travelling around australia on your own

Solo travel in Australia: everything you need to know

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written by Shafik Meghji

updated 07.05.2021

Australia remains a classic travel destination. A steady stream of solo traveller gap-year backpackers, career breakers and round-the-world-trippers head down under to sample Sydney’s energetic nightlife, visit the Great Barrier Reef, marvel at Uluru , cuddle a koala and learn to surf.

The must-see destinations

Getting around.

• Where to stay

Where to eat (and drink)

How to meet people, appreciate being on your own.

The country is a great place for solo travellers, particularly first-timers – it’s friendly, fun and full of opportunities to meet people. Many travellers end up staying longer than they planned – and some never leave.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Australia, created by local experts

12 days  / from 2900 USD

Explore Western Australia from Perth to Broome

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

16 days  / from 3300 USD

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory

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

23 days  / from 4150 USD

Cross Western Australia to Darwin

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

Tailor-made trips for   Australia

One of the world’s great cities, Sydney is the ideal place to start your trip. As well as landmarks like the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach, it has a lively backpacker scene and eating, drinking and nightlife options to suit all budgets and tastes.

Cosmopolitan Melbourne is the country’s second-biggest city. As well as being a foodie and cultural hub, it has the country’s premier sports ground, the MCG – watching an Aussie Rules, rugby or cricket match here is an unforgettable experience.

Queensland is home to some of Australia’s most famous attractions: the Great Barrier Reef, the scenic Whitsundays , the beach resorts of the Gold Coast , and Fraser Island , which is covered with giant sand dunes.

© Uwe Aranas/Shutterstock

No trip is complete without a visit to Uluru (Ayers Rock), which lies in the centre of the country, deep in the Outback. Regardless of how many photos you’ve seen of “The Rock”, nothing prepares you for experiencing it first-hand.

It’s also well worth heading off the beaten track. For example, the temperate wilderness of Tasmania feels very different to the rest of the country, the tropical Northern Territory has some of the country’s best national parks, and South Australia offers great vineyards and a beautiful coastline.

Australia is the sixth largest country in the world – at almost 7.7 square kilometres it is 31.5 times bigger than the UK – and getting around takes time.

Most people fly between states, and competition means fares are pretty good value. For shorter journeys – or tighter budgets – Greyhound buses connect all the main tourist destinations.

Australia is also a great place to drive , enabling you to explore at your own pace and get off the tourist trail. Campervans are particularly economical, as they double up as accommodation. Vehicles are easy to hire, but if you’re travelling for several months it is often cheaper to buy a secondhand vehicle and then sell it on again at the end of your trip.

Hostels are great places to meet other backpackers, and most organise social activities – often for free – including barbecues and pub crawls. The YHA, which offers accommodation in everything from former prisons to historic mansions, is a good place to start.

Another option is a homestay, which provide the opportunity to meet locals and stay in a family environment.

Many people feel self-conscious about eating out (or going for a drink) on their own, but it’s increasingly common, especially in the cities.

Most hostels have a café, restaurant or bar where you won’t stand out as a solo diner and are likely to meet fellow travellers. More and more restaurants have communal tables, and food markets – such as Mindil Beach Sunset Market in Darwin and Adelaide Central Market – are sociable places to eat, too.

It’s also easy to strike up a conversation with a stranger in an Aussie pub (which, confusingly, are often called “hotels”).

Related articles from the blog

Working in Australia is a rite of passage and a great way to meet people, get under the skin of the country and fund your travels.

Twelve-month working holiday visas are available for 18 to 30-year-olds from most European countries (including the UK and Ireland), Canada, Japan and Korea. US citizens need to apply for a “work and holiday visa”. For more information, visit www.border.gov.au.

Officially, no job should last longer than six months, and most travellers end up working on farms or doing bar, construction and other casual work.

It may seem counter-intuitive, but you’re far more likely to meet new people if you’re travelling on your own, rather than in a couple or with friends. You’ve got an added incentive to break the ice and try out new things – and will also seem more approachable to the countless other solo travellers out there.

Taking part in group activities is another easy way to meet people. For example, you could climb Sydney Harbour Bridge , take a 4WD trip across the giant sand dunes of Fraser Island, go wine tasting in the Barossa Valley or spot dolphins on a Coral Coast cruise.

And Australians themselves are (generally) very sociable, welcoming and happy to talk to strangers.

Cape Range National Park, Ningaloo Marine Park © Darkydoors/Shutterstock

You will feel lonely and homesick at some point. But you’ll also never have as much freedom than when travelling on your own – you can go wherever you want, whenever you want and do whatever you want, without worrying about anyone else.

Some of Australia’s epic landscapes – sunset at Uluru, driving down the Great Ocean Road – are best appreciated alone.

And although it may sound cliched, you’ll learn a lot more about yourself when you travel on your own.

You will find plenty of ideas for your Australian solo trip in our guide to the best things to do in Australia .

Shafik Meghji co-authors The Rough Guide to Australia . He blogs at unmappedroutes.com .

Top image © GagliardiPhotography/Shutterstock

Shafik is an award-winning travel writer, journalist and co-author of more than 40 Rough Guides to destinations across Latin America, Asia, Oceania, Europe and North Africa. A regular contributor to the Rough Guide to Everywhere podcast, he writes and takes photos for BBC Travel, Wanderlust and Atlas Obscura, among others. His new book, Crossed Off The Map: Travels in Bolivia, will be published in late 2021. Follow him @shafikmeghji on Twitter and Instagram .

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Home » Oceania » Australia » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Australia | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Australia | Destinations & Tips for 2024

There is nothing that can make you feel as liberated and independent as traveling on your own. With dynamic cities, a remote outback, beautiful coastlines, and a bunch of cool backpackers to meet, Australia is one of the best countries to visit solo.

Travelling solo in Australia is super safe, it’s easy to get around, and there are plenty of adventures to be had. No wonder tons of gap year tourists and solo females choose to explore this massive island country. The only downside is that it isn’t the most affordable place to visit, but put in perspective, travelling Australia alone is well worth the price.

With an active outdoor lifestyle and a big beach scene, visiting Australia solo gives you the space for personal growth and development. Hostels make it easy to meet and make friends – and just about everyone speaks English here. Locals are friendly and funny, so you’ll never have an issue finding your way around!

If you are looking to travel the land down under on your own, here are my top recommendations of where to go, what to do, and how to prepare for your trip.

5 Things to Do in Australia When Traveling Solo

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With incredible natural scenery, including mountains, barrier reefs, and deserts, Australia embodies an outdoorsy and active culture. Whether you’re backpacking the East Coast or hitting up Western Australia, is a haven for solo travellers. Check out these five activities you can do on your own in Australia…

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1. Island Hop Through the Whitsunday Islands

If there is one natural attraction worthwhile visiting on your Australian solo travel adventure, it’s the Great Barrier Reef coastline. With 74 sandbanks and tropical islands, there’s no need to choose just one island in the Whitsundays to visit. 

Instead, joining a group island-hopping trip along this picturesque coastline is an incredible way to see this Great Barrier Reef region. (If you’re looking to snorkel the reef itself, Cairns is a better option).

Since most islands are protected as a national park, you must visit with a planned tour . From luxury yachts to paddle boats, there are ways to explore the Whitsundays for all budgets. 

2. Experience Australian History in the Red Center

The Red Center is the heart of old Australia. Set right in the middle of the country, this is an impressive landscape of deserts, mountains, rocky gorges, and some of the most sacred Aboriginal sites. The region isn’t overpopulated with tourists, purely because it’s challenging to get to.

Uluru and Kara Tjuta are two exceptional locations in the Outback worth visiting to gain a deeper understanding of the Aboriginal culture and heritage. Here, you can watch the colours of the rock change at sunset while listening to local string melodies on the didgeridoo.

3. Hang out at the hostels 

Look, solo travel in Australia is just as much about kicking back and enjoying the simple life with new amazing travel buddies as it is about seeing world-famous attractions. All my most fond memories here involve nothing more than sharing a box of goon and a couple of joints with strangers who become dear, dear mates.

4. Taste the Best Wine of Barossa Valley, Adelaide

Famous for being one of the world’s most significant wine-producing regions, Barossa Valley near Adelaide is home to over 150 wineries, as well as many of the world’s longest-continuously produced wine variants.

Aside from great wine, the region is one of the best Australian solo travel destinations , resembling a Tuscan dreamscape. Naturally, one of the best things to do here is to taste the famous wines, dine at exceptional establishments, and stroll through the lush vineyards. This is a great activity to enjoy solo, but also an easy way to meet other travellers and locals.

5. Take A Bike Tour Through the Mornington Peninsula, Melbourne

Located just south of the busy city of Melbourne, The Mornington Peninsula is a suburban landscape that blends seaside charm with lush vineyards. You’ll find golden beaches, vineyard-lined hills, and exciting forests here, with each landscape offering its own choice of adventure and activity. 

One of the best ways to experience the region is to join a bike tour through the peninsula. There are plenty of tours to join, stopping off at well-known restaurants, hot springs, and gorgeous beaches.

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Sometimes the best company is your own. Whether you prefer your own space or want to meet like-minded travellers, here is our pick of the best places to travel solo in Australia:

After visiting Melbourne , I can safely say it is my favourite city in Australia. With a considerable amount of buzzing neighbourhoods to explore, Melbourne is also one of Australia’s most popular cities. It has been called one of the most livable cities in the world, so it certainly is worth a visit to see what the hype is about. 

Melbourne is best known for its high-end food scene, Australia’s best coffee, and incredible art exhibitions and museums. It’s also the fashion capital of Australia, with streets lined with trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife.

You can’t say you’ve visited Melbourne without driving the Great Ocean Road. Expect an Aussie road trip packed with incredible scenery along this scenic drive, passing the famous surf spots of Torquay and Bells Beach, kangaroos hopping across golf courses, and the Twelve Apostle rock formations. Aside from renting a car, this activity won’t cost you a cent!

Selina Central Melbourne is an excellent example of Selina’s good reputation. Centrally located with a communal kitchen, bar, and co-working space, it’s the ideal budget city accommodation.

You just have to visit Byron Bay – Australia’s premier beach town. What was once a sleepy coastal town blossomed into a hippie centre in the ’60s. Today, it’s home to an eclectic mix of high-fashion socialites and laid-back surfers, with a patchwork offering of trendy bars, low-key restaurants, yoga studios, and incredible beaches.

The best thing to do when travelling solo in Australia’s Byron Bay is to enjoy time on the beach, typically packed with locals and visitors on any given day. When the sun sets, make your way to one of the town’s vibrant restaurants and enjoy a drink with new friends at a rooftop bar.

The town is by no means cheap, but there are ways to save money. Staying in budget accommodation is one of them. Naturally, the most affordable activities here involve spending time outdoors. Start by hiking the Cape Byron Walking Track and cycle to The Farm in Byron Bay.

The colourful community welcomes newcomers, and staying in a hostel here is the best way to find an in with the in-crowds. The Surf House is Byron Bays’ premier hostel. Just a few minutes from the Main Beach, the hostel has a rooftop bar and unique shared rooms perfect for solo travellers in Australia.

The heart of Australia’s active lifestyle, Cairns is a friendly town known for its incredible natural beauty. Set between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest (two listed UNESCO World Heritage Sites), backpack up to Cairns for the gateway of Tropical North Queensland with a subtropical climate. 

Again, the best (and most affordable) things to do here involve spending your time in nature. Rent some snorkelling gear and explore the underwater world of Ciarns, or take the more adrenaline-pumping alternative and jump 50 meters off Australia’s only bunjy jump. If you don’t want to do the jump, the platform alone offers some of the best views of the surrounding region.

