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Home » Oceania » Australia » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Australia Travel Guide (Tips + Secrets • 2024)

When I ask you to think of Australia, what comes to mind? 

Do you dream of hanging out with bouncy kangaroos? Or, driving a van through the outback? Or, maybe your mind takes you to explore the big cities? Or, surfing epic waves along the coast?

All of this and more is possible when you embark on your adventure – backpacking in Australia . 

Whether you want to load up a van and hit the open roads or dive deep into the Great Barrier Reef; there is an Aussie backpacking itinerary that will suit every traveller. You just need to get clear on what you’re after and what this magical land down under has to offer you. 

Australia is absolutely HUGE (like seriously massive) and it is so diverse. From the bustling streets of Sydney to the wild outback; there is so much to see and do when backpacking down under. It can almost feel overwhelming! But I’m here to help you make sense of it all. 

In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know to make the most of your backpacking trip in Australia. From the best itineraries to the boring stuff like travel insurance – I’ve got you covered. 

So, without further ado – it’s time to head down under!

Why Go Backpacking in Australia?

Australia is a huge country with tons of things to do and see! From sailing around the Whitsunday Islands to diving in the Great Barrier Reef to road-tripping just about anywhere, Australia’s got it all.

It’s kinda a rite of passage for any backpacker to visit Australia. We all have that friend who went for a year’s working holiday and ended up staying forever… Why do you think that is?

The country itself is beautiful and there are so many different types of landscapes and wildlife, from croc-infested wetlands to sparse deserts and dense rainforests.

But more than that, Australia has some of the kindest, most welcoming, hilarious people. Anyone who visits Australia feels completely at ease.

There’s a relaxed vibe here. It can’t be described: you just have to go and find out for yourself.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Australia

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Below is a list of travel itineraries for backpacking Australia. They vary in length and cover the majority of the must-see places in Australia.

When I went backpacking Australia, I had this epic tour planned out. By the time I got to Byron Bay, I fell so madly in love with the people that I’d met in Australia’s amazing hostels that I had to drag myself away after already extending my stop twice. My only regret is planning too much.

I suggest really taking your time. If you like a place, stop for a while! You’ll be pushed for time – even with 3 months – and you’ll encounter places you won’t want to leave. But ride the waves, dude.

Here are some ideas for your itinerary. Just make sure to leave plenty of wiggle room for the enevitable.

10-Day Travel Itinerary for Australia: Tassie

This is the best itinerary for tackling a Tasmanian road trip! You can travel in either direction or pick a city — other than the capital city of Tasmania, Hobart — to begin your route.

Starting in Hobart, the capital of Tasmania. This is the capital city and it’s best known for its port which is the gateway to the Arctic. It’s not a very interesting city, to say the least, so you’ll only want to spend a day or so getting orientated before moving on to the next destination, Freycinet National Park .

What’s most notable about Freycinet is the pink granite peaks, the private bays, and white sand beaches. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some peaceful nature and wildlife.

Once you have had your fill of Freycinet, head over to St Helens , another big port city known for its deep-sea fishing. If you enjoy fishing, you’ll love it here. It’s also a good spot for diving enthusiasts, or if you just fancy lazing by the beach, the Bay of Fires is pretty epic.

Next up, is Devenport . This city is often overlooked by tourists as it’s just another port city, but because it’s so quiet you can really get a feel for Tasmanian culture.

Then, you’ll want to head to Cradle Mountain , the best place to visit in Tasmania for wildlife. Here you’ll see epic landscapes and also (if you’re lucky) Tasmanian devils, quolls, platypus, echidna, wombats, and the black currawong.

Once you’ve had enough nature, head over to Strahan , the gateway to the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and Franklin–Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.

Once you’ve had enough of Strahan, head back to Hobart to head home.

2-Week Travel Itinerary for Australia: Sydney to Adelaide

See the best of Australia’s metropolis cities on this 2-week itinerary around the southeast coast! You could start this itinerary off in either ofthe major cities, Sydney or Melbourne . But for the sake of ease, let’s say we’re starting in Sydney .

The fake capital of Australia is home to iconic landmarks: Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Spend a couple of days getting lost in Sydney and enjoying some of the epic beaches of New South Wales.

Then, make your way south towards Melbourne stopping for a visit to Canberra . Canberra is a huge city that is most known for its government offices. Personally, I don’t think you need more than a day, but the journey from Sydney to Melbourne is long so it’s a good place to rest up.

Departing from Melbourne, travel along the sublime Great Ocean Road and earn glimpses of the stunning 13 Apostles and the Great Otway. Ocean Road is simply breathtaking.

It takes a few days to drive Ocean Road to Adelaide, so I suggest breaking it up. I suggest stopping at Port Fairy for a night and getting some rest here – it’s a small seaside town with not much to see.

There’s also a really great fish and chip shop here called Morriss Road Fish Shop and I had a great bacon cheeseburger… It’s the little things.

After spending a few days traveling on this road you’ll get to Adelaide , Australia’s most relegated and unknown big city.

Adelaide is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered! This city is saturated with artists, amazing beaches, and tons of wine. After getting your fill here, grab a plane back to Sydney if you’re flying out from there.

3-Week Travel Itinerary for Australia: The East Coast

This is the best itinerary for tackling an East Coast Australia road trip! Starting in Sydney, you should spend at least 1-2 days exploring. Take a day trip out to see the Blue Mountains National Park and marvel at the Sydney Harbour Bridge (or climb it, if you’re not scared ).

After Sydney, it’s a long road to Byron Bay , the most famous beach in Australia and a hot spot for surfers. Personally, I found the beach itself crowded and underwhelming – but I met amazing people and spent nights laughing harder than I had in years.

I went on to the Gold Coast from here. I stayed with family and it was one of my favourite memories. But unless you are a passionate surfer or love corny beach towns, it’s not a must-see.

Brisbane is a city that doesn’t get enough hype. I loved Brisbane and I cannot explain why. It’s just got a cool vibe and the nearby Gold Coast is simply stunning. I suggest spending 2 days in Brisbane, but no one would blame you if you wanted to stay longer.

Next, don’t miss Noosa , a world-famous surfing destination. If you don’t like surfing, you can also go hiking in the Noosa National Park and rock climb some cliffs. I met up with people I previously met on the road here and it was well worth it.

Next, you’re going to head to Fraser Island . This unspoiled island is a nature reserve and it’s definitely worth staying actually on the island if you can afford it. You’ll also find plenty of yoga retreats in this area.

You can’t swim in the ocean, but I tell you, you won’t want to because you can see whales swimming in the ocean right from the shoreline! Make sure to check out the abandoned shipwreck too.

After 2 days on Fraser Island, head to the Whitsundays , my favourite spot on the East Coast. The Whitsunday islands are untouched nature reserves, and you can only access most beaches by boat. This is a ‘take only photographs, leave only footprints’ kind of beach.

The sand is pure white and the ocean is a dazzling blue. You’ll never see anything like it. You could even look at it from up in the clouds by taking a Whitsundays and Heart Reef 1 hour scenic flight . You’ll see the kaleidoscopic colours of the Great Barrier Reef.

Next up, is Townsville . The actual town isn’t that impressive, but people often stop here to go to Magnetic Island. It’s also a great place to stop if you like diving and want to explore the Great Barrier Reef.

Finally, you’ll get to Cairns . This is one of the coolest cities in Australia, in my opinion. It’s surrounded by rainforests and expansive beaches and has a cool surfer-town vibe. Spend a few days chilling out here and then fly back to Sydney.

3-Month Travel Itinerary for Australia: The Land Down Under

For this epic trip around Oz, this itinerary combines all you’ve seen above, with the addition of a few small-town stops. This route for backpacking Australia is pretty big. If you buy or rent a car , you’ll have complete freedom.

Let’s start by the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns . Make your way down, through Queensland. Surf the Gold Coast , dive Ningaloo Reef , trek Kakadu National Park ; all of this and more is possible on this epic road trip through Australia!

Follow the East Coast itinerary to Brisbane , down to Sydney, then backpacker favourite: Melbourne . 

Adelaide , the most underrated city in Australia is the gateway to the outback. Catch the iconic Ghan train to Darwin. The train takes 24 hours – but not in one hit.

It stops in Alice Springs , a large town in the middle of the red desert. Spend at least 3 days!

If you fall in love, how about spending a month backpacking route for Australia in the Outback ? Visit top destinations like the mighty Uluru , Kimberly , and the Nullarbor !

Then, on to Darwin . Many people don’t know that Darwin has the most incredible sunsets in Australia. This coastal city has a relaxed, hippy-ish vibe and is where to learn about aboriginal history (being the closest spot to Kakadu National Park).

Head over to Broome , a beach resort town, west of Darwin. I recommend at least 3 days in Broome, bathing on the beaches lining the Indian Ocean, including the 22 km-long, white sand beach, Cable Beach. Venture into the wilderness or go looking for dinosaur tracks at Gantheaume Point. There are definitely a lot of cool hostels in Broome and some damn fine food too. 

After that, enjoy Exmouth for pristine beaches and glistening blue waters. Here is the best place to explore the Ningaloo Marine Park – full of thriving coral reefs and migratory whale sharks.

Perth is a huge city with tons of character. It’s a great base to explore nearby beaches and wildlife. It’s worth spending a few days before flying back to Adelaide to finish your trip.

As you can imagine, a country as vast as Australia is full of unique places to visit. Some major cities are spangly and new, like Sydney and Melbourne. Others date back to aboriginal times and feel strikingly different.

There is so much to unpack and discover that I can give you my favourite places to go in Australia. But inevitably, you’ll discover your own hidden gems.

Let’s take a look at the absolute most beautiful places in Australia !

Backpacking the East Coast of Australia

The East Coast of Australia, consisting of the states of New South Wales and Queensland , is the most popular backpacking route in Australia! The East Coast has some of the best infrastructure, greatest thrills, and most beautiful places in Australia. There is so much to do and see on the East Coast of Australia that we at Broke Backpacker had to create a separate East Coast backpacking travel guide to do it justice.

No trip to Australia is complete without a stop in this amazing part of the country.

Traveling 1500 miles from the ever-enchanting Sydney to Cairns affords travelers insane opportunities for adventure. You’ll navigate ancient jungles, go walking in the bush, and (of course) visit Australia’s damn fine beaches.

Some other highlights of backpacking the East Coast of Australia include camping on Fraser Island , sailing among the picturesque Whitsunday Islands , and diving at the Great Barrier Reef .

My top highlight was probably feeling freer than I ever had in my life before. Meeting people who you immediately click with and change your plans for. It’s a remarkable experience.

Those interested in backpacking around this part of Australia should best refer to our informative guide where I break down heaps pertaining to New South Wales, Queensland, and everything in between. This includes the usual subjects like accommodation , itineraries , and how to get around .

Note that this guide will also cover locations that are not bound to the coast including the Atherton Tablelands and the Outback . You gotta see the desert while backpacking Australia even if you intend on being a beach bum 99% of the time.

• Sydney Backpacking Travel Guide
• Byron Bay Backpacking Travel Guide
• Sunshine Coast Backpacking Travel Guide
• Cairns Backpacking Travel Guide

Backpacking Canberra

Canberra is the federal capital of Australia and has a rap for being boring as hell. Famously, one former prime minister wouldn’t even live there when he was in office (though he denied any feeling any revulsion to the place). Truthfully, Canberra really isn’t that bad – so long as you know what you’re getting yourself into.

Canberra is a planned community that was designed to be a “garden city”. For this reason, Canberra has an extensive amount of parkland, national monuments, and cultural centers. At the center of everything is the large and artificial Lake Burley Griffin , which acts as a sort of reference point.

Around the lake are Canberra’s most prominent landmarks including both Parliament Houses (the old and new ones), the hallowed Australian War Memorial, and several museums and galleries. The National Museum of Australia, National Gallery, and National Portrait Gallery are all fine cultural centers worth visiting.

The best way to get around Canberra is by walking or biking. Thanks in part to abundant greenery and lack of traffic, these modes of getting around can be quite enjoyable.

Take note that Canberra is still quite spread out. So getting around on foot is a day’s work in itself.

If you find Canberra’s parklands insufficient, then there are plenty more pastoral sights outside of the city. Namadgi National Park is the northernmost section of the Australian Alps and has lots of outdoor activities. Mountain biking, in particular, is very popular around Namadgi and the highlands of Canberra.

Ultimately, Canberra is a fine city to visit for a weekend . Those backpacking around Australia should come here for the bucolic scenery and small-town lifestyle.

Backpacking Melbourne

Sydney’s greatest rival is the super-dynamic and culturally superior Melbourne . Melbourne is the former federal capital city and, for this reason, was once the center of all things Australian.

Melbourne lead the way in economics, art, sports, you name it, until Sydney rose and began to challenge it. Backpacking Melbourne is a fun and interesting experience.

Melbourne is a huge city with multiple districts. Most of the top things to do in Melbourne are found around the city center – in the CBD and Southbank . The CBD is buzzing constantly with action: here are some of the best cafes, bars, restaurants, and cultural sites in the city.

Flinders Street Station acts as the central nervous system of Melbourne and provides transport to any and all of the metropolitan area. Very close to the CBD are St. Paul’s Cathedral and Collins Street, the latter of which is very fucking cool.

Other notable attractions, like the Shrine of Remembrance, Queen Victoria Market, and Federation Square, are all a short walk away from the CBD.

Further outside of the city center are many more districts that make for great day trips. Carlton is a neighborhood rich with Italian heritage and home to the impressive Museum of Melbourne.

St Kilda is the premier beach hangout and has a nightlife that is comparable to the debaucherous King’s Cross in Sydney. Brighton is where you’ll find the iconic beach huts. Finally, Collingwood and Fitzroy are the favorite hipster hideouts in an already hipster-ass iced-coffee kinda city.

Backpacking Melbourne’s pedigree cannot be understated – this is one of the coolest places in Australia. You just have to visit this city and wander amongst its laneways all the while sampling as much music, food, and drink as possible. Be sure to check out some of the best festivals in Australia right here in Melbourne!

As far as sick hostels in Melbourne go, everyone has their opinions. But my favourite is The Village . Get ready to meet a cool bunch of dirtbags.

Backpacking Adelaide

Backpacking Adelaide has had a somewhat dull and undeserving reputation. Just hearing its nickname, “The City of Churches,” leads your mind to those dreary choir songs that make people wanna go meet Jesus sooner.

Although, this nickname was never a reference to the city’s piety. Conversely, as an ultra-liberal city, Adelaide was a place of many places of worship and ideologies. In lies Adelaide’s true self: a forward-thinking and supremely eclectic city.

Adelaide or Radelaide has quietly been one of the best cities in Australia. Here is an amazing art scene, a thriving nightlife, and some of the best city beaches in Australia.

Oh, and did I mention that this is the wine country of Australia? You can’t throw a boomerang and not hit a winery.

Adelaide is a planned city – the first founded by freemen – and is extremely easy to get around. You can easily walk across the whole city proper in an hour or two.

A tour of Adelaide should definitely include a walk around one of the surrounding parklands, with lovely sights like the River Torres and the Botanic Gardens. For the best food and drink, look around the likes of Rundle Street, South Hutt Street, and O’Connell Street .

Adelaide has some of the best city beaches in Australia. Glenelg is a glitzy beach with lots of clubs and cafes. The most beautiful beaches though are found in the southerly suburbs around Brighton , Port Noarlunga , and Aldinga .

There is wine country everywhere outside of Adelaide. The Clare Valley, McLaren Vale, and Barossa Valley are the most prestigious regions and, between the three of them, produce the majority of Australia’s wine.

Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills is another popular pastoral town, known more for its beer and German heritage.

You could fly, but I reckon a road trip from Melbourne is the best and most rewarding way to get here. Driving on the Great Ocean Road is a must-do while backpacking in Australia!

You’ll see several prominent landmarks and attractions while driving along the 150 miles of the Great Ocean Road. The most famous landmarks here are the Twelves Apostles : a group of limestone sea stacks that rise stunningly out of the ocean.

It’s one of many great Australian road trips . But this is one of my favourites.

Backpacking Kangaroo Island and the Yorke Peninsula

Within a day’s drive from Adelaide are the seaside getaways of the Yorke Peninsula , The Fleurieu Peninsula , and Kangaroo Island . Between the three areas, there are over six hundred miles of coastline. Most of these beaches are hardly visited or even touched by any sort of tourist.

The Yorke Peninsula is north of Adelaide. On a map, the Peninsula is easily recognizable due to its distinct shape – like a large tail, leg… or willy (to some people).

Economically, agriculture – not tourism – is the region’s leading enterprise. This has, for the most part, lead to the development of several small rural communities, which make for great backpacker bases.

Popular activities on the Yorke Peninsula include surfing, diving, fishing, and sampling the local produce. The surfing here, in particular, is some of the best in the state. Must-see locations on the Peninsula are Pondalowie Bay , Innes Australia National Park , and Berry Bay .

Kangaroo Island is a popular holiday spot for South Australians and is fairly unknown outside of the state. Located across from the Fleurieu Peninsula, it’s Australia’s third-largest island and an important refuge for several threatened ecosystems.

With highlands, rugged coastline, and a number of pristine beaches, the natural setting of Kangaroo Island is some of the prettiest in South Australia. Flinders Chase Park , Admirals Arch, and the Remarkable Rocks are among the most splendid sights on the islands – and shouldn’t be missed.

Arriving at Kangaroo Island is a simple matter of taking a short ferry from Cape Jervis . You’ll find most of the hostels in the largest settlement on the island, Kingscote. Local farm stays are becoming increasingly popular and many resemble hostels in their offerings.

Backpacking Uluru and Alice Springs

Smack dab in the “Red Center” of Australia, leagues away from any other city is Alice Springs . Never before has the term “ middle of fucking nowhere ” been more applicable.

Originally an outpost and then a military refuel base, it now serves as a hub for visiting the many desert wonders of the region, including the famous Uluru , previously known as Ayers Rock , changing it back to its aboriginal name.

Uluru is one of the most recognizable sights in Australia: it’s magnificent. Honestly, words don’t do this massive red rock justice – and the pictures do little either. Uluru is meant to be seen and felt in person; only then will you understand its significance.

As one local told me: “you stand there staring at (it) and then it begins to pulse. Uluru is the heartbeat of Australia.”

Thankfully, tourists cannot climb Uluru with the restrictions in place right now. The local Aboriginal peoples, who hold the mountain sacred, adamantly requested and (at least for now) the battle is won. Many white Australians are respecting these wishes and you should too; walking around the base of the rock is still plenty enough.

There are other options that are equally as mystical and amazing like the Uluru Stargazing Astro Tour . You’ll get special access to the national park at night with an epic, unfiltered view of the cosmos.

NOTE:  Uluru isn’t actually very near to Alice Springs. You’ll have to drive 6 hours to reach it… That’s Australia for you.

There are a number of other hikes around Alice Springs aside from Uluru. Kata Tjuta aka the Olgas and Kings Canyon are both definitely worth visiting as well.

The actual city isn’t much to write home about. Those expecting a weathered and rustic outpost in the middle of the harsh Outback will be upset to hear that the Springs is quite developed.

This infrastructure comes with a number of positives and negatives too including plenty of awesome Alice Springs hostels, swimming pools, and rampant racial tension, to name an unrelated few.

Backpacking Darwin

Darwin is the capital and largest city of the vast and empty Northern Territory . In an otherwise desolate place, Darwin exists today thanks to the booming mining industry and the need to create Asian shipping routes.

By most standards, Darwin is a small city with very few areas and attractions. The Wharf Precinct , Bicentennial Park , and/or one of the few museums may be worthwhile – but that’s about all.

If I’m being honest here, my impression of Darwin is that it serves primarily as a weekend getaway for pent-up miners and a base for backpackers trying to find work. The parties are, predictably, over the top in Darwin as both worker and traveler let loose.

It’s also the gateway to Kimberly , a vast and wild section of West Coast Australia that borders the Northern Territory. Many believe that this region contains the best of Australia’s Outback. With an area roughly equivalent to California and a huge array of natural sites, the Kimberly is a grand Australian adventure .

The best part about backpacking Darwin is that it’s very close to some of the Outback’s best locations. Should you journey into the bush, bring excessive amounts of sunscreen and bug repellent: you’ll be miserable without them.

Kakadu National Park is widely considered a staple of the region and is a must-visit for those backpacking Australia. Ubirr , Jim Jim Falls , and the Gunlom Plunge Pool are among the best of Kakadu. Also worth visiting is Litchfield National Park , which is a lovely place full of waterfalls and swimming holes to cool off in.

Further south is the small town of Katherine . Here is the impressive Katherine Gorge , located within the Nitmiluk National Park . Travelers can experience the gorge in many ways from chartering a boat to paddling in a kayak to hiking along the rim of Jatbula Trail. That final option is a 4-5 day one-way hike.

Backpacking Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef

Of a similar vein to Broome is the small community of Exmouth , located on the remote North West Cape . Here are some stunning beaches, awesomely rugged terrain, and, most importantly, one of the most precious ecosystems in Australia: the Ningaloo Reef .

Like Broome, Exmouth is a quiet beach town that swells in population during the four-month-long tourist season.

There are the usual civilized amenities here i.e. hotels, restaurants, bars, markets, etc. Exmouth also has a couple of city beaches – Town Beach and Mauritius Beach – but these are kind of lackluster. Eager backpackers ought to head directly to Cape Range and the Ningaloo Reef.

Cape Range National Park has some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia as well as some great hiking opportunities. All of the beaches of the Cape Range are seemingly perfect with brilliant white sand and crystal clear waters. Some superlative beaches include Turquoise Bay and Sandy Beach .

Further inland, Cape Range has some wonderful canyons and gorges that make for great trekking spots. For the most popular hiking trails in the area, visit Charlie Knife Canyon, Yardie Creek Gorge, and Mandu Mandu Gorge .

Should you go snorkeling around Cape Range, chances are that you’ll stumble upon the beginnings of the majestic Ningaloo Reef . It’s home to some amazing marine life including whale sharks!

The coolest part about this reef is that it’s very close to the mainland. Unlike the Great Barrier Reef, which is 150 miles from Cairns, you can literally swim (safely) to the Ningaloo Reef from the beach in some places i.e. Coral Bay .

Having a watercraft will, of course, unlock, more of the Ningaloo Reef. There are a number of sailing companies around Exmouth and Coral Bay, though a kayak may be sufficient enough.

Backpacking Perth

Perth ‘s primary claim to fame is that it’s considered one of (if not the most) isolated major cities in the world. It’s probably a good thing though; if Perth were any more accessible then it would definitely be overrun by now. With a booming economy, an extremely pleasant climate, and some of the most beautiful scenery in the whole country, Perth is certainly in the running for the best city to visit in Australia .

Aesthetically, Perth is great for backpacking since it’s a very attractive city. The CBD , with its ever-growing skyscrapers, rises elegantly on the banks of the Swan River. From King’s Park , which is very charming in its own right, the cityscape is totally laid out before you and yours to take in.

Inside the city itself, there are a few tourist sites of note. London Court is a lovely street built in Elizabethan fashion, complete with Tudor-style homes and coat-of-arms on the doors; obviously, not the most authentic of attractions… but pretty nonetheless.

Also worth seeing is the redeveloped Elizabeth Quay , which is Perth’s answer to the Sydney Harbor.

For all its beauty, Perth is worth a weekend visit but, to be honest, the best parts are outside of the city anyways. To the north is Northbridge where you’ll find the best eats and nightlife in Perth.

Adjacent Fremantle is a separate destination in its own right (see the section below) and definitely somewhere worth checking out. From Fremantle, you can book a ferry to the idyllic Rottnest Island for the chance to see the smiling quokkas and some gorgeous beaches.

Speaking of beaches, Perth has some of the best in Australia. Scarborough and Cottesloe are the city’s most famous strips of sand. Mullaloo Beach and Pinnaroo Point are lesser-known but absolutely breathtaking.

Backpacking Tasmania

Off mainland Australia, Tasmania is Australia’s forgotten state – a bit of an afterthought that only evokes images of Looney Toon characters or barbarous locals it would seem.

