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Travel Australia

G'Day! Cliche? Maybe. Unnecessary? Never. Welcome to the Land Down Under where you can find everything from rolling pastures in green Tasmania , to red dust in the Northern Territory to pristine Coral Reefs in Queensland .

With 6 states and 2 territories to choose from, you're spoiled for choice with Australia travel. With around 20,000kms of coastline to explore, finding the best beaches and marine life around makes that perfect beach selfie oh so easy. Or If you're looking for adventure, why not head for the Great Outdoors as you traverse through the iconic Red Centre and witness wild Kangaroos with a side of majestic sunsets. Tour Ayers Rock and see the magic of the Outback, learning about the fascinating Aboriginal culture and some of Australia's most remote locations. For the city vibes, head to the metropolitan hubs of Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. Get your dose of Aussie wildlife at Australia Zoo, Port Lincoln Shark Diving, Kangaroo island and more! Don't worry, we've also got heaps of incredible coastal gems to choose from!  Sail the Whitsundays , drive the Great Ocean Road and snorkel the  Great Barrier Reef ! Do it all right here with Backpackers World Travel! We work hard to bring you the best Australia deals, tours and packages to make your holiday Down Under the very best. 

Fancy customising your own Australia travel? No worries! Drop us a line and work with one of our travel experts to create your perfect holiday at your perfect budget. We package the best hostels, iconic locations, and best activities for all the best prices to make your dream holiday a reality. 

Top Australian Destinations

East Coast Packages

Cairns Tours

Whitsunday Islands & Airlie Beach Cruises & Tours

K'gari Fraser Island & Coast Tours

Brisbane & Surrounds

Byron Bay Tours

Sydney & Surrounds

Melbourne & Surrounds

Uluru & Red Centre Tours

Top End & Outback Packages

Tasmania Tours

Car and Campervan Hire

Top australian packages.

14 Day Melbourne to Darwin Tour - Outback Package

Brisbane to Cairns Budget Package

Cairns to Brisbane Budget Package

Sydney to Cairns Budget Package From $99 Per Day

Cairns to Sydney Budget Package From $99 Per Day

Express Brisbane to Cairns Flexi-Package

Explorer Sydney to Cairns Flexi-Package

Explorer Cairns to Sydney Flexi-Package

Adventure Sydney to Cairns Flexi-Package

Adventure Cairns to Sydney Flexi-Package

Ultimate Melbourne to Cairns Flexi-Package

10% Off Greyhound Flexi Bus Passes | MLB - SYD - BNE - CNS

Ultimate Cairns to Melbourne Flexi-Package

Campervan Road Trip Package Brisbane - Cairns

Campervan Road Trip Package Cairns - Brisbane

Campervan Road Trip Package Sydney - Cairns

Campervan Road Trip Package Cairns - Sydney

4 Day K'gari & Whitsundays Combo

Top australian activities.

2 Day 2 Night Whitsundays Sailing - Atlantic Clipper

1 Day Great Barrier Outer Reef Tour - Ocean Freedom

3 Day K'gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Tag Along Adventure - Dingos

1 Day Cape Tribulation Tour - Active Tropics

2 Day 2 Night Whitsundays Sailing Tour - New Horizon

3 Day Uluru Rock the Centre from Alice Springs - Adventure Tours

1 Day Whitsundays Cruise - Thundercat

2 Day K'gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Tag Along Adventure - Dingos

1 Day Waterfall and Rainforest Tour - Waterfall Wanderers

1 Day Remote K'gari (Fraser Island) Experience - Tasman Venture

1 Day Everglades Explorer - Everglades Ecosafaris

Skydive Airlie Beach with Beach Landing - Airlie Beach Skydivers

8 Day Adelaide to Uluru Adventure - Untamed Escapes

3 Day / 2 Night Whitsunday Sailing Adventure - Condor

3 Day Great Ocean Road Melbourne to Adelaide Explorer - Get Lost Travel

7 Day Perth to Exmouth & Return - Adventure Tours

Find your perfect experience....

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

Local Beer VB

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

• Baby Natalie getting a little bigger every time we see her! 🐘 4 Comments View
• Has anyone got tips for sorting Visas out? 2 Comments View
• Have just booked onto the Sri Lanka tour for Feb 22! Super excited! Has anyone else? 🤩 5 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
• 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
• 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
• 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
• 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
• 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 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
• Does anyone recommend any essentials for a 15 day trip to Thailand? 😊🇹🇭 4 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
• Hey! Anyone booked on the Sri Lanka trip in April? 🇱🇰🤙 16 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
• Last night with these absolute legends in Sri Lanka !!! 🇱🇰🌊🛺✌🏻✨ I have so much love for you guys !!!🥰 5 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
• Hey everyone, New here and just booked to go to Thailand 🇹🇭 next November!!! So excited 😆🤗💓 7 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
• Sri Lanka March booked ✔ 9 Comments View
• With the world starting to plan its re-opening...who’s pumped for travel!? 🏝 26 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
• Sri Lanka Feb 2022 crew… where you at?! ✌🏽🇱🇰✈️ 1 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
• Booked on to April 15 night tour, when would be the best time for booking flights? 2 Comments View
• Waheeeeeey! Thailand feb 2022 who’s joining?! Got a couple of questions about flights Ect! So excited! 3 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
• Anyone going to Thailand on the 12th of April? Got a group chat going if you want to join 😊🐘🇹🇭🙌🏻 6 Comments View
• I miss my feel free family ❤ I CAN'T wait for Vietnam in March ✈🌍🙌 3 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
• 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
• The countdown is on for Thailand 🇹🇭 . Sent my last payment and I am pumped to see this incredible place 😍 1 Comments View
• need some help with packing information lol. How is everyone packing? Backpack and luggage 9 Comments View
• Wooo! The countdown has begun 🙂! Who else is coming to Thailand Jan 22 2022! 2 Comments View
• ‘Did we just become best friends!?’ 😆 4 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

Australia INSPO

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Epic guides for the ultimate backpackers adventure

Find travel inspiration with our complete backpacker guides, activities, expert advice, essential gear, and immersive cultural experiences. Explore the nitty gritty of backpacking with insider knowledge on top-rated hostels, scenic campsites, and the best hiking trails to explore.

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Not sure where to go? Explore what Australia has to offer, from Melbourne’s dynamic urban jungle, or the incredible natural scenery of Brisbane, all the way to Sydney iconic harbour.

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Start your Aussie backpacking journey off on the right foot with our comprehensive travel guides written by seasoned us, seasoned backpackers, detailing awesome things to do, essential places to visit, must-know backpacker tips, employment advice, and visa information to help you navigate your adventure down under.

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Discover the best time to visit Australia with seasonal information, things to do, places to go and unique experiences.

Backpacker and budget accommodation guide to Australia

Discover backpacker accommodation from hostels, camping grounds, budget hotels to homestays. Get the secrets to budget travel in Australia.

Discover the 5 best walks in Sydney

Explore the 5 best walks in Sydney for backpackers and tourists looking for a coastal adventure. You’ll discover Sydney’s most iconic coastlines and more.

The best Art Galleries & Museums for Backpackers in Melbourne

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How to find backpacker jobs in Australia

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Becoming a Backpacker Au Pair in Australia

A Backpackers guide to becoming an Au Pair in Australia. Learn about Au Pair requirements, finding host families, childcare duties, responsibilities and challenges.

Getting your Working Holiday Visa to Australia

Learn the details on how to get a Working Holiday Visa to Australia including required documents, fees, eligibility criteria and more.

Why Austarlia?

The Ultimate Adventure

Australia has it all! It offers something special for every backpacker. It’s a place where stunning landscapes range from pristine beaches to dry outback desserts, each offering its unique adventure.

Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are not just urban jungles but cultural hubs brimming with hip cafes, vibrant street art, and lively events. The relaxed Australian lifestyle makes it incredibly easy to find mates on your adventures, whether you’re sharing stories in a hostel or enjoying a chilled beach barbecue.

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The backpackers hub

Backpackers Australia is your go-to hub for planning a legendary backpacker adventure. We will help you explore unforgettable tours, awesome experiences, top-rated accommodations and activities worth writing home about.

Our backpacker travel guides and itineraries are your go-to source for living and working as a backpacker, uncovering Australia’s must-see destinations, unforgettable hikes, essential backpacking gear, hidden gems, and local hotspots.

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Expert guides crafted by backpackers, tailored for backpackers ensuring an unforgettable, fulfilling and budget-friendly experience.

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Count on us for accurate, up-to-date information on must-see destinations, budgeting advice, backpacker gear and more.

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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!

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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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

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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
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

INTRO TRAVEL

the ultimate guide to

Backpacking australia, backpacking in australia.

Backpacking in Australia is an amazing experience. From the white sandy beaches and tropical islands, to the incredible natural beauty of the outback, to vibrant cities and country towns, there's an unlimited number of adventures you can have in this truly incredible country!

And whether you're going for a short holiday, a gap year or an extended working holiday, you'll have so many unforgettable experiences that, like many people, you'll never want to leave.

We've put together this Ultimate Guide to Backpacking in Australia, which is full of practical advice, useful tips and plenty of inspiration to help you get the most out of your trip and to show you just some of the mind-blowing, life-changing experiences you can have on your backpacking adventure Down Under.

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At INTRO Travel we've been helping backpackers with everything they need to work, travel and live in Australia since 2005.

Check out our working holiday and gap year packages for Australia .

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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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12 tips for backpacking Australia

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written by Ros Walford

updated 06.11.2020

Backpacking Australia will almost certainly exceed your expectations. It’s not just that the places you’ll see will be more stunning than you had imagined – from the open, red-tinged landscapes and rich rainforests inland to the immaculate, golden shores. It’s that the country is geared up for good times, whether it’s getting active outdoors in that almost endless sunshine, enjoying the exceptional café culture or getting swept up by the atmosphere at a sporting event.