The Daintree Rainforest, just an hour’s drive away, can be visited on a group tour or even when travelling Australia solo, and it is an exciting activity to uncover more about the ancient rainforest cultures.

As the day draws to a close, there’s no better place to grab a bite than at the Cairns Night Market, which has a lively atmosphere perfect for meeting locals and other travellers.

For the perfect combination of a relaxed and social atmosphere, Travellers Oasis Backpackers offers comfortable, safe, and clean accommodation for budget solo travellers.

Although the capital of Tasmania, Hobart is a small and historic city surrounded by nature. Best of all, this city is an incredible location for solo travellers, with tons of activities that are safe and fun to do alone.

Some of the best things to do in Hobart include taking a tour of Bruny Island, where delicious chocolate and cheese meet spectacular wildlife. Visiting the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, watching a performance at the Salamanca Arts Center, or admiring an art exhibition at Mona are musts for culture vultures. If you want a quick intro to the city’s major attractions, hop on a hop-on-hop-off bus.

Open yourself up to a social event at the Cascades Brewery, Australia’s oldest operating craft brewery. You never know; you might just meet a new friend willing to summit nearby Mount Wellington with you.

In the historic village of Battery Point, Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse is close to restaurants and markets. The locally owned hostel has a large shared kitchen, living room, and laundry facilities.

Adelaide is an Australian solo traveller’s paradise for a few reasons. It’s easily accessible, with a compact city centre that makes it easy to explore on foot. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy and a bunch of cool people to meet in Adelaide’s great hostels .

When it comes to natural scenery, Adelaide deserves an accolade. The capital city of South Australia is perfectly-positioned just a short drive from the iconic Outback. While possible to do alone, I recommend visiting the outback with a tour group or a new group of friends. This way, you can access off-the-beaten-track hikes and trails and explore million-year-old mountains more confidently.

Adelaide is also known for its stretched-out coastline, overflowing with abundant sealife that feeds the country’s high-end seafood scene. The city is also the host of many sporting events and festivals. If you’ve always wanted to lay eyes on a koala bear, plenty of these cuddly creatures call the Adelaide Hills home.

Adelaide Central YHA is one of the best backpackers in the city. With newly renovated rooms, free Wi-Fi, and other modern facilities, it offers safe, clean, and friendly budget accommodations for solo travellers.

• Hostelworld: The best app for searching and booking hostels and backpackers
• Booking.com and Airbnb : Great for finding hotel and bed and breakfast accommodation
• PackPoint : A helpful app to help you make sure you pack all the necessities for your trip
• Couchsurfer : Suitable for budget travellers but not recommended for solo female travellers in Australia
• Viator and Get Your Guide : Useful for browsing and booking tours and day trips
• Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble : Designed to meet and socialize with others in your vicinity
• Trail Wallet : A great way to stick to your budget when travelling in an expensive country
• Backpackr : A social media app designed for meeting travellers nearby
• WhatsApp Messenger : The leading messaging app used by most locals in Australia
• Holafly : An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card

It’s also a good idea to join local Facebook groups designed for travellers or ex-pats in Australia. Groups like ‘ Melbourne Meetups,’ ‘Traveling Tasmania, ’ and ‘ Australia Backpackers’ are some of the most popular.

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Unlike many other destinations, your most significant safety concerns as a tourist in Australia are the unfriendly wild animals, as opposed to crime. That said, any big city poses a risk of petty theft and unwelcome crime, so vigilance is essential. 

Watch your belongings at all times, especially in crowded places or where you might be distracted. When you go out at night, always keep an eye on your drinks, especially if you are a solo female traveller in Australia. Although spiked drinks are uncommon here, you can never rule out risk.

I always share my live location with family and friends back home, as well as with a new friend I trust in the city I am visiting. I also recommend staying in a female-only dorm if you are travelling solo as a female-identifying person.

Steer clear of unfriendly animals in the outback while hiking or at the beach. There are a few dangerous animals to keep an eye out for. I’m talking about box jellyfish, snakes, spiders, sharks, crocodiles, and even octopuses.

Lastly, use all the sun protection . The sun is powerful in the land down under, and sunstroke can put a real damper on a great adventure.

• Staying in hostels is the easiest way to make friends in any new place. Many of the best hostels in Australia even have bars and organize daily group activities. The perfect combo between a villa and a hostel, Stoke Beach House is one of Sydney’s premier surf hostels.
• Plan some booked adventures or tours . Even if group tours aren’t your thing, I advise booking a few activities in advance. Not only are these a great way to meet other travellers, but they offer a different perspective of a location. This Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Course is an excellent example of a tour that could be booked out fast!
• Take advantage of freebies . Travelling solo in Australia can get expensive – fast. Check social media groups to find free events in the area you visit. Most big cities offer free cultural days where you can visit different museums, castles, and historic homes at no cost.
• Keep some flexibility in your itinerary . While booking some pre-planned activities is a good idea, keeping your plans flexible is essential. When you meet the right people, you’ll want to chop and change your itinerary and the places you visit.
• Plan your own trip – it’s your Australian backpacking adventure . Template itineraries found on the internet can be helpful for research, but I recommend that you plan your own trip according to the activities you most enjoy.
• Use public transport . Australian cities have some of the world’s most efficient and affordable public transport systems. Take advantage of this service and save costs on Uber and taxis, which are a sure way to blow through your budget super fast.
• Be social , but appreciate spending time on your own. Travelling alone can be lonely, but it is also so rewarding. Be friendly with others in your hostel and tour groups, but also remember to be satisfied spending time alone.
• One of the best tips for solo travel in Australia is to visit during the right time of year . September to November and March through May are the best times to visit the country. These months fall between seasons, meaning you’ll skip the crowds while taking advantage of lower prices before tourist season begins.
• Get good travel insurance . I can’t stress this enough. Although the country is safe regarding crime, Australia is home to its fair share of dangerous animals. Make sure you have insurance that covers things like snake bites and jellyfish stings.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

• Use social media : Facebook groups advertise different events you can attend to meet new friends. Dating apps are another way to meet people. Most apps can be switched from dating to friendship, making it easy to find people with similar interests within your vicinity.
• Stay in a hostel : When choosing where to stay in Australia , opting for a hostel is one of the best ways to meet new people. Especially if you stay in a shared room, it’s hard not to make friends when sharing accommodation with others. 
• Attend cultural events : Besides tours, joining other cultural activities, including cooking courses and cultural immersion experiences, is another excellent way to meet others while travelling solo.
• Keep an open mind and be confident and friendly : Make sure you keep an open mind about meeting new people. Be available when others need advice or directions or want photos taken, and remain approachable by being friendly and welcoming.
• Join group tours : Whether you join a tour hosted by your hostel or an independent tour guide, group tours and activities are one of the best ways to meet others while abroad . Chances are those joining the same trip will have similar interests to yours!
• Join a gym or sports team : Short-term memberships at sports clubs, gyms, or co-working spaces are an excellent way for solo travellers in Australia to meet other travellers.
• Join a pub crawl : Often organized by hostels or youth organizations, pub crawls (or other social events) make it easy to visit new areas of the city while meeting new friends in a casual social environment.
• Volunteer : Volunteering in Australia with a local organization is not only a great way to give back, but it is also great for meeting others with similar humanitarian interests as your own.

Australia was an absolutely mental place to visit alone. It was the first solo trip I took that kick-started my deep passion for self-exploration through global exploration.

The country is an outdoor lovers’ paradise, and there is nothing more liberating and character-building than travelling solo. Put these two together, and we have ourselves a winning location for solo travellers. With an incredible outdoorsy scene, incredible natural beauty, dynamic and safe cities, and plenty of budget accommodations available, solo travellers in Australia could spend their days learning to surf in Byron Bay and evenings dancing the night away with new friends. 

With cultural influences from Aborinonals and British settlers, as well as other island nations, Australia has a unique history and cultural scene. The country is most famous for its natural wonders and wide open spaces, including ‘The Outback’ and ‘The Bush.’ But it’s also famous for its metropolitan centres, with four mega-cities; Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.

Massive and varied, the country truly has something to offer every traveller. Whether you enjoy spending your time lounging on beautiful beaches, tasting incredible food, or adventuring into the unknown Outback, you’re guaranteed to have an exciting time travelling solo in Australia.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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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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A complete guide to solo travel in Australia

Updated On 23rd February, 2024

Solo travel in Australia is a dream on many peoples bucket lists and well, it is not hard to see why,

Maybe it’s the tropical climates, the wildlife, the laid-back beachy lifestyle, the epic road trips or the backpacker goals lifestyle that has you dreaming of a trip down under, or maybe it’s a combination of them all?

Whatever it is, if you’re looking for a guide to solo travel in Australia, look no further. I got you!

I’ve solo travelled through Australia on 4 (fortunate) occasions now and so in this travel guide, I am going to share with you all the tips, tricks and knowledge I have from my solo travel in Australia.

Get your pen and paper at the ready, by the end of this post you will have all the inspiration ready to book your solo trip to Australia.  You will not regret it!

Other blog posts/guides you may find useful:

• Australia Travel Guide
• Farm work in Australia: Finding a job, top tips and advice
• Visiting Fraser Island and The Whitsundays: Australia on a backpacker budget
• A guide to freedom camping on the east coast of Australia
• Hiring a camper van in Australia and New Zealand: Your questions answered
• A complete guide to budgeting for backpacking Australia
• 13 ways to save money whilst backpacking Australia

My complete guide to solo travel in Australia…

Whether you are planning a 3-week solo trip, a couple of months travelling or even a whole year on a  Working Holiday Visa , Australia is a world-class location to do all three in. I don’t even know where to start luring you in with adventures I’ve been on here; I’ve had  so many  incredible ones. Here are a few blog posts to get you started…

• The best things to do in Australia
• Cairns to Sydney: The alternative East Coast Australia bucket list

It’s in Australia that you’ll be able to sail the beautiful  Whitsunday Islands , snorkel or scuba dive on the  Great Barrier Reef , explore  Fraser Island ,  Skydive , hang out in  Sydney  or  Melbourne  and of course visit the ultimate surf town of  Byron Bay…  and you can do it all solo!

Solo travel in Australia is so easy, particularly when compared to other countries so don’t worry about meeting people, being on your own or not having people to travel with. Australia is a haven for solo travellers. I’d say its one of my top 3 recommendations for a first-time solo traveller.

For the ultimate East Coast Australia bucket list,  check out this post.

For an alternative East Coast Australia bucket list,  check out this post.

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Is solo travelling popular in Australia?

The answer is a massive  YES .

If you’re part of the Global Travellers Facebook group ( join here ), you’ll see that the majority of the conversations about Australia are all about solo travel and even arranging meet-ups. There are SO many people doing it and there’s so many of you in the same boat – it’s just about putting yourself in the right places to find eachother.  I got you!

I’m sure many will vouch for me when I say,  ‘the moment you arrive in Australia, you realise how easy it is to navigate solo’.

I get it though, it’s a daunting thought going it alone and so it might seem super tempting to join, say a 30-day organised group tour instead. Group tours have their place in Australia for sure and if you really need to ease yourself in with an ‘intro’ one – by all means rock it. However you can end up paying  a lot  for these tours and then wishing you’d been smarter with your pennies.

Instead, I’d recommend simply booking small bits of your trips separately, e.g. transport, hostels and some of the main tours. All of the latter are all set up in a way that allows for backpackers to be spontaneous if they want. Then step out of your comfort zone, take a leap of faith and go solo travelling in Australia!

If you change your mind, you can always book onto a group tour when you’re there but… I believe in you!

