbnb. From compact city condos all the way to palatial beach houses , all of these choices mean that the chances of you finding a reasonably priced place to stay are pretty high. Airbnb is a popular option for many as it means you can relax in a home away from home during a trip.
The price of an Airbnb in Australia does vary quite dramatically depending on the location. Sydney’s Airbnbs are usually a lot more expensive when compared to the country’s smaller cities. You should expect to pay upwards of $90 a night for an entire property. For a low-cost stay, a good option is to simply book just a room in a house on Airbnb.
But it’s not just about finding somewhere to grab a few hours of sleep. You want to stay somewhere that you can enjoy your trip, and that means cool apartments overlooking cityscapes, or tiny houses on the Gold Coast. Airbnbs offer the chance to see some amazing destinations and really helps to open up Australia to overseas visitors.
Opting for this style of self-catering accommodation can also help to ease the burden on your wallet. Whipping up a few meals and starting your day with a homemade breakfast will really take the edge off your travel budget (more on that later).
If you still think that Australia is expensive, take a quick peek at these affordable Airbnbs…
Hotels are usually the most expensive accommodation option and you can end up paying a whole lot of money for a simple room for the night. But Australia has a lot of different types of hotels to choose from, and you can find budget chain hotels and cool local hotels for low prices.
Most cities have budget-friendly hotels which cost around $70 a night. The room rates usually reflect the part of the city the hotel is located in. A good tip is to look for accommodation in student areas, or parts of the city that are backpacker hubs. Outside of peak tourist season, the price of hotels also drops.
They might be a little more expensive, but there’s no denying the perks of staying in a hotel. For one thing, you get a big comfy bed, room service, and other bonuses like on-site restaurants and gyms to use. Hotels are usually in easy-to-reach locations, close to public transport, which can also save you some cash.
Just to help you get started with your search for hotels in Australia, here’s a small sample of some affordable options:
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ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $0 – $40 per day
Working out how to get around Australia can be pretty daunting at first. This is the sixth largest country in the world, after all. Taking up over 7,617,000 square kilometres and with a coastline that stretches for more than 34,000 kilometres, this is one big nation. Needless to say, planning where to go and how to get there could be a challenge.
Luckily, there’s a good selection of reliable ways to travel around Australia meaning getting from place to place isn’t too much of a headache. With over 300 airports and domestic airlines connecting all of the major cities and popular tourist sites, flying is a good option for those who are short on time.
For something a little more affordable, trains are a very popular way to travel in Australia. Most of the big cities have a railway network and there are some truly amazing railway journeys that travel through beautiful landscapes. Travelling by rail can be affordable, too, with a range of different train passes available for travellers.
But when it comes to budget travel in Australia, the bus reigns supreme. Getting from place to place in the country is made easy by the well-trodden backpacker routes that are plied by buses. There’s a choice of different bus companies to use and some low-cost bus tickets making it even more affordable.
For travellers who want to see a large portion of the country, one of the best and most popular ways to get around is by car. After all, Australia has the second-highest level of car ownership in the world. Most people choose to hire a car to do road trips during their down under adventures , but buying a car just for the trip can also be pretty cost-effective.
Let’s take a closer look at transport to work out if Australia is expensive to travel around.
There are some truly epic railway journeys across Australia’s stunning landscapes. That being said, taking the train isn’t always the cheapest or most convenient way to get around. Train journeys in Australia are more about the experience rather than practicality. Trains in Australia are run by a selection of government and private companies.
Some of the best railway journeys include The Ghan, the famous train that connects Adelaide through the Red Centre to Alice Springs and to Darwin. Then there’s the Indian Pacific route which takes three days to cross the great Nullarbor Plain between Sydney and Perth. The Great Southern links Brisbane and Adelaide, and the Overland runs to Melbourne from Adelaide.
There are no high-speed trains in Australia, although plans to build high-speed routes have been in the works for some years. If you do want to take advantage of the sightseeing and the sense of adventure on offer from Australia’s railways then make sure to book in advance.
Booking at least six months in advance will give you over 10% discount on certain routes; sometimes you can save up to $25. Families will be pleased to learn that children under the age of four travel free. Rail passes can help to make the price of a train trip much cheaper with a variety of different routes and passes on sale.
Here’s a look at just some of the railway passes on offer in Australia.
Hopping aboard air-conditioned trains that connect Sydney with Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra cut out the need to pay for expensive airfares. The routes are run by NSW TrainLink, which runs daily XPT trains between Sydney to Melbourne. There’s also an overnight train so you can save time and on the cost of accommodation by bedding down on the train.
The choice of month-long passes is an ideal choice for those who are thinking about travelling long-term in Australia, or in a certain region. Most of the passes offer a choice of days, weeks, or months, so all you have to do is choose the option that suits you and get travelling.
Australia has a sizable bus network which makes getting between destinations straightforward. The buses are well-used by travellers for getting around, as they ply the most popular destinations and big tourist spots. It might not be as exciting as a flight or even a train journey, but bus trips in Australia are a whole lot more affordable
The only downside of grabbing a seat on a bus is that the distances are long . You should know that routes often take multiple hours to drive and night buses are not uncommon. On the bright side, the buses are clean, and modern, and have that much-needed aircon. Overall the services are reliable and there are even toilets and wi-fi on board.
The main bus companies are Greyhound, Intercity Coach Lines, and Firefly Express. Tickets are easy to purchase online ahead of time and you can even buy hop-on and hop-off fares, which really adds a lot of flexibility to your trip.
Fares will vary depending on the length of the trip and the destination, but overall bus travel in Australia is really good value, especially if you use the Greyhouse Bus passes .
One example is the Greyhound East Coast Australia Bus Pass, which can be used on the route up the East Coast and costs $172.
Possibly one of the best options when it comes to affordable transport in Australia is the Greyhouse Whimit Bus Pass. The flexible pass gives you unlimited travel on the Greyhound network in a specific block of time – for example, costs are 30 days, $289; 90 days, $413; and 115 days $234.
Overnight buses in Australia also can help to save you some money on accommodation so you can turn up at your destination and get exploring.
Being such a huge country, one of the most popular ways to travel around is by catching a flight. If you don’t have much time and want to see some particular sites in Australia, the best way to get around is by flying. Driving and train travel can take days so the only option to get around quickly is to catch a plane.
In recent years, there have been more budget operators flying interstate routes in Australia, but prices can still be expensive. One-way flights from Perth to Darwin cost around $250; Sydney to Melbourne cost around $100.
There are some discounted tickets sold by various airlines in Australia. One option is the Walkabout Air Pass which will give you three discounted flights within the country, but this must be booked when you book your international flight to Australia.
The best way to secure deals on flights in Australia is to book in advance and try to be flexible when it comes to times. Otherwise, if you really need to schedule a flight for your trip, you’ll just have to budget for it accordingly.
Once you’re on the ground in Australia, you’re going to want to explore all of the sights and fun local neighbourhoods in its towns and cities. Luckily, Australia’s cities have some easy-to-use public transport networks so you can leave the car behind and take the train or bus instead.
The Australian cities of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide all have extensive rail networks, but only Sydney has a metro network. However, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth all have city-centre commuter trains that work pretty much the same as a metro.
Sydney can be a bit daunting at first, but you’ll be able to rely on cheap public transport to get around. One of the best ways to see the city is by taking one of its ferries. That way you can see the sights and get around quickly and cheaply, too.
You can also get buses around the city. The network is run by Transport NSW which operates buses from 4:30am to 12.00pm as well as night buses. Big city bus hubs can be found at Circular Quay, Wynyard station, Central Station, and Town Hall Station.
Sydney has an electric ticket called the Opal card . You can order one online before your trip or simply pick one up at the newsagents and convenience stores in the city. The minimum credit is $10, but if you pick one up at the airport you will be charged $35 which is the fee to catch the train into the city centre.
For those of you who like to cycle in cities, it’s best to stick to the metro. Sydney isn’t well known when it comes to great cycle routes; there are a whole lot of hills to tackle and the infrastructure isn’t well-laid out for cyclists.
If you want to get around quickly and it’s not rush hour then you can always hop in a taxi. Reliable and affordable for short tips, just make sure to avoid them at busy times.
Australia is an amazing place to take a road trip . Getting behind the wheel and hitting the road in Aus is what dreams are made of. This absolutely enormous country has some epic roads that make taking a trip by car always a good idea. You can breeze through the desert and stop off at far-flung towns to have the most memorable trip ever.
Choosing which route to take or how long you have to spare can be hard to work out though. There’s a selection of different vehicles to select from depending on the journey you’re going to be embarking on. For shorter trips, a normal car should be totally fine just as long as it’s a new and well-maintained vehicle.
For a longer trip, you may want to consider hiring a larger car or even a campervan to travel around in. Campervans are a good idea if you’re travelling as a group or as a couple.
You can save a lot of money when it comes to accommodation costs but will need to pay to camp overnight at campsites, though there are places you can camp free of charge which can save you some cash.
The average cost of car rental in Australia is $1,903 per month, which is around $63 per day. This price will vary depending on the size of the car and the time of year. You can find a long list of international firms in big cities and at airports, as well as smaller local companies in local communities.
It’s a good idea to check that Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is part of the rental price being quoted, and you should also take note of the additional insurance which can cost upwards of $9 per day. Parking can also cost $15 or more a day depending on the location.
One more cost that you will want to factor into road trips is the price of toll roads. Some of Australia’s roads are privately owned and the cost of tolls can quickly add up. Fuel in Australia is currently priced at around $1.16 per litre.
Want to save some cash and explore Australia by rental car? Use rentalcar.com to find the best deal possible. There are some great prices on the site and they aren’t difficult to find.
ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $10 – $50 USD per day
Australia is well known for one type of food: Barbecue. This is the nation’s famous al fresco cook-up which takes place in backyards, on beaches, and at campsites. The food culture of Australia has a lot of its roots in British dishes, but over the years has developed its own sense of identity and style
Australia is lucky to have a ton of fresh ingredients grown around the nation as well as enough coastline which means a supply of fresh seafood is never too far away. International influences and exciting flavours help to add unique twists to classic dishes.
Here’s some food you should look out for when in Aus.
Is Australia expensive for food? Well, depending on where you eat, it really can be. Here are a couple of handy tips to help you enjoy some good food in Australia that doesn’t break the bank.
Depending on what part of town or city you are staying in Australia can be expensive for food and drink. But there are some ways you can stick to your daily travel budget and still enjoy a whole lot of tasty food. Here are a couple of helpful tips…
But when you’re on a big trip and trying to stick to a budget, you can’t eat out all the time. There will be meals where you have to cut back a bit on the cost and simply cook for yourself.
Thankfully, Australia has a good selection of cheap supermarket chains that are reliable places for buying low-cost ingredients.
ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $0 – $38 per day
Whether it’s having a few drinks, a few cold ones with mates, kicking back with a glass of wine after work, or a stubbie with a BBQ, Australians love a drink. The nation has a strong culture of drinking and you don’t have to go far to find a bar or shop that sells alcohol.
The culture around drinking is fairly relaxed, it’s often a part of social situations and it’s pretty normal to see people grabbing a few drinks after work or with their friends and families. But the price of alcohol in Australia can be surprisingly expensive. In 2018 the minimum price for alcohol was set at $1.30 per drink.
Pub culture is also a big part of drinking in Australia. Wherever you are in the country, chances are you’ll be able to find a local pub in the town. These social hubs are where you will find locals drinking but they can also be frequented by families and students in certain areas.
The cheapest places to drink in Australia can usually be found around areas that are popular with backpackers or students. Bars in these parts of town will advertise cheap drinks deals and happy hours to entice budget-minded party-goers through the doors.
Beer is available all over Australia and is typically sold in a 425ml glass called a schooner or a 570ml pint. Costs range from $6 for a schooner, or upwards of $10 for a pint.
Wine is also a very popular drink in Australia. After all, the nation produces some fantastic home-grown wine. Glasses of wine in a bar will cost around $6-$8, while a bottle of wine is usually priced anywhere between $14 and $20 (at the lower end).
Cocktails at a nice Melbourne restaurant or in a swanky bar in Sydney will usually cost you somewhere between $10 and $15.
Read on to find out what regional specialty drinks you should make sure to try on your trip:
For when you really want to party, make sure not to miss out on the happy hours. If you want to have a few drinks and not break the bank, happy hours are for you. Just keep an eye out for adverts in bar windows and check out good happy hours near you online. The best part is that food is often included in the deal too!
ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $0 – $35 USD per day
Australia offers up a whole world of fantastic attractions that are bound to keep you busy during your trip. This might not be a visit to Rome with all of its history, or even a break in Paris, but what Australia does offer is modern cities, wonderful beaches, and a stunning selection of national parks.
This country is definitely one for those who love the great outdoors. Aus is awash with activities that will get your adrenaline racing or simply chill you out along the coast. You’ll be able to choose from epic water sports like surfing and diving or spend the day sunning yourself at the beach.
The costs of popular activities can be expensive. Taking a tour of a winery in the Yarra Valley costs approximately $50 per person, whereas if you want to spend the day diving you should put aside about $250 for the trip.
Australia’s national parks are great places to get stuck into the natural scenery for a small price. A lot of the parks don’t charge entrance fees, while some only charge a small amount. They often have camping facilities and other amenities for visitors to use.
