travel blogs australia

29 Australian Travel Blogs You NEED to Follow in 2024

If you’re in the middle of planning your own Aussie Road Trip or Big Lap of Australia , you’ll no doubt be following loads of travelling blogs with a fine-toothed comb. I certainly did before hitting the road!

There are some fantastic Australian Travel Blogs out there who are sharing their adventures, hints, tips and experiences as they go. In this post you’ll find mostly caravan blogs, plus a few motorhome, tent and campers blogs.

When planning a big trip there are so many unknowns and questions to research. You end up becoming like a sponge, soaking up every little tidbit of information that you can find.

I’ve compiled a list (in no particular order) of some top Australia travel blogs, including lots of families, to help inspire you so that you’re able to be as ready as possible for your own travels. Have a browse and don’t forget to follow the ones that really resonate with you.

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Travel Blogs Australia – CARAVANS

Towns travel oz.

Family Members Bec (37), Wayne (38), Henry (10), Blake (9) and two pups Tyson and Roxy (both 13!).

Travelling Set-up We travel with a Y62 Patrol and a Design RV 22ft caravan. It’s well setup for long term travel and hasn’t let us down in 3 years of full time travel.

2024 Travel Plans We are currently in Exmouth enjoying everything the Ningaloo has to offer and hopefully spending a few months around here and then doing the north of WA in winter.

Follow ‘Towns Travel Oz’ Facebook   | Instagram

Elnick Adventures

Family Members Elenya (28), Nick (28), Lennox (4), Finley (2) and Ollie (1).

Travelling Set-up 2016 Isuzu Dmax with a rooftop Tinnie & 19.9ft Vacationer Rough Rider caravan.

Follow ‘Elnick Adventures’ Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Website | Patreon

The Feel Good Family

Family Members Paul, Katie and Jasper (8).

Travelling Set-up We began our adventures 4.5 years ago in a Toyota Hilux Rugged X and a Windsor Genesis 220MD. In 2022 we upgraded to a Landcruiser 79 series and a Zone RV Sojourn off-road van.

Follow ‘The Feel Good Family’ Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Podcast

Now or Never

Family Members We are Alex (Dad – 37), Erin (Mum – 37), Bella (10) and Toby (8).

Travelling Set-up We are travelling in a 2019 Ford Ranger XLS Sport and a 2021 JB Gator X caravan.

2024 Travel Plans We took off on 8th November 2021 and plan to make it work for as long as we can. This year we’ll be heading north to explore Queensland and the Cape.

Follow ‘Now or Never’ Facebook   | Instagram | YouTube

Life Changing Change

Travelling Tribe Members Kylie, Tyson and two kids, Grace (6) and Jayden (4).

Travelling Set-up We will be travelling in a RAM 1500 and Southern Design RV Mica Series family caravan.

Travel Plans for 2024 We are heading off on an anti-clockwise lap around Australia for about 12 months at this stage, but will see what happens. It may be longer.

Follow ‘Life Changing Change’ Facebook | Instagram

Paul Wheel Drive

Travelling Tribe I’m a solo guy travelling “Trip in a Kilt” across Oz, filming for my YouTube channel “Paul Wheel Drive.” In addition, I maintain my website (link below) with articles providing tips and tricks and ways to stretch your travelling dollar. 

Travelling Set-up My first tow vehicle was a 2012 diesel Prado, towing a 20ft Coromal caravan. My tow vehicle is now a 2015 Ranger Wildtrak, which I bought after my Prado engine blew up due to faulty fuel bought in Kununurra.

Travel Plans for 2024 Currently I am travelling to Tasmania to shoot series 3 for my TV show, Paul Wheel Drive on Channel 31 Melbourne and Channel 44 in Adelaide.

Follow ‘Paul Wheel Drive’ Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Svedos Trippin

Family Members Brett (Dad), Mel (Mum), Kaylee (9) and Owen (7).

Travelling Set-up We are travelling full-time in a 17ft off-road caravan, it’s a VanCruiser family HTO. We tow with a 2017 Mazda BT50, which also carries an awesome little roof top tinny. We are fully set up for off-grid and love taking advantage of free camps when we can.

Travel Plans for 2024 Our plan for 2024 is South West WA for the rest of the summer, up to Ningaloo for winter, followed by the SA coast at the end of the year. We have a new tow rig being built in 2024 that we expect to pick up half way through the year.

Follow ‘Svedos Trippin’ Instagram | YouTube

Overland Exposure

Family Members We are Dan (36), Manda (37) and Aria (6).

Travelling Set-up Our setup is an Iveco Daily 4×4 Truck (set up as a camper in the canopy also) and a 23 ft Retreat Fraser semi-off road caravan. We also have a Sur-Ron Electric Motorbike that comes along for the journey inside the truck for additional transport and off-road exploring.

Travel Plans for 2024 So far, we’ve explored parts of South Australia, Western Australia and some of the Northern Territory. We do like to travel slowly and try to follow the warm weather. 2024 will see us hitting Tasmania, Victoria and more of South Australia.

Follow ‘Overland Exposure’ Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Adams Family Travels

Family Members Dale (50) and Tracey (51).

Travelling Set-up We are travelling in our 300 Series Landcruiser and a 21ft Retreat Daydream full off-road caravan. Our new van allows us to spend more time off-grid with all the creature comforts at our fingertips.

Travel Plans for 2024 We have been travelling full-time since April 2021. This year we plan on exploring Victoria and South Australia, attending the Mundi Mundi Bash and visiting K’Gari (Fraser Island) while organising everything to visit Arnhem Land.

Follow ‘Adams Family Travels’ Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Our Aussie Advantures

Family Members Emily (31), Todd (30), Audrey (6) and Annabelle (4).

Travelling Set-up We have a custom built 2021 Ocean Breeze double bunk caravan towed by a Holden Colorado (with a rooftop tinny).

Travel Plans for 2024 This year we will be exploring Western Australia and Queensland.

Follow ‘Our Aussie Adventures’ Instagram

Our Whittle Adventure

Family Members Mark (Dad – 33), Clem (Mum – 34), Liam (4), Heath (Newborn) Kosta (Black-tan Kelpie) and Curi (Red Kelpie).

Travelling Set-up We are travelling in a 2006 Landcruiser 100 series 1HD-FTE, towing a 2020 21ft New Age – Road Owl Adventurer plus.

Travel Plans for 2024 We have just welcomed another bub to the family so we have been stationary for a while but hoping to be back on the road by April. No drastic changes to our set up, just a few upgrades to make our life a little easier. Better battery monitoring, better storage, more weight availability etc. Getting itchy feet big time!

Follow ‘Our Whittle Adventure’ Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Livin Like Kings

Family Members We are Bianca (43) and Grant (40). We travel with our 2 dogs Frank (French Bulldog x Staffy) and Baxter (Labrador).

Travelling Set-up We’re travelling in our 2007 Ford F350 and 2003 Bushtracker Caravan.

Travel Plans for 2024 We have been travelling full-time since March 2021, documenting our journeys on YouTube. We will be exploring NSW and QLD through 2024.

Follow ‘Livin Like Kings’ Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Lotzys Adventures

Family Members Aaron & Anna Lotz with our son Ethan who is 16. We also have our twin daughters Sienna & Payton who are 19 and our older son Jayden (20) join us from time to time on the road. Keeps things very interesting coordinating with where we will be and arranging to meet up!

Travelling Set-up We have a 2021 Ford Ranger Wildtrak Bi-Turbo with a GVM upgrade and have a touring set-up. Our caravan is a 20.6ft Willow Boab, which has bunks. We love this van as it’s off-road and light weight! We also travel with tents for when we have more than four of us on the road. 

Travel Plans for 2024 We started our lap of Australia in December 2021. We left from the Gold Coast and have travelled quite quickly through NSW & some of VIC. Thankfully, we have now slowed down and are about to start the Great Ocean Road (with 7 of us in tow!). We are planning on doing as much of the lap going clockwise as we can with plans to hit SA, WA, NT and the top of QLD over the next year. We are trying to be flexible in our plans but have quite a few things on our bucket list such as Lucky Bay, Ningaloo, Horizontal Falls, Gibb River Road, Arnhem Land and Cape York. As a very active family we love to get outside and explore!

Follow ‘Lotzys Adventures’ Instagram

Packing Up to Travel Australia

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Lapping Oz

Family Members We are a family of four, originally from Western Sydney. Adam, Mia and our two children Jett (16) & Skye (13).

Travelling Set-up We are touring Australia in a pre-loved 2011 Coromal Magnum Transforma XC450 Off-Road Caravan. It is a similar concept to the Jayco Expanda and a Windsor Rapid. The caravan had a makeover before we left, including new linen curtains and new dining seat upholstery. During 2021, we gave the caravan some fresh lovin’ after living in it for 2.5 years full-time. Our towing vehicle is a 2014 Volkswagen Amarok that we have owned since new. The Amarok hasn’t missed out on the TLC, with a repaint in Raptor Coating. It’s a tough, scratch-resistant paint – perfect for how we live and play with our 4×4!

2024 Travel Plans This year we have permanently relocated to Tropical North Queensland. We plan to visit and explore our new region. We will be doing trips and venturing out in the same van that we did the Big Lap in a few years ago. There is so much to see and experience and we are looking forward to sharing more about our new surroundings throughout the year.

Follow ‘Lapping Oz’ Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Big Oz Explorers

Family Members Chris (36), Sian (36), Jayda (10) and Jack (4).

Travelling Set-up Nissan Patrol S5 Y62 and Zone RV 21ft Sojourn Family.

Travel Plans for 2024 This year is a bit of a shift for us as we transition to the other side of the campfire. We are super excited to be planning and starting up our own camping location for people to come and stay. The whole journey will be shared on our socials and YouTube channel.

Follow ‘Big Oz Expolorers’ Website | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram

Travel Around the Country

Family Members Dave, Hayley, Harlan (11) and Keira (10).

Travelling Set-up We have a 2020 Leader Gold 21.6ft Bunk Van and our trusty 100 Series Landcruiser Sahara Turbo Diesel.

Travel Plans for 2024 After doing a full lap in 2011 for our honeymoon, a half lap in 2015 and 4 months in QLD in 2020, we then spent 2022 taking the kids to some of our favourite places around Australia. This year we’re doing smaller trips including some farm stays and and free camps.

Follow ‘Travel Around the Country’ Website

All Around Oz

Family Members Annette and Kevin.

Travelling Set-up We have a 2022 Y62 Patrol and a fully customised Urban X-Terrain off-road dual axel van.

What we plan to tackle in 2024 We are currently in Yandina, heading for Teewah and then the Gold Coast and Iluka. From there we’ll move down to Bendigo and explore SA until the chill sets in and then head up the centre exploring along the way. Flinders Ranges, Coober Pedy, Alice West and East Macs, Uluru, Kings Canyon and up to Darwin. We’ll end up WA and spend most of this year over there, then maybe head back across the Nullarbor.

Follow ‘All Around Oz’ Website | Facebook | Instagram

Curious Campers

Family Members Steve & Natalie

Travelling Set-up Pajero Sport with a renovated Regent Cruiser Caravan & Swags when the adult kids join us.

2024 Travel Plans Our daughter is now working as a Scuba Instructor and Underwater Photographer and is on the move from Cairns to Exmouth and our son is based in Karratha. It will be a great excuse to head to WA this year. We also have trips planned to Sunshine Coast, Northern New South Wales and Yorke Peninsula in SA. As for the second half of the year, we are not sure yet.

Follow ‘Curious Campers’ Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest

Adventure By 3

Family Members Stacey (39), Carl (40), Zed (12), Kiki (10) and Roo (9).

Travelling Set-up We have a 2018 New Age Gecko 16BE with triple bunks, towed by a 2021 Toyota Prado GXL.

2024 Travel Plans We will spend this year doing local trips around Tassie and also heading around the South Island of New Zealand in a motorhome.

Follow ‘Adventure by 3’ Website | Facebook | Instagram

Our Wayfaring Life

Family Members Our travelling tribe is made up of my husband Daryl, myself (Emma) and our dog Chika.

Travelling Set-up 2006 Toyota Prado we named Stanley after one of our favourite towns we visited in Tasmania and Josephine our 1990’s Viscount Vogue Pop Top caravan.

Travel Plans This year we are starting in Victoria before heading over to South Australia. Our plan this year is to stretch our travel money by working regular odd jobs as we travel.

Follow ‘Our Wayfaring Life’ Website | Facebook | Instagram

Seeking The Serenity

Family Members Lisa, Rex and Marlee (3).

Travelling Set-up We started our travels in a 100 Series LandCruiser fully set up for free camping so we could ditch the caravan when the need for extra adventure arises (roof top tent, swag, shower, fridge, cookers etc.). 25 foot (we know… it was massive) Spaceland Sydney caravan with ensuite and spare room/ study. We renovated her ourselves to make her a home. But, we have since sold the caravan and bought a boat!

What are our 2024 travel plans 2021 saw us move to an island off East Arnhem Land and basing ourselves from there. Rex is working has a contract as a Primary School Teacher and Lisa is a Nurse. We have decided to stay on our remote islands for another year and base ourselves there, travelling and exploring the islands and surrounds. We are making great friends and learning so much from the amazing people out here. Marlee is learning the local language (she’ll be teaching us soon!). Unfortunately our Rusty Boy (beloved dog) passed away last year, but it’s nice to know we showed him all the best beaches and sticks in the last few years.

Follow ‘Seeking the Serenity’ Facebook | Instagram

Young Adventures Australia

Family Members Jaidyn (23), Maddy (22), Alfie is a 5-year-old Staffy x Bullterrior and Willow is a 2-year-old Labrador x Cattle – possibly Australia’s youngest full-time Nomads!

Travelling Set-up 2004 Trition named “Big stretchy” due to her massive 1m chassis extension done by creative conversions. 2003 Jayco Heritage pop top ensuite caravan.

Our 2024 Travel Plans We will likely head over to South Australia and back up to Queensland at some point. We play things by the ear so to say.

All of my hard work and dedication that I’ve been pouring into AMD Touring is also starting to turn some results becoming a small stream of income. I’ll continue to add more Australian manufacturers and products, as well as growing the affiliate team! AMD Touring is your one-stop-shop for high quality Australian Made 4WD, Camping and Caravanning gear!

Follow ‘Young Adventures Australia’ Facebook | Website

Aussie Road Adventure

Family Members Julie-Ann, Graeme & Coco (the cat) travelling full-time, originally from Brisbane.

Travelling Set-up Jayco Starcraft (JS0875) with a Mitsubishi Challenger (heavily tweaked).

Our Travel Plans We’re spending time in southern Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania. Hoping to find a few house/ pet/ farm sits to help with the travel funds and also have a social media support business. We both ran screaming from the building of our corporate lives and have no regrets!

Follow ‘Aussie Road Adventure’ Facebook

Not Grey Nomads

Family Members We are Frannie (45), Crispy (48) & furbaby Bella, who is about 11 now.

Travelling Set-up Brutus is our 2015 dual cab Holden Colorado with rooftop tent and toolboxes. Then there’s Myrtle, who’s our second hand 22ft 2003 Roadstar Voyager 3000 Caravan.

What are our travel plans for 2024? We will still be travelling and plodding along with the blog, although you’ll mostly find us on Facebook, Insta and YouTube. We’re in Broome working at the moment, setting off again in March to head south in WA. We’re working on getting a new van in 2024 and have a bit of stuff we want to share about living in an older van before then.

Follow ‘Not Grey Nomads’ Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest

Keep reading for Australian Camper Travel Blogs!

Off the Trax

Family Members We are a family of four – Ally, Willow & two kids aged 12 and 14.

Travelling Set-up We have a 76 series Landcruiser, which we’ve been slowly modifying to suit our touring needs. We upgraded from a Jayco Swan to an 18ft off-road JB Gator in 2022 and have been taking that to some amazing places ever since.

Our 2024 Travel Plans We just got back from K’gari (Fraser Island) with planning underway for a bigger trip such as the Simpson Desert later in the year. We also have lots of trips planned for South East QLD like Kenilworth, Bribie Island and hopefully get back over to Moreton or Straddie as well.

Follow ‘Off the Trax’ Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Vantastic Aus

Travel Crew Leah and Aidan (both 51)

Travelling Set-up Ram 2500 with Tailgate Camper on rear plus Bushtracker 20ft van.

Travel Plans for 2024 Our 2024 travel plans include as much red dirt exploring as we can! We still do property and station caretaking, plus picking up work on the road as we go.

Follow ‘Vantastic Aus’ Facebook   |  Instagram | YouTube

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Travel Blogs Australia – CAMPERS

Nana on the road.

Travel Members Hi, my name is Gaye, a full-time solo traveller working online 3 days per week.

Travelling Set-up I carry a hard-shell slide-on camper on a 6×4 Dmax spacecab. My slide-on is fully self-contained with solar and a full bathroom. My ute is also set up for remote camping without the slide-on.

2024 Travel Plans I will be leaving in February for an inland loop taking in SA, NT and outback QLD before heading back to Central NSW at the end of the year. This year I have also started a YouTube channel.

Follow ‘Nana on the Road’ Facebook | Instagram   |  YouTube | Website | Buy Me a Coffee

Read on for Motorhome Australia Travel Blogs!

Travel Blogs Australia – MOTORHOMES

Indefinite leave.

Family Members Kevin & Adele Hockey (mid-late 50’s). Travelling Australia since 1 Feb, 2016.

Travelling Set-up 2009 Winnebago Esperance Motorhome – acquired October 2015 and we have been living in it for nearly 4 years. Plus, we now also have a 2015 Mitsubishi Triton 4WD with Canopy which we recently purchased a few months ago and fitted out ourselves.  The addition of the Triton has allowed us to already explore Fraser Island and Moreton Island as well as providing us with a separate vehicle to run around in.

Travel Plans for 2024 This year will see us managing a resort on Fraser Island. So, we will make the most of our time there and explore all that Fraser has to offer… plus fishing. Lots of fishing.

Follow ‘Indefinite Leave’ Facebook | Instagram | Website | YouTube

Keep reading for Tent Australian Travel Blogs!

Travel Blogs Australia – TENTS & SWAGS

Take it ezy.

Travelling Tribe Skye (40) and John (50).

Travelling Set-up We are traveling in a Darche Roof Top Tent. At times we also use swags depending on the location and time away. We drive a 2017 Holden Colorado Z71 and are set up for off-grid.

2024 Travel Plans Travelling to Flinders Ranges, Outback SA, Coorong, Queensland, plus a sneaky trip overseas!

Follow ‘Take It Ezy’ Facebook | Instagram

Travel Planning Tools

35 thoughts on “29 Australian Travel Blogs You NEED to Follow in 2024”

Thank you for compiling such a comprehensive list. I got to learn about other people experience, and it was really useful.

An awesome list Emma. Have been following you (since Julia Creek, six months into your first trip) and a number of these blogs for a while now. Just love the adventure.

Ahh yes, I remember. Were we camped near each other.. or did I meet you at the Walkabout Creek Hotel?