This is for the best though as backpacking Tasmania is a true hidden gem. This is a paradise, with fantastic landscapes, eccentric people, and some world-class cuisine. Tasmania is one of the best places in Australia and no one knows about it!

Tasmania is an island state, separated from the mainland by the Bass Strait. The majority of the population (40%) lives in the Greater Hobart precinct, which serves as the state’s capital city.

Despite its separation from the rest of mainland Australia, Hobart is an awesome city carrying a similar vibe to Melbourne. Though not as big, there’s a lively undercurrent of culture to be found in its art and music scenes.

There are also heaps of awesome backpacker hostels in Hobart, and you’ll definitely meet some like-minded travelers for the onward adventures in Tassie.

Other settlements of note include Launceston, Bicheno, and Strahan , among other communes of varying sizes. Outside of these urban areas, Tasmania is mostly pristine wilderness, a good chunk of which is protected parkland or heritage site.

Tasmania is home to some very diverse geography. The interior of the island is very rugged, composed of jagged mountains and thick rainforests.

The coastline doesn’t disappoint either as some stunning beaches and bays here easily rival those of the mainland. So varied and stunning are the landscapes that Tasmania is often referred to as Little New Zealand.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Australia

There’s a lot of nowhere in Australia, which means that there are lots of opportunities to get off the beaten path. With the proper vehicle and supplies, you’ll be able to make your own expeditions into the lesser-visited places of Australia.

Some off-the-beaten-track locations you must explore are Oz’s most mental national parks : the Mungo National Park , known for its alien rock formations and large dunes, and Lake Eyre , the largest and lowest lake in Australia that changes color depending on the water level and salinity.

The Flinders Ranges are home to the Wilpena Pound , a huge, natural amphitheater that has to be seen to be believed. Coober Pedy is an old mining town that is famous for its swellings called “dugouts.”

The Karijini National Park is where you’ll find elegant gorges and breathtakingly vibrant rock, which makes this one of the most beautiful places in the outback. Speaking of Outback, you’ve heard of Uluru, but Mount Augustus is the real competitor. It’s larger but less prominent.

So as you can see, there are a ton of places to visit outside of the conventional. So get ready for some of the longest, bumpiest rides of your life as you go exploring the Australian nowhere!

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

There are so many things to do in Australia that narrowing it down to just ten of the best was no easy task. However, when you visit Australia, these are my top recommendations to leave yourself with some amazing memories to carry with you forever.

1. Visit Australia’s Outback

No backpacking trip to Australia would really be authentic without visiting the Outback. This is one of the harshest, most inhospitable landscapes in the world, and one of the defining features of the nation.

Some of the most beautiful national parks in Australia, like Karijini, are only to be found in the Red Center as well. Rent a 4×4 and go mobbing in the desert!

2. Witness Uluru

Uluru is a true natural wonder and has to be seen in person. Make the long journey to this shrine and feel the power that it emits.

I also recommend taking a camping trip and spending a night sleeping under the stars in a swag bag. Uluru is one of the few places that is not spoilt by city lights and so you’ll see the best night sky of your life.

3. Go Sailing in the Whitsunday Islands

The Whitsunday Islands are absolutely drop-dead gorgeous and are one of the best places in Australia! Sail around the islands and be sure to visit Whitehaven Beach, which is one of the finest in the world.

Airlie Beach is a popular beach and gateway to the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef. I personally struggled to drag myself away from here. It was one of the biggest, happiest memories of my life, smoking a doobie, looking out at the ocean, knowing I’m going to quit my job and travel full-time as soon as I got home.

4. Drink wine in South Australia

Yeeeeahhhh boooooyyy. South Australia is the wine country of Australia and produces some of the country’s most highly regarded vintages.

Visit one of the many wine regions surrounding Adelaide and try as much as you can! Spit or swallow… up to you.

5. Dive in the Great Barrier Reef or Ningaloo Reef

Both the Great Barrier Reef and Ningaloo Reef are amongst the most impressive ecosystems known to man. Diving in either one is sure to be an amazing experience. Enter an alien, underwater world, and be sure to have a waterproof camera !

6. Go surfing

Surfing is one of Australia’s favorite pastimes and is practically the national sport! Anyone planning on backpacking around Australia simply has to try and get on board (see what I did there?). There’s a beach for every skill level and plenty of Aussies who love to show you the ropes.

7. Road trip!

Exploring Australia by car is the truest way to really experience the country. With your own set of wheels, you can go wherever you want and sleep wherever you want. As they say in Australia, “ There’s a lot of fuck-all out there ” so go and find it!

I suggest starting with a road trip around Queensland . It’s arguably the most popular route in Australia.

It’s a huge country, so you might not get to see all of it by road trip. Just heading from north to south will take weeks. Choose an area you want to explore the most, whether it’s an east or west-coast road trip, and go and explore!

8. Discover Tasmania

Tasmania is one of the most beautiful places in Australia! This island is far more rugged than the mainland and is full of spectacular mountains, forests, and coastline. Journey here to see a different side of Australia.

9. Hike the beautiful national parks!

There are many incredible national parks around the country. The most notable are the Blue Mountains, Nambung National Park, Karijini National Park, and Kakadu National Park.

Located to the west of Sydney, the New South Wales darling is the epic Blue Mountains National Park. The town of Katoomba is the gateway to the park, and home to the world-famous Echo Point lookout offers panoramic views of Jamison Valley.

Here you get the best view of the iconic rock formation of the Three Sisters, a sacred Aboriginal site. As well as being an area of outstanding natural beauty, the park has several bushland trails and incredible wildlife.

The Nambung National Park is most well known for its impressive rock formations in the desert, plus there are some stunning beaches near Kangaroo Point and Hangover Bay.

Karijini National Park is a vast wilderness in Western Australia, well known for its Weano Gorge, accessible by a hiking trail that leads to Handrail Pool. Kakadu National Park is a huge wetland in Northern Australia and the best place to see crocs in their natural habitat.

10. Have a fling… or a few… 😉

Hey, Australia is FULL of young, sexy, liberated backpackers, trying to figure themselves out. The chances of you stumbling across other backpackers that you think are mighty fine is very high. Sex in hostels in Australia is inevitable!

Be a slag… do whatever you want. Be free, just please be safe too.

Australia is absolutely chalked full of backpacker lodges and hostels ! These are among the best and most entertaining hostels in the entire world. People from every corner of the globe flock to Australia to party and have one of the grandest adventures of their life, be it in a city, on a beach, or in the Outback.

Australian hostels are of very high quality and are often the recipients of numerous backpacking awards. Most organize lots of events from pub crawls to game nights to communal dinners. There are very few hostels in Australia that I can really speak poorly of (feel free to ask me though).

Couchsurfing is, of course, a very legitimate means of staying in Australian cities and is a great way to save some cash. Australians are an extremely welcoming bunch and have no problem inviting you over to their place for chicken parmy and a beer (or ten).

At the end of the day though, the best way to sleep in Australia is by camping, either with a quality backpacking tent or in a campervan. Australia has some of the most pristine and wonderful nature in the world and it needs to be experienced in the purest way possible. There’s nothing like sitting next to a fire in the bush and sleeping under the stars.

The Best Places to Stay in Australia

Not sure where to stay in Australia? Here are a few of my top recommendations!

Traveling to Australia on a budget is doable – if you know a couple of frugal tricks. If you can stick to a regiment, a comfortable backpacker budget in Australia should be around $60-$80 per day . Doing so means sticking to hostels, cooking at home, and drinking goon , amongst other things.

A bunk bed will cost between $15-$30 per night depending on where you are. More popular destinations, like Melbourne and Sydney, are more expensive while most of Queensland and parts of Western Australia will be cheaper. Naturally, solo travel in Australia is often more expensive than when you pick up a travel buddy.

Australian restaurants are usually pretty expensive with the average meal costing around $10-$25 . I strongly advise those that are backpacking around Australia to limit how much they dine out – the food is overpriced as fuck. You’ll save a heap of money if you cook for yourself.

Partying is EXTREMELY expensive in Australia . Seriously, there’s a reason Australians do all the drugs when they travel: they’re too fucking expensive back home.

Cigarette prices are ridiculous and a beer is $7 AUD minimum . If you must drink, buy the cheap and ubiquitous boxed wines AKA goon – these will be your saving grace.

If you plan on participating in any of the classic Australian adventures, like diving at the Great Barrier Reef or sailing in the Whitsunday Islands, you will definitely be paying a pretty penny. The only thing to do is just save up as much as possible and then pick one or two of your favorites to participate in.

A Daily Budget in Australia

So, how much is Australia going to set you back? Here’s a rough estimate…

Money in Australia

The official currency of Australia is the Australian dollar or AUD. As of June 2023, the official conversion rate for the Australian dollar is 1 USD = 1.48 AUD . The value of the Australian dollar has fallen in recent years due to economic changes but the country is still prosperous and expensive by international standards.

ATMs are widely available and pulling out cash via a foreign card is an effortless affair. Most ATMs will charge a withdrawal fee on top of whatever international charges your bank imposes. Best to take out lots of cash at once to avoid paying too much in fees.

If you’re working in Australia, it’s very easy to set up a bank account. All of the major banking corporations – Commonwealth, Westpac, NAB, ANZ – have basic savings accounts that are very convenient and easy to use for those who are on a working holiday visa in Australia.

If you had a job while backpacking Australia, definitely make sure to do your taxes at the end of the fiscal year! Backpackers are usually entitled to a huge tax return (for reasons that are hard to explain) and it would be a real shame to walk away from a big payday.

For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends Wise – The Artist Formerly Known as Transferwise! Our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods, Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks.

But the real question is… is it better than Western Union? Yes, it most certainly is.

Travel Tips – Australia on a Budget

Australia is a country that can really eat into your wallet if you’re not careful, so make sure to follow these travel tips to save money and have even more fun.

• Camp : With plenty of gorgeous spots, Australia is a great place to have the right camping gear . You can also ask to pitch a tent in people’s yards. If you’re feeling really adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a backpacking hammock.
• Cook your own food:  If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food. I recommend bringing a  portable backpacking stove .
• Book your transportation early:  Both plane and train tickets are much cheaper if you purchase them in advance. This rule does not apply to buses, which you can often book within the day or even an hour.
• Couchsurf: Australians are awesome, but always check the reviews anyhow. Couchsurfing to make some real friendships and see this country from the perspective of locals. You can even ask (new) friends, or even friends of friends. This paid off for me plenty.
• Pack a travel water bottle : Save money – and the planet – every day!

Why You Should Travel to Australia with a Water Bottle

Plastic is a problem. It washes up on Australia’s most pristine beaches and wraps itself around its fragile ecosystems.

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you can be part of the solution and not the problem. Being a responsible traveller is getting easier and easier with the support of our incredible network of inspiring individuals and other backpackers.

Plus, buying overpriced bottles of water from supermarkets isn’t fun either. Travel with a filtered water bottle instead, save money and potentially another lovely, little dolphin’s life.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Australia has two distinct climate zones: a tropical one in the north and a more temperate one in the south. There are several microclimates found in each of these zones but, broadly speaking, they are still subject to the same sort of seasons.

Note that Australia is in the southern hemisphere. Australian summer ist from December-February and its winters are from June-August .

The south of Australia – New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and (south) Western Australia – has a more temperate climate and usually has four seasons. In some places, like Perth and Sydney, these seasons can appear very similar to one another as the weather is pleasant year-round.

In other areas, like Melbourne or Tasmania, the weather is more unpredictable and even harsh at times, especially in the mountains. Melbourne famously gets “four seasons in one day.”

The north of Australia, including northern Queensland, Australia’s Northern Territory, and (north) Western Australia tropical and only has two distinct seasons: hot, wet summer and cool, dry winter.

Australian summers – referred to as the big wet – can be oppressively hot and some places receive biblical amounts of rainfall. The deadly box jellyfish also comes closer ashore in the summer resulting in near-complete beach closures.

Summer really isn’t a good time to visit the northern Australia. It’s much better to visit in the winter – referred to as the big dry – when it’s slightly cooler, drier, and devoid of deadly jellies.

Since the north is almost always visited in the winter, demand is very high during this time. Prices will be much higher because of the short supply so be sure to keep this in mind while planning your itinerary.

What to Pack for Australia

If you’re not careful, Australia’s wilderness will smack ya to next Monday. Get your packing for Australia right! On every adventure, there are six things I never go traveling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Australia has a reputation for being full of deadly creatures that are out to get you at every turn: killer snakes, spiders, crocodiles, jellyfish, hell even kangaroos. It’s important to remember though that death at the hands of these animals is very sensationalized. Statistics don’t back up the hysteria.

Believe it or not, the common bee and wasp, not spiders, are actually the number one killers in Australia. The truth is: Australia and its wildlife aren’t nearly as terrifying as you think.

That being said, it is extremely important to take all cautionary advice with the utmost seriousness. If a sign or a local says that an area is dangerous, either because of sharks or crocs or whatever, then, for fuck’s sake, listen to them!

Australians have become day-to-day experts on what can kill you and how to avoid it. At the end of the day, just follow this easy advice: if you don’t see Australians doing it, then don’t do it.

The elements really are your biggest concern while backpacking in Australia. Not to scare you, but drowning is a risk in Australia as ocean currents are very strong.

The water may seem calm but, get caught in a wild rip, and you can quickly get submerged or pushed out to sea. Swim in designated areas and check signs for ocean conditions.

As mentioned before, heat is a major problem in Australia. Temperatures can soar to unthinkable heights and atmospheric radiation is a serious threat here. Forest fires caused by dry conditions are a serious problem as well.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Australia

Australians LOVE to party. At least once, we’ve seen a group of Australians getting blindly drunk and looking to score.

Some observers may have even thought to themselves: “how the hell are they still doing this?” or “for what possible reason would you do that?” Well, there is one, I assure you.

Drugs and alcohol in Australia are astronomically expensive. On average, a pint of beer is $7-$8 and a spirit is a couple of bucks more maybe. Cigarettes cost somewhere in the late teens; and don’t even get me started on the drugs.

These ridiculous prices are why you see Australians partying all the time outside of their country: everything is just so much cheaper abroad and so they go crazy.

Prices are damned though, Australians still like to have a good time in their native land. Many go out in groups and buy rounds or shouts for one another.

If you plan on drinking with the locals while backpacking Australia, it’s very important to keep up with the shouts. Drinking a beer that someone has bought for you and not contributing to the shout is a dick move.

Be careful when drinking and driving as well. Australia has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drunk driving and any BAC over 0.05% will be met with harsh punishment. Random checkpoints are commonly set up at all times of the day to pull over drivers and check their sobriety.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Australia

Traveling without insurance is never a good idea. It’s extremely risky. Check out good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Getting into and around Australia can be a long and arduous affair. It is a good opportunity to make the most of a layover – many of them being in the Middle East or Asia.

Traveling to Australia from the USA is a 13-hour plane ride and it seems that every Australian city is at least 8 hours drive away from each other; Perth to Adelaide is a 1.5-day journey by car. Should you decide to travel to Australia, you’ll be staring at the back of the seat or an empty road for a while. But the moments in between make the whole trip worthwhile.

Entry Requirements for Australia

There are several different types of tourist visas available to those who wish to go backpacking in Australia. The three primary tourist visa types are:

• Visitor visa (subclass 600)
• Electronic Travel Authority Visa (ETA) (subclass 601)
• eVisitor (subclass 651)

The 601 and 651 visas essentially function in the same way albeit with different application processes. The 600 is for those who want to stay in Australia for longer than 3 months at a time and for those who don’t qualify for either a 601 or 651. The grand majority of nationalities can apply for all of these visas online.

The ETA (601) and eVisitors (651) are the simplest and easiest visas to acquire. Both enable unlimited entries into Australia within the span of a year – the duration of stay cannot exceed 3 months at a time.

The biggest difference between these two types of visas is that they are only available to specific countries. Americans and Canadians, in addition to several other nations, must apply for an ETA. British, as well as most European citizens, must apply for an eVisitors visa.

The Visitor visa (600) is the most expensive of Australian visas but can grant the most time. Applicants can apply for a 3, 6, or 12-month duration at rates that vary from AUD140 to AUD1020. For any nation that doesn’t qualify for a 601 or 651, the 600 visa is the only means of entering Australia.

If you’re thinking of doing a working holiday in Australia , you’ll need to apply for a 462 or subclass 417 visa.

Upon arriving at customs, your visa will be checked and you’ll be subject to search. Australian customs takes declared items very seriously – so you must do so. Also, note that criminal offenses and felonies may bar you from entering the country.

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There are two ways of traveling in Australia and both offer widely different experiences. The first is by public transport i.e buses, trains, and planes and the other is with your own vehicle in the form of a rental car or campervan. The latter option is the vastly superior method.

Using public transport to travel outside and in between the major cities can be a tedious affair. Traveling by bus can be convenient and cheap so long as you’re staying on the East Coast where there are frequent stops.

Bus travel in the bush, which pretty much includes all of South Australia, Australia’s Northern Territory, and Western Australia, can be long and, in turn, pricey.

Greyhound does offer hop-on-hop-off travel passes that can certainly be convenient. Check the rates at the official website and weigh the pros and cons of purchasing a pass.

Train travel is possible but this is a more luxurious form of travel i.e. more expensive. Taking the train in Australia is an experience in itself though and some long-distance routes, like the Ghan Train , can be very rewarding.

Flying is the primary means of getting around Australia due in part to the country’s size. Flights are relatively cheap and actually quite convenient.

Traveling by hitchhiking is a common practice in Australia. Make sure to follow the usual rules of the trade though and, as always, use common sense. Be wary of hitchhiking in the Outback – cars may be far and few in between and you could be in real trouble if you’re stuck out there in the baking sun.

Traveling by Campervan in Australia

By far the best way to get around Australia is by having your own vehicle. There are many car rental companies in Australia that offer long-term contracts. Each has a wide variety of vehicle types from sedans to 4x4s to campervans.

Campervans are definitely the most popular way of getting around Australia as they provide both transport and lodging at the same time. Living out of a campervan can be convenient, fun, and cheaper than conventional travel. By having the ability to sleep anywhere you want, you’ll save money and get more out of your Australian adventure.

Thanks to the plethora of rental companies available, it’s a breeze to hire a campervan while backpacking Australia. Most offer good rates, especially for longer periods of time.

I recommend going with JUCY Campers if you plan on renting a campervan in Australia. Make sure to check the contract though – many rental companies impose certain restrictions on going offroading and over a certain amount of miles per day and charge extra fees for not following these parameters.

If you plan on staying in Australia for a long time (more than 6 months) try buying your own campervan. Doing this will allow you more flexibility and, if you took care of the car, the chance to sell it when you’re done. You can find ads for used campers in many hostels and on online boards like gumtree.com.au.

When buying a camper, be sure to take the vehicle to the shop to get it checked before actually committing. Most auto shops are used to this kind of request and will charge a competitive fee.

Onwards Travel from Australia

Being the world’s largest island and a continent that consists of a single nation, there are not too many ways to get out of the country by land or sea. Luckily, Australia benefits from some very, very cheap international airline routes.

You can continue your backpacking journey in Oceania , but the cheapest and most convenient flights out of Australia are usually bound for Asian destinations. Budget Asian airlines, like AirAsia, in addition to Australia’s own budget airlines – Jetstar and Tiger – make traveling to Asia a breeze.

From any of the major Australian cities, and for as low as $100 sometimes, you can carry on your backpacking adventure in the likes of Indonesia, Japan, India, the Philippines, and even Pakistan! Seriously, you can get just about anywhere in Asia from Australia and for a great price.

Since AirAsia is so ridiculously cheap and popular, you’ll most likely end up connecting in its place of origin: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Malaysia is a pretty cool spot and backpacking around the peninsula or on the island of Borneo is definitely worth trying.

Otherwise, you can get just about anywhere from Kuala Lumpur. If you aren’t connecting in KL, then you’ll most likely end up in Bangkok, Thailand, which certainly has its own reputation.

Asia aside, you can, of course, head across the Tasman to start backpacking in New Zealand . Backpacking around New Zealand is a very similar experience to Australia in that you’ll be paying the same prices and most likely living out of a campervan. Unlike Australia though, New Zealand has a wildly diverse geography and is much more temperate, both in terms of climate and native personality.

If you really want to go somewhere different, why not consider the Soloman Islands ?!

As a popular gap year destination , most backpackers need to earn a bit of money to continue their travels. They usually end up with fruit-picking jobs in Australia.

The work can be hard and life can be boring at times but the cost of living is quite low and those with a 417 visa will earn an extra year on their visa. If you can manage it, this is one of the best ways to have a working holiday in Australia!

Backpackers are so established in the fruit-picking industry and businessmen are in turn so reliant upon them that it’s usually very easy to find a job. There are dozens of online boards with postings for farm jobs in Australia. Some popular websites are:

• Gumtree.com.au
• Backpackerjobboard.com.au
• Taw.com.au .

When you arrive at your farm stay, you’ll probably be surprised. Many of these farms look like hostels complete with bunk rooms, communal areas, and recreations.

You’ll have to pay for a bed but the prices are very cheap. Sometimes you may have to sleep off-premises, in which case a car really comes in handy; otherwise, there’s always the bus.

You can make a decent living working on a farm. Most clear $600/week on average but a hard worker can definitely make more. Make no mistake though: this is difficult work.

Farming in Australia isn’t pretty but it can certainly be rewarding. You’ll become quite close to both the land and your fellow working backpackers.

Farm work isn’t the only means of making money in Australia. Some of the best jobs for a working visa in Australia include serving, nannying, cooking, and cleaning. If you’re really lucky, you may even find a job in mining. If you decide to work in the city, know that the costs of living will be much higher.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Working Holiday Visas in Australia

Several nationalities have the option of applying for an Australian working holiday visa, which authorizes travelers to work legally in the country. This visa is an amazing opportunity for anyone who wants to stay and go backpacking in Australia for a longer term.

There are two types of working holiday visas in Australia:

• A Working Holiday visa (subclass 417)
• A Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462)

(If you’re thinking to yourself how stupidly similar these visa titles are, I’m right there with ya.)

Both visas entitle visitors to the ability to work in Australia for a period of 12 months. Note that the possessor of a 417 or 462 can only hold a single job for a period of 6 months. Certain countries can only apply for a 417 or 462 i.e. the British can qualify for a 417 but Americans must apply for a 462.

To apply for either visa, applicants will need to show that they have at least AUD 5,000 in their bank account. Both visas will also require a bill of clean health and a clean criminal record.

Applicants for a 462 visa will need to provide some key additional details. With the exception of the United States, those applying for a 462 must provide a letter of support from their government.

462 applicants will also have to pass a character test in which they’ll need to prove that they’re of good moral quality. Usually, a certificate of excellence, like a diploma or special certification, will suffice for this.

The most important difference between a 417 and 462 is that possessors of the former can apply for a second year visa given they’ve met some criteria. Unfortunately, American citizens and other 462 applicants can only have a working holiday in Australia for up to a year.

If you’re finding all of this a bit complicated, Global Work and Travel can alleviate some of the visa complications for you. They offer working holidays and internship opportunities in many locations throughout Australia, both of which require the working holiday VISA.

In fact, they’ll support you throughout the entire process; from VISA guidance to finding you the perfect placement. You’ve got to be between the ages of 18 to 35 (30 for some countries) though… Apologies if this isn’t you!

Volunteering in Australia

Australia is volunteering gold – there are lots of different volunteer projects you can join whether it be teaching, animal care, agriculture, hospitality, tourism, or pretty much anything!

For finding gigs, you have several options:

• Workaway is crazy popular!
• Or WWOOF Australia is perfect for anyone interested in working on the land. Organic farms and permaculture are their wheelhouse!
• Most alternative sites to Workaway have oodles of options.

And of those alternatives, I have one favorite at The Broke Backpacker: Worldpackers!

Worldpackers like to put focus on community. They connect you with meaningful volunteering opportunities that really help you feel like you’re contributing to local communities. PLUS their platform comes loaded with nifty features for connecting volunteers too!

And for an extra saucy bonus on top, Broke Backpacker readers get a special discount of $10 – 20% of the annual signup fee!

Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER at checkout or follow the button below and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39. Make Down Under your stomping ground. 😉

Australians are some of the most welcoming, exciting, and unabashed people that I’ve ever met. They have so few worries and give so little fucks that life just seems easier in their presence.

Even immediate dangers, like an impending tidal wave or the jaws of a killer croc, are made insignificant by an Australian’s devil-may-care attitude. 100%, these are some of the coolest people that I’ve come across in my travels.

It can be argued that the Australian attitude derives from their inhospitable environment. An Australian is threatened on a near day-to-day basis either from deadly creatures, ridiculous climate patterns, or people that constantly need to remind them of these last two points. After a while, danger itself just becomes commonplace and desensitizing.

The fact that Australia is so geographically remote as well means that hardly any international presence notices – or really holds – Australia accountable. Combine this with the Australian’s grit and you have a population that just does whatever makes them feel good.

To be fair, Australians who live in their home country are a little different from the ones that you see traveling so much . Rooted Australians are still hard workers and seemingly proficient at any trade involving blue-collar work. The country didn’t become so prosperous because they constantly didn’t give a shit.

We mustn’t forget either that Australia is inhabited by more than just white people and immigrants. Aboriginal people, the original Australians, are also present in modern Australian society, though to a smaller degree.

Odds are you won’t encounter many Aboriginal folks while backpacking through Australia; if you do though, just be respectful, open, and treat them the same as any other Ozzie.

Useful Travel Phrases for Australia:  “That’s Not a Knife” Edition

The Australian accent is infamous and has been the subject of a million pop culture references. When asked to impersonate an Australian accent, most foreigners emulate caricatures like Crocodile Dundee or Steve Irwin.

Hate to break it to you, but the way in which many of these icons speak is either over-exaggerated or very demographically specific. Not every Australian yells “G’DAY MATE!” or puts so much twang into their voice when saying things like “like” or “right” or “fight.” These are cultural stereotypes and pretty unfair.

Australians use a lot of slang; so much so that sometimes it can be hard to understand them. You’ll catch on to the colloquialisms fairly quickly but, for a little extra help, I’ve included a list of some popular Australian slang.

• Ta  – thank you
• Arvo  – afternoon
• Bottle-O  – liquor store
• Mozzie  –  mosquito
• Thong – flip-flops (yep, not the G-string)
• Ute  – pickup truck
• Bathers  – swimsuit
• Sheila  – woman
• Chunder  – vomit
• She’ll be right  – everything will be fine
• Stubby  – can of beer
• How ya goin?  – a friendly greeting

What to Eat in Australia

Australian cuisine is heavily influenced by its colonial roots. English, Italian, Asian, and Greek styles are all present in modern-day Australian cooking to varying degrees.

Being a colony of the British Empire, Australian cuisine resembles most that of the English variety. Many staples like fish ‘n’ chips and meat pies are present in both. When dining out in Australia, expect a similar experience as if you were dining out in the UK. Australian food will be hearty, heavy comfort food.

Being a nation of immigrants though, there is plenty more than the usual English fair. Asian cuisines of every shade are present in Australia and are actually some of the best outside of the Asian continent.

Several Mediterranean cultures call Australia home as well and have brought their cuisines with them. Thank the Italians for introducing a strong cafe culture in Australia – coffee in Australia is surprisingly delicious and taken seriously.

Barbecuing is a very important custom in Australia and is perhaps the highlight of the nation’s culinary scene. Aside from the usual BBQ meats, Australians also enjoy the various grilled game.

Kangaroo is healthy and cheap. Other more exotic meats like emu, alligator, and even grubs are available in speciality markets.

Must-Try Dishes in Australia

Below is a list of Australia’s most popular dishes.

• Meat Pie – Pastry, meat… self explanatory
• Chicken Schnitzel – The German fave
• Kangaroo – the dead, cute, bouncy guys
• Vegemite  – a rite of passage – no spoilers
• Pavlova  – the dessert that hits after a BBQ
• Anzac Biscuits  – a little cookie treat for you sweeties
• Lamingtons – the cake you don’t need, but want
• Tim Tams – the old Ozzie classic
• Barramundi  – your new fave fish dish
• Emu – big bird, long neck… you know the guy

A Brief History of Australia

Aboriginal Australians arrived on Australia’s mainland between 40,000 and 70,000 years ago. Their traditions relating to music, art, and spirituality are among the longest surviving in human history. Before the arrival of the British, the number of Aboriginal people living in Australia was between 300,000 and 1 million.

In 1770, Lieutenant James Cook claimed the land for Great Britain, after the Dutch first sighted Australia in 1606. In 1788, a fleet of 11 boats arrived in Botany Bay to establish New South Wales as a Penal Colony.

Furthermore, convicts were sent to all states, but South Australia became a free colony in 1836. More than 162,000 convicts were transported to Australia from Great Britain.

Australia began to look like a desirable location after the discovery of gold and the kickstart of its economy. The Eureka Stockade at Ballarat, in 1854, was a rebellion against taxation. Some see this as a crucial event in the evolution of Australia’s democracy.

Chinese immigration began during this period with 50,000 Chinese establishing roots in Australia.

In 1901, a federation of all of the states, the Commonwealth of Australia was created. The creation of Canberra marked it as the capital city of New South Wales, with a temporary parliament in Melbourne.

The Australian and New Zealand Anzac Corps took part in the World War I Gallipoli Campaign, in 1915. April 25, ANZAC Day, was the same date as the first landing at Gallipoli. Australians remember and pay their respects to the sacrifices of their armed forces on this day.

After World War II and the Vietnam War, an influx of migrants moved to Australia. Between 1949-1974, The Snowy Mountains Scheme employed 100,000 people. 70% of these people were migrants from 30 different nations.

Today, people from all over the world call Australia home. The continent has become known for its equality and lack of clear class distinctions.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

No trip to Australia would be complete without taking on something new and exciting. If you’re tired of the usual tourist trail, consider checking out these unique experiences instead.

Trekking in Australia

Hiking, or bushwalking,  is one of the most popular adventures in Australia! If you plan on going backpacking in Australia, you must go walking in the wilderness for a few days.

Venturing out into the bush in Australia is like taking a walk through the nation’s history. Here is a forbidding land, full of harsh landscapes and bitter elements, the likes of which tested and tortured the original settlers.

Should you decide to brave these wilds, you will gain real insight into the Australian identity. To enter the Australian backcountry you will need to be prepared.

I always suggest getting a sturdy hiking backpack as well, especially so if you intend to venture deep into the wilderness. You’ll want the best you can find and not something that will eventually be held together by duct tape.

Below is a list of some of Australia’s best multi-day trails.

• Australian Alps Track (45-60 days, 406 miles) – Long and arduous hike that is only meant for the experienced or guided. Passes through the highest mountains of Australia. Requires food drops.
• Fraser Island Great Walk (5-7 days, 52 miles) – Walk across the entire length of Fraser Island, which is one of the most beautiful places in Australia.
• Larapinta Trail (16-20 days, 140 miles) – The ultimate Outback adventure! Fairly new trail and already one of the best in the country.
• Cape to Cape Track (6-8 days, 88 miles) – A stunning coastal walk that is conveniently located near Perth. Showcases some of the best scenery in the Margaret River region.
• Overland Track (5-8 days, 46 miles) – A walk through the finest mountain landscapes in Tasmania. Arguably the best trek in Australia.

Surfing in Australia

Surfing is as much a part of the Australian identity as kangaroos or shrimps on the barbie. Australia is extremely passionate when it comes to hanging ten and catching some waves.

Obviously, surfing didn’t develop in Australia by chance either; Australia has some of the finest beaches for surfing in the entire world and these attract thousands of surfers every year. You’ll have heard of the famous Byron Bay and its legendary surfing spots.

There are so many amazing surfing spots in Australia that it would seem more logical to note where you couldn’t actually surf. Everywhere you go there seems to be good breaks and swells.

Of course, you won’t be surfing in the Sydney Harbour or Melbourne Pier. But travel less than an hour and, boom, you’ll be right in the middle of some prime waves.

Below is a list of some of Australia’s top surfing locations. There’s a pretty diverse selection from all over the country. Though the Northern Territory is lacking in this regard.

Diving in Australia

Though the Great Barrier Reef on the East Coast receives the lion’s share of attention, there are plenty more options to go diving in Australia! Sprinkled throughout the Australian coastline are many gorgeous reefs, sunken ships, and sea caves that are just waiting to be explored.

These destinations definitely get far fewer tourists than the Great Barrier Reef and far more diving enthusiasts. You could even charter your own yacht and go snorkeling in several places along the East Coast if you’re more into snorkelling than diving.

If you’re really into diving, then definitely check out any one of these spots (that aren’t the Great Barrier)!

Backpacking the Outback

The Outback . The Bush. The Fuck-all Middle of Straya. The reason why most who want to go backpacking in Australia visit in the first place. Many have little clue though as to how large and how imposing this region actually is.

Few actually comprehend the Outback’s size or its conditions. That scene in the Inbetweeners Movie where Jay pisses on Simon’s face to survive springs to mind.

Though the exact number isn’t agreed upon, the Outback constitutes at least 70% of Australia’s landmass and is around 2-3 million square miles. The whole of India is 1.5 million square miles – that’s a lot of fuck-all!

Water is extremely sparse in the Outback. Temperatures vary widely depending on the season and time of year, from sub-zero to over 110 Fahrenheit. People die out here from exposure all the time. If you plan to venture out into the desert, you must be prepared.

The Outback isn’t a singular destination that you just include in an itinerary – it’s a collection of several desert regions that form an unfathomably large ecosystem. You can visit parts of the Outback but there’s no way that you could visit the whole thing; there are huge swathes of the Outback that haven’t even been charted yet.

A few of the Outback’s top destinations have already been covered in this guide, like Alice Springs, the Kimberly, and the Nullarbor Plain. The last remaining portions of the Outback are relatively accessible. These places are, of course, minuscule in the grand scheme of things.

Join an Organized Tour in Australia

For most countries, when you visit Australia, solo travel is the name of the game. That said, if you are short on time, energy, or just want to be part of an awesome group of travelers, you can opt to join an organized tour.

Joining a tour is a great way to see the majority of the country quickly and without the effort that goes into planning a backpacking trip. However—not all tour operators are created equal—that is for sure.

G Adventures  is a solid down-to-earth tour company catering to backpackers just like you, and their prices and itineraries reflect the interests of the backpacker crowd. You can score some pretty sweet deals on epic trips in Australia for a fraction of the price of what other tour operators charge.

Here are what people usually ask me about backpacking in Australia…

How much money do you need to go backpacking in Australia?

This is largely dependent on where in Australia you go, and for how long. But to be comfortable, I would try to budget for at least $60 USD per day.

Where should I start backpacking in Australia?

Most flights tend to fly into Sydney or Melbourne and both would make a great starting point.

What visa do I need to backpack Australia?

Most tourists who are visiting for less than 3 months will need an Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) or tourist visa.

Is Australia good for backpacking?

Absolutely! It’s one of the most popular backpacking routes in the world and it won’t disappoint.

I bloody love Australians, dude. Who else is happily willing to drink a beer from their sweaty shoe, just for a laugh? What a sick nation of people. 

It would take a lot of effort to really piss off an Australian. Time after time, Australians just roll with the punches (quite literally sometimes), and then proceed to take a piss and forget about whatever may have had a chance of bothering them.

That being said, it’s still important to act like a decent human being and to show respect. No one likes an asshole coming into their country and stirring shit up. 

Backpackers especially have been criticized because of their behavior and causing trouble. Let’s not be one of them dumbasses.

On a different note, be sure to tread lightly when it comes to interacting with Aboriginal Australians. They have been subject to unthinkable horrors in the past and are still treating the racial scars that are leftover. Though some White Australians still wallow in ignorance, Australia as a whole is trying to mend the gap.

Should you encounter an Aboriginal Australian and they’re open to conversation, be mindful of their customs and do your research on their terminology. Don’t take pictures or enter Aboriginal land without asking first. Be sure to speak using respectful language as well.

Other than that, have fun! Australia is a huge and diverse country with so much to explore and enjoy. No matter who you are or what you’re into, you’ll have a blast down under.

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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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This is a great read. It’s so thorough and helpful. It is helpful to start planning my trip .Thank you for all the tips and tricks.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Australia Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 1, 2024

Australia is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. It’s known as a major backpacking, camping, road tripping, and diving destination.

Backpacking Australia is considered a “must do” for backpackers. It’s a central highlight on the round-the-world trail. I started coming to Australia in 2008 as a backpacker. It hooked me and, since then, I’ve visited over five times and have crisscrossed the country three times. Every single trip I discover something new about this country to love.

But this isn’t just a country for backpackers. Its huge diversity means every traveler can find something they love here.

Australia is filled with incredible natural beauty: Uluru and the Outback, rainforests and pristine white sand beaches, and of course, the Great Barrier Reef. Sydney’s Harbor Bridge and Opera House are iconic man-made wonders, and Melbourne’s café culture will make you feel like you’re relaxing in Europe . You have surfing, hiking, camping, boating, and a ton of other activities available to you. It makes some of the best wine in the world. Australia has it all.

However, the country’s size and limited transportation options, makes it hard to get around. And it’s not the cheapest place to visit, even if the currency is a tad weak right now.

Fortunately, this extensive Australia travel guide will show you how to save money, plan your trip, and make the most of your time Down Under. Because this country is worth taking the time to explore – and doesn’t need to cost a fortune!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Australia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in australia.

1. See Sydney

Australia’s largest city has a range of activities to keep you busy. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, surf at Bondi Beach, party in King’s Cross, sail across the harbor, visit the Opera House, and take in world-class innovation in Darling Harbor. There’s a ton to see and do here and it’s worth spending a few days here to soak it all in. Other popular beaches nearby include Manly (wide and beautiful), Bronte (small and quiet), Coogee (fun), Palm (chill), and Dee Why (surfing). And, if you’re feeling adventurous, tours that climb the iconic (and massive) harbor bridge cost 250 AUD.

2. Visit Uluru

This beautiful red rock formed over 550 million years ago. Tourists have been visiting the rock since the 1930s and it’s of great spiritual importance to the local Aboriginal peoples. Formerly known as Ayers Rock, the best way to visit is by going as part of a multi-day tour of the area or driving on your own. You’ll be able to walk around the rock, learn about its cultural importance, and watch the rising/setting sun splash against it. Admission is 38 AUD per person and is valid for three days. Note: Climbing on the rock is prohibited.

3. Dive the Great Barrier Reef

Don’t miss diving or snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef. It’s the largest living organism on Earth, spanning some 344,000 square kilometers (133,000 square miles). The reef is brimming with wildlife, including giant clams, manta rays, sharks, turtles, clown fish, and more! Cairns is the most popular jumping-off point for dive trips to the reef. I was blown away by the abundant wildlife and coral. It did not disappoint! Dive trips start around 230 AUD.

4. Explore Melbourne

Melbourne is much more relaxed than Sydney (and, personally, I like it more). This is the place to relax by the river, walk through the city gardens, eat amazing food, enjoy the art, and party in St. Kilda. It’s a fun, chill city with a youthful vibe and a ton of backpackers.

5. Sail the Whitsundays

The Whitsunday Islands are a collection of 74 islands off the central coast of Queensland. They’re one of the most popular destinations in the country. It’s a popular region for sailing trips and since the vast majority of these islands are designated national parks, you’ll find numerous pristine beaches and dive sites here. It’s a postcard-perfect region. Expect to pay between 399-499 AUD per person for a three-day/two-night sailing trip. While expensive, it’s worth doing (I loved my trip).

Other Things to See and Do in Australia

1. explore fraser island.

The world’s largest sand island is a popular spot for camping, swim, hike, and seeing dingoes. You can hire your own 4WD car or take an overnight tour through the island that’s famous for its freshwater lake (and dingoes). The island is beautiful and filled with lakes, hiking paths, and sweeping vistas. Sadly, you can’t go in the water nearby as it’s rough and full of sharks, but there’s plenty of fishing, cool sand dunes, the stunning 75 Mile Beach, and a cool shipwreck for snapping photos. Camping on the island is super cheap too (less than 10 AUD per night!).

2. Visit Cairns

Cairns is Australia’s gateway to northern Queensland. From here you can visit the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree rainforest, the Atherton Tablelands, Cape Tribulation, and much more. Cairns is a pretty typical tropical city and life here focuses on taking the time to smell the roses. With so much to see, the city deserves a very long stay. Plan to visit for a week, which should give you enough time to explore the area and allows some downtime by the city’s awesome pool.

3. Wander Brisbane’s South Bank

Brisbane is a “business city.” Unlike Sydney or Melbourne, there isn’t a lot of “culture” here. But it’s a popular stop on the backpacker trail due to its location. Be sure to explore South Bank, which has some nice restaurants and decent pubs. There’s also an educational koala sanctuary here as well as a relaxing botanical gardens.

4. Hike the Daintree

The world’s oldest rainforest (yes, it’s older than the Amazon) offers hikes that range from easy to challenging, with dense jungles, beautiful mountains, waterfalls, and lots of wildlife. Spend a few days hiking around and getting out of touristy Cairns. If you really want to get off the beaten path, head up to Cape Tribulation and enjoy some real peace and quiet (just watch out for jellyfish when you go swimming). There are all kinds of day and multi-day trips available here with two-day guided trips costing around 350 AUD per person.

5. See Perth

Perth is Australia’s west coast capital and is often overlooked by most travelers. It’s expensive to get out there from the east coast (it’s a 5-hour flight from Sydney) so most travelers avoid it. But I love it. In fact, it’s probably my favorite city in all of Australia. Perth feels more like a large town than a city and is the best place to have a “Sunday Session” (an Aussie tradition of drinking on Sunday afternoons). From the beaches, food, and beer (be sure to take a day trip to Freemantle), Perth is just awesome.

6. Explore the Outback

No trip to Australia is complete without a trip to the Outback to see crocodiles, valleys, lakes, and the red desert. Find your own Crocodile Dundee as you explore the Red Center and Western Australia. And be sure to visit some of the places I love: Karijini National Park, the Kimberleys, Kakadu, and Litchfield National Park. The landscapes are stunning and there are all kinds of epic hikes to enjoy.

7. Surf on the Gold Coast

Australia is famous for its surfing, and one of the best places to learn is on the Gold Coast near Brisbane. You’ll find world-class waves, a wide beach, and lots of available lessons. If you don’t like the Gold Coast , there is always Noosa, Byron Bay, Bondi Beach, Perth, and, well, you get the idea. There’s a lot of surfing in Australia! A two-hour group lesson costs around 75 AUD. If you don’t need lessons and just want to surf, you can rent a board for around 60 AUD per day.

8. Take a wine tour

Whether you go down to Margret River, Hunter Valley, or the Barossa Valley, you will have many chances to taste Aussie wine right from the source. Visiting the wine country should be on your list of things to do. If you rent a car, you can stay longer or you can do guided tours from major cities. I think it’s best to base yourself in the area and spend about 3-5 days in each area tasting as much wine as possible. Day tours with Colorful Trips that visit three wineries in the Hunter Valley cost 199 AUD.

9. Admire the Ningaloo Reef

The Great Barrier Reef gets all the hype, but the Ningaloo Reef on the west coast is a far better reef system. Because it’s less developed and attracts fewer tourists, there are actually more fish and wildlife here — you can even swim with whale sharks . Plus, at some points (like at Coral Bay), the reef comes so close to the shore that you can swim right up to it on your own. Half-day trips start around 120-225 AUD per person.

10. Visit Western Australia

The most overlooked area in the country is the west coast. Here you can escape the crowds of the east coast, explore the Outback, see the Ningaloo Reef, Coral Bay (one of my favorite spots in the world), Broome, Perth, and the Margaret River. It’s much less developed than the east coast but if you take one piece of advice away from this guide, it should be to visit this part of Australia. It’s the version of the country you picture in your head and is an amazing region for road trips, camping, hiking, and enjoying nature.

11. Tour Tasmania

Despite everyone knowing its name, hardly anyone ever makes it down here. (It’s far from the main tourist trail.) Tasmania has amazing hikes, beautiful bays (Wineglass Bay being the most famous), small towns, and excellent people. It’s just a ferry away from Melbourne too. The island is about the size of Ireland (or West Virginia in the USA) yet it’s home to just under 545,000 people. If you have the time, explore this terribly under-visited part of the country. It’s amazing. The ferry from the mainland costs around 100 AUD each way and takes 9-11 hours.

12. Hike the Blue Mountains

Right outside of Sydney , the Blue Mountains are an awesome place to explore. Over millennia, the ancient sandstone of this national park has been weathered into gorges lined by steep cliffs and separated by narrow ridges. The area is free to visit and you can get there by train, which takes around two hours. Spend the day admiring the magnificent rock formation of the Three Sisters (particularly stunning at sunset and under evening floodlights) and hiking along the paths that offer excellent views of the valley, sheer rock walls, tumbling waterfalls, and magnificent forests. For a guided tour, Get Your Guide offers full-day wildlife-spotting tours for 155 AUD.

13. Learn about pearling in Broome

Broome used to be the largest pearling port in the world. Founded around 1880, pearls were an important commodity used for making cutlery, buttons, and jewelry. By 1900, there were 300 ships here, though the industry fell into decline during World War II (and then, after the war, plastic was invented, which diminished the need for pearls). You can learn all about the region’s rich history at the Pearl Lugger Museum (tours for 30 AUD). If you want a more hands-on experience, Willie Creek Pearls also offers a two-hour boat tour for 129 AUD. You’ll learn about the risks and challenges of the industry while also getting to hold and touch all kinds of valuable pearls.

14. Visit the Kimberley

This area is known for its wilderness, so if you love the outdoors and don’t mind things getting rugged, add this to your itinerary. Located near Broome, this outback region is three times bigger than England that’s filled with stunning gorges, beautiful waterfalls, and a vast desert landscape. It was one of the first areas settled in Australia some 65,000 years ago (Europeans didn’t arrive here in the 1830s). There are all kinds of day trips and hikes here that you can do solo, as well as multi-day guided tours. Expect to pay around 1,200 AUD for a three-day guided excursion. If you’re going solo, popular overnight hikes include Piccaninny Gorge and Lurujarri Dreaming Trail.

15. Explore Kakadu National Park

The enormous Kakadu National Park is a biodiverse nature reserve in Australia’s Northern Territory. It encompasses wetlands and rivers and is home to saltwater crocodiles and flatback turtles, as well as many different bird species. Rock paintings (dating back to prehistory) can be viewed at Nourlangie, Nanguluwur, and Ubirr. You can find a lot of tours departing from Darwin. Be sure to spend at least a night in the park! Three-day tours cost around 735 AUD.

For more information on specific cities in Australia, check out these guides:

• Alice Springs Travel Guide
• Brisbane Travel Guide
• Broome Travel Guide
• Cairns Travel Guide
• Fraser Island Travel Guide
• Gold Coast Travel Guide
• Melbourne Travel Guide
• Perth Travel Guide
• Sydney Travel Guide
• Whitsunday Islands Travel Guide

Australia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels dorms start around 25-30 AUD per night, though they get as high as 40 AUD in the big coastal cities. Private rooms with a double bed and a shared bathroom in hostels range between 65-100 AUD per night, though in larger cities they can be as high as 150 AUD. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and self-catering facilities. Only some hostels include breakfast.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic tent plot without electricity starts around 7 AUD, though most are 10-25 AUD per night.

For budget hotels, expect to spend 100-120 AUD per night for a two-star hotel. Amenities usually include TV, Wi-Fi, and AC. Some hotels have a pool.

Airbnb is available around the country with private rooms starting around 40 AUD (though they average closer to 90 AUD). Entire homes/apartments cost at least 140 (though they are usually double or even triple that price so be sure to book early). Expect to pay about 10-20% more in the coastal cities.

Food – Food in Australia is diverse, with each region having its own specialties. While you can find cuisine of all types here, popular traditional choices include BBQ meat (especially sausages), meat pies, fish and chips, seafood, chicken parmigiana (chicken schnitzel topped with tomato sauce, ham, and melted cheese), and, of course, the infamous vegemite on toast.

