Australia Travel Tips

In the current global climate and travelling, check ahead of time & familiarise yourself with any travel restrictions that apply. We also recommend adding a certain amount of planning to your trip, so as not to be disappointed that you didn’t get to ‘this or that’ place or go to ‘THAT’ restaurant.

Australia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world on both coasts east and west for you to enjoy. Relaxing and soaking up the sun is an effortless experience. However, if lazing about not your thing, then how about exploring. For instance, wander through a rainforest or visit a tropical island the north east, have both. Also home to one of the seven natural wonders of the world ‘The Great Barrier Reef’. In short, a visit to this amazing reef system is a must if you love to explore, under and above the water.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more mountainous adventure. There are mountain ranges throughout our country to discover, with their magnificent gorges and river systems. Our exquisite deserts cover 18% of mainland Australia, visit the amazing rock structures at our centre while you are here. For example, Uluru and Mount Olga, these extend West and North to the top end and the Devils marbles.

On your way ‘down under’…

Basic Australia Travel Tips

Currency: Australian dollar ($AUD)

Most importantly, check exchange rates before arriving, to ensure you get the best rate.

Credit/Debit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are readily used in most areas. Amex and Diners Club are available at limited places. However, in some instances e.g. local markets, many stalls are cash only.

We always travel with a global currency wallet, this allows us to shop and withdraw from ATM’s in the local currency. Even when travelling in our own backyard!! It helps me budget!!

Tip: Exchange or withdraw a small amount of AUD cash before arriving or as soon as you arrive.

Australia Time Zone

One of the important Australia travel tips is to be familiar of the time zones.

Australia has three distinct time zones as are represented on the Australia map (Australian Standard Time). Daylight savings is not observed by QLD, NT & WA as is shown on the Australian Daylight Savings Time map.

The beginning of Daylight Saving Time is at 2am on the first Sunday in October, when clocks are put forward one hour. Ending when clocks are put back one hour at 2am (which is 3am Daylight Saving Time) on the first Sunday in April.

Note – Australian State abbreviations: Australian Capital Territory (ACT), New South Wales (NSW), Northern Territory (NT), Queensland (QLD), South Australia (SA), Tasmania (TAS), Victoria (VIC), Western Australia (WA).

Source:  https://info.australia.gov.au/about-australia/facts-and-figures/time-zones-and-daylight-saving

Tipping

Whilst, not compulsory or expected, it is always welcomed. It’s a great way of showing appreciation for the service and food provided.

Power

Adaptors used in Australia have two or three flat prongs to match the outlet pictured, as an example. When travelling we use a universal adaptor and power board, allowing us to pack one adaptor. Reducing my last minute packing stress and the screams of ‘have you packed the right adaptor‘, ensuring we can always stay connected (if we wish).

Language:

Australia has no official language, though English is the main language spoken across the country. However, as a multicultural country you will often find many major areas and large establishments with bilingual staff. Many bilingual staff members at major establishments wear a badge indicating the country they are from &/or the language(s) spoken. There are also many bilingual communities scattered around the country.

Common Phrases:

Whilst we have no official language, many Australians love to shorten or change words, which can differ between states. As a guide and one of our Australia travel tips is a guide to Australian slang. We have added some popular and some more amusing sayings (Slang), so if/when you hear these you will be aware of the meaning.

How long to visit for: this is a how long is a piece of string question!!

Where you have travelled from, can also affect your decision. For instance, some places can be 15+ hours on a flight and you want to get the most whilst here.

Tip: As a rule, for us if we travel more than 15 hours (average flight to Europe 20+ from Sydney) we would spend a minimum of five weeks.

Advice: Have an broad idea of what you want to see and experience during your visit. This will help you gauge how long you need your visa for.

Travel Style

In all honesty we are generally not ‘wing it’ type of people now, our travel style is more planned.  Though, we always manage a ‘wing it’ day or two where we just wander about or explore the local area. Day outings around home are very loosely planned, watching the weather & such. If this is you also take a look at our travel planning tips.

Passport and Visa:

This is probably the most important of our Australia travel tips.

For entry into Australia you are required to have 6 months on your passport (from your date of exit). For example, if leaving Australia on March, 1st, your passport needs to be valid until September 1st.

The type of visa you apply for depends on the type of visit you are planning. Whether holidaying, working or looking to immigrate, Australia immigration can help guide you to the correct form. The length of stay can be 3, 6 or 12 months, which is dependent on your country of passport. A variety of entry visa’s are offered in Australia, you can check your options here & decide which is the best for you, before applying.

Safety advice:

Australia has what is considered a low crime rate and is generally considered a safe lifestyle. However, precautions for your personal safety and that of your possessions, should be similar to travelling anywhere in your own home. Many countries have travel advice websites before leaving your country I would recommend registering & downloading any app available.

Most importantly, Australia’s sun can be quite strong & our insects bite. No matter what time of year you travel, we recommend you pack a high level sunscreen and insect spray. We have more packing tips here.

