Australia’s wide-open spaces, tropical beaches, and Aboriginal culture draw tourists from all over the world. Yet, a visit to this huge country is not cheap.
The good news is, travelers can make it affordable with a few simple steps. Start with a low cost Australia vacation by planning your trip carefully and being smart about your expenses.
1. Airfare
Australia is known for its natural wonders, thriving arts scene and affordable food. With careful planning and choosing cost-effective ways of getting around, you can see Australia for less than 80 dollars a day.
Flights from the United States to Australia are expensive, but there are ways to save. By monitoring prices and booking 12 weeks in advance, you can find the cheapest flights. Using points or credit card rewards can also reduce the cost of airfare.
Buses are a cheap and convenient way to travel long distances in Australia. The national carrier Greyhound offers hop on/hop off passes for popular routes. In addition, several cities offer free inner city buses and shuttles. A popular option for budget travelers is Oz Experience which offers a variety of hop on/hop off passes depending on the length of the trip.
2. Accommodation
Generally speaking, accommodation is the biggest cost for travelers when they visit Australia. It costs 160 to 250 AUD per night for a private room in hostels and hotels.
If tourists want to save money on accommodation, they can camp, use Airbnbs, or stay with locals through Couchsurfing or WWOOFing. It’s also a good idea to cook as much as possible in order to reduce food costs. Alcohol is very expensive in Australia, so drinking less or drinking goon (boxed wine) can make a big difference to your budget.
If tourists are planning to travel during peak seasons, they should book their flights seven to 10 months in advance. This will ensure that they get the best price. They should also consider car sharing with other travelers using a site like Gumtree or Jayride.
3. Food
A visit to Australia is a once in a lifetime opportunity that can be enjoyed by all types of travelers. Whether you travel alone, as a couple or with the whole family, your trip will be memorable and exciting.
Food prices in Australia can be expensive, especially if you eat out every day. But don’t worry – it’s still possible to visit Australia on a budget.
You can save money by cooking your own meals, staying at hostels with kitchen facilities, and eating in restaurants that offer meal deals or discounts. Drinking bottled water is an option, but it’s also cheaper to bring your own water bottle and fill it up at local water fountains. If you’re going to be buying a lot of drinks, try to go for cheaper brands like Heineken or Budweiser.
4. Transportation
Australia is a large country, and airfare prices can be high. However, it’s possible to find budget fares if you plan ahead and shop around. You can also sign up for fare alerts on various flight search sites.
Many cities in Australia offer discount public transportation passes, such as Sydney’s Opal card, which provides discounts and caps on maximum daily or weekly fares. This can significantly cut down your transportation costs.
One of the best ways to save money on your trip is by using public buses to travel long distances. Australia’s bus network is extensive and offers a variety of options, including hop-on hop-off passes. Some bus lines even have free routes in the center of major cities. Similarly, you can use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to reduce your car rental costs.
5. Activities
Visiting Australia doesn’t have to be expensive. With a little careful planning, you can see all of the country’s highlights while staying within your budget.
Look for free attractions and tours. Many museums have admission discounts and some offer free entry on certain days or times. Similarly, public transit cards like Sydney’s Opal card allow you to save on cab fares.
Make the most of Mother Nature by exploring the country’s wild landscapes and spectacular waterfalls. Big-name travel spots like the Sydney harbor bridge and the Great Barrier Reef are also accessible for next to nothing. Look for discount packages and bundles that include accommodations, flights, and car rental to save even more. Then, indulge in a delicious meal at one of the country’s low-cost restaurants.