Don’t forget!  My good friend Sammy owns  RatPack Travel  (a discounted booking platform for Australia and New Zealand Travels). They can help you…

– find the best prices and options for transport, trips and tours around the all the key destinations in Australia – create a personalized travel calendar with recommendations for your trip – answer any questions you may have – have an incredible time!

Click here  to send  RatPack  a WhatsApp message ( +61 490 149 348 ) and to get the ball rolling.

Don’t forget you can use my code  MOLLIE10  for  10% off  any trip or transport booking you make.

How do I meet people in Australia?

Sometimes you’re just in the right place at the right time but sometimes just have to get out of your comfort zone and simply say hello.

All of the hostels are totally geared up for solo travellers. The best way to meet people in hostels is at the organised events, in your room (choose a larger mixed dorm to meet people!), or in the common areas. If there’s a BBQ or a beer pong tournament, join in, and I am sure you’ll not only have a great time, but you’ll also meet awesome people. The best tip I can give you is to just  smile and say hello  or even compliment someone on how good their food smells if you’re in the kitchen.

It’s worth remembering that you’re all in the same boat; chances are other solo travellers are feeling just as nervous as you are. Be the one to make the first move (not in a creepy way haha).

Typically solo travellers and travellers in general coming to Australia will travel the east coast from Sydney to Cairns (or vice versa).  This is the most popular route to take.  So whether your travel dates tie in with new found friends or not, it’s not uncommon to bump into people several times along the coast! You become like one big family.

If you know your dates or locations, pop a message on the  Global Travellers Facebook group  and I have no doubt you’ll find a travel buddy to meet up with!

Worried about making friends while you’re solo travelling?  Here are all my top tips!

If you’ve never stayed in a hostel before,  click here for my hostel top tips and hostel packing essentials!

Should I go on group tours and experiences when I solo travel in Australia?

Absolutely! Like I said before… group tours definitely have their place in Australia.

For example when it comes to the likes of the  Whitsundays  or  Fraser Island  – group tours are second to none. 3 days with a group of backpackers in  amazing locations, full of fun and incredible experiences  is definitely going to bond you. You might even find you’ll be travelling in the same direction as others following the trip and  you’ll have a new travel buddy ! 

Some of my favourite memories and bonds have been on these group tours in Australia. I’d definitely say get a Whitsundays group tour and Fraser Island group tour on your Australia bucket list.

Booking the Whitsundays:

The  Whitsundays sailing  tours leave from Airlie Beach and, depending on which boat you’ll choose, you’ll find yourself with a group of travellers from all over the world in a similar age range. The day times will be full of sailing, exploring beaches, snorkelling and the evenings are full of fun and drinks under the stars. You’ll be sharing large cabins with other backpackers on the tour as well as spending every day together, you’ll have  instant friends  and… people to help you get THE perfect shot!

See my guide to booking the best Whitsundays boat for you  here.

Don’t forget you can use my code MOLLIE10 for  10% off  any trip or transport booking you make with  RatPack Travel .

Booking Fraser Island:

Oh, Fraser Island.  If you go on one of the 4WD Tag Along tours, you’ll be in convoy of 4 jeeps with 7 people in each 4WDs. Road trip goals. Have an epic road trip playlist ready that includes some classic singalongs! Over the 3 days, you’ll be driving on beach highways, swimming in freshwater lakes and camping under the stars .  Just like the Whitsundays, you’ll share accommodation, transport and spend every day with the group. It’s the perfect way to meet other backpackers who also love to explore. 

See my guide to booking the best Fraser Island trip for you here.

See my solo travel vs. booking onto group tours blog post here if you still can’t decide which route to take.

Is solo travel in Australia safe?

I’ve always felt very safe in Australia when I’ve been travelling. The people here are kind and the cities are safe. Obviously, just like anywhere you travel, always have your wits about you and don’t put yourself in any situations that you wouldn’t at home. As a rule of thumb, I keep in touch with my family when I’m travelling and make sure I have data and battery on my phone (a power bank is really useful to travel with!)

Check out  my top tips for solo travel as a female in this blog post.

See my top tips for staying safe when travelling solo  here.

How do I get around Australia?

I travelled by bus the first time I travelled around Australia. It was so easy and convenient, and every bus was full of backpackers sharing stories and tips. I got the  Greyhound Hop on Hop off  bus pass which basically allowed me to travel from Sydney to Cairns on any Greyhound bus and stopped off at all the destinations I wanted to visit, it’s  definitely a way of travelling I’d recommend for a solo traveller .

Another thing to remember is that domestic flights in Australia are super cheap, so if you are on a short timeframe check out  Skyscanner  or  Jetstar  for flights.

If you prefer a bit of freedom, why not book a campervan through RatPack and road trip it!? I hired one from Sammy at RatPack when I did a  5-day Great Ocean Road road trip.

• See my guide to planning your transport in Australia here.
• Check out my guide to Greyhound buses in Australia here.
• If you want to find out more about hiring a camper in Australia, click here.

If you opt for the Greyhound bus pass, instead of booking direct,  click here  and use the code  MOLLIE10  for 10% off the direct rate with RatPack Travel. You can also use the discount for campers!

How much of my trip to Australia should I plan?

As a solo traveller, I always like to have a rough idea of where I’m going and what I’m doing. For Australia the choice is yours however I’d say it’s  pretty essential to pre-plan your trip if you are going in the peak season (November – February).  The popular trips trips get booked up around 3-4 weeks in advance during peak time. With everything else you can be super flexible with and keep it spontaneous.

What happens if things go wrong?

Whether you are travelling solo or with friends, there is always scope for plans to change or things to go ‘wrong’. The first thing to do is to not panic; there’s always a solution! It’s pretty normal when travelling to be faced with a few hurdles, be it weather affecting your plans, suddenly feeling lonely or needing to go and see a doctor.  See my advice for feeling homesick when travelling here.

Medically, if you need to see a doctor urgently, the emergency number is  000.  Save it to your phone! Find hospitals near you  here . If you need to see a GP for something less urgent, most are open Monday-Friday 9-5, but you’ll need to book an appointment (it’ll cost 50-70 AUD). Make sure you get  travel insurance  – medical bills in Australia add up  really  quickly!

If you ever feel lonely,  don’t forget  that your family and friends are a quick WhatsApp or FaceTime away. The best way to overcome loneliness is to put yourself out there and socialise at the hostel events or common areas or join a tour with other backpackers. Don’t be scared though; feeling nervous before travelling is normal. Getting out of your comfort zone is one of the best things you can do.  Get the flight booked and let the adventure begin…

The weather can’t be controlled, but try and check the forecast regularly before you make concrete plans, and if the weather calls off an activity you really wanted to do, embrace the storm and do that activity another day!

Top tip :  RatPack Travel  are the only agent that offers 100% full refund on any cancelled trips due to weather. RatPack knows that travelling sometimes isn’t perfect so if a big old storm rolls in and cancels your trip, you can expect all your money back.

CLICK HERE TO WHATSAPP RATPACK TRAVEL NOW (+61 490 149 348)

Looking for more top tips for solo travel in Australia?

Check out my video below, or my complete guide to  budgeting for backpacking through Australia here !

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

Have you solo travelled in Australia?

What are your top tips? I’d love to know about your experience!

Love as always + happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

Pin and save this blog post for later…

IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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Solo Travel in Australia | How to Travel Solo Safely and on a Budget!

by Ashleigh Page Last Updated: Jun 25, 2023 Australia , Solo Travel

Page Contents

How to Travel Solo in Australia Safely and on a Budget

Solo travelling in australia .

Australia is a destination recognised across the world, thanks to its vibrant coral reefs, sweeping outback landscapes and bustling metropolitan centres, which is why it’s one of the most visited backpacking destinations in the world.

Despite travel restrictions, around   half a million backpackers visited Australia   in 2020 alone, and with backpackers accounting for around  1 3% of tourism spending in the country , the country is primed for those travelling solo in Australia.

With thousands of exceptional sites, dozens of sandy-beached cities and countless unique hostels to meet other like-minded travellers at, solo travel through Australia can be a life-changing experience.

• Adventure Travel Destinations in Australia

Travelling Solo in Australia Safely

Undertaking any travelling experience can often be a daunting prospect for many, let alone travelling on your own, which is why we have put together some of the best advice on travelling solo in Australia safely.

Is Australia Safe to Travel on Your Own?

Australia in general is a very safe country, with a stable political system and a low crime rate , with 2020  seeing a decrease in general crime . 

The country is perfect for backpackers with well-established travel hostels that provide useful information on tours and more.

Australia’s highly regulated hostel system and strongly inter-connected transport network make it easy for travellers to reach the many beautiful sites and cities.

To help you get the most out of exploring the land down under we have provided some of the best tips and tricks for travelling solo safely in Australia

Our Top Safety Tips when Travelling Solo in Australia

1) swimming at beaches.

Australia is well known for its many fantastic beaches, including the famous Bondi Beach and the lesser known Misery beach which was voted “ Australia’s Best Beach” in 2022.

A day spent lounging on the country’s sandy shores is a must for most travellers. But, there are some rare dangers found under the waters of Australia’s ocean that you would do well to keep in mind.

To stay safe, you should remember to practice good beach safety by  avoiding swimming at beaches that are known for dangerous rips (rip-tides) or overpowering waves.

It is also recommended that you never swim alone at night or at beaches that don’t have lifeguards.

2) Marine Wildlife

Marine animals, such as jellyfish ( also known locally as “stingers” ), are common in Australian waters and can cause pain or reactions when touched.

Sharks, including bull and tiger sharks, are also sighted in the waters. Although they can be encountered at any time of the year, their peak season is between November and April.

Don’t let this scare you though.

I’ve lived in Australia for over 30 years and have never seen a shark in the ocean, or been stung by a blue bottle jelly fish.

*Touch wood*

And as you travel around, you will usually spot signs at the beach that alert you of any dangers – whether it be wildlife, rips or other things to consider when swimming in the area.

• What to do if you get stung by a blue bottle jellyfish

One of the most common stingers found washed up on Australian beaches is the bluebottle jellyfish, a type of invertebrate which is easily identified by its long blue tentacles and blue balloon bag.

While less dangerous than the rarer box jellyfish , if the tentacles of a blue bottle touch your skin, they can cause pain, irritation and sometimes a skin rash on the contact point.

If you are stung by a blue bottle, ensure to brush the tentacles off first and flush the area with hot but not boiling water. After that, you may find some relief by applying a cortisone cream.

If the pain is not relieved, or there are signs of an allergic reaction, you should seek medical assistance at the lifeguard booth (if there is one), a pharmacy or local medical clinic.

3) Other Wildlife

Yes, Australia is renowned globally for its diversity of wildlife – from enormous spiders, snakes and crocodiles to adorable wallabies, koalas and echidnas.

Australia does tend to have the reputation of containing all the animals that want to kill you. But as a local, I swear it’s not that bad!

Like anywhere in the world, wild animals should always be respected and in many cases, observed from a distance.

For example, kangaroos and wombats can often be quite aggressive of their territory, and their claws can create a lot of damage.

If you’re exploring the waterways of Queensland or the Northern Territory, you should be very careful of crocodile-infested waters and always keep an eye out for informative “Beware” signs in these areas.

4) Driving Solo in Australia

In Australia, driving is pretty straightforward.

In most areas, we have well-maintained roads, strict driving laws and enforced speed limits.

You will want to ensure that you stay on the left side of the road and keep aware of speed signs. Given the maximum speed limits change regularly, it can be easy to get a speeding fine, especially in the cities.

If you’re adventuring on a long road trip, ensure to take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.

On most regional and country roads, there are zones where you can stop for a quick power nap if you need it.It’s always better to have a quick nap as opposed to running off the road due to being over-tired.

You’d think this one is obvious, but it happens a lot. So, please be careful!