My husband and I have been travelling Australia in our hybrid van for over a year now. We also have a blog – Flannerysfootprints.wordpress.com I love looking at travel blogs especially by seniors like us!

This is such a great list, thanks for putting it together. I love reading about other peoples experiences in Australia! I also run an expat travel and would love for you to check it out! passportdownunder.com.

Travelling Oz Our Way Been on the road fulltime for 12 months

Great to see so many Aussie’s living the dream! Great wrap up Emma! We will join them all next year once our van arrives, can’t wait!

Wahoo, that’s exciting!

A fantastic blog list you have added here. Thanks for all the great sites which I have found on here.

Awesome list! Makes me look forward to when borders reopen and we can explore the Great Southern Land once again!

I’d also recommend the ATAS blog, which is run by the Australian Federation of Travel Agents. Lots of articles about both international and local destinations, in-the-know tips from travel agents and so on.

Goodness what an epic list, for an epic country! I love how you have included so many families as well so you get a diverse range if opinions about what is good to visit.

This makes it looks like travelling for a long time around Aus in some kind of van/RV is the way to go!

Being such a huge country, a caravan, motorhome or camper is the best way to get around.

We’ve been following My Rig Adventures. Just like our 8 years RVibg North America, we would like to do it in Australia, too!

We love reading your stuff as well because we’re keen to do some RVing across the States.

I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Sydney for 3 weeks during my college times. Can’t wait to be back to Australia and explore the country beyond Sydney! It’s great that you shared so many useful blogs that I could go back to and refer to when planning my next trip with my husband.

There is so much to explore beyond Sydney, but that definitely gives you a great start. Hopefully you can get back down here one day.

There sure are a lot of travel blogs about Australia! And we’ll make sure to read all these travel blogs before planning our trip to Australia.

It’s a huge thing right now for families and younger people to take off around Australia on ‘The Big Lap.’ So, there are loads of people sharing their experiences for others. It’s great.

Wow, this is such an informative blog post, thank you for sharing! I’ve been to Australia three times now, but the first two times were for work and didn’t allow me much time to explore. Last year we spent a few days in Melbourne and drove the Great Ocean Road which was great! But it’s such a vast country with so many more places to explore so I’m saving this article for future reference 🙂

I can appreciate that work trips really don’t let you explore too much. They’re just a tease really. Funnily enough, we haven’t even done the Great Ocean Road yet, but we’re getting there. Even living here and travelling, the country is just so vast, it all takes time.

Australia is a country I always want to visit, but my fear of snakes won’t really let me at the moment! Maybe reading these bloggers will make me feel a little better about it!

If you visit the big cities you won’t see any snakes, so that’s an option for you.

Wow! This is an amazing list of bloggers and surely all their help and advice would be all anyone needed to help them plan their trip to Australia! So helpful to have so many listed in one place 🙂

It’s a huge collection full of people with loads of experience.

This list is such a great resource! Also, thank you for sharing everyone’s family units. If I’m traveling with kids it is super useful to hear about the experience of others with kids who are around the same general age.

Definitely. It’s always helpful to look at the experiences of those in a similar situation.

Thanks for compiling this helpful list! I’m always really grateful when researching new destinations to find that someone has already done all the leg work and gathered useful information into one place!

Thanks Carly-jo 🙂

Fittingly, a massive list for a massive country. Nice round-up!

Haha massive indeed.

I wish all the best on your journey in Tasmania Annette Dale and the boys

What about Trip in a Van…they have have 40 thousand followers on You tube, Instagram & Facebook. Another one is Sparkys on the Loose – a young couple that alot of people without kids can relate. Thanks.

Yeah everyone knows TIAV. We asked Sparkys if they wanted to be included but they said they’re having a bit of a break to restock the bank balance.

Just started one and hoping to add more content this year getting ready to travel next year hopefully. Recon Adventurers on Facebook , Insta and YouTube.

Wahoo, that’s super exciting!

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The 10 best Australian travel blogs to inspire you

We love to travel!

While there may have been travel restrictions in place since early 2020, Australians have switched their overseas plans and decided on a local adventure exploring our beautiful home country.

And my oh my, there’s so much to experience!

To stay inspired during the restrictions, we decided to step back and live vicariously through some of our favourite travel bloggers from across Australia.

After reading about all the amazing Australian destinations and travel guides, we couldn’t help but share some of the best travel blogs we’ve been following. If you want some travel inspiration and are patiently awaiting your next local adventure, check out these 10 amazing Australian bloggers.

1. West Australian Explorer | Western Australia

West Australian Explorer was created and is managed by an Australian travel blogger, Nina. The blog content is focused around outdoor adventures, beaches, water sports and family-friendly (including pets) fun in unmissable destinations across Western Australia.

Search the website based on your interests or your travel location – West Australian Explorer makes it easy to find the best local travel destinations.

While West Australian Explorer focuses on many rural destinations across WA, it also highlights some of the best day trips from Perth. If you’re located close to Perth, check out the website for trip ideas to places like York, the Swan Valley, Serpentine Falls and more.

Recommend reads:

• Tips for a stress-free pet-friendly holiday
• Perth to Exmouth Road Trip – here’s all you need to know for an awesome drive
• 10 unmissable attractions in the Margaret River Region

2. ZigaZag | Western Australia

The ZigaZag was created by a local West Australian travel blogger, Jo, as a resource to help users find things to do across our vast state.

The Australian travel blog includes a complete list of towns and regions from A to Z so you can research your travel destination by searching the towns name.

Searching for the best restaurants in your area?

ZigaZag also includes a dedicated section on local WA restaurants with reviews so you can grab a coffee or bite to eat before starting your day of travel.

• How to Embrace Winter in Western Australia (Top Tips and Getaways)
• Things to do in Carnarvon – Gateway to the Ningaloo Coast
• Why you should escape The Kimberley in Western Australia

3. Summerstar Tourist Parks | Western Australia

The Summerstar Travel Blog (our very own) provides a resource full of travel guides, travel tips, family-friendly travel ideas and unmissable West Australian holiday destinations.

Updated regularly, you’ll find information on the latest newly-opened tourist destinations, be kept up to date with seasonal events in regional areas and check out the most unique and memorable local tours and experiences.

For the latest travel advice and holiday destination ideas, make sure you follow Summerstar Tourist Parks on Facebook and Instagram .

• Great South West Road Trip – Your Perth to Esperance Itinerary
• How to Find WA’s Best Beach Fishing Destinations
• Coral Coast Road Trip – Your Perth to Kalbarri Itinerary

4. Let Me Be Free Blog | Australia

Anne from the Let Me Be Free blog is an Australian travel blogger who shares her experiences online while travelling and taking road trips through Australia. She travels with her partner and two children, so you’ll find a lot of family-friendly travel ideas and advice on the Let Me Be Free blog.

While the Let Me Be Free blog primarily focuses on travel in Australia, there’s also some travel advice and guides for overseas locations such as New Zealand, Africa, Asia, North America and more.

• Getting off-road with a 4wd club
• Keeping Healthy While Camping
• My favourite things to do in Busselton

5. Dirty Drifters | Australia

Perth locals Adam & Tahnee manage the Dirty Drifters Australian travel blog. They continue to provide insightful travel tips, their top holiday destinations and advice for 4wd enthusiasts as they travel across Australia.

Setting out on a journey of Australia in early 2018, the Dirty Drifters have mapped out their favourite stops along the way as they explore everything that makes Australia such an amazing travel destination. Travelling by 4wd, they also take on more ‘off-the-beaten-track’ type adventures in rural and often remote destinations.

• Keep Calm & Carry on in Karijini, Western Australia
• CREB Track - 4WD Adventure in the Tropical Rainforest
• Camping with Wombats in Australia!

6. Trip In A Van | Australia

“We packed up and sold our home to live the dream!” – Trip In A Van

Justin and Bec took the plunge with their three kids, sold their home, purchased a caravan and set out on an unmissable adventure across Western Australia.

And reading through their blog, they most certainly made the right choice!

If you’re hoping to one day travel Australia by caravan on a budget, then follow along with the Trip In A Van team. With travel advice, must-see destinations and budgeting ideas while travelling, Trip In A Van cover all the bases, providing honest and insightful travel advice.

Travelling in a family unit of five, you’ll also find a bunch of family-friendly focused content.

• Packing Up Your House to Travel Australia – Here’s A Few Tips!!

7. Travelling Australia With Kids | Australia

Planning your next adventure with kids in tow?

Travelling Australia With Kids (TAWK) is the ultimate resource for travel tips, budgeting guides and family-friendly destinations for families looking to explore Australia. The Aussie travel blog has thousands of followers and are often providing amazing advice through their social channels - so be sure to give them a follow.

While you're there, consider signing up and becoming a TAWKer! TAWKers receive discounted accommodation and special offers from local Australian businesses. Check out the Summerstar TAWK page for special offers available at Summerstar Tourist Parks.

• Travel Budget Tips
• Homeschooling In Australia
• The TAWK Pose!

8. Curious Campers Australia | Australia

Based in South Australia, Natalie and Steve live a life of curiosity as they travel around Australia writing and sharing their favourite destinations. Originally travelling in a family unit of four, these Australian travel bloggers are now back on the road travelling as a curious team of two.

As they describe it, “We want to inspire you to see Australia” – and inspire they do!

While you can search the website based on state, we recommend jumping into the ‘Chin Wag’ section for some unique travel advice covering unusual situation you often can’t plan for.

• Karijini – Camping in Nature’s Playground
• Staircase to the Moon Broome
• Chasing Super Pit Blast Times in Kalgoorlie

9. Coasting Australia | Australia

Travelling as a young family team of four, Coasting Australia writes about their adventures exploring amazing Australian destinations.

As a family, Coasting Australia provides handy travel advice for other families looking to keep their kids entertained when travelling long distances.

Where possible, their kelpie-cross fur child Bobby joins along on the adventure, so you can also find some great pet-friendly travel advice – perfect if your four-legged pal likes to join along on your holiday.

• 5 Things to do in Perth Now
• Perth Beaches – The Ultimate Guide
• The Best Perth Picnic Spots with Kids

10. A Big Peachy Adventure | Australia

With an extensive list of caravan tips, useful travel gear and must-see destinations, Natalie and Michael (along with their three kids) provide amazing insight into travelling as a young family by caravan.

While not so active lately, A Big Peachy Adventure also have a family travel podcast with many hours of travel advice for parents dreaming of taking their own family on an outback adventure across Australia.

• 5 Best Options for Drying Clothes in a Caravan [Pros & Cons]
• Caravanning Tips 47 Travelling Families Wish They’d Learned Sooner
• How To Stop Your Caravan From Swaying [6 Simple Tips]

Did these Australian travel blogs inspire you?

Well then, what are you waiting for!

Book your next adventure with Summerstar Tourist Parks . With family-friendly caravan parks located across Western Australia, Summerstar ensures you have a relaxing and hassle-free holiday no matter your destination.

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Two Weeks in Australia: The Ultimate Itinerary

So you’ve got a trip planned for two weeks in Australia. Now what? Well the good news is you have arrived at the right place. Having grown up in Australia and spending a lot of my life exploring my home country, I’ve got an endless list of suggestions to make your trip a memorable one.

While two weeks isn’t long enough to see it all, it is certainly a good amount of time to see the highlights.

In this post you will find everything you need to know to plan your visit to Australia. This is a highlights tour of the country and will show you how much you can fit in with just two weeks.

If you have more time to spend in Australia, consider some of these great destinations as extensions to your trip.

Two Weeks in Australia

While you could easily spend two months exploring all Australia has to offer, this trip is designed as a highlights itinerary to see the country for the first time.

Days 1-4 in Australia

Sydney (Day trip to the Blue Mountains)

Days 4-7 in Australia

Melbourne (Day trips to Philip Island & Great Ocean Road)

Days 7-10 in Australia

Cairns (Day trips to Great Barrier Reef & Port Douglas)

Days 10-14 in Australia

Alice Springs (Day trips to Uluru and Kata Tjuta)

Arriving in Sydney

The first stop in your itinerary is Sydney, easily Australia’s most iconic city. While it is not the capital (but often confused for it), we could say Sydney is the cultural capital of Australia.

Once you have settled into your accommodation, waste no time in getting to know this city. Make your way down to Sydney’s famous harbour, where you can marvel at the Sydney Opera House and the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge .

On your second day in Sydney you might consider an early morning bridge climb to see Sydney from above. This will give you an unforgettable 360-degree panoramas of the city and is best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset for a soft glow over the city.

Day Trip to the Blue Mountains

On the third day of your visit to Australia, take a tour or a rental car out to see the beautiful Blue Mountains. It is less than an hour to drive, so if you have the budget for a car this is the best way to see the mountains on your own agenda.

A trip to the Blue Mountains deserves a day in full. There are some great short hikes to take in the scenery, as well as some great country towns to explore. This is where you will get a real feel for the Australian countryside culture.

As you land in Melbourne after the short 90 minute flight, hop on the Skybus for a quick trip into town. If there are more than two of you, it is often cheaper to jump in an uber but if you’re travelling alone, the SkyBus is a steal.

Once you’ve settled in to your accommodation, be sure to wander around the Colonial city of Melbourne at night. Pop by the Yarra River and you will quickly be enamoured with this city.

On the next day be sure to find Melbourne’s famous coffee scene and if you’re hungry, you’ll get a great brunch in Degraves Street. Melbourne is a city best explored on foot and when you tire of walking, trams in the city centre are completely free.

Read more: The 10 best things to do in Melbourne

Day Trip to Philip Island

After a busy day in the city of Melbourne, it is time for an escape to the wilder side of Australia. Philip Island is a short 1.5 hour drive from Melbourne and is best visited by rental car. Take the Monash Freeway (M1) to the Cranbourne exit, and turn into the South Gippsland Highway (M420). Follow this route to the Bass Highway (A420), through Grantville and Bass, then onto Phillip Island Road (B420) to San Remo, over the bridge onto Phillip Island.

If you can’t rent a car or would prefer not to, there are a few options to get to Philip Island by public transport. You can travel by bus or by combining train + ferry. These options take a lot longer, so you may want to consider joining a day tour from Melbourne to maximise your time on the island.

Day Trip to The Great Ocean Road

On the next day, wake up early and depart Melbourne for another day trip. This time to The Great Ocean Road, one of Australia’s most talked about day trips and an essential trip while staying in Melbourne!

The drive is 2.5 hours from Melbourne and the scenery en route is priceless. On this drive you will get a real feel for the Australian coastline and beach culture.

Of course, you can’t do the drive without finishing at the 12 apostles. This is one of the most photographed locations in the entire country. Believe me when I say it is worth the extra effort!

After your time in Melbourne and surrounds, board a flight from Melbourne to Cairns. The flight will take a little over 3 hours and plant you at the very top of Australia.

Queensland is the quintessential sunny state and Cairns will be your base to explore the Great Barrier Reef. But that’s not all. Cairns is a great starting point to explore some of Australia’s best beaches. Up here in the Northern tropics is where you will experience some of the best weather in Australia.

Once you arrive, take the time to book tours to the reef if you haven’t already done so in advance. Enjoy a relaxing day after all the travel and get ready for a day full of adventure tomorrow!

Day Trip to the Great Barrier Reef

Let me start by saying there are a lot of companies offering tours to the Great Barrier Reef. This is one of the most sought after day trips in the country and reason enough to visit Australia. The tour will take up your entire day, but it is a memory that will last forever.

Check out this page to compare tours and prices .

Day Trip to Port Douglas

For your next day, take a step back from activities and relish in the beach culture of Australia. Port Douglas is a beautiful beach town community with plenty of beaches, cafes and boutiques to explore. Make sure to take it easy today as tomorrow, an adventure to the Australian outback begins!

Alice Springs

Start your day early as there is only one flight connection worth taking. The best flight between Cairns and Alice Springs is with Qantas, departing Cairns at 6:00 am sharp. In a little more than four hours, you will arrive in Alice Springs.

Alice Springs is the gateway to Uluru and Kata Tjuta, the most sacred places for indigenous Australians.

Uluru & Kata Tjuta

From Alice Springs, take a two-day camping trip to the beautiful sights of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. One of my favourite experiences to be had in the country was a night time “sounds of silence” tour. As the name suggests, there is an emphasis placed on connecting to the land through silence.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your Australian adventure today!

This blog post was a request from a reader via Instagram . If you have a post to request, please visit our suggestions page !

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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Australia Travel Blogs

These are all of my australia travel blogs.

From exploring the great barrier reef, to enjoying the most adventurous activities,  find out the best places to travel to in Australia here, in my Australia travel blogs.

Happy exploring!

How To Plan A Family Road Trip in Australia In 2024: Routes & Tips

From bucket list routes and kid-friendly activities, to top tips for an easy trip, read this before planning a family road trip in Australia.

10 Amazing Food And Wine Experiences In Adelaide And Beyond

From visiting Adelaide Central Market, to beachfront dining on the Fleurieu Peninsula and wine tasting in McLaren Vale, these are the best food and wine experiences in Adelaide and beyond.

Top places to visit on a south australia road trip.

From wine tasting in McLaren Vale or the Clare Valley, to hiking in Flinders Ranges National Park, this South Australia road trip itinerary highlights the best of the state.

23 facts about sydney harbour bridge.

From its impressive architecture to exciting stunts, there are plenty of fascinating facts about Sydney Harbour Bridge!

Unique things to do in queensland.

Known for its stunning beaches and wildlife, Queensland in Australia is paradise on earth, and packed full of unique things to do. 

Queensland is somewhere that’s been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. It just looks incredible! I mean, those beaches, the underwater life, relaxed days in the sunshine – it looks like one of the dreamiest places on the planet!

Australia’s 2 nd largest state, Queensland is actually seven times the size of Great Britain. So, don’t think this is somewhere you can tick off in a few days. If you want to really explore, give yourself a good amount of time to get around, and mix up beach time with cultural and food spots too.

Flight Centre challenged me to find some truly unique things to do, for my dream trip to the region… so here goes. And while there are a few magical beach adventures, there’s plenty more to this part of Oz too.

Climb To The Top Of The Q1 Building

Ready for one of the ultimate views over the Gold Coast? 270m up, SkyPoint Climb in Surfer’s Paradise is Australia’s highest external building climb. London’s Shard is only 30m higher, which really puts it into perspective for me! I can only imagine that incredible sense of achievement once you reach the top. They also offer twilight and night climbs to see the region lit up by twinkly lights! Not feeling so brave, take the lift to the 77 th floor to the SkyPoint Observation Deck .

Take A Dip In Champagne Pools

What a unique swimming spot! Located on Fraser Island, these natural rock pools get their name from the way the waves crash on the volcanic rock, creating frothy bubbles. As many of the beaches aren’t patrolled in the region, and there are dangers including strong currents and sharks, it’s a great safe place for a swim too.

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Here you will find all my travel blogs on Australia

Australia! What a country, so vast, so beautiful. But also, so much variety, different animals and different types of landscape! We travelled to Australia twice. The first time we only saw Cairns (for diving to the Great Barrier Reef) and Sydney. And that first time tasted like more and so now we go to Australia for a second time! This time we will stay a lot longer and travel from Brisbane to Melbourne in seven weeks*: a road trip to explore the east coast of Australia.