If you want to make full use of the parks, it’s a good idea to purchase an affordable National Park Pass which can make longer visits much cheaper. You can spend days hiking in the wonderful scenery and spend hardly any money at all.
When you’re in a town or city and want to spend the day at a museum or gallery, make sure to budget around $10-$20 for the ticket. Some places do have free entry days or offer discount prices to students. Cities like Sydney have passes for tourists which include skip-the-line entrance.
To help you save money on attractions in Australia, here are some pointers to take into consideration:
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By now, you should hopefully have a pretty good idea of your Australia travel budget. I’ve outlined the cost of food, flights, accommodation, and activities. There are a few more things that you will need to factor into your daily budget, however.
Hidden daily costs can be hard to plan for in advance, but can quickly add up when you’re out and about on a trip. You could see some nice gifts you want to pick up for your family and friends, or you might even want to buy yourself some souvenirs to remember your trip.
Other costs that you might not foresee include paying for laundry at hostels, storing your luggage at a station, or buying a coffee every morning. All of these small costs will add up and can really make a dent in the cost of your trip.
It’s a good plan to put aside around 10% of your trip budget for these one-off purchases so the costs don’t creep up on you.
As with most places in the world, tipping is a voluntary action and not something you have to do in Australia. That being said, you should try to leave a token of your gratitude for the waitstaff after a good meal or if you have received particularly good service.
It’s normal to leave a tip in restaurants in Australia, around 10% is the normal amount that is left. Sometimes gratuity is already included on the bill at the end of the meal; if that’s the case, you don’t have to leave a tip. But you don’t actually have to pay the gratuity if you don’t think the service was up to scratch.
If you’re at a cafe and have enjoyed a nice coffee or lunch, then you could opt to leave a few dollars for the staff. In this case, around 5% or simply rounding up the bill is a good idea. Some people might just put a few dollars in the tip jar on the counter.
When you’re on a tour or are taking part in an activity like scuba diving and you have really enjoyed your experience, it’s a nice gesture to tip the tour leader a few dollars at the end of the day. This is also very much appreciated if you’re taking advantage of a free walking tour in a city like Sydney.
For services such as hairdressers and drivers, you don’t need to tip, but if you have been pleased with the level of service then a few dollars (or rounding up) is a nice amount to leave. The tip is not expected, however.
At high-end hotels sometimes tipping is par for the course. Usually, guests would leave a couple of dollars for the concierge or the bellhop. It’s also fairly common to leave a token of appreciation for the housekeeping team to show them your thanks.
Overall, Australians in the service industry are paid a good living wage and do not usually have to supplement their paycheck with tips. You don’t have to tip in Australia, but it’s always nice to tip for good service.
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Ok, I’ve gone over pretty much all the big costs and hopefully helped to answer the question of ‘Is Australia expensive?’ So before we all head off into the sunshine, here are some final pieces of money-saving advice…
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I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Australia isn’t that expensive. This far-flung destination has a rich array of wild natural scenery, super friendly people, and an easy-going beach scene. It’s true that it can be expensive – if you stay in expensive hotels and eat out every night.
But your trip doesn’t need to break the bank. Australia is well used to budget travellers and has got a great choice of cheap accommodation, backpacker bars, and affordable transport for you to take full advantage of.
What we think the average daily budget for Australia should be:
So, as long as you don’t try to do everything, a reasonable budget per day for Australia is around $45.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
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Imagine kangaroos hopping by as you sip world-class coffee in a Melbourne café—dreamy, right? But how much cash will that Aussie adventure set you back? Let's crunch numbers and pack dreams!
Australia is famous for tropical beaches, wide-country spaces, Aboriginal culture, and lush rainforests. The country has so many beaches that it will take 27 years to visit, one per day. However, you'd want to know what a visit will cost you before you visit.
A one-week vacation in Australia costs an average of $2579 per person, including $1200 for your return flight. A solo traveler will spend an average of $197 per day on expenses. This average cost includes food, accommodation, local transportation, and other activities throughout your stay in Australia.
Australia is large and expensive, but it offers visitors much value. The rest of the article will provide a detailed breakdown of travel costs. Read on also to find tips on how to save money vacationing in Australia.
Accommodation, food and drinks, and tours are the big spenders after flight tickets. A reasonable amount of money you need to take on a 7-day trip to Australia is around $2,579-$3,000 .
This average amount should cover your round trip and afford you mid-range accommodation. Mixing up your eating styles by eating out a few nights and cooking some meals yourself is also more affordable.
Tours are expensive in Australia, and the least amount you can spend is $92.81 for the barrier reef snorkel tour. Budget spenders can always opt for other sightseeing activities such as a $15 surfing museum, a $65 surf lesson, and a $23 Sydney tower visit.
Intercity travel alone can be as expensive as $150. However, you can save by focusing on one city at a time. You can take advantage of some free activities like visiting the beach, the Sydney opera house, and botanical gardens.
You can take a 7-day trip to Australia on a budget of $1050, but this comes with several lifestyle changes. If you can soldier through the inconveniences of taking standby flights, you can get a round trip to Australia for around $621.
Take advantage of Australia's dense network of campgrounds for lodging. There are free campsites all over Australia, and most of them are budget friendly . These camps have basic facilities and are mostly located in areas with relatively low costs of living.
Pick campsites in central locations so you can easily walk to the beaches. If traveling with friends, you can rent a campervan for between $100-$200 per day to visit more scenic locations.
Related Read: Best Time to Visit Australia
Before packing your bags for an Australia trip, creating a detailed budget for everything you'll need to spend on your trip is crucial. To enable you to create an accurate budget, here's an item-by-item breakdown of everything constituting the total cost of your Australia trip.
Flight tickets are one of the most significant expenses on your journey, taking away a substantial chunk of your budget. The price of flight tickets may vary depending on several factors, such as the peak season, the day of the flight, and booking in advance.
The average cost of a round trip to Australia is $1200. However, this cost increases to $2100-$2900 from late December to January and decreases to $1100-$1200 from late August to early September . Collected data shows that Tuesdays are the cheapest days to fly to your destination and back.
Many travelers found that booking their flights at least 60 days before departure is cheaper than booking within 72 hours. Australian flight tickets are expensive because of the limited number of airlines and the lack of competition.
Accommodation is right on the heels of your flight tickets, also contributing significantly to your travel costs. Australia has a range of accommodation styles, such as hostels, hotels, Airbnbs, and vacation rentals.
Hostels are mainly found on the East Coast and include several options for different budgets. There are 12- bed shared dorms that cost between $25-$50 or ensuite rooms and private rooms for a slightly higher budget .
Hotels also offer different styles for different budgets. From the real-life experiences of many travelers, the average cost of a 1-star hotel is $50. 2-star- 5-star hotels cost $70, $80, $120, and $240, respectively.
Airbnb and vacation rentals offer a unique and comfortable option. They cost hundreds of dollars, from $100 to $1000 above. Although this is the most expensive option, they typically offer top-notch facilities to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
The prices of accommodation fluctuate with the city, length of stay, and season of visits, such as Christmas or New year. You can always cut the overall cost of accommodation by not ordering your meals from your hotel.
Related Read: Does it Snow in Australia?
As usual, food in Australia serves every budget, but the cost of a single meal will depend on your eating style. For example, eating out in some restaurants can be more expensive than cooking, and fine dining is usually more expensive than fast/street food.
Breakfast is cheaper than lunch and dinner, and some restaurants offer meal deals and discounts. The average breakfast cost is $20, while the main meal has a mid-range of $25-35 or an upper range of $35-$45. On the other hand, a MacDonald's meal costs just about $5-$7 .
Alcohol is costly in Australia because the government heavily taxes alcoholic drinks. The average beer cost in a bar is $5-$8, a glass of wine is $10 above, and cocktails cost $15. However, you can buy a box of Goon at $10-$15 if you don't mind cheap boxed wine.
Australia is a country and a continent that is considered the most significant island and sixth largest country on earth. Its large cities and structures mean that it has several tourist attractions and beautiful sightseeing locations.
Taxis are more expensive than public transportation, and car rentals are also available . Here are all the options available to you and what you can expect to pay for each.
Also, if you're planning to take long road trips, you may want to consider getting comprehensive car insurance from a company like ROLLiN' to give you peace of mind when on the road.
Related Read: 25 Fun Things to Do on a Long Flight
Australia has an extensive network of tourist attractions that are impossible to avoid. Some favorite big-name travel spots include the Sydney harbor bridge, the Great Barrier reef, dolphin kayaking, etc.
Taking tours around the big-name travel spots can get pretty expensive, costing several hundred dollars per tour . The following list will give an idea of how costly these tours can be.
Australia is a tourist haven with its beaches, deserts, and rainforests. It is a vast land so large it has three times more sheep than people, which makes it expensive.
However, visiting Australia doesn't have to be as costly as you think, especially when you know what costs to avoid and what costs not to. Here's a brief review of some money-saving tips to help you save money on your next trip to Australia.
You will save a lot of money when you plan your trip away from Australia's peak season. Australia is not a summer destination because there's competition for flights and accommodation, which makes the rates go high.
Fall (March to May) and winter (June to August) are the best time to visit Australia. During this period, flights are cheaper, and hotels offer the lowest price on accommodation, especially in June . Even with the snow in some areas, you will still enjoy Australia's vast deserts, waterfalls, and beautiful beaches.
Related Read: Best Time To Visit Indonesia
There are free attractions like the botanical gardens, the Sydney opera house, and the beaches. Australia is also easy to navigate, with car rentals to the Northern Territory Outbacks for as low as $25. While there, visit Katherine to see interesting sights like the Jatbula trail, limestone cutta cutta caves, and hot springs.
The Gippsland lakes are over 600 square kilometers of lakes, lagoons, and marshes with exotic bird species, koalas, and dolphins. Swimming and fishing at Agnes Falls, Toorongo, and Amphitheater Falls are great tourist activities. Hutt lagoon is a stunning lagoon that changes colors from soft pink to lilac and sometimes red.
You can also rent a car for $52 a month to visit Fraser Island, the largest sand island. Or you can drive down from Cairns to the lush Daintree rainforests for $35 a month. There are several more tourist attractions, and all you need to do is look out for deals on car rentals .
Australia has many well-maintained footpaths along coastal cliffs, urban laneways, and parklands you explore. Some of the world's longest tracks and trails are in Australia .
Tasmania is a world heritage-listed wilderness; you can explore the overlands there. Or you can explore the Northern Territory through the Larapinta trail across the West MacDonnell ranges.
Food prices in Australia take out the bulk of your money. Cooking your meals will save you a great deal of cash, especially when you stay in hostels.
Go shopping at supermarkets to get the best deals out of your shopping. The best time to shop is at the end of the day when supermarkets offer up to 50% discounts, especially on fresh products . Local markets also offer good product deals towards the end of the day.
Sydney, Melbourne, and Hobart organize "giving away food" events cooked from unsold products at supermarkets. You can attend these events to get a free meal.
No matter your destination, booking your flight 1-3 months from your journey is a great way to save money. When making travel arrangements, remember that traveling midweek to Saturday is usually cheaper than Sunday to Mondays.
Always remember to change your browser to incognito when booking your flight. Websites use cookies that can tell you just checked flight prices, increasing costs . Finally, book accommodation, tours, and other services in advance to ensure you get cheaper deals.
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The travel site inspired by travelers and locals alike. Find amazing destinations, unique trip ideas, the best hotels, and most comfortable resorts.
By: Author Lotte
Posted on Last updated: December 16, 2022
Categories Australia
In this post you can read about our Australia road trip budget, I hope this will give you an idea about the cost to travel to Australia.
Australia is the 6th biggest country in the world, so big in fact that it counts as a continental landmass!
With more than 823,000 kilometers of road available to be explored, it is an amazing road trip destination ( read more Australia Trivia here ).
We love love love love road trips, in fact, it's our favorite way to travel. We've gone on lots of road trips in countries such as New Zealand , Japan , Portugal , Oman , Canada , and the U.S.A.
I can say from experience that road-tripping is one of the best and cheapest options to travel!
Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).
Have you always dreamed about a Working Holiday in Australia? Check out Global Work & Travel and get a €100 discount with the coupon code PHENOMENALGLOBE .
Australia is infamous for being a rather expensive destination, however, we managed to travel Australia on a very reasonable budget.
For everyone wondering: Is Australia expensive to visit? It doesn't have to be! We spent less than €100 a day (for us as a couple) during our 6-week road trip from Cairns to Melbourne.
Check the infographic below for our Australian budget breakdown and read along for tips to save money in Australia.
I'm 100% convinced the cheapest way to travel to Australia is with a camper van (or a car and a tent).
We rented a Kuga campervan from Travellers Autobarn and drove from Cairns to Melbourne in a little less than 6 weeks.
The Kuga van was great and very comfortable! The kitchen had a sink, a m icrowave, and a small fridge. The 35-liter water tank usually lasted us around 3 days.
The large bed could easily be converted to a seating area, but since we traveled in November and December we spent most of our time outside.
The curtains let in very little light, which was nice because the sun came up quite early in the South. During our trip we never had any issues with the car, it was well-maintained and clean.
In the infographic, you can see that the daily rental costs for the campervan were €63 / 93 AUD . These costs are divided into 2 categories:
Costs for petrol.