It’s also wise to keep an eye out for crossing wildlife when driving in rural areas, especially at dawn, dusk or late at night. Especially due to the reduced visibility and increase in the number of animals crossing the road.

Related articles:

• Tasmania Road Trip: What to See in Tasmania in 10 Days (Easy Self-Drive Itinerary)
• Esperance Great Ocean Drive Guide | The Top 10 Sites to Explore!
• How Long Does it Take to Drive Around Tasmania? (An Easy Guide for First-Timers)

5) Summer Months

Summer months in Australia can often reach extreme temperatures, especially when you head further inland. The strength of the UV rays can also be dynamite.

There are some smart safety tips you can follow to ensure you don’t come away from your solo travel adventure sunburnt to a crisp.

Firstly, in the hotter regions, make sure to wear sunscreen and always stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

It’s also wise to carry some hydrating sachets in your first aid travel pack to help keep your electrolytes well topped up when the sun is blazing down.

Try to avoid spending too much time in direct sun during the hottest time of the day, usually mid and early afternoon.

How to Save Money When Travelling Australia on a Budget

Solo travel in Australia can often be expensive, especially when compared other nearby destinations like South-East Asia.

But, solo travellers can still get to see a large chunk of Australia’s landscape, even when on the tightest of budgets.

To help you get the best bang for your Aussie buck, we’ve provided some of our top tips and advice for saving money when travel solo in Australia.

Related Articles:

• How to Create a Travel Budget

Cheap Accommodation

The best way by far to save money when solo travelling in Australia is to use alternate accommodation, with a focus on hostels and Airbnb.

Thanks to the plethora of apps now available, you can easily find affordable accommodation from the moment you touch down in Australia.

Couch-surfing can also be a fantastic way to solo travel in Australia.

It not only helps to cut costs, but also allows you to experience the nation from the perspective of a local and make some friends along the way.

Another way to save money, especially when heading out of the city, is to stay at one of Australia’s many camping spots.

Campsites in Australis can provide a memorable space to stay, for a fraction of the cost.

•   Accommodation in Tasmania Hobart | 17 Epic Places to Stay in Hobart CBD!
• 11 Stunning Farm Stays & Farm Accommodation with Animals in Victoria 

Cheap Flights 

Due to the significant distance between cities in Australia, domestic flights are frequent and relatively cheap, especially when booked in advance.

You can use apps like  Google Flights, Skyscanner  and  Hopper  to find budget flights to your solo travel destinations for the best prices possible.

Also make sure to practice smart booking choices, like taking flights on off-peak days such as Wednesdays or Saturdays.

Cheap Adventures / Experiences

Discovering some of Australia’s most impressive sites and cities is easy thanks to a variety of tourism-focused initiatives, including free walking tours in cities like Melbourne and Sydney.

You can also easily learn about the history of Australia by taking advantage of free entry to a variety of museums, including Sydney’s historic Australian Museum or Melbourne’s National Gallery.

You can also easily find a lot of discounted experiences online by visiting coupon sites , which allow you to experience wine valley trips, boat tours and more for a fraction of the price!

Some of these include:

• Tripadvisor
• Get Your Guide

Finally, you can enjoy countless city parks, hiking routes and more for absolutely nothing, as well as explore dozens of national parks that cover thousands of miles of Australia.

• Indoor Activities in Melbourne | 10 Best Things to Do When It’s a Rainy Day 
• 10 Best Things to do in the Blue Mountains in One Day

Food and Drinks

Dining out in Australia can be pretty expensive, but you can often find some cheaper alternatives. However it does depend on the places you visit, with most basic meals costing between $15 and $20 AUD.

An easy way to save money on food is to enjoy more home-cooked meals, rather than eating out all the time. Even buying food from local markets can help you to save some coin.

Best Ways to Get Around Australia

Due to its size, travelling in Australia can sometimes be a challenge for solo travellers, with a lot of choices involved.

To help you travel smarter, we’ve listed some of the best options below.

Self-drive vs Group Tours

Due to the vastness of the Australian outback and the distance between its cities, many solo travellers chose to self-drive or take a group tour out to sites l ike the famous Uluru.

Group tours are often considered the more expensive option but often come with benefits like lunch included in the price.

While self-driving gives you the flexibility to travel on your own schedule, it is important to be aware of the distances between destinations and ensure enough time to get between them (within daylight hours).

Also, keep in mind the cost of fuel and budget accordingly.

If driving in a remote or rural area, it can be a good idea to pack an additional carton / bottle of fuel, just in case. Especially given the likelihood of limited petrol stations on remote routes.

It is also wise to pack lots of water, food and car part supplies (eg. spare tyres) when you travel alone in Australia’s outback regions, due to the remoteness of any other settlements.

Public Transport

The public transport network of Australia is well developed, clean and affordable in coastal regions.

If travelling solo, you can usually access train, tram, bus and ferry connections between most cities, and make use of pre-paid travel cards.

You can also take advantage of city-specific public transport apps that provide live tracking information on transport links throughout the cities.

For example:

• Public Transport VIctoria 
• Public Transport NSW
• Public Transport Adelaide
• Public Transport Perth
• Public Transport Queensland
• Public Transport Tasmania

Budget Airlines 

Due to the immense distances between cities like Melbourne and Perth, budget airlines are one of the best options to save time when travelling in Australia, with airlines like  JetStar  offering trips for as little as $250 AUD.

While this is much more expensive than taking a bus route, solo travellers can save days at a time by using budget airlines.

Best Places to Travel Solo in Australia

Every state in  Australia  offers a unique plethora of sights, activities and experiences for solo travellers to encounter.

To help you maximise your solo travel in Australia, we have put together a list of the top 3 sites for each of Australia’s states.

1) Queensland

Australia’s North-Eastern state is one of its most visited destinations thanks to the plethora of sites on offer for solo travellers.

Consisting of 7000km of coastline, idyllic beaches and marine parks, Queensland a must-see destination for anyone visiting Australia.

Here are some of the top attractions in Queensland to check out:

• The Great Barrier Reef  – The world’s largest coral reef is a UNESCO heritage site consisting of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. Home to hundreds of marine species, it is one of the most breath-taking marine locations in the entire world.
• Brisbane   – Brisbane is a capital of art and culture, with a thriving nightlife scene to match. Make sure to visit the beautiful Brisbane Botanical Gardens which overlooks the city on the towering Mount Coot-tha.
• The Sunshine Coast  – The Sunshine Coast stretches along the coast and encompasses beach resorts, surf spots and rural hinterland. Here you can explore colourful beach towns, sand dunes, mangrove forests, and idyllic lakes.

Click here to learn more about Queensland

2) Victoria

Australia’s most southern mainland state is one of the most biodiverse regions of the world. Here you can enjoy truly magnificent natural landscapes. It is also known for its superior food and wine culture.

Here are some of the top attractions in Victoria to check out:

• The Great Ocean Road  – Stretching along winding cliff fronts, past towering ocean-carved monoliths, the Great Ocean Road is considered a national heritage sight. A 240-kilometre stretch of road along the south eastern coast of Australia, connecting the picturesque cities of Torquay and Allansford.
• Melbourne CBD   – A cosmopolitan metropolis, Melbourne is a vibrant city with beautiful greenways, colourful graffitied alleyways and enthusiastic cafe culture. It is also known for its quality wine, dining and entertainment precincts. You will never be bored in Melbourne.
• The Twelve Apostles   – A collection of limestone stacks found off the shore of Port Campbell National Park, the Twelve Apostles cut a dramatic scene on the Australian coastline.

Click here to learn more about Victoria

3) New South Wales

By far the most iconic state in all of Australia, New South Wales is home to the impressive city of Sydney, sandy beaches and dramatic rows of vineyards.

Here are some of the top attractions in New South Wales to check out:

• Sydney Opera House –  An iconic symbol of Australia, the Sydney Opera House sits dramatically on the harbour front and is a must-see for any visitor to Australia.
• Hunter Valley Wine Region   –  Explore acres of beautiful vineyards and savour some of Australia’s finest wines while discovering the breath-taking beauty of the Hunter Valley region.
• Blue Mountain State Park   –  A landscaped defined by towering misted peaks, lined with dense forests of eucalyptus trees. Visiting this region will have you standing in awe of untold lockouts, waterfalls and more.
• Oh, and you can’t forget the infamous Bondi Beach.

Click here to learn more about New South Wales

4) South Australia 

South Australia is a state defined by true parallels, with striking outback landscapes to its north and lush coastal valleys to its south.

Here are some of the top attractions in South Australia to check out:

• Adelaide  –  A scenic city with stunning architecture, historic art culture and one of the best indoor food markets in the world. Exploring Adelaide is a must for all solo travellers in Australia.
• Kangaroo Island  –  A beautiful island set off the coast of Australia. Much of Kangaroo Island is a nature reserve dedicated to the protection of native wilderness like sea lions, koalas and of course, the kangaroo!
• Barossa Valley  –  Another of Australia’s iconic wine valleys, solo travellers can spend hours exploring the countless wineries, vineyards and towns that this idyllic landscape has to offer.

Click here to learn more about South Australia

4) Western Australia

For those travelling solo in Australia, the western half of the country is a natural haven unlike any other.

Western Australia is Australia’s largest state and consists mostly of wild outback, incredible coastlines, unique rock formations and of course, the city of Perth – which is a metropolitan beacon in the west.

Here are some of the top attractions in Western Australia to check out:

• Ningaloo Reef   – Australia’s second barrier reef, this marine wonder offers travellers the chance to swim with the mighty whale shark amongst a colourful coral forest. You can even swim with manta rays in some areas which is pretty cool.
• Perth   –   An adventure lover’s paradise, Perth offers countless activities for solo travellers including island hopping, dune riding and more. Perth is a super chill city – it feels like a big beach town.
• Explore Coral Bay  –  By far one of Australia’s most picturesque coastal towns, here you can relax on pristine beaches or indulge with some freshly caught seafood.

Click here to learn more about Western Australia

5) Tasmania

Australia’s largest island, Tasmania is a trip unlike any other, with 40% of the island consisting of protected landscapes and national parks.

Tasmania is an incredible destination for adventure travellers and outdoor enthusiasts, with such a wide range of adventure sports and hiking opportunities available.

Here are some of the top attractions in Tasmania to check out:

• Explore Australia’s wild side –  With countless miles of rainforest, scenic lakes and unlimited vistas, Tasmania is by far one of the most diverse natural landscapes in Australia.
• Tamar Valley Wine Region –  A unique wine region, Tamar Valley is filled with pristine hiking trails, set amongst acres of winding grape vines. And, you can stop for a cheeky wine while you’re at it.
• Hobart –  Tasmania’s capital, Hobart is Australia’s second oldest settlement and is filled with colonial buildings, historic sites and boutique market squares.

This is a must visit destination if planning a trip to Tasmania.

Click here to learn more about Tasmania

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary

Given the vast size of the country and the incredible amount things to do, those travelling solo in Australia can often find planning an itinerary daunting.

And with so much distance to cover and every destination holding a countless list of unique activities, covering it all can seem impossible. That’s why we think the best way to travel Australia is to break it down into sections.

Plot your route first, list out your must-see sites and break them down by state. This will allow you to plan your itinerary accordingly.

If you’re struggling to narrow down your itinerary choices for each state, don’t worry.

Below we have included some of our top tips for first-time travellers in Australia when road tripping around Australia.

Solo Road Trips in Australia for People on a Budget

Given the breath-taking scenery along the coastline, people travelling solo in Australia often chose to explore this breath-taking country on the road by hiring a car.

To help you find the most iconic stretches of highway in all of Australia, we have put together a list of some of Australia’s best road-trip routes.