1. Plan a rough itinerary

2. plan where to go when, 3. pick accommodation to suit your needs, 4. choose transport to suit your needs, 5. be savvy about safety, 6. don’t be spooked by dangerous animals, 8. don’t dismiss anywhere, 9. learn the lingo, 10. look for freebies, 11. work to pay your way, 12. don’t hold back.

Here are 12 useful things to know before your first trip.

Travel ideas for Australia, created by local experts

12 days  / from 2900 USD

Explore Western Australia from Perth to Broome

Western Australia is the country's largest state, covering more than a third of Australia. This self drive itinerary allows you to explore sunny Perth, stunning national parks and waterfalls, the remote wild west outback, empty beaches and much more.

16 days  / from 3300 USD

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory on this self-drive adventure. Start in Adelaide and make your way over the Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, and Alice Springs to the Kakadu National Park and ultimately Darwin.

23 days  / from 4150 USD

Cross Western Australia to Darwin

Western Australia offers wonderfully remote outback experiences: from spectacular national parks to sandy deserts, pristine beaches to working cattle stations. This itinerary allows you to explore the way from Perth to Darwin in depth and at your own pace, in your own rental car.

Spontaneity is one of the best things about backpacking, but in Australia it pays to have at least a rough itinerary , as it’s easy to underestimate how long it takes to get around this vast country. Spending longer than planned pottering around South Australia’s wine country – fun though it is – might mean you have to sacrifice that eagerly awaited trip to extraordinary Uluru or exploring the billabongs of Kakudu.

Three weeks is the absolute minimum to “do” the East Coast by land: Sydney to Cairns via the broad beaches of Byron Bay and the Gold Coast, self-driving the length of Fraser Island (the largest sand island in the world), sailing the gorgeous Whitsundays , diving at the Great Barrier Reef and trekking in Daintree, the oldest tropical rainforest on earth. So to see the rest of Australia, you’ll need to fly or have much more time.

At any time of year, Australia is a great place to visit but it can get unbelievably hot, as well as surprisingly chilly and rainy, depending on where you go. Avoid travelling north during the “build-up” – the unbearably sticky weeks before the wet season rains bring cooler temperatures (November–March).

It’s far better to spend time in the more temperate south during these months, for example driving the Great Ocean Road or on a hiking trip in the Blue Mountains. The winter is generally a lot quieter so it’s a lovely time to see the country.

Read our guide to the best things to do in Australia , it will help you plan your Australian holiday.

For solo travellers, Australia is a breeze. Staying in hostels is the best way to meet people, and staff can help you orientate yourself and make travel arrangements, while other backpackers are an invaluable source of information.

Whilst not to everyone’s taste, “party hostels” provide social events to break the ice, but you can also find rural retreats, city hipster hangouts, and most have private rooms if you’re a couple or dorms don’t suit.

Airbnb is a popular alternative while campsites are usually well-equipped with kitchens, toilets and the ubiquitous barbecue.

Bus traveling at high speeds on the O-bahn Track, Adelaide © Cloudia Spinner /Shutterstock

Without doubt the easiest way to cover the great distances around Oz is to fly, but travelling by bus allows you to see more and is cheaper. Gaze out of the window on a long journey and be mesmerised by the changing landscape: the rust-coloured bush where kangaroos bound alongside, swaying grasslands, blue-tinged mountains, and occasional tiny settlements flashing past.

Greyhound buses offer hop-on hop-off travel passes, and the Oz Experience – the party backpacker equivalent – provides excursions along the way. If you want more freedom, hire a car or camper van, pack a tent or bivvy bag and camp out under the stars.

Related articles from the blog

Throughout Australia, be prepared for summer heat waves when forest fires are a frequent danger. The arid interior is a hostile environment so take the necessary precautions if you plan to drive – breaking down here is no joke. Like in big cities anywhere in the world, be streetwise – watch your valuables and let family and friends know where you are going.

Australia has more than its fair share of scary critters but don’t get paranoid – the risks are actually very low: more people die each year from bee stings than from encounters with snakes, sharks, dingoes, saltwater crocodiles or jellyfish.

Spider bites are rarely fatal thanks to the availability of anti-venom. That said, do take simple precautions: redback spiders hide in sheltered places so always check under toilet seats, especially in outside lavatories.

Reduce the risk of encountering a shark by swimming between the flags on patrolled beaches, and don’t swim in estuaries, rivers or mangroves where saltwater crocodiles like to hang out. When hiking in the bush, wear protective footwear to avoid snake bites.

© Kevin Khoo/Shutterstock

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Most visitors to Australia follow the well-trodden path up the East Coast. While it’s undoubtedly a highlight, the Ningaloo Reef on the remote West Coast is equally spectacular and, unlike the Great Barrier Reef, it comes right into the shore.

At Coral Bay, you can wade out through turquoise water to the reef or take a glass-bottomed boat and watch an exhilarating frenzy of fish at feeding time. When you’re done snorkelling or diving, see the reef from a biplane or speed on quad bikes along a glimmering white beach.

Head inland to spend the night at an isolated sheep station, cooking over a campfire as the sun sets over the never-ending ochre landscape.

You can have a good time in the most unlikely places: for example, a stopover at a one-horse town with nothing but a pub and a few bungalows may turn out to be the venue for one of the most surprisingly good nights of your trip. The town probably won’t make it into the guidebooks but finding adventure where you least expect it is one of the best things about backpacking in Australia.

Contrary to expectation, it’s unlikely you’ll hear anyone utter the words “fair dinkum” or “g’day Sheila”. However, there are lots of slang words that will flummox first-time visitors initially. You’ll wear your sunnies (sunglasses), boardies (board shorts) and thongs (flip flops) to the beach and bring an esky (ice cooler) for your barbie (barbecue).

Ordering a beer is one of the hardest linguistic challenges: in most states, a schooner is a large 450ml glass, except in Victoria and Queensland where it’s a pint. The smaller beer glass is called a pot in Victoria and Queensland; a middy in New South Wales and Western Australia; or a handle in the Northern Territory. Confused? Just ask for a stubby (375ml bottled beer), which is the same word everywhere.

Fortunately, you don’t always have to pay to go swimming, surfing, snorkelling or walking. In all the major cities, you can visit the botanic gardens and many museums and galleries for free. There’s no fee to take a tour of Parliament in Canberra or ride Melbourne’s historic City Circle Tram. Festivals around the country offer some free events; one of the most memorable is the Sydney Mardi Gras .

If staying for a while, find out if you are eligible for a working holiday visa at Australia.gov.au. Depending on the type of visa, you could do your usual type of work or see it as a chance to try out something completely different. If you normally work in an office job, why not try out working on a farm or fruit picking?

If you want to do bar or barista work, in most states you’ll need to obtain an RSA certificate, regardless of whether you have experience. If you’re planning to work in a city, bear the seasons in mind. For example, in Sydney, the peak tourist season is December to February so this can be the hardest time to find work, as businesses are quiet during the summer holidays.

There’s information about working in Australia on the Travellers’ Contact Point website (including tips on finding work, tax and opening a bank account).

Something happens to people when they travel around Australia. Normally adrenaline-shy folk find themselves bungee-jumping or throwing themselves out of planes as if it’s completely normal. The active, outdoors approach to life is infectious and you’ll probably want to make the most of each day.

So don’t stop yourself: do all the things that excite you – whether abseiling at Tasmania’s Gordon Dam or dancing all afternoon at a boat party in Sydney Harbour – and see as much of this amazing country as you possibly can.

Explore more of Australia with The Rough Guide to Australia . Compare flights , find tours , book hostels and hotels for your trip, and don’t forget to purchase travel insurance before you go.

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Backpacking in Australia

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Beyond days spent in the sun and nights beneath the stars, backpacking Down Under is surprising and exciting, with new adventures and experiences around every corner. From kangaroos hopping across white sand to the sun setting behind the outback's red rock, you'll never forget the truly special moments that only Australia can offer. If you decide you can't get enough and want to stay a little longer, explore how to  work and play the Aussie way .

Backpacker travel tips

How to plan your Aussie backpacking adventure

Australia's best hostels

Travelling Australia on a budget

Australian backpacker bucket list

Tips for solo travellers

Explore incredible things to do.

Australia’s best bars and nightlife

Australia’s best natural waterholes

10 of Australia’s most iconic road trips

Where to meet Australia's cutest animals

Gorgeous beach holiday destinations

9 Adrenaline rushes found only in Australia

Unmissable outback experiences

Popular backpacker destinations.

Connect to nature in Cairns

See art and culture in Melbourne

Unwind in Byron Bay

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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 National Park make a great day trip from Sydney ( this is good trip for backpackers ) There’s plenty of hiking trails, scenic viewpoints and waterfalls to explore. You can also take the train from Sydney to the Blue Mountains in only 2.5 hours.

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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Home » Oceania » Australia » Backpacking Travel Guide

Backpacking East Coast Australia Travel Guide (2024)

G’day Mate! I hear you’re packing a bag and heading to the East Coast of Australia – you lucky thing. You’re in for an absolute CRACKER.

Packed with adventure; the East Coast of Australia has got it all for us backpackers. With endless coastlines, pumping nightlife, fascinating wildlife (yes, I’m talkin’ kangaroos!) and so much more. 

If sailing the Whitsundays, camping among the dingoes on Fraser Island and scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef sounds up your alley – you better get booking! 

As one of the top backpacker spots in the world, you won’t be alone when you embark on your adventure down under. Many travellers traverse the East Coast of Australia every year. The people you meet along the way are one of the best parts of travel and they will forever hold a special place in your soul. 