Tip: Look at your countries smart traveller app to gain information.

Travel Insurance:

This is a no brainer for us, whether you are local or travelling from overseas we strongly recommend getting travel insurance. Whilst adding to your overall expenses, we consider it an investment. As it comes with peace of mind that you are covered for any unforeseen circumstances. For those things that just ‘happen’ above & beyond health, like cancelled trips, lost/broken phones or cameras. Include this in your travel plan, we can show you how with our Travel Planning System.

Read more in our article: Travel Insurance – Do you really need it!

When to go

There is no ideal time to come to Australia, that is to say it’s completely personal. However, you can make you decision based on the type of weather you like. In addition to the activities you are wanting or planning to do or events you wish to attend.

Additionally, with Australia in the southern hemisphere, our seasons could be opposite to your own. If you are travelling from the Northern Hemisphere, coming to Australia makes it easy to follow the sun year round.

That said if you are following the sun Australia being such a large country, with diverse weather systems. You will not have any trouble finding sunshine in one place or another throughout the year.

To give you an idea here’s some examples of ‘Best Winter Holidays in Australia’

A glance at our four seasons:

When traveling around you will find not all the States have four clearly defined seasons. In our Australia travel tips we I have added here, when the seasons are, the temperature range & what you may expect. Town specific weather information can be found at the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM).

Summer (Dec – Feb) – Expect hot weather across the majority of Australia during this time with average weather being 19º C to 30º C, with northern parts having temperatures over 35º C much of the time. Down south in Tasmania we are a little more chilled (literally).

Autumn (Fall) (Mar – May) – As we cool down for winter (or some states do) average weather across the country is 15º C to 26º C, though March can still see days over 35º C in our top end and northern states.

Winter (Jun – Aug) – Expect the unexpected, whilst cooler temperatures are seen 10º C to 21º C as an average. During winter in the top northern areas it is not unusual to have days as hot as 30º C. Though, in the more southern areas, temperatures as low as 1º C or below are common. Not as cold as the northern hemisphere I know but snow is found in some of these areas for those that love to play in the white stuff.

Spring (Sep – Nov) – One of my favourite seasons, you can expect 14º C to 26º C bringing back days over 35º C for many of our states. This however also brings the rain with rainfall increasing up north with a chance of cyclonic weather.

Mean Australian Climate (Source: BOM – 31 Mar, 21)

Brief holiday guide – Public/School:

Seasons aren’t the only thing that can dictate your trip. For instance, states of Australia have various public holidays and four blocks of school holidays. As with travelling in any region during holidays, the crowds and often prices increase. This is also the case for Australia’s public holidays of which there are many. Though, during these times there are often major festivals and event to consider.

• Summer Holidays – Mid Dec – Last week Jan (usually 5-6 weeks)
• Autumn Break – April – (usually 2 weeks around Easter)
• Winter Break – July – (2 weeks at the beginning of the month, often includes last days of June)
• Spring Break – September/October – (2 weeks that start from mid to late September, going into early to mid-October)

Australia Travel Tips Advice: Check with your regular airline, for domestic airlines they are affiliated with, before booking internal flights.

How to get around:

Once you have arrived at your initial destination there are several options for getting around the country. If you are spending time in the Capital city of arrival, transport can generally be arranged from your accommodation. However, International terminals also offer taxi or limo services, shuttle buses and public transport links to the city centres.

• Train link – Sydney and Brisbane
• Bus link – Melbourne, Perth and Darwin

Interstate travelling

If traveling on from your initial arrival point, there are several options available from the airports.

Planes

Ongoing flights can be booked using the multi city option with your original booking through Expedia. Additionally, these can also be organised separately once you have arrived.

Australias’ current domestic airlines include Virgin Australia, QANTAS, JetStar & REX.

‘BONZA’, a new budget airline is set to start early 2022  keep a look out for introductory pricing.

Tip: Booking flights in advance is often the most cost effective way to travel.

Car hire

All international and domestic airports offer car hire options. You will especially find the major brands & can be booked at the airport. Additionally, you can book through Expedia for pick up at the airport. Alternatively if you belong to a rewards program you may be able to book with points. This is something we often do to reduce costs, our article on a points or pay system will provide some guidance.

Tip: Check if an International License is required by the car rental company of your choice.

Update Feb 2022: Due to increases in the car rental sphere here in Australia. If you are planning to stay more than 60 days & driving around Australia. It may be worth considering buying a good second hand car for the duration of your trip.

International Licenses: Rulings differ between states, most states allow you to drive on a current overseas license. However, if your license is a language other than English, an English version is required.

If planning a visit of more than 3 months, some states require you to have an international license in addition to your current foreign license. Check out the individual state rulings here.

Tip: We advise you get an international license for driving in Australia, in order to save confusion if travelling between states and added assurance.

Trains

Australia has two types of train systems interstate and urban (rail and light rail). With some airports having their own stations.