1) Victoria

• The Great Ocean Road  – Stretching over 243 kilometres along Victoria’s southern coast, on this route, you’ll get to explore the impressive surf and shipwreck coast while also discovering some of Australia’s most notable landmarks.

2) Tasmania

• 10-day Tasmania Self-drive   – On this easy-to-do 10-day self-drive, you will be able to easily explore stunning national parks, historic penal towns and various attractions of Tasmania.

3) Western Australia

• Perth to Broome Road Trip  – Western Australia’s immense and winding coastline provides some of the world’s best coastal views. This is definitely something you can look forward to when driving Perth to Broome route. You will have the chance to explore scenic coastal towns, beautiful outback scenery and more during this unforgettable journey.
• Perth to Esperance – Travel along an adventure-studded route on this fantastic road-trip that takes you from the state’s bustling capital to the hidden paradise of Bremer Bay and beyond!
• Esperance Great Ocean Drive  – With sparkling white sand beaches splashed by turquoise oceans, the Esperance great ocean drive provides you with access to some of the most pristine swaths of coastal beauty.

Solo Travel in Australia | How to Travel Solo in Australia Safely and on a Budget

Australia is truly a land like no other.

It provides solo travellers with access to life-changing views, vibrant cities and countless activities.

Thanks to its unique sites, diverse range of hostels, extensive public transport network and some of the best natural wonders in the world, Australia is the perfect solo destination.

With a tourism industry primed for solo travel in Australia, you will be able to make friends, discover wonders and explore the land down under no matter your budget or itinerary.

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Party of One: How to Plan a Solo Trip in Australia

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Travelling solo in Australia is an excellent way to learn more about yourself while having the adventure of a lifetime. See Australia’s breathtaking sights, embrace your independence and make memories that will last you a lifetime – sounds pretty great, doesn’t it? Of course, getting the most out of your solo travel experience takes some planning. Use these handy tips to learn how to plan a solo trip in Australia with ease.

Is Australia safe to travel alone? 

As far as solo travel destinations go, Australia is high on the list. Known for its friendly residents and laid-back lifestyle, Australia is absolutely a safe country to travel in alone. However, the safest solo trips in Australia are the ones where safety precautions are top of mind. Here are a few tips and tricks to make your solo travel experience as safe as possible: 

• Ensure somebody always knows where you are – Whether a friend or family member, have a contact person you regularly check in with at an agreed-upon time. Make sure this person knows your travel itinerary. That way, if you don’t get in touch when you said you would, they can take steps to check in on you.
• Travel during the day – This tip is particularly important for those embarking on solo road trips in Australia . Don’t travel on your own at night if you can avoid it.
• Be water safe – Australian beaches are home to unpredictable conditions. Swim at patrolled beaches and stay between the flags. Read more about safety practices on Australian beaches and swimming safety in general.
• Have a well-planned itinerary – When travelling solo in Australia, you don’t want to get somewhere on your own in the middle of the night. Make sure you plan how you’ll get from one place to another well in advance.
• Make two copies of your most important documents – This includes documents like your passport, visa and health insurance. Leave one with a trusted friend or family member and take one with you (along with the original). Keep them in separate areas of your luggage and always take your valuables with you.

Best places to travel solo in Australia   

So, what are some of the best solo travel destinations in Australia? The answer will depend on your interests, budget, location, safety concerns, and how much time you have available for your holiday. 

From a safety perspective, Australian major cities are typically well-connected and well surveilled, making them relatively safe destinations. Some of Australia’s most popular cities include Sydney , Melbourne , Perth and Adelaide . Australia is also home to a number of smaller coastal cities that are generally very safe for solo travellers, including the Gold Coast and Cairns .

If it’s a more rural experience you’re after, it may be worth joining a tour group, so you’re not entirely alone in remote parts of the country. You may also need more time to explore these regions as they are quite isolated. Some examples of attractive (and safe) regional areas include Newcastle , Toowoomba and Mildura .

Accommodation 

What kind of accommodation you’ll feel most comfortable in is primarily a question of budget. Solo trip costs can add up quickly, so if you’re on a tight budget , you might want to consider a bed in a shared hostel room. While these rooms offer minimal privacy, they tend to be pretty cheap. Shared rooms are also an excellent option for those looking to socialise. There are often communal kitchen facilities and living rooms where you can sit and chat with fellow travellers.

If you want more room to yourself, check out private rooms in hostels or hotel rooms. These will be more expensive, but the price may well be worth the reward of sinking into a soft bed and sleeping soundly after a long travel day. 

Socialising as a solo traveller 

Travelling solo in Australia can get a bit lonely at times, so you may be keen to meet new people. Aside from meeting fellow travellers in your accommodation, you can also check out sites like Meetup for events near you. Meetups are often targeted at people with similar interests, so be sure to download the app and take a look.

If you’re after a more personal relationship, check out Bumble BFF . Based on the popular Bumble dating app, this platform allows you to find platonic friends.

Another option is to check out local Facebook groups and events once you arrive at your destination. To refine your search, filter by interests or area; from there, you can browse the listings to see if there’s anything of interest. 

Be kind to yourself

If you’re trying to figure out how to plan a solo trip, remember that self-compassion is key. Travelling by yourself is a learning experience and it can bring many different emotions. Don’t beat yourself up if you feel lonely, scared or bored – these are normal feelings that all solo travellers encounter. But the prize of travelling by yourself is the personal growth that comes with it – and it’s well worth any feelings of discomfort along the way.

Janina Waldmann

Janina is a freelance content and copywriter based in Sydney, Australia. A lover of all things language and culture, she graduated from the University of Technology Sydney with a communications degree in writing and cultural studies. Recent years have seen her delve headfirst into the international student experience while living and studying in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Janina lives in Sydney’s inner west and enjoys sharing her love for this part of the world with the Insider Guides audience.

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Solo Travel in Australia: The Best Tips, Tricks and Trips

Australia is full of amazing experiences for solo travellers and has long been a favourite destination for backpackers, students taking gap years and first-time solo travellers. From big cities to the great outdoors, you can find the perfect way to plan your solo travel in Australia with our comprehensive guide.

Is Australia safe for solo travellers

Australia is a very safe country for solo travellers, including female solo travellers and those backpacking Australia alone. The country has robust and easy-to-navigate tourism and transport infrastructures with plenty of excellent destinations for both experienced and beginner solo travellers. Of course, you should always practise due diligence when it comes to keeping your belongings safe and weighing the risks of any activities (and remember, the emergency number in Australia is 000). One risk to bear in mind if you’re travelling in summer is bushfires, which can occur during heat waves. So make sure you keep an eye on local warnings and follow any advice about when to evacuate an area.

Tips for solo travelling in Australia

Australian solo travel is super easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your trip runs as smoothly as possible.

What to bring

The exact guidelines for what you should bring will change depending on where and when you’re going, but there are a few standard things to keep in mind that are particularly good to have. Solid walking shoes are crucial no matter what time of year you’re travelling, and if you’re buying a pair specifically for your trip, make sure you spend some time breaking them in before you leave to help avoid blisters.

Swimwear is crucial for summer travel, and you should remember that the southern beaches are often still a bit chilly, even during summer when the sun isn’t shining bright, so if you can fit a wetsuit, you might appreciate it. Sunscreen and mosquito repellent are two summer essentials that you can easily find at supermarkets and chemists in Australia. However, it’s helpful to have one of each on hand before you go; that way, you only need to worry about stocking up while you’re there.

While much of the southeastern parts of the country roughly follow traditional seasons, elsewhere in the northern parts of Australia, there are two main seasons: wet and dry. The wet season lasts between roughly December and March and the dry season lasts between roughly May and October. You’ll most likely prefer visiting the southern parts of the country between October and March (with the hottest temperatures usually occurring in February and March). If you want to travel around the whole country, then October is a great month to choose as it overlaps with spring in the south of the country and the dry season in the north.

Booking in advance

Booking accommodation and any activities you’ve got your heart set on in advance can help you save money and ensure your trip runs smoothly. It’s a good idea to build at least a loose itinerary about which cities you want to visit and when, so that you can start to get a sense of what sort of budget you’ll need, even if you don’t book right away.

But, of course, Australia is a country full of surprises, and if you’re travelling on your own, there’s a good chance you don’t want to be too tied down to one plan or itinerary. So, if spontaneity is important to you, try to build flexibility into your schedule by booking accommodation with flexible cancellation policies and not planning your days so much that you don’t have room to make changes or add things.

Get to know the public transport

Australia has a robust public transportation system, particularly in its major cities, which is super useful for solo travellers who want to get around without taxis or rideshare apps. Many capital cities have smartcard ticket systems for trains, buses and trams and sometimes these are the only way to pay, so make sure you know where to get one when you arrive (for example, you can buy Sydney’s Opal Cards as soon as you arrive at the airport). Greyhound buses are a great way to move around the country, to major cities and more rural areas, particularly along the east coast. You can get a Greyhound Hop On Hop Off Pass that gives you flexibility.

Consider group activities

Solo travel is an amazing experience where you get to enjoy your adventure on your terms, but you might also be looking to socialise and get to know some fellow travellers. That’s when Australian tours for singles can be a great idea. In major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, you can often find free group tours run by local volunteers. You can also consider group activities like classes or workshops, such as surfing classes in Sydney or scuba diving tours in the Great Barrier Reef.

Where to go and what to do

Australia is jam-packed with fantastic, tourist-friendly locations that are amazing to explore as a solo traveller. We’ve listed just a few below, but it’s by no means an exhaustive list. Check out our guide to The Best Places to Visit in Australia to get even more inspiration for where to go and what to do.

Get to know Sydney

Sydney is one of Australia’s most popular cities, with iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Consider heading to Bondi Beach, one of the world’s best surfing locations where you can ride the waves or relax on the beach (never surfed before? Bondi has plenty of surf schools where total beginners can learn the basics). Sydney also has a number of beautiful green spaces, like the Royal Botanic Garden and Lane Cove National Park. Foodies will love Sydney for its wide range of great eateries, boasting both authentic and innovative offerings from all around the world.

Explore Booderee National Park

Booderee is a beautiful national park on the Pacific Ocean, where lush forests meet soft sand beaches and clear blue water. Discover unique native wildlife and get stunning views from the dramatic cliffs that line the shores before spending the night at one of the park’s camping grounds. There are multiple beach options, including Murray’s and Whiting, some of which you can reach via scenic hikes. In addition, you should visit Booderee Botanic Gardens, the only Aboriginal-owned botanic garden in Australia.

Experience the best of Melbourne

Melbourne and its surrounding areas are a great way to begin solo travel in Australia, with delicious food, excellent coffee and plenty of fun experiences. You’ll find cosy laneway cafes, incredible street art and unique boutiques in the city. Melbourne is home to some excellent galleries and museums, including the National Gallery of Victoria, the Melbourne Museum and Scienceworks. St Kilda and Brighton are where you can find great beachside experiences and the Brighton Bathing Boxes are an adorable, picture-perfect sight.

Discover the Great Outdoors in and around Cairns

Cairns is one of Australia’s best locations for solo travellers who love to get outdoors and do lots of fun activities. Cairns makes an excellent base for two of Australia’s most incredible natural wonders: the Daintree Forest and the Great Barrier Reef. Take a river cruise through the Daintree and a diving tour of the Great Barrier Reef to see the region’s wildlife up close, including rare birds, goannas, manta rays and turtles. The Kuku Yalanji people have inhabited the Daintree forest region for at least 50,000 years, and you can get to know the area with a local Kuku Yalanji guide.