We share all our experiences, knowledge and impressions in blogs about Australia. Blogs with tips, travel guides, nice hotels and possible itineraries for Australia! But also personal diary blogs about this beautiful country.

The ultimate itinerary for the east coast of Australi a

Below you will find the ultimate itinerary for a road trip of the east coast in Australië! This itinerary is for six weeks, but can be shortened into two or four weeks in Australia!

The six-weeks itinerary for Australia is as follows: Brisbane – Fraser Island – Noosa -Gold Coast – Byron Bay – Sydney – Great Ocean Road- Melbourne

All of our blogs on Australia

The most popular Australia blogs:

• Australia travel budget : How expensive is a road trip through Australia?
• Australia east coast itinerary : the ultimate guide for a roadtrip along the east coast of Australia!
• The ultimate travel guide Byron Bay !
• Must do: a self-drive road trip through Fraser Island!

Facts about traveling through Australia

Best p eriod:  November till March How long:   2 weeks to 6 months Favourite hotels:  click here for an overview of the best hotels in Australia !  

Flight deals: click here  for the most actual flight deals to Australia! Type of trip:  backpacking, road trip, couple, family trip

Get a 20% discount on a Spaceships campervan for your last minute vacation in Australia! Book & travel before the 20th of Decem ber and have the same pick up and delivery location !  Click here for the deal and more information!

All of our blogs on Australia:

Hotel guide australia: the best hotels on the east coast of australia, budget australia and prices: what does a road trip in australia cost, travel guide brisbane, australia: 12 things to do in 3 days in hotspot brisbane, things to do in byron bay australia: 9 hotspots and the best beaches, fraser island 4x4 self drive: a 3 day itinerary to this famous island in australia, diary blog australia: brisbane, fraser island, noosa and the fear of the coronavirus, itineraries east coast australia: ultimate road trips for 2 to 6 weeks traveling along the coast, diary blog | the impact of the coronavirus on our world trip: immediately going home, noosa australia: 6 cool things to do in and around noosa at the sunshine coast.

* Unfortunately, the coronavirus threw a spanner in the works and we had to return home after three weeks Australia. As a result, we were only able to visit the north of the east coast.

Australia Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 1, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in australia.

1. See Sydney

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

2. Visit Uluru

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

3. Dive the Great Barrier Reef

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

4. Explore Melbourne

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

5. Sail the Whitsundays

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

Other Things to See and Do in Australia

1. explore fraser island.

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

2. Visit Cairns

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

3. Wander Brisbane’s South Bank

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

4. Hike the Daintree

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

5. See Perth

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

6. Explore the Outback

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

7. Surf on the Gold Coast

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

8. Take a wine tour

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

9. Admire the Ningaloo Reef

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

10. Visit Western Australia

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

11. Tour Tasmania

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

12. Hike the Blue Mountains

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

13. Learn about pearling in Broome

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

14. Visit the Kimberley

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

15. Explore Kakadu National Park

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

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

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

Australia Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Australia Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

Australia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where To Stay in Australia

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

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

How to Get Around Australia

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

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

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

The two main bus companies in Australia are:

• Greyhound Australia

Greyhound also offers several bus passes. Their Whimit Passes range from 15-120 days of unlimited travel and are perfect for traveling around on a whim (hence the name). They come in 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120-day passes costing 349-729 AUD.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Australia

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Australia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 000 for assistance.

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

Australia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Australia Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 7 Best Hotels in Sydney

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

The 6 Best Hotels in Brisbane

The Best Walking Tours in Melbourne

The Best Walking Tours in Sydney

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

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• Where To Stay
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Australia Travel Guide

Last updated on June 24, 2023 by Shannon

Australia has been built for travel and tourism and is thus incredibly popular with travelers all over the world. The backpacker culture is particular well developed because Europeans and Israelis can easily get a year work visa.

Table of Contents

Fast Facts About Australia Travel

Australia is nearly as big as the continental US and has incredibly disparate landscapes; you can participate in nearly any type of adventure and fun activity: world-class diving, climbing, hiking, sky-diving, wine tastings, bush walks, camping and surfing are just a sampling of the sheer diversity in Oz. The culture is super-laid back, locals are friendly, and the backpacker community is warmly embracing of both newbies and old-hat travelers alike.

Vegetarian Friendly? Absolutely. No problem for vegetarians here, Australia even has a deep fried version of a veggie burger that I’ve never had anywhere else (breaded cheese and spinach). Fruit is plentiful and the hostel breakfasts offered throughout the country even have some great protein options to get the day off to a good start: toast with peanut butter or vegemite.  Eating out can get pricey so you’ll be cooking yourself a lot of meals at the well-stocked hostel kitchens anyway!

Internet Accessibility : Australia only gets three out of five because internet was expensive . Like, seriously pricey because of the Telstra monopoly. Many of the tour booking agencies will offer a bit of free internet if you’ve booked with them. McDonalds was also just starting to offer widespread free WIFI as I was leaving – this will be a life-saver since there are still small towns that had no internet access except the local libraries. Many hostels offer it, particularly on the major backpacker route between Cairns and Sydney, but other than that it can be unexpectedly tricky.

Transportation : This is a non-issue in Australia; anywhere you want to go, you can get there easily. The Greyhound bus is a great option. There is a bit of a train network as well in some areas. Also, a lot of backpackers rent vans and travel the country that way so you can frequently just catch a ride between cities if they’re heading in the same direction! It’s reasonably priced and simple – in addition to all of the public options the organized tour industry is incredibly prevalent and that’s a viable route too.

World Travel Planning Tips + Resources

From the best travel gear to how to pick travel insurance—a detailed list of resources, tips, and advice to help you plan an amazing trip.

Pre-Trip Reading Inspiration: Books About Australia

Check out my recommended books, music, and movies to inspire and learn about Australia—why not grab one and read it on the plane?!

Australia (FILM) : Runs toward the typical Hollywood fare, but well acted and again, will show some of the previous conflicts and politics that shaped modern Australia…old told with a romantic Hugh Jackman-y sub-plot and engaging story. .

Rabbit-Proof Fence Novel ( FILM ): Every traveler should see this moving film either before heading to Australia, or while your traveling through the country. The story centers on Australia’s Stolen Generation and the controversial aboriginal policies in the 1930s that took mixed-raced aboriginal children from their parents for “re-education.”

The Harp in the South by  Ruth Parks : An older book that gives a look at a growing and struggling Australia when the country was first being developed. Shows a side of Sydney, and Australia, that is only an echo now.

If you can’t read any of these travel book recommendations then read up on the  history of Australia online before you travel there.

Recommended Guidebook

Considered a backpacker’s bible by many, the Lonely Planet Australia is a beast of a book, but worth its weight in gold if you’re truly exploring the entire country. The transportation sections of the guidebook comes in handy the most on the road, giving you detailed options on how to cross the vast expanses of Australia!

Find more regional fiction and nonfiction  books and long-reads .

Best Things to Do in Australia

Boy is this a hard thing to pin down! There are so many things to do across the continent of Australia that there is no single online guide that is going to share everything you need to know. But, across my more than four months traveling in Australia (two months backpacking and two months “living” there with a friend), I’ve seen and done a whole lot that I am keen to share.

My 5 Favorite Travel Experiences in Australia

Diving with the Fishies on the Great Barrier Reef Fun Melbourne Day Trips Hiking the Giant Staircase in the Blue Mountains Outside of Sydney Holy Kangaroos Batman! First Days sightseeing in Sydney

Cairns is the center of the diving universe in Australia—this the Mecca for divers and snorkelers keen to explore the Great Barrier Reef . There are other cities where you can dive (Port Douglas most notably and the Whitsunday Islands too). The city is vibrant with activity and located in the far north of Queensland.

There is city is generally the end/beginning of the popular Cairns to Sydney backpacker route and with that title has a ton of activities, even though diving and snorkeling take the top honors and focus of tourism in this city. Most of the backpacker and travel activity is built up around the esplanade and huge lagoon swimming pool.

Things to Do in Cairns

• Diving: You have choices. Like, a lot of choices. I used Deep Sea Divers Den and loved them. I originally wanted to use Pro Dive Cairns but they were booked up way ahead of time; both would be a great option. If you’re a dive enthusiast then consider the live-aboard options, you go out further from the shore to slightly less busy spots on the reef. I did a three-day live-aboard—the best I could afford and I got in several amazing dives before they ferried me back to shore. The food is tasty and these dive companies are incredibly well organized—they have options for every budget and every combination of experiences. ** My Great Barrier Reef diving experience
• Rainforest Meets Reef: The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest in the world. Literally. It’s a UNESCO spot and so worth the multi-day excursion from Cairns. There are frogs, rare flowers, and the Mossman Gorge – all totally unique to anywhere else in Australia, and totally unique in the whole world, in fact.
• Rafting, Cultural Tours, Ballooning, etc: There are endless options in addition to diving – Oz is the land of packaged tours so it’s easiest to head to Peter Pan travel booking agency , tell them what you want and they’ll organize the companies and experiences.  I used them a lot and had good success and less stress. Plus they have free internet.

Where to Stay in Cairns

Northern Greenhouse : 117 Grafton Street, Cairns 4870. A great spot, totally walkable to the Esplanade and all of the popular bars and activities. All of the dive shops and tour agencies will pick you up from outside. They have internet, free breakfast, luggage storage and they pick you up from the airport. Fun organized activities (BBQ) but yet not a total party hostel, so you can get a good night’s sleep.

The Woolshed: 24 Shields St, Cairns QLD 4870. They have special fixed price backpacker meals early in the night, then crazy amounts of partying as the evening wears on. A really fun spot to meet other backpackers!

Restaurants

Hostel kitchen: Australia is expensive and most hostels have a kitchen (Northern Greenhouse has a HUGE one) so I cooked my own dinner and saved my dough to go out for beers later in the evenings.

Melbourne is the red-headed stepchild of the cities in Australia; while Sydney is very pretty and yuppy Melbourne has a much edgier and alternative vibe. It has a lot to offer as far as big cities go and is actually a favorite big-city travel spot from all of the cities I’ve visited around the world.

It’s easy to get around on the buses and trams to nearly any part of the city, so transportation, once you’re in Melbourne, is not an issue at all. The Internet can be a problem and expensive, so you have to stay at a hostel with wifi if you need it for work.

Things to Do in Melbourne

I did not rent a campervan or car so day trips were the best way to catch these sites around Melbourne!

• Philips Island : The worlds smallest penguins, fairy penguins, live on Phillip Island – they are incredibly cute and eco-friendly tours leave early in the morning from Melbourne and return in the evening. I loved Go West tours – the groups are of a reasonable size and they plan several activities throughout the day. This is a great tour for animal lovers since you also stop at an animal conversation center with emus, koalas, kangaroos, and more! ** My experience and travel tips for Phillips Island from Melbourne
• Great Ocean Road : Touted as the most scenic drive in Australia, it just might be true. It’s gorgeous. You’ll have a really long day if you take the tour, but the sites are pretty and if you’re a fan of nature and beaches then this is ideal. ** My experience and travel tips for the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne
• Explore the CBD with Coffee : The streets of Melbourne’s Central Business  District are vaguely reminiscent of Europe – they’re tiny and cramped but full of delightful boutiques, street food stalls, and coffee shops with tables spilling into the already thin walking path. It’s a really fun way to explore the city and rub shoulders with the locals, literally. ** My first days exploring Melbourne
• St. Kilda Street Market : This Sunday market on the Upper Esplanade has tons of arts and crafts, vendors, and food and it looks out over the beach. Worth visiting if you’re in town for a Sunday, but don’t extend your stay for it :)

Where to Stay

• Home at the Mansion : On my most recent trip through Melbourne in late 2016 I stayed here and loved it. There are some long-term backpackers living there, but it generally has a great vibe and you just can’t beat the location. They have privates that make for a budget-to-midrange option with convenience if you’re keen too. If you’re on a budget, or keen to see other areas, I stayed at  Melbourne Central YHA  my first time through the area and it’s a spotless hostel that is friendly and welcoming to all, including families. This hostel is quieter than some, which is normal for a YHA hostel, and it’s run more like structured boarding house institution than many nearby hostels.
• Base Backpackers St Kilda : Base Backpacker hostels are offered throughout Australia and Oceania. These hostels can range a bit more expensive, but Base has high standards and a lot of extra amenities. If you’re heading to St. Kilda, you can’t miss with this if you’re looking for a fun, engaged backpacker environment.
• Alto Hotel on Bourke is a gorgeous boutique spot in a very central spot if you want nice-to-midrange.

Melbourne is a huge city. It really depends on where you stay, but head to the CBD for the little cafes popping out into the streets.

St. Kilda also many great vegetarian eats. You’ll be totally covered.

Sydney was my absolute first stop of my round the world trip and I was still taking off my travel training wheels as I explored the city. It’s a pretty city with a huge backpacking community – this is a hub for backpackers with working visas who are trying to save up money to travel around Australia.

That means there is a lively nightlife and all of the hostels have long-term backpackers living right out of the rooms. The transportation is fantastic and can get you all over to anywhere a tourist might possibly want to visit.

Things to Do in Sydney

• Sightsee the Opera House and Harbor: This is a no-brainer because the iconic Sydney Opera House is the first stop for many travelers. I recommend that you walk through the Royal Botanical Gardens and to  Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, then curve along the water’s edge toward the Opera House – it’s a lovely walk and worth the time, plus this is where you get many of those iconic shots of the bridge and Opera House together. ** My first days exploring Sydney
• Hike in the Blue Mountains : My favorite Sydney activity and most important tip – go see the blue mountains that are just a two hour train ride outside of Sydney. The blue haze from the eucalyptus trees give the landscape an ethereal look. Katoomba is the most popular city and worth staying a couple of nights if you’re keen on hiking. ** My Blue Mountain hiking experience
• Toronga Zoo : Boats leave from Sydney’s Circular Quay and ferry over to the Toronga Zoo – this is hands-down the best setting for a zoo in the world, as you hike up the hills and visit the various areas you have unparalleled views of Sydney Harbor and the CBD. I used the zoo as a way to take visual note of the dozens of dangerously venomous spiders and snakes that inhabit Australia.

Where to Stay:

Blue Parrot Hostel : Located in Potts Point, this hostel is just outside of the sketchier area by a block or two, but still close to all of the backpacker action in Kings Cross. There were a lot of people living in the hostel (which makes the rooms stinky) but they had nice community areas and gave great tips and recs for the city.

Australia Travel Stories

My very first round the world trip way back in 2008 started in Sydney, Australia. My travel stories, however span that trip, as well as subsequent trips back to the country to explore areas that I missed the first time around. Each Australia travel story and update was shared in real-time as I travel blogged my way around Oz. Pick up the adventure wherever you fancy:

A Little Adventure… On a Mission to Pet Kangaroos in Bateman’s Bay!

A Little Story… (Mis)Adventures in Hiking the Giant Staircase in Katoomba

A Little Adjustment… Sightseeing Sydney Safely as a Solo Female Traveler

A Little Confusion… Adventures Hiking Wentworth Falls in Australia’s Blue Mountains

A Little Adventure… Eating Water at Surg Lessons in Byron Bay, Australia

A Little Friendship… Exploring Australia’s Lakes Entrance & Surviving the Storms

A Little Adventure… Driving the Sands and Beaches of Fraser Island

A Little Advice… On Spending Christmas Alone as a Solo Traveler

A Little Different… The Magic of Rainy Waterfalls on Uluru

A Little Adventure… Hiking the Rim of Kings Canyon in Australia

A Little Confession… Facing Fears of Traveling Solo in Southeast Asia

A Little Charm… Visiting the Kiama Blowhole, Australia

A Little Relaxing… Hitting My Groove & Sunning on the Beaches of Wollongong

A Little Hunkering… Hiding from the Biggest Storm of the Year

A Little Internet… Why is the Internet So God-Awful in Australia? (And How to Get Connected)

A Little Update… Prepping to Visit Uluru in the Australian Outback

A Little Adventure… Scuba Diving Australia’s Great Barrier Reef

A Little Exploring… How to Visit the Great Ocean Road & Phillip Island

A Little Travel Memory… Goodbye Ye Faithful Apostles

A Little Serenade… Six Songs for a Happy Birthday!

A Little Celebration… Happy New Years from Noosa Beach

A Little Adventure… Sailing Australia’s Whitsunday Islands for Christmas

A Little City… Exploring Trendy, Alternative, Melbourne

1 thought on “australia travel guide”.

Dear Shannon I really like this blog. I find that animals are very special in australia we don’t have those animals here in Chile. Animals like Spiders or serpientes surprised me . I also liked the food, it is quite special and varied , Chile didnt are so varied. I really liked that Australia is so big and that you can never know everything because it has many tourist places. Also that it has so much sea and so many beautiful beaches.I would love to visit this country because it has a very different culture from that of my country and I also love the landscape of Australia. I would like to meet different people. I like your blog. I thank you for the information.

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Coasting Australia

Family Travel in Australia

Our Top 50 Australian Family Travel Blogs

December 1, 2022 by Bryony @ Coasting Australia Leave a Comment

Since we made the decision to travel Australia full time while the kids are small, we’ve been amazed at the huge travelling family community that we have discovered.

It seems that more and more families are questioning ‘the norm’, and finding an alternative way to spend time together, escape the daily grind and have a break from too much technology.

We’ve been so inspired by the people who we have met along the way that we thought we would put a list together of families who you can follow to motivate you on your travels, give you information on doing the lap, and help convince you to take the leap if you haven’t already.

The list is in no particular order (there is no way I could pick a favourite!) we’ve included some basic info on the family plus links to where you can find them online and on social media.

If you’d like to be added to the list please fill in the contact form at the bottom.

See you on the road!

**This post contains affiliate links – meaning that if you make a purchase through any of the links we will make a commission – thanks for your support**

#1 – Coasting Australia

I thought I’d give us an intro first in case you are new to the site. We are a family of 4 – our boys are 7 and 8 years old, and our kelpie cross Bobby. We travelled Australia full time for 5 years and are now based in Tropical North Queensland where we still take every opportunity to find a new adventure! You can find us on Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , Pinterest and Twitter.

Lapping Australia Living the Dream!

#2 – Big Family Little Income

‘Raising a family on little more than laughs’ is their tagline – and the blog is bloody funny! Bruce the dad is behind the writing and Tracey is a professional photographer. We met them in Lightning Ridge as we were admiring Kenny – their beautiful bus.

Family:  Mum, dad and 7 kids! Yep 7. Rig:  Kenny the bus. Hit the road:  TBC Website:  http://www.bigfamilylittleincome.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BigFamilyLittleIncome Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/big.family.little.income/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCd00rGN-ms6ZCjM8moggPA Twitter: https://twitter.com/BIGFAMILYblog Pinterest:  No

#3 – Lost and Loving It

We haven’t met in real life yet but we follow this adventuring family closely – they travel here in Aus and overseas too – #travelgoals. They are also just about to launch a brand new website for all information and resources for the Arnhem Land.