Whether you’re up for bumping around the hostels, splashing out somewhere a bit boujee or packing up a van and hitting the open roads – there are loads of different ways to explore the East Coast. 

To make the most of your time backpacking the East Coast of Australia , it’s important to be prepared. You’ll want to decide what your travel budget and style is, as well as some of the top places you want to see.

That’s where I come in! In this guide, I’ve got everything you need to know before you set off on your trip of a lifetime to the big ol’ land at the bottom of the world. From the best itineraries and things to do to the boring stuff like travel insurance – I’ve got it all covered. 

So, let’s dive into the good stuff and get you fully equipped for your East Coast adventure.

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Why Go Backpacking in East Coast Australia

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Australia’s East Coast is an expansive land of never-ending, picturesque beaches stretching 3,150 kilometres, all the way from Sydney to Cairns and the Daintree Rainforest. And these sandy stretches are the biggest reason the East Coast has become such an iconic backpacker destination.

Sure, the surf is epic, but in addition, you can snorkel and scuba dive on the world’s most famous reef, sail among the most beautiful islands in Australia, or just lounge in a hammock with your Kindle.

But the East Coast is so much more than just its beaches. Venture out to the bush and spot koalas, kangaroos and cassowary in the best national parks in Australia ; or get your fill of big city culture in the metropolises of Sydney, Brisbane and Gold Coast.

The best way to experience this stunning and varied land is by hitting the road on an East Coast Australian road trip . The long, beautiful highway is made for road-tripping!

East Coast Australia is chock-full of some of the most iconic vistas in the country. That’s why, if you’re in Australia for the first time, taking on the East Coast is a great way to meet the land down under. It’s also the best route to take if you’ve only got a few weeks to travel Australia.

So, now that you know that you must absolutely experience backpacking East Coast Australia, what should you see and do while there? Let’s take a look at the main backpacker hangouts!

I have compiled the following East Coast Australia itineraries to help you plan your trip. It’s ideal if you can spend at least 3-4 weeks on the East Coast but honestly, when it comes to Australia, the more time you have the better!

However, feel free to tweak these itineraries depending on your time and budget constraints. However much or little time you spend backpacking the East Coast Australia, you’re sure to have an epic time.

7 Days Travel Itinerary for East Coast Australia: Sydney & Surroundings

So you’re only spending one week on the East Coast? Maybe you prefer spending more time in other parts of Australia but still wanna check out what the famed Eastern part has to offer. In that case, you can easily spend a whole week in Sydney and its surrounding areas.

Sydney , the faux-capital of Australia (the one people always think is the capital, when the real one is Canberra), can easily keep a backpacker entertained for a few days.

You can go pub crawling at night, then spend the days hanging out in the city’s green areas and world-famous harbours. Or make a trip to the famed Bondi Beach and walk along the coastline, if you feel like it.

From Sydney, you can take a day trip to Hunter Valley which is said to be the best wine region in Australia.

Then take a train to the hills and do an overnight trip to the gorgeous Blue Mountains.

Return to Sydney for at least one more day which you should spend on the super-cool Manly Beach .

2-Week Travel Itinerary for East Coast Australia: All the Classics

Got two weeks? Great! That gives you enough time to check out the most happening backpacker spots on the East Coast.

Start in Sydney , of course! After a couple of days of rapid sightseeing, head up the coast to Byron Bay. This chill surfer town is a great place to hang out for two days, especially if you also wanna check out the ultra-hippie hangout Nimbin.

Next stop: Gold Coast . (Alternatively, Noosa and Sunshine Coast.) Backpacking Gold Coast is your time to experience prime parties and surfing, before heading out for more parties in the backpacker hostels in Brisbane .

The last stop on this 2-week East Coast Australia itinerary is Hervey Bay or Rainbow Beach, where you can arrange a trip to Fraser Island , one of the best wildlife areas in the great Oz.

1+ Months Travel Itinerary for East Coast Australia: The Whole Thing!

This is the best itinerary for tackling an East Coast Australia trip! After all, you’ve come all the way down under – why not try out as many of Australia’s best adventures as you can?

Follow along the second itinerary: Sydney – Byron Bay – Gold Coast – Brisbane – Fraser Island. Make sure to stop by in Noosa , too!

Then it’s time to add some new waters. Literally – travel to Airlie Beach , where you can arrange a sailing trip around the stunning Whitsunday Islands for a few days.

Once back on dry land, head to Townsville where you can catch a ferry to Magnetic Island.

Make a quick stop in Mission Beach before staying in Cairns . From there, you can continue to Port Douglas and the Daintree Rainforest.

There are a few places where travellers love to visit while backpacking East Coast Australia. Here are the best places to visit on your East Coast Australia budget trip, from the ultra-popular to more off-beat.

Get ready for some surf, sun, and adventure!

Backpacking Sydney

Backpacking Sydney, the capital of New South Wales and the largest city in Australia, is a great experience since the city has so much to offer.

You can explore the district of The Rocks , full of historical streets near the harbour, or cross the bridge for great city views and visit the Luna Park amusement park.

Circular Quay is likely your first stop in the city since it’s home to Sydney’s most iconic attractions : the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge . You can enjoy an exceptional view of the steel bridge and the harbour while having a drink at the Opera Bar.

If you’re feeling brave, you can climb the Harbour Bridge . It’s well worth doing because you’ll get to see the whole of Sydney Harbour as it was meant to be seen. They’ll even give you a certificate of achievement at the end and the option to propose to your significant other at the top (as long as you mention it beforehand).

Check out Darling Harbour for Paddy’s Market, Aboriginal Centre, the casino, Sydney Aquarium, and just a lovely space to stroll around.

Hyde Park and the Royal Botanic Gardens are some of the best green spaces in the city, and the best parties happen in King’s Cross. There are tons of backpacker hostels in Sydney to choose from – just pick your vibe.

And even though you’re in a big city, this wouldn’t be Australia if you didn’t clock in some beach time. Bondi Beach is one of the most visited tourist sites in Australia. Take a dip at the Bondi Icebergs Swimming Club or take the beautiful coastal walk to Coogee.

However, the locals’ favourite beach is located a 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay. Manly Beach has a lovely promenade, many restaurants, shops, nightlife, and more.

Need help deciding between Sydney or Melbourne ? Check out our helpful guide.

Backpacking Brisbane

Whether you’re staying for a bit or just passing through Brisbane for the weekend, there is plenty to experience. Brisbane, or Brissy as Australians call it, is the capital of Queensland.

Brissy is defined by the Brisbane River winding through the city centre, which divides the city into a north and south side.

South Bank is the cultural precinct and home to the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, Queensland Performing Arts Centre, and several museums like the Queensland Maritime Museum.

Brisbane is the third most populous city in Australia, so it’s no surprise that you’ll find lots of places to stay in Brisbane on a budget!

Visit Streets Beach , a man-made, beach-style lagoon in the heart of the city. Make time for a stroll along the Rainforest Walk in the South Bank Parklands. Be sure to snap a shot of the giant BRISBANE sign while you are here or check out some live music on Saturday nights at City Sounds.

If you’re up for a party and want something more memorable, you can even charter your own yacht and have one helluva boat party.

Enjoy the Riverwalk , a permanent pathway extending from the CBD to New Farm Park. Take a ride across the Brisbane River with CityHopper, a free transportation vessel.

Shop at the Queen Street Mall or grab a bite at Eat Street Markets in the Portside Wharf. Restaurants here have been reconfigured out of old shipping containers — cool! Oh, and there are craft stores and live music in the evenings.

Backpacking Byron Bay

Oh yes, Byron Bay. Known for its laid-back, chill vibe worldwide. Shoes are optional, weed is plentiful, and the surf culture is huge. Come early, and stay late. No matter what time of day, backpacking Byron Bay does not disappoint.

At Byron Bay, you can check out local markets, dance in a sunset drum circle, or most importantly, catch some rays at the beach – all free of charge.

Many backpackers like to camp on the beach but there are loads of epic hostels in Byron Bay , too.

The Cape Byron Lighthouse stands on the most easterly point of mainland Australia. The lighthouse walk is one of the prettiest in the Byron Bay area.

This walk takes about 2.5 hours but it is well worth the exercise. Swim along the walk and try to spot some whales or catch a spectacular sunrise at the lighthouse.

If you have ever wanted to surf, Byron Bay is a great place to learn. Take a lesson at Main Beach or rent a longboard and head to Wategos .

For adventure, check out the experienced surfers at The Wreck or Tallows. Rent a kayak to be among the sea turtles and dolphins, go horseback riding along the beach, or snorkel in the turquoise waters.

When you’re staying in Byron Bay , allow an extra day for a trip to Nimbin . Nimbin is a small, quirky town known as the Amsterdam of Australia.

This is a tiny hippie town. Marijuana is illegal here, but absolutely everyone is going to try and sell you “special” cookies. Enjoy yourself (just know how very potent these cookies can be), and have a wander around the local shops and art galleries.

Backpacking Gold Coast

Just as you cross the border into the sunshine state of Queensland, about an hour outside of Byron Bay, you arrive at Australia’s Gold Coast. With tons of stuff to do in Gold Coast , most backpackers make a stop here!

Known for its surfing beaches, like Surfers Paradise , Gold Coast has a completely different vibe than most of Australia’s East Coast. Often called “Australia’s Hollywood”, this is the core of the nation’s entertainment industry. High-rise buildings are sprawled along the coast.

The Gold Coast embraces its touristy image, and the local culture has been impacted greatly by the “sun, sand, surf, and sex” marketing tactics.

Make sure to include a visit to Tamborine Mountain in your Gold Coast itinerary . There you can explore some rainforests, stare at some gorgeous views, and meet some animals.