Food prices vary per region, but generally, you can expect to pay 20-25 AUD for a meal at a casual restaurant. A fast-food combo from somewhere like McDonald’s costs 13-14 AUD while a pizza costs around 16-20 AUD. Chinese, Thai, and Indian food cost 12-20 AUD for a main dish.

If you want to splash out for something more upscale, a expect to pay around 55-70 AUD, including a drink, per person.

A beer is around 8 AUD, latte or cappuccino costs around 5 AUD, and bottled water between 2-3 AUD.

If you cook your own meals, expect to pay around 75-95 AUD per week for groceries. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Australia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Australia for 70 AUD per day. This assumes you’re staying in a cheap hostel, cooking all of your meals, using public transportation to get around, and doing mostly cheap or free activities like hiking and enjoying the beaches. If you camp, you can lower this budget by around 20 AUD per day. If you plan on drinking, add 10-20 AUD to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 200 AUD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or hostel room, eat out for a couple of meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, bus between cities, and do more paid activities like taking surf lessons or going diving.

On a “luxury” budget of 385 AUD or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car or camper van to explore, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AUD.

Australia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Australia can be a very expensive country to visit. If you aren’t careful, you’ll blow through your entire budget in no time as activities, food, and transportation all adds up fast here. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to save too. Here are some ways to save money when you visit Australia:

• Drink goon (box wine) – Goon is infamous on the Australian backpacker hostel trail. This cheap box of wine is the best way to drink, get a buzz, and save a lot of money at the same time. Drink this before you go out and save on spending money at the bar.
• Cook your own meals – The best way to reduce your costs is to cook as many meals as possible. Hostels and Airbnbs usually have kitchens and, while it’s not glamorous, it will save you a ton of money!
• Car share – Australia is a big country that can be expensive to get around. If you are traveling with friends, it’s smart to buy a used car or campervan (or rent a new one from one of the many rental companies in the country) and split the costs of gas. You can also hitch a ride with other travelers using sites like Gumtree, Jayride, or hostel message boards.
• Book tours as a package – This country has a lot of exciting activities and tours that eat into any budget. Booking activities together through a hostel or tour agency can get you a discount and save you hundreds of dollars.
• Work for your room – Many hostels offer travelers the opportunity to work for their accommodation. In exchange for a few hours a day of cleaning, you get a free bed to sleep in. Commitments vary but most hostels ask that you stay for at least a week. Check with the staff when you arrive to see if there are any opportunities available.
• WWOOF – WWOOFing is a program that allows you to work on organic farms in exchange for free room and board. Everyone I’ve met who stays in the country long-term does it for at least one month. It’s a great way to reduce your expenses and can a deeper look into local life.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation in Australia is pricey. If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host that will host you for free. It’s the best way to connect with a local and get insider tips and advice.
• Camp – Camping is very affordable here, with basic tent plots costing as little as 7 AUD per night!
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Australia is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle with you to save money and lower your plastic use. LifeStraw makes a bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where To Stay in Australia

I’ve been a backpacker here for ages and have accumulated a long list of places to stay. Here are my suggested places to stay in Australia if you’re looking for a hostel:

• Base St. Kilda (Melbourne)
• Space Hotel (Melbourne)
• Wake Up! (Sydney)
• YHA Rocks (Sydney)
• Bunk Brisbane (Brisbane)
• City Backpackers HQ (Brisbane)
• Kimberley Travellers Lodge (Broome)
• The Shiralee Hostel (Perth)
• Aquarius Backpackers (Byron Bay)
• Gilligan’s Backpacker Hotel & Resort Cairns (Cairns)
• Nomads Noosa (Noosa)
• Alice Lodge Backpackers (Alice Springs)

How to Get Around Australia

Public transportation – All of Australia’s cities have reliable, affordable public bus systems. In the bigger, cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth, you’ll even find subways and tram systems. This is the cheapest way to travel the cities. Fares cost between 2.75-4 AUD.

Many cities offer day passes that include unlimited public transportation for under 10 AUD.

Bus – After driving, this is my favorite transportation option in Australia. On the east coast, this will be your cheapest option too. On the west coast, buses are surprisingly expensive as there are not many people moving up and down that coast and there’s limited competition. However, on the east coast, you can find really cheap bus tickets, especially if you book in advance.

The two main bus companies in Australia are:

• Greyhound Australia

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 .

Backpacker Bus – If you want to party with other backpackers as you travel, book a seat on the Magic Bus . This backpacker bus departs with 25 backpackers aged 18-35 for 3-4 weeks of exploring the country’s national parks, camping, bonfires, and non-stop parties and shenanigans.

Trips go from Perth north to Broome or east to Melbourne each month, so you have to time your trip accordingly to line up with the set departure. The itineraries are always flexible so every trip is unique. They try to keep a balance of 50% men and 50% women, as well as a balance of different nationalities, so there is always a diverse group. Prices vary so contact them for departure dates and ticket prices.

Train – Between city trams, commuter trains, and long-distance and trans-continental trains, Australia can be seen extensively by rail. Train lines exist mostly on the east coast with only two other major lines in the country: one goes north/south from Melbourne to Darwin and another east/east from Sydney to Perth.

For reference, Sydney to Canberra takes 5 hours and is 40-50 AUD while the 11-hour trip from Sydney to Melbourne costs over 200 AUD. Sydney to Brisbane takes 14 hours and costs 100-140 AUD.

Beyond the east coast, trains aren’t as plentiful and long-distance trains can be very expensive.

Flying – With Australia spanning over 7,000,000 square kilometers, it takes a long time to get around the country. Flying is one of the most efficient ways to city hop, but it’s not the cheapest. Australia’s major airlines include:

When booked in advance, flights can be very affordable here. Sydney to Melbourne is just 55 AUD and takes 90 minutes while Sydney to Cairns takes 3 hours and costs around 100 AUD each way. To cross the country, flights last around 5 hours. Sydney to Perth, when booked in advance, can cost as little as 150 AUD each way.

When not booked early, however, flights can easily double or triple these prices.

Rideshares – Every hostel has a bulletin board where travelers post rides and websites like Gumtree have active ridesharing sections where people look for cars or riders. I HIGHLY recommend this way of traveling when in the country. CoSeats is another good resource for finding rides.

Car rental – Car rentals start around 40 AUD per day. You don’t need one to explore any of the cities but if you want to travel the country then a car is best. Just remember that they drive on the left here.

Additionally, you can also purchase a car from backpackers leaving the country or locals selling used cars. You can usually find a used car for under 3,000 AUD. It might seem a lot, but there are always backpackers looking to share rides, which can cut down on our expenses.

When to Go to Australia

Temperatures vary across the country (it’s a huge landmass after all), but generally speaking, average summer temperatures range from 20-37°C (68-99°F). Remember that summer is from December-February here in the southern hemisphere. This is the most popular time to visit so expect big crowds and higher prices.

June-August (winter) is the low season. Prices are lower and there are fewer crowds. The temperature dips as well, hovering around 1°C (52°F) in the south while going as high as 30°C (86°F) in the north.

Spring and fall (March-May and September-October) are the shoulder season and the best time to visit. Crowds aren’t as big and prices aren’t as high and the weather is still enjoyable too, rarely dipping below 17°C (63°F).

Note that October to April is also “jellyfish season,” making waters unsafe for swimming or any other water sport. If you’re planning on enjoying Australia’s coast, this probably isn’t the best time to come. The season lasts from October to April in Northern Australia, and then from November to March elsewhere.

How to Stay Safe in Australia

Australia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel around. Violent attacks and petty theft are rare here so you’re unlikely to get into trouble.

Most incidents in Australia tend to occur because visitors are not used to the country’s unique climate and wilderness. Be sure you have plenty of sunscreen and stay as hydrated as possible. This is especially true if you’re driving through the Outback. There are long, long distances without any towns in sight, so if you break down, you’ll want to be prepared. Always make sure you have enough gas in your vehicle for long drives.

If you’re hiking, make sure you know what to expect ahead of time. Be on the lookout for snakes and spiders. If you’re bitten, seek immediate care.

If you’re swimming, heed the red and yellow flags. Yellow flags indicate swimming conditions may be dangerous; red flags mean the beach is closed.

Mother Nature in Australia is NOT a force to be reckoned with in this country. Don’t be a hero.

Solo female travelers are generally safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.). Consult other solo female travel blogs for specific advice.

If you’re worried about travel scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here . There aren’t many in Australia though so I wouldn’t worry too much here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 000 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Australia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. Just enter your departure and arrival destinations and it will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost. It’s one of the best transportation websites out there!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Australia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more information? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Australia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Sydney

Where to Stay in Brisbane: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Brisbane

The Best Walking Tours in Melbourne

The Best Walking Tours in Sydney

Where to Stay in Melbourne: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

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• Where To Stay
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• Booking Resources
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Complete Guide to Backpacking Australia and Travel Itineraries

Growing up I always pictured Australia as a massive country that is barren and remote with a few beaches mixed in. The hit classic Crocodile Dundee left this major impression on an 8-year-old me. If I had to choose a few words to describe Australia, I would have chosen outback, beach, bikini, and surf. To be honest, these preconceived notions did not excite me a lot.

Coming from the US, I expected Australia to have some similarities to our home country. The cities would be full of skyscrapers. The culture would be mostly non-existent and dull. I did expect some differences from the US. There would be no mountains. The food would be bad. What is this Vegemite stuff Aussies rave about? To be honest, Australia wasn’t high on my list of places to visit. However, after years of traveling, we decided it was time to visit the land Down Under.

We spent three months backpacking in Australia. After purchasing a Subaru in Sydney, we hit the road. Visiting every state not called Western Australia, we saw Australia in a whole new light. Not only was it full of surprises, but the beauty was also overwhelming and we did not want to leave. All of those preconceived ideas and beliefs were so wrong.

Australia is the perfect place for epic road trips and an awesome backpacking destination. At the end of our trip, if I had to again choose four words to describe Australia, they would be outback, beach, bikini, and surf. But it means so much more to me now. Cheers mates!

Content and photographs provided by Yana Kogan and Timon .

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Australia Backpacking Guide

Best time to visit australia.

Australia is a massive country that has different climates throughout the year. Depending on the place for travel, planning according to the season is crucial.

North Australia  – The best time to visit Queensland , the Northern Territory, and the northern part of Western Australia are during the winter months between June and September. The north is either tropical or arid. It gets extremely hot in the summer and many areas are prone to tropical storms. Roads in the north can be closed in the summer due to annual flooding.

South Australia  – The best time to visit New South Wales , South Australia, Tasmania , and the southern part of Western Australia is during the summer months between November and April. Believe it or not, Australia does get winter and it even snows in the mountains. Both Melbourne and Sydney get cold in the winter. If traveling during this time, don’t forget a jacket.

Visa to Australia

There are several visa options depending on the intended length of stay, age, and home country. For more information, please refer to the  Australia visa and immigration website  for all their visa options. These are the common visa options for visitors to Australia:

• Electronic Travel Authority visa:  Available for passport holders from the United States, Canada, Brunei, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, or South Korea. It costs $20 AUD. Visa holders are eligible for stays up to 3 months, with unlimited entries into Australia for the duration of the visa.  Learn more about the Electronic Travel Authority visa .
• eVisitor visa:  Available for passport holders from Europe. It is a free visa and is valid for 12 months. Visa holders are eligible for stays up to 3 months, with unlimited entries into Australia for the duration of the visa.  Learn more about the eVisitor visa here.
• Visitor visa:  With a passport from countries not eligible for an ETA visa or eVisitor visa, a visitor visa will have to be procured. The visa cost ranges from $120 AUD to $1,000 AUD and has options of 3, 6, or 12-month visas.  Learn more about the Visitor visa here .
• Working Holiday visa:  With a passport from an eligible country and under the age of 31, it is possible to get a one-year visa. This is popular for backpackers looking to work and then travel in Australia.  Learn more about the Working Holiday visa here.

Currency and Banking

The Australian Dollar ($ AUD) is the national currency in Australia. It is historically a strong currency, although it saw some recent declines in 2017. Banks and ATMs are widespread throughout the country. National chains, including ANZ and Westpac, are available in nearly every town. Most ATMs charge a $2 – $3 fee when using another bank card. At the time of writing in August 2018, $1 AUD = $0.74 USD or €0.64.

Transportation in Australia

Australia is massive in size so determining the right transportation in Australia is critical. For short stays, fly between major cities or rent a vehicle. For longer stays, renting or buying a vehicle is the best option.

Bus Transportation

Bus companies such as  Firefly Express and Greyhound offer direct route services as well as tours. They are flexible with hop-on hop-off packages. Direct bus routes between major cities cost between $75 AUD and $150 AUD. Tours can range from 3 days to 16 days. For example,  Oz Experience  (Greyhound) offers a 13-day tour from Melbourne to Cairns for $1029 AUD.

Domestic Flights

Cheap airlines such as  Jetstar  and  Virgin Australia  fly between major cities for cheap fares as low as $40. Make sure to pay attention to their baggage policies, especially their carry-on weight restrictions. They are known to physically weigh carry-on baggage at check-in and only allow 7 kg.

Check Flight Prices on Skyscanner

Renting a Campervan in Australia

Renting a vehicle makes sense for short and some longer stays in Australia. There are options to rent small vehicles or campervans. Australia has many campgrounds, including free ones throughout the country. Renting a campervan would double as accommodation.

Renting a smaller car would require stays in Airbnb, hostels, hotels, or tent camping. Hire a campervan from  Jucy ,  Hippie Camper , or  Britz  while touring Australia, allowing greater flexibility on an itinerary. Campervans will end up saving money. Campervan rentals cost between $400 and $700 per week depending on the size and quality.

Buying a Car or Campervan in Australia

For those coming to Australia for longer periods, buying a vehicle will likely make sense. Buying a car in Australia is confusing and it is important to understand all the anticipated costs. Try and find a good vehicle that does not become a burden. Don’t buy the cheapest option available, it might not get you very far!

Reliable cars are found on Gumtree, where you can find used vehicles with only one prior owner. On the low-end, a budget between $4,000 – $6,000 is enough for a Subaru station wagon, a converted campervan (people movers), or an older 4×4. Don’t get scared away by a higher price tag just yet. When finished with a road trip, you can sell the car, making this a cheaper option than renting a vehicle. The key is getting the vehicle checked out properly to ensure the mechanics are sound.

Backpacking in Australia

Australia is a backpacker haven. There is a massive backpacker community in Australia whether it is a 2-week road trip, three months, or a year-long excursion on a working visa. Hostels and dorm beds are available throughout the country, and renting or buying a campervan is a good choice to explore all the sights.

There are free campsites all over Australia, so while the costs of food and a dorm room are not as cheap as in other regions of the world, there are ways to reduce costs and make this an affordable backpacking destination. There are useful Facebook groups and community boards for connecting with other backpackers. This is a great way to join others on road trips to share the costs of a car and petrol.

Food in Australia

Food in Australia is known for its meat pies, fish and chips, and BBQ. A cheap meal in Australia is usually around $10 AUD. This can get you fast food or takeaway. We preferred to cook our own meals while in Australia, buying our groceries from Woolworths/Coles and cooking at our campsite each night. Cooking will save lots of money while traveling in Australia. However, with a higher budget, the restaurants in cities are super delicious.

Example Costs in Australia

Petrol – typically ranges between $1.20 and $1.50 per liter, but can get as expensive as $2.00 in the outback. Beer (6pk) – $18 – $24 Cask wine (goon) – $12 – $18 (2L to 5L depending on quality) Wine (bottle) – $7 – $12 Takeaway – $8 – $15 Coffee – $5 Dorm bed – $25 – $30

Apps for Australia

There are two apps to download before heading to Australia.  Campermate  is a free app that provides information on campsites, things to see, petrol, and lots more.  WikiCamps Australia  is a paid app that has tons of information and user comments. Download the comments so everything is available offline. WikiCamps has an extensive list of campsites and comments to help provide information and suggestions. It is a one-time cost of $7.99 AUD.

The 7 Best Places to Visit in Australia

1. see the islands of queensland.

Queensland is a popular destination for both backpackers and Aussies during the holidays. There are some pretty amazing places to visit, such as the Whitsunday Islands, Fraser Island, or the Great Barrier Reef. Whitsunday was one of our favorite places in all of Australia. If you like beach camping this is the place to do it!

Queensland could be a road trip on its own, but we suggest making this part of a bigger trip. While the sights are incredible, with long drives on the highway and fewer coastal sights than expected, it would be great to visit other areas of Australia too. For the top places to visit in Queensland and suggested itineraries, check out our  Queensland guide .

2. Offroad in the Outback

The middle of Australia in most cases is nothing more than barren lands with dusty and flat horizons. Views are as far as the eye can see. And then suddenly out of nowhere, something appears and completely stuns you with its existence. A visit to the Red Center is one of the more memorable places in Australia.

Stops at Kings Canyon, the West MacDonald ranges, Devils Boulders, and the rock formations at the Breakaways Conservation Park were oh, so impressive. The grand finale, Uluru, is a place that no picture can truly capture. It is a spiritual place with amazing beauty that left us speechless.

The Outback is a serious place and takes some planning, but the campfire nights, starry skies, and endless deserts are remarkable. For more information on the top places to visit and suggested itineraries, check out our  Outback survival guide .

3. Dive the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living organism on earth and extends from Bundaberg up to Papua New Guinea. Nearly two million people visit the Great Barrier Reef each year, and you should too. While there is damage to the reef and coral bleaching is occurring at an alarming rate, there is no better time to visit the reef than now. It is still one of the best snorkel and dive locations on earth.

Tours typically originate from Cairns, the most accessible location to the reef. Diving or snorkeling trips to the outer reef are a must! We loved our two days and one-night trip with Coral Sea Dreaming. Read more about our sailing and dive excursion to the  Great Barrier Reef .

4. See the Sights on the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is known mostly for the 12 Apostles, but there is so much more to see. This is one of the best road trips in Australia. The coastline has sections of the drive directly along the ocean. Rock formations erupt from the ocean floor creating endless amounts of photo opportunities. The desolate beaches are incredible to explore.

Cape Otway is smack in the middle of the GOR, a nice detour through a rainforest with some of Australia’s best waterfalls. One of our lasting memories was the amazingly cute Koalas that can be seen in the wild. From wildlife, waterfalls, beaches, rock formations, and scenic drives, the Great Ocean Road is one of the best road trips in Australia. Read more about the  Great Ocean Road  and all the top places to stop.

5. Explore New South Wales

Millions of people visit New South Wales every year, which isn’t a surprise since Sydney is the largest city and has the largest airport in Australia. Sydney is a cool metropolis with amazing beaches, but venturing away will lead to a very gratifying experience. If there was an award for hidden gems and the least talked  about beaches and rock pools , NSW would be right at the top of the list.

From Royal National Park, Kiama, and the Bombo Headlands, there is so much to explore. Epic views and hiking in the  Blue Mountains  top the list of what to see. With the whitest sand in the world, Jervis Bay is worth the 3-hour drive from Sydney. There are so many reasons to check out New South Wales. Read our guide to the best places to visit in  New South Wales .

6. Go Hiking in Tasmania

Often looked at as the redheaded step-sibling of mainland Australia, Tasmania has so much raw beauty and mountainous terrain that cannot be offered anywhere else. We wonder why Aussies seem to dismiss Tasmania as a place to visit. Maybe they are just jealous. Tassie coastlines are some of the best in the country, especially the Tasman Peninsula, Freycinet, and the Bay of Fires.

Hiking is plentiful with options ranging from easier day walks to extremely advanced treks in the remote wilderness. Some of the best walks are Cradle Mountain, Frenchmans Cap, Pine Valley, and the Western Arthurs. Tasmania is the place to be in Australia for solitude and incredible nature. Check out our  Tasmania guide  for the top places to visit and the best hikes.

7. Get off the Beaten Path in Western Australia

By far, the most remote and unique landscapes in Australia belong to Western Australia. It is home to only 2.5 million people but with 2.6 million sq kilometers to explore. Western Australia would be in the top 10 in size if it were its own country. It offers a different vibe and experience for touring Australia.

Driving is extremely long, but the highlights make up for the long distances. It is important to have a proper car, gear, and time to visit Western Australia. Known for the best beaches in Australia, one of the best reefs in the world, and massive canyons, Western Australia has tons to offer. Some of the highlights are Margaret River, the Kimberleys, Broome, Karajini, snorkeling or diving at the Ningaloo Reef, Purnululu, Rottnest Island, William Bay National Park, and Esperance among many others!

Should You Go to Australia?

Absolutely! Australia has so much diversity and natural beauty that it could take decades to truly explore every nook and corner of this massive country. It’s best to visit for at least two to three weeks and pick a smaller area to explore more in-depth. While it is common to think it is possible to rush through Australia and see the entire country, the driving distances are very long and take a toll. With that said, below are some suggested itineraries based on the length of stay.

Suggested Itineraries & Road Trips for Australia

1-week road trip options in australia.

• Visit the Sydney attractions, explore the coastline in Royal National Park and hike in the Blue Mountains.
• Drink coffee and check out the graffiti in Melbourne before an epic Great Ocean Road trip.
• Fly to Alice Springs and visit the best of the Outback: Uluru, Macdonald Ranges, and Kings Canyon.
• Road trip from Brisbane to Airlie Beach visiting Fraser Island and the Whitsundays.

2-Week Road Trip Options in Australia

• Check out the Sydney attractions and drive down the coast to the Great Ocean Road visiting Royal National Park, Jervis Bay, Bombo Headlands, Melbourne, and the GOR.
• Explore Melbourne and then a road trip to the Great Ocean Road followed by a few days hiking in the Grampians and finish off visiting wine country in Adelaide.
• Road trip from Brisbane to Cairns with stops at Noosa, Fraser Island, the Whitsundays, Wallaman Falls, the waterfall circuit, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Daintree Rainforest.
• Explore all the best sights of the Outback around Alice Springs (Uluru, West Mcdonald Range, and Kings Canyon) and then drive up to Darwin to explore the parks in Northern NT.
• Visit the top sights in Tasmania from the Tasman Peninsula, Freycinet, Bay of Fires, Cradle Mountain, Mount Field, and a multi-day hike.

One-Month Itinerary Options for Australia

• Drive from Sydney to Cairns visiting New South Wales and Queensland.
• Explore two weeks in Queensland and drive to Adelaide with two weeks in the Outback.
• Venture out west driving from Perth to Darwin.
• See all the best sights of Tasmania from the two-week trip, plus add on several epic multi-day treks, such as Mount Anne, Western Arthurs, Frenchmans Cap, the Overland Track, or Pine Valley.

that’s it – have a wonderful time exploring Australia!

Planning a trip to Australia? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

About the Author:

Yana & Timon met at college in Boston, Massachusetts. After graduating, they started their professional careers. They moved to San Francisco in 2010, a city they loved living in for nearly six years. After working and saving up money for several years, they quit their jobs and set off on an adventure of a lifetime. They started living a nomadic lifestyle in December 2015 and have not looked back since.

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// There is no better place in the world to learn to dive than the Great Barrier Reef in Australia! Gain your PADI diving certification during our 5D/4N trip which includes 2 nights on a live-aboard vessel! Includes all your accommodation, meals whilst on the live-aboard, all equipment and theory / pool lessons! This trip is open-dated so you can travel when it suits you!

// See the best of the Whitsundays including the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Hike up the iconic Hill Inlet for spectacular views over Whitehaven beach and spend 2 night under the stars on our boat with unrivaled facilities.

// On our 3-day, 2-night Fraser Island Adventure we’ll take you to the crystal-clear waters of Lake McKenzie, send you floating down Eli Creek and walk you into Pile Valley’s ancient rainforest. Camp along the beach and spend your days exploring this incredible island – get the unique Fraser Island experience, all while driving in your own 4×4!

// Experience the Australian Outback on this iconic Red Centre tour. Visit the sacred sites of Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon, sleep in an Aussie swag under the stars and learn about Aboriginal history and current day Aboriginal culture.