I was fortunate to work with Travellers Autobarn and received a discount on the daily rental price of our Kuga. With this discount, the costs per day for the camper van were €47 / 70 AUD .
The only insurance we added was a 75 AUD payment to insure any damage to the windshield.
We didn't take out any additional insurance to reduce our bond liability (in case of an accident we would have had to pay up to 2500 AUD).
It's always a gamble whether or not insurance will be worth it or not. During our New Zealand road trip I bumped into another car and I was very happy we had taken out additional insurance.
During our Portugal road trip we paid for extra insurance as well but didn't need it, so we kind of wasted that money.
In the end you won't know what's smart until you hand the vehicle back in, damaged or not. It's up to you if you want to risk it;-).
Depending on the season, the type of campervan you want to rent and the additional items you choose you can pay as little as 35 AUD per day .
You can see the different types of vans and get a quote on the Travellers Autobarn website .
Fuel isn't cheap in Australia and distances are big, so fuel made up a significant portion of our daily expenses (17%) .
On average we paid €16 / 23 AUD per day. We fueled up on either Unleaded 91 or Unleaded 95. Not all gas stations sell 91, but at the ones that do this is usually the most economical option.
What really helped us to find the cheapest fuel option available was the Motormouth website (also available as an app).
The website shows the current price level of petrol stations all around Australia, there can be quite a big difference between them.
Checking the Motormouth website or app before fueling up can definitely help to save some money!
In the infographic, you can see that the total daily costs for accommodation were €4 / 6 AUD . These costs are divided into 2 categories:
We slept in our campervan pretty much all the time and were pleasantly surprised by how many free campsites we found during our road trip.
We found these campsites via Campermate , a great free app where you can find information about the site and read comments from recent visitors.
Some of these free campsites even had free hot showers! During our six-week road trip we only paid for 2 campsites, the rest of the sites were free.
We stayed at an Airbnb in Brisbane (2 nights) and Melbourne (1 night). In Yamba and Sydney, we stayed with friends (3 nights), which was great and also saved us a lot of money.
The easiest and most effective way to save money in Australia is by cooking your own food. A cheap dinner will set you back at least €10/ 15 AUD per person.
Cooking your own meal will only cost about €10/ 15 AUD for a couple , so you'll already save 50% each day by making your own dinner!
We paid € 1 9 / 28 AUD for food and drinks on an average day. We made our own breakfast, coffee, lunch and dinner on 95% of the days. Every once in a while we bought a fresh fruit juice, pizza or steaming bowl of ramen.
The average daily costs in this category were €12/ 19 AUD . These costs can be split between:
Most days we went bush-walking, explored a beautiful beach or did some sightseeing in a village or city, these activities were free. However, we also did some pretty cool excursions in Australia.
We went scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef, flew over the treetops with the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and sailed around the marvelous Whitsunday Islands.
I worked with these companies and received a discount or complimentary trip, which saved us a lot of money.
This category is a little bit of everything, ranging from public transport in Brisbane, Sydney and Canberra to costs for laundry, a local SIM, postcards home, etc.
Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .
That's all our Australia expenses! I hope this post has shown it's possible to travel to Australia on a budget and has inspired you to visit this beautiful continent!
Feel free to ask any questions you may have and enjoy planning your trip to Australia !
Also check this post about work and travel in Australia in case you're interested in getting an Australian work and holiday visa.
Also read about the best things to do in Sydney with kids and about places to visit in Daylesford .
This post was updated in October 2020.
Wednesday 4th of March 2020
Thanks a lot for this information. I wanted to know, we are doing a road trip from Cairns to Sydney on a campervan. The payment for the campervan has already been made so that’s counted. My question is, if we want to go diving on the Great Barrier Reef and to Whitsundays (basically that’s all we want to do as “paid” activities), do you think we, as a couple, can manage to spend an average of 60 eur per day? (This would be excluding the campervan as I mentioned above).
Do you have any details of your trips to Whitsunday and the great barrier?
Thanks so much!
Monday 16th of March 2020
Hi Beatriz,
That sounds like a wonderful trip! Regarding your question, well, it will be a bit of a tight budget as these two activities unfortunately don't come cheap... Sailing the Whitsundays is around 200AUD per person and diving is 300AUD for 2 dives and 320AUD for 3 dives. Without these activities, 60euro for a couple is definitely possible but if you really want to do these two activities I'd try and save another 1000AUD for your road trip (if possible).
You can find more information here: https://cruisewhitsundays.com/experiences/camira-sailing-adventure/ http://www.tusadive.com/prices/
Have a great trip! Lotte
Veronica Ricalde
Sunday 21st of October 2018
How safe is to stay in free Camping sites? we would like to go with two small Kids (6 months and 6 years) and my husband Freak out when i said that we can camp for free. do they have toiletts and showers? thank u and lovely regards
Thursday 25th of October 2018
Hi Veronica,
We never had any issues at the free campsites and I always felt safe. Free campsites usually do have toilets but no showers (though some do, but you may have to pay for the shower). In the Campermate app (https://www.campermate.com.au/welcome/index) you can find information about free (and paid) campsites. Keep in mind that some free sites are located along busy roads, which may not be ideal for you and your family. Enjoy your road trip!
Sunday 1st of April 2018
Hi Lotte! We are planning an East coast Australia road trip (4-5 weeks) in October and then on to New Zealand for 2 months. We will be using a campervan in both countries. How long in advance do we need to book the campervan to get the best deals? Can you still get a good deal a few weeks in advance or do they become really expensive by then? Thanks for your interesting blog!!
Monday 2nd of April 2018
Hi Charlotte,
Wow, your trip sounds awesome! Regarding your question, for Australia you'll be a bit ahead of the high season so I reckon you could get good deals there even if you don't book very early. For New Zealand however, you'll be traveling in peak season and I recommend to book as early as possible. While November may be easy to book, December is summer holiday for the Kiwis as well. Hope this helps! Have a wonderful time in Aussie and New Zealand!
Katie Farrant
Wednesday 17th of January 2018
Hey, I'm just wondering whether you will be uploading your Australia itinerary soon?! My partner and I are off there on the 31st Jan starting in Adelaide and going up to Cairns (by tours and greyhound) for 7 weeks. Would be great to read any recommendations you have for free/cheap activities. We have booked up a few tours- but the cost is adding up! We are off to NZ after Aus for 5 weeks and your blog made me decide to book a camper with car rental village! I can't wait!
Thanks for your comment and your trip(s) sounds great! Which tours will you be doing along the way? Yes, costs definitely add up but luckily many hikes and sightseeing in cities/villages is free. I'm working on the itinerary post, it's going to be very long (5000+ words;-). My goal is to publish the post this week because I start a new job on Monday. Perhaps you can subscribe via RSS feed so you'll receive an update when the article goes life?
So cool you'll be going to NZ as well, it's still my favorite country in the world... Have a great trip and let me know if you have questions about the itinerary once it's published.
This is what it costs to travel australia.
Australia: it’s an adventure, but it’s expensive . Especially if you’re not planning on working in Australia, travel there can put your bank account under a lot of strain. But there are plenty of different ways to enjoy Australia, for all budgets; whether you’re backpacking Australia on a shoestring or have a little bit more money to enjoy the luxuries. Here, I look at the cost of travel in Australia and how you can tailor make an Australia travel budget so you can enjoy the very best of the country while not bankrupting yourself in the process. Sound enticing?
It’s hard to make a one size fits all travel budget for Australia because there are so many different ways to explore the country. Some people want to stick to the hotspots of the east coast, others are keen to free camp their way up the west. Some may favour a whistle-stop tour to Uluru, the Top End, the Great Barrier Reef and the southern cities of Sydney and Melbourne, while others prefer to slow travel around the continent.
I’m going to explore some different trips and different budgets, so you can select the best fit for your desires and requirements. Also note that I have itineraries on every route (and more!) specified. You’ll find the links below!
As you may know, Australia is a long way from everywhere. It is fairly expensive to reach from anywhere other than Asia, but you should be able to find some fairly cheap deals if you’re flexible with dates, airports and airlines. It might also be a good idea to spend some time in Asia before flying over as it both breaks up the journey and often works out cheaper.
The first time I entered Australia, I flew from Hong Kong to Sydney with a 2 day stopover in Singapore. It cost me £180/ $312 AUD/ $231 USD. The second time, I flew from Bali to Darwin – probably the shortest international plane journey from Australia. This was cheap as chips, costing me around $40 AUD/ £23/ $29 USD. On my way home from Australia, I flew from Melbourne to Chongqing, had 3 days in Chongqing and then flew to London Gatwick from there. The total cost was around £400.
There are so many different routes through Asia, so there will most likely be one that isn’t too bank-breaking.
Unless you’re from New Zealand, every nationality needs a visa for Australia. Luckily, it can easily be obtained online and the tourist 3 month visa is free.
If you want to work, you’ll need to apply for a working holiday visa. The type that you’ll need depends on where you’re from, and it also determines what kind of work you can do to extend your visa. People from the states used to get a bad deal, as they couldn’t extend their visas – but now their options for regional work are waaaay better than those on the other visas!
The working holiday visa costs $450 AUD. You can also use this visa even if you don’t have an intention of working and just want to holiday in Australia for a year (although you’ll have needed to save up a lot for this!!).
You can apply for the visa on the Australian government website or on a site like e-visums.co.uk .
If you’re planning on a working holiday visa in Australia, you may need to provide evidence of having at least $5000 on arrival. This money will likely go on accommodation and living expenses before you find a job; although if you’re savvy and get a job quickly you could obviously save a big chunk of this – I didn’t get a job for 6 weeks after I arrived in Australia and I only spent $1500.
Working in Australia is a great way to save money, because they pay a mint. I’m talking $20-$30 an hour for restaurant and bar work, and $40+ an hour for labouring. Some of the best places to earn money are Sydney, Melbourne and Perth – although they are also expensive to live in.
I worked in Byron Bay, which may well be the worst place in Australia to work, but the best to live :). It’s difficult to find jobs in Byron Bay because everyone wants to live there, and any job offers only pay minimum wage! The place changed my life though , so I’m happy to be skint for it.
A lot of backpackers aged 18-30 tend to work when they get to Australia and use that money to travel. Not a bad way to do it…
East coast – cairns to melbourne.
The east coast – from Cairns to Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne, is the most popular backpacker odyssey in Australia. Pricey hostel rooms and eating out can make it expensive, but there are lots of ways to save money as you go.
Accommodation: This budget includes 42-56 nights in hostels. At an average of $30 per night, this would result in $1260-$1680 on accommodation.
Transport: A hop on, hop off Greyhound bus from Cairns to Melbourne pass costs $549. Note that it is cheaper if you just do the Cairns to Sydney or Cairns to Brisbane portion of the road trip. Campervan hire starts at around $1,130.04 and petrol costs about $1200. This would be split by whoever is in the car, of course.
Note: if this isn’t your only Australia road trip I strongly recommend you buy a car or campervan rather than hiring one. It works out a lot cheaper in the long run and you have more freedom.
Activities: Here is a list of all the activities that you would want to include on your ultimate east coast adventure and the average costs:
Food: For food, budgeting around $30 per day allows for two purchased smaller meals and one larger meal out. If you’re travelling for 8 weeks, that’s $1680.
Alcohol: drinking around 20 beers or glasses of wine out per week will cost $100-$160 – so anywhere between $600 – $1280 for the entire trip. If you get through a box of goon or ten beers per week bought from the bottle’o as well, you’ll be looking at another $100ish+ for the entire trip.
When I backpacked the east coast, I fitted into this category. A budget for 6 weeks in Australia includes all of the best tours, a mix of hostel stays and nights in free camp sites, some beer and goon and both cheap meals (and far too many subway sandwiches) out and self-cooked meals.
Accommodation: staying in hostels on the east coast enables you to meet other travellers and be in a great location for the activities; so you will want to stay in them at some points. If you were to stay in hostels half the time and free camp the rest of the time, you’ll spend around $620. This can obviously be cut down depending on how often you’re willing to free camp. Some hostels, like Nomads in Airlie Beach and Southern Cross Backpackers 1770, have camp spots/ places you can sleep in your car for less.
Transport: the most budget-friendly way to see the east coast is to find a ride share, which means that you’ll just be paying for your share of petrol. Depending on how many of you there are sharing the petrol, you’ll be paying $300 to $600 for the whole journey. Of course, you might want to buy your own car and see the coast this way; this is a financial commitment, but you’ll be able to get some money back when you sell it. Fuel costs around $1200 to travel from Cairns to Melbourne.
Or you could look at renting a car; which is not too expensive when split with friends. The greyhound pass is another option, costing $549, but it’s unlikely you’ll be able to stay at free campsites doing so. If you don’t have another option, you’ll be able to save on your trip in other ways.
Activities : There are a few tours that you really have to do to get the essential east coast experience. My must-dos were:
Some self-drive trips can all be done in a tour too, but if there’s more than one of you it’s nearly always cheaper to drive – even when factoring in car rental costs. These excursions include:
Food: You can get by on the east coast on a budget of $15 – $20 per day, which includes a mix of eating out and cooking for yourself. That’s around $735 for yer whole trip.
Alcohol: Limiting yourself to 10 $5-$8 drinks per week means that you’ll spend around $80 on drinks out every week – $480 for your entire trip. Add in a box of $12 goon each week and a $20 box of beer and you’re looking at $672 on alcohol for your six weeks on the east coast.