Go surfing, then grab a bite at one of the many oceanfront restaurants or do some shopping. Stay as little or long as you want, the weather stays great all year round, anyway!

Backpackers will love the vibrant nightlife. Pub crawls hosted by hostels in Gold Coast are a great way to socialize and meet other travellers, and party the night away.

Backpacking Noosa and the Sunshine Coast

Just up the road north of Brissy is the Sunshine Coast. Backpacking Sunshine Coast is a must while backpacking East Coast Australia, and Noosa, its most well-known area, is my personal favourite spot on the coast!

Noosa is a vibrant area that maintains a small, beach town feel. Hastings Street, conveniently located near the beach, has lovely cafes, shops, and restaurants.

Noosa is most noted for the Noose National Park, which is an easy place to spot a koala resting in a tree. UNESCO has classified Noosa as an official Biosphere Reserve.

There are a few great hostels in Noosa that won’t break the bank if you decide to stay in the area for a couple of nights.

The best way to enjoy Noosa is to rent a surfboard or soak up the sun at one of the best beaches in Australia.

Also make sure to allow an additional day to explore the Noosa Everglades , one of only two everglades systems in the world and an Australian best-kept secret. It’s best to go with a tour company since all parts won’t be accessible for just a casual wanderer.

But Noosa is just one point of interest in the awesome Sunshine Coast Area. You’ll also find other backpackers hanging out in Mooloolaba and Gympie . For nature-lovers The Hinterland – home to the famous Glass House Mountains – is an awesome place to check out.

Backpacking Rainbow Beach, Hervey Bay and Fraser Island

Fraser Island is one of the top attractions on this East Coast Australia budget trip. But first, let’s take a look at the two towns that are the gateways to this unique island!

Rainbow Beach is a beauty in its own right. The town’s name derives from the rainbow-coloured sand dunes that surround the area.

Carlo Sand Blow is an impressive stretch of land with a moon-like appearance and is an amazing place to view the sunrise or sunset. Here you can slide down the colourful dunes or try paragliding.

Visit Double Island Point Lighthouse , and try to spot marine life like dugongs and sharks. This is also the longest wave break in all of Australia.

Hervey Bay doesn’t have quite as much going on for it but there is some affordable backpacker accommodation in Hervey Bay in case you want to visit Fraser Island on a day trip.

Then, to the crown jewel – Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world. It’s best visited on a tour that you can book from either in Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay. If you do have the time to experience Fraser Island on your own, shop for groceries and gas on the mainland, and remember to arrange park and camping permits.

Fraser Island is a true wonder of the world. You can take a dip in Lake Mackenzie or Lake Wabby with sparkling clean waters, or the Champagne Pool , the island’s natural jacuzzi.

The main “road” on Fraser Island is the Seventy-Five Mile Beach where you can drive to some of the island’s best attractions like the incredible Maheno Shipwreck and Eli Creek .

Indian Head , a coastal headland and the most easterly point of the island, offers spectacular views of the ocean. Here you can climb the rocky outcrop and search for rays, sea turtles, and sharks down below.

The most special treat of Fraser Island is the dingoes. These are some of the last remaining pure dingoes in Eastern Australia.

Backpacking Airlie Beach & the Whitsundays

Airlie Beach is a smaller town that comes to life at night. This is a destination with many bars, backpackers, and clubs, and you will not have a dull night during your layover here. Stay in one of Airlie Beach’s epic hostels to get in on a true backpacker pub crawl.

To be honest, there isn’t much to see in the town. You can take an afternoon dip in Airlie Beach Lagoon, a man-made lagoon in the heart of the city. Or, embark on the most picturesque boat ride of your life from the Port of Arlie at 8 a.m. for a full day of adventure. There’s an included all-you-can-eat BBQ, morning and afternoon tea, unlimited drinks, and Whitsunday island beach exploration.

Airlie Beach is mostly known as the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands !

Ahh, the Whitsunday Islands. They are what dreams are made of with their indescribable beauty. These islands form part of the Great Barrier Reef.

Due to its stunning beauty, The Whitsunday Islands are made up of luxury resorts – no hostels. However, camping is possible on some of the islands if you have a boat to reach the sites and bring your own food.

The truest way to experience the 74 Whitsunday Islands is with a sailing trip. Embark on the most picturesque boat ride of your life from the Port of Arlie at 8 a.m. for a full day of adventure. There’s an included all-you-can-eat BBQ, morning and afternoon tea, unlimited drinks, and Whitsunday island beach exploration. Or, if you’ve got more than a day available for a boat ride, I highly recommend taking a three-day cruise that includes scuba diving, beach-hopping, and epic onboard parties.

Who would have thought, a broke backpacker like you would have the opportunity to experience the sweet, sweet sailing life ?

Backpacking Townsville and Magnetic Island

Townsville is often just a pit stop for most backpackers but if you wanna make a proper stop, there are some epic hostels in Townsville . Rumour has it that Townsville has some awesome parties to offer, too.

Top recommendations for places to visit include the Reef HQ Aquarium with hundreds of coral, fish, and other sea species, as well as a turtle hospital. Just south of the city is The Billabong Sanctuary. Considered “Australia’s best interactive wildlife sanctuary”, there are over 100 species of Australian animals on site.

SeaLink, Townsville’s Ferry, will get you to and from Magnetic Island, which is no doubt The Reason you came here.

Magnetic Island is a mountainous island some 8 km off the coast. Named after its mysterious magnetic effect, Magnetic Island has a lot of curious characteristics to be discovered. Fun fact: Magnetic Island is also the sunniest place in Australia with more sunny days in a year than anywhere else in Australia.

Another World Heritage-listed site, Magnetic Island is rich in forests and boasts 23 secluded beaches and bays. You can rent out a snorkel, a kayak, or jet skis and water skis to explore the waters around the island.

Magnetic Island also has some great trails waiting to be hiked. With so many spectacular views, cover more distance by renting a bike or scooter.

There’s also the Bungalow Bay Koala Village where you can hold a koala in your arms, among other Aussie wildlife staples. I’m not sure I would recommend it, though… The animals seemed well taken care of but always be on extra alert when you’re participating in animal tourism.

Oh, and Magnetic Island is home to Australia’s premier full moon beach party! Keep that in mind, party people.

Backpacking Cairns

Backpacking Cairns is not to be missed. The city is known for its tropical climate and is the gateway to the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef . There isn’t all that much to do in the city itself – but I absolutely love it.

Cairns esplanade has a large swimming lagoon, which is not unusual for most Australian cities, but at this lagoon, you can sunbathe topless. Hey, it is extra humid here!

Cairns is also home to Australia’s only bungee jump, with the option to jump as many times as you would like, for those real daredevils.

There are plenty of affordable hostels in Cairns as well as options for food, drinks, and shopping on a backpacker’s budget.

Cairns’ crown jewel, one of the 7 wonders of the natural world and the largest living organism on Earth, is the Great Barrier Reef. The best way to explore the colourful corals is on a scuba diving expedition. This will put a dent in your budget but trust me, it’s worth it!

The perfect way to end your time in Cairns is at the Insta-famous waterfalls at  Atherton Tablelands.

Herbal Essence filmed their rainforest commercial here, and for good reason. Girls, or long-haired lads, let those locks down and get an awesome hair flip shot in front of Millaa Millaa Falls:  a cool reminder of your ultimate backpack journey to the land down under.

Backpacking the Daintree Rainforest and Port Douglas

The Daintree Rainforest , an ancient landscape, is the oldest rainforest in the world. The forest can be explored from Cairns, or even better, stay closer to the rainforest.

Head to Cape Tribulation to learn about the indigenous peoples of Australia.

View the fascinating Cassowary bird, spot crocodiles, swim, and of course stop at the rainforest’s best scenic locations.

Cape Tribulation is one of the finest beaches in Australia. There is a huge stretch of bleached sand, the likes of which are juxtaposed wonderfully by the verdant jungles of the Daintree.

Do be careful of the crocs as they like to hang out in the estuaries around the cape. Also, know that this is about as far north as you can go without having a powerful 4×4 vehicle.

If you want an alternative base to Cairns, try staying in Port Douglas on the edge of the Daintree – it’s more resorty but has a great beach and some down-tempo hostels as well. You can participate in many of the same activities as Cairns and at comparable rates.

The Great Barrier Reef is actually closer to Port Douglas as well so the boat trip out is shorter.

Off the Beaten Path on the East Coast of Australia

The East Coast of Australia isn’t just made up of the ultra-popular backpacker hangs – there are tons more to discover. Take some time out of your East Coast Backpacking trip and visit one of these spectacular destinations.

Mission Beach is another holiday gem known for its natural beauty and adventure. I recommend you arrange a trip to the nearby Dunk Island , which is blessed with amazing trails with panoramic views and excellent snorkelling waters .

Mission Beach is also a fav for adrenaline junkies: go white-water rafting down the Tully River or head out mountain biking, fishing or sailing. For the ultimate thrill, go skydiving with an incredible beach landing.

Another off-the-beaten-path town is Agnes Water and the Town of 1770. This is one of the last places you will find surf on the East Coast before hitting the reef region, and the lessons here are some of the cheapest.

The historical Town of 1770 is home to mini “Harley-style” chopper tours, which are its main attraction.

Closer to Sydney, The Blue Mountains offer some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Australia. You should view them either by one of the many drive-up viewpoints, from the trail, or even by canyoneering. The Blue Mountains are a feast for the eyes.

The best place to stay in the Blue Mountains is its main town Katoomba . Other settlements include Springwood , Leura , and Blackheath .

Katoomba is the best though. It’s a very artsy commune and has a reputation for being full of hippies, but it also offers a lot of Blue Mountain’s best hostels .