Swim with Dolphins and Seals at Baird Bay, South Australia

Here’s an utterly unforgettable experience you can have while travelling Australia alone: swimming with dolphins and sea lions. At Baird Bay on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, you can get to know these gorgeous, totally wild sea creatures in their natural habitat. You can choose between non-swimming tours, where you stay on board (and mostly dry), and swimming tours, where you don a wetsuit and snorkelling gear to get up close and personal with the sea lions and dolphins. It’s a combined tour, so you don’t have to choose which animals to meet, and tours run from September to May. Make sure you book in advance, especially between December and February.

Where to stay in Australia

You’ll have plenty of options for places to stay when you’re travelling around Australia, with options to suit a range of budgets. We’ve listed some of the best hotels and hostels below but don’t forget that many areas have excellent camping grounds where you can sleep under the stars.

Hostels in Australia

Hostels are an excellent option for solo travellers as they provide both budget accommodation and a hub where you can meet up with fellow travellers (who are often likely to be solo travellers too). ‘Base’ is one of the most common hostel chains in the country, and their St Kilda location in Melbourne is particularly excellent; it’s close to the beach with a bar and barbecue. ‘Wake Up!’ in Sydney and ‘Gilligan’s Backpacker and Hostel Resort’ in Cairns are two excellent, slightly more upscale options that offer both dorm beds and private rooms. If you’re staying in any remotely popular tourist location in Australia, you’re sure to find a comfortable hostel where you can lay your head at night.

Hotels in Australia

If you have a bit more room in your budget for accommodation, you can find great hotels in any of Australia’s major cities with a range of prices on offer. For example, in Melbourne, the PARKROYAL is a high-quality option close to Melbourne Airport, and the Quincy Hotel provides comfortable luxury in the CBD. In Sydney, the Shangri-La is one of the best luxury hotels in Australia, while the Great Southern is an excellent, more budget-friendly option. You can find Great Southern hotels all throughout Australia.

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10 helpful tips for travelling solo in Australia

Amanda Woods

Travel Journalist

16 February 2023

Travelling solo is an art that takes a bit of fine-tuning, but once you get it right, you’ll never want to stop.

Whether you’re excited or terrified by the prospect of solo travel in Australia, here are some top tips to help get you on your way.  

1. Embrace the unknown

When you’re going somewhere you’ve never been before it’s comforting to have a familiar face along for the ride. But rather than worrying about going it alone, see it as a chance find out just what you’re capable of when you’re the only one in the driver’s seat.

You’ll be surprised what you can do when you travel solo. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Plan ahead but don’t panic if those plans don’t go as smoothly as you’d hoped. If the last few years have taught us anything it’s that we can’t control everything in life and flexibility is key. Stay open to where any twists and turns may take you. It may not be where you set out to go, but you could come home with even better memories and stories.   

Stay open to whatever opportunities come your way. (Image: Tourism Australia)

2. Talk to strangers

Some people can happily talk to anyone, anywhere. For others conversations are things best saved for people they already know and love. Depending on the day I could be in either of these camps and can happily spend days talking to no one, or find myself chatting to strangers about anything under the sun.  

When you’re travelling solo there’s a lot to be said for talking to strangers. If they’re local they can tell you more about the place you’re visiting. If they’re a fellow traveller you can swap tales and tips.

To stay on the safe side,  don’t tell people you’ve just met that you’re travelling alone. A phantom partner who’s either back in the hotel room or about to meet you for dinner can help create a safety buffer until you’re confident you’re in the right kind of company.   

If you’re a bit rusty on the striking-up conversations with strangers side of things try asking them questions about their favourite things to do, see and eat around town. If they like to chat you could be there for hours. And if they don’t then thank them for their short reply and let them get back to their day.    

You’ll learn a lot by speaking to strangers. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Enjoy dining alone

Solomangarephobia is a fear of eating alone in public and while I’ve never known that fear I know what it’s like to feel other people looking at me when I’m dining alone, especially when I treat myself to a solo meal in a good restaurant .   

If you’re worried about eating by yourself a counter seat or a seat at the bar can be a great option. I’ve had some very entertaining conversations with chefs, bar staff and fellow single diners at a counter seat. 

Just because you’re on your own, doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to a gourmet meal. (Image: Tourism Australia)

As easy as it is to disappear into your phone, force yourself to put your devices away and  take in where you are. Really taste that food that you’ve never eaten before. Even if it’s an old favourite dish, you’ve never had it here so how does it compare?   

If you’d rather have some kind of distraction bring a book or magazine, or take the time to write in a travel journal or catch up on postcards rather than scrolling social media.   

Try to embrace your solo dining experience rather than escaping into your phone. (Image: Tourism Australia)

4. Be patient

With yourself and with others. When you step out of your comfort zone you’re bound to have some frustrating moments. Whether it’s failing to immediately grasp a new public transport system or getting lost after taking a wrong turn, take a breath and reboot. Allow extra time for figuring some things out slowly and be kind to yourself when you get things wrong.

Extend the same courtesies to everyone you meet on your travels. Some things may not be done as quickly as you’re used to back home, but with so many short-staffed businesses around Australia, the people behind the counters are the ones who turned up and are doing their best.

Step out of your comfort zone. (Image: Tourism Australia)

5. Pack your hiking boots

Really get to know a special corner of Australia on two feet. You can either be inspired by Cheryl Strayed’s Wild experience and go completely solo, or if you’re like me and want to walk the walk but not pitch your own tent you can join a guided hike. 

The spectacular mountain view on top is worth the hike. (Image: Spicers Scenic Rim)

As a solo traveller on  Spicer’s Scenic Rim Trail ,  I was able to hike 88km up and along Queensland ’s Great Dividing Range with nothing more than a day pack. As well as having the security and safety of a guide I loved the chance to get to know fellow hikers both on the trail and over drinks and dinners every night.

Safely traverse the Spicers Scenic Rim trail with a hiking guide. (Image: Spicers Scenic Rim)

There are short and long walks to find around Australia including Tasmania ’s Bay of Fires Lodge Walk, South Australia ’s Arkaba Walk and the Northern Territory ’s Larapinta Trek , and some companies offer no single supplement deals so you don’t have to pay more to go solo.   

The Arkaba Walk is great for solo travellers. (Image: Wild Bush Luxury / Great Walks of Australia)

6. Join a group

If your friends and family aren’t interested in joining you on your dream trip but you’d rather not go it alone, a group holiday could be the answer. When I joined an  Inspiring Journeys  tour I went from an Indigenous tour of the Daintree and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef to seeing Field of Light at Uluru at hiking Kings Canyon at sunrise.

Kings Canyon is a true spectacle you don’t want to miss. (Image: Inspiring Journeys)

As well as handing over all of the logistics to the experts, you’ll get the chance to share the trip with other travellers. Companies will often know the best things to do in any location and have tickets to events or experiences that can sell out in advance.

Companies will know the best things to do in any location. (Image: Tourism Australia)

With tours tailored to different kinds of travelling styles as well as destinations, you may even meet some like-minded travel friends for future adventures. 

Tours are tailored to different kinds of travelling styles. (Image: Walkabout Cultural Adventures)

7. Set sail

Another way to go it alone without really going it alone. I’ve enjoyed cabins for one on boats and ships that have had anywhere from 10 to 4,000 passengers. Sailing solo gives you a chance to be as social or as quiet as you like and at meals there’s almost always a table where you can join other people or you can simply request to dine alone.   

Cruising is a good way to meet other people while travelling. (Image: Tourism Australia)

As with group tours you don’t have to worry about orchestrating any plans, and on a ship you don’t have to keep packing and unpacking your bags either. On a tour around Tasmania’s wild coast with  Coral Expeditions I was able to see wilderness spots I couldn’t have reached by car and after sharing travel tales over meals I could retire to my cabin alone.

Australia’s powdery white beaches have sparkling emerald blue waters. (Image: Coral Expeditions)

Coral Expeditions are among the cruise companies that offer to match single guests with people of the same gender to avoid single supplements, and also have a Standby Singles offer where you could get a cabin to yourself with no single supplement depending on availability.   

Look around for a cruise line that doesn’t charge more for singles. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Some cruise lines including  Cunard  and  Celebrity Cruises  also have solo staterooms built for one but as single cabins and fares are limited it’s best to book well ahead.   

Some cruise lines have solo staterooms. (Image: Tourism Australia)

8. Be beach smart

Australian beaches are pretty sweet places to get away from it all and while most people can be trusted unfortunately there are times when you shouldn’t just put your valuables in your shoes when you go for a dip. Well, that’s unless they’re a pair of reef or waterproof shoes with pockets. Then you’re good to go.

Beaching solo is great fun, just make sure you do it safely. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Some beaches have lockers but when they don’t you’re best off leaving valuables either in the hotel safe or hidden in the car if you’re between rooms on a road trip . A waterproof phone pouch can fit your phone, room card and a little cash when you go for a swim, or you can also buy a small portable safe to attach to a table or umbrella.   

If you decide to bury your things in the sand make sure you’re subtle about it and use a zip-lock bag. And if there’s a lifeguard on duty get a spot in front of them as most thieves will avoid areas where they think someone is watching.  

Hear the soft sounds of the waves caressing the shore.

9. Stay safe

Even though Australia is a pretty safe country to travel around it’s still a good idea to do some simple things to help make your solo trip a safe one.   

Pop a rubber doorstop in your bag for those times when your hotel room doesn’t have a deadbolt or security latch. They’re small and light and can stop an intruder in their tracks.   

I like to tell empty hotel rooms that I’ll see them soon and then say I’m back when I open the door so that it looks like I’m not alone. Asking for two keys at check-in if there’s anyone else around is also a good idea.  

Resist sharing where you are on social media until you’ve checked out. I once shared a drink with two influencers who discovered to their horror that the champagne that was sent to their room wasn’t from hotel management but from a man who liked their latest Instagram story a bit too much.  

And while smart international readers will already have this covered a tip for our fellow Australians. While you may only think about travel insurance when you’re heading overseas it can come in very handy in your own country too. Domestic travel insurance policies can kick in when you’re anywhere between 50 and 250km from home and depending on the policy could cover you for delays and cancellations and lost or damaged belongings.   

Make sure you feel comfy and secure in your hotel room.

10. Have fun

And finally, in a world where so many of our decisions involve friends, family and work enjoy every moment of a trip that’s all about you.   

Solo travel allows you to choose everything you do from the places you go and the things you see to what time you want to have breakfast in the morning and go to bed at night. And if you decide at the last minute to turn that 7 am breakfast into an 11 am brunch, that’s okay too.  

Solo travel allows you to go at your own pace. (Image: Tourism Australia)

It’s self-indulgent in the best of possible ways, and as well as discovering new things in new places, you may find that you learn a lot about yourself on the way too. 

Be self-indulgent, you deserve it. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Amanda Woods is a travel writer based in New England high country in NSW. She’s travelled from Antarctica to the Arctic and loves to inspire people to get out and explore this big beautiful world of ours. She has a passion for regenerative, sustainable and mindful travel and has some big Australian travel dreams for the future.

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Comments (2)

You only have one life embrace your wishes and travel enjoy life unexpected vista and people

Thank you for the great tips, I will definitely try them.

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A Comprehensive Guide To Solo Female Travel In Australia

Having spent 12 months road tripping across Australia I can attest to the fact that the varied landscapes of this vast continent are a heaven for those in search of an adventurous escape.

From the passenger window of our vintage Winnebago I watched as miles of arid desert, lush tropical rainforests, and mountainous terrain flew past. And over the course of our yearlong adventure, we drove over 25,000km making it the most EPIC of all our road tripping adventures to date.

While we travelled as a couple, I often questioned how I would have tackled 12 months in Australia on my own. As a solo female traveller there are a few extra considerations to factor into your itinerary planning, not only those that will offer additional security, but aspects of budgeting and logistics that are easier to manage when travelling as part of a couple or group.