Accommodation: free camping up the coast will leave your wallet happy by costing you absolutely nothing! Check out my post for free camping tips .
Transport: A Greyhound Pass won’t cut it for this one – you’ll need to find your own (or someone else’s wheels) to really budget on the east coast. Making a mate who has their own car means that you’ll save a ton by just chipping in for petrol – you’ll pay between $600 – $300. Alternatively, buy or rent your own whip – rental can be pricey but can be split with friends, but if you buy a car and sell it at the end of your trip you’ll make a lot of the money back.
Activities: depending on your budget, you could just commit to the free things on the east coast, which includes national parks like Noosa national park, exploring towns like quirky Byron Bay and the cities of Brisbane , Sydney and Melbourne , and enjoying the thousands of kilometres of beautiful beaches. I do recommend the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays and Fraser Island trips highly; but pick and choose which you can afford and which interest you the most.
Food: If you’re organized and don’t impulse buy food, it’s easy to get by on $5 a day for cheap supermarket bought ingredients. This will cost you a total of $140 for the whole trip.
Alcohol: of course, you could not drink at all on the east coast, slashing your alcohol expenditure. If you can’t face that, a box of goon a week will cost you $12 per week or $48 for the entire trip.
While the east coast is very easy to travel solo, there are also lots of pre organised tours that plough the route. This is a great idea if it’s your first time travelling, if you’re on your own or are short on time.
There are lots of ways to save money on the west coast, but a guided tour isn’t one of them. However, if you don’t have access to a car, this is the only way to see the west – and it’s not to be missed.
Accommodation: if you favour a roof over your head, you can stay in hostels when available. This isn’t possible everywhere on the west coast but can be found in some towns. Alternatively, opting for paid-for campsites means you’re guaranteed a shower and a camp kitchen. If you’re avoiding free campsites where possible, you’re looking at spending around $450 on accommodation for 3 weeks.
Transport: if you have your own car, or can share a ride, then you’ll just be paying for petrol on the west coast. It comes to about $1200 for the whole distance from Perth to Broome (with some side stops). If you need to hire a car, rates start from $2000 – $3000 for 3 weeks.
Activities: you’ll save money on activities on the west coast – there are nowhere near as many paid-for as the east. Some highlights include:
Other amazing parts of the west coast, like beautiful beaches and national parks, are completely free.
Food: spending $15-$20 per day on food will enable you to eat quite well, eating out where possible. That’s $315 – $420 for the whole trip.
Alcohol: you won’t be hitting up many bars on the west coast, but if you’re buying a couple of boxes of beer each week you’ll be looking at around $40 per week, or $120 for the entire trip.
It’s possible to do the west coast road trip very cheaply, paying for only petrol and food. Here’s how much it can cost if you’re really looking to save.
Transport: if you have a vehicle sorted, just paying for petrol will cost around $1200 – split between however many people there are in the car.
Accommodation: you can free camp the whole way up the west coast, with the only exception being in Karijini National Park. You’ll want to spend at least 2 nights there and there are no free campsites within the park. Dales Campsite costs $10 per night, so $20 in total.
Food: if you’re very organized (there aren’t many Woolies or Coles along the west coast!) and are prepared to eat mainly tinned food, you can still get by on $5 per day for food. That’s $70 for two weeks.
Alcohol: if you’re really budgeting, alcohol should be omitted from your west coast expenditure.
Activities: the whale shark tour is one of the best things I’ve ever done, but it is expensive. If you don’t have the dollar, stick to a national parks pass, which is $40 for a vehicle and can be split with your travel mates.
The Red Centre is one hell of a road trip. Spanning from the tropical top end, through some of the world’s most inhospitable desert and ending in temperate Adelaide , it’s a wonder why more people don’t do this voyage.
The Darwin to Adelaide road trip can be done cheaply or expensively, depending on how you want to travel.
Taking a guided tour is the most expensive option, but is essential if you don’t want to drive or rent a campervan.
Accommodation: staying in proper campsites and hostels will set you back between $10-$30 per night. Campsites normally cost around $15-20, with hostels coming in at $25-$30. Because of the remoteness of a lot of places on the Darwin to Adelaide road trip, hostels are not available everywhere. If you’re paying for accommodation every night, factor in around $400.
Transport: around $1000 for petrol will get you through Kakadu and down the red centre to Adelaide. Factor in more if you want to take the Oodnadatta Track or the Red Centre Way. If you need to hire a vehicle, you’re looking at at least $2000, which can be split between you and your travelmates of course.
Activities: Kakadu National Park costs $40, which goes into preserving the park. The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park costs $25 to enter. Don’t climb Uluru , by the way. All other national parks, and most other attractions are free. You might want to spend a bit of money seeing some attractions in Alice Springs (the desert park for example is $20). Budget around $100 to see all the attractions.
Food: food can be purchased in roadhouses and in towns or cities with restaurants, but often you’ll be cooking your own meals as well. If you want to eat out where possible, factor in $10 – $15 per day on food – so $210 to $317 for your whole trip.
Alcohol: prices at campsites and remote pubs and bars can be high. If you’re buying a couple of drinks every night, you could easily be spending $25 per night, so $525 for your whole trip.
Accommodation: you could free camp pretty much the whole way (maybe paying for accommodation in Alice Springs as there are not any free campsites in the city that I am aware of) for $0. If you stay a night in Alice, you’ll end up spending just $30 for your whole trip.
Petrol: Petrol will be as before – around $1000. If you’re really stuck for cash, try and find someone with a car rather than renting one.
Activities: Unless you really have no money, Kakadu is an absolute essential. It’ll be like nowhere you’ve ever been – so do try to find the $40 from somewhere, even if it means selling your soul… Uluru as well, is obviously pretty essential for anyone travelling in the red centre. When you see the incredible amount of work that goes into protecting the nature, you won’t mind spending the money. This means you’ll be spending a minimum of $25, but probably $65 on attractions.
Food: If you’re on a super budget, food can easily be had for $5 per day. This comes in at the princely sum of $70 for food for two weeks.
Alcohol: just like elsewhere in Australia, a couple of boxes of beer a week will set you back $40 – so $80 for the whole trip.
The north west road trip is one of the most spectacular experiences in Australia. The Kimberley region is home to beautiful waterfalls, red outback roads and gorgeous gorges (pun intended). It’s not too expensive, as it’s one of the shorter road trips on this page, and there’s no hotel or hostel accommodation for the bulk of this route. That’s right, camping is necessary.
Accommodation: On the Gibb River Road , there aren’t many free campsites. So budget around $70 for the whole trip to stay on campsites en-route.
Transport: prices are high on the Gibb River Road – if you can take a few tanks and fill up in Broome it is recommended. I’d say you’re looking at paying between $500 and $700 for the whole road trip – obviously if this is split between a few of you prices go down.
Attractions: The delightful bit about the Gibb River Road is that pretty much everything that you need to do is completely free! Windjana Gorge has an entrance fee of around $14, but all other gorges, waterfalls and parks are totally free. If you do have some spare cash, you might want to do some tours on Lake Argyle. You can do sunset cruises or lunch cruises on the river, which are absolutely spectacular. I’d also recommend staying at the Lake Argyle Campground when you get there – the infinity pool is a great respite after the madness of the Gibb River Road!
Food: You won’t be able to spend much on food – for the same reason – there isn’t much available! Make sure to pack lots of tins and not too many perishables unless you have a coolbox – the car gets hot during the days. Budget around $10 per day per person – this includes a meal at El Questro when you reach it, and one in Kunannurra as well.
Alcohol: Like with restaurants, there aren’t that many places to buy booze on the Broome to Darwin road trip. I’d recommend spending the time disconnecting and enjoying nature, but if you do want some beers, grab a 10 pack for around $20.
Please note, that the Gibb River Road is a very unsealed and bumpy road. Please get your car serviced, at least before you leave Perth, to check that there is nothing that would cause it to break down in the middle of the road. Make sure you have a spare tyre – or two if you can accommodate them. I burst a tyre on the road, it is very easily done. If I’d burst another one, I would have had to be towed off the road and fork out an extortionate bill.
Tasmania, the island state to the south of Victoria, is somewhere that’s beauty is still not widely known about by backpackers. Sometimes known as the love child of Australia and New Zealand, there’s so much to explore on a Tasmania road trip that will leave you awe-struck. And best of all, it’s pretty cheap!
Accommodation: it’s entirely possible to free camp all the way around Tasmania; and actually, there aren’t that many hostels. You might want to stay in a hostel in Hobart to freshen up, so factor in around $30 for this. If you want to stay in Hobart for a few days, budget around $90 for accommodation. If you’d rather stay in paid-for campsites, factor in around $15 per night.
Transport: budget around $500 petrol for your Tasmania road trip. This can of course be split between however many of you are in the car. If you need to rent a car, factor in these costs as well.
Activities: You’ll need to pay $60 per car for a parks pass. This can obviously be split between whoever’s in the car. MONA is an essential museum to visit – it’s an art gallery with a big difference. Tickets cost $28. The other activity worth seeing is the Port Arthur convict site which costs $39. You can, of course, take boat trips and do other activities in Tasmania, but you’ll be able to see the highlights without. If you’re visiting Tasmania on a budget, just factor the $60 (split between you and your travel mates) for activities – if you want to see all the highlights, they’ll cost $127.
Food: you can obviously do a big shop and cook for yourself, in which case I’d say around $30 – $40 a week is enough. If you want to eat at a restaurant, budget between $10 and $20. Based on eating out twice a week and doing a food shop, food should set you back around $315 for three weeks.
Alcohol: Tasmania is another place that is best enjoyed sober, but if you do want to drink, the best/ cheapest bet is to buy whatever you want from the bottle’o. You know the drill. If you’re road tripping for 3 weeks and want to get two boxes of beer a week, that will work out to be $120.
Australia is a huge country, and unless you’re travelling from New Zealand, Papua New Guinea or Indonesia, it will take a while to get there. Becaues of this, I really wouldn’t recommend just spending 7 days in Australia – but if you do, it’s best to stick to one state, city or territory or take a couple of internal flights.
As this is primarily an overland travel blog – and I never took an internal flight in Australia – I can’t recommend internal flights too much, but Jetstar, Virgin Australia and Qantas all offer internal flights to the major cities for fairly reasonable prices.
If you’re spending 7 days in Melbourne , expect to spend $40-$200 per night on accommodation. Budget $30 per day if you’re eating 2 meals out, or $10 per day if you’re cooking at your accommodation – check out this review of lentils as anything for a great sustainable budget-friendly restaurant. Essential paid-for activities in Melbourne include the Melbourne museum and the Immigration museum – other attractions like the AMCI and Hoiser Lane are free.
From Melbourne, you can day trip to some of Victoria’s best national parks and towns. Budget around $114 for a Great Ocean Road tour , $130 to visit the Grampians National Park and $80 for a trip to Ballarat (taking the train), a historic goldrush city. Check out this guide to visiting Melbourne on a budget for more information.
Sydney has a similar budget, with hostel dorms costing a minimum of $35 and some being more like $50, and hotel rooms costing $100-$200 + per night. Budget a similar amount for eating – $10-$30 per day will enable you to eat fairly decent food. A lot of attractions in Sydney are free – but the Australian Museum costs $10 to enter. Tours from Sydney include the Hunter Valley Wine Region and the Blue Mountains .
If you want to see some of Australia’s northern highlights, you could see Darwin and Kakadu, and then fly to Alice Springs to see Uluru. This is a pretty costly option; accommodation in Darwin costs $30-$200 per night, a Kakadu tour will cost $540, flights from Darwin to Alice Springs cost at least $200, accommodation in both Darwin and Alice Springs costs anywhere from $30 – $200 per night and an Uluru tour from Alice costs $395.
Or you could explore the Cairns area, doing a Daintree rainforest tour (expect to pay around $150), dive the Great Barrier Reef for $150+ and take a Greyhound bus to Mission Beach (prices start at $25) and then to Townsville (for around $44) and then the ferry ($33) to Magnetic Island. Expect to pay between $20-$120 per night for accommodation in Far North Queensland, with meals out costing betwen $20 – $30 and beers being around $8.
If you only have 7 days in Australia, consider spending them in Tasmania. Basing yourself in Hobart will enable you to see the best parts of the island state. You can take tours to Mount Field , Cradle Mountain and Wineglass Bay and pay between $20 – $120 per night for accommodation. Meals in the city cost around $20 and beers are around $9.
As you can see by the huge, huge disparity of prices on this cost of travel in Australia guide, the spending money per day in Australia ranges hugely. Here’s what I reckon to be an average, based on my experience and my cool algorithm I’ve made up.
Note that all costs do not factor in vehicle hire costs and fuel is based on 2 people sharing. If you are taking the Greyhound buses, you may have to save some money on eating out and alcohol to reach this target:
Of course, these can be made drastically cheaper or more expensive, depending which way you want to swing it.
If you’re in Australia on a 7 day trip, and are using organized tours, expect to pay at least between $100 and $200 per day. If you’re sticking to cities and staying in hostels, this can be lowered, but trust me the best part of Australia is its nature.