From just about any town you can arrange a walk and go hiking on one of many trails. Popular trails in the area include the Giant Stairway, the Grand Canyon, and National Pass Trail. If you’re the really adventurous type, try canyoneering!

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!

If you read through all the little snippets about the best places to visit in East Coast Australia on a budget, you probably already have a pretty good idea of all the awesome things you can do during your trip!

But a bit of concise repetition is always good, right? Here are some of the absolute most fun, most epic, best things to do in East Coast Australia.

Spoiler alert: most of them are not very budget-friendly, but all of them are worth the spend.

1. Surf in Noosa

Noosa, the backpackers’ most beloved stop on the Sunshine Coast, is known for chill vibes, rich nature, and awesome waves. Surfing in Noosa is not just about learning to stand on the board – it’s also about diving into the local surfer culture. You’ll also find plenty of yoga retreats in this area.

2. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef

The world’s largest coral reef is one of the top things to do in the whole of Australia, and it’s an incredible experience whether you’re underwater in scuba gear or snorkelling along. The reef has unfortunately experienced a lot of bleaching and damage in recent years but it is still worth the visit.

3. Celebrate New Year in Sydney

Sure, there are a few time zones before Australia, but as one of the first places where the year changes, Sydney is easily one of the best places to spend the New Year’s in the world. The fireworks over the Harbour Bridge are usually televised all over the planet.

4. Sail the Whitsundays

Ever dream of a pirate’s life? In the Whitsundays, you can experience what it’s like to sail between some of the most beautiful beaches in the entire world.

Add in a sprinkle of underwater exploration, on-board parties, and lounging on the whitest sand you’ve ever seen, it’s easy to see why sailing the Whitsundays is one of the top things to do in East Coast Australia.

5. Hunt Down Oversized Fruit

East Coast Australia is super backpacker-friendly not just because of its many attractions but its great farm work opportunities.

Many towns on the coast lean heavily into their status as the fruit-picking capital of the country, and have erected statues of giant fruit. One of the most famous ones is the Big Banana in Coff’s Harbour.

6. Chill out at Nimbin

If Byron Bay is the capital of hippies in Australia, then Nimbin is their administrative centre. This small town near Byron has got more and more touristy, but it still has plenty of chill vibes and good smokes to offer (although, if you’re gonna partake in drugs on the road, you should know they are illegal in Australia).

7. Party Like There’s No Tomorrow

The East Coast is without a doubt the most popular spot for solo backpackers in Australia – which means that this is where you’ll find the wildest, most debauched travellers to the land down under. Australian backpacker parties are truly something to experience – and so are the hangovers.

8. Road Trip the Coast

The long, well-kept roads of the coast are calling… There is no better way to travel the East Coast than on a road trip! Hire or buy a campervan or find other backpackers with a car to experience Australia from Sydney to Cairns in the best possible way. Plus, you’ll be getting a real taste of the awesome van life.

My highest praise for rental companies goes to JUCY Rentals . Reasonable prices. Great customer service. And bloody comfy vans. They are the ideal home on four wheels for your trip around the coast!

9. Hang out with the Dingos

Fraser Island is the world’s biggest sand island and definitely one of the most unique things to add to your budget trip on East Coast Australia. It’s also the best place to see dingoes, Australia’s indigenous wild dogs. But don’t try to pet them – these wild dogs are for watching only.

10. Explore the World’s Oldest Rainforest

Daintree Rainforest in Northern Queensland is a little off the beaten path and unfortunately skipped by many backpackers. You might not stumble on too many epic parties down here but you’ll definitely find awesome natural peace and great snorkelling opportunities.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Backpacking East Coast Australia is all about the hostel experience. Airbnb and Couchsurfing are always an option if you’re craving some peace and quiet but they can get quite expensive in Australia .

So, to keep your East Coast Australia travel costs low, always pick hostels! There are some absolutely epic hostels in Australia and each destination has a plethora of accommodation choices.

From my humble personal experience, Australia is one of the best places in the world to live da sweet, sweet hostel life .

Well, at least if you’re young, broke, and relatively new to travelling. (These days I would definitely pick camping over the rowdy hostel rooms.) Cause yo, Australian hostels are FUN. There’s always some sort of a pub crawl, snorkel trip, movie night, or quiz going on, and meeting other travellers is super easy.

There are as many hostel experiences as there are hostels in Australia. Read reviews beforehand. Some hostels are total shitholes, and some are fancy boutique-style, offering even women-only accommodation and other rare extras.

Your average 8-12 bed mixed dorm is going to run at about 20 AUD per night, depending on your location.

 The Best Places to Stay in East Coast Australia

With so many places to choose from, let me get you started on picking an affordable hostel or cheap hotel for your East Coast Australia budget trip. Here are some of the best cities to hit, and the top accommodation options in them.

If you’re not looking to share dorms in a hostel, you can find some affordable beach houses in Australia . Just book well in advance!

Let me be honest, Australia is not cheap , but the price to travel there is worth every cent.

Your costs are going to depend on where you stay, how you travel, what you eat, the activities you choose, and your alcohol intake. The following are a few guidelines to keep your travel costs down.

Activities, like a surf lesson, a snorkel trip or a skydive are easily gonna cut $80-100 USD out of your budget.

A bus pass can seriously save you on travel and sometimes include deals for activities as well. However, the absolute cheapest way to travel is to find a friend with a car and chip in for the gas!

Stay in large mixed-bed dorms at hostels that offer freebies like breakfast, tea, coffee, and surfboard rentals. Staying within budget sometimes means staying in the shabbier hostels but this rarely stops the stay from being a good time 🙂

Try to grocery shop, pack snacks, and cook dinner with your friends because the food will be one of the biggest costs in Australia. Buy all alcohol from the bottle shop to avoid paying high prices at the bar.

A Daily Budget in East Coast Australia

With some savvy spending, you can keep hold of the travel costs in East Coast Australia. Here are some example budgets for different style spenders.

Money in Australia

Australia’s currency is the Australian Dollar. In May 2022, the exchange rate is 1 AUD: 0.70 USD / 0.66 Euro.

Major credit and debit cards are accepted throughout Australia. Being a first-world nation, you will find many banks, currency exchange locations, and ATMs.

The process for opening a bank account is fairly easy even for those on a working holiday visa, and it is a good idea for smart travel banking to steer clear of international transaction fees.

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 – East Coast Australia on a Budget

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst backpacking East Coast Australia, I recommend sticking to the basic rules of budget adventuring. Here are some travel tips to keep your budget in check.

• Camp:  You cannot get much cheaper than free when it comes to accommodation. Grab an  awesome backpacking tent to take with you, or if you’re wanting to go super light-weight, a  camping hammock .
• Couchsurfing: If roughing it in nature is not your thing, try to see if you could meet some laid-back locals and crash a couch for some nights.
• Eat supermarket food:  Oh yes, the local supermarkets where you can purchase every backpacker’s favourite meal: instant noodles. If you are camping on a tight budget or your hostel doesn’t have a kitchen, it’s worth taking a portable stove .
• Hitchhike: If you have the time, save significant amounts of money on transportation by hitchhiking.’
• Pack a travel water bottle  and save money every day!

Why Should You Travel to East Coast Australia with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem.

And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller.

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

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!

The Australian continent is in the Southern Hemisphere, so it celebrates its summer from December to March and winter from June to September. On this East Coast itinerary, you’ll be travelling through two states: New South Wales and Queensland.

New South Wales is in a subtropical zone with hot summers and cool winters. Queensland, on the other hand, is in a tropical region with warm temperatures year-round which means it has both the wet and the dry season.

In Queensland, the wet season – summer – is said to be a poor time to drive north due to serious rainfalls and the threat of cyclones. The early dry season (April to May) is when the land begins to rejuvenate itself.

Accordingly, you may want to consider your arrival in Sydney during late Australian summer when the weather is sunny and warm.

Then continue up the coast during the early dry season to avoid natural disasters. However, I travelled East Coast Australia through January and caught amazing weather, little rain, and serious sunburn. I took a risk, but I am also not bothered by hot temperatures.

If you get to Sydney in the European summer, bring a good jacket – it gets seriously cold.

What to Pack for East Coast Australia

On every adventure, there are a few things I always add to my  backpacking packing list. These things will definitely also come in handy on your budget trip to East Coast Australia!

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 is a safe country with a low crime rate. In order to stay safe, follow this advice: “Don’t be stupid!”

People who’ve never been to Australia love to think that everything there is out to kill them. The venomous snakes and spiders start to seem like the tip of the iceberg when you hear stories about baby-eating dingos, highway murderers, and plants that can paralyse you.

While Australia does have its fair share of “WTF is that” level nature and animals, you’ll likely be perfectly safe wherever you go, as long as you follow the usual backpacker safety tips .

The Australian sun is really hard on poor pale-skinned travellers, and can be a real safety threat. Wear sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and light clothing when going out in the Australian sun.

Drink water and always carry fluids with you. A surefire way to destroy your trip is by ending up in the hospital with dehydration or sunstroke.

The ocean is another potential point of danger. Swim between the flags on the beach – although seeing a shark on a beach is very rare, the marked areas are safe for swimmers. Similarly, if there are signs telling you not to swim there, obey them! Out there be crocodiles.

The sea itself also hides many secret riptides and currents which is exactly why you should only swim in the marked areas. Unless you REALLY want to end up on TV on Bondi Rescue.

Although it may not be common, there is the risk of being bitten by a snake or spider while backpacking East Coast Australia. Always tell someone the areas you are exploring, and try to find a buddy to join if you are headed into the bush.