Family: Noela, Joe, Rob (9 years) and Abby (6 years) Rig:  Various! Hit the road:  Jan 2017 Website:  http://www.lostandlovingit.com.au/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/lostandlovingit1 Instagram:  http://www.instagram.com/lostandlovingit1 YouTube:  https://bit.ly/2yJq7G0 Twitter: No Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com.au/lostandlovingit1/

#4 -Travelling Australia Livin’ the Dream

The King families motto is making memories is more important than making money – and this family are inspiring other families to go somewhere you’ve never been and see more of our awesome country. We are super excited to be helping the Kings build their new website as they are new students on our blogging course.

Family:  Shane, Sharron and their 3 kids Rig:  Isuzu Hit the road:  2017 Website:  Comning soon! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TravellingAustraliaLivingTheDream/ Instagram:  No YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#5 – A Big Peachey Adventure

The Peacheys are the fittest family we know! They inspire us to stay healthy on the road with their fitness on the road group on Facebook. They also have a travelling family podcast so head over and subscribe.

Family: Michael, Natalie, Chloe (7), Elliot (4), and Edward the newborn. Rig:  Jayco Expanda Hit the road:  Website:  http://abigpeacheyadventure.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/abigpeacheyadventure Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abigpeacheyadventure/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/michaelpeachey2000 Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#6 – My Rig Adventures

A family of four sharing their adventures and best travel hints and tips on their website and social media – on the road indefinitely just like us!

Family: Allan, Emma, Dominic & Indii Rig:  Nissan Patrol and Jayco Starcraft Hit the road:  August 2016 Website:  https://myrigadventures.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myrigadventures/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/myrig_adventures/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQoWqp6gTYeky14bG9m1cmQ Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#7 – LakeTouringAustralia

We were so proud to help Anthony set up his blog on our new blogging course to record his family adventures around Australia. Originally from VIC they have just set off on their big adventure – head over and follow them.

Family:  Anthony, Keera, Luke and Evan Rig:  Landcruiser 200 TTD V8 and Coromal 696 Hit the road:  August 2018 Website:  https://laketouringaustralia.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/627398477637291 Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/laketouringaustralia/ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#8 – Galways Go Round

A super inspiring family of 5 who have just completed a 30,000km lap of Australia.

Family:  Adam, Sharon, Ella (13), Ava (7), Noah (4) Rig:  Hit the road:  Caravanning since 2009 – this trip full time since June 2017 Website:  http://www.galwaysgoround.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/galwaysgoround Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/galwaysgoround/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCKul0QeuZz8gCz47UZzvxQ/featured Twitter: https://twitter.com/GalwaysGoRound Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com.au/galwaysgoround/

#9 – Five on a Drive

A family of five working and travelling their way around Australia – and writing some awesome destination and camping articles along the way!

Family:  Timo, Brooke, Sophie, Logan and Lela Rig:  Hit the road:  Website: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/fiveonadrive Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/fiveonadrive/ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#10 – Our Family Escape

A family of Aussie battlers inspiring others to get out there and travel – despite any obstacle.

Family:  Tim, Chenoa, their 10 year old daughter and Tim’s service dog Jorja. Rig:  Mazda BT50 and Nova Family Escape Van Hit the road:  Sep 2018 Website:  No Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/ourfamilyescape Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/our_family_escape/ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#11 – Trip in a Van

The Lorrimers have been on the road since December 2015 living the dream around Australia, sharing their adventures and travel tips.

Family:  Bec, Justin, Jack(5), Billy (4) and Charli (2) Rig:  Mazda BT50 and Jurgens Caravan Hit the road:  Dec 2015 Website:  https://www.tripinavan.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tripinavan Instagram:  http://instagram.com/tripinavan YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/c/TripInAVan Twitter:  No Pinterest:  No

#12 – The Blonde Nomads

A family of four sharing their passion for life and Aussie adventures on the road. They’re advocates of slow travel just like us.

Family:  Rob, Tracy, Marli (5) and Ziggy (2) Rig:  Jayco Starcraft OB Hit the road:  Nov 17 Website:  https://www.theblondenomads.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theblondenomads/ Instagram:  http://instagram.com/theblondenomads YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAaOUno6y7zD0ilVjFRHXw?view_as=subscriber Twitter: https://twitter.com/theblondenomads Pinterest:  http://pinterest.com/theblondenomads

#13 – A Lazy Lap of Oz

I am super excited to be helping Amy and her family get their blog ready for their awesome trip on our Aussie family travel blogging course – follow them on Facebook to see their 4wd, free-camping, caravanning and homeschooling journey starting soon!

Family:  Amy, Dean and their 2 kids Rig:  TBC Hit the road:  Early 2019 Website:  Coming soon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LazyLapofOz/ Instagram:  No YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#14 – Our Lap of a Lifetime

A family of four working and adventuring their way around Australia.

Family:  Doug, Skye & 2 kids Rig:  Jayco Caravan Hit the road:  July 2018 Website:  https://www.ourlapofalifetime.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/ourlapofalifetime Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ourlapofalifetime/ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#15 – Five in a Van with No Plan

A family of 5 adventuring, home-schooling and working their way around Australia

Family:  Mum, dad and 3 girls Rig:  4×4 Canter & Elite Hume Hit the road:  Apr 2017 Website:  No Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/5inavanwithnoplan/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/5_in_a_van_with_no_plan YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#16 – Curious Campers

As a family of four, Nat & Steve did a lap around Australia for seven months in a camper trailer. With the kids grown up they are off having new adventures, exploring new locations and re-visiting their favourite places without the kids in tow. The kids still love camping and join us from time to time with their 4WD and swags! Curious Campers have also released a FREE travel e-magazine packed with stories and adventures from all over Australia.

Family: Steve & Natalie plus the occasional trip with the 18 & 20 year old! Rig:  Mitsubishi Pajero & Regent Cruiser Van Hit the road:  Travelling since 2008, while still working normal jobs Website:  https://curiouscampers.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Curious-Campers-394027034392302 Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/curiouscampersaustralia/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-ar9SyGg4CJ9QOAcum9_PQ/featured Twitter: No Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com.au/curiouscampers/

#17 – Trekking Downunder

The ‘Mad Murphys’ are a family of 5 trekking the country and looking for fun! They are also about to release a free online travel magazine to help you make your travel dreams a reality!

Family:  Ryan, Amy, Jake, Lucas and Wade Rig:  Prado & Caravan Hit the road:  March 2018 Website:  https://www.trekkingdownunder.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Trekkingdownunder Instagram:  https://instagram.com/trekkingdownunder YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9-1FVyxdBnCHJ1bz9CQozg Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#18 – Barravanning Oz

The Barrengers are just setting off on their adventures – head over and give them a follow

Family:  Pete, Kym, Zach (7) and Lucy (3) Rig:  Toyota Landcruiser Hit the road:  Aug 2018 Website:  No Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BarravanningOz Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/barravanning_oz/ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#19 – Cruising in our Caravan

A family of four also travelling with their adorable cats Bazza and Muffin! Currently on the East Coast – taking it slow and working as they go.   We are also loving helping them on their blogging journey on our course.

Family:  Mum, dad, Ashton (4) and Harrison (1) Rig:  Newage gecko towed by Landcruiser. Hit the road:  Aug 2018 Website:  https://thebiglapwithbaby.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cruising-in-our-Caravan-1970840066560055/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cruising_in_our_caravan/ YouTube:  TBC Twitter: TBC Pinterest:  TBC

#20 – Wander to Wonder Oz

A family of four home-schooling and stand up paddle boarding their way around Australia!

Family:  Leigh, Tegan, daughter Bodhi (6yrs) and son Finn (4yrs) Rig:  Isuzu MU-X towing a Bailey Rangefinder Gemini Hit the road:  Jan 2017 Website:  https://www.wandertowonderoz.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WanderToWonderOz/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/wandertowonderoz/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvuhmHE2hv5mPq6peQNtimg Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#21 – The ToDoing Family

An ordinary family with a big todo list!

Family:  Steph, Justin and their 3 boys Rig:  TBC Hit the road:  Lap of Australia 2019 Website:   http://www.todoingfamily.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todoingfamily Instagram:  http://instagram.com/todoingfamily YouTube:  www.youtube.com/c/todoingfamily Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/todoingfamily Pinterest: 

#22 – Nourished Wanderings

A family of four inspiring others to hit the road and enjoy childhood and parenthood to the full!

Family:  The Clarke family – mum, dad and 2 kids Rig:  TBC Hit the road:  Feb 2018 Website:  TBC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nourishedwanderings Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/nourishedwanderings/ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#23 – Our Family Wanderbus

Another Coaster loving family – currently decking out their bus ready for a lap of Australia!

Family:  Mum, dad and 2 kids Rig:  Toyota Coaster Bus – yay! Hit the road:  Still planning… Website:  No Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ourfamilywanderbus/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ourfamilywanderbus YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#24 – The Great Escape Australia

A family of three travelling and nursing their way around Australia.

Family:  Renee, Nathan and Ryan (4) Rig:  Pajero & Cub Camper Hit the road:  Jan 2016 Website:  https://www.thegreatescapeaustralia.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegreatescapeaustralia Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thegreatescapeaustralia/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCBiPWq9i_GPxg8wGCqPXqg Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#25 – Travelling Lyfe

A family of 5 travelling in a 1960s converted caravan and sharing the inspiration!

Family:  TBC Rig:  TBC Hit the road:  TBC Website:  http://www.travellinglyfe.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travellinglyfe/ Instagram:  TBC YouTube:  TBC Twitter: TBC Pinterest:  TBC

#26 – Max and Ivy

I LOVE this website for travel ideas, itineraries and things to do around Australia.

Family:  Lily, Geoff and 2 pre-schoolers Rig: VW Campervan Hit the road:  TBC Website:  http://www.maxandivy.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maxandivy/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/maxandivyontheroad/ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com.au/maxandivyontheroad

#27 – Tribe on the Road

Leaving late 2018 and sharing adventures, photos and recipes

Family:  Sam, Katy, Milly (4) and Zoe (2) Rig:  TBC Hit the road:  Late 2018 Website:  https://tribeontheroad.wordpress.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tribeontheroad/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/p/BkbJwp7lgvK/ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com.au/miss_sinn333/tribe-on-the-road

#28 – Tour de Oz

Currently on lap number two with an extra kid!

Family:  Mum, dad and 3 kids Rig:  Caravan Hit the road:  First lap 2013 – second lap 2018 Website:  No Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tourdeozz/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/tour_de_oz/ YouTube: No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#29 – Wanderin Straya

Single parenting on the go! Sharing adventures and inspiring others.

Family:  Mum and 2 kids Rig:  TBC Hit the road:  TBC Website:  No Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderinstraya/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/wanderin_straya/ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#30 – Zahli’s Big Lap

The Zahlis sold up and are now on the lookout for their next big adVANture!

Family:  Michael, Ebony, Maddyn (3) and Emery (17months) Rig:  Mitsubishi Pajero and Jayco Expanda Hit the road:  Jan 2018 Website:  https://www.zahlisbiglap.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zahlisbiglap/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/zahlisbiglap/ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#31 – Little Van Crew

This awesome travelling family came up with the idea of a travelling families book exchange – buy one of their stickers , pop it on your van and other families know that they can come over and swap books/games/dvds!

Family:  Mum, dad, Blakely and Hudson Rig:  TBC Hit the road:  June 2018 Website:  No Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/littlevancrew/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/littlevancrew_ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#32 -Ten Itchy Feet

The Allan family are from Newcastle in NSW and Rhys and Lyndall met while they were backpacking – just like us!

Family: Rhys, Lyndall, Carter 8, Heath 7 and Chelsea 4 Rig:  Various! Hit the road:  Jul 2017 Website:  No Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tenitchyfeet Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ten_itchy_feet/ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#33 – Camper Trailer Around Australia

A family of three enjoying a lot of laughs around Australia

Family:  Johnnie, Bernie and Charlie Rig:  Camper Trailer Hit the road:  Nov 2017 Website:  No Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/johnnieboy7 Instagram:  No YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

#34 – The Wild Tribe

Adventure awaits for this family of 5

Family:  Steve, Amy, Ed, Bodhi, Kai Rig:  TBC Hit the road:   TBC Website:   No Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/tribeinthewild/ Instagram:   No YouTube:   No Twitter:   No Pinterest:   No

#35 – Let’s Go That Way

The Bachelor family exploring, adventuring and discovering Australia

Family:  Claire, Tom, Varli and Halen Rig:   TBC Hit the road:   TBC Website:   http://letsgothatway.com.au/ Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/letsgothatwayupdates/ Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/lets.go.that.way/ YouTube:   No Twitter:   No Pinterest:   No

#36 – TBVC

Family:  Rig:  Hit the road:   Website:   Facebook:   Instagram:   YouTube:   Twitter:   Pinterest:   No

#37 – West Aussie Nomads

This family from Perth have explored Europe, UK, South Africa, North Africa, South America, Asia and some parts of USA and are now hitting their own back yard. Follow them below.

Family:  Jason, Denise and daughter Rig:   Triton and Jayco Expanda Hit the road:   March 2017 Website:   No Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/westaussienomads/ Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/west_aussie_nomads/ YouTube:   No Twitter:   No Pinterest:   No

#38 – Cramped in a Van

A family of four planning a lap in 2019 and sharing their progress along the way

Family:  Danni, Luke, Abbey and Lewis Rig:   TBC Hit the road:   2019 Website:   https://crampedinavan.blogspot.com/2018/03/planning-our-trip.html?m=1 Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/Cramped-in-a-van-156934578334496/ Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/crampedinavan/ YouTube:   No Twitter:   No Pinterest:   No

#39 – TBC

Family:  TBC Rig:   TBC Hit the road:   Website:   TBC Facebook:   TBC Instagram:   YouTube:   TBC Twitter:   TBC Pinterest:   TBC

#40 – Lapping Oz

It’s great to see other Aussie families travelling with their dog too!

Family:  Mia, Adam, Jett and Skye Rig:   Volkswagen Amarok and Coromal caravan Hit the road:   Dec 2017 Website:   http://www.lappingoz.com.au/ Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/lappingoz/ Instagram:   http://www.instagram.com/lappingoz_ YouTube:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL8HA0WP-Ky_h5l0qbdukoA/featured Twitter:   No Pinterest:   No

#41 – Four Hands in a Tin Can

A family of four lapping since 2016

Family:  Pete, Annie, Liam & Mia Rig:  Caravan Hit the road:   2016 Website:   http://fourhandsinatincan.net/ Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/fourhandsinatincan/ Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/fourhandsinatincan/ YouTube:  No Twitter:  No Pinterest:   No

#42 – Livan for Now

Amazing family adventures around Australia

Family:  Corey, Ally, Mackayla (14), Chloe (13), Cody (10), Ava (8) Rig:  TBC Hit the road:   2017 Website:   No Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/livanfornow/ Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/livanfornow/ YouTube:   No Twitter:   No Pinterest:   No

#43 – Life is a Road Trip

A family of five home-schooling and adventuring around Australia.

Family:  Stef, Ben, Mimi, Jake and Rosie Rig:  Jayco Starcraft Pop-top Hit the road:   Nov 2017 Website:   No Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/LifeIsARoadTrip/ Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/lifeisaroadtrip/ YouTube:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gquUkjah17L0lTMX3lvag Twitter:   No Pinterest:  No

#44 – Cake and Eat it 3

A family who travel full time who believe the world is a classroom. They are currently travelling overseas but back in Australia soon.

Family:  Brett, Leanne and Miss B Rig:  TBC Hit the road:   TBC Website:   http://cakeandeatit3.com/ Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/cakeandeatit3/ Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/cakeandeatit3/ YouTube:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfRxK23n5xvYZL6pYyXdr6A Twitter:   No Pinterest:   https://www.pinterest.com.au/cakeandeatit3/

#45 – On the Roam Again

The Russels are zig-zagging their way around Oz with 4 kids in a camper trailer!

Family:  Ryan and Cassie, Nicola 12, Jamie 10, Holly 7 & Violet 3 Rig:  Trak Shak, soft floor camper trailer Hit the road:   2017 Website:   No Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/OnTheRoamAgainTripStraya/ Instagram:   No YouTube:   No Twitter:   No Pinterest:   No

#46 – Cam and Jaidan’s Excellent Adventure

A single dad and his son living the dream and un-schooling along the way.

Family:  Cam and Jaiden (9) Rig:  Caravan Hit the road:   TBC Website:   No Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/gonecaravaning/ Instagram:   No YouTube:   No Twitter:   No Pinterest:   No

#47 – Breals on Wheels

Travelling clockwise from Dunsborough WA – this family have 12 months to explore and adventure.

Family:  Jeff, Jodie, Sky and Bella Rig:  Toyota Landcruiser  with a Aura Caravan Hit the road:   2018 Website:   No Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/brealsonwheels2018/ Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/brealsonwheels2018/ YouTube:   No Twitter:   No Pinterest:   No

#48 – Mac’s Tracks

A family of four exploring on and off the beaten track.

Family:  Marta, Brett, Ella (6), Mia (4) Rig:  2014 Toyota Prado, and off-road Cub Escape camper trailer Hit the road:   2017 Website:   No Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/macstrackstravel/ Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/macs_tracks/ YouTube:   No Twitter:   No Pinterest:   No

Like it? Pin it!

#49 – MILSY Pezwardo

Another dog loving travelling family! I also love meeting another writer with as much of a love of exclamation marks as I have – follow their page for lots of laughs!

Family:  Milly, Andrew, Ruby (8), Rosie (6) and Zac (6) and their dog Pippy Rig:  99 model Troopy & 98 model 16ft Windsor Offroad caravan Hit the road:   July 2017 Website:   http://milsypezwardo.wordpress.com/ Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/MILSYpezwardo/ Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/milsypezwardo/ YouTube:   No Twitter:   No Pinterest:   No

#50 – The Wandering Jocks

As well as having a great Facebook page to share their adventures, this family have also started an awesome Facebook group to help families travelling Australia to find work on their trip .

Family:  Jay and Lil, Hamish 5, Matilda 3 and Maeryn 18months and Boo, the 8yo Ridge-back cross Rig:  Camper Trailer Hit the road:  2015 Website:  http://thewanderingjocks.blogspot.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWanderingJocks/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thewanderingjocks/ YouTube:  No Twitter: No Pinterest:  No

The Mumma of all Australian Family Travel Blogs

Last but not least we can’t have a list of the best travelling families in Australia without mentioning Mandi from the Travelling Australia with Kids website,   Facebook page , and Facebook group . The original ‘Mumma’ of Aussie family big lappers – Mandi is now dedicated to make the dream happen for others and to save families money all over Australia with the amazing TAWK scheme where kids stay free at member parks .

Hopefully you can find some great families on the list to follow you and inspire your travels – if you would like to be included on the list please fill in the form at the bottom of this post and we’ll be in touch.

For book lovers we’ve put together a list of our favourite children’s books for travelling Australia to get the kids excited about your big adventure.