// This Top End Australia adventure is the Ultimate way to explore the Northern Territory. Discover the iconic Kakadu, Litchfield National Park, Katherine Gorge and the Devils Marbles on this 6-Day Traditional Camping group tour from Darwin to Alice Springs.

// Welcome to Sydney! Our Meet Me package will showcase the best of Sydney, Blue Mountains and Bondi! Great for Working Holiday Visas Australia

// Explore additional stops along the East Coast on the 3 week East Coast Escapade tour from Sydney to Cairns. Explore Sydney, Port Stephens, Port Macquarie, Noosa, Airlie Beach, Cairns and more!

// Welcome to Perth, Western Australia! From vibrant cities that blend the old and new to idyllic island playgrounds, this group tour is jam-packed with fun! Discover Perth, Fremantle, Rottnest Island and more!

// Are you ready for an Epic Australia Adventure Tour? Join us on our NEW 24 night tour experiencing the best of the East Coast and see the Australian Outback on an epic camping adventure. Start in Cairns, ends in Uluru.

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Why Travel Australia?

Still looking for a good reason to jump on a flight halfway around the world to Australia? We can’t cover them all, but here's a few to get you started; snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, cruise the incredible Whitsundays, drive 4x4’s on the largest sand island in the world - Fraser Island, skydive over some of the most pristine coastlines on earth and of course find yourself immersed in a new culture of ‘Life before Work’. Australia for some is the ultimate backpacker destination and a place you absolutely need to add to your bucket list.

Say Hello G’day Mate

Local Currency Aussie Dollar

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Favourite Dish Beach BBQ

Group Travel Australia

Taking a Gap Year to Australia is truly LIFE CHANGING - doing it with a group of like minded solo travellers just adds that ‘cherry on the cake!’ Make memories that will last a lifetime without the worries or struggles of doing it alone. These gap year programs are the perfect solution for those people that hate planning and just want hassle free adventures from start to finish.

Visit the Opera House & Harbour Bridge

Get up close & personal with koalas & kangaroos, join a surf camp & catch your first wave, spot dolphins in the beautiful jervis bay, get tipsy at a wine tasting experience, explore the laneways and famous street-art, watch the cute little penguins at phillip island, get stuck into street food at the queen victoria market, time to chill at the world famous ‘bondi beach’, learn about real aboriginal culture, mix things up at a cocktail making class, pick a trip.

Welcome to Melbourne - 8 Days

Welcome to Sydney - 8 Days

What Our Travellers Say

Share the adventure.

There really is no better way to start that working holiday experience than on one of our amazing group tours in Australia. The team will get you fully settled in to work abroad down-under. Share the adventure with people just like you.. Looking for the best possible travelling experience in Australia.

MELBOURNE STARTER PACKAGE

Heard great things about Melbourne but don’t know where to start? No worries! Our 8 day Melbourne trip is the perfect way to start that gap year in Australia.

SYDNEY STARTER PACKAGE

Looking to do a gap year or working holiday starting in Sydney? We got you! This 8 day trip is the ultimate way to kick off your backpacking adventure in Australia.

Australia FAQ's

Is it safe to travel australia.

Australia is by far one of the safest countries in the world. Crime is generally pretty low and the risk of being robbed, mugged or attacked is extremely unlikely. But, like every country in the world you do have to use basic rules of common sense and treat the locals with respect. However, the simple answer is YES, Australia is super safe to travel!

Where should I start my gap year to Australia, Sydney or Melbourne?

It all boils down to personal preference (or what your friends tell you to do 😂). We would always suggest doing your research, to help with the decision making. We've covered a whole bunch of different articles on both Sydney and Melbourne to help you decide.

But, if you want a short 1 line breakdown of each, here we go...

Sydney : Known for its famous harbour, warm weather and cosmopolitan vibe. You’ll never be far from the beach or a gym, that's for sure. Sydney beach suburbs are full of surfers and there’s always a barbie nearby.

Melbourne : Known for its hipster vibes, world famous coffee and artsy laneways. Melbourne is a city with a tonne of character & a very European flair. This multicultural city was rated ‘The World’s Most Livable City’ 7 years in a row.

Should I do a Gap Year to Australia?

There is no better country in the world to work abroad than Australia. With a working holiday visa process that is world leading and endless possibilities when it comes to finding work you’d be crazy not to do it! The work-life balance in Australia makes it such an attractive destination for students of all ages. Plus...the life experience you’ll gain from doing a year abroad in Australia is truly invaluable!

How can I travel the East Coast of Australia?

One of the absolute bucket list things to do when visiting Australia is travelling the East Coast. There are lots of different ways to do it but 1 thing is for sure...you need a place to start. 2 of the most popular places to start are Sydney and Melbourne . You can also start in Brisbane or Cairns but most travellers prefer to start south and make their way up the famous coastline.

The next most important thing to consider is ‘How’. Travelling the East Coast of Australia is commonly done either in a hop-on hop-off bus or you can rent a campervan.

I’m travelling alone, will I meet other people?

Australia is such an incredible place to travel solo, it’s safe, everyone speaks english and there are tonnes of travellers just like you living the dream down under. What makes these starter packages so popular is the hassle free experience end to end. The crew will pick you up when you arrive, get you settled in and help you plan your life for both work and travel.

What kind of people come on these group tours?

It doesn’t matter whether you’re travelling solo or coming with a friend, the trips are full of different people from all corners of the world.

You can be a student on a Gap Year to Australia, a professional taking a short holiday from work or just deciding to go on a backpacking adventure to escape life... these Australia Group Tours are the perfect solution!

What are the benefits of travelling as a group?

Travelling Australia in a group Vs travelling solo is a very different experience. Travelling alone you often feel like you have more freedom but you will need to plan out your days to get the best of each. Travelling solo does give you the ability to have way more lazy days! Travelling Australia as a group will involve more structure in your day achieving way more than when travelling on your own.

Choosing the right travel company will allow you to not only do the tourist spots but also head off the beaten track a little more.

Another huge benefit of travelling as a group is that you will arrive and make an instant group of friends... we see groups arriving as complete strangers and leaving as best friends! Travelling solo can sometimes be a little lonely if you are not confident enough to try and make new friends each day!

Is there a Facebook Group to chat to others before we go?

There sure is! We have a whole community of over 1,000 other travellers just like you! It’s a great place to ask questions, share ideas or even upload photos from your travels. Everyone is super welcoming and always ready to help if needed. You can Join the Feel Free Family Here . You will also be invited into a WhatsApp group a week before your tour starts, this is a perfect chance to get chatting with others on the same trip.

Should I do a stopover on route to Australia?

If you’re going to travel thousands of miles across the world you might as well make an even bigger adventure out of it! With Australia being so far away from almost any other country it is very common for travellers to stopover in Asia on their way down under. We often have individuals doing at least a couple of trips in Asia before or after they travel in Australia.

How long do I need to work & travel in Australia?

You can ask this question to 10 different people and get 10 different answers. The simple answer is what's right in front of you. If you have a 1 year working holiday visa planned for Australia...use it ALL! You will only get the chance once and once it’s gone...it’s gone! You can easily cover your bucket list spots in 3-6 months leaving you 6-9 months left for working.

If you plan to do your 2nd year visa we would suggest getting the travel out the way nice and early from Melbourne or Sydney upto Cairns. That way you can do your ‘Farm Work’ up in the sunny state of Queensland!

I want to work in Australia, where do I even start?

Finding work in Australia is actually a lot easier than you might think. Like everything you just need to know where to look, how to go about it and what to expect once you start. Preparation is the secret sauce when looking for work in Australia that’s for sure! The Welcome to Sydney & Welcome to Melbourne starter packages are the best and easiest ways to get started!

How much will I get paid working in Australia?

The idea of living next to the beach in a hot & sunny Australia is already convincing enough to jump on a flight half way across the world. But what if I told you the minimum wage is a whopping AUD $19.50+ per hour, pretty incredible right? With the endless opportunities Australia has to offer coupled with a healthy salary each month...why would you not do a working holiday in Australia?!

Do I need a visa to travel in Australia?

You sure will do! There are a couple of options and we suggest you organise this sooner rather than later!

If you plan on only travelling in Australia then you’ll need a ‘Visitor Visa’.

If you intend on working whilst travelling in Australia then you’ll need a ‘Working Holiday Visa’ (417) or ‘Work and Holiday Visa’ (462), depending on which country you’re from.

You can find out more and apply for your Visa via the Australian Government website . It’s a pretty simple process but as always, slide in the DM’s if you’d like some help and advice.

Feel Free Family

• Does anyone recommend any essentials for a 15 day trip to Thailand? 😊🇹🇭 4 Comments View
• Wooo! The countdown has begun 🙂! Who else is coming to Thailand Jan 22 2022! 2 Comments View
• Not much longer until I am back in one of the most beautiful places Thailand has to offer! Khao Sok National Park, we are coming for you! 🌊🏔 17 Comments View
• ‘Did we just become best friends!?’ 😆 4 Comments View
• Hey there! I'm not sure whether I can post this but I just wanted some advice about travel after the 15 day Vietnam trip that I'm going to do late next year. 9 Comments View
• Throw back to our epic times in Thailand.. it was amazing meeting all of you and the people on this trip really did make our adventure one never to forget! 2 Comments View
• Booked on to April 15 night tour, when would be the best time for booking flights? 2 Comments View
• I had the absolutely BEST time of my life last year when I went solo backpacking for the first time! It wouldn't have been nearly as fun or easy without the Feel Free family! 2 Comments View
• With the world starting to plan its re-opening...who’s pumped for travel!? 🏝 26 Comments View
• I'm looking to book sri Lanka for end of march next year. I've never done anything like this n never travelled alone before, so nervous and excited at the same time... 17 Comments View
• Has anyone got tips for sorting Visas out? 2 Comments View
• Anyone going to Thailand on the 12th of April? Got a group chat going if you want to join 😊🐘🇹🇭🙌🏻 6 Comments View
• Sri Lanka Feb 2022 crew… where you at?! ✌🏽🇱🇰✈️ 1 Comments View
• Hey guys 👋 I know that I'm not going to thailand till next year but what kind of luggage is best to take??🤦‍♀️🤷‍♀️ 4 Comments View
• Would just like to say a huge thank you to the guys for rearranging my Thailand trip. I have now booked Vietnam and Sri Lanka for 2022 and im very excited!! 2 Comments View
• So gonna be booking 15 day thailand tour with a friend on the 6th, for next summer. I can imagine anytime is a good time but is there a best time for the summer? 11 Comments View
• Hi everyone 👋🏼 I’ve just recently joined this group and I was wondering if anyone is booked for the 15 day trip to Thailand beginning of January... 6 Comments View
• Myself and Shelly Welly have just booked Sri Lanka for January 22 and Thailand/Vietnam for February 22, so excited!! 6 Comments View
• Hi everyone! Finally after months of searching I’ve found a tour that includes a bit of everything I want to do! Going to book the 15 day Thailand tour! 10 Comments View
• Waheeeeeey! Thailand feb 2022 who’s joining?! Got a couple of questions about flights Ect! So excited! 3 Comments View
• Hey everyone, New here and just booked to go to Thailand 🇹🇭 next November!!! So excited 😆🤗💓 7 Comments View
• need some help with packing information lol. How is everyone packing? Backpack and luggage 9 Comments View
• I miss my feel free family ❤ I CAN'T wait for Vietnam in March ✈🌍🙌 3 Comments View
• Last night with these absolute legends in Sri Lanka !!! 🇱🇰🌊🛺✌🏻✨ I have so much love for you guys !!!🥰 5 Comments View
• As requested by Mathew James Stirland, here is my photo book from Thailand. Was there exactly one year ago before all this covid mess 😩 7 Comments View
• Hey! Anyone booked on the Sri Lanka trip in April? 🇱🇰🤙 16 Comments View
• Baby Natalie getting a little bigger every time we see her! 🐘 4 Comments View
• Sri Lanka March booked ✔ 9 Comments View
• Have just booked onto the Sri Lanka tour for Feb 22! Super excited! Has anyone else? 🤩 5 Comments View
• My boyfriend and I are going to the Thailand 9 day tour with Feel Free!! May 23-31!! Let me know if anyone is going then. ☺️ 1 Comments View
• Hi guys, I was thinking of booking the 15 day Thailand trip, and I was just wondering if anyone who's done it had any advice/recommendations? 😊 7 Comments View
• Happy Anniversary legends!🌴 Exactly 1 year we landed in Bangkok to meet our new travel family 🙌🏻 Thanks everyone for making this trip so special❤️ 11 Comments View
• Just booked me and my man onto an October 2021 9 day Thailand trip. Wanted to do it for years so excited. First trip with feel free they have been so helpful already. 4 Comments View
• Awww can’t believe it’s been nearly a year since we were all in Sri Lanka for the first trip of 2020. Miss all you legends! Even you Ryan Kinsey 😉😘 7 Comments View
• The countdown is on for Thailand 🇹🇭 . Sent my last payment and I am pumped to see this incredible place 😍 1 Comments View

Australia INSPO

25 free things to do in sydney in 2024, 15 best day trips from sydney to take in 2024, 15 best beaches in sydney, australia in 2024, oz working holiday: 8 reasons you should do it, australia working holiday visa - everything you need to know, pack your bags... australia is opening, 18 reasons to start your gap year in melbourne, the best bits: east coast of australia, changes to australia working holiday visa, 20 awesome things to do in sydney, travelling in australia alone - is it safe, why you should take a gap year in 2024, 10 reasons why group travel is for everyone..., do it with confidence, deposits from £1.

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Unique Australian Adventure Tours for working holiday makers

Top backpacker destinations, alice springs, blue mountains, bondi beach, k'gari / fraser island, grampians national park, great barrier reef, great ocean road, whitsunday islands, top tour operators, adventure tours australia, fraser dingo 4wd adventures, intro travel, kimberley off road tours, mojosurf australia, stray australia, ultimate travel, under down under tours, wildlife tours australia, welcome to backpacker tours.

Backpacker Tours is a travel website for working holiday makers. The platform is filled with handpicked adventure tours, which are perfect for young backpackers on their trip down under. Search Backpacker Tours to find the best trips and travel packages. At Backpacker Tours, you’ll find bus tours and 4WD tours as well as welcome & arrival packages through to hiking tours . Whether your adventure starts in Whitsunday Islands and Fraser Island or in Melbourne and Sydney; you’ll find the right tour packages here.

Latest Backpacker Tours

Byron Bay Backpacker Tour

1 DAY BYRON & BEYOND PRIVATE TROOPY SURF JOURNEY

1 day byron & beyond private troopy surf journey by mojosurf australia.

Join Mojosurf on a Private Group Surf Journey around the beautiful and quiet Southern Byron and Ballina Shire beaches hunting the break of the day with your crew and local Mojo legend on hand. We’ll be cruising the beaches and hidden away spots in our epic Landcruiser Troop Carriers, checking out some iconic local highlights, pumping the tunes and teaching you all about the surfing culture as you get to dip your toe in the surfer lifestyle. 

Latest tour information:

• Budget: budget
• Length: 1 days
• Group size: 6 max
• Start: Byron Bay
• End: Byron Bay

or book direct Mojosurf Australia

Broome Backpacker Tour

10-day Broome to Darwin Kimberley tour

Price from $2,799

10-day Broome to Darwin Kimberley tour by Kimberley Off Road Tours

This tour takes you on an incredible journey through the Kimberley outback allowing you to experience nature, wildlife and endless adventure, as you make your way along the Gibb River Road. We bush camp throughout the tour, prepare all our own meals and sleep under the stars in a swag. Our vibe is relaxed and friendly; we want you to feel like you are traveling with a group of mates, and having the time of your life in one of the most beautiful parts of Australia. Your action-packed adventure begins with the sights between Darwin and Kununurra before your exclusive Lake Argyle private island camping experience. See the world-heritage listed Bungles; stay and explore El Questro station; this region lends itself to trekking and cooling-off in the most picturesque swimming holes. You’ll continue the journey along the Gibb River Road venturing into Manning Gorge, Galvans Gorge, Bell Gorge, Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek; before arriving at our final destination, the pearling capital of Broome.

• Length: 10 days
• Start: Broome
• End: Darwin

Book Direct

Cairns Backpacker Tour

11-day Kakadu and Gulf Savannah tour (Cairns to Darwin)

Price from $3,199

11-day Kakadu and Gulf Savannah tour (Cairns to Darwin) by Kimberley Off Road Tours

Come on an incredible journey through Kakadu, the Gulf country and the tropical rainforest; experience nature, wildlife and endless adventure, as you travel along the Savannah Way. It is all about seeing the outback the way it should be seen. We bush camp throughout the tour, prepare all our own meals and sleep under the stars in a swag. Our vibe is relaxed and friendly; feel like you’re traveling with friends, and having the time of your life in one of the most beautiful parts of Australia. Departing Cairns we head west into the mountains to swim at the picturesque Josephine Falls, before continuing to Kalkani crater and the unique Undara lava tubes. Heading into the Gulf Country you visit Frys crocodile, the historic mining town of Croydon, Leichhardt Falls, Burke and Wills most northern campsite 119, Lawn Hill gorge, Echo Gorge, Hells Gate and Lorella Springs. After plenty of exploring and swimming we stop at the Southern Lost City and Butterfly gorge. We follow the Roper River to Mataranka thermal pools or Bitter Springs before a few days exploring the world heritage listed Kakadu National Park. Our final stop is a wildlife cruise before arriving in Darwin.

• Length: 11 days
• Start: Cairns

Darwin Backpacker Tour

11-day Kakadu and Gulf Savannah tour (Darwin to Cairns)

11-day kakadu and gulf savannah tour (darwin to cairns) by kimberley off road tours.

Come on an incredible journey through Kakadu, the Gulf country and the tropical rainforest; experience nature, wildlife and endless adventure, as you travel along the Savannah Way. It is all about seeing the outback the way it should be seen. We bush camp throughout the tour, prepare all our own meals and sleep under the stars in a swag. Our vibe is relaxed and friendly; feel like you’re traveling with friends, and having the time of your life in one of the most beautiful parts of Australia. The adventure starts in Darwin and your first stop will be a wildlife cruise on the beautiful Corroboree Billabong before embarking on the world-heritage listed Kakadu National Park. We stop at the thermal pools of Mataranka or Bitter Springs before joining the Savannah Way. We follow the Roper River to the Southern Lost City, Butterfly Gorge, Lorella Springs, Hells Gate and Echo Gorge. We then carry on to Lawn Hill Gorge, Leichhardt Falls, and we visit the historic Burke and Wills campsite 119. After this we’ll stop to see Frys crocodile, the historic mining town of Croydon, the Udara lava tubes, Kalkani Crater and the picturesque Joesphine Falls before arriving in Cairns.

• Start: Darwin
• End: Cairns

Brisbane Backpacker Tour

15 Day Dingo Backpacker Tour: Brisbane > Cairns

Price from AUD$4,525

15 Day Dingo Backpacker Tour: Brisbane > Cairns by Stray Australia

Our 15-Day Dingo Tour will send you up the coast from Brisbane to Cairns, stopping off at backpacker favourites like Noosa and Airlie Beach. He’ll also show you some unreal secret spots off the beaten track!  Go on a 4WD safari, a 2 day sailing adventure, a wildlife spotting canoeing trip and make lots of stops on the way for walks, waterfalls and of course photo ops! 

• Budget: comfort
• Length: 15 days
• Group size: 24 max
• Start: Brisbane

or book direct Stray Australia

15 Day Roo Backpacker Tour: Byron Bay > Cairns

Price from AUD$4,695

15 Day Roo Backpacker Tour: Byron Bay > Cairns by Stray Australia

Our 15-Day Roo Tour will take you from Byron Bay to Cairns. You’ll explore the world’s largest sand island on a 4WD expedition, sail through the idyllic Whitsunday Islands and get off the beaten track at an historic village in Queensland.

• Length: 16 days

Hobart Backpacker Tour

2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour

Price from AUD$395

2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour by Wild Tasmania Tours

Embark on an epic 2-Day Cradle Mountain Tour from Hobart and dive headfirst into the enchanting world of Tasmania’s natural wonders! Get ready for an adventure-packed escape that promises an authentic and unforgettable experience.

Our carefully crafted tour is your passport to the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness, where you’ll strut your stuff through the World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain National Park. Brace yourself for jaw-dropping views of Tasmania’s most splendid waterfalls, including the legendary Russel Falls. But that’s not all – buckle up for a scenic joyride through Tasmania’s highlands, where every twist and turn unveils a new breathtaking landscape.

After a day filled with exploration, rest your adventurous soul in a cozy lakeside motel overnight. Picture waking up to the serenity of Tasmania’s wilderness right at your doorstep – it’s the stuff of dreams!

This tour caters to all you thrill-seekers with an adventurous spirit, eager to uncover the secrets of Tasmania’s iconic landscapes and national parks. Whether you’re up for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, we’ve got walking options for every fitness level. And fear not, whether you’re balling on a budget or looking for a swanky stay, our accommodations are tailored to fit your style.

Get ready to make memories, break a sweat, and fall in love with the untamed beauty of Tasmania – your 2-Day Cradle Mountain adventure awaits!

• Length: 2 days days
• Start: Hobart

Sydney Backpacker Tour

21 Day Emu Backpacker Tour: Sydney > Cairns

Price from AUD$5,395

21 Day Emu Backpacker Tour: Sydney > Cairns by Stray Australia

Our 21-Day Emu Tour takes you on an epic journey up the East Coast . From Sydney to Cairns, we’ll show you all the hot spots in between, plus some hidden gems!

• Length: 21 days
• Start: Sydney

3 DAY BYRON BAY BINTANGS AND BARRELS GROUP MISSION

3 day byron bay bintangs and barrels group mission by mojosurf australia.

We’re partnering with a bunch of other local legendary operators to bring the classic surf trip to you…and the beers are on us! Join us around the coast of Byron Shire for an epic and authentic Indo surf trip experience right on your doorstep! Experience boat cruises, fishing, daily Troopy surf sessions and (for the ballers), even a helicopter surf strike mission, all washed down with some ice-cold Bintangs! If this doesn’t get you frothing and kicking back Balinese-style, nothing will!

• Length: 3 days
• Group size: 10 max

3 Day Byron Bay Surf & Stay

3 day byron bay surf & stay by mojosurf australia.

The Byron Bay area is known not only for its great surf waves (perfect for rippers or learners alike), but also for its amazingly laidback lifestyle and the cool surf culture. So why not stay a few days, have a few surf lessons and see what this great beach town has to offer

• Group size: 8 max

Yulara Backpacker Tour

3 Day Uluru Adventure ex Yulara

Price from AUD$995

3 Day Uluru Adventure ex Yulara by Adventure Tours Australia

Experience the magic of the sunburnt Australian Outback in just three days.

• Start: Yulara
• End: Alice Springs

or book direct Adventure Tours Australia

Alice Springs Backpacker Tour

3 Day Uluru Adventure for Working Holiday Makers

3 day uluru adventure for working holiday makers by adventure tours australia.

Want to see the Red Centre’s greatest natural attractions in under three days? Easy. Jump on this trip and you’ll get to admire Uluru by sunrise and sunset, explore the natural wonders of Kings Canyon – the Lost City, Amphitheatre, Garden of Eden and North and South Walls – and weave through the gigantic boulders and gullies of Kata Tjuta. Experience the heart of the Red Centre with the best guides in the business who know the culture, people and Outback like the back of their hand. Spend you days gaining a deeper understanding into the spiritual importance of Uluru and its surrounds, and your nights camping on Australia’s red earth and dining under the stars.

• Start: Alice Springs

3 Night Uluru Adventure (Alice Springs to Yulara)

Price from AUD$1,195

3 Night Uluru Adventure (Alice Springs to Yulara) by Adventure Tours Australia

Want to see the Red Centre’s greatest natural attractions in less than 4 days? Easy. Jump on this trip, and you’ll get to admire Uluru by sunrise and sunset, explore the natural wonders of Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon – the Lost City, Amphitheatre, Garden of Eden and North and South Walls – and weave through the gigantic boulders and gullies of Kata Tjuta (the Olgas).