I was stung by a bluebottle jellyfish after accidentally sitting on it at the beach! Thankfully, the lifeguard knew exactly what to do and there were showers nearby to rinse off. I would have been frightened had I been all alone.

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

Backpackers and Australians alike are down to party. Every stop you make will have places to drink and, generally, several choices: clubs, bars, pubs, music venues, strip clubs, hostels. You name it; Australia’s East Coast has it.

Be sure to pre-game to stay on budget. Set an alarm before you go out. You do not want to miss your bus or be charged an extra night for failing to check out of your hostel on time.

Partying is all fun and games but it’s such an easy hole to fall into that you really should keep your alcohol use in check – drinking too much is one of the biggest backpacker mistakes you could make.

Party drugs should be easy to come by especially in places like Gold Coast and Sydney.

If you are looking to get high, the people of Nimbin or Byron Bay are sure to offer up advice. As backpackers, we are all in this together, and your fellow travellers are likely to invite you to join them while smoking.

One of the best parts about travelling is meeting new people, drinking, smoking, and sharing stories.

Do note that drugs are illegal in Australia – yep, even in Nimbin. Blaze at your own risk.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting East Coast Australia

Stung by a jellyfish or dropped your new iPhone in the toilet after one too many pub crawls? You never think you need insurance – until you do.

Travelling without insurance could be risky so do consider getting 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.

The best way to fly to the east coast internationally is through Sydney. there are also airports in other bigger cities along the coast, and especially if you’re flying domestically, it could make sense to fly to Brisbane or Cairns.

Purchase your visa prior to your flight and have a valid passport. Declare any items necessary on your Incoming Passenger Card. Most importantly, do not do anything stupid and respect Australia! This means no import/export of any illegal items or substances.

Australia Entry Requirements

There are several different types of tourist visas available to those who want 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.

The best way to enter Australia, though? The famed working holiday visa. This is essentially a one-year visa (extendable to 2 years under certain conditions).

This is the only tourist visa that also legally allows you to work while in the Oz, and if you’re planning to stay in the country for longer than a couple of months, it’s your absolute best visa option.

If you’re over the age of 30, you might need to look at other options. This visa is designed to help those travellers on their gap year in Australia , and apparently, if you’re over 30 you can’t get away with being on a gap year and so you can’t apply for this visa …hey, I don’t make the rules, but I don’t have to agree with them either. Sorry 30+ year olds!

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

You can hire a car, camper van, or take the greyhound bus — these are the most popular options.

Bad news: bus travel can get hella expensive. Good news: bus passes can offer some serious savings.

The Greyhound hop on, hop off pass is one of the best options to give you the most bang for your buck.

The OZ Experience includes bundle packages to places like Fraser Island, which saves you hassle and money. The Premier bus system  is a cheaper option than Greyhound, but timetables and stops are a bit limited; therefore, this pass requires more precise planning.

Road tripping is the BEST way to travel the Australian east coast! If you plan your trip well and share the vehicle with a few friends, it can also be the cheapest option while giving you the most freedom and flexibility.

There are many epic stops on NSW or Queensland road trips.

Renting a car or a campervan is pretty easy since there are lots of places offering rentals. Check out my top pick: JUCY Rentals .

It’s also popular for longer-time backpackers to buy a used car and sell it again at the end of their trip.

The bigger initial investment is not ideal fro the brokest of backpackers but you’re likely to get most of your money back in the end when you sell your trusty steed.

Train travel in Australia is a rarer way of getting around as a backpacker. Travel times are long and trips are expensive, plus limited stations can make your trip a little inflexible.

However, watching the beautiful Aussie landscapes roll past as you sit in your comfy train seat… Now that’s an experience! Going by rail can show you some of the best train trips in the world .

As I’ve already said, distances in Australia are long! Which makes for great road-tripping if you’re not in a rush  – and a nightmare if you only have limited time.

There are airports in most major cities on the East Coast and with some luck, domestic flights can be cheaper than trains or busses, especially if you’re travelling light.

Don’t want to buy or rent a car – maybe you’re not a confident driver, or just don’t have the money? Well, finding a rideshare in the East Coast is not all that difficult!

Keep an eye on the information board at your hostel or post a note yourself and you’re sure to find other backpackers going the same way.

Many backpackers also use websites like Gumtree to find rideshares.

Just a note for young solo female travellers: I met some seedy characters through Gumtree (essentially the Aussie Craigslist) so I’d advise keeping your guard up and maybe meeting your rideshare before the trip, especially if they’re Australian.

Hitchhiking is always a fun option to get around and completely for free!

Note that distances are HUGE and it will take time to get from place to place. You will need far more water than you anticipate, and then you will need even more than that .

Dehydration is very serious and a real threat in the land down under.

Hitching also obviously comes with its own risks, re: who’s picking you up. Australia is generally a very safe country but thanks to the infamous backpacker killer Ivan Milat and the loosely-inspired movie  Wolf Creek , you won’t find lots of Aussies recommending hitchhiking.

Is it actually dangerous, though? Probably not. But there are long stretches of absolutely nothing out there, and very little hope of getting help if you need it.

Onward Travel From East Coast Australia

Australia, being in Oceania, may not share borders with another country, but that should not deter you from travelling onward. Backpacking Oceania is a pretty epic adventure!

Popular travel destinations for Australians include Japan, New Zealand, Indonesia, and Fiji. Bali and Thailand are also huge backpacker favourites. These countries can be reached at fairly reasonable prices from OZ.

You came all of this way, though. Why leave now? While the country as a whole could take years to fully travel, Australia has so many regions for backpackers to discover.

Head to the Red Centre to discover the Outback. Go north to see the crocodiles in Darwin. Ride Camels on the beach in Broome.

Travel up the West Coast and compare the Ningaloo Reef to the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy wineries in Adelaide. Cruise the Great Ocean Road and wind up in Melbourne. Catch a ferry or flight to Tasmania, under down under.

Australia is a magical land so take the time to discover all of its wonders.

• Backpacking Oceania
• Backpacking Australia Travel Guide
• Backpacking Tasmania Travel Guide
• Backpacking Bali Travel Guide
• Backpacking New Zealand Travel Guide
• Backpacking Japan Travel Guide

If you want to work in Australia, it’s actually pretty easy!

Australia offers something called the working holiday visa which is a tourist visa that allows 18-30-year-old travellers to stay in Australia for up to one year and work at the same time.

Australia might be an expensive place to travel but the salaries are on par with the standard of living. Meaning that even a minimum wage job is going to contribute massively to your travel budget!

On the East Coast, fruit picking jobs are especially plentiful, but you can also find jobs in cafés, restaurants, hostels, and many other places.

The one-year working holiday visa can in some cases be extended to two years if you’ve done a few months of farm work.

One popular means for emigrating to Australia is with a work sponsorship. Your chance of receiving a sponsorship is going to increase exponentially if you are already living and working in the country. It’s not necessarily easy to find a work sponsor unless you’ve got skills that Australia is looking for – for example, in the trades or in nursing.

You can also find farm work as an unpaid volunteer in Australia relatively easily. WWOOFing is popular and even though it doesn’t pay, it goes towards earning your second-year working holiday visa.

Here at The Broke Backpacker we absolutely love Worldpackers! They’re community-driven, responsible and just an awesome platform all around.

When you’re looking for a volunteering opportunity, it’s a good idea to use a reputable website like Workaway or one of its alternatives .

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 .

Australia is a Western culture, but that does not mean that Aussies subscribe to the same values as other Westerners. Religion and politics are not often discussed in everyday conversations. As a multicultural society, consisting of many ethnic groups, Australia is optimistic and welcoming.

Aussies are known for their laid-back attitudes, love for sports and the beach, drinking and BBQs, friendliness, and most importantly their adventurous personalities.

Australians also love to mess with tourists. One thing you should never do in Australia is believe everything you’re told. Aussies are the masters of spewing the most outrageous fiction with a poker face, and there’s nothing they love more than getting a poor little tourist to fall for one of their jokes.

Take everything Australians say with a grain of salt… Except for drop bears. Drop bears are definitely real.

Aboriginal Australians are considered to be the oldest known civilization on Earth. You won’t find many of them on the East Coast due to injustices committed by white people over two centuries of colonization. In 2008, the Prime Minister delivered a historic apology for the mistreatment of Aboriginal Australians.

Today, Australia has made it a national commitment to close the gap in employment, education, and health between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians.

You will often find that most white Australians share the same sentiment that Aboriginal Australians were horribly mistreated and misunderstood. Many try their best to show respect for the native people’s culture, and feel remorse for the choices of many of their ancestors.

Useful Travel Phrases for East Coast Australia  

English is the spoken language of Australia, but the Aussie vernacular may leave even a native English speaker perplexed. Slang is so commonly used that you may question if Australians are speaking English at all. No one has time to use full words in Straya!

I have compiled some of the most popular phrases, so you are not left dumbfounded while having a chat with the locals.

Arvo  – afternoon

Barbie  – barbeque

Bottle-O  – liquor store

Esky  – cooler

Mozzie  – mosquito

Fair dinkum  – true, genuine

Grog  – liquor, beer

Roo  – kangaroo

Sheila  – woman

Thong  – flip-flops

Tinny  – can of beer

Stubby  – can of beer

Dunny  – toilet

Bush  – the Outback or anywhere outside of town

What to Eat in Australia

You can find any cuisine you desire in Australia’s major cities.

If you would like to eat like a local does then your diet is going to consist heavily upon meat. Common meals include meat pies, fish and chips, roast dinners, lamb, and Australian bush food.

Native fruit is always a great snack or breakfast idea.

Australians love to stop for ice cream — hey, it is hot!

For an authentic Australian experience be sure to try: Kangaroo, Emu, Vegemite, Tim Tams, and Lamingtons.