If you’ve been inspired to start your own Australian family travel blog, or maybe you have a Facebook page and want to take it to the next level and have your own website – then let us help you start with our personalised and interactive course. How to Start a Family Travel Blog will guide you through all the steps you need to get started – from choosing the perfect site name to all the technical stuff like registering your domain, finding the best hosting and designing your site. I also guide you through all the social media channels that you can sign up to and how to get the most out of them, as well as giving you insights on how to start making money from your blog. Over the last 2 years we have also been invited to review thousands of dollars worth of tours and attractions – we let you in on how we made it happen and the best way to approach and work with brands. We have also created a private Facebook group just for course students – where there are extra resources and training sessions and I am regularly on hand to answer questions. We also offer any trips, tours or experiences that we are unable to attend to the students in our group too – over the last couple of months we’ve given away tickets to attractions in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra.

If you’d like more info on the course, or to see the full curriculum or to sign up – you can learn more here .

Next week we’ll be sharing our list of our favourite websites and Facebook pages that help travelling families in Australia – if you don’t want to miss out you can sign up for our newsletter here and receive our monthly round up of posts right to your inbox.

Fill in the form below to submit your own or any of your favourite Australian family travel blogs.

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The PERFECT 1, 2 or 3 Week Australia Itinerary [2024]

• Last Updated: January 30, 2024

Whether you have 1, 2, or 3 weeks in Australia, here are some suggestions for an Australia itinerary that will help you make the most of this huge, diverse, and stunning country!

Planning a trip to Australia can be quite difficult, simply because the country is so huge. 

Lots of its best attractions, cities, and natural landmarks are very spread out, so it’s impossible to see everything in a short amount of time. 

Australia is also an expensive country to visit, so most backpackers and average travellers won’t be able to visit every single point of interest without spending a lot. 

Despite these challenges, planning an epic trip to Australia is definitely possible. 

You just have to be smart about your Australia itinerary, sticking to one or two major areas and picking travel routes that are logical. 

For example, you won’t be able to fit Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, Melbourne, Uluru, Tasmania, and beaches and national parks of Western Australia and the Northern Territory into a 1 week Australia itinerary. 

To see all those incredible places, you’d need at least one month, and even then you’d be rushing to get everywhere. 

What you can do, is pick the areas that appeal to you the most and plan your trip accordingly. 

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive guide with everything you need to know about travelling in Australia !

So you’d be better off picking either the east coast or the west coast and hanging around there if you only have 1 or 2 weeks in Australia. 

In this article, I’ll provide a few sample Australia travel itineraries. 

Each Australia itinerary will include a few of the country’s best places to visit, while maintaining reasonable travel times.

Whether it’s your first trip to Australia or you’ve been here for a while, there is always something incredible to see!

Table of Contents

How to Get Around Australia

Days 1-2: sydney, days 3-5: brisbane , days 6-7: airlie beach and the whitsundays, days 1-3: sydney, days 3-6: melbourne , day 7-8: the great ocean road, day 9-10: adelaide, day 11: kangaroo island, day 12-14: perth, days 3-4: byron bay, days 5-6: the gold coast, days 7-8: cairns, days 9-10: port douglas and the great barrier reef, days 11-13: cape tribulation and the daintree rainforest, day 14: darwin, days 15-17: kakadu national park, days 18-20: uluru and the red centre, the ultimate australia itinerary travel guide.

Having travelled all around the country, we’re excited to share these epic 1, 2 and 3 week Australian itineraries that’ll cover the best places around.

But first, a tip…

It’s also important to consider how you’ll get around Australia during your visit. 

As I mentioned, the country is huge and public transport like buses or trains is expensive. 

If you’re staying in one area, it’s worth renting a car for a few days so you can explore and do day trips, but driving from one city to the next may take 12+ hours of driving. 

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Catching cheap domestic flights is the best way to jump from one state to the next, and you can take public transport or drive within smaller areas. 

Though every traveller will have their own unique preferences and modify these itineraries as necessary, here are some sample Australia itineraries that will hopefully help you plan your dream trip!

7 Day Australia Itinerary

One week in Australia goes by quickly, but some people can’t afford to take much longer off of work or their other responsibilities. 

You can still manage to experience some of the Aussie culture and natural beauty in one week. 

In this 7 day Australia itinerary, you’ll be sticking to the middle east coast. 

You’ll begin in Sydney, then head up to Queensland to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef. 

This plan is perfect for 7 days in Australia because it doesn’t require huge amounts of travel time. 

READ NEXT: 25 Amazing Things to Do in Australia

After arriving in  Sydney  and getting settled, you have two days to enjoy the city. 

You can spend one day visiting all the popular tourist attractions, like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Tower Eye, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and maybe some of the museums. 

Another day can be spent swimming and sunbathing on one of the city’s main beaches. 

The northern beaches around Manly, or the western beaches around Bondi and Bronte are great options for a fun day in Sydney.

Bondi Beach has a very strong health and fitness scene, so they have lots of incredible healthy cafes where all the locals like to fuel up. 

Visit  Berri Bar Bondi Beach  for a refreshing Acai bowl,  Porch and Parlour  for a healthy breakfast on homemade bread, or  Umu  for some nourishing organic lunch bowls. 

After 2 days in Sydney, you can catch a quick, 1-hour flight up to Brisbane. 

Check out this post on how to spend one day in Sydney if that’s all the time you have.

Brisbane is another incredible city to visit in Australia. 

After 2 days in Sydney, however, you may be sick of the crowded city streets. 

Luckily, Brisbane makes a great gateway for exploring more peaceful areas of Queensland. 

There are tons of amazing day trips from Brisbane that allow you to explore nature and see more of Australia, including:

• Burleigh Heads:  a charming coastal town with a massive beach and national park
• Hervey Bay:  one of the best spots in Australia for whale-watching
• Lamington National Park:  full of hiking trails and waterfalls
• Stradbroke Island:  a beautiful location that’s great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and trying other water sports
• Fraser Island:  the world’s largest sand island

After exploring Brisbane and the surrounding areas, catch another cheap domestic flight from the city up to Airlie Beach. 

Read our list of the best things to do in Brisbane for more inspiration!

Airlie Beach is known as one of Australia’s most stunning beaches, complete with soft white sand and clear turquoise water. 

From here, you can soak in the postcard-worthy views in the Whitsundays Islands and do a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef and the famous Whitehaven Beach. 

Book an  ocean rafting day tour  that include all your snorkelling gear and takes you to Whitehaven Beach and the best locations in the Whitsundays.

BONUS –  Booking ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on the tour, and get the best price too! And just for NOMADasaurus readers, if you use the Klook discount code  “NOMADS10”  on the website when checking out, you’ll get $10 off your first booking!

Snorkelling, scuba diving, and sailing through the Great Barrier Reef will make an unforgettable ending to your 7 day Australia itinerary.

At the end of your week in Australia, you can fly from Airlie Beach back to Sydney for your departing flight. 

2 Week Australia Itinerary

Two weeks in Australia allows you a bit more time to see different areas of the country. 

This two week Australia itinerary will start in Sydney, move down to Victoria to explore Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road , and will then curve up to Adelaide in South Australia and end in Perth in Western Australia. 

So with two weeks in Australia, you can still manage to visit 4 states! If you’d prefer to spend more time in one place rather than jumping around so much, you can always modify this. 

For example, you could skip Perth and spend a few more days exploring New South Wales, Victoria, or South Australia. 

But here is a sample two weeks in Australia itinerary. 

Once again, you’ll fly into Sydney and begin your Australian adventure in the capital city of New South Wales. 

In addition to all the touristy stuff like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House and touring a local art gallery, you could spend one of your days in the lush nature surrounding the city. 

Two perfect day trips from Sydney are:

The Blue Mountains:  Full of waterfalls, scenic lookouts and hiking trails, connected to Sydney by train so you don’t even need a car. Here’s what you should do there .

The Royal National Park:  Dramatic coastal scenery with rugged cliffs and secluded beaches. Check out these awesome Royal National Park walks .

After 3 days in Sydney, hop on a plane for a 1-hour flight down to Melbourne.

As one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities in Australia,  Melbourne  is a favourite among travellers and locals alike. 

Spend your days in Melbourne visiting street markets, sipping cocktails from rooftop bars, checking out all the cool cafes and restaurants, and experiencing the wild nightlife. 

You can also visit St. Kilda Beach in the south of Melbourne, or head to Brighton Beach to photograph the colourful Brighton Bathing Boxes.

Or take a day trip to Phillip Island or tour the Melbourne Cricket Ground .

After you visit Melbourne, continue on to the famous Great Ocean Road.

One of the highlights of Victoria is the natural wonders of the Great Ocean Road. 

This coastal road runs for 243 kilometers in total and is full of Australian wildlife, quaint little towns, surfing spots, picturesque viewpoints, campgrounds, and overall gorgeous scenery.  

Be sure to see the Twelve Apostles, Split Point Lighthouse, Port Campbell National Park, Apollo Bay, Loch Ard Gorge, and other stunning landscapes along the way.

You can either rent a car from Melbourne and drive the road on your own, or  book a day tour . 

It only takes one day to see all the best spots along the road, but you’ll need to save some time to make your way back to Melbourne and you don’t want to rush. 

You can also stop by the Australian National Surfing Museum in Torquay at the start of the Great Ocean Road.

Fly from Melbourne to Adelaide. 

Spend the next days of your two weeks in Australia itinerary soaking in the culture of  Adelaide . 

Enjoy the delicious food, the museums and galleries, and the laid-back charm of South Australia’s capital. 

One of your 2 days in Adelaide should definitely be spent touring a vineyard and wine tasting in the Barossa Valley. 

Again, you can either rent a car in the city and drive yourself around the vineyards (make sure you don’t drink too much!), or you can book a day trip. 

As one of the most unique places in South Australia, Kangaroo Island makes a super fun day trip from Adelaide. 

Take photos of the interesting rock formations in Flinders Chase National Park , stroll along the pristine golden beaches, or search for some local animals like wallabies, koalas, and of course, kangaroos. 

Head back to Adelaide after Kangaroo Island and hop on another quick flight to Perth to finish up this two week Australia trip.

Read next: 8 Amazing Things to Do in Kangaroo Island, Australia

Your last few days of visiting Australia will be well-spent in Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. 

Enjoy the beaches, explore the Fremantle Markets, visit wineries and wildlife parks, and more.

You could also treat yourself to one last epic adventure in Australia by taking a day trip to Rottnest Island . 

This island is full of fun activities, natural wonders, beautiful views, and cute little quokkas, which are small, native Australian marsupials similar to wallabies. 

After a few days in Perth, either catch your departing flight from here or fly back to Sydney if your flight leaves from there. 

You could also consider a day trip to Margaret River , one of the top wine and surfing regions in Western Australia.

It’s a 3 hour drive from Perth to Margaret River, so only make the trek if you feel like you have time.

3 Week Australia Itinerary

3 weeks in Australia allows you to visit some big cities and tourist spots, but it also allows you to venture out to more remote and isolated areas. 

In this 3 week Australia Itinerary, you’ll visit Sydney and Byron Bay at the start. 

Then you’ll head up to The Gold Coast, and tropical north Queensland to the Daintree Rainforest. 

Continue your journey up north by travelling to Darwin and Kakadu National Park, and then venture inland to Uluru (Ayer’s Rock). 

Again, spend your first couple days in Australia checking out Sydney and maybe doing a day trip to the Blue Mountains of the Hunter Valley Wine Region.

Be sure to visit Sydney Harbour, Darling Harbour, and the famous Bondi Beach during your time in Australia’s largest city.

Then fly to Ballina, a small airport 30 minutes away from Byron Bay. 

Check out our Sydney to Brisbane road trip guide if you’d prefer to rent a car and drive up the east coast.

Byron Bay  is a hub for backpackers, and it is a very fun place to experience when you visit Australia. 

From bar crawls and drum circles on the beach, to night markets and street art, to coastal walks and lovely beaches, a couple days in Byron Bay will feel like bliss. 

Even if you aren’t on a strict backpacker budget, Byron Bay has so many great hostels that it’s worth immersing yourself in the backpacker scene. 

Some of the best hostels in Byron Bay include Wake Up! Byron Bay and Byron Bay Beach hostel. 

Both of these have hundreds of great reviews from travellers cost around $30 per night, which is pretty cheap for Australia. 

If you want to meet other cool people and take part in all the fun social activities of Byron Bay, you may want to stay in one of these fun hostels instead of a hotel!

You can choose to hang out in Byron Bay for a few more days, or catch a flight from Ballina to the Gold Coast for a taste of the Sunshine Coast surf vibes. 

The  Gold Coast  is one of the best places to learn how surfing when you visit Australia. 

You can take a surf lesson from an experienced local and ride the waves, or just relax on the beach, eat some great food, and hit the bars and nightclubs in the evening. 

The Gold Coast combines the excitement of the city with the salty air and water sports of a beachside town, so it’s a diverse and fun place to visit. 

Fly from the Gold Coast up to Cairns. 

The next few days of your 3 week Australia Itinerary will take you up along the coast of Tropical North Queensland. 

This corner of Australia is hot, humid, and jam-packed with rich jungles, Aboriginal culture, waterfalls and the marine life of the Great Barrier Reef. 

Keep in mind that during the rainy season, from October to April, you can’t swim in the ocean here because there may be crocodiles and jellyfish. 

Cairns  is the gateway to tropical north Queensland. 

The real beauty lies outside the city, but spend a couple days adjusting to the heat, partying with the many backpackers, shopping at Rusty’s Fruit Market, and swimming in the big public swimming pool called the Lagoon. 

Also check out Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park and the nearby Barron Gorge National Park near Kuranda.

Then you’ll take the local bus up to Port Douglas. You can buy your bus ticket from any tourism agency or from the main bus station, and take the Cairns to Cooktown route. 

Only about an hour north of Cairns is Port Douglas, a small, relaxed town with one backpacker hostel, a few amazing restaurants, and a nice park lined with palm trees for viewing the sunset. 

This is one of the best places to book a Great Barrier Reef  snorkelling or diving tour  because up here, the reef isn’t as crowded as near Cairns. A snorkelling reef trip is one of the most popular Australia tours and shouldn’t be missed!

So spend one of your days in Port Douglas swimming in the crisp, blue waters of the reef and seeing some incredible, colourful marine life. 

From here, get back on Cairns to Cooktown bus and continue north up to Cape Tribulation in the Daintree Rainforest. 

Located in the midst of the jungle, Cape Tribulation is the perfect place to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. 

There is only one main road running through the town, if you can even call it a town. 

Cape Tribulation has a few resorts and hostels, a couple tourism companies and about two shops, and that’s it. 

But the powerful presence of the rainforest is more than enough to entertain you for a couple days.

The Daintree is the oldest rainforest in the world, and is one of the true natural wonders of Australia.

Go hiking, ride horses on the beach, book an ATV sightseeing tour, do an exotic fruit tasting at Cape Trib Farm, visit the Daintree Discovery Center, or take a boat cruise on the Daintree River to spot some crocodiles. 

Try to avoid visiting Tropical North Queensland in December through February, however. This is the wet season and many roads may be flooded and tours will be closed.

On your third day, take the bus back to Cairns then fly to Darwin. 

Darwin is the capital city of the Northern Territory, and it is a convenient starting point for a trip into Central Australia and Ayers Rock, in the south of the state.

Use this day to walk around and sightsee a bit, relax and unwind, and plan your journey into Kakadu National Park. 

Check out our guide for the best things to do in Darwin!

Rent a car in Darwin and spend the next couple days exploring the largest national park in Australia!

You can swim in waterfalls, find ancient Aboriginal rock art, and go hiking through some incredible landscapes. 

If you have a van or a tent, you can camp at one of the park’s campgrounds. Otherwise there is a handful of resorts where you can stay overnight in Kakadu. 

Most of the accommodation in Kakadu is located in Jabiru, the main town of the park. 

You could also  book a guided tour  to Kakadu as a day trip from Darwin. This is a good option for those who want to take a break from planning and driving. A tour will take you right to the best spots in the park, which is handy because the park is so huge.

After exploring the national park, drive back to Darwin and then fly to Alice Springs at the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. 

(Alternatively if you don’t want to keep travelling so much, you could stay in the Northern Territory and explore more natural wonders like Nitmiluk National Park.)

From Alice Springs in the center of the Northern Territory, it’s time to begin your journey to Uluru!

The Red Centre is the central desert area of Australia, consisting of Alice Springs and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park.

Uluru, or Ayers Rock, is a sacred monolith and it one of the most famous places to see on a trip to Australia.

You have two options for getting to Uluru. 

Option 1:  Rent a car in Alice Springs and complete the 5-hour drive on your own. Keep in mind it’s also 5 hours to get back, so that’s a 10 hour road trip in total. You should also have your own camping gear and pack enough food and water for the road trip.

Option 2:  Book a tour from Alice Springs if you are tired of driving. You can  choose a straightforward day trip . It’s a bit pricier to do a guided tour, but it takes away a lot of the effort on your part. 

Either way, watching the sunrise and sunset bathe Uluru in soft, natural hues is a sight you’ll never forget, so the journey is worth it. 

If you are renting a car and doing your own road trip, consider also heading out to Watarrka National Park and Kings Canyon. This amazing spot is a 3 hour drive from Ayers Rock, which is a short drive for the Outback!

READ MORE: Check out all the incredible things to do in Uluru !

Your final day of the 3 week Australia itinerary will mostly be spent travelling. 

Drive back to Alice Springs, then fly back to Sydney for your flight home.

I just want to add that there are many other natural wonders that I didn’t get to mention!

Australia is massive so it’s hard to fit in so many cool places in a short time.

For example, the north of Western Australia is stunning, but it’s very remote and not convenient to add to a few weeks in Australia.

Few Australians even make it out here on holiday.

But riding a camel on Cable Beach , snorkelling with Whale Sharks in Exmouth , or camping in Cape Range National Park are amazing experiences that you can have if you have the time to venture out there.

Tasmania is also one of the most gorgeous places in Australia. The island is home to some of the best hiking and camping in the country , but it requires lots of prior planning and preparation and gear.

You could also road trip around Australia, taking more time to see all the attractions and not having to rush.

But it would take you months or even years to road trip all of Australia!

Regardless of how much time you spend here, don’t stress about seeing everything!

It’s impossible to see everything, and no matter where you go, you’re sure to have an epic time.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Have you got any info/tips about Central Australia? Adelaide, Coober Pedy, Alice Springs to Darwin (Stuart Hwy).

Would like more information on all inclusive 3 wk itinerary for family of about 12.

All the best with your research. Have a great trip.

Terrific article. Thanks so much for the insight!

Thank you so much. Glad the article was helpful 🙂

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Australia travel blog — the fullest australia travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers.

Australia is always on the list of the most attractive destinations in the world. Besides buying tours to visit Australia, you can also choose to travel solo to have more interesting experiences. If you are visiting this land of Kangaroo for the first time, don’t forget to check out the super detailed self-sufficient Australia travel guide below! So, what to do and how to plan a budget perfect trip to Australia for the first-time? Let’s check out our Australia travel blog (Australia blog) with the fullest Australia travel guide (Australia guide, Australia tourist guide, Australia visitor guide) from how to get, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

Australia travel itinerary 10 days. How to spend 10 days in Australia?

