A sizable portion of Australia is desert, with the largest found in the famous outback. Rainforests dot the northeastern portion of the country, while the eastern and southeastern edge contain the Great Dividing Range that stretches 2,300 miles. With so much to explore, you run the risk of going over budget. But there are ways you can still backpack around Australia without spending too much. Here are ways to save money while backpacking Australia but still managing to have fun:
Backpacking Australia on a Budget: Opt for alternative forms of accommodation
Backpacking on a budget means letting go of certain comforts. Instead of booking a hotel, you can save more money by staying at a hostel. Australia is a big country and every town has a decent hostel you can spend the night.
Another option is to embrace nature. You’re already on a backpacking trip so why not sleep outdoor as well? Australia has many national parks, a lot of which have campsites that you can use for a small fee and in some cases, free of charge.
You can also rent a campervan for the entire duration of your trip so you both have a means of transport and a place to sleep at night. You can even buy some pots and pans to do your own cooking.
Backpacking Australia on a Budget: Go for pocket-friendly means of transportation
Australia is a huge country – it occupies an entire continent, really. Driving between destinations, especially cities that are states apart, can take a while. Flying will definitely get you there faster and you can save money by booking with a budget airline with domestic flights across the country.
While in Australia, learn to love public transport – that’s if you don’t decide on renting a car or buying one. Buses may be slow but when you’re on a budget, it is worth the hassle.
Backpacking Australia on a Budget: Forego the usual places to eat
It might be tempting to head into a restaurant for a meal, but if you fear ruining your budget, you can always cook your own food. Hostels usually have mutual kitchens that can be used for cooking. Camping also allows you to make your own food.
Making your own food is great, but where will you buy food? The local markets are your best bet. The daily or weekly farmers’ markets offer a range of fresh produce that allow you to cook your favourite meal even when on the road.
If all else fails, you can always go for food stalls which generally sell food cheaper compared to restaurants and cafes.
Backpacking Australia on a Budget: Take advantage of anything provided for free
You don’t always have to pay to enjoy the best of Australia. And the best way to learn about the country is to visit its many free museums. So when you’re in a town with a museum that is freely open to the public, don’t miss the opportunity to drop by and learn a thing or more about the country.
Backpacking Australia on a Budget: Employ money-saving tactics
A national park is a usual destination for an Australian backpacking trip. Since Australia has loads of them – with many of them iconic – the best way you can save money to visit more than one is to purchase a national park pass.
Communication is so important when on the road. You have to let family or friends know where you are so they don’t worry. Since overseas communication can be expensive, make use of free WiFi to use one of several communication apps. You can also get yourself a local SIM card in case you want to call someone local or ring up different establishments.
Backpacking Australia doesn’t have to be an expensive affair. With the tips provided above, you can still have fun while travelling on a budget.
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File an Australian Tax Return & Claim Back Your Tax When You Leave
Planning a working holiday in Australia? Or just returned from your great adventure of down under? If you worked in Australia once you leave the country, you’re entitled to claim this money back along with any superannuation you’re employer paid to the Australian Tax Office.