Wine is a huge export for Australia with many wine regions throughout the continent. Be sure to try local wine during your visit. Goon— boxed wine — is huge for budget travellers. Beer always remains a popular Aussie staple. Common names in beer include XXXX, VB, Tooheys New, and Carlton Draught.

A Brief History of Australia

Aboriginal Australians arrived on the Australia 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 to 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 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.

East Coast Australia is maybe the best region in the country for backpackers thanks to its huge array of fun things to do! These activities do come with a bit of a price tag but if you’ve taken them into account already in your East Coast Australia budget, they’re totally worth the splurge.

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!

Surfing in East Coast Australia

Surfing is basically a national sport. If you’ve never been on a board before, Australia is a good place to start! You’ll find waves for all skill levels, and even better – you’ll get a taste of the laid-back surfer culture in the small, chill towns on the coast.

There are so many amazing surfing spots in East Coast 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 but travel less than an hour and, boom, you’ll be right in the middle of some prime waves.

Some of the best spots for surfing on the east coast are Byron Bay, Gold Coast (especially Surfer’s Paradise! ), and Noosa.

Most of the towns on the East Coast are a good find for surfers. Going further north, surf waters end around Agnes Waters. The Great Barrier Reef stops the formation of really good waves, and up north, you’ll also have to worry about jellyfish and crocodiles.

Scuba Diving and Snorkelling in East Coast Australia

You can dive nearly everywhere in Australia, so naturally, there is no shortage of dive centres.

Obviously, on the East Coast you’ll find the Holy Grail of diving sites: The Great barrier reef. It’s not quite as glorious as it used to be since climate change and tourism have caused it to erode and bleach quite a bit, but it’s still a fantastic sight with lots of varied, colourful ocean life.

Some of the best places to find excursions to the reef are Cairns and Port Douglas.

Getting underwater is also very accessible for snorkelers so if scuba diving is out of your budget, you still get to enjoy the company of cool fishies.

If a diving certificate is something you would like to pursue, you can easily schedule a course to become PADI Open Water Certified . Prices do vary depending on the course you choose and location. The total cost of scuba diving certification will likely run at about $350-$450.

Festivals in Australia

Australia’s gorgeous weather allows festival-goers the opportunity to celebrate all year round.

Luckily, a tour up the East Coast will offer many options for events and festivals in Sydney and Brisbane, entertainment capital Gold Coast, and super hip Byron Bay. During any given month you can search event pages for all local festivals, concerts, and shows.

Splendour in the Grass, Stereosonic, and Vivid Sydney are all awesome music festivals featured at East Coast venues.

Got questions about backpacking East Coast Australia on a budget? I’ve got answers! Here are some things that many other backpackers have also wondered about.

How much does it cost to backpack around East Coast Australia?

I’d budget $50 a day. The trade-off to being the Land of the High Minimum Wage is that Australia is also the home of pricey everything . With a dorm bed costing around $15 USD per night and food is so expensive you might consider dumpster diving. Luckily, you can work your way around Australia and make some of that cashback.

Where is the best destination for backpackers on East Coast Australia?

Well, everyone goes to Sydney, Byron Bay, and Brisbane. The coast in general is prized backpacking territory but I’d recommend also going inland. The outback is less crowded and beautiful!

Can I travel alone to East Coast Australia?

Helllll yeah! Especially if you stick to backpacking the East Coast, you can always find travel buddies and you won’t feel like you’re travelling alone. However, if you get your own car and head to the outback, Australia is the perfect place to seek solitude as a solo traveller.

What should I drink on East Coast Australia?

Goon and Australian beer are the cheapest options but I don’t know if I can recommend them in good conscience since they’re pretty terrible. My tip is to befriend a local Aussie or an Irish backpacker – the kind of party type that would be sad to see your glass empty.

Are drop bears real? 😉

100% mate, you better watch it.

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East Coast Australia is a backpacker dreamland. An endless coast of pristine beaches makes it the ideal journey for relaxation or adventure.

By the way – tipping in Australia is not expected and can sometimes be considered rude. I once told a cute bartender in Byron Bay to, “keep the change” and he looked at me like I was a huge bitch.

You can use that line on taxi drivers, though, and it will be okay. Restaurants will accept tips if the service was exceptionally good.

The opportunity to discover new wildlife, rainforests and islands is a daily treat. Sailing, surfing, and scuba diving are all worth doing, and you can party in some of the most famous cities in the world.

It does not matter if you are a first-time backpacker or experienced and well versed, East Coast Australia is a land of wonders ready to be explored by anyone!

• Backpacking Fiji
• How to Find Cheap Flights
• Wilderness Cooking 101
• The Best Travel Fishing Rods

Alexandria Zboyovski

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My best memories are the three months I spent diving and sailing along the east coast of Australia. Your article hits many of the highlights – Coogee Coastal Walk, the Great Barrier reef, and the Blue Mountains in Katoomba.

This is an excellent article. Many people do not realise the extent of Australia and how it has so many different climates and cultures. I have not visited yet but hope to do so in the next year or so and top of my list will be snorkeling, followed closely by surfing, and perhaps some bush walking!

Very insightful.. Thanks Much!

Excellent article written by a true explorer.

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Welcome to the glorious country of Australia! We were lucky enough to live and travel around Australia (in particular Melbourne, the Outback and all up the East Coast from Sydney to Cairns) for over 8 weeks. This extended length of time here allowed us to really slow travel and fully explore the majority of key destinations in-depth, plus finding plenty of hidden gems along the way!

From bustling cities, aboriginal culture, an abundance of incredible and whacky wildlife, the rich red Outback, dense lush rainforest, miles and miles of sandy beaches and the Great Barrier Reef bursting with marine life – Australia really is a destination of infinite wonder that everyone must visit in their lifetime.

From our travels here, we’ve perfected the exact 2 month itinerary we followed, explaining in-depth on all the key experiences we recommend, as seen below:

A 2 Month Itinerary for Backpacking East Coast Australia:

Stop 1: Melbourne (5 to 6 days)

• Melbourne Itinerary: The Ultimate 5 Day Guide & Best Things To Do!
• 8 Epic Mornington Peninsula Tours: The Ultimate Guide!

Stop 2: The Outback & Alice Springs (3 to 4 days)

• Uluru Tour from Alice Springs: The Best 3 To 4 Day Options!
• Why The Kangaroo Sanctuary In Alice Springs Should Be On YOUR Bucket List! (Full Review)

Stop 3: Sydney (7 days)

• 7 Days In Sydney: The Ultimate Itinerary & Best Things To Do!

Stop 4: Byron Bay (3 to 4 days)

• Byron Bay Itinerary: The Ultimate 3 Day Guide & Best Things To Do!

Stop 5: Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast (3 to 4 days)

• 21 Epic Things To Do In Surfers Paradise: The Ultimate Guide!

Stop 6: Brisbane & Moreton Island (3 to 4 days)

• How Many Days In Brisbane Is Enough? 1 To 3 Days In Brisbane Itinerary Options!

Stop 7: Noosa Heads & Noosaville (3 days)

• Noosa Itinerary: The Ultimate 3 Day Guide & Best Things To Do!

Stop 8: Fraser Island & Hervey Bay (3 to 4 days)

• The Best Fraser Island 2 Day Tour From Hervey Bay: The Ultimate Guide!
• The Best Whale Watching Tour From Hervey Bay: Our In-Depth Review & How To Book!

Stop 9: Whitsunday Islands & Airlie Beach (3 to 4 days)

• 11 Epic Whitsunday Day Trips From Airlie Beach: Half Day, Full Day & Multi Day Options!

Stop 10: Magnetic Island (4 days)

• Magnetic Island Itinerary: The Ultimate 4 Day Guide & Best Things To Do!

Stop 11: Cairns & Great Barrier Reef (7 days)

• Cairns Itinerary: The Ultimate 7 Day Guide & Best Things To Do!

Useful Backpacking Guides

• Your First Backpacking Trip: The Ultimate Beginners Guide & Checklist!

Australia Facts

Despite its incredulous size, 90% of Australia’s population live on the coast. The majority of the inner land is vast, uninhabitable desert. Australia is home to one of the seven wonders of the world: The Great Barrier Reef. It is the largest eco-system in the world (it is visible from space!) and made up of over 2,500 individual reefs. Australia is the only continent in the world without an active volcano! Australia is home to the world’s only two mammals that lay eggs: the Platypus and the Echidna! We spotted a wild Echidna on Magnetic Island ! The Aboriginal people have lived here for approx 50,000+ years, however now only make up 1.5% of the entire population. The Box Jellyfish (found in warmer Queensland waters of the Great Barrier reef) kills more people than sharks, snakes and saltwater crocodiles combined! 80% of the animals here are endemic, and only found in Australia! Australia’s ‘Dingo Fence’, built to keep dingoes from venturing into sheep grazing land in south-east Australia, is the world’s longest fence – stretching over 3000+ miles! There is more than 10,000 different beaches across the country! If you visited a new beach everyday, it would take you approximately 29 years!

Australia Top Temperatures:

Hottest Temperature 50.7°c, recorded in January 1960, in a remote town in the Outback. Lowest Temperature -8°c, recorded in July 1976, in Yongala, a town near Airlie Beach.

Australia Weather and Seasons

Summer Australia’s Summer months are between  December-February . It brings warm, sun-filled days on the most part. The Outback and North Australia will be almost unbearably hot, for the best and most comfortable weather, head South. It also is jellyfish season on the Great Barrier Reef. On average, the hottest month is January.

Autumn Australia’s Autumn months are between  March-May . Temperatures begin to cool, presenting brilliant autumnal hues of orange and golds. Best weather is mid-East Coast (Byron Bay, Gold Coast or Brisbane).