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Australia is a developed country, with a high standard of living, but Australia’s unspoiled natural beauty is what attracts visitors to traveling here. Traveling to Australia, in addition to experiencing the attraction from nature, you also admire many architectural masterpieces and an unique and diverse culture.

Australia travel blog: Overview of Australia

Australia is one of the most ethnically diverse and culturally rich countries in the world with an area of ​​nearly 7.7 million square kilometers, including 6 states (New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania , Western Australia) and 2 territories (Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory).

With a large territory and rich natural resources, the population in Australia is quite small. That is why this is one of the countries with the lowest population density in the world.

Although most of Australia’s territory is drought, but this is still a place recognized as having superior biodiversity with such environments as deserts, alpine mountains, rainforests, islands, bays … That vastness that make Australia has many different climates varies by different regions.

Australia blog: When should I travel to Australia?

With an area of ​​7.69 million square kilometers, Australia is the 6th largest country in the world by area. Although the area is spread over a large area, the Australia climate does not have many clear differences between regions. One third of Australia has a tropical climate, the other two thirds are temperate, and 80% of the population living in coastal areas with mild, cool weather.

Located in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons in Australia are opposite with other countries in the Northern Hemisphere (Such as Vietnam). When you are preparing to go swimming in Danang, the people in Australia receive very cold snow (June).

As mentioned at the beginning of the article, with such a large territory, the climate in Australia depends on each region that is different from each other. However, in general, Australia is similar to the countries in the Southern Hemisphere with 4 distinct seasons and opposite with countries in the Northern Hemisphere.

Summer (December – February)

Bright golden sunshine along with crowded and bustling beaches are the ideal destinations for you to participate in outdoor activities; maybe swimmng in the cool blue waters of the beaches, try windsurfing or a picnic at the Overland Track (Tasamania). Please note that the rainy season in Australia will start from December to March.

Fall (March – May)

Romantic Australia with vibrant red coniferous forests Melbourne, Canberra. The weather is also quite cool and pleasant at this time. If you travel to Australia in late fall, you have the opportunity to see the magical first snowfalls of the season.

Winter (June – August)

The season to conquer the snow-covered Alps or watch the flock of whales migrate across the Atlantic Ocean, or conquer the vast Simpson Desert with mountain bikes, …

Spring (September – November)

Australia’s Spring Valse can melt any visitor’s heart. This is th best time for you to visit the colorful Floriade flower festival in Melbourne, participate in the outdoor weekend markets in Darwin…

Spring and autumn are the good times chosen by many tourists due to the cool and pleasant weather.

Depending on the destinations or regions that you intend to travel to, there will be a suitable time for that area, for example:

The best time to go to Sydney and Melbourne is from September to November and from March to May. At this time the temperature is not too high and the number of tourists is less crowded, so roomrates and flight tickets are also cheap compare with the peak season.

From December to February is the time when students in Australia are off, so the beaches are often full, domestic fares as well as hotel room price will be higher than normal. So this is the time when tourists are advised not to come to Australia if they do not like the crowded.

Don’t go to southern Australia in winter and northern Australia in summer if you don’t like its cold or hot.

Prepare clothing

Depending on when you are planning to travel to Australia and the regions you will be visit, dressing preparation may vary. However, Australia also has 4 seasons like Vietnam, only different in the time of season, so before you go you need to prepare seasonal clothes in Australia, not season in Vietnam. In general the outfit should be comfortable and convenient for your move.

Australia travel guide: How to get?

To getting to Australia, airline is the best choice for you. From Vietnam you can find flights to Australia offers by Vietnam Airlines or Pacific departing from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. In addition to the two domestic airlines mentioned above, you can also buy air tickets to fly to Australia from international airlines such as Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Thai Ariways, Cathay Pacific, Jetstar … with prices from about USD 400-2.000/round-trip. Try searching cheap tickets on reputable websites like skyscanner.com , momondo.com or edreams.com or Google Flights . Note: It takes about 15 hours on average to fly from Vietnam to Australia.

Australia currently has about 607 airports operating in the passenger transport sector. In which, there are 5 largest airports that are Kingsford Smith International Airport – Sydney; Melbourne Airport; Brisbane Airport; Adelaide Airport; Perth Airport. All airports in Australia offers taxi, bus, limousine or airport shuttle services that always available for passengers. Australia is extremely large because moving between cities is quite time consuming. For example, if you land at Sydney Airport and want to go to Melbourne, it will take you about 10 hours riding by car. Another option to save time is take domestic flights or trains.

Note: To have cheap tickets, you should book at least 1 to 2 months before departure date. It should also be noted that after obtaining an Australian tourist visa, you can book tickets to avoid losing money if you do not get a Visa unfortunately.

Australia travel blog: Transportation in Australia

To getting from the airport to your hotel in Australia you can use the airport bus service with a payment method via an Opal Card. To buy an Opal card you can visit https://transportnsw.info/opal-retailers/ to find the nearest buying point. Note that this card is also available at Australian airports.

In Australia, there are 4 popular types of public transport: Bus, Tram, Metro and Taxi. For buses, trains and subways, you need an Opal card when getting on and off and this is also the most economical way to traveling in Australia.

With Taxi, when traveling by this type, you need to note that taxi fees in Australia are quite expensive, so you should go with a group to share the cost instead of going alone. In addition, evening taxis in Australia will have higher rates than daytime. If you go out late with friends, this way will be more convenient because you will be transferred to your hotel.

Australia travel blog: Where to go and what to do?

Depending on the territory, regions and states or cities of Australia you are going to, we will recommend some attractive tourist destinations that many tourists visit as follows:

New South Wales and Sydney – The Port City and surrounding areas

The state of New South Wales is Australia’s most popular tourist state, with the famous capital city of Sydney and is best-known for its iconic images of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge. Departing from the city, you can go to the surrounding suburbs to explore the small fields in the Hunter valley and the misty eucalyptus forests in Blue Mountains. Alternatively, you can take short courses on how to surf in the Byron Bay, even to get rid of the noise of city life, you should visit the Lord Howe Island, this is a peaceful land just 373 miles to the east of the New South Wales coast.

South Queensland and Brisbane – The sunny state

This place is exactly a resting paradise for tourists with long sandy beaches and tropical forests, the south of Queensland is a region full of sunshine. Visitors will always feel excited about a comfortable, vibrant life with delicious food and nightlife venues. To explore the entire region, you should take the vibrant city of Brisbane as the central point, from there you can travel to other surrounding areas. On the way to the north, you should drop by the National Zoo & Aquarium before reaching Hervey Bay, the gateway area to Fraser Island – the largest sand island in the world.

The state of Victoria and Melbourne – Australia’s longest roadway

While traveling in the region, take a few days to explore the amusements of Melbourne, including a trip to the coastal suburb of St Kilda and visiting penguins on Phillip Island. Leaving Melbourne , riding along the Great Ocean Road , which stretches 150 miles from Torquay in the east to Warrnambool in western Australia, you can also visit the many scenic spots along the area including Great Otway National Park and Gulf of the Twelve Apostles.

Tasmania – Wild land

This is a beautiful island of hills, snow-capped mountains and blue lakes, stunning hiking trails. Tasmania is also famous for its ancient villages, historic sites and rich wildlife world. On your journey, start walking around the world-class museum Mona – Museum of Old and New Art in the state capital Hobart , stopping by on Cradle Mountain in the Lake St Clair National Park area and discover the history of the Port Arthur.

Northern Territory and Uluru

Uluru is famous for its vast desert landscape, red sands, and giant sandstone blocks. Set foot in this land, visitors should participate in outdoor activities including canoeing through Katherine Gorge and and hike to discover Aboriginal life in Kakadu National Park. In addition, when coming to Alice Springs, you can also take adventure trips to visit many areas including Uluru, Kings Canyon and the arched rocks of Kata Tjuta, then take the Ghan train to Darwin, from where you can easy access to Kakadu and Katherine Gorge.

South Australia and Adelaide – Welcome to the wine region

South Australia’s warm and sunny climate has made the beautiful vineyards of the Clare and Barossa valleys famous, so don’t forget to enjoy the finest wines here. From Adelaide you can take a tram to the coastal suburb of Glenelg, where the dolphin Bottlenose is raised. In addition, to learn more about wildlife life, pay attention to the Koala and the wallabies, the lovely animals featured on Kangaroo Island.

Rottnest Island – Western Australia and Perth

The area attracts less tourists than the other regions of the country, however, Western Australia is home to the coastal cities of Perth and Fremantle, and the ruby coler of Margaret River wines ​​and dolphins Monkey Mia. Cable beach is also considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Tropical North Queensland and The Whitsundays

This region is a famous land for those who want to vacation and participate in exciting entertainment activities such as: Sightseeing, exploring the ancient Daintree rainforest; scuba diving to explore the world famous Great Barrier Reef; Down further to the south of this land, you can head to Whitsundays Island and stop to explore the rainforests and waterfalls of Atherton Tablelands.

Australian Capital Territory

Located between Sydney and Melbourne, this territory is where the capital of Canberra is located. Wouldn’t it be flawed if you went to Australia but you didn’t go to their capital, right?

• Explore the capital, Canberra (dubbed “bush capital”).
• Learn about Australian history through museums such as: National Museum of Australia , Canberra Museum and Gallery , National Gallery of Australia ..
• Visit Namadgi National Park, one of the top favorite attractions of visitors here. You can drive or walk on the trails here and explore nature with a wide variety of wildlife. Note: You not allow to bring dogs into the park or throw garbage.

Australia travel blog: Suggest some interesting experiences you should try

For each traveler, they will have very interesting personal experiences. Here I will suggest some interesting experiences when coming to Australia.

• Learn to surf at the beaches.
• Enjoy Australian wine and cuisine.
• Observe and feeding wild animals in the wild.
• Sightseeing and snorkeling at the Great Barrier reef.
• Take part in a cultural festival in Australia.
• Buy some authentic Australian souvenirs to bring back.

Australia travel guide: Staying

Hotels in Australia are also quite diverse and throughout the country, especially in tourist destinations, you can easily book through the websites of Agoda.com , Booking.com and to really saving, you can choose to stay in a homestay which is much cheaper and get to interact with friendly locals here.

Australia travel blog: What should I try to eat in Australia?

For a country made up of many cultures and races around the world, the richness of Australian Cuisine will not make you disappoint. There are specialties in Australia that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. In addition, Australians love the warm sun and sea so BBQs are very popular here, you can easily see it when going to beaches and parks across Australia. All are free-offer with barbecue grill.

Australian wine

As a country with large vine farms, the wines in Australia are handcrafted with age-old secrets. Passing through each of the Australian territories, you can see the vinyards and wineries, so the taste of wine in Australia is very diverse in each region.

Bush Tucker

Bush Tucker bush food is an ancient dish of indigenous tribes in Australia. This dish includes flowers, wild fruits and insects for you to enjoy the taste of nature most directly (if you can, of course).

Kangaroo meat

It sounds ridiculous but very convincing in Australia. Kangaroo meat is not commonly used in Australian menus, but dishes made from Kangaroo meat can be enjoyed at some restaurants, especially grilled meat Kangaroo.

With most major cities located on the coast, using seafood is a specialty of Australians. You can try seafood dishes from raw to cooked throughout Australia’s coastal cities and especially on Tasmania Island.

Pavlova Cake

This is a dessert topped with fruit and whipped cream on the outside. This cake is extremely attractive from appearance to taste, its name is named after a Russian balle actor.

If you learn about Australian culture, you will not be surprised to see that the people here are often organizing outdoor BBQ parties. The popular BBQ meats here include Australian beef, crocodile meat and Kangaroo meat as well.

Australia travel blog: What to buy in Australia?

For a good trip, a souvenir with bold Australian identity is indispensable thing when you return. You can easily find cute koala teddy bears of various sizes for sale in souvenir shops across Australia or you can choose from Aboriginal artworks – unique Australian cultural features like boomerang, handkerchief, wooden statue, … Here are some things you should buy as gifts to bring back home:

• Australian Aboriginal handicrafts such as Boomerang, jewelry.
• Opal gemstone: Need to research carefully before buying.
• Akubra Hat: The wide-brimmed hat is quite stylish.
• Kangaroo leather products such as wallets, bags, belts …
• Macadamia: Australia is the home of the macadamia nuts.
• UGG Shoes: Suede suede shoe, extremely warm for a winter season.

Of course this list is just some of the typical Australian souvenir items, there are many more things you can buy besides them.

Some famous shopping places in Australia

Shopping locations in sydney.

• Queen Victoria Building : With more than 180 high-end stores. Here you can buy clothes, jewelry, accessories or home appliances. (Address: 455 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia / Hours: 9AM–5PM/Friday: Closed).
• The Rocks Market : Located near the Sydney Harbor area, The Rock is a bustling open-air market with shops selling clothes, souvenirs, handicrafts. Also, coming here you can enjoy street food too. (Address: George St, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia / Hours: 10AM–5PM).
• Pitt Street Mall : Located on a pedestrian-only street. This is one of the most famous shopping malls in Australia with famous brands in the world. (Address: 182 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia / Hours: 9AM–8PM).

Shopping locations in Melbourne

• Emporium Melbourne : If you are a fan of brands, this is the place you need to go. Emporium is one of Australia’s most luxurious shopping places with famous brands in fashion, jewelry, cosmetics and other goods. (Address: 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia / Hours: 10AM–7PM).
• Chadstone – The Fashion Capital : This is one of the largest shopping malls in Australia. For tourists this is an ideal shopping destination because there are tax incentives for visitors. (Address: 1341 Dandenong Rd, Chadstone VIC 3148, Australia / Chadstone is open from 9AM – 6PM (or 9AM-10PM depends on weekdays)).

Australia blog: Things to know before you go?

It is very important to know that a checklist of things not allow to bring to Australia is included on the Australian immigration form. Australian customs is very strict on immigration matters so it’s best to honestly declare it because if not, detection dogs will find out and you will be fined up to $66,000, be prosecuted or will be forced to return to Vietnam before entering Australia. Here are a few things that you cannot bring with you when entering Australia:

• Non-canned meat products such as fresh meat, dried meat
• Fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, seeds
• Herbal and Traditional Medicinal Materials.
• Items on body such as clothes or hats with feathers on you should absolutely avoid
• Egg and milk products.

Australia travel blog: Frequently asked questions when traveling to Australia

Should i travel to australia.

Yes, if financial conditions and time allow. Australia is stable and safe country, the nature is beautiful, the weather is quite nice, you can visit all year round, there are many vibrant festivals and rich cuisine.

Where to go?

For those who are traveling to Australia for the first time, you should visit Sydney and Melbourne first. Because there are many famous tourist destinations for you to explore.

How much money can I bring to Australia?

You can bring up to USD 5.000 USD or AUD 6.600 in cash to Australia. If you need to spend more, prepare your international payment cards to use when you come to Australia.

How much does it cost to travel to Australia?

Excluding the cost of shopping and spending outside the tour, each Australian tour costs about USD 1.800 – 2.900 for 1 adult depending on the travel time, air tickets, hotel, itinerary.

Self-sufficient

The cost of eating, drinking, and buying souvenirs ranges from USD 400 – 500.

Most places to visit in 2 major cities Melbourne and Sydney are free admission. So you only spend for pocket money, food and drink. Depending on the needs of each person, the amount will be different. But the cost of food in Australia is quite high and expensive. A budget meal costs 10 AUD – 15 AUD, in a day you can spend about $30 – $50 for eating.

A smart way to save on food costs is to take advantage of meals at hotels, guesthouses or buy a convenience store breakfast for a few AUD. If you travel to Australia alone, you can buy ready-meals at convenience stores, bring to your dorm room to eat for 1-2 meals because 1 serving is quite large.

In short, how much money for a self-sufficient trip to Australia? Total minimum cost for a 10-day trip in Australia is about $1.500 – $1.600. This amount is for backpackers, hunt for cheap flights, use public transport and spend the night at dorm. You can base on the information shared above to add costs if you choose to stay at the hotel and eat according to your needs.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Sydney you can refer to

• Shared Sydney Airport Transfers (SYD) for Sydney
• Private Sydney Airport (SYD) Transfers for Sydney CBD
• {Unp by AM}Shared Sydney Airport Transfers (SYD) for Sydney
• Sydney in a Day
• Canberra Capital City Day Tour
• Spectacular Sydney Tour
• Blue Mountains Day Tour with Parramatta River Cruise from Sydney
• Blue Mountains and Wildlife Day Tour from Sydney
• Blue Mountains All-Inclusive Day Tour from Sydney
• Bondi Beach & Sydney Sights Half Day Tour
• Manly and Beyond Half Day Tour
• The Sydney Explorer Pass
• iVenture Sydney Flexi Attractions Pass
• Sydney Attractions Combo Ticket (Bar Code Direct Entry)
• iVenture Sydney Unlimited Attractions Pass
• Sydney Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tours (Open-Top)
• Sydney Hop-On Hop-Off Harbor Cruise and Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Combo
• Sydney Hop On Hop Off Cruise 2 Day Pass by Captain Cook
• Sydney Harbour Highlights Cruise

Are you looking for more Australia travel guide. Read more: The fullest Sydney city guide blog for a great trip to Sydney for the first-timers. Or Melbourne guide , Perth guide , Brisbane guide , Adelaide guide , Tasmania guide , Gold Coast guide , Canberra guide .

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Explore NZ Travel Blog

31 of the best travel bloggers in australia (who just love to travel to nz).

Date Modefied: November 9, 2018

Every year, New Zealand welcomes thousands of visitors from Australia. Whilst we’re both perched down here at the bottom of the world, New Zealand and Australia are very different countries. That’s why Kiwis love to head over to Aussie for a holiday and vice versa.

We’re obviously super-passionate about our own country, so it’s always really great to hear what our friends across the ditch think about beautiful New Zealand. Thankfully of those thousands of visitors we welcome every year, lots of them have taken to the internet to write about their experiences! There are some truly awesome Australian travel bloggers out there and we’ve curated a list of some of our favourites!

So, here goes – 31 of the best Australian travel bloggers who just love to travel to New Zealand:

1.      Y Travel

There’s something about families who travel together that we simply love.  Caz and Craig Makepeace have been travelling together for 16 years. They’re serial travellers and have lived in 5 countries and had adventures in 52 during that time. More recently, they’ve added two travelling companions to their air tickets – daughters Kalyra and Savannah.

Originally from the Central Coast of Australia, Caz and Craig prefer to call the world their home. As well as visiting New Zealand , they also squeeze in some really awesome interviews with locals which adds some great depth to their posts. Make sure you check them out and follow them on social media below.

2.      World of Wanderlust

Like so many bloggers, Brooke, author and curator of World of Wanderlust started her journey on her own. With a one-way ticket booked to Paris, her adventures started when she was 20 and she’s still going strong! Brooke grew up in Tasmania and couldn’t wait to get out and explore what the world had to offer. After starting in Europe in Paris and later Budapest, Brooke has since been on to travel through Africa, Asia, the Middle East, North America, South America and of course, right here in New Zealand.