• Length: 4 days
• End: Yulara

3 Night Uluru Adventure (Yulara to Yulara)

3 night uluru adventure (yulara to yulara) by adventure tours australia.

With just the right amount of time to see all of the major highlights of the Red Centre, visit the majestic Uluru , Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon too. In the evening enjoy an authentic camping experience … with a soft landing. Save time and money by starting in Yulara, which is only minutes away from the Ayers Rock Airport and Uluru .

4 Day Wild Tasmania Tour

Price from AUD$825

4 Day Wild Tasmania Tour by Wild Tasmania Tours

Jump into a 4-day adventure extravaganza departing from Hobart, where we seamlessly weave together the charms of Tasmania’s East and West coasts. This small-group tour is your ticket to an epic journey through the most jaw-dropping natural wonders the island has to offer.

Prepare to be awestruck by the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain National Park, catch your breath at the iconic Russell Falls, and then venture forth to the spellbinding Bay of Fires, where vibrant orange lichen-coated rocks dance with the turquoise Tasman Sea.

But that’s not all – feast your eyes on the postcard-perfect views at Wineglass Bay and lose yourself in the pristine beauty of Freycinet National Park, where white sands and granite peaks play a symphony of nature’s marvels.

This tour is tailor-made for the adventure seekers, those with a spirit yearning to uncover Tasmania’s iconic landscapes and national parks. Whether you’re up for a breezy stroll or a heart-pumping hike, we’ve got walking options catering to all fitness levels. And worry not, whether you’re balling on a budget or craving a plush stay, our accommodations are ready to complement your style.

If you’re itching to dive into Tasmania’s wild beauty, look no further – secure your spot now, and get ready to hop on the bus for a wild ride through Tasmania’s untamed treasures!

• Length: 4 days days
• Group size: 13 max

Perth Backpacker Tour

5 Night Perth to Exmouth Adventure

Price from AUD$1,395

5 Night Perth to Exmouth Adventure by Adventure Tours Australia

• Length: 6 days
• Start: Perth
• End: Exmouth

7-day Kakadu and Arnhem Land

Price from $2,699

7-day Kakadu and Arnhem Land by Kimberley Off Road Tours

A 7-day adventure through Kakadu National Park & Arnhem Land seeing some of the best natural sites Australia has to offer. Immerse yourself in the local culture and learn about the traditions and beliefs of the aboriginal people. From Darwin, we’ll drive out to Corroboree billabong for a morning cruise before arriving in the world-famous Kakadu National Park to see two of Kakadu’s most-loved waterfalls. The Guluyambi Cultural Cruise on the East Alligator River is where an Aboriginal guide provides an insight into the local culture and mythology as well as bush survival skills. We’ll visit Arnhem Land’s Injalak Arts & Crafts Centre in Oenpelli where you’ll experience men painting and pandanus women weaving baskets. On the Cobourg Pennisula, we’ll take a boat across the water to the historic Victoria settlement. As we make our way back camp they’ll be an opportunity to make a catch for dinner! We’ll explore Garig Gunak Barlu Park by taking a visit to Smith Point Beacon, the nearby wetlands and a walk around Caiman Creek. Before arriving back on Darwin we’ll take in the sites at Mamukala Wetlands & Bird Hide and Fogg Dam.

• Length: 7 days

8 Day Koala Backpacker Tour: Sydney > Brisbane

Price from AUD$1,695

8 Day Koala Backpacker Tour: Sydney > Brisbane by Stray Australia

Our 8-Day Koala Tour is here to guide you from Sydney to Brisbane on a route like no other. Taking you into the rainforest and off the beaten track to quirky little towns, she’ll also bring you to hot spots like Byron Bay and Surfers Paradise.

• Length: 8 days
• End: Brisbane

9-day Darwin to Broome Kimberley Adventure tour

Price from $2,599

9-day Darwin to Broome Kimberley tour by Kimberley Off Road Tours

• Length: 9 days
• End: Broome

Adelaide Backpacker Tour

Adelaide to Melbourne Tour 3 DAYS

Price from AUD$565

Adelaide to Melbourne Tour 3 DAYS by Wildlife Tours Australia

Embark on a breathtaking journey through the heart of the Grampians National Park! Nestled between Adelaide and Melbourne, this park is famous for its towering mountain ranges, rugged peaks, and thundering waterfalls.

For three days, you’ll be surrounded by nature’s beauty, with comfortable accommodation in the heart of the Grampians where you’ll be greeted by kangaroos and cockatoos. You’ll also visit the stunning Shipwreck Coast and see the famous 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and other breathtaking locations.

The journey continues as we drive along the breathtaking Great Ocean Road to Melbourne, arriving in the early evening. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure and book your spot now.

• Group size: 21 max
• Start: Adelaide
• End: Melbourne

or book direct Wildlife Tours Australia

Backpacker tours in Australia

A popular option with both domestic and international travellers, a backpacker tour gives individuals the chance to travel light and cheaply at the same time as taking in some of the best backpacker tours which the country has to offer. There are an enormous variety of travel tours out there for adventurous people who want to make memories. Accessible on a limited budget, we take a look at some of the opportunities out there to make your Australian backpacking trip one to remember.

The East Coast Tour is an absolute must!

When it comes to adventure tours, travelling some or all of Australia’s east coast is an essential! Traditionally the trip spans the coast from Melbourne right up to Cairns (although travellers can start at either end of the coast, or travel smaller sections). The route passes through three states: Victoria, New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland.

Discover Victoria

Although traditionally the East Coast tour commenced at Sydney, a growing number of people are choosing to begin their adventure in Melbourne. Possibly one of the coolest cities on the planet, Melbourne has a laid-back yet sophisticated vibe which is almost irresistible. From the iconic Flinders station, through to the free street tram, numerous parks and intriguing architecture, Melbourne makes a great base from which to explore the surrounding area. It also benefits from an enormous number of restaurants, bars and clubs, where there are plenty of employment opportunities if you’re looking to supplement your travels with some additional cash. Close to the Wilson’s Promontory National Park, it’s also near Phillip Island (if you love penguins this has to be on your bucket list) and the Yarra Valley, well-known for its impressive vineyards and superior wines.

Move northwards to Fraser Island

The classic backpacking route for East Coast devotees is along Highway 1, which circumnavigates the entire country. Brisbane and the Gold Coast offer numerous opportunities for adventure tours and travel tours. If you’re near Brisbane, why not consider an expedition into the rainforest, or a driving tour in the local area? North of Brisbane, lying off the coast, is Fraser Island. The largest sand island on the planet, it’s the only sand island which also hosts a rain forest! Listed as a World Heritage Site, a tour of Fraser Island provides the opportunity to experience a unique, stunning natural environment.

Consider a tour of the Whitsundays

Located adjacent to the Conway National Park the Whitsundays are the perfect spot to enjoy anything from a snorkelling tour through to some turtle spotting. The Whitsundays are a popular location for day trippers and diving enthusiasts, as well as a haven for wildlife. If you’re visiting Whitsundays, a trip to Whitehaven beach is essential – as famous as Bondi, Whitehaven’s stunning fusion of white sand and blue ocean makes it an idyllic option. Many people choose to fly over Heart Reef, a tiny island which is, indeed, almost perfectly heart-shaped. If sailing is your passion, the Whitsundays are a great location to enjoy as part of a mini-cruise or a day on the water. From the Whitsundays, many people continue northwards towards Cairns and the chance to visit the Great Barrier Reef

Snorkelling tours around the Great Barrier Reef

The largest coral reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is a location of exceptional ecological importance as well as one of the most beautiful places on earth. A snorkelling tour is the perfect opportunity to explore this exquisite underwater landscape. Brightly coloured fish dart among the coral, creating a stunning seascape that’s absolutely unmissable. With more than 900 islands and 2900 reefs, the Great Barrier Reef is a must-visit destination. If snorkelling isn’t your thing, why not view the coral through one of the glass-bottomed boats which offer regular tours?

Travel inland to Alice Springs, or take an Uluru tour

Although the East Coast has an enormous range of sights and experiences on offer, no backpacking trip in Australia would be complete without a journey to the interior. A popular tourist destination, Alice Springs (NT) is located within driving distance of the legendary Uluru (Ayres Rock), an impressive sandstone monolith which is of enormous cultural importance to the indigenous Australian people. Uluru tours allow visitors not only to visit the rock itself, but also to take in some of the arid scenery which forms much of inland Australia as well as trips to Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. Alice Springs has plenty of attractions, including a Desert Park, reptile centre and some intriguing museums. A camping tour of these iconic locations is a great opportunity to get closer to the amazing plants and animals in the area.

Variety of backpacker tours available

The traditional image of a backpacker is that of an individual who mainly walks or uses public transport to reach their next destination. Contemporary backpackers often prefer a more diverse range of options when it comes to getting the most from their travelling. Adventure tours or travel tours are a good way of seeing more of what Australia has to offer, as well as giving access to unique experiences such as bush camping, snorkelling, sailing, off-road driving, outback tours and more. These can either be completed as trips in their own right, or as an add-on to a longer trip along the East Coast route.

An organised adventure tour can have many benefits

A package adventure tour provides the opportunity to enjoy many of the country’s most stunning areas in relative comfort. Frequently a tour includes specialist equipment and vehicles, enabling you to take part without needing to buy additional kit. Because you will be accompanied by an experienced guide, it’s possible to visit more remote and potentially dangerous locations safely. Guides also tend to have an in-depth knowledge of the local area, enabling you to find out more and get a much deeper insight into the location during your visit. If you want to get the most from your time backpacking, adding a suitable tour to your itinerary can be of real benefit.

Further reading:

Some useful information can be found at the official Tourism Australia website as well as the state and regional tourism sites. Here are just a few:

• Tourism Queensland
• Tourism NSW
• Tourism Victoria
• Tourism Western Australia

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• Fully Guided

Places You’ll See

• Save Now, Travel Later with Unlimited Date Changes
• Dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean at Bondi Beach
• Sail around the Opera House on Sydney Harbour
• Get up close to kangaroos
• Learn how to find full-time work in Australia
• Introduction
• Day 1-3 Welcome to Sydney
• Day 4-6 Byron Bay
• Day 7-8 Surfers Paradise
• Day 9-10 Brisbane

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

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Operated by INTRO Travel

Since 2005, we’ve been creating life-changing travel experiences for 18-40+ year olds. Our travel experiences are designed to help you connect, explore, taste and give back to the world, all whilst making an awesome bunch of new mates along the way. Travelling with INTRO isn’t just group travel - it’s a way of meeting friends who become family and of seeing the world in a respectful, caring and totally awesome way.

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Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.7
• Itinerary Excellent 4.8
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 4.8
• Accommodation Excellent 4.4
• Food Excellent 4.6
• Tour Operator INTRO Travel 4.8
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• KH Kaitlyn · 3rd February 2024 Amazing time, had an absolute blast! I will 100% be doing another tour. Val was a great tour guide, and helped me with every question I had. Trip date: January 2024
• KW Karlee · 28th January 2024 Our guide, Rhys, was the best and I’ve made sure we all had an amazing time. However, 27 people to one guide is just entirely too much, not to mention dangerous. Aside from that, my only further complaint is that Intro should be more picky about the... Show more Trip date: January 2024

• AH Alex · 16th November 2023 The tour was organised really well and Max was very friendly and helpful! My favourite place was Byron Bay - very relaxing and paddle boarding was lots of fun! Thank you Max for making the experience amazing :) Trip date: November 2023

• A Anonymous · 28th March 2023 The most amazing trip! It was awesome! Literally had the time of my life! Sarah my tour leader was amazing, very organised and super fun! Couldn’t have asked for a better tour! It was stress free and so much fun! So many many amazing memories that will... Show more Trip date: March 2023

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Frequently Asked Questions

The tour operator has advised that they do not have a list of optional excursions available for this tour, as the itinerary is already packed with plenty of included activities. If you need any help with booking activities when the tour is finished, the tour guides will be there to help out!

A single supplement can be requested for this tour at an additional cost, however, the tour operator highly recommends staying in the mixed dorms (6, 8 or 10 people), as this is the best way to get to know your group.

This includes all of your accommodation for the week, transport to the activities, all the tours and activities for the week and all the essentials such as your SIM Card, Bank Account, Medicare card and Tax File Number. The only things which are not included are the flights, food and drink.

I would suggest a backpack as it is easier to move about.

An airport arrival transfer is included in this tour, however, if you need to return to the airport at the end of your tour, your group leader will be able to help you arrange a transfer at your own expense.

If you are travelling with someone then that is no problem at all! Just let us know you are travelling together & we'll link you up so you are in the same group/room.

The age range for this tour is from 18 to 39 years old. This means that children under the age of 18 are not eligible to participate in this tour due to the nature of the tour and the included activities.

As a tour booking website, TourRadar cannot organise visas for you on your behalf as the visa requirements are regularly being updated and vary for the nationality of one traveller to the next. It is for this reason that we recommend checking with your local embassy or consulate website for the latest up to date information.

Of course, we can! Once you have a confirmed booking on this tour, we can request additional accommodation for you with the tour operator.

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• Currency $ Australian Dollar Australia

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, South Africa you will need an adaptor for type I.

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• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an infected area for Australia. Ideally 10 days before travel.
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MyFunkyTravel

Backpacking | Budget Travel | Living Abroad

Australia Backpacking Route

Our itinerary for backpacking Australia takes in six states, all the main cities, the best beaches, idyllic islands and loads of nature. It’s one of the safest destinations for first time backpackers with high class facilities and English as the main language. There’s a fairly well established Oz backpacker trail although more adventurous types won’t struggle to get off the beaten track given the size of the place. Read on for our suggested three month Australia backpacking route which you can easily shorten and pick sections of if you have less time.

Table of Contents

Backpacking australia – route info, 2. townsville & magnetic island, 3. airlie beach (gateway to the whitsundays), 4. agnes water, 5. hervey bay (for fraser island), 6. noosa (sunshine coast), 7. brisbane, 8. gold coast (surfers paradise).

• 9. Byron Bay

12. Melbourne

13. great ocean road.

• 14. Kangaroo Island

15. Adelaide

16. uluru (ayers rock), 17. alice springs, australia backpacking route – how long to spend in each place, 2024 update – how has backpacking australia changed in recent years.

TIME NEEDED – 2-3 MONTHS

The typical time for a backpacking trip around Australia might be in the region of 2 to 3 months. The route outlined below should fit that time-frame, although many travellers also turn a backpacking trip to Australia into a working holiday and stay for much longer.

POSSIBLE BUDGET: £5400 €6100 $6000

This is based on prices and exchange rates at the time of writing and works out at just over 9000 Australian Dollars but doesn’t include flights to Australia which can obviously be very expensive. It will obviously depend on your style of travel but Australia is an expensive country and even by staying in the largest dorms and taking the cheapest transport options, you will struggle to get by on much less than this.

Read more on the cost of travel in Australia for a look at sample prices and typical backpacking budgets in the country.

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR BACKPACKERS IN AUSTRALIA

The cost of travel insurance isn’t included in the budget figures above. You can get a quote in less than a minute from Heymondo who provide well reviewed travel insurance for backpacking Australia.

Note that you will want to consider which “high risk” adventure sports and activities are covered as these are popular in Oz. If you think you may require more extensive coverage, this rundown of the best travel insurance companies for backpackers  may help.

AUSTRALIA BACKPACKING JOBS & WORK EXCHANGES

One way to save money and potentially learn a few new skills whilst travelling in Oz is to look for work exchanges or short-term jobs. Sign up to Worldpackers to get access to work exchanges in Australia . You can get $10 off the annual membership fee by using the Worldpackers promo code “MYFUNKYTRAVELWP”.

We also have a section on work and travel which you may find useful.

Backpacking Australia – A 2-3 Month Itinerary

It may be a city and quite a decent one at that but Cairns is primarily a base for exploring some of nature’s great wonders. This is the best spot to check out the Great Barrier Reef, one of our ten once in a lifetime trips with plenty of scuba-diving options available for you to get close up to the coral. Thrill seekers will enjoy the opportunity to bungee-jump or sky-dive while the Wet Tropics Rainforest is another essential visit.

Sparsely populated Magnetic Island is reachable from Townsville. It’s good for jet skiing, bush walks and boozy nights and is Australia’s best destination for full moon parties . A very popular stop for party-loving independent travellers or those on an Australia backpacking tour. Things have been a lot quieter here in recent years due to the pandemic but should liven up in 2023 and beyond as backpackers return to Australia in larger numbers once more.

Airlie Beach is another of the best places to backpack in Australia with a very chilled out vibe in the day but also plenty of nightlife options with parties going on well into the small hours. The Whitsundays are gorgeous and are made up of 74 stunning islands. Don’t be surprised if you end up spending longer than you planned here!

This was the site of the original landing spot of Captain Cook in 1770 which was effectively year 0 for Australia as we know it today. It’s a nice spot to relax on the beach and read up on a bit of history at the Agnes Water Museum which documents the life of Cook and his voyages.

From late July to early November, Hervey Bay is a fantastic place to spot some whales. The other main reason to visit is to access Fraser Island and the southern Great Barrier Reef. Fraser Island is 120 km long and with a mild year-round climate and lots of beautiful scenery including crystal lakes and endless beaches, it’s a great place for camping out for a few days. Swimming isn’t recommended though due to dangerous tides and lots of hungry sharks.

Yet more glorious long sandy beaches and nearby national parks make Noosa another popular stop with backpackers in Australia. Make it to the Glasshouse Mountains and you will get a terrific panoramic view of the whole Sunshine Coast.

City lovers rejoice as this is the capital of Australia’s sunshine state and a good chance to stock up on anything you need at the 700+ stores in the city’s central shopping mall. It’s a lively city famed for its live music and large numbers of bars and clubs. With a relaxed riverside location, Australia’s third largest and fastest growing city generally leaves a positive impression on visitors and it has been chosen as the host of the 2032 Olympic Games.

Just south of Brisbane is Gold Coast, a city of around 500,000 people based as the name would suggest on the coast. Surfers Paradise is its touristy hub with an array of high rise structures, late night venues (some very seedy) and lots of drunk people. It’s a popular destination with Australian teens celebrating the end of high school. You’ll either love it or hate it.

9. Byron Bay

A relaxing beach setting and another essential stop for anyone solo backpacking Australia. Byron Bay is a popular place to learn to surf while you can also kayak alongside dolphins and even do a bit of skydiving if that’s your thing. Note that doing lots of these kinds of extra activities will quickly eat into your budget. Consider allowing a bit more than the suggested figures at the top of the page if that’s your plan.

The next stop on our Australia backpacking route is Nimbin which has gained a reputation as a bit of a hippy town and it’s a nice inland spot if you’re getting a bit sick of the whole beach thing. It can be visited on its own or on a day-trip from Byron Bay. The nearby Nightcap national park is home to an array of peaks, waterfalls and wildlife.

One of the most easily recognisable cities in the world thanks to the iconic Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Its setting is one of the best of any major city in the world and a boat trip or water-taxi in and around the Darling Harbour area is a must.

You could easily spend up to a week in Sydney exploring its different districts and just getting a feel for what life is like for locals and the thousands of foreigners who have made this their home. There are ways to experience culture in Sydney on a budget too, although prices are certainly high here.

With a distinctly different vibe from Sydney, Melbourne is less brash and maintains a European cultural vibe with plenty of quaint remnants of Britain. Melbourne is viewed by some as the sports capital of the world , with sports mad residents and major international events such as the Australian Open Tennis and Formula 1 taking place in the city as well as numerous teams in Australia’s sports leagues. There are also enough museums, galleries and theatres to entertain culture vultures while the multicultural population serves up a range of different cuisines.

Some of the best hostels in Melbourne are also good places to meet other travellers and perhaps make plans for a longer venture west. Options for trips out of town include a visit to Phillip Island where you can see the nightly penguin parade.

This 150 mile stretch of road that runs west from Melbourne features numerous points that are worth short visits but perhaps not overnight stays. These include traditional fishing villages, surfer beaches, lush rainforests and the bizarre cliff formation of the 12 Apostles.

For those backpacking Australia on a tighter budget or heading on to a New Zealand backpacking route , this may be a logical point to end your trip having seen the main cities and more than enough of Australia’s golden coastline. However for travellers who want the full Australian experience, the route continues through South Australia into the wilderness of Northern Territory before finishing in the Western Australian city of Perth. Get ready for some long (and expensive) journeys.

14. Kangaroo Island

A large island off the coast of Southern Australia home to an abundance of wildlife including – you guessed it – kangaroos! It’s a very scenic place and has a few different settlements so pick one and base yourself there for a few days whilst getting out and exploring the many nature reserves.

Adelaide is the capital of otherwise sparsely populated South Australia. It’s the fifth largest city in the country and although it might not have as much going for it as some of the other big ones it makes for a nice stop for a couple of days to break up the journey. This is also a big wine producing area so vineyard visits are popular.

The trip from here to Northern territory is also very long but you can break it up by visiting one of the many mining communities for a perspective on a less glamorous side to Australia which isn’t all about sun, sea and surfing.

Ayers Rock is a giant lump of earth in the middle of the world’s largest island. For some it’s an amazing sight, but non-rock lovers may end up moaning about the distance and time it takes to get here (although it does now have its own airport). It is found in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park which contains a couple of other sites that are considered sacred by Aborigines. You will have to stay outside the park though probably at the nearby resort of Yulara where camping is possible. It is also worth noting that climbing the rock is strongly discouraged by the local community.

There is a sense of achievement for anyone who reaches Alice Springs. Most people have heard the name but given that it is 1200 km from the ocean and 1500 km from the nearest city, relatively few make the long trip here. Alice Springs is a base for exploring the surrounding outback and learning about the extensive indigenous history in these parts.

Unless you have a sadistic love of coach journeys that last days then you will probably need to fly from Alice Springs to Perth but unfortunately there are no direct connections at the time of writing. Therefore it can set you back as much as 500 AUD to reach the city by air and anyone primarily focused on an doing an East Coast Australia backpacking route will need to consider whether it is really worth the cost and effort of heading this far west.

Perth is a large but relaxed place and incredibly isolated from the rest of the county’s urban areas. Days can be spent on the beach, cycling around the city or visiting nearby nature reserves. At night, enjoy a drink in one of the many pubs or delve into the indie or drum and bass music scenes.

On a slightly more positive note, as the westernmost city in Australia, ending in Perth will probably make your onward journey or trip home a fraction shorter and many major international airlines do fly in and out of the city. If you are planning on visiting New Zealand after Australia, it may be more sensible to do this trip in reverse and start in Perth before ending in Cairns.

Australia Map & Itinerary Overview

The map corresponds to the destinations listed above starting in Cairns and travelling south along Australia’s Pacific Coast before darting west across the country to end up in Perth. You can of course do the trip in reverse. If you’re pushed for times or funds, consider just doing Cairns to Melbourne or vice-versa.

The above is just a guideline and you can easily tailor it to your own interest levels. For those with a bit less time looking to do a 2 month Australia itinerary without rushing, consider following the route above but ending at the Great Ocean Road just south of Melbourne where you can backtrack to for a flight home.

The entire route may make for a nice 3 month Australia itinerary and would still give you a bit of leeway to stay longer in certain places you really like. If you do make it all the way to Perth, it’s worth noting that several days will be lost to just travelling from A to B so factor that in when planning your travels. Those with more than three months in the country, will be able to get off the beaten path a bit and discover some of the more unusual things to see in Australia .

In terms of combining backpacking in Australia with other countries in the region, New Zealand and Fiji are the most obvious options. The northern part of the country, where this route starts is very close to Indonesia and therefore it’d be easy to combine this with our backpacking route for Indonesia . There are loads of flights to/from Bali from all over Australia so it would link in nicely and would provide a bit of a contrast to your trip.

If you follow this route right through to Perth, you could consider flying on to South Africa or one of the East African countries such as Kenya. This would be a nice option, particularly for anyone who is doing a round-the-world trip and eventually flying home to Europe or North America. Alternatively you could fly back via Southeast Asia or take on our India backpacking route .