Winter Australia’s Winter months are between  June-August . North Australia experiences lush warm weather, cooling considerably as you head South. Comfortable weather in the Outback. It is also Humpback whale watching season, see them best at Hervey Bay. On average, the coolest month is July.

Spring Australia’s Spring months are between  September-November . The perfect combination of sunny days, cool nights and beautiful new blooms. It is the last few months of the North’s dry season

Australia’s Wet and Dry Seasons

May – October (Dry Season) The perfect months to visit North of Australia, including Darwin, Broome, Cairns and the Whitsundays (Airlie Beach). Sunnier days, cool nights and virtually jelly-fish free waters.

December – April (Wet Season) Despite the warm weather, the Summer also brings the ‘wet season’ for the tropical North of Australia, bringing heavy ‘monsoon’ rainstorms to areas such as Darwin, Broome, Cairns and the Whitsundays (Airlie Beach).

Australia Wildlife

The Kangaroo Australia’s most well-known animal! There are four types species: red, eastern grey, western grey and antilopine kangaroos. Find out where to have a baby red kangaroo cuddle at  Alice Springs .

The Koala Found in Eucalyptus trees, these fluffy marsupials are native to Australia, sleeping almost 20 hours a day! We spotted them in the wild along the Great Ocean Road in outside of  Melbourne  and many can be found on Magnetic Island .

The Wombat These podgy, short-legged ‘teddy bear like’ marsupials grace Australia with three species: the common, northern and southern hairy-nosed wombats. We saw a few at Featherdale Wildlife Park, Sydney .

The Echidna These intriguing, slow moving creatures are only one of two living egg-laying mammal species. We spotted a few wild ones on  Magnetic Island  outside our accommodation!

The Cockatoo These cheeky (and very noisy!) birds roam freely all across Australia, 14 species to be exact! We spotted  sulphur-crested cockatoo on the Great Ocean Road just outside of Melbourne , and  Airlie Beach . We spotted a yellow-tailed black cockatoo along the  Sydney  Bondi – Coogee walk.

The Duck-Billed Platypus The duck-billed Platypus, a seemingly cute and docile mammal endemic to Australia, has a hidden secret – It is venomous! That’s right, it is one of very few mammals that produces venom, strong enough to kill a small dog or inflict a lot of pain to a human!

The Kookaburra An Infamous Australian icon, known for its unique and noisy call (that sounds like laughter), spot many of these birds on  Magnetic Island . 

The Humpback Whale During April – November, the East Coast of Australia is full of migrating Humpback whales. Don’t miss your opportunity to see them up close and personal at  Hervey Bay . 

The Dugong These docile, slow-moving creatures graze on sea grass in the shallow coastal waters, especially on  Moreton Island , just outside of Brisbane.

The Sea Turtle Six species of sea turtle around Australia: Flatback, Green, Hawksbill, Leatherback, Loggerhead and Olive Ridley. We spotted many on  Moreton Island  and also  Green Island  (off Cairns coast).

The Dingo Introduced to Australia approx. 5,000 years ago, the Dingo is a wild, medium-sized canine and Australia’s largest land predator. Spot them roaming freely in The Outback and Fraser Island .

Camels Yes, you read that right, camels in Australia – Over 1 million wild camels roam the Australian Outback ! They were originally introduced to aid with the railway construction. They are of such pure heritage and breed, that Saudi Arabia actually import in camels from Australia!

Australia’s Capital City

CANBERRA The small city of Canberra was officially made Australia’s Capital in 1913. Sat halfway between Melbourne and Sydney, it was the perfect resolution to Sydney and Melbourne’s disagreements who was the true Capital city.  Fun Fact: In Aborigine, Canberra translates to “woman’s cleavage” – aptly named as the city is cradled between two mountains!

© THE FLAINS TRAVEL · 2024

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• Backpacking Trips

10 Best Backpacking Trips Around the World

The views will leave you as breathless as the treks.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Ruben Earth/Getty Images

Hiking can transport you to waterfalls, high-alpine lakes, and vistas that many people never get to see. But why settle for a single day in the wilderness when you could spend multiple days soaking up the views and sleeping under the stars? Backpacking allows you to go deeper, stay longer, and in some cases, lose the crowds. Plus, there's a wonderful simplicity that comes with only being able to bring what you can carry on your back — you might be surprised by how little you need and how good you feel when you step away from it all.

When you're ready to take your love of hiking to the next level, start with a one- or two-night trip on a familiar route. Once you've got your gear, hiking legs, and general know-how dialed in, you might want to consider taking on a renowned multiday trek. While typically strenuous, these are some of the most beautiful and iconic backpacking trips in the world — just keep in mind that many require hiring a guide and obtaining a permit, so plan your journey well in advance.

Inca Trail, Peru

The Inca Trail is the famous route that leads to Machu Picchu . It provides a once-in-a-lifetime trek that follows the footsteps of a great lost civilization. While most people are in it for the finale, there's plenty more to see along this 26-mile backpacking route, During the trip, which typically takes about four days, you'll hike over Dead Woman's Pass (don't worry, it's not as scary as it sounds) and amid the terraces of Wiñay Wayna while enjoying near-constant views of the Andes.

Torres del Paine W Trek, Chile

This backpacking route cuts through Torres del Paine National Park in the Patagonia region, which is renowned for its stunning mountains and uncannily blue lakes. It's also home to rare wildlife, like the guanaco, a llama-like animal. Hiking the W Trek isn't easy — it covers about 50 miles and takes most people four or five days — but waking up lakeside at the foot of a snowcapped mountain is well worth the effort. The highlight of the hike is standing at the base of the three "towers" (granite peaks) that give the national park its name.

Tour du Mont Blanc, Switzerland, Italy, and France

If you dream of immersing yourself in the Alps, here's your chance. You'll cross international borders on foot as the Tour du Mont Blanc trail passes through France, Italy, and Switzerland, circumnavigating the highest peak in Western Europe. At more than 15,700 feet, Mont Blanc is the star of this backpacking journey. The 105-mile loop includes plenty of lodging — from rustic mountain huts to luxury hotels — and you can use public transportation to shorten the trip if needed. People take anywhere from six to 12 days to complete the hike.

Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim, United States

Millions of people visit Arizona's Grand Canyon National Park each year, but few take on the Rim-to-Rim trail, which dips deep into the canyon and requires an equally steep hike out. The best option is to start at the North Rim on the North Kaibab Trail, then hike out on the Bright Angel Trail, which draws plenty of South Rim day hikers. Most people split the 24-mile trek into two days, even though some fit and experienced desert backpackers can knock it out in one. Either way, hiking from one rim to the other will earn you serious bragging rights.

Panorama Ridge, Canada

Western Canada is full of amazing trails, but Panorama Ridge is extra special. The views are continual along this track, which leads you about 19 miles round trip from the Rubble Creek Trailhead just south of Whistler Village. As you make your way through the stunning Garibaldi Provincial Park, you'll pass fields of wildflowers (depending on the season), a disintegrating volcano, and a high-alpine lake, all while enjoying views of Mount Price and Mount Garibaldi. You can do the full hike over two days or one very long (about 12-hour) day. You also have the option of hiking just half of Panorama Ridge if you start and end at Garibaldi Lake Campground.

El Camino de Santiago, Spain

El Camino de Santiago is a historic Spanish pilgrimage route that leads to the Catedral de Santiago de Compostela. There are many paths to the cathedral, but one of the most scenic is Camino del Norte, which starts in San Sebastian and traverses along the northern coast before meeting up with Camino Primitivo, which is considered to be the original path.

As beautiful as it may be, keep in mind that this backpacking trip is not for the faint of heart — the entire 500-mile spiritual journey takes travelers weeks or even months. Of course, you can always dip in for a section and spend the rest of your holiday sipping on cava at a luxe resort — no judgment.

Kepler Track, New Zealand

Nestled in Fiordland National Park on New Zealand's South Island is the 37-mile Kepler Track, a loop showcasing the highlights of Fiordland: glacier-carved valleys, the sandy shores of Te Anau and Manapouri, waterfalls, and endless mountains. Start your journey from Kepler Track car park and tackle the trail counterclockwise, so you can knock out the most challenging climb up front. Most people take three or four days to complete this classic New Zealand Great Walk.

Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route, Tanzania

What hiker hasn't dreamed of summiting the tallest mountain in Africa? Standing at 19,340 feet, Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenging trek, but your journey up this dormant volcano will reward you with the unforgettable experience of hiking from a bone-dry savanna to a snow-covered peak. If you're going to take on "Kili," you might as well opt for the most beautiful trail — a title well earned by the 42-mile Lemosho Route, which takes most people six to nine days to hike.

Great Ocean Walk, Australia

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The 68-mile Great Ocean Walk hugs the coast of southwest Victoria, running alongside the famous driving route, the Great Ocean Road. Most people hike westbound from Apollo Bay so they can end at the true highlight of the trek: the Twelve Apostles (limestone rock formations rising dramatically from the ocean). Along the way, you'll pass through Great Otway and Port Campbell national parks where you might spot koalas in the canopy or whales in the water. No part of this hike is super steep — it's a coastal walk, after all — but walking on sand can be a challenge. The Great Ocean Walk takes about eight days to finish.

Kumano Kodō, Japan

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The Kumano Kodō is a network of sacred pilgrimage routes — similar to Spain's El Camino — that travels for about 115 miles through bamboo forests and stunning Japanese countryside on the Kii Peninsula of Honshu. Along the route, hikers get plenty of chances to stop at shrines, soak in onsen (hot springs), and take in sights such as waterfalls and terraced rice fields. The trails are steep enough to get your blood pumping, but this immersive glimpse into Japan's history and culture is worth the four- to six-day hike.

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