I’d say that I’ve a good knowledge of travel in Australia, but today I’m turning to a woman who has spent 10 years travelling solo across the continent. Read on as I chat to Michela Fantinel, author of Your Australia Itinerary , the ultimate guide for female solo travellers.

THE BASICS OF CREATING YOUR OWN AUSTRALIA ITINERARY

Q: What should travellers be aware of when planning their Australian travel itinerary?

The hardest part about creating a good itinerary for travel in Australia is balancing your time frame with the places you want to see and the distances you have to travel.

When crafting your itinerary, factor in the time it takes to travel from one location to the next and choose self-driving routes that match your level of experience. Be realistic, and make sure the distances work with your schedule.

HOW TO GET STARTED PLANNING YOUR AUSTRALIAN ITINERARY

Q: What’s the first thing you should do when planning a trip to Australia?

Set a time frame: And stick to it. Make a list of must-dos and must-sees. Then make sure they’re a good match with the time of year you’re planning to visit. Draw a rough plan: Once you do this, calculate the distances to see if it’s viable.

Choose the most cost-effective transportation modes that allow you to maximize your time. Fix a budget: You’ll need this to stay on track . Make 80% of arrangements: But leave 10-20% to be decided upon spontaneously.

Give shape to your itinerary. In my book I’ve collated 4 itineraries + 36 customisation options , with the resource pages that offer insight into the best times of year to visit each state, highlight the best activities and locations for your style of travel, and how to make the most of your time in some of the country’s most notable places.

WHAT SHOULD SOLO FEMALE TRAVELLERS IN AUSTRALIA KEEP IN MIND?

Q: Are there any considerations that solo female travellers should be particularly aware of?

I have been travelling Australia alone for 1 5 years there aren’t really crucial aspects for female solo travellers, Australia is a safe country for solo travellers . I would suggest planning carefully how to get around, because of its huge distances.

If you want to traverse the country from coast to coast you need to to combine different transportation modes to make the most of your money and time. The same for accommodation, you can save money by staying in hostels, or in private homes. House sitting in Australia is also a great way to stay for free in exchange of house and pet sit.

WHY PRE PLANNING YOUR AUSTRALIAN ESCAPE IS VITAL

Q: How important is it to have a clear idea of what you want to see and do whilst visiting Australia?

Unless you have an unlimited budget you can’t afford to make changes to your plan last minute , because this would mean increasing the cost by 100-200%.

In Australia, distances are huge; it takes a long time to move from A to B. Cheap flights and internal transportation must be booked in advance to save 30-50% on normal rates. Consider renting a car or campervan and sleeping out in some of Australia’s most inspiring wilderness campsites for a quintessential Aussie experience.

Don’t waste time doing extra research when in Australia . You’re there to discover places and experience a new country, not to plan and revise your itinerary. To get the best deals the vast majority of your planning should be completed before leaving for Australia.

WHAT MAKES A SUCCESSFUL AUSTRALIAN ESCAPE

Q: What are the main factors to consider when choosing experiences for your Australian itinerary?

The first should be timing – how much time do you need to see a place? You don’t want to miss out on the big ticket experiences, but you also don’t need to stay too long either. In my book I offer detailed information with advice regarding the optimum amount of time to spend in some of the country’s most iconic locations.

Next is transportation . Self-driving vs public transportation or tours – you need to know all options for each route and choose what makes you feel most comfortable with. Self-driving is a more rewarding way to travel around but it’s not for everyone!

Finally select your destinations wisely . The greater the distances you have to travel between attractions, the more money you’ll spend on transport, and the less time you’ll have to experience the country.

Visit Michela’s informative Australian travel blog RockyTravel.net and and get her  Australia Travel Guide Book  now.

Have you explored Australia solo? Share your experience below!

So much good tips here for solo female travel! It’s a treasure trove! Even though Im already doing solo travel, there’s much more to learn everyday. ?

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El Questro Wilderness Park, Kimberley, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

7 enriching solo holidays in Australia

Solo travel continues to grow in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. What better way to take a step back, focus on your own needs and wellness, or challenge yourself to try something new? Australia is just the place to take time to travel alone.

By Sarah Reid

There are many different reasons travellers choose to adventure on their own, and there’s no country better to do it in than Australia thanks to our world-class tourism infrastructure, experiences tailored to solo travellers, welcoming locals and operators, and easy-to-navigate transport networks. 

So, whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in local culture, spend some quality time alone to turn your attention inward, press the reset button, or challenge yourself, here are 7 solo holiday options to inspire your next adventure.

Travel slow on the Ghan

The Ghan, MacDonnell Ranges, Northern Territory © Great Southern Rail

The Ghan was named in honour of cameleers from Afghanistan who worked in remote outback Australian communities from the 1860s to the 1930s.

The Ghan , which travels between Adelaide , the capital of South Australia , through the Red Centre to Darwin in the Northern Territory over three days, is as classic as Australian rail journeys go, and is an ideal trip to embark on solo; travel in stylish comfort while enjoying the wide open spaces of the outback, allowing you plenty of time to contemplate, reflect and relax.

All-inclusive and equipped with Gold Service Single , solo travellers are well catered for with the luxury the Ghan is famous for. You can choose to meet other passengers in the communal spaces, enjoy conversation with fellow travellers over a delicious gourmet meal or drink, and take part in the off-train experiences in the Northern Territory towns of Alice Springs and Katherine , or you can simply sit back and enjoy the peace and quiet, and stunning scenery. 

If, after your trip, you get the taste for solo train travel, single berths are available on other iconic Australian rail journeys, too, including the Great Southern , The Overland and the Indian Pacific , offering additional opportunities to marvel at Australia’s mesmerising landscapes on your own.

Immerse yourself in the spirituality of Ulu r u

Sounds of Silence, Uluṟu, Northern Territory © Voyages

Visiting Uluru , Australia’s most sacred rock, is a profound experience for many travellers, and heading there on your own couldn’t be easier. All accommodation, restaurants and tour booking offices are based in and around the town of Yulara, just nine kilometres (six miles) from Ayers Rock Airport in the Northern Territory. So all you need to do is fly in, check into your hotel or campsite, and choose your own Uluṟu adventure from the many options available. 

If the aim of your solo adventure is to go at your own pace and take the time to connect with the country around you, then a good option is to hire a car at the airport. From there, you can explore the trails and lookout points in nearby Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park , enjoying the opportunity to absorb this deeply spiritual landscape. If you prefer to meet other travellers, you can take the Hop On Hop Off shuttle that stops at all resorts and points of interest in the park. 

Come evening, the Sounds of Silence dinner experience – where guests sit at communal tables under the stars – was made for mingling and is a great experience for solo adventurers.

Take time for yourself in Byron Bay

Elements of Byron Bay, Byron Bay, New South Wales © Destination NSW

Calling all yogis

Interested in doing yoga teacher training on your travels? Local favourite studio Creature Yoga offers a range of courses.

If you’re seeking a holiday away from life’s distractions, this northern New South Wales coastal town might be just the place for you. Australia’s unofficial wellness capital, Byron Bay is jam-packed with yoga studios, delicious farm-to-table and organic restaurants and cafés, alternative gyms, healers, massage centres and more, offering the perfect opportunity to take time out to nourish your mind and body on your own schedule. 

It goes without saying that nature is good for the soul, and opportunities to spend time in nature abound in Byron and surrounds. From verdant green hinterland, to wide open beaches and lush ancient rainforests, you’re certain to feel everyday worries wash away in Byron, allowing you to find your balance and serenity.

Check into a Gold Coast wellness retreat

Eden Health Retreat, Currumbin Valley, Queensland © Eden Health Retreat

Wellness retreats provide the perfect opportunity to revive and refresh, and are tailored perfectly for solo travellers. Whether you’re setting a personal health challenge, focusing on getting fit, taking time to find your balance and restore your mental health, or simply want some alone time to recharge your batteries, Australia is home to some of the world’s best wellness retreats. 

Retreats don’t mean you have to go without though. Two of the most luxe, Gwinganna and Eden , are set in the lush subtropical Gold Coast hinterland in south-east Queensland . Both combine gourmet dining with wellness therapies – everything from yoga to spa treatments, nature walks to mindfulness sessions. Group activities and communal meals offer great opportunities to socialise.

Tackle Tasmania’s Three Capes Track

Three Capes Track, Tasman Peninsula, Tasmania © Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service

Nothing beats the fresh air, beautiful landscapes and sense of achievement you get from tackling serious hiking trails, plus it’s a wonderful opportunity to focus on you and your surrounds, and not life’s distractions. Tasmania offers some world-famous multi-day hikes that are great options for solo travellers. 

The Three Capes Track , which traces the soaring cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula just south of Hobart , is a fantastic option for solos. With only 48 hikers allowed on this well-maintained trail each day, you can immerse yourself in nature, knowing that some of the nicest hiking huts in the state await (with on-site rangers to chat to, if you want some company). Like your walking experiences a little more luxe? Consider booking one of the guided treks across the state with the Tasmanian Walking Company , which maintains private eco-lodges along its hiking routes.

Cruise the Kimberley

Lake Argyle, Kimberley, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

If you like the idea of solo adventuring with the benefit of seeing a variety of places and an easy way to meet other travellers, a small-ship cruise along Western Australia’s breathtaking Kimberley Coast , between Darwin and Broome , could be the perfect fit for you. 

With most expeditions lasting 10 to 14 days, it’s enough time to really get to know your fellow cruise mates (if you want), and with itineraries packed with scenic walks, waterfall swims, visiting Aboriginal art sites and more, you’ll get the chance to experience Western Australia’s vast and stunning landscape with ease. Small ships including the Eco Abrolhos and the Reef Price offer particularly good deals for solos, charging single supplements of just 10 per cent and 20 per cent respectively if you’d prefer to have your own room.

Take a self-guided cultural tour of Canberra

National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © Visit Canberra

Some people happily breeze through galleries and museums, while others take hours to soak up all that art and history. That’s why cultural city breaks are among the most rewarding trips to make alone; you can go at your own pace. 

Canberra , home to the National Gallery of Australia – which houses the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art – is a great place to start. The national capital is easy to get around on foot or by public transport, and the city has no lack of culinary options after a long days’ sightseeing. Consider bedding down at the hip Ovolo Nishi , where you can mingle with other guests over a free sundowner during the daily “social hour” if you want company, or help yourself to the complimentary in-room mini-bar if you prefer to reflect on your day alone.

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Solo Female Travel To Australia: A Guide To Oz For The First-Timer

Travel to Australia is my preferred solo travel escapade. It all started with a two-month backpacking trip on a gap year in 2004 and it was love at first sight!

That experience has hooked me ever since. With a total of 23 months spread over 12 years of trips to Australia, I haven’t yet seen it all. 

Down Under is a remote country that I highly recommend to the adventurous solo traveler. It is twice the size of Europe and has a population of only 24 million people, but more than 50 million kangaroos, 75 million sheep, cattle stations the size of Belgium and national parks that are as big as half of Switzerland. You’ll soon get the picture of how big the country is.

A few random facts you might want to know about Australia

– It is HUGE, as large as the continental USA. The 6th largest in the world, in fact.  – Australia has more than 10,000 beaches and you’ll need some serious sunblock. – Don’t be fooled. It can be hot – but also very cold in some parts, especially at night. – Australian English can be hard to understand as it has plenty of slang. – 75% of local species are still unknown (and the 10 deadliest snakes live in Australia). – Most animals aren’t deadly. But if you need to, dial 000 for emergency services. – Australia is not cheap. On the other hand, you don’t tip. – Wifi is slow and expensive. Enjoy going offline.