• Working Holiday Visas: Australia has always been perhaps the most popular destination in the world for backpackers seeking working holiday experiences. However, changes to visa regulations and requirements, as well as shifts in employment opportunities, have had a negative knock-on effect on the availability of backpacker jobs in certain industries such as hospitality, agriculture, and tourism.
• Budget Accommodation: The availability of budget accommodation for backpackers in Australia has evolved, with more options ranging from hostels and backpacker lodges to budget hotels and short-term Airbnb rentals. That being said, bargains are still hard to find and Australia is still a very expensive country to visit.
• Regional Tourism: While major cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane remain on most itineraries, there is more interest in exploring regional, off-the-beaten-path destinations in Australia. Travellers are venturing out to lesser-known regions, national parks and sometimes rural communities.
• Cultural Experiences: Backpackers are looking for more interaction with Indigenous communities with participation in Aboriginal cultural tours, festivals and events on the rise.
• Technology and Travel Apps: The popularity of travel apps and online platforms has transformed the way backpackers plan and navigate their trips in Australia compared to previous eras. From booking accommodation and transportation to connecting with fellow travellers, for better or worse, technology is now central to the Australian backpacking experience.

This Australia itinerary was last updated in September 2022.

5 thoughts on “ Australia Backpacking Route ”

Can a person of 57 backback and work in Australia if not can I do the backpacking and what kind of insurance would I need

Hi Sonia, there’s absolutely no reason why a person of 57 cannot backpack through Australia. We’ve an article here on travel insurance for backpackers . You may have to pay more than someone in their 20’s for insurance but you should still be able to find a suitable package.

The working holiday visa that many travellers get, appears to be limited to people under 30 or 35 (depending on your country) so you may not be able to do that but you may still be able to volunteer or do work exchanges where you get accommodation in exchange for your labour.

Hi if I was traveling from south east asia and wanted to come austraila where would I start..work and travel hopefully 1 ,2 years

Hi – Please could you send a time line for visiting each place like you have with the SEA? We are planning on going from Signapore onto Aus, would you suggest starting in Cairns? Many thanks 🙂

I’d suggest Cairns would be the best starting point. As mentioned the last part of the trip is quite lengthy and expensive just to visit two or three more places so if you’re worried about money lasting then maybe you could do Cairns to Melbourne and then decide if you wish to continue onwards. That said you could just as easily do Melbourne to Cairns and then fly on to Ayers Rock/Perth if you wanted. I guess it depends where you’re coming from and going next.

It terms of a breakdown perhaps something along the lines of:

Cairns 4 days, more if you want to do lots of diving. Magnetic Island 3 days Whitsundays 1 week. Less if you’re not fussed by beaches but they are beautiful islands.

Agnes Water 1/2 days Hervery Bay 2/3 days

Noosa 2/3 days Brisbane 2/3 days Surfers Paradise 1 day to 1 week depending on whether you love it or hate it! Byron Bay 3 days Ninbin 1/2 days Sydney 5 days Melbourne 4 days Great Ocean Road 2/3 days Kangaroo Island 2/3 days Adelaide 1/2 days Ayers Rock 2/3 days

Alice Springs 2/3 days

Perth 3/4 days

The coastal places at the beginning are pretty chilled out and you could easily hang around for longer if you so wished.

If anyone has any thoughts on that schedule or other suggestions then please comment!

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Global Gallivanting

Australia is blessed with natural wonders, great weather, friendly people, it’s is one of the best places in the world for a fun, safe and amazing backpacking adventure.

It’s a huge country and there are so many incredible places to visit in Australia , but without a doubt the East Coast is easily the best and most popular Australia backpacking route.

To help plan your trip here is the ultimate backpacking East Coast Australia itinerary which will take you through all the highlights from Melbourne up to Cairns!

Backpacking East Coast Australia is definitely one of the best things you can experience while in Oz. The East Coast offers so many iconic sights, epic experiences , stunning natural beauty and world class natural wonders, pristine beaches, ancient rainforests and reefs.

You’ll also experience cosmopolitan cities, a whole bunch of adventure activities to take part in and its easy to meet other backpackers in Australia and have a lot of fun along the way.

The Ultimate Backpacking East Coast Australia Itinerary: Melbourne – Cairns

I spent a year backpacking, working and living in Australia and I travelled the East Coast 3 times – first as backpacker ticking off the major sights, then I scored a relocation campervan deal for $1 a day and speed back down the East Coast in 7 days.

Then I went and worked in an outback pub which allowed me to save loads of money and enabled me to buy a campervan to take an offbeat road trip through the Outback and then travel the East Coast again, more slowly this time and checking out more off beat sights.

So thought I would put together my ultimate itinerary for backpacking East Coast Australia which lists not only the highlights but also my top tips, some off beat places to visit as well as including my favourite activities and backpacker hostels.

If you’re planning to do a working holiday in Australia download my free E Book to working in Australia , check out how I saved $15,000 on my working holiday and read my guide to Buying a Campervan in Australia and check out my East Coast Australia road trip itinerary

2023 Update – Australia has finally reopened after the Covid pandemic, check up to date entry requirements here. But many hostels closed during the pandemic, so now hostels are often fully booked and backpackers are sometimes struggling to find accommodation. I’ve checked that all the hostels I recommend are still open and advise booking in advance to secure your bed . More here on the situation for backpackers in Australia right now.

Quick Essential Info for Backpacking East Coast Australia

Most backpackers start their Aussie adventure in either Sydney or Melbourne . It’s a good idea to start in Melbourne, simply because then there’s less going back on yourself and you won’t miss out any of the highlights.

Budget for Backpacking Australia

Australia is an expensive country but there are plenty of backpacker hostels that can help you keep costs down, especially if you choose one with a kitchen so you can cook your own food. Budget at least AUD$100 (approx US 65 / £ 50 / € 60) per day for backpacking east coast Australia.

Best Time to Visit East Coast Australia

Anytime is good to visit East Coast Australia, however, if you come in Winter (June -August) it’s going to be cold in the South of Australia and so it would be best to do this trip in reverse and start from Cairns in North Queensland. In the Summer the opposite applies as tropical North Queensland can be humid and wet and marine stingers are more likely from November – April.

Where to Stay when Backpacking Australia

The most affordable accommodation option in Australia are backpacker hostels. There are loads of clean, fun, cool and sociable backpacker hostels all along the East Coast of Australia that offer cheap beds and are also  great for meeting other backpackers. Budget between AUD $30 – $50 per person per night for a bed in a dorm.

Australia’s backpacker hostels are sometimes more like backpacker resorts! Many have swimming pools, bars, cafes and organise social activities. Some even have onsite nightclubs and free meal and drinks deals. The best place to find and book backpacker hostels in Australia is on Hostelworld .

It’s a good idea to book in advance because beds in the best hostels do get sold out. Check out my recommendations for the best backpacker hostels on Australia’s East Coast here. 

Visa for Australia

It is usually quick, cheap and easy to arrange Australian visas online. You get can an ETA or E Visa for trips up to 3 months. Get more info and apply here. or if you want to work and travel in Australia for a year see if are eligible for a working holiday visa if you are under 31.

How to Travel around Australia

Australia is a big country so traveling around does take time and costs can add up. The most popular affordable transport option for backpacking East Coast Australia is the Greyhound bus. There is also Firefly Express Buses connecting some cities which is often cheaper than the Greyhound but has limited routes.

There are also trains and flights. Sometimes the cost of a flight on a budget airline like Jetstar can be similar to the bus or train and as the distances are huge flying can save you a lot of time. However, you’ll miss out on seeing much of the country if you just fly over.

A good place to compare your options and book bus, train and flight tickets in Australia is on 12Go . Sometimes it’s better value to purchase a bus pass instead of point to point tickets. The cost of a pass from Melbourne to Cairns is AUD$ 579 (about USD$ 375/ £ 300 / € 350 )   See more on Greyhound Passes here.

Renting a Campervan in Australia

Some backpackers buy or rent a campervan for the ultimate Aussie road trip. This is my favourite way of traveling around Australia as it offers the ultimate freedom and adventure. I use Drive Now to compare all the campervan rental companies to get the best deal.

If you’re planning to do an East Coast Australia road trip check out my post on it here.

Backpacker Tours of Australia

There’s plenty of day trips and multi-day tours which make traveling Australia super easy and fun. You’ll often join a small, like minded group too so it’s another great way to make more friends.

Often the best experiences are remote and in nature out of reach of public transport. So unless you have a car or campervan you’ll probably need the help of a tour company to get there.

The best places to find, compare and book activities and day tours are Get Your Guide and Viator . I like how you can read reviews on these sites so you know what to expect and can pick the best one.

If you don’t want to go it alone, the multi day tours designed specifically for backpackers are the best. You can also find a huge selection of Australia tours and read reviews from previous guests on Tour Radar.

The G Adventures 16 Day Most of the Coast – Sydney to Cairns is a fun and action packed 16 day tour with all the highlights from Sydney to Cairns especially for 18 – thirty somethings.

There’s more practical tips for backpacking East Coast Australia at the end of the article but for now lets get on with where to go for the Ultimate East Coast Australia Itinerary!

8 Must See Places on Australia’s East Coast:

There are loads of amazing Aussie experiences waiting for you. If you’re short on time (or money!) then these 8 places are the ones you simply can’t miss from your itinerary when backpacking East Coast Australia:

• Great Ocean Road
• Fraser Island
• Whitsundays Islands and Whitehaven Beach
• Cairn and the Great Barrier Reef
• Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation

Where To Go: The Best Backpacking East Coast Australia Itinerary from Melbourne to Cairns

So, from Melbourne – Cairns here’s best destinations and things to do when backpacking East Coast Australia, as well as some cool places to go if you want to get off the beaten track.

I’ve also listed my favourite backpacker hostels to stay at and also how long you can expect to spend traveling between the destinations. Australia is a big country – be prepared for some long bus rides when backpacking East Coast Australia but don’t worry – it will be worth it!

By the way, some of the links I’ve included to the hostels I stayed at and tours I took are affiliate links, if you find this post helpful and want to book then I can earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps to keep me travelling and to keep this blog running so thank you! 😊

Melbourne – 3 Days

The perfect place to start your backpacking East Coast Australia itinerary is Melbourne. A lively, trendy, cultural and cosmopolitan city that is also within easy reach of some amazing natural beauty.

Melbourne is the most European city in Australia and is known as Oz’s cultural capital of cool. The jury’s out about which city is better – Melbourne or Sydney – so you will just have to visit both and decide for yourself…

Spend at least 3 days in Melbourne.

Things to do in Melbourne

Melbourne is a fun city to explore. Ride the trams and check out the famous Flinders Street Station, historic architecture and lovely riverside. Soak up the views over the city from the Eureka Tower, the Southern Hemisphere’s tallest observation deck. Make sure you explore the hip laneways and check out the art galleries, museums, sporting venues, markets and food scene.

Hang out at the beach in hip St Kilda, check out the famous colourful beach huts at Brighton beach and have fun on the rides at retro Luna Park.  And if you’re a fan of the Aussie soap and Tv series, Neighbours, Melbourne is where you can do the Neighbours tour.

Renting a car and driving the Great Ocean Road, or at least taking a day trip out to see the highlights, is a must do while in Melbourne. one of the best things to do in Australia.

Some other cool things you can do from Melbourne include visiting Phillip Island to see the Penguin Parade and going wine tasting in the scenic Yarra Valley.

Read more about backpacking Melbourne in my Backpacker’s Guide to Melbourne.

Best Backpacker Hostels in Melbourne

Melbourne central yha .

A large, popular, modern hostel in a great central location close to all the cities attractions. The hostel has a sports bar, BBQ rooftop space with city views and is always buzzing with backpackers and has plenty of activities to help you get to know other travellers. Book here

Home at the Mansion

This is Melbourne’s fanciest hostel located within a grand, heritage building in East Melbourne. It’s easy to access the city centre from here due to the free city circle tram. Rooms have plenty of natural light and even have flat screen TVs.

There’s only 16 rooms here so it offers a much more personalised experience but there are still plenty of social activities on offer.   This hostel in the heart of Melbourne and is a really friendly and popular place that has won many awards. Book here

Base St Kilda

If you prefer to be near the beach and the quirky old fashioned Luna theme park then check out Base St Kilda.  Base hostels are modern, funky and are often party hostels. Each backpacker gets a free drink voucher on arrival and Base St Kilda has a bar which hosts events every night and a free barbecue every Tuesday night. Book here

The Great Ocean Road – 2 Days

When in Melbourne you can’t miss  The Great Ocean Road. This is one of the best coastal drives in the world, famous for the magnificent Twelve Apostles and its constantly changing coast line and famous surf beaches.

You can do the Great Ocean Road as a quick day trip from Melbourne but there’s a lot more to see than just the 12 apostles so if you have more time its worthwhile hiring a car or campervan and spending a few days soaking up the scenery and discovering all the other secrets the route holds along the way. See here for more details on the route.

Other day trips from Melbourne

Other things to do and day trips from Melbourne including soak up the scenery and sample the wine, chocolate, cheese, ice cream, beer and other amazing gourmet foods in the Yarra Valley. You won’t want to drive for this one but this tour visits all the best places and is aimed at backpackers.

Also, visit Phillip Island to see the cute Penguin Parade and the historic gold rush towns of  Ballarat  and  Bendigo .

Melbourne to Sydney

The next essential stop when backpacking East Coast Australia is Sydney. Most backpackers go straight from Melbourne to Sydney but you can also take a stopover to see  Australia’s often overlooked capital  Canberra , a purpose built city with many great museums.

It’s 13 hours on the bus from Melbourne to Sydney so you might also want to check 12Go and see if you can get a cheap flight between the two cities if you are short on time. Sometimes it’s not much more than the bus.

The coastal route from Melbourne to Sydney is also nice and not many backpackers see it. You’d have to rent a car or campervan to do it as the Greyhound Bus doesn’t go here.

You could rent a camper in Melbourne, do the Great Ocean Road and then drive to Sydney and drop it off there. You could rush through it in 3 days but spending 5 – 7 days would be better.

The highlights along this route are the Gippsland Lakes – Australia’s biggest inland waterway, Croajingalong national park and the beaches along Sapphire Coast, especially Jervis Bay and stunning  Hyams Beach only about 3 hours south of Sydney . See more info about the route from Melbourne to Sydney here

Sydney – 3 Days

Sydney is a place that should not be missed from any Australia itinerary. Blessed with natural beauty, a stunning harbour and world class beaches, Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and also home to some of Australia’s most famous sights.

Things to do in Sydney

There’s so much to do in Sydney you’ll need to spend at least 3 or 4 days here just to see the highlights. Don’t miss iconic sights like the Sydney Opera House , climbing the Harbour Bridge   and relaxing or learning to surf on Bondi Beach.

Also make time to explore the beautiful harbour and nature, take the spectacular cliff top walk from Bondi to Coogee and catch a ferry trip to Manly and do the scenic Manly to Spit walk.

Read more tips for backpacking Sydney in my Backpacker’s Guide to Sydney.

Day Trips from Sydney

The UNESCO listed Blue Mountains make a great day trip from Sydney ( this is good trip for backpackers ) or a few days escape from the city.

The Hunter Valley is Australia’s oldest wine region and also has gourmet chocolate, cheese and other foods and rolling countryside to enjoy.

Most wineries offer free tastings and its easy to do a day tour from Sydney or Newcastle because you’re not going to want to drive for this one!

This Hunter Valley trip  includes tasting not only wine but also chocolates, cheeses and includes a gourmet lunch.

Best Backpacker Hostels in Sydney

Sydney harbour yha.

You can’t beat the views from the rooftop of Sydney Harbour YHA. This award winning backpacker hostel is located in a heritage building right in the historic rocks district and offers easy access to all the cities sights.

You don’t even have to leave the hostel to enjoy stunning views over Sydney harbour and Opera House from the rooftop. The dorms and private rooms are all clean, air conditioned and have private bathrooms and there is also a café, bar, heated pool, sauna, cinema and lots of free activities.

They also run one of Sydneys best pub crawls and have regular $1 meal deals.  No wonder its consistently rated as the best backpacker hostel in Sydney. Book in advance to avoid dissappointment!

Bondi Beach House YHA

If you fancy being closer to the beach then check out Bondi Beach house YHA . The hostel is only 5 minutes walk from famous Bondi Beach.

It’s great value because they offer surfboard hire as well free gear for a fun day on the beach including snorkelling equipment, body boards and equipment for beach volleyball, cricket and football.

Dorms and private rooms are available and there’s also a kitchen, movie room, table tennis and awesome roof terrace with views over the ocean. Book here

Another really popular Sydney backpacker hostel. It’s opposite the Central Station making it really convenient to reach the airport and the centre of Sydney. There’s mixed dorms, female dorms and private rooms most with big windows and lots of natural light.

Wake Up has a on site bar and nightclub, café and bistro as well as a shared kitchen and lounge with movies on every night. There are also loads of free activities so you’ll make heaps of friends in no time. Book here

Sydney to Byron Bay

If you are short on time then the next essential stop on your backpacking East Coast Australia itinerary is Byron Bay.

If you want to save time then you might want to fly to Brisbane (but don’t skip Byron Bay its only 2 hours from Brisbane on the express bus.) The bus from Sydney to Byron Bay takes about 13 hours but you could also break up the journey and spend a few days in Newcastle or Yamba on the way.

Port Macquarie , Nambucca Heads and Coffs Harbour are pleasant enough coastal towns to stop for the night but compared to the show stoppers further up the coast shouldn’t keep you too long.

Get off at Newcastle (about 3 hours north of Sydney) New South Wales easy going 2 nd city home to great heritage architecture, beaches and surf spots.

The Newcastle Beach YHA is the best hostel in town and offers free surf and bodyboard hire. It’s also the closest base to depart on a gastronomic journey through the Hunter Valley wineries.

About 45 mins from Newcastle, is Port Stephens, Nelsons Bay and the Tomaree Peninsula, home to some extraordinary sand dunes (that you can sand board on), the Worimi Conservation Lands, deserted beaches, national park and the dolphin capital of Australia.

Yamba about 1.5 hrs before Byron is a nice, laid back place with great beaches and surf and the nearby world heritage listed Iluka Nature Reserve is worth a stop, especially if you like surfing. Stay at the new Yamba YHA.

Byron Bay – 3 Days

Byron Bay is one of the most popular places on Australia’s east coast that entices backpackers to stay longer than expected with it’s hip, bohemian, alternative vibe, beach lifestyle and amazing surf. You’ll want to spend at least 3 days in Byron but many backpackers end up staying much longer.

Things to do in Byron Bay

Stroll along Cape Byron to the Byron Bay lighthouse at Australia’s most easterly point. Surf, dive, kayak with dolphins, enjoy the beaches, take a yoga class, massage or indulge in some alternative therapies, shop for great, organic food at a farmers market and check out the towns many excellent eateries.

Day trips from Byron Bay

A must do for backpackers is taking a day trip on the Happy Coach out to the hippie village of Nimbin to check out the Nimbin museum, art gallery and hemp embassy.

If you want to get a real feel for this alternative community you can even stay there a few days. Try Wwoofing to volunteer on an organic farm to stay at the Nimbin Rox YHA which has a magical setting in tropical nature with a pool, yurts, tepees as well as dorms with mod cons.

Another cool thing to do is climbing Mount Warning and being the first in Australia to see the sunrise is also a memorable experience worthwhile for the amazing views.

Best Backpacker Hostels in Byron Bay

Arts factory.

I loved The Arts Factory, it’s a unique, super cool, quirky, colourful, hippie complex set in a private subtropical forest with a pond about 10 minutes walk from the town center.

There’s a swimming pool and hot tub, spa, cinema, restaurant, kitchen, beer garden, yoga classes, workshops and even a recording studio. You can stay in dorms and also teppees and there’s often jamming, fire twirling and other entertainment happening in the evening. Book here

Cape Byron YHA

If you prefer to stay closer to town then check out Cape Byron YHA which is only 200 yards from Main Beach. There is a big heated swimming pool, BBQ area, café and common areas and they offer free bicycle, surfboard, boogie board hire. Book here

The Gold Coast – Brisbane – The Sunshine Coast

After Byron Bay it’s only about 1 hour to The Gold Coast, home to great beaches, theme parks, skyscrapers and glitzy Surfers   Paradise .

Things to do on the Gold Coast

There’s lots to enjoy on the Gold Coast including surfing, shopping, and enjoying the theme parks, sunny climate and nightlife.

If you want to do lots of theme parks and attractions then you can save money with a  Gold Coast flexi attractions pass.

Day trips from the Gold Coast

If you prefer nature you could also use the Gold Coast as a base to explore inland and visit the three World Heritage-listed national parks:  Tamborine Mountain, Springbrook  and  Lamington .

The Best Backpacker Hostel on the Gold Coast

Bunk surfers paradise.

It’s only 5 minutes walk from Surfer’s Paradise Beach and has a swimming pool, hot tub, kitchen, lounge, AC  and free Wifi (the later two are saldy not included in every hostel on the Gold Coast) The dorms are really modern and clean with bunk pods for privacy and ensuite bathrooms. The staff are fun and there are lots of social activities and bar crawls. Book now!

Brisbane – 2 Days

The capital of the sunshine state of Queensland – Brisbane is Australia’s third largest city. Brisbane is an easy going, cultured and cool city blessed with an enviable climate, many outdoor activities and just a short hop away from some fabulous beaches, islands and nature.

Things to do in Brisbane

Brisbane’s attractions centre around the winding Brisbane river and the lovely Southbank parklands , streets beach and museums and galleries. 2 days is enough to see Brisbane’s main attractions.

Visit the Castlemaine XXXX brewery , cuddle a Koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and for a great view over the climb the walking trails up to Mount Coot-Tha lookout.

Day trips from Brisbane

You can also use Brisbane as a base to do many day trips and tours around the nearby area and to the theme parks and attractions on the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast and visit famous Australia Zoo.

Also worth exploring are Morten, Stradbroke or Bribie Islands and the lush rainforests and waterfalls in the hinterland like the Glasshouse Mountains National Park.

For more see my Backpacker’s Guide to Brisbane. 

Best Backpacker Hostels in Brisbane

Brisbane city yha.

There are a number of decent hostels on Upper Roma street conveniently near the Roma Street Transit Centre. The best is Brisbane City YHA , a modern, clean and large hostel near to the centre and Roma Street Transit Centre. There’s a small rooftop pool and roof terrace with nice views over the river. There’s a large communal kitchen, café, bar, games room, TV lounge and activities. Book here.

Bunk Backpackers

Bunk Backpackers is a funky, modern award-winning party hostel in trendy Fortitude Valley close to Brisbane’s best nightlife with a happening onsite bar, swimming pool and hot tub. They’ll also put on a free shuttle service from Roma St Transit Centre if you ask it in advance. Book here

Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is less developed and more sophisticated than the Gold Coast.

Spend sun drenched days exploring the long, golden beaches, surf or just chill out in chic and charming  Noosa (about 2 hours on the bus from Brisbane) enjoy the watersports and explore the Noosa everglades.

The nicest hostel is Noosa Flashpackers , a chic, stylish and relaxed hostel resort with a pool. It’s only 5 mins from the beach but they put on a free shuttle service too. If you like to party stay at fun and lively  Nomads Hostel.

Fraser Island – 2 Days

After the Sunshine Coast, the next place you can’t miss from any backpacking East Coast Australia itinerary is World Heritage-listed Fraser Island.

It’s the largest sand island in the world where you can explore miles of white beaches, turquoise oceans, rainforests and sparkling lakes, rusting shipwrecks and wild dingoes. It’s a unique and  essential Australian experience.

How to visit Fraser Island

The pleasant coastal towns of Rainbow Beach (3 hours on the bus from Noosa) and Hervey Bay (6 hours from Noosa) and are both good jumping off points for Fraser Island.

Rainbow Beach is a nice place to hang out and Hervey Bay is also one of the best places in the world to  see humpback whales  on their migration . ( This is the whale watching tour I took , it was awesome how close they got!)

I stayed at Colonial Village YHA in Hervey Bay – another awesome resort style Australian backpacker hostel with loads of facilities 2 mins from the beach.