So, after all of these numbers, I guess you’re wanting to know what the coast of an average trip to Australia is? I’m gonna be honest.. I have no idea. It depends on how long your trip is (my 1.5 year trip was obviously a lot more than a 7 day trip!), your travel style and where you go. I could pluck a random number from thin air, but it probably won’t help much.
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People from all over the world choose our Australia travel packages to capture the Aussie essence of this vast continent – a land of drastic contrasts and wonders. Travel to Australia and experience unique Australian wildlife , the rugged Outback terrain, or our magnificent beaches and dive sites along the world heritage Great Barrier Reef . And those are just the obvious choices when you think of a trip to Australia. Explore the icons and tour the Sydney Opera House, maybe cuddle a koala or hand-feed a kangaroo. There’s so much more to see and do, it would take a lifetime to experience it all. But with our Australia vacation packages, you can enjoy the very best of this magical land on your trip.
With stunning coasts boasting some of the world’s most famous and gorgeous beaches, you’ll find your own version of paradise in Australia.
Get the iconic beach experience in Sydney at Bondi Beach, or relax in literal paradise on the pure white sands of unspoiled Whitehaven Beach , rated as one of the best beaches of the South Pacific. Get the bright turquoise water and white sand beach experience in Western Australia, known for its picture-perfect beauty. Or pick up a board and learn to surf with one of Australia’s renowned surfing schools along the Gold Coast – no experience necessary!
Is your idea of the perfect vacation in Australia more about exploring some of the world’s best cities? Australia makes it easy – with some of the world’s best cities, you’ll discover the bustling city life of Australia’s iconic destinations.
See Sydney’s world famous attractions, including the Sydney Opera House and its scenic harbor. Get lost exploring the tight laneways of Melbourne , Australia’s capital of art, music and food. Want a true Australian experience? Head to Adelaide , considered the most Australian city in the country, and get a taste of its food and wine scene in the delightful Barossa Valley .
Australia is home to some of the world’s oldest and untouched landscapes. See the rich and diverse marine life of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef . Explore the oldest rainforest in the world, Daintree Rainforest, in Australia’s tropical state of Queensland. Or tour the award-winning Jenolan Caves , the oldest caves in world. One of only two Everglades environments on Earth is found in Australia – the pristine Noosa Everglades . Go on a road trip so great it’s in the very name – the Great Ocean Road .
To experience the best of Australia travel on your own schedule, our independent vacation packages give you the flexibility to tour at your own pace. If you prefer to have a native Australian guide your experience, take a look at one of our escorted Australia tours , filled with all the best places to visit in Australia . Or we can create your very own custom Australia travel package : just let us know what you’d like to do, and an About Australia travel agent will craft a package that’s just right for you. Newlyweds, take note: our friendly agents would love to help you plan a perfect honeymoon vacation to Australia.
Whether you dream of petting a kangaroo, hiking Australia’s famous national parks and rainforests, or diving into an underwater paradise, book your trip to Australia with the Aussie natives of About Australia , and before you know it, you’ll be on the Australia vacation of a lifetime! Also, check out our travel deals for special sales on our Australia vacations.
Here are our most frequently asked questions about our Australia packages.
How much does it cost to travel to Australia?
There is no average cost for a trip to Australia, because the total cost depends on so many factors. Flight and hotel prices vary by the time of year, and your style of travel (budget, 4-star or luxury) also affects the price of your vacation. Flights to Australia alone range between $800 – $1,200, and hotel stays with daily tours only add to the expenses. For a 9 day trip to Australia with comfortable hotels and flights included, expect to pay no less than $3,000. Look out for our special Australian vacation deals for sales on our most popular Australia vacations .
What is the best time of year to go?
Spring (September – November) or Fall (March – May) are some of the best times to visit Australia for their mild weather. These are also known as shoulder seasons, when the crowd rushes of peak tourism season start to dwindle and prices on flights and hotels are lowered.
Do I need a visa?
Tourist visas are required for travel entry into Australia. Tourist visas are also commonly referred to as a Travel Visa, Visitor Visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). We will process your Australian Visa (ETA) when you book your trip with us.
How many days do you need to see Australia?
We recommend at least a 2 week (14 days) vacation to see all Australia has to offer. This gives you enough time to travel through the popular cities and destinations of the east coast, such as Melbourne, Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef, as well as a venture into the Outback to see Uluru (Ayers Rock). This also gives you enough time to relax between each destination. It’s important to give yourself free time to explore Australia on your own.
To help prepare you to travel to Australia, we’ve compiled a list of our most helpful Australia travel tips and information.
Sales on Flights to Australia
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Australia?
Weather in Australia
Best Time to Travel to Australia
How to Plan a Trip to Australia
Do I Need Travel Insurance for a Trip to Australia?
Things to Know Before You Travel to Australia
Australian Currency
How Big is Australia?
Mistakes to Avoid When You Travel to Australia
What to Pack for a Trip to Australia
What’s it Like to Fly to Australia?
Best Australia Vacation Spots
Destinations: Cairns, Great Barrier Reef, Sydney
Activities: Beaches, Cruises, Great Barrier Reef, Historical Landmarks, Iconic Landmarks, Museums, Pubs & Clubs, Rest & Relaxation, Restaurants, Shopping, Short Walks, Sightseeing, Snorkeling,
Tour Type: Independent Travel
Class: 3 - 4 stars
Destinations: Australia – Brisbane, Cairns, Sydney
Activities: City Sights, Crocodiles & Reptiles, Cruises, Great Barrier Reef, Historical Landmarks, History,Kangaroos, Koalas, Snorkeling, Tourist Attractions, Wildlife, Wildlife Encounters
Destinations: Australia – Cairns, Ayers Rock & Sydney
Activities: Aboriginal Culture, Art, Birds, City Walking Tour, City Sights, Cruises, Great Barrier Reef, Historical Landmarks, History, Outback, Rainforest, Snorkeling, Tourist Attractions, Waterfalls, Wildlife
Destinations: Australia – Melbourne, Cairns, Great Barrier Reef, Sydney
Activities: Birds, City Sights, City Walking Tour, Cruises, Foodie, Great Barrier Reef, Historical Landmarks, Kangaroos, Koalas, Rainforest, Small Towns & Villages, Snorkeling, Wildlife
Destinations: Australia – Port Douglas, Ayers Rock & Sydney
Activities: Touring, Historical Landmarks, Native Culture, Restaurants, Local Markets, Wildlife, Beaches, Outback, Great Barrier Reef, Rainforest, Snorkeling, Wine, Food & Wine
Destinations: Australia – Melbourne, Port Douglas (Great Barrier Reef & Rainforest) and Sydney
Activities: Beaches, City Sights, City Walking Tour, Cruises, Foodie, Great Barrier Reef, Historical Landmarks, Local Flavor, Rest & Relaxation, Sailing, Small Towns & Villages, Snorkeling, Wildlife
Destinations: Australia – Sydney, Port Douglas, Ayers Rock & Melbourne
Activities: Aboriginal Culture, Beaches, City Sights, Educational, Great Barrier Reef, Historical Landmarks, Island Experiences, Natural Wonders, Outback, Rainforest, Sailing, Shopping, Short Walks, Snorkeling, Swimming, Tourist Attractions, Wildlife
Destinations: Australia – Cairns, Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, Alice Springs, Darwin, Sydney
Activities: Aboriginal Culture, Beaches, City Sights, Crocodiles & Reptiles, Cruises, Great Barrier Reef, Kangaroos, Koalas, Mountains, Natural Wonders, Nature, Rainforest, Scenic Lookouts, Small Towns & Villages, Snorkeling, Swimming, Wildlife in the Wild
Destinations: Australia – Melbourne, Brisbane, Port Douglas, Ayers Rock, Sydney
Activities: Aboriginal Culture, Beaches, Cruises, Great Barrier Reef, Historical Landmarks, History, Kangaroos, Koalas, Natural Wonders, Outback, Rainforest, Small Towns & Villages, Snorkeling, Tourist Attractions, Wildlife, Wildlife Encounters
Destinations: Australia – Melbourne, Great Ocean Road (Apollo Bay, Mt Gambier, Victor Harbor), Kangaroo Island, Adelaide, Port Douglas, Sydney
Activities: Aboriginal Culture, Beaches, Coastal, Coastal Drives, Coastal Lookouts, Educational, Foodie, Great Barrier Reef, Island Experiences, Kangaroos, Koalas, Local Flavor, Local Markets, Natural Wonders, Nature, Rainforest, Sailing, Scenic Lookouts, Short Walks, Small Towns & Villages, Snorkeling, Swimming, Wildlife, Wildlife in the Wild
Destinations: Australia – Launceston, Cradle Mountain, Freycinet, Hobart, Melbourne, Hamilton Island, Gold Coast, Sydney
Activities: Beaches, City Sights, Coastal, Great Barrier Reef, Historical Landmarks, Island Experiences, Kangaroos, Koalas, Mountains, Small Towns & Villages, Snorkeling, Swimming, Wildlife, Wildlife Encounters, Food & Wine
Destinations: Australia – Sydney, Melbourne, Alice Springs, Ayers Rock, Cairns, Gold Coast & Brisbane
Activities: Beaches, City Sights, Historical Landmarks, Wine Tour, Aboriginial Culture, Outback, Great Barrier Reef, Nature, Rainforest, Snorkeling, Theme Parks, Wildlife, Train Ride
Destinations: Australia – Melbourne, Great Ocean Road (Apollo Bay, Mt Gambier, Victor Harbor), Kangaroo Island, Adelaide, Ayers Rock, Port Douglas, Brisbane, Sydney
Activities: Art, Aboriginal Culture, Beaches, City Sights, City Walking Tour, Coastal Drives, Cruises, Great Barrier Reef, Historical Landmarks, Island Experiences, Kangaroos, Koalas, Local Flavor, Natural Wonders, Nature, Outback, Small Towns & Villages, Snorkeling, Wildlife, Wildlife in the Wild
Destinations: Australia – Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Perth, Margaret River, Perth, Gold Coast, Airlie Beach, Spirit of Queensland Rail Journey, Fraser Island, Sydney
Activities: Beaches, Caves, City Sights, Coastal, Cruises, Food & Wine, Great Barrier Reef, Island Experiences, Kangaroos, Koalas, Local Flavor, Natural Wonders, Nature, Scenic Lookouts, Short Walks, Snorkeling, Swimming, Trains, Wildlife in the Wild, Wine, Wine Tastings
Despite the urge to reduce travel costs, the average length of planned international trips has risen by two days.
The cost of living continues to affect travel plans, with eight out of 10 (83%) Australian travellers looking to reduce their travel costs in the next 12 months, according to a report commissioned by Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI).
Despite this, the desire to travel remains high. The report, called the Future of Travel 2024, also found that 91% of respondents planned to travel domestically or overseas in the next year.
The average international trip length desired has also risen from 14 days in 2023 to 16 days per trip in 2024 – however, this is balanced out by a reduction in the average number of trips that respondents plan to take.
Almost half of Aussies (47%) also said that they consider travel to be more important than other discretionary spending items, and one in five (21%) said that it was their top priority, or much more important to them than other discretionary spending.
Millennials (born 1981–96) are the most unwilling to forgo travel, with 17% claiming travel was their top priority for discretionary spending, compared with between 4–6% for other age demographics. Additionally, 90% of millennials stated that they were willing to make trade-offs to reduce the cost of travel in the next year.
Concerningly, the report also found that 2.4 million Australians were willing to cut costs by not buying travel insurance – with Generation Z (born 1997–2012) twice as likely to do so than baby boomers (born 1946–64).
This is despite a high level of travel disruption in 2023 – a year in which 2.8 million Australians faced problems due to a weather event. Travellers from New South Wales (NSW) in particular were four times as likely as Queenslanders to have experienced an adverse weather event before or during overseas travel (13% compared with 3%). This is despite a similar number of people travelling from both states.
SCTI also reported that the average claim cost for international travel in 2023 was A$1,369 (US$897), while the average claim for domestic travel was A$1,163.
SCTI also recently won two awards at the 2023 Canstar Travel Insurance Awards .
The monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI) indicator rose 3.4 per cent in the 12 months to January 2024, according to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
Michelle Marquardt, ABS head of prices statistics, said: "Annual inflation for the monthly CPI indicator was steady at 3.4 per cent and remains the lowest annual inflation since November 2021.”
The most significant contributors to the January annual increase were Housing (+4.6 per cent), Food and non-alcoholic beverages (+4.4 per cent), Alcohol and tobacco (+6.7 per cent) and Insurance and financial services (+8.2 per cent). Partially offsetting the annual increase is Recreation and culture (-1.7 per cent) primarily due to Holiday travel and accommodation (-7.1 per cent).
"CPI inflation is often impacted by items with volatile price changes like Automotive fuel, Fruit and vegetables, and Holiday travel. It can be helpful to exclude these items from the headline CPI to provide a view of underlying inflation.
“When excluding these volatile items from the monthly CPI indicator, the annual rise in January was 4.1 per cent, down from 4.2 per cent in December. Annual inflation when excluding volatile items has been declining since the peak of 7.2 per cent in December 2022,” Ms Marquardt said.
*Volatile items are Fruit and vegetables and Automotive fuel
Housing rose 4.6 per cent in the 12 months to January, down from 5.2 per cent in December. New dwelling prices rose 4.8 per cent over the year with builders passing through higher costs for labour and materials.