Most states have a travel card available for use on intercity public transport. These can be found at all stations & some airports upon entry for purchase.

The majority of Capital cities have at least rail, light rail or trams as options for intercity & suburban travel. This is a very cost effective way to get around, saving on costs and time whilst visiting.

In capital cities this form of travel can also be the most time efficient also, especially on peak travel periods. Travel throughout the country via trains is limited between states but not impossible.

Whilst many routes run between capital cities, some lines cover a greater area with several stops between.

Tip: For interstate travel & trips, book before arrival, these are often limited by space and travel schedules.

Accommodation

As with any major tourist country there is an abundance of options available for accommodation when travelling in Australia. We love our comforts, and our travel style is subsequently built around this.

As we build our site you will find our pages filled with comfortable to luxurious accommodation options.

When choosing the style of accommodation, (resort, hotel, boutique hotel, glamping or home stay) your can vary depending on the length you are staying. 

This often governs our choices as does whether we are in a capital city or out in country areas.

You can book your accommodation through Expedia or Skyscanner, which has the advantage of keeping all your travel bookings together. Though for hotels & resorts we always compare prices between Hotels.com, Hotelscombined.com & our Hotel memberships. If you have a membership with a major hotel it can be quite rewarding to check these first.

Look at our Points or Pay System Article to give you an overview of some of the larger groups.

If you are travelling for more than a two week period we recommend you include a house stay. This allows you to use the house stay facilities, thus keeping down on what you need to pack. House stays we recommend you compare, then book through one or all of the following; Stayz, Stay 22, VBRO or AirBNB.

If you are planning on staying longer one of our favourite Australia travel tips is to investigate, housesitting or swapping. Allowing you to keep your costs down whilst being able to extensively explore an area.

Some of our favourite places to stay will be included in our State by state guide. Whilst we like our comforts when we travel, I (Jeanine) love a good deal & always shop around for one. I also use various options to save costs, including using points or free nights. I’ll be sharing some of my hints and tips with you soon.

Ok I am spilling the beans here, packing was never one of my strengths. My first trip (solo) in 2009 I travelled to Canada, my baggage allowance was 46 kg (100 lbs)! Yes I did take that many clothes for two weeks and yes I did not wear even half of them!

Now to say I have gotten better is an understatement, despite my ‘we may just need this‘ philosophy. However, even on our last trip there were clothes in our bags (a couple of jumpers each) that weren’t worn.

Greg just shakes his head & often despairs at my ‘we may just need this’. Though, I did manage to pack for six weeks away with only two carry on & only one checked bag to two… well under ‘half’ our combined baggage allowance. Yeah me!!!

We also have some handy packing guides in our FREE Printable Travel Planner.

Itineraries

Itineraries are funny things… Basically it depends on how long you have, what you like or want to do. And lets not forget the sights you didn’t even know you wanted to see. Australia, with such a diverse landscape & weather systems certainly has something for everyone all year round.

Above all, we are here to help guide you! What’s your favourite thing?

• A trip to the desert
• Food, wine or distillery visits
• Get back to nature
• Visiting historic or iconic places
• Laze on a beach
• Scuba diving or snorkelling
• Skiing or snowboarding

Australia – State Guide

Coming SOON!

Aussie Slang & Myths

A little bit of Slang;

• Hooroo – Goodbye
• Idiot Box – Television
• Jumper – Sweater
• Maccas – McDonalds
• Mozzie – Mosquito
• No worries – No problem
• Reckon – To agree
• Roo – Kangaroo
• Sanger – Sandwich
• Servo – Petrol station
• Straya – Australia
• Strine – Australian slang
• Sunnies – Sunglasses
• Tanty – Throwing a tantrum
• Tee-up – Make arrangements
• Thongs – Flip flops
• Tucker – Food
• Unreal – Fantastic
• Veg-Out – Laze about
• Woop Woop – A long way away
• Zip it – Stop Talking

A few myths to bust;

• You won’t see kangaroos hopping down Melbourne or Sydney streets. now you may see a crocodile on a beach up north in Townsville or Cairns. You will definitely see wallabies, possums, quolls, wombats and maybe an echidna on the roads travelling throughout Tasmania and some country roads in other states.
• Drop bears –  harrowing stories that are often told to tourists about our cutest marsupial the koala (not a bear at all). How they will drop from a tree and savage unsuspecting people, speaking a foreign language.
• Not all Australians LOVE vegemite!
• Not everything is going to eat you or kill you – However, many of us are very proud of having some of the deadliest creatures on the earth.
• It is not hot all year around – Tasmania, Victoria and the ACT are very chilly in winter, even summer in Tasmania can be cool. Yes, we can even get some snow.
• Koalas and Kangaroos are great pets – These are animals that live in the wild and are more likely to run from you than snuggle up to you. However, there are sanctuaries all over Australia. These take in injured and abandoned adults and joeys for a time before releasing them back into wild.