Tours of Fraser Island

There are a few ways to see Fraser Island. You can take a  day tour of Fraser Island  but it’s better to spend at least a few days and nights exploring Fraser Island, trekking, swimming and camping out on the sand dunes under the stars.

You can hire a 4WD get the ferry across and explore independently (don’t get stuck in the sand!) go with a group as part of a self drive ‘tag along’ tour or take a fun tour especially for backpackers.

The 2 day, 1 night camping trip with Cool Dingo tours is really fun!

Fraser Island to The Whitsundays

The next essential stop on any backpacking Australia route is Airlie Beach for the gorgeous Whitsunday Islands which is about 13 hours on the bus.

If you want to see more on the way then you could check out Bundaberg ( 2 hours from Hervey Bay) and/ or Town of 1770 and Agnes Water ( 4 hours from Hervey Bay)

As you pass through the Queensland countryside you’ll see miles and miles of fields of sugar cane. They make the iconic Bunbarberg (Bundie) Rum from this sugar cane and you can tour the famous Bundaberg distillery to see how they do make this famous Queensland tipple!

The  Town of 1770 , named after the year it was discovered by Captain Cook and was the first western settlement in Australia, and nearby Agnes Water make nice places to break the journey.

Both are cute, small seaside towns with some good surf beaches and probably the cheapest surf schools in Australia. Reef to Beach Surf School charges only $17 for a 3 hour lesson with all equipment included. Also do the fun scooteroo tour and explore nearby Deepwater in Eurimbula National Parks.

Stay at Backpackers @ 1770   a friendly, chilled out, home away from home hostel only 2 mins from them beach. They’ll even pick you up for free from the bus stop if you book in advance.

It’s about 10 hours on the bus from Agnes Water to Airlie Beach. If you want to break up the journey you could stop at the towns of Rockhampton and Mackay but they don’t have all that much to offer.

Rockhampton is a good jumping off point for the Southern Reef Islands and Capricorn Caves , spectacular above-ground caves in a limestone ridge. You could also go and stay on a cattle station like Myella Farm and try farm experiences like milking cows, riding horses and motorbikes and even whip cracking and lassos.

From Mackay you can head inland through the beautiful Pioneer Valley to Eungella National Park which is one of the best places in the world to spot a Platypus in the wild (but you can get to here from Airlie Beach as well.)

Airlie Beach and The Whitsunday Islands – 1 Day

Airlie Beach  is a bit of a party town and backpacker hangout and is the jumping off point for exploring the beautiful  Whitsunday Islands  , one of the most stunning sights on East Coast Australia.

Seeing the view from the famous  Hill Inlet  and spending time on unbelievably beautiful  Whitehaven Beach is a must – this has been voted one of the best beaches in the whole world and is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. Don’t miss it from your East Coast Australia itinerary!

How to visit the Whitsundays

To explore the Whitsundays you can do live aboard trips  cruising and sailing and diving the Whitsunday Islands are popular (and pricey)

If you’re on a budget then you can also take a day trip with Ocean Rafting like I did for a really fun and cheaper option.

Airlie Beach is also one of the most beautiful locations in the world to do a skydive!

Where to stay

There are many lively backpacker hostels in Airlie Beach ,  Nomads  is the best, its more like a resort with a nice swimming pool set in tropical gardens, cute chalets, a communal kitchen and lively bar with plenty of activities in the middle of all the action.

Most of the  resorts on the Whitsunday Islands  are amazing but expensive, but you can camp on some islands for a little as $5.95 per person per night ( get a permit first here )

Townsville and Magnetic Island – 2 Days

Townsville, about 4 hours on the bus from Airlie Beach, is a pleasant coastal town but the real draw is just across the water at beautiful  Magnetic Island .

Over half of the mountainous island is national park and Magnetic island has lots of scenic walks and chances to see wildlife as well nice beaches. I saw kangaroos, wallabies, koalas in the wild and even rode horses on the beach and bareback in the sea at Horseshoe Bay Ranch

If you have more time you could use Townsville as a base to visit  Charters Towers , a historic gold rush town or Wallaman Falls , Australia’s highest single drop waterfall near Cardwell.

Best Backpacker Hostels in Townsville and Magnetic Island

There are two great resort style hostels to choose from on Magnetic Island. If you’re an animal lover stay at Bungalow Bay Koala Village YHA – a lovely hostel resort with it’s own wildlife park near the beach at Horseshoe Bay.

If you’re more of a party person then stay at Base Backpackers a party hostel on the ocean front at Nelly Bay that holds full moon parties.

Both hostels have swimming pools and welcome campers as well and offer package deals including ferry transfers, accommodation, free snorkel hire, welcome drink and more.

If you want to stay in Townsville stay at Adventurers Resort, a sociable motel style hostel in a great central location with a lovely panoramic rooftop pool

Townsville to Cairns

Most backpackers go straight from Townsville to Cairns, but chilled out Mission Beach (3 ½ hours on the bus from Townsville) makes a nice stop.

Mission Beach consists of several lovely bays, beaches and small communities surrounded by world heritage listed rainforest. Apart from the beaches you can also visit Dunk Island.

Mission Beach is also a great place for adventure sports like Skydiving, diving and snorkelling and also don’t miss white water rafting in nearby Tully. 

Also, keep an eye out for Cassowary birds that are found only in this area, the Daintree Rainforest and parts of Papua New Guinea.

Stay at Jackaroo Treehouse a rustic, chilled out hostel in the rainforest at Bingil Bay. The hostel is 10 mins from the beach and there’s a bar, kitchen, pool, free breakfast, free bike and surfboard hire and free pick up from the bus stop.

From Mission Beach its only about 2 hours on the bus to Cairns

Cairns – 3 Days

Cairns is one of the most popular destinations when backpacking East Coast Australia and another must see to include in your itinerary. Cairns is where most backpackers start or finish their trip backpacking East Coast Australia and has become quite a party town.

Things to do in Cairns

Cairns doesn’t really have a beach but the esplanade and Cairns Lagoon is a great place to hang out and swim, BBQ and play sports.

Many hostels and pubs do cheap backpacker meals and the night markets on the esplanade are a good place to get cheap Asian food.

There’s loads to do in and around Cairns but its most famous for being the gateway to the  Great Barrier Reef. 

Of course a trip snorkelling or diving the Great Barrier Reef is a must do when in Cairns, you can take a day trip or a multiday live aboard trip will allow you to get further out on the reef and some also offer night diving.

Be aware that sadly some of the inner reef areas closer to Cairns are damaged, the cheaper companies may only be licensed to visit the inner reef so it pays to be selective for which tour you take – both to get the best out of your experience and to use companies that help to preserve the reef for the future. This is the day tour I took and recommend.

A good place to find reputable tour operations and check reviews is Viator .

Spend at least 3 days in and around Cairns. For more info see my Backpacker’s Guide to Cairns.

Day trips from Cairns

Also, don’t miss the beautiful scenery inland from Cairns too, explore the waterfalls of the Atherton Tablelands (the Uncle Brian’s tour is most fun for backpackers)

Also visit the arty, alternative town of Kuranda nestled in the rainforest. Kuranada’s markets and art galleries are popular, its only 20 mins on the bus from Cairns but you can also make getting there part of the fun by taking the cablecar or scenic railway as part of a Kuranda day trip.

The AJ Hackett Bunjy jump and Minjin swing is a thrilling way to enjoy the rainforest and don’t miss visiting Unesco listed Daintree Rainforest (one of the oldest rainforests in the world) and Cape Tribulation. Many tours also include a visit to the important aboriginal site at Mossman Gorge enroute. This is the tour I took.

You can often save money by buying a package deal . This super saver deal includes Great Barrier Reef Diving and Snorkeling Cruise, Kuranda Scenic Railway and a trip to Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation.

Best Backpacker Hostels in Cairns

Gilligans backpacker resort.

Cairns is a backpacker hotspot with loads of hostels to choose from. If you’re looking to party then Gilligans Backpacker Resort is the place to go. This huge hostel has a lagoon style swimming pool, outdoor bar, a nightclub and shows sports on the large screens. There’s a kitchen and guests can also take advantage of the $5 evening meal deals. Book here.

The Northern Greenhouse

For a more peaceful stay, check out this well run, modern, clean and centrally located hostel with spacious ensuite dorm rooms, a swimming pool, outdoor movies, pool tables. There’s social areas and free activities including a free BBQ on Sunday but its not too noisy like the party hostels. Book here.

Tropic Days Backpackers

This is a smaller, quieter hostel with a more intimate homely feel. There’s a nice pool, garden with hammocks, lounge, kitchen and BBQ area. It’s a bit further away but there’s a free shuttle into town. More info here

More Tips for Planning your East Coast Australia Itinerary

When’s the best time to backpack east coast australia.

Backpacking East Coast Australia is always a good idea and it’s possible at any time of year. Remember that Australia’s seasons are the opposite from the Northern Hemisphere. It’s best to visit the North of Australia in Winter and Southern Australia in Summer.

Be aware that in winter (June – August) it does get pretty cold in the South especially in Melbourne and the Summer (Nov – April) is the rainy season in Tropical North Queensland and can see tropical storms and marine stingers. Most beaches have stinger enclosures and you can also hire stinger suits so it needn’t stop you enjoying the water. Read more here about stingers.

You could do this backpacking East Coast Australia route in either direction, if it’s winter then I would recommend starting off in tropical north Queensland and working your way down to the colder South.

If it’s Summer then either Melbourne or Sydney are popular starting points and then work your way up North, hopefully you can miss the worst of the rainy/stinger season.

 How long do you need for backpacking East Coast Australia?

Many people don’t realise just how huge Australia is. The distance between Melbourne and Cairns on the coastal route is  over 3,500km   which is over 40 hours of solid driving time and more on the bus.

I would recommend a minimum of 2 weeks for backpacking East Coast Australia and seeing the highlights but a month is better and will give you more time to discover those off the beaten track surprises, chill out a bit of the way, meet people and have the time to learn new skills like surfing and diving.

Cost of Backpacking East Coast Australia

There’s no denying that Australia is one of the most expensive countries to backpack and long distances mean costs can quickly add up.

I recommend budgeting at least AUD$100 a day for a backpacking East Coast Australia.

Luckily the country is well set up to appeal to backpackers and budget travellers and backpacker buses, hostels and tours can help you to keep costs low and still have fun.

In Australia it can be a good idea to buy a backpacker package deal with transport, activities and sometimes accommodation included, you’ll save money and usually still be able to stay flexible.

Most hostels have kitchens so you can buy food in the supermarket and cook for yourself to keep costs down. Also, some of the best things to do in Australia are natural wonders which are free to enjoy.

Have a look at this super useful post from Backpacker Banter on the Cost of Backpacking Australia and my post on   101 Money Saving Tips for Backpacking Australia

Visas for Australia

Expect for New Zealanders, all visitors to Australia need to obtain a visa before entering Australia but don’t worry, this is an easy process. There are 3 main Tourist visas for Australia.

If you are from the USA, Canada, UK, EU countries, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan or Singapore you can apply for an  Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) visa  for visits of up to 90 days.

These are quick to process and are electronically linked to your passport so there’s no need to send your passport away. The visa costs $20, apply online through  the government website  

For UK and most European citizens can apply for an E Visitor Visa which allows you to stay for 3 months and is free. You can see more information and apply here.

Other nationalities will need to apply for a Visitor Visa (sublass 600) This allows you to stay for 3, 6 or 12 months and costs from AUD140 to AUD1020. See more info and apply online here.

If you want help with your visas or make the process quicker and easier you can use a agent – I use  iVisa .

If you want to stay longer and immerse yourself in Aussie culture and earn some money for further travels then maybe consider a years  working holiday visa  then  download my free backpacker’s guide to see if you are eligible for a working holiday visa 

Different Ways to Backpack East Coast Australia

For the ultimate road trip backpacking East Coast Australia in a campervan is an amazing experience. There are loads of campervan hire companies in Australia and you can usually arrange to rent the campervan in one city and arrange to drop it off in a different city (usually for extra cost).

The best site for comparing campervan rental prices is  DriveNow.com.au  which compares prices from all the leading rental companies so you can make sure you’re getting the best deal. If your flexible then also check out how you can  rent a campervan for only $1 per day by scoring a relocation deal.

I spent more than $500 on fuel each time I’ve travelled the East Coast but a campervan will also save you money on accommodation and tours however contrary to popular belief you can’t just camp up and sleep anywhere. There are many free or low cost campsites all across Australia, you can find free campsites with the  Camps Australia Wide book  and the   Wiki Camps App 

If you plan on backpacking Australia for longer (perhaps on a  working holiday visa ) and can afford the upfront cost then buying a campervan and selling it at the end of your trip can be a really cost effective way to explore Oz which also offers the ultimate freedom and flexibility.

Read my other posts on  How to buy a campervan in Australia  and my top tips on traveling Australia in a campervan.

Greyhound Bus Passes

The cheapest and most popular way for backpackers to travel East Coast Australia is by the Greyhound Bus. It has a pretty comprehensive service nationwide that covers all the major cites and places of interest. You can buy point to point tickets but its better value to buy a point to point pass.

Backpacker Tours of East Coast Australia

There are also many great backpacker tours that include all the East Coast Australia highlights.  G Adventures are my favourite as they run some awesome, small group tours that show you the top sights and also takes you off the beaten track with included cultural activities.

The Most of the Coast – Sydney to Cairns Tour is the best as it covers all the major highlights as well as including some interesting Aussie experiences like sleeping in a swag under the outback sky at an cattle station, sheep shearing, panning for gold, painting with aboriginal people and surfing lessons.

Plus, it’s a ‘yolo’ tour so it’s a fun budget friendly tour especially for backpackers and young, like minded travellers . Click here for more details .

You can also find loads more Australia tours on Tour Radar.

Save money backpacking East Coast Australia by buying a package

There are lots of ways to be thrifty and save money while backpacking East Coast Australia. If you don’t want to go on a tour you can still save money on transport, accommodation and experiences with a package.

My friend Chris at  Backpacker Banter Australia Travel Blog  and RTW Backpackers has done all the hard work by getting the best deals with the best companies and compiling them into an easy package to save you effort and money.

Check out the Global Gallivanting East Coast Australia packages here  which has all the tours and activities I used and recommend in this post in an easy, money saving package.

Guidebooks for backpacking East Coast Australia

To help with finding things to do, accommodation and practical tips for backpacking East Coast Australia I traveled with a  Lonely Planet Australia Travel Guide , you can also get a Lonely Planet specifically for East Coast Australia .

I would recommend buying this from  Amazon  before you go (because it’s cheaper) as it is packed with all the info you need for this epic trip. You’ll also need a map – this  Australia Map by Lonely Planet  is really useful.

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Melbourne Things To Do

Melbourne tours.

From its eclectic urban laneways to

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Melbourne Activities and Tours

There's always somewhere new to discover in melbourne..

Notorious for being a blend of bustling laneways, world-renowned restaurants, stylish cafes and bars, peculiar street art and unique wineries , a day on the streets of Melbourne could be considered a day tour of Melbourne in itself!

There's no doubt why Melbourne is named the coffee capital of the world. Wander through the laneways and relish the best coffee you’ve ever experienced, with Melbourne inarguably the perfect place for coffee lovers.

Also famous for its festivals , you may be familiar with some of the city's icons, including White Night, the Lonsdale Street Greek Festival, Cultural Diversity Week, the Lunar New Year celebrations, the Midsumma Festival, the Moomba Festival and the Christmas Festival.

The only city in the world with five international sporting amenities including the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Docklands Stadium, Rod Laver Arena, Hisense Arena and Olympic Park in Melbourne Park, The Melbourne Cricket Ground, also known as 'The G' has a rich history, with our MCG tour deal a must for anyone sports mad.

Stepping away from the city, you’ll find a myriad of other beautiful Melbourne attractions on offer, including the Great Ocean Road , the delightful Penguin Parade at Phillip Island as well as Phillip Island’s winery tours , with a delicious selection of deals ready and waiting for you!

Phillip Island also offers pristine beaches where you can walk along the coast of Woolamai Beach and watch surfers go about their day. In fact, there’s many Melbourne walking tours in and around the city, with many national parks also providing the opportunity to get up close and person with Melbourne’s wildlife. 

Over at the Yarra Valley, more opportunities to wine, dine and explore await. Known as Victoria’s oldest wine region, a Yarra Valley wine tour from Melbourne is the ultimate way to explore the vineyards and taste the stunning local produce. Your first stop on this wine tour will be the Gateway Estate Farmhouse , where you will get a chance to sample the local products like stone fruit, berries and apples, as well as a selection of local cheeses and delights. The Yarra Chocolaterie is the next stop. Savour the hot chocolate and the salted caramel gelato before you head to the  Napoleone Cider House and Brewery for tastings, followed by the Killara Estate Winery , where you will learn the art of Italian winemaking.

Looking for something a little more thrilling? You can also skydive over the Yarra Valley and encounter the breathtaking sights of the lush forests, wildlife sanctuaries and dairy centres.

Back on land, The Mornington Peninsula is home to seaside wineries and exciting restaurants . Indulge in a day of tastings including fresh goat’s cheese, incredible chocolates and one of the best pinot noirs in the world on a Mornington Peninsula day tour from Melbourne. Or, hit the beach and explore the quiet beachside bathing boxes and remarkable views that the region is known for. You can also enjoy the award-winning hot springs and pamper yourselves in the day spa - the opportunities are endless here.

A Great Ocean Road Tour from Melbourne is one of the world’s most dramatic ocean drives. Take in the vivid scenery of the empty beaches and the famous Twelve Apostles. Learn about the history of Australia's most famous shipwreck or even take a scenic flight to explore the mind blowing surroundings. You can take a guided bushwalk along the cold and calm rainforest, or, for  a total adrenaline rush, skydive over the Great Ocean Road - just search for ‘Great Ocean Road’ up the top of this page for more ideas on what to do!

Grampians National Park is known for its sandstone mountains, wildflowers and wildlife. The Grampians is a series of five rugged sandstone mountains and is an excellent venue for climbing, camping, scenic drives and bush walks . Halls Gap, located in the heart of the park, offers accommodation, eateries and boutique shops. Do not miss out on the Boroka Lookout, MacKenzie Waterfalls and the Jaws of Death - here you are guaranteed many stunning pictures.

Wanting a day tour from Melbourne? Head out to Wilsons Promontory, also known as 'The Prom', this is one of Australia's most loved natural attractions . You can walk the coastland bush trails, swim in the pristine white beaches, camp or hike and explore the wildlife.

Back in the city itself, The Yarra River offers several scenic views, with the banks offering many barbecue and picnic settings for the ultimate Melbourne day trip . You can walk or cycle along the trails with the backdrop of the mighty river, or, try one of our Melbourne kayaking deals under the moonlight and explore the city from a new perspective.

When holidaying in Melbourne, regardless of your time in the city, make a point to explore the many colourful and impressive laneways. You will see some of the best street art in the world and get an authentic perspective on local art and the artists behind it. Melbourne art is second-to-none, but we’ll let you be the judge of that!

For those looking for something different, opt for a Melbourne ghost tour (if you have the guts) or, step away from the city and take a ride on the historic Puffing Billy Steam Train  for a coastal ride from Belgrave to Emerald Lake Park  and through the glorious Dandenong Ranges . This full-day tour also includes a stop at the at the world-renowned Healesville Sanctuary , where you can wander at your leisure through the sanctuary, viewing native animals such as koalas, kangaroos, platypus, birds of prey, and more.

Want know how and where you can find things to do in Melbourne and more?

Take a look at everything we have on offer (and more) and get booking today!

Frequently Asked Questions About ​Day Trips In Melbourne

How many days do you need for Melbourne? For those who are visiting Melbourne for the first time, it is definitely possible to experience Melbourne in 3 days, although 5 days is ideal so you have more time for day trips!  

What is the best month to visit Melbourne? This completely depends on what kind of holiday you’re after, however, ​​Summer (Dec-Feb) in Melbourne brings balmy summer nights, the iconic Australian Open tennis tournament as well as many music festivals to the city, creating a hive of entertainment and activity.  

What are the top attractions to visit in Melbourne? It’s the city where there’s something new around every corner…and every laneway! Check out our Melbourne Tours and Activities marked ‘Featured’ for a collated look at some of the best experiences we have on offer. Oh, and you may even score an awesome Last Minute deal !   

Which places provide the best tours in Melbourne for kids and families? A Phillip Island Penguin Parade Day Tour is a much loved experience by the whole family. Step out of the city for this memorable walk on the wild side. Or, take your holiday to new heights with a trip up Melbourne Eureka Skydeck with one of our passes! Just search ‘ Eureka Skydeck 88 Entry & Edge Experience ’.  

Which experiences are best for multi-day tours in Melbourne? Get out and about on a multi-day tour of Melbourne and surrounds. We’ve got a few great ones on offer, particularly along the Great Ocean Road . Just select ‘Multi-Day Tours’ from the Category bar on this page to discover more.

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AUSTRALIAN ROAD TRIP TOURS

Road 2 Adventure

Chasing adventure, off the beaten path.

AUSTRALIA’S ONLY HOSTEL ON WHEELS!

Road2Adventure is Australia’s only ‘hostel on wheels’ specialising in providing backpackers and travellers with adventure filled road trips throughout Western Australia, South Australia and the Northern Territory. Experience the natural beauty of some of the most remote parts of the country including the Ningaloo Reef, Margaret River region, Karijini National Park, the Kimberley, Shark Bay, Esperance, the Eyre Peninsula and so much more!

Road2Adventure isn’t your typical tour bus. Instead, we see ourselves as a group of mates travelling the country together. This approach allows for flexibility in terms of itineraries – meaning you can choose how long we spend at each new and exciting place.

More time. More comfort. More fun!

The Road2Adventure Difference

Looking for a road trip that is longer than the average tour, but still competitive on price? Our team at Road2Adventure have curated specialised trips allowing you to see and do more than most, we’re sure you will leave feeling stoked! Australia is a vast country and by offering longer trips, we’re able to get off the beaten track and truly experience the iconic destinations along the way – rather than seeing them from a bus window.

Road2Adventure allows you to discover and experience all Australia has to offer, while still being able to sleep in a bed you can make your own. No packing your belongings every morning and living out of a suitcase – instead, relax and spread out in the comfort of your own travelling hostel!

Epic Road Trips with GUS and GERT

Meet Gus and Gert – our custom-built travelling hostels!

Gus and Gert comfortably accommodate eight guests per bus and all the gear required for a true Australian adventure holiday.

Check out some of the key features of our buses below:

Access Anywhere

Each bus tows a large four-wheel drive allowing us easy access to off-road locations and hidden gems.

Dedicated Beds

Put your head to rest in your own bed on the bus – wherever we are, you can sleep in style.

Cooking Facilities

With a full kitchen inside the bus and a slide out BBQ underneath, we can cook proper meals no matter rain or shine.

Shower Availability

Even in the middle of the outback, you can wash off the red dirt with a nice, hot shower.

Embark on a REAL Aussie Experience

Experience all Australia has to offer – relax, have fun, hang out, explore, travel.

Why Choose Road2Adventure?

We started Road2Adventure to share our nomadic lifestyle and passion for the outdoors with others. Creating a travelling hostel has allowed us to do that and because we love it, you will too – enthusiasm is infectious!

Personalised Experience

With only eight guests per bus, we take the time to get to know you and provide personalised experiences. When you hop on board, you become part of the Road2Adventure family.

Relaxed Vibe

While we are rarely sitting still, we don’t want you to ever feel rushed. Our trips have been designed and perfected, allowing us to focus on enjoying each destination we visit.

Maximum Enjoyment

Our passionate guides are active and adventurous meaning there’s never a dull moment. We’ve loaded the buses with surfboards, slack lines, snorkels, paddle boards, beach games, card games, skateboards, fishing gear and even a guitar for around the camp fire!

Minimum Stress

Throughout our adventure, you’ll have access to everything you need. There are no hassles regarding accommodation check ins/outs or finding somewhere to eat. With toilets, showers, cooking facilities and beds – wherever we are, you have it all. Just enjoy the adventures from dawn until dusk!

Don’t Just Take it From Us!

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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