Brooke’s most recent visit to New Zealand was back in August when she paid a visit to the South Island with visits to Queenstown, Wanaka, Mt Cook, Dunedin and the Catlins. Read all about her adventures and more and follow Brooke on social media.

3.      Time Travel Turtle

Michael Turtle is one of life’s true storytellers. From his early days writing the student newsletter to his decade working as a TV and radio reporter, Michael has been telling great stories for as long as he can remember. His travel blog seemed like the most natural progression. Inspired by how much there is to see in the world, Michael no longer has a place to call home. Instead, he travels from country to country, creating and reporting new stories every day.

Michael does things a little bit differently though. He hates queues. That’s why he made it his mission to start telling people stories from those off-the-beaten-track destinations where there are no queues. The little nuggets and hidden gems that will blow you away. Make sure you check out Michael’s blogs about New Zealand and follow him on social media.

4.      Mapping Megan

What a combination! Australian Journalist Megan Jerrard has partnered with husband and photographer Mike to bring you Mapping Megan. These two are intrepid travellers and adrenalin junkies. From skydiving in the Swiss Alps to walking with elephants in Africa, their journey is pretty incredible. Megan has visited over 50 countries across the world including right here in New Zealand and has been travelling since 2007. Mike is a wildlife photographer with over 25 years of experience. Together they bring you inspiring stories beautiful written and accompanied by some pretty amazing photography.

Be sure to check out their New Zealand posts and follow them on social media.

5.      The Travel Tart

If you’re looking for great travel tips and a good laugh, then make sure you sign up to The Travel Tart. Set up by Anthony, a self-confessed travel addict, The Travel Tart is a more light-hearted view of the world. Don’t expect to see too many Instagram shots of buff shirtless men or bikini poses here. Instead, you can expect content like silly travel infographics, hilarious Russian swear words, how to find cheap flight tickets the dodgy way and the worst movies for travellers.

Sound up your street? Be sure to check out Anthony’s posts about New Zealand and follow him on social media for a daily dose of laughter.

6.      Nomadasaurus

Nomadasaurus ate Australia’s biggest travel blog written and curated by travel writers and photographers Alesha Bradford and Jarryd Salem. They started Nomadasaurus back in 2013 to document their journey overland from Asia to Africa. Since then, they’ve been blogging about their adventures all over the world including little old New Zealand.

These guys are all about road tripping which we absolutely love! They figured out they much prefer to travel overland than by plane so made it their mission to explore as much of the world by road as possible. These guys have some truly amazing stories and they’ve written a pretty cool little guide to New Zealand as well as some awesome blog posts. Follow them on social media for more adventure stories.

7.      2 Aussie Travellers

You guessed it. This awesome travel blog is written by 2 Aussies, Toni and Drew who love to share their travel photos, experiences and lessons learnt along the way. We love their philosophy; you shouldn’t have to wait for your holidays to enjoy yourself. Get out and explore your own city, take short breaks and get away for the weekend. Even day trips can lead to completely new and amazing experiences.

They’re both well travelled and have visited over 25 countries, claiming passports from three of them! Having spent a lot of time in New Zealand (both living and travelling), they have some amazing tips and advice for exploring our beautiful country. Check out their New Zealand posts and follow them on social media.

8.      Flying the Nest

Flying the Nest is an awesome travel blog run by young Aussie couple Stephen and Jess. They are also pretty epic YouTubers so if you love to see videos from amazing destinations around the world, these are the guys you need to follow. They set up their blog back in 2014 and have been blogging pretty much daily about their adventures since.

They travel the world full time (lucky them) and do from time to time come to our beautiful shores. Their videos provide a really fascinating insight into life on the road as a full-time traveller – the highs and lows and all the amazing people they meet along their way. Make sure you check them out on YouTube and read through some of their posts about New Zealand .

9.      The Road to Anywhere

Dean is an adrenaline junky and loves the outdoors and adventure. Growing up in Perth, this is understandable. No matter where he travels, whether close to home or thousands of miles away, he loves to make the most of every second of the day. He has done a lot of trekking both at home and right here in New Zealand as well as summiting Mount Kilimanjaro.

Dean is currently residing in Brisbane and from here he still gets out to explore as often as he can which means regular visits to New Zealand. Check out his posts and get some top tips for exploring New Zealand on foot and by road.

10. Frugal Frolicker

Lindsay is the author and curator of the Frugal Frolicker. An American native who now calls Australia home, Lindsay was late into travelling compared to some of the awesome bloggers on our list. After starting out a highly successful career in investment banking, Lindsay soon became disillusioned and set up her own wedding photography business and later worked for an online advertising agency before finally taking the plunge at 28 to head off and do some travelling in Southeast Asia. The bug had hit. Despite going back to work for a year, it was not long before Lindsay hit out again and this time for good!

Since arriving in Australia in 2014, Lindsay has also made quite a few trips across to New Zealand although her last was in 2016 so we think it’s time you came back from a visit! Read all about Lindsay’s adventures in NZ and follow her on social media.

11. Aussie on the Road

Chris is another one of our bloggers who is lucky enough to call himself a full-time traveller. Chris was never cut out for the 9-5 life although like Lindsay above, Chris was late to the travel game and only took his first flight away from Australian soil at 23. He has been making up for lost time ever since!

Chris specialises in what he likes to call ambitious travel. Basically, this involves embarking on long-term adventures that most people can only dream about. That might be travelling the length of the Trans-Siberian railway, circumnavigating Australia or undertaking the ultimate African safari. Whatever your wildest dreams can come up with epitomises ambitious travel. Chris has naturally spent a fair bit of time right here in neighbouring New Zealand. Make sure you check out his posts and follow him on social media.

12. Our Oyster

Another Australian family travelling the world together! Our Oyster Project is told by travelling couple Jade and husband Simon along with their two kids Jacob and Zach. They have a few mottos that they live by: 1) travel on a budget so you can get more done…for longer. 2) Travel now – tomorrow is just a dream. And finally 3) Who said you can’t travel with a baby? All of these mottos mean the family are constantly on the move, exploring new places and letting their kids see the world!

Their posts are a mix of destination reviews but also great tips, especially for people travelling with kids. Check out their latest posts from New Zealand and follow them on social media.

13. Budget Travel Talk

We love these guys! Jan and Marty are an Aussie couple in their 60s who love to travel. Being retired an in their 60s, they have a flexible travel budget which means they often offer up some totally different experience to other travellers on our list. They were inspired to start writing a travel blog as a way of ‘paying it back’. They used so many awesome travel blogs to research their own trips that they decided to help other out and set up Budget Travel Talk.

Despite their flexible budget, they still love to provide travellers with money saving tips like looking for housesitting opportunities and even caravanning. They’ve been to New Zealand a few times on their travels to make sure you check out their posts and follow them on social media.

14. Not a Ballerina

Whilst this one doesn’t sound like much of a travel blog at first glance, the full name of this awesome blog is ‘I’m not a ballerina, I’m a traveller and a thinker’ and Amanda Kendle has been writing awesome blogs since 2005. Amanda started travelling young and when she was just nine, got her first taste on a family trip to Europe. In her twenties, she lived in Japan, Slovakia and Germany and has gone on to visit 40 countries and counting. For Amanda, there is nothing like breathing the air of a new destination, meeting new people, hearing new languages and discovering cultural quirks that make places so interesting.

Amanda writes a lot of her own content but also pulls in posts from friends when it can be super-helpful to her audience. That’s why her recent New Zealand posts all come from her friend Kirsty who was campervanning around NZ with her kids. Read more and follow Amanda on social media.

15. Department of Wandering

Another slightly different angle on the travel blog, the Department of Wandering is ‘a travel and lifestyle blog for the design savvy trailblazers looking to take bold, new paths.’ It’s a blog that is more about the hidden gems than the common tourist traps and takes people beyond the guidebook. Born out of a desire to escape the 9-5 grind, Department of Wandering was set up in 2014 from Rachel’s office in Berlin. It has since evolved into an awesome resource of travel tips, inspiring stories and exciting destinations all around the world.

Rachel’s most recent trip to New Zealand was back in July 2017 but you will still find some really awesome tips and advice if you are planning a trip here. She loves weekend road trips so there are some great itineraries in there so check them out !

16. Flights to Fancy

Allison is the author and curator of Flights to Fancy which she runs from her home in Sydney Australia. A Risk Manager by Day, Allison took her first international flight when she was just nine months old and has been travelling ever since. She has visited 23 countries in total and instead of living the dream of travelling full-time, manages to break up her annual leave into blocks of 1 week holidays to explore as much as she can.

Allison describes her travel style as ‘luxury for less’ and looks for bargains wherever she travels. Make sure you follow her blog for tips on amazing hotels, must-do activities and fabulous feasts!

17. Eco Traveller

We think Linda is on to something big with her Eco Traveller blog. There is a growing movement towards eco-tourism and Linda has been on board since 2011 with her awesome blog. Whilst Linda is originally from Northern Ireland, she now calls Melbourne home and has travelled extensively throughout Asia, North America, Australia and of course, New Zealand. Linda’s blogs are insightful and provide some awesome travel tips, but they always bring us back to eco travelling and how we should be thinking responsibly when we travel. Want to go to Phi Phi in Thailand but worries about overcrowding? She has a great alternative. Fancy trekking Machu Picchu but concerned about the damage caused by so many tourists? She has another amazing walk in Peru that has the wow factor.

When it comes to New Zealand, Linda has some great posts on conservation and sustainability in projects throughout the country. Make sure you check out her New Zealand blogs and follow her on social media.

18. Venga, Vale, Vamos

OK, so technically Kirstie, author and curator of Venga, Vale, Vamos is not an Aussie. She did, however, spend two and a half years calling Sydney home before heading off to become a full-time traveller and has some awesome tips on travelling both here in New Zealand as well as Australia. She is a traveller of note having visited 72 countries and counting and caught the bug early on a trip to Granada in Spain (hence the Spanish influence in the title of her blog). Whether you’re a traveller, thinking about travelling or maybe an expat living overseas, Kirstie has some awesome tips on doing it all!

Make sure you check out Kirstie’s awesome blog posts on New Zealand – whilst Kirstie’s last trip to New Zealand was back in 2016 when she spent a month travelling around the North and South Islands, she is eagerly awaiting her next trip.

19. Polkadot Passport

If you love fun-seeking adventure, then make sure you follow 24-year old Aussie photographer and blogger, Nicola and her fantastic Polkadot Passport blog. Nicola’s journey is actually very different to a lot of the bloggers on our list. Instead of heading off to Uni and then on an OE, Nicola finished up with high school and followed her passions: photography and travel and has now carved out a full-time career from it. At only 24, Nicola has already visited 54 countries in 4 continents. Her blog is a mix of bucket-list experiences, destination guides, travel photography tips and some pretty amazing stories.

Make sure you check out Nicola’s posts about beautiful New Zealand and follow her on social media.

20. Little Grey Box

Amazing photos and awesome writing are what you can expect from Phoebe and Matt, award-winning Australian bloggers and professional travel creatives. These guys are the bomb when it comes to creating awesome content – Phoebe is a travel writer and photographer and Matt is a videographer and photographer – a perfect combination for producing and curating an award-winning travel blog.

Phoebe and Matt write a lot of content about travelling in Australia but they do like to pop over the ditch every now and again and have written some awesome guides to travelling in New Zealand . They love their skiing and have some great tips for hidden gem ski locations and love to get off the typical tourist path and explore some of our hidden gems.

21. A Matter of Taste

A blog about food and travel – now that’s our kind of blog! A Matter of Taste is an awesome blog where you will find recipes, hotels, flights and lounge reviews – all super-useful content that’s for sure. The blog is authored and curated by Aga who was born and raised in Poland, however has been living in Australia since 2010 and now calls Melbourne home. Instead of ticking off bucket-list items when planning an adventure, Ada picks her destinations based on what she can eat when she gets there – we love that!

Along with her husband, Ada has travelled extensively through New Zealand since moving to Australia and has some awesome tips and driving itineraries – make sure you check them out!

22. Thrifty Family Travels

Who says adventure has to stop once you have a family? That’s when the fun just begins! Thrifty Family Travels is a great resource for anyone who is travelling with a young family. Melissa, Andy and young daughter Myla are travelling the world on a budget (with the occasional splurge of course!). They are currently based in Brisbane and like Ada above, they also have a strong focus on food (mainly Andy!). Their blog is packed with tips about packing light, where to go and how to save money once you get there.

The Thrifty Family have travelled to New Zealand a couple of times already and created an awesome family-friendly itinerary for the South Island as well as picking out some of the best free family activities along the way. Check out their New Zealand posts with more coming soon!

23. She Goes

Emma is the author and curator of She Goes – a witty and informative travel blog which will take you to all four corners of the globe with some insightful and informative posts. Emma has been writing since a very early age and her unbiased opinion gives plenty of food for thought. Emma has travelled pretty extensively in New Zealand although it’s a couple of years since her last visit (come back soon Emma!). From tips on things to do in the Bay of Islands to campervanning through New Zealand, Emma has some great content and wonderful stories from her time in New Zealand.

Make sure you follow Emma on social media to keep up to date with her latest travels.

24. Travel Boating Lifestyle

We love these travel writer/photographer partnerships! They certainly make for great travel blogs. Fiona is a travel writer, photographer and content creator and her partner David is a photographer, videographer and web producer. This is a super-experience team who have been creating stories for the best part of half a century (keep that one quiet!). Their blog is old school and has old-school values – high quality journalism and good old-fashioned values. These guys have been published in world-leading publications including Australian Geographic and World Travel.

Despite being based in Australia, these guys have had limited travels to New Zealand (come back guys!). They do have some great posts however which are well worth checking out, especially if you’re into wine and/or hiking!

25. The Travel Temple

If you are over 30 years of age and have never really travelled before, you need to check out The Travel Temple. This is a blog written exactly with you in mind. Informative posts to help to get you out seeing the world. These guys try to cover off all your bases if you are planning a trip for the first time – big or small. From accommodation and airline tips to dining, tours and activities – they’ve got some awesome tips from their extensive travels across the globe.

These guys, Tiana and Trevor Templeman, have worked with some of the leading travel brands including Tourism Australia and Flight Centre so they have plenty of experience and expertise. They have travelled extensively throughout New Zealand so if you are planning your first trip to our shores, check them out!

26. Footprints and Memories

Footprints and Memories is a curation of posts from around the world brought to you by Amy and Will. These guys like to get around and a lot of their travels seem to come on two wheels. They have some awesome blogging posts from all around the world which provides a different perspective to a lot of the bloggers in our list.

Most of Amy and Will’s travels to New Zealand have focussed on the big cities like Auckland and Wellington so if you are planning a trip to either of these destinations, make sure you check out their New Zealand posts .

27. Traveling Honeybird

Coffee lover? Make sure you follow Traveling Honeybird – a travel blog fuelled by two coffee lovers – Jean and James. These guys are serious mountain bikers and hikers who also love the beach and the mountains so they cover off loads of great destinations and activities. It’s been a couple of years since their last visit to New Zealand, however they love a winter trip here for the snowing and beautiful landscapes so they have plenty of great posts from their previous visits to our shores.

Make sure you follow the Traveling Honeybird on social media for all their latest posts.

28. Why You Wander

We love this blog as it offers a completely different take on travel to many of the bloggers on our list. Why You Wander is written and curated by Rohini and she decided not to quit her 9-5 job and instead tries to offer insights for people who struggle with time, money and opportunities to travel. Instead of focussing on full-time travel, Rohini instead writes articles that help travellers plan for short-term travels. Some of her itineraries are jam-packed full of things to do as Rohini always tries to maximise every second of her travels.

Rohini was over in New Zealand as recently as June 2018 and regularly visits so there are plenty of great blog posts on her blog so make sure you check them out!

29. Destinationless Travel

Dan and Bailey, authors and curators of Destinationless Travel, are your average backpackers, excited about discovering new destinations all around the world. These guys are super-relatable if you are planning any sort of backpacking trips – they travel on a budget, love to party with other travellers and write some pretty awesome stories on their blog. They are your typical Aussies – usually found in a hostel bar chatting to other people from around the world. Friendly and warm, their passion for travel comes out in their blogs.

These guys are regular visitors to New Zealand and unsurprisingly they love Queenstown! Make sure you check out their awesome New Zealand posts and follow them on social media.

30. The Snow Chasers

Mick and Jen are a husband and wife team from Australia and as you can probably guess from their blog name, these guys love to snowboard and travel! They spend the winter in ski towns around the world and the rest of the year exploring and having fun. Their blog is great if you love the snow and you’re a skier or snowboarder – they have so many awesome tips and advice for places to visit, things to pack, how to pick the best insurance and how to save to do all this travelling! There is more to their blog than just snowboarding though and mingled in between all the snow stories, you will find other inspiring tales from their travels together.

New Zealand features high on their list of places to blog about as the perfect winter playground for many Aussies. Get the inside track on winter trips to New Zealand straight from a couple of Aussies who make the regular pilgrimage across the ditch every winter.

31. Taking to the Open Road

We know that for some people, planning an entire trip itinerary can be pretty daunting – that’s why we created our awesome itineraries section. The guys behind Taking To The Open Road had exactly the same idea! They have some awesome information for seasoned travellers with itineraries ranging from 1-3 days all the way up to weeks of adventure on the road. With resources for over 20 travel destinations around the world, Peggy has pulled together some fantastic tips from the 40+ countries she has visited to date.

Whilst Peggy has not been to New Zealand that often, she does have a handful of informative posts on her blog so make sure you check them out and follow her on social media.

With so many Aussie visitors coming to New Zealand every year, we hope you find these bloggers to be super helpful in giving you the lowdown – one Aussie to another! There are some really awesome posts from all of these guys and we hope you enjoy researching your trip and making the most of your time in New Zealand.

See you soon!

Related Posts

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16 things to know before going to Australia

Nov 3, 2023 • 10 min read

Follow these tips on health, safety, and etiquette for the best travel experience in Australia © John Crux Photography / Getty Images

As an Australian living in New York in my early 20s, I found myself fielding a wide range of questions about my home country.

Some were amusing, others were downright bewildering: “Do you ride kangaroos to school?” “Are there drop bears in the woods?” “Are Australian dollars really called ‘dollarydoos’?” 

Australia can feel like an enigma, particularly for foreign travelers. It's a land filled with myths and misconceptions that could fill volumes, and the idea of Australia being a homogenous country is far from accurate. In reality, it's a diverse mix of cultures and ethnicities, with a rich Indigenous history spanning tens of thousands of years. Australian cities are multicultural hubs and most Australians live in vibrant urban centers – a sharp contrast to the rugged Crocodile Dundee  stereotype.

This abundance of misinformation can make it challenging to prepare for a trip Down Under. To help you separate fact from fiction and ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, here's a local’s guide to Australia and its people, including top tips on health, safety and etiquette.