Rent prices rose 7.4 per cent in the 12 months to January, reflecting a tight rental market and low vacancy rates across the country.
Annual electricity prices rose 0.8 per cent in the 12 months to January 2024. The introduction of the Energy Bill Relief Fund rebates for eligible households from July 2023 has mostly offset electricity price rises from annual price reviews in July due to increases in wholesale prices.
“Excluding the rebates, Electricity prices would have increased 15.3 per cent in the 12 months to January 2024,” Ms Marquardt said.
“Annual inflation for Food and non-alcoholic beverages increased to 4.4 per cent in January, up from 4.0 per cent in December. Annual inflation remains elevated for food, apart from fresh food categories. Meat and seafood and Fruit and vegetables, for example, saw lower or negative annual inflation,” Ms Marquardt said.
Holiday travel and accommodation prices fell 7.1 per cent in the 12 months to January, following a 9.1 per cent annual fall in December. This was driven by falls in both domestic and international holiday travel.
Drivers in capital cities faced increases of 12.4% in 2023 while the average driver in regional areas was hit with a 13.7% rise
Australian households are under increasing budget pressure when it comes to car travel as transport costs balloon to three times the inflation rate.
The typical household’s transport costs rose by about 13% in 2023, outpacing the inflation rate of 4.1%.
Drivers in capital cities faced increases of 12.4% while the average driver in regional areas was hit with a 13.7% rise.
High upfront costs for buying new vehicles, higher car loan interest rates and increasing insurance premiums were behind the ballooning transport costs, according to the Australian Automobile Association’s Transport Affordability Index.
Sabrina Mo works as a building designer in Sydney’s inner west and travels around New South Wales for work, including the occasional trip interstate.
She is feeling the cost increases.
Car registration and insurance costs increased by more than $300 in 2023 compared with the previous year while her toll payments almost doubled.
“Everything is just too expensive,” Mo said.
With the uncertain nature of the work taking her to wherever the projects are, she has to keep her transport budget open.
“Sometimes I might have to be out of the office for a whole week and sometimes I’ll be in the office for two or three weeks,” she said. “I have to drive wherever the demand is.”
In 2022 she was paying $1.20 a litre for petrol at the bowser but since 2023 it has been at least $1.60.
So she has had to make changes elsewhere.
“For other things like my groceries [budget] ... I can manipulate it because I can be creative and start cooking really cheaply.”
Transport costs rose by a smaller 0.7% in the final quarter of 2023 but that did not offset large increases throughout the year, leading to transport affordability declining substantially.
In December 2022, the average city household spent 15.6% of its income on transport but that rose to 17% a year later.
The transport expenditure for households in the region rose from 14.4% of its income to 15.8%.
The decline in transport affordability is becoming a heavy burden on Australians feeling the cost-of-living pressures as the peak motoring body’s managing director Michael Bradley called on governments to consider these pressures when formulating policy.
“Transport is a significant and unavoidable expense for households and is also one of the key drivers of general inflation,” Bradley said.
In the December quarter, Canberra was the most affordable capital with the average household spending 14.8% of income on transport.
Hobart was the least affordable where 19.3% of an average household’s income went to transport.
A month’s rent is $1,280 cheaper in hobart than sydney. find out how else the cost of living differs between states..
In this guide
Food cost of living comparison, transport cost of living comparison, overall cost of living comparison, how to fight the increasing cost of living.
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Ever wondered how much money you could save by living in a different city to the one you're currently in? We've broken down the main costs of living in the major cities across Australia, from housing and food to transport, and provided estimates of how much you're likely to pay.
The most expensive place for housing in Australia is Sydney. Including utilities , it's 48.51% higher than the cost of Adelaide, which is the least priciest capital city.
Monthly rent in a 2 bedroom apartment* is likely to cost you around $671 more a month in Sydney than in Melbourne. That increases to $1,015 if you want to live in an expensive area. You can save a small amount when it comes to utilities, however. Gas, electricity and water are $23 cheaper a month in Sydney and broadband costs are around the same.
The cheapest major city for housing in Australia is Adelaide. Overall, it's 61.19% less expensive than in Sydney with rent being on average $1,338 cheaper a month. Almost all of the money you save is down to cheap rent though because utilities, Internet and other household goods in Adelaide are among the most expensive in Australia.
Note : The figures in this guide are based on the combined average of pricing found on 2 cost-of-living websites: Expatistan and Numbeo.
The most expensive major city for housing and utilities is Sydney. To give you a comparison of how much more it is, check out how it compares to the other big cities in Australia:
Canberra is the most expensive city for food in Australia. On average, it's 8% more expensive than Melbourne which comes in second place and 26% more expensive than Darwin, the least expensive capital for food costs.
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Sydney is also the most expensive city for transport. Public transport in the country's most populated city is more expensive than in Adelaide by almost double (48%) although you'll pay about the same for a taxi. There's just a 4c difference between fuel in Sydney and Melbourne but the same car, simply bought in different cities, is likely to cost you almost $2,000 more.
Darwin and Hobart are much cheaper, particularly when it comes to public transport. They're 68% and 58% cheaper than in Sydney. You can get around both cities via public transport for less than $100 a month, which puts Sydney's staggering $200 bill into perspective.
The table below gives you an idea of the differences between the overall costs of living in Australia's state capital cities. Sydney is still the most expensive city in Australia — you'll pay around a quarter more for living expenses in Sydney than if you lived in Darwin or Melbourne, and even more if you stayed in Adelaide or Hobart.
The overall costs of living in Adelaide and Hobart are very similar. According to Finder stats, Hobart is marginally the cheapest capital city to live in, followed closely by Adelaide.
With inflation on the rise and uncertainty in the economy, it's important to protect you recurring income. Income protection insurance can provide you with a monthly benefit as high as $30k if an injury or sickness were to prevent you from working at a point in time.
Gross annual income, percentage covered, we estimate that you could get ... (click calculate to see results).
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Figure out how much your everyday essentials such as groceries and bills are costing you, and how much you spend on extra things like eating out, entertainment purchases, and holidays/travel spending. Budgeting apps like the Finder app can help you do this, by letting you see all your money in one place. Once you have a rough idea of your spending habits, you can then figure out where there's room to cut back.
Making a few changes to how you do your usual grocery shopping can help you save a decent amount each week. Here's some of them:
If you have some extra cash laying around that isn't going towards bills, you can make your money grow even more.
Cristal Dyer is a travel writer at Finder. She has been writing about travel for over five years and has visited over 40 countries around the world. Cristal currently travels full-time, writing about her favourite cities and food finds, and she is always on the lookout for amazing flight deals to share.
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The relationship between the United States and Australia encompasses a wide range of economic interactions, with shipping playing a crucial role in bridging the distance for businesses and individuals alike. Whether it's for personal reasons, business transactions, or e-commerce, understanding the ins and outs of shipping from the US to Australia is essential for ensuring your items arrive safely and efficiently. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive guide to navigate through the complexities of international shipping, including regulations, carrier options, costs, and preparation tips to make your shipping experience as smooth as possible.
Shipping items internationally requires a good understanding of customs regulations to avoid unexpected delays or legal issues. Australia has specific customs regulations that importers must adhere to, including declaring goods and paying any applicable duties and taxes. It's crucial to be aware of prohibited and restricted items, such as certain foods, drugs, and weapons, to ensure your shipment complies with Australian laws. Necessary documentation typically includes a detailed invoice, a customs declaration form, and, for certain goods, special permits or certifications. Familiarizing yourself with these requirements can prevent your shipment from being held up at customs.
When shipping to Australia from the US, choosing the right carrier is key to balancing cost, speed, and reliability. Major carriers like USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL offer various services tailored to international shipping needs. USPS is often the most cost-effective option for smaller packages, while FedEx and UPS provide faster, more comprehensive services for larger shipments. DHL specializes in international shipping and may offer competitive rates and transit times for shipping to Australia. Each carrier has its own set of pros and cons, depending on shipment size, urgency, and budget. Comparing services and prices can help you select the best carrier for your needs.
The cost of shipping to Australia can vary widely based on several factors, including the size and weight of the package, the chosen service level (Standard, Economy, Express), and the carrier. Standard shipping options are more affordable but take longer, while express services expedite delivery at a higher cost. Additional services like tracking and insurance can also affect the overall price. It's important to use online calculators provided by carriers to estimate costs and transit times, keeping in mind that prices can range significantly. For example, shipping a 5-pound package might cost anywhere from $50 to $150, depending on the service level and carrier.
Proper preparation of your shipment is crucial for smooth customs clearance and safe delivery. Packaging should be sturdy and appropriate for the item's weight and fragility, with sufficient cushioning material to prevent damage during transit. Clearly labeling your package with the recipient's address and contact information, along with the necessary customs documentation, is essential. Ensuring your package is well-prepared can help avoid damages and delays.
Opting for tracking and insurance is highly recommended when shipping internationally. Tracking provides peace of mind and allows you to monitor your shipment's progress, while insurance protects against loss or damage. Most carriers offer these services at an additional cost, but they can be invaluable, especially for valuable or time-sensitive shipments.
Once your shipment arrives in Australia, it will undergo customs clearance, where duties, taxes, and any applicable charges will be assessed. Understanding the customs process can help manage expectations regarding delivery times. After clearance, the package will be handed over to local couriers for final delivery. Being aware of this process can assist in planning and tracking your shipment more effectively.
Shipping to Australia from the US can be done through various methods, each with its own set of advantages, costs, and delivery times. Understanding these options can help shippers choose the best method based on their specific needs, such as speed, budget, and the nature of the goods being sent.
Parcel Shipping: This is the most common method for sending small to medium-sized packages and includes services provided by carriers like USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL. Parcel shipping offers several service levels, from economy to express, catering to different urgency and budget requirements.
Freight Shipping: For larger shipments that cannot be sent as parcels, freight shipping is the preferred method. Freight shipping to Australia can be divided into:
Air Freight: Ideal for time-sensitive shipments, air freight is faster but more expensive than ocean freight. Typical delivery times range from 3 to 8 days, depending on the service level chosen. This option is suitable for high-value goods or items that need to be delivered quickly.
Ocean Freight: A cost-effective solution for large, heavy, or bulky shipments that do not require fast delivery. Ocean freight can be significantly cheaper than air freight but comes with longer transit times, typically between 20 to 40 days, depending on the origin and destination ports, service chosen, and customs clearance processes.
Courier Services: These are specialized services offered by companies like FedEx, UPS, and DHL for express shipments. Courier services provide door-to-door delivery with tracking and insurance options, making them suitable for important documents and high-value packages. Delivery times can be as quick as overnight to 2-5 days, depending on the chosen service level and specific requirements of the shipment.
Consolidated Shipping: An option that combines multiple shipments headed to the same destination into one container. This can be a more economical choice for shippers with smaller loads, as it allows them to share container space and costs with others. The delivery times for consolidated shipping vary but are generally aligned with standard ocean or air freight schedules.
The cost of shipping and the delivery time are influenced by several factors, including:
Type of Shipment: Air freight is typically more expensive than ocean freight but offers faster delivery.
Weight and Volume: Shipping costs are calculated based on the weight and size of the shipment, with larger and heavier items costing more to ship.
Distance: The further the destination, the higher the shipping cost and the longer the delivery time.
Customs and Duties: Any applicable customs duties and taxes can affect the overall cost and potentially delay delivery times if there are issues with customs clearance.
Service Level: Express services cost more but provide faster delivery compared to economy services.
Plan Ahead: To avoid rush charges, plan your shipment well in advance, especially for ocean freight, which has longer lead times.
Package Efficiently: Ensure your goods are packaged compactly and securely to reduce shipping costs and prevent damage.
Understand Incoterms: Familiarize yourself with international commercial terms (Incoterms) to understand the responsibilities of shippers and receivers.
Insurance: Always consider purchasing insurance for your freight to protect against loss or damage during transit.
With a comprehensive understanding of the different types of shipments and freight options available for shipping to Australia from the US, shippers can make informed decisions to optimize their shipping strategy, balancing cost, speed, and reliability. By considering the factors that affect shipping costs and delivery times and following best practices for freight shipping, businesses and individuals can ensure their shipments arrive safely and efficiently.
Reship, a package forwarding service, has revolutionized the way customers shop from the US and ship to Australia, making the process accessible, affordable, and convenient. By offering a solution that enables shoppers to purchase goods from US retailers that do not directly ship to Australia or that may have high international shipping rates, Reship provides a cost-effective and efficient alternative. Here’s how Reship facilitates this process and how it can significantly reduce shipping costs to as low as $20.
1. sign up and get a us address.
Upon registering with Reship , customers are provided with a US-based address. This address allows them to shop from US retailers as if they were based in the United States, expanding their shopping options to include stores that might not ship internationally.
Customers can shop online from their preferred US retailers and use the provided US address at checkout. The goods are then shipped to Reship's warehouse , bypassing the need for direct international shipping from the retailer.
One of the key benefits of using Reship is the ability to consolidate multiple purchases into a single shipment. This service can significantly reduce shipping costs by optimizing package size and weight. Additionally, Reship offers repackaging services to ensure items are securely packed in the most cost-effective manner.