1. There is no “right” time to visit Australia

Australia is almost as big as the United States, with everything from lush rainforests to snowy alps. Our weather varies significantly depending on where you are in the country and the time of year. The Northern Territory’s Top End remains hot year-round, with only two distinct seasons (the “wet” season and the “dry” season). In contrast, New South Wales experiences everything from blisteringly hot days during the summer to sub-zero temperatures during the winter. Even the Red Centre’s temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) to over 40°C (104°F) throughout the year.

Each state and region dances to its own climate tune, so think regionally when considering the best time for your visit  and pack accordingly. To catch Uluru at its best, for example, opt for cooler months (between May to September) to avoid walking the base on a scorching day. In Tasmania , coastal heaths bloom from late October to early November, while food festivals are held from March to May. Winter is when Tasmania and the mountainous regions of New South Wales and Victoria experience snowfall. Meanwhile, visitors might find themselves cooling off in ocean waters along the East Coast year-round. 

2. You’ll need to save money for your dream Australian holiday

Australia isn't known for being budget-friendly, particularly in cities such as Melbourne and Sydney. Iconic experiences like four-wheel driving across K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) or snorkeling on the  Great Barrier Reef can be expensive, with tours and experiences costing hundreds of dollars per person.

However, smart planning and a clear budget can help you make the most of your money. Many of Australia's top outdoor attractions are free; from scenic drives along the Great Ocean Road to swimming at Bondi Beach .

3. If you want to see a kangaroo, get out of the city

Kangaroos aren't a common sight on bustling city streets – but you don’t necessarily have to “go bush” to see them. Instead, you'll find them in suburban areas including on golf courses, where they love to congregate on the links.

However, most kangaroo encounters usually happen during hikes or on road trips through regional landscapes, especially at dusk and dusk when they’re most active. Farm stays are also a great option if you want to see more of Australia’s wildlife . (And before you ask: Yes, you can eat kangaroo. It’s delicious.)

4. Australia is home to the oldest continuous living culture in the world

Australia's Indigenous population includes both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders . This population is not a single group, but rather a rich tapestry of  hundreds of distinct groups or “nations,” each with their own languages, histories, and cultural traditions. Translation? Not every group plays the didgeridoo or uses a boomerang.

During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the traditional landowners, with Aboriginal museums and art galleries dotted across the country. Indigenous-led tours – including those that are part of the  Discover Aboriginal Experiences collection – are a great way to learn more.

5. Be prepared to talk to strangers on the train

Aussies are incredibly friendly and enjoy a good chat. You might find someone starting a conversation with you on a train or even stopping you on the street for a quick “chinwag.”

Australians are also known for their courtesy and manners. They'll hold doors open and if you're in their way, they'll step aside. As a visitor, it's important to be mindful of your surroundings and return the favor by holding a door or an elevator – a small gesture that means a lot.

6. The Great Barrier Reef is vulnerable – but it’s not “dead”

The Great Barrier Reef – arguably Australia’s most iconic attraction – made headlines in 2016, when reports claimed it was “dead” following coral bleaching events.

There’s no question that climate change has had an adverse effect on the Great Barrier Reef . In addition to increasing water temperatures, the vulnerable ecosystem has also been impacted by pollution from land run-off and the increasing severity and frequency of cyclones. 

However, the Great Barrier Reef is more resilient than you think. It’s also far from lifeless. If you dive into the water, you may see evidence of bleaching events, but you’re just as likely to see colorful corals teeming with life. Increasingly, visitors can also get involved in reef restoration, including by participating in citizen science surveys such as  Eye on the Reef.

7. Walking around barefoot is normal

Be prepared to see many Aussies strolling around barefoot, even in cities and public places, such as grocery stores, cafes and hardware stores.  

Why? It all comes down to beach culture, which has a way of spilling over into everyday life, whether there’s sand and salt water present or not. 

8. Keep a sense of perspective about crocs, snakes and spiders

Despite the famous belief that all wildlife Down Under is out to get you, a 2017 study conducted by Melbourne University researchers found that horses have caused more deaths in Australia than all the venomous creatures – including snakes and spiders – combined.

The reality is that crocodiles aren't wandering the streets (they’re only found along coastlines and waterholes in Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Queensland) and you’re more likely to encounter possums and harmless insects in buildings. Just be cautious of swooping magpies if you're in parks between August and October. This is when they’re breeding and are protecting their eggs or newly hatched chicks. 

9. Restaurant kitchens close between 3pm and 5pm 

Australia's urban and rural areas have their own life rhythm. In cities, restaurants tend to wrap up service by 11pm, but it's as early as 8pm in rural areas. Nightclubs and bars close around 2am.

What catches many travelers off-guard is that there's also a mid-afternoon dead zone between 3pm and 5pm, when the majority of cafes and restaurants are closed. Even the kitchens in pubs may not do food service at this time. If you’re after something to eat between these hours, fast food is your friend.

10. You don't need to tip in Australia

Australia's minimum wage is higher than in many countries. (At the time of writing, the national minimum wage is $23.23 per hour.) As a result, tipping isn’t customary in Australia, as all service charges are already factored into the cost of your meal. However, if you genuinely wish to show appreciation for outstanding service, tipping is at your discretion.

11. Australians speak an entirely different kind of English

Australians are renowned for their own unique take on the English language and you’re going to encounter a lot of slang from locals. Regional variations also exist, so if you meet someone from outback Queensland , they’re going to sound a little different to someone from Brisbane .

“Arvo” (good afternoon) is not to be confused with “avo” (avocado). You buy booze from the “bottle-o” and get “petty” (petrol or gas) from the “servo” (service station). Many words are abbreviated, with an “o” or “ie” added to the end. Endearing terms like “mate” are also common, but phrases you likely won’t hear (from anyone under the age of 60, at least) are “crikey” or “fair dinkum.” 

One thing you will hear? Colorful language. Don’t be surprised or take offense if you catch an Australian dropping a swear word during a chat. It’s normal.

12. Meat pie, Vegemite and chicken salt are must-try foods

Australia lacks a single defining cuisine, but few things are as quintessentially Aussie as tucking into a steaming meat pie, traditionally served in a paper bag with a generous squeeze of tomato sauce (ketchup). It's a deliciously messy experience and an integral part of Australian food culture .

Vegemite is also a must-have experience. Spread a thin layer (thin being very important) on toast for a salty kick. Speaking of salt, chicken salt on hot chips (fries) is a near-obligatory and delightful initiation for newcomers. This seasoning has been a popular add-on to fries since it was launched in Australia in 1979. (By the way, it’s usually vegan. There's no actual chicken in it; just a lot of MSG.)

13. Snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef requires covering up

Are you excited about that cute holiday snap snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef? Don’t spend too much time selecting a bathing suit for photo ops as nobody will see it. 

That’s because from May to November, it's stinger (jellyfish) season in tropical north Queensland. You'll need to don a rather stylish stinger suit supplied by your tour boat operator, complete with a hood and mitten-like hand covers. It might look a bit peculiar, but it's your best defense against the venomous and often hard-to-spot irukandji and box jellyfish that lurk in the water. It's much better than the alternative – getting stung.

14. People walk on the left

On sidewalks, trails and stairs, sticking to the left helps maintain a smooth flow of foot traffic and prevents any awkward dance moves with strangers trying to pass. Some train stations have arrows to direct the flow.

This practice also aligns with Australia's left-hand driving tradition. According to the UK’s National Motor Museum, driving on the left may have emerged as a safety measure, particularly when the main road hazard was highway robbery. Travelers would pass oncoming strangers on their right side, keeping their sword arm toward the passer-by. (Don't worry, you won't be jousted in Australia.)

15. The Outback can be unforgiving

Don't underestimate the harshness of the Australian Outback . Although it covers roughly 70% of the Australian continent, only around 5% of the population lives there. For those unprepared for its remote conditions, it can also present danger. A broken-down car, for example, could lead to heat exhaustion, dehydration, or worse.

So, if you're planning an independent outback road trip – to the Nullarbor Plain or  Flinders Ranges , for example – do your homework and prepare for anything and everything. Stock up on water, go slow (especially on gravel roads), and let someone know your plans because the phone signal is spotty at best. For added safety, consider a personal locator beacon to instantly alert emergency services in case of trouble. If that sounds daunting, countless tour operators are pros at taking tourists – safely – through these iconic landscapes.

16. Beware of dangerous currents when swimming in the ocean

The primary danger for swimmers at Australian beaches isn't the wildlife; it's the perilous underwater currents known as “rips.” Rip currents have the potential to pull swimmers out to sea and are typically found in areas with underwater sand banks that obstruct the free flow of water back to the shore.

Not every beach is patrolled by lifeguards, so it's best not to risk it if you're not a confident swimmer. Just dip your ankles in for the same feeling.

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• Travel blog

The Wildlife of Kangaroo Island

14 JUN 2024

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Kangaroo Island Wildlife and Where to See them

Slip away to Kangaroo Island and discover a sanctuary of wildlife and natural beauty. This isolated pocket of island wilderness, just a stone’s throw from Adelaide , is unlike anywhere else on earth – offering some of the most authentic nature and wildlife experiences in Australia. Trade the city life for iconic Australian animals and breathtaking scenery, with our guide to Kangaroo Island’s captivating wildlife and where to find them.

Land Animals 

Kangaroos 

Kangaroo Island, aptly named for its abundant kangaroo population, is a haven for a variety of fascinating land animals. Roaming the island's grasslands, the Kangaroo Island kangaroo – a subspecies of the western grey kangaroo – delights visitors at every turn. With a population 14 times that of humans on the island, you’ll most likely spot one without even trying. As you journey further into the island, the coastal bushland reveals the tammar wallaby, a smaller kangaroo specie that also inhabits Kangaroo Island. The best spots to sight these iconic Australian animals in their natural habitat are at Stokes Bay or along scenic trails such as the Kangaroo Island Sculpture Trail in Penneshaw or the Wallaby Run dirt track.

Writer’s tip: The best time for spotting Kangaroos is often at dawn or dusk and you can find them roaming in your backyard when you book a stay at Ecopia Retreat , Sea Dragon or around Vivonne Bay’s campsites and jetty. 

Koalas 

Despite the name, Kangaroo Island is one of the best places to see koalas in the wild in Australia. Cruising around the island, you need only to turn your eyes to the eucalyptus treetops to spot koalas lazily lounging in the canopies. For a truly immersive and up-close encounter, head to  Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park or join the guided koala walk at Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary.

Echidnas 

From furry friends to the spiky kind, amidst the island's bushland cast your eyes to the ground and you might just find a short-beaked echidna. Resembling a cross between a porcupine and an anteater, these curious creatures are spotted practically anywhere on the island. The best time to see echidnas is during mating season in October, when a female leads a string of males in what’s known as the ‘echidna train’. Join  Exceptional Kangaroo Island on their conservation tour with world echidna expert – Dr Peggy Rismiller – for a fascinating insight into the life of the world’s oldest mammal.

Birds 

Bird enthusiasts, too, find joy on Kangaroo Island, as the rare and majestic glossy black cockatoo graces the stringybark woodlands with its glossy black feathers and vibrant red tail panels. The best place to view them is on the eastern reaches of the Island in Penneshaw at Baudin Conservation Park , and American River – chances are you’ll probably hear them before you see them! 

Marine Creatures

Dolphins 

Kangaroo Island's coastal waters are teeming with marine life, offering unique opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to experience the wonders of the ocean. Cruise along the rugged coastline and be greeted by pods of playful bottle-nosed dolphins, known for showing off their acrobatic displays, surfing capabilities and curious nature. Often dancing in the waves behind boats, you’re likely to spot them following you on the ferry over to Kangaroo Island, as a resident pod cruises back and forth around Penneshaw. Other pods patrol waters dotted around the island in Vivonne Bay or in calm waters of Emu Bay , as pods often visit shallow waters between resting and feeding. 

Seals 

Kangaroo Island is also home to a colony of endangered Australian sea lions, often found lounging at  Seal Bay Conservation Park . One of the world’s rarest marine creatures, seals are affectionately known as the puppy dogs of the sea and are frequently seen in the waters surrounding Kangaroo Island. With a population of 800 sea-lions, Seal Bay Conservation Park acts as a sanctuary and offers the perfect opportunity for visitors to observe playful pups and lively juveniles basking along the picturesque white sand dunes and coves. Join a guided tour and immerse yourself in their world, learning about their diverse coastal habitat. For a more relaxed experience, stroll along the wheelchair-accessible boardwalks winding through scenic dunes to various viewing platforms and observe them in their natural element.

Whales 

During the winter months, the waters surrounding Kangaroo Island become a haven for majestic southern right whales, as they migrate to the island's shores to calve and nurse their young. Set off on a whale-watching expedition with  Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari for a chance to witness these gentle giants breaching and tail slapping against the horizon. Or join the team at Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari for a spectacular coastal and wildlife tour visiting places like Dolphin Cove, Kangaroo Head and Snapper Point for the chance to see whales, dolphins, sea lions and more. 

Writer’s tip: Keep an eye out when you’re back on land too - whales can be seen all around Kangaroo Island. Top spots for whale watching include Penneshaw and around Kingscote.

Penguins 

As night falls, marvel at the sight of fairy penguins returning to their burrows after a day of fishing at sea. One of the rarer wildlife to spot on Kangaroo Island, you’ll often hear penguins more than you can see them in places like Emu Bay. Join a guided tour to observe these diminutive seabirds waddling ashore in a charming display of nature's beauty. 

Guided Tours 

Kangaroo Island is a haven for Australian native flora and fauna. Not sure where to start? Either explore the island at your own pace or join a tour and let the island experts take you on a journey to witness iconic Australian wildlife on the island. Join Exceptional Kangaroo Island for a wildlife adventure with bespoke tours led by experienced guides who provide insights into the island's unique ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Board Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari and cruise around the island’s best locations to spot wildlife on their 75-minute tour or immerse yourself in a two-hour underwater adventure. Experience the islands ancient natural landscapes at Flinders Chase National Park , home to Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch . Amidst the dramatic landscapes, set off on a wildlife watching adventure with the help of Kangaroo Island Touring Company . 

From curious creatures to ancient natural wonders... 

Whether you're seeking close encounters with iconic Australian animals or thrilling adventures in the great outdoors, Kangaroo Island offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Australia's wild beauty. Continue your exploration of bucket-list worthy spots in South Australia with our guide to Kangaroo Island's most jaw-dropping natural wonders.

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Children traveling to the U.S.

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents such as a passport or document from a Trusted Traveler Program to enter the U.S. If you travel or are going to travel with a child, consider taking the following documents:

• If the child is traveling with only one of their custodial parents, they must have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent or signed by both parents. The letter should say "I acknowledge that my son/daughter is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
• If one parent has sole custody of the child, a copy of the custody document can take the place of the other parent's letter.
• Parents who frequently cross the border by land with a minor must always carry a letter of permission from the other parent.

U.S. citizen children traveling abroad

Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction . If you are traveling alone with your child, you may be required to present documentation proving you are the parent or legal guardian. You may also need a letter of permission from the other parent for your child to travel. 

If your child travels alone, depending on the country, they may be required to present a notarized letter from both parents or their legal guardian. If a minor is traveling abroad and is not accompanied by both parents or a legal guardian, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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• BEST OF THE WORLD

25 breathtaking places and experiences for 2023

Looking for your next adventure? You’ll find it on our annual list of the world’s best destinations for travelers.

Travel inspiration is everywhere you look. The question is where to go next. Here’s our annual list of superlative destinations for the year ahead—places filled with wonder, rewarding to travelers of all ages, and supportive of local communities and ecosystems. Reported by our global editors and framed by five categories ( Community , Nature , Culture , Family , and Adventure ), these 25 destinations for 2023 are under the radar, ahead of the curve, and ready for you to start exploring.

Community: Where conservation benefits everyone

Discover Karpathos, Greece, a surprising and sublime spot in the Dodecanese Islands , where women-led ventures are leading the charge in sustainable tourism. Spend a long weekend in Milwaukee, Wisconsin , a vibrant Great Lakes city that celebrates its cultural community as much as its breweries. Experience how long-held traditions and contemporary perspectives intersect, with Indigenous tourism outfitters in Alberta, Canada . Board a new high-speed train that makes lesser known regions of Laos accessible to tourists and brings economic opportunities to locals. Head to Ghana to explore Black heritage and hang out with a fashion-forward crowd in the capital, Accra. ( Learn more about how these Best of the World destinations support their communities. )

Nature: Escapes to wild, beautiful places

Marvel at the biodiversity of Botswana —as well as the programs to rehabilitate endangered species, create wildlife corridors, and develop community-owned tourism projects. Linger in the   Scottish Highlands , where a rewilding movement is aiming to restore the original landscape and native flora and fauna. In Slovenia , a longtime leader in sustainable tourism, set off on new gastrotourism biking routes that visit farms, vineyards, cheesemakers, and other food producers. Big Bend National Park   brings to life the frontier legend of Texas—but the landscape will also surprise you. In the Azores ,   applaud   award-winning sustainability programs that conserve the natural wonders of this volcanic archipelago known for whale watching and thermal springs.   ( Delve into our best destinations for nature lovers. )

Culture: Places where history and heritage rule

Visit King Tut’s new home in Egypt at Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum and see Luxor’s Avenue of the Sphinxes. Tap into the creative energy of Asia’s top film festival and sip craft beer in Busan, South Korea , the nation’s second largest city. Make a pilgrimage through history along Italy’s Appian Way , Europe’s ancient “superhighway.” Explore culture and history—with a side of Low Country cuisine—at the International African American Museum in Charleston, South Caroli na . See one of the world’s largest assemblages of stone statues at Longmen Grottoes , a UNESCO World Heritage site in Henan Province, China.   ( Here’s how to visit these Best of the World destinations .)

Family: Inspiring journeys for all ages

In Switzerland , ride the rails to quaint Alpine towns for chocolate, hiking, and skiing. Help save the turtles in Trinidad & Tobago , one of the most important leatherback turtle rookeries in the world. In San Francisco, California ,   gather around a campfire with Golden Gate views at Presidio Tunnel Tops and hike the urban Crosstown Trail.   Go birdwatching in the avian paradise that is Colombia , the enchanted land of Disney’s Encanto.   Visit the playing grounds of a storied soccer team in Manchester, England —and be inspired by the city’s art scene as well.   ( Explore more of these family-friendly destinations .)

Adventure: Adrenaline-pumping outdoor excursions  

Trek to Choquequirao, Peru ,   an isolated Inca site that’s under the radar—but soon to be more accessible. In New Zealand , the country that invented bungee jumping, rekindle your sense of adventure post-pandemic. Get your adrenaline rush in less visited areas of the popular adventure state of Utah . In Austria , hike the cross-country Bergsteigerdörfer network of mountaineering villages to sample local culture. Finally, add Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico , to your itinerary. Its protected waters, supported by National Geographic’s Pristine Seas initiative, hold one of the largest aggregations of sharks and manta rays in the world.   ( Dive deeper into these adventure trips. )

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