Reship partners with various carriers, offering different shipping options to Australia. Customers can select from economy to express shipping based on their budget and how quickly they need their items. This flexibility allows for shipping costs to start as low as $20, depending on the package's size and weight and the selected shipping option.
Reship also assists with customs documentation, ensuring that all the necessary paperwork is correctly filled out to minimize delays during customs clearance. Their customer support can guide customers through the specifics of shipping to Australia, including any restrictions or prohibited items.
Access to US Retailers: Shop from stores that do not ship to Australia or offer better prices domestically within the US.
Cost Savings: Through package consolidation and selection of competitive shipping rates, customers can save on shipping costs.
Customization: Choose from various shipping options to match your budget and time requirements.
Ease of Use: Reship handles the logistics, from receiving and consolidating packages to preparing them for international shipment.
By leveraging Reship’s services , Australian customers can enjoy the vast selection and competitive prices of US online shopping with the added convenience of affordable and flexible shipping options. This service not only democratizes access to international goods but also introduces a cost-effective way to navigate the often expensive waters of global shipping.
Ensure all paperwork is accurate and complete.
Be aware of Australian holidays and workdays, as these can affect delivery times.
Use durable packaging and clearly label your shipment.
Consider the time of year, as peak seasons can impact transit times and costs.
Stay informed about any changes in customs regulations or carrier policies.
Shipping to Australia from the US can be a straightforward process with proper planning and understanding of the necessary steps. By choosing the right carrier, understanding shipping options and costs, and preparing your shipment correctly, you can ensure your items arrive safely and efficiently. Remember to factor in customs regulations and potential delays, and consider tracking and insurance for added security. With these tips and insights, you're well-equipped to navigate the complexities of international shipping, making the distance between the US and Australia seem a little shorter.
What are the most important customs regulations to know when shipping to australia.
Customs regulations in Australia require all imported goods to be declared. Prohibited items include certain foods, weapons, and drugs. All shipments must be accompanied by a completed customs form, and in some cases, additional permits or certifications may be required.
Consider the size and weight of your package, how quickly you need it to arrive, and your budget. Compare services and rates from major carriers like USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL, taking into account their delivery times, cost, and reliability.
Air freight is faster but typically more expensive, suitable for time-sensitive or high-value goods, with delivery times ranging from 3 to 8 days. Ocean freight is more cost-effective for larger, non-urgent shipments, with longer delivery times of 20 to 40 days.
To reduce costs, consider shipping via ocean freight if time allows, choose consolidated shipping options, and package your goods efficiently to minimize weight and size. Also, compare rates from different carriers and choose the most cost-effective service that meets your needs.
Australia prohibits the import of certain items without a permit, including but not limited to fresh or packaged foods, certain animal and plant products, weapons, and drugs. Always check the latest customs regulations before shipping.
While not mandatory, shipping insurance is highly recommended for international shipments to protect against loss or damage. Most carriers offer insurance at an additional cost.
Customs clearance times can vary, generally taking between 1 to 3 days. However, this can be longer if there are issues with the paperwork or if the shipment requires inspection.
Yes, most carriers offer tracking services for international shipments, allowing you to monitor your package's progress from pickup to delivery.
You'll need a completed customs declaration form, a commercial invoice detailing the shipment's contents and value, and possibly additional permits or certifications depending on the nature of the goods.
While there are no universal packaging requirements, it's important to ensure your items are securely packed in durable materials to withstand the journey. Fragile items should be clearly marked and provided with additional padding.
Contact the shipping carrier for assistance. If you purchased insurance, you might be eligible for compensation. Carriers typically have protocols for tracing lost shipments and can provide updates on delays.
Yes, you can ship personal effects, but they may be subject to inspection and customs duties depending on their value and quantity. It's advisable to check with the carrier or customs for specific requirements.
Shipping costs vary widely based on the shipping method (parcel, air freight, ocean freight), package size and weight, and the carrier. Costs can range from as low as $20 for small parcels via economy services to several hundred dollars for larger shipments or express delivery.
Delivery times vary by shipping method. Express shipping can take 2-5 days, standard air freight typically takes 5-10 days, and ocean freight can range from 20 to 40 days, depending on the specific service and origin/destination cities.
The cheapest shipping options are usually provided by USPS for parcels and ocean freight for larger shipments. Prices and availability of services can vary, so it's advisable to compare rates from multiple carriers.
USPS offers several international shipping options to Australia, with costs depending on the service chosen and package weight. For example, Priority Mail International can start at around $40 for a small package, but prices vary widely.
International shipping requires adherence to customs regulations, proper packaging, and accurate labeling. It's important to choose a reliable carrier and consider shipping times, costs, and any potential customs duties or taxes.
High shipping costs can be attributed to the distance between the two countries, fuel costs, carrier fees, and the need for international logistics and customs processing. Additionally, the size and weight of the package can significantly impact the price.
The "best" service depends on your needs. For speed, FedEx, UPS, and DHL offer express services. For cost-effectiveness on smaller parcels, USPS is competitive. For large shipments, consider freight services that match your timeline and budget.
UPS shipping costs to Australia depend on the package size, weight, and chosen service level. Prices can start at around $50 for UPS Worldwide Saver service for a small package but can increase significantly for larger shipments or faster delivery options.
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Australia on a budget in 10 days
Enjoy beautiful beaches, encounter koalas and explore coral reefs and rainforest on this wallet-friendly trip up the east coast.
By Lee Atkinson
You can’t see all of Australia in 10 days, but you can do a great deal on a budget. Hire a car and drive north from Sydney to the laid-back surf town of Byron Bay before discovering the famous Gold Coast . You'll finish up at Cairns for an unforgettable experience on the Great Barrier Reef .
What to expect
Manly ferry, Sydney Harbour, Sydney, New South Wales © Destination NSW
Seeing Sydney is easy on a budget because many of the city's best attractions are free, or cost just a few dollars. Start with a walk through the historic village, The Rocks , which sits on the harbour, right underneath the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. This area contains many narrow, cobblestone laneways and historic buildings made of local sandstone, including Sydney's oldest surviving pub, The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel . Stop at The Lord Nelson for a coffee or glass of local beer before walking to the ferry terminal at Circular Quay , about eight minutes away. Board the ferry for the scenic, 30-minute ride to Manly Beach , taking in sights such as the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Enjoy an affordable meal at Manly Wharf Hotel and stroll the famously beautiful beachfront before catching the return ferry back to Circular Quay. Next, walk over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and back. People spend hundreds of dollars climbing its famous arch, but walking across the bridge is free and offers another spectacular perspective. Finish off your day watching the sun set behind the bridge with a drink at Opera Bar , right beside the Opera House.
Scenic Cableway, Katoomba, Blue Mountains, New South Wales © Destination NSW
The World Heritage-listed wilderness of the Blue Mountains is an easy two-hour train ride from Sydney's Central Station. Get off at Katoomba and take the signposted 10-minute walk to Echo Point to see one of the most photographed landmarks in the country, the sandstone towers called the Three Sisters . From here, you can take a 45-minute walk that offers great views over the Jamison Valley or follow the longer, more challenging Giant Stairway trail down into the valley, along the base of the cliffs and back up again, over roughly three hours. Alternatively, take a ride on the world's steepest passenger railway and get a bird's eye view from either Scenic Cableway or the glass-floored Scenic Skyway . All three depart from Scenic World . Enjoy afternoon tea in one of Katoomba's beautiful Art Deco cafés. The Paragon turned 100 in 2016 and serves delicious handmade chocolates for just a few dollars. Or order a glass of bubbles in the opulent Champagne Charlies bar at the historic Carrington Hotel before boarding a train and heading back down the mountain to Sydney.
Emerald Beach, Coffs Coast, New South Wales © ST Surf Images
Australia is one the best countries in the world for road tripping . Hire a car and head north out of the city on the Pacific Highway, a route taken by many Sydneysiders on their annual summer pilgrimage to holiday towns such as Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay . This popular route is sometimes known as "the Legendary Pacific Coast". Over the next three days, you'll enjoy a relaxed, scenic drive to your ultimate destination, the Gold Coast , but your first stop is only two hours away. At the Australian Reptile Park , you can watch some of Australia's most venomous snakes and spiders being milked to produce antivenom, and meet native animals such as wombats, platypus and kangaroos. Next stop is the town of Port Macquarie , 2.5 hours north of the Reptile Park. Here, you can join a free tour of the world's first koala hospital , held daily at 3pm, before driving the final two hours to the town of Coffs Harbour. Gaze out at the horizon from one of the area's many coastal beaches, like Emerald Beach . It's not only surfers that come to enjoy the waves here, but also kangaroos. Coffs Harbour is a good spot to spend the night, with plenty of affordable holiday units and resorts.
Big Banana Fun Park, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales © Big Banana
It's a little known fact that there are more than 150 giant sculptures of "big things" across Australia, from supersized pineapples to enormous potatoes. At Coffs Harbour you'll see the sculpture that started the craze in 1964: the Big Banana . The Big Banana Fun Park is great for kids and the chocolate-covered frozen bananas on a stick are a treat. Spend the morning here, then drive to the seaside town of Yamba . This is the longest stretch of driving you'll do, a five-hour stint, but it's worth it. At Yamba, you can try some of the town's famous prawns at the Yamba Marina , where several seafood shops get prawns straight from the fishing boats. Walk off lunch on the short walking trail in nearby Iluka Nature Reserve , part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. From here it's around a 90-minute drive to famous Byron Bay , where there are holiday apartments and cabins close to the beach.
Cape Byron Lighthouse, Byron Bay, New South Wales © James Horan, Destination NSW
Cape Byron is the most easterly point on the Australian mainland, so get up early and head to the lighthouse to be one of the first in country to watch the sun rise. Then head to one of the town's many cafés for breakfast. The Pass Café , at the lighthouse end of the beach, is a locals' favourite. Spend a day relaxing on the beach, kayak with dolphins with Cape Byron Kayaks or take a surfing lesson with Mojosurf . If you are here between June and November join one of the local tour operators on a whale watching cruise.
Miami-North Burleigh Lookout, Gold Coast, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland
It’s just a one-hour drive from Byron to the Gold Coast , famous for its high rise towers, high energy theme parks and glitzy shopping malls. You don’t have to spend big to enjoy it, though, because the beaches are the main attraction. The Gold Coast can seem like one endless stretch of sand, but each beach offers something new. A few of the best are the beaches in Burleigh and Surfers Paradise . After you arrive in the Gold Coast, view it all is from the Skypoint Observation Deck of Q1, a building that stretches 230 metres (755 feet) into the sky. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed lunch or dinner at one of Australia's greatest traditions, the Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC), or surf club. These buildings are found at many of Australia's beaches and are the home of Australia's famous lifesavers. Many of them have onsite restaurants. Try Rainbow Bay SLSC, which overlooks one of the coast's most famous beaches. Or head to Currumbin Beach Vikings SLSC, which is so close to the ocean that you're almost sitting on top of the waves. Both places serve up meals such as salt and pepper squid and the fisherman’s basket, a selection of fresh, local seafood.
The Village Markets, Burleigh Heads, Queensland © The Village Markets
There’s so much to do in and around the Gold Coast that you could spend a week here and not be bored. But if you've only got a day you should hire a surfboard, kayak or stand-up paddle board from one of the many surf shops you'll find at most Gold Coast beaches. Alternatively, cool off in the Currumbin Rock Pools , a free natural swimming pool in a mountain creek in the Currumbin Valley, a 15-minute drive from Currumbin Beach. If it’s a weekend, visit one of the coast's many beachfront markets. The Village Markets at Burleigh Heads, on the first and third Sundays of the month, sell everything from emerging fashion and vintage treasures to art, jewellery, handmade skincare and home-cooked food. Tonight, you're catching an evening flight to Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef .
Snorkelling, Great Barrier Reef, Port Douglas, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland
The city of tropical Cairns is your gateway to the northern stretches of the spectacular Great Barrier Reef, found just off the beaches here. Many tour operators depart from the city's shores and motor out to the reef (about 90 minutes away), for a full day of snorkelling or diving at one of the reef's many coral cays and islands . If you've always wanted to try scuba diving this is a good place to do it, as there are lots of companies that offer introductory dive courses for underwater first-timers.
Cape Tribulation, Daintree National Park, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland
Spend your second day in Cairns exploring the oldest rainforest in the world. The Daintree is one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet and has survived more than 135 million years, earning it a World Heritage listing. Hire a car from Cairns city centre or airport and drive around three hours north to reach Cape Tribulation , or join one of the many 4WD or coach tours from Cairns. However you decide to go, getting there via the Captain Cook Highway is half the fun. The road hugs the coastline for most of the way and the views are magnificent. When you arrive at the Daintree Rainforest , don't miss Mossman Gorge, where a clear river tumbles over huge boulders in the middle of a butterfly-filled forest of palms and ferns. Learn about Aboriginal culture and traditional uses of the area's unique plants on a guided Dreamtime Walk from the Mossman Gorge Centre . The rainforest meets the sea at Cape Tribulation, where you can wander through the forest and mangroves without getting your feet wet on one of the three boardwalks in Daintree National Park.
Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Beach, Sydney, New South Wales © Destination NSW
Enjoy an early morning dip in the Lagoon, a huge, free, saltwater swimming pool on the Cairns Esplanade , before flying back to spend your last day in Sydney . Stretch your legs on the one-hour clifftop walk between Bronte and Bondi Beach . It's Sydney's most famous coastal walk, with one spectacular view unfolding after another the entire way. It becomes the world's largest free outdoor sculpture gallery in October and November during the annual Sculpture by the Sea exhibition. In winter you might be lucky enough to see whales from the many clifftop vantage points along the way. Follow the trail all the way to Bondi Icebergs , as famous for its scenic ocean pool, where hardy locals swim even in winter, as its fine dining clifftop restaurant overlooking the golden curve of Bondi Beach. It's one of Sydney's most iconic dining experiences, but head downstairs to the club bar and bistro, which serves food and drinks for half the price of the upmarket Icebergs Dining Room with exactly the same view. Now that’s a bargain.
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Budget And Invest
Posted: January 3, 2024 | Last updated: January 3, 2024
I travel internationally frequently, making trips between the United States and Australia three to four times a year. Occasionally, I also visit countries in Europe or Asia. You might assume I have a hefty budget for travel, but that’s not the case. Despite earning an average income, I prioritize travel because it’s my passion. To make it affordable, I opt for economy seating, utilize credit cards that earn frequent flyer miles, and choose budget airlines. While some of these airlines may not have stellar reputations, they consistently offer the most affordable options for my travel needs.
Known for its no-frills approach and generous baggage policy, Southwest often offers competitive fares. I’ve found their staff to be generally friendly. However, their no allocated seating system is unusual, and you won’t find their prices listed on any aggregator sites. Yet their website is worth checking out for price comparisons. They have routes throughout the USA, Mexico, Cuba, and the Caribbean.
A significant player in Europe, Ryanair provides many routes across the continent, making it a go-to for many budget travelers. For example, you can expect fares such as $93 round trip between London and Vienna during May or even cheaper in the colder months. If you have a little money to spare, upgrade to their upfront seats for quicker deplaning and more comfort.
I always think of EasyJet and Ryanair together when considering budget European airlines. EasyJet offers a wide range of destinations and frequently has enticing promotions. They fly all over Europe, Morocco, Egypt, and some Middle Eastern countries. You can grab a round trip flight between London and Cairo for under $300 or an $85 round trip fare between Athens and Milan.
Combining value with comfort on domestic routes, JetBlue offers amenities like free in-flight entertainment and complimentary snacks. While they’re well known for routes all across the Americas and the Caribbean, they also go directly to several destinations in the UK and Europe. Bad reviews of this airline tend to deal with how rude the staff is more than any other issue.
Serving various destinations across Asia, AirAsia is renowned for its frequent sales and extensive network. I’ve traveled between Australia and Asia on this airline. The fares are cheap enough to upgrade to a better seat for a low cost. If you’re traveling within Asia, you can find plenty of destinations for under $50 one way.
While known for its à la carte pricing model, Spirit can be a good option for those willing to forgo some amenities for a lower fare. They only travel within the US, and that’s good as they certainly don’t have the comfort level for lengthy international flying times. I do like that their seats don’t recline, as it means that I don’t end up with someone’s seat back in my face. This airline can be cost-effective, but sometimes the add-ons end up being more than you’d pay with another airline. It’s worth comparing prices.
Like Spirit, Frontier provides basic services at competitive prices, especially on domestic routes within the U.S. Based in Denver, Frontier Airlines operates over 100 A320 family aircraft and serves 120 destinations in the Americas. Known for its 43% fuel savings compared to other U.S. airlines, Frontier offers free flights for children under 14 through its Discount Den club.
Allegiant Airlines offers unique cost-saving measures by not flying to every city daily and allowing passengers to customize services. They provide discounted IconBundles, potentially saving travelers up to $114 per person. Additionally, while free random seating is available, passengers can choose specific seats for an extra fee, although seat availability together for families is not guaranteed.
Voted Europe’s Best Low-Cost Airline for six consecutive years, the airline prioritizes delivering the lowest fares alongside high comfort and service standards. The focus is on providing flexibility, allowing travelers to begin with a basic ticket and customize their journey by adding only the necessary services. They fly to over 100 destinations within Europe.
The airline strategically selects a blend of primary, secondary, and regional airports to achieve the lowest cost base in Central and Eastern Europe. This approach allows Hungarian airline Wizz Air to provide efficient customer service at competitive prices, which is evident in its fare structure. They also offer further discounts if you join their Discount Club.
Fancy a quick trip over the pond? Norse Atlantic flies directly from New York’s JFK to many European destinations. Let’s say you wanted to go from New York to London in May—you could fly into London’s Gatwick Airport and return the following weeks for $500. If you’re worried about the safety of any of these airlines, given the low cost, rest assured that all airlines flying into the USA are approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
A subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, Scoot offers affordable options for travelers primarily exploring Asia-Pacific destinations. However, they also fly to Greece and Australia, making an affordable journey between them. I recently flew with them one way from Athens to Melbourne for $400. The seats are surprisingly comfortable for a budget airline—even for someone on the tall side.
Known for its connections between North America and Europe, Iceland Air offers a unique stopover in Iceland and competitive fares for transatlantic travel. Icelandair serves as Iceland’s primary airline, providing routes from the USA to both Iceland and various European destinations. Travelers can include an Icelandair Stopover at no extra cost when flying with the airline. Round-trip flights from New York are available for under $400 for those interested in witnessing the Northern Lights.
If I need a cheap flight from Australia to the US, this is the one I use. I often find direct flights for around $200 from Sydney or Melbourne to Hawaii. From there, I can catch another budget airline to the mainland. Jetstar is a budget airline belonging to Australia’s Qantas Airlines. They operate all over Australia, Asia, and Hawaii.
A prominent European airline, Vueling provides affordable options across the continent and has become a preferred choice for many travelers seeking value. I used them while traveling in Spain and found them efficient and extremely cheap. In one case, I realized I wanted to change a booking date, but the change fee would cost more than the original booking. At $40, I decided to let it go and book a different flight. I also traveled with them from Barcelona to Athens for under $200 to make my Scoot connection to Australia.
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How much does it cost to travel to Australia? You should plan to spend around $163 (AU$250) per day on your vacation in Australia. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors. Past travelers have spent, on average for one day: $35 (AU$53) on meals; $30 (AU$46) on local transportation
You can visit Australia on any budget, from a $40 a night hostel in Cairns that's highly-rated on Booking to the spectacular $500 a night Four Seasons Sydney, which offers up the best views of the Sydney Opera House in the city. (Those prices are in AUD, by the way. 1 AUD is equal to 0.60 USD/EUR, or 0.53 GBP.)
Typical Costs in Australia. When you travel to Australia, your typical costs tend to look like this: Hostels: Hostels cost 25-30 AUD in smaller cities and 25-70 AUD per night in places like Sydney or Melbourne. As always, the smaller the dorm, the higher the cost. Private rooms are 80-150 AUD per night.
The average cost for 4 people to visit Australia for a week is $4,483-$10,863 ($640-$1,552 per day) Food, Travel, and Sightseeing: $168 to $345 per day for four people's daily expenses. Flights: $2,485 to $7,266 for economy. Lodging: $137 to $175 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms. or $162 to $197 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental.
The cost of traveling to Australia varies depending on factors like the time of year, type of accommodation, and activities. Generally, a basic daily budget for backpackers is $70-$100 AUD, mid-range travelers should budget $150-$250 AUD per day, and luxury travelers should expect to spend over $400 AUD per day.
Greyhound Australia. Premier. Greyhound also offers several bus passes. Their Whimit Passes range from 15-120 days of unlimited travel and are perfect for traveling around on a whim (hence the name). They come in 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120-day passes costing 349-729 AUD. To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud.
The cost of campervanning Australia varies heaps depending on your route, time frame, campervan model and of course the season - so the further in advance you book it the better. Expect to pay from $60AUD per day though, with rates much higher in the peak, summer season, around $110+ per day. For an epic Campervan deal in Australia click here.
Pacific / Australia /. Visitors to Australia usually spend between $63 and $443 per day on average for one person and $127 to $887 for two people. While this is a wide range, the average daily cost averages $165 (AU$250) per person. This average includes sightseeing, hotel, food, and local transportation expenses from other travelers.
Wine: From $5 AUD per bottle in a bottle shop, $10+ AUD per glass in a bar. Wine from a bottle shop is one of the few things in Australia that is surprisingly cheap. If you want, you can get a decent bottle of wine for $5 AUD! However, you're guaranteed to get a good drop if you go to $10-15 AUD.
You can expect to spend between A$160-A$250 a night, per couple, on accommodation in Australia. This will get you a private room with your own bathroom in a 3-4-star hotel or apartment rental. See latest hotel deals in Australia. Hostels are, of course, cheaper, but a private room with a shared bathroom will still cost around A$90 per night.
Popular day tours, like whale watching and guided walks, cost around AUD$100 to AUD$200. If you're booking high-demand activities - such as the Field of Light or swimming with whale sharks - secure your spot at least a month in advance to avoid disappointment.
Here is a list of your visa options for a trip to Australia : Tourist Visa (for 3 to 12 months) (eVisitor Visa Subclass 651 / Visitor Visa Subclass 600) : Free or 145$ for a 1st application then 365$ after a WHV. WHV (for 1 year) (Working Holiday Visa / Subclass 417 & 462) : 510$ (can be renewed under conditions)
A generous budget for four weeks of travel along the west coast would be around AU $4,000. Organized tours will be expensive, costing around AU $3,000 for a 10-day trip from Perth to Broome. The Pinnacles, north of Perth, Western Australia. Photo credit: Getty Images/John Crux Photography.
Discover Australia's sparkling beaches, friendly wildlife and natural wonders. There's never been a better time to travel to Australia, so come and say g'day! Travel to Australia - Australian Tourism Information - Tourism Australia
Great Barrier Reef Day Trip ( scuba dive taster) - $240 (£133) Skydive (15,000 feet) - $359 (£199) Cape Tribulation day trip - $189 (£105) If I had to pull out what the average backpacking Australia trip would include over a month I'd say you'd be hoping to include: Great Ocean Road Tour. Kayaking tour. Surf lesson.
2 Weeks in Australia Travel Costs. To help you out with an outline of the prices, you'll find a summary of the average costs of a two-week trip to Australia below. Is Australia Expensive; Expenses Estimated Daily Cost Estimated Total Cost; Average Airfare: $146: $1,199: Accommodation: $18-$200: $252-$2,800: Transportation: $0-$40: $0-$560: Food:
A one-week vacation in Australia costs an average of $2579 per person, including $1200 for your return flight. A solo traveler will spend an average of $197 per day on expenses. ... Accommodation is right on the heels of your flight tickets, also contributing significantly to your travel costs. Australia has a range of accommodation styles ...
How to travel Australia on a budget! A trip to Australia doesn't have to be expensive, we spent less than €100/150 AUD per day during our 6-week road trip along the East Coast. Detailed budget breakdown and information about the costs of renting a camper van, campsites, petrol, food & activities. #australia #roadtrip
Food: For food, budgeting around $30 per day allows for two purchased smaller meals and one larger meal out. If you're travelling for 8 weeks, that's $1680. Alcohol: drinking around 20 beers or glasses of wine out per week will cost $100-$160 - so anywhere between $600 - $1280 for the entire trip. If you get through a box of goon or ten beers per week bought from the bottle'o as well ...
How much does it cost to travel to Australia? There is no average cost for a trip to Australia, because the total cost depends on so many factors. Flight and hotel prices vary by the time of year, and your style of travel (budget, 4-star or luxury) also affects the price of your vacation. Flights to Australia alone range between $800 - $1,200 ...
*Product Disclaimer: Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services.Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable.
The cost of living continues to affect travel plans, with eight out of 10 (83%) Australian travellers looking to reduce their travel costs in the next 12 months, according to a report commissioned by Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI). Despite this, the desire to travel remains high.
Housing rose 4.6 per cent in the 12 months to January, down from 5.2 per cent in December. New dwelling prices rose 4.8 per cent over the year with builders passing through higher costs for labour and materials. Rent prices rose 7.4 per cent in the 12 months to January, reflecting a tight rental market and low vacancy rates across the country.
The typical household's transport costs rose by about 13% in 2023, outpacing the inflation rate of 4.1%, according to the Australian Automobile Association's Transport Affordability Index.
Australia's Working Holiday Maker program allows visitors aged under 30 (or 35 in certain cases) who hold a passport from a participating country to travel and work in Australia. Working holiday visas are valid for one year, or up to three years if you meet certain conditions. Find out more about working holiday visas here.
Sydney Melbourne Perth Brisbane Adelaide Hobart Darwin Canberra; Monthly rent for 85m2 furnished accommodation in an expensive area: $3,526: $2,511: $2,239: $2,680
The cost of shipping to Australia can vary widely based on several factors, including the size and weight of the package, the chosen service level (Standard, Economy, Express), and the carrier. Standard shipping options are more affordable but take longer, while express services expedite delivery at a higher cost.
Day 1: One perfect day in Sydney. Seeing Sydney is easy on a budget because many of the city's best attractions are free, or cost just a few dollars. Start with a walk through the historic village, The Rocks, which sits on the harbour, right underneath the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. This area contains many narrow, cobblestone laneways and ...
I travel internationally frequently, making trips between the United States and Australia three to four times a year. Occasionally, I also visit countries in Europe or Asia. You might assume I ...