The major draw for the  solo traveler  is its amazing nature, along with the abundance of outdoor and off-the-beaten path adventures. It’s a country that offers  endless possibilities for road trippers  across a vast, fascinating landscape.

Australia is a safe and woman-friendly country. As a woman you can safely travel at night on buses, trains and public transportation with no fear.

First, travel at night is quite common in Australia, and second, people are easygoing and respectful. I have traveled alone to different countries and visiting Australia, I never felt safer.

Heading to Australia solo? The perfect travel guide to Australia

Your Australia Itinerary , by Michela Fantinel, is hands-down the best guidebook for Australia travel itineraries on the market. It’s packed with valuable first-hand information and rock solid advice from the author, who has traveled through Australia for more than 15 years. From how to allocate time and advanced planning tricks to choosing the right destinations to see and activities to do, this book is the perfect tool for creating your own trip itinerary around Australia.

Traveling to Australia solo? The perfect travel guide to Australia

The locals are welcoming towards solo travelers and generously offer help (even when you don’t to ask for it) by giving advice, tips and also offering to host you at their homes. At the same time, this is a country of extremes, with huge contrasts and challenges too. So you definitely need to know what you can and can’t do while traveling around Australia on your own.

How to get around: organizing your trip around Australia

Travel within Australia is probably the biggest challenge all travelers face when touring the country.

To cover long distances, flying is the most cost-effective. However, domestic flights are not cheap and you must book ahead of time. If you have enough time, train travel can also be a great way to see the country.

While you can travel safely anywhere and with a wide range of transportation, the best way to explore the country is by going on a road trip, either with a car or a campervan.

Most remote areas have only limited public transportation, so there are two main options for solo travel in Australia: either joining a tour or self-driving.

For a solo woman,  driving around the country  on her own may sound daunting. Yes, it can be quite challenging. It took me a while to get familiar with self-driving and I can tell you that it’s easier than I thought. You will not need to hire a 4WD car. The majority of road trips are on sealed roads. Certainly any road trip requires good preparation and the awareness that you will be  alone on the road  for a long time. I always recommend you combine as many ways of transportation as possible. 

Best Australian destinations for first-time solo travel to Australia: bucket list

If you are embarking on a trip, these are the best destinations in Australia, from both ease and safety standpoints, and the ones I would recommend for the first-time solo traveler to Australia.

Melbourne and its surroundings offer an insight into the great Aussie food and coffee culture plus the opportunity to discover Melbourne’s surroundings with easy day-trips. You can see striking coastal landmarks, ancient fern tree gully and eucalyptus forest, go hiking and enjoy the great outdoors in Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula . Take stroll or bike along the beach from Melbourne to Brighton . You can taste the local specialties and great variety of wines, see native animals at Wilson Promontory , one of the top locations for nature and wildlife in the region.

North Tropical Queensland  is known for its fabulous beaches and heaven for aquatic sports from snorkeling to surfing and scuba-diving . Although it’s a bit touristy you will love the variety of things to do and see, which go beyond the Great Barrier Reef. The rich vegetation of the Daintree Forest (the most ancient rainforest in the world) north of Cairns is a striking landscape with unique native animals. The inland wetlands with heritage sites offers great food tours (organic tropical fruits and veggie, dairy products and more), picturesque landscape with lakes, hills, vast coffee and tea plantations. You can easily tour the region by car and everything is within 250 km of Cairns.

Central Australia

Uluru and The Red Centre  must be on your list, even though climbing it is now banned. This is one of the seven wonders of the world and thinking of Uluru gives me shivers. The huge red rock can be experienced at sunrise and sunset and by walking around the 9 km base walk. Moreover, aboriginal guides offer free guided tours and an insight into the significance of Uluru to the local Aboriginal population. To visit, you can also take a day trip from Alice Springs .

Sydney is a must-see destination, what so many call “London in the Sun”. Sydney Harbour is one of the city’s highlights but the city, next to the famous city beaches of Bondi and Manly, is also a gateway to many more destinations like Royal National Parks and the Blue Mountains . You can also start a once-in-a-lifetime train journey across the country aboard the Indian Pacific, and go west.

Tasmania is a paradise for hiking adventures .  Australia’s heart-shaped largest island boasts a wealth of beautiful spots and varied landscapes. From deep forests, waterfalls and mountains of the South and Western regions, to coastal national parks and smaller pristine islands. An easy itinerary route is to start from Hobart, explore the surroundings with Mount Wellington and then go on a road trip along the East Coast through the Freycinet National Park , Bicheno, Darby, Scottsdale, to Launceston .

Beyond Tasmania’s outdoor attractions, you’ll discover excellent premium wines and an array of local produce. If you are interested in history, then plan in a visit to Port Arthur to learn about convicts and Australia’s colonial past. 

Off-the-beaten-path adventures in Australia

If you are looking for more adventurous experiences, the country offers plenty – but there are more challenges, too.

Driving on your own in remote areas can a be challenge if you are not used to it. You may find yourself driving for hours and rarely meet any cars or humans. There are many Outback destinations worth visiting if you are prepared to embark on a solo trip adventure, such as the Kimberley in Western Australia, with the Purnululu National Parks.

Kangaroo Island and Flinders Ranges are among the best places to visit in South Australia: they have some of the most striking outback landscapes and top places to see native Australian wildlife in the wild.

What to pack for Australia

Australia is a sunny country and sun is one the main hazards for your travel health. Unfortunately, too many travelers don’t know or simply forget about this and I cannot emphasize enough the importance of choosing your clothing wisely in Australia.

My best tips: pack +50°C sun protection, a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirts and hiking trousers to avoid sunburn in Oz. Prefer  good quality functional travel wear  and only pack casual clothes: Australia is not really a country for formal or fancy dresses.  Good walking shoes  or lightweight hiking boots are a must if you plan outdoor adventures.

What to eat in Australia

Not many people know that Australia has  some of the finest local produce  you can imagine. The best food areas are from South Australia and Western Australia to the Yarra Valley in Victoria to North Tropical Queensland. The best local produce can be found at the farmers’ market in any city, town and village and tested in food tours or local restaurants.

I don’t have a typical dish, but love fish and Australia boasts some excellent fish. You can try the Tasmanian salmon, the huge blue crabs from South Australia and the famous oysters, Barramundi in Northern Australia, prawns from Queensland. And of course, the best fish and chips I have ever had are from Australia! 

What to buy in Australia

One thing I would recommend is  a boriginal art . Alice Springs is the top place to buy all types of indigenous art forms: from paintings, wooden and glass art, clothes, gadgets and accessories. The UGG boots made of sheep wool are another Australian shopping icon. Australian essential oils like Tea Tree Oil, Eucalyptus, as well as merino wool products are worth buying.

If money is no object, then head straight for the Broome South-Sea pearls and the pink and brown diamonds of the Kimberley, for which Western Australia is a top world producer of the finest quality.

Guest Contribution by Michela Fantinel . Michela is the founder of  Rocky Travel Guide , a website and a blog for the smart, independent and solo traveler in Australia.  She is also the author of  Your Australia Itinerary , the most comprehensive guide to help you create your solo trip to Australia. Join one of Michela’s  guided walking tours  for small groups of women.

Additional Australia travel resources

• The  Melbourne Visitor Centre  (previously at Federation Square) is treasure trove of local tourist information and more
• Check out  flights to Australia  
• Rent a car in Australia
• Compare campervan rentals  in Australia
• Organize  your trip by train  across Australia – and here are the schedules for the  Indian Pacific
• Consider Greyhound’s  Hop On-Hop Off buses
• Australia has plenty of accommodations opportunities:  Airbnb ,  housesitting ,  Youth Hostels  or a  wide range of hotels  
• Try a few  food tours  during your visit – and you might get to taste one of  THESE foods ! (or not…)
• Shop for aboriginal art but in case you can’t, here’s a great  online art shop .

Please don’t forget your travel insurance! Women on the Road recommends  World Nomads  if you’re under 66 (70 in some countries). If that birthday has come and gone,  click here  for travel insurance recommendations that cover you at any age.

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Is Australia Safe to Travel Alone? 15 Dangers to Beware

You dream of a solo journey to the Land Down Under. But you’ve heard about the perils – the snakes, the spiders, the heat, the bushfires. Now you’re a little worried and wondering: is Australia safe to travel alone?

The simple answer is, yes. Australia is a safe place to travel alone. 

As an Australian and a solo traveller, I am yet to meet anyone who felt unsafe whilst travelling around Oz. But don’t just take my word for it…

In this article, I’ll break down the statistics that answer the question: is Australia safe to travel alone? You’ll see that only a tiny number of female or male tourists ever experience safety concerns whilst travelling solo in Australia.

I’ll also list the 15 dangers that every tourist should be aware of when travelling alone around Australia. Plus, I’ll share my top 5 safety tips for solo travel in Australia.

Take the stress out of planning – see my full guide to solo travel in Australia !

Is Australia safe for solo female travellers?

Is australia safe for solo male travellers, 15 dangers of travelling alone in australia.

• 5 solo travel safety tips for Australia
• More solo travel guides and tips

Is Australia Safe to Travel Alone?

Australia is one of the safest countries in the world to travel alone. Out of the 9 million people that visit Australia each year, more than 97.5% of tourists never witness or experience intimidation, harassment, assault, robbery or theft ( source ). And 99.99% of tourists to Australia return home alive ( source ). 

Numerous factors make Australia a safe destination for solo travel:

• Low levels of crime.
• Few health risks, diseases and viruses.
• Modern amenities, infrastructure and transport links.
• Modern emergency services including police, ambulance and fire.
• Modern surveillance technology.
• Political stability and civil order.
• Generally friendly and helpful people.
• Public and private healthcare services.
• Strict criminal laws and gun bans.

Whilst it is safe to travel alone in Australia, you still need to remain aware of the dangers below and follow these solo travel safety tips . 

Solo travel deaths in Australia

On average, about 350-450 tourists die each year (0.01%) in Australia ( source ). 

Most health-related deaths occur amongst older tourists (e.g. heart disease). Contrastingly, most accidental deaths occur amongst younger tourists (e.g. transport accidents and drowning).

Very few deaths (about 0.9 per million short-term tourists) are caused by an unlawful assault (i.e. murder or manslaughter).

As such, it is statistically very safe to travel alone in Australia, particularly if you are in good health and aware of the dangers (see below).

Crimes against solo travellers in Australia

According to this government study , 97.7% of tourists in Australia never experience or witness crime or harassment. 

Of that 2.3% that do experience or witness these incidents:

• 1% witness intimidation, harassment or abuse
• 0.2% witness assault
• 0.2% witness robbery
• 0.8% witness theft.

The most likely places for tourists to witness these crimes in Australia are in accommodation (31%) or on footpaths or streets (25%). Generally, public transport, outdoor recreation areas and commercial/licensed premises were safe.

Tourists mostly witness theft and robbery during the daytime (between 9 am and 3 pm). However, intimidation, harassment and abuse crimes can occur in equal measures during both day and night.

About 5% of tourists aged 15 to 24 report being victims of crime or harassment whilst travelling around Australia. Comparatively, only 1.6% of tourists aged 25 or above report being victims of crime or harassment. This means that it is safer for older tourists to solo travel in Australia.

As such, you are statistically very safe from experiencing crime or harassment whilst travelling alone in Australia.

Australia is safe for solo female travellers. It is one of the most visited destinations in the world for women travelling alone.

Less than 1.5% of female travellers in Australia report witnessing or experiencing harassment, abuse or assault during their stay (according to the data above). 

However, young females travelling alone in Australia should take extra precautions. Most of the female tourists that do report harassment are aged between 15 and 24.  

I suggest buddying up with other female solo travellers from your hostel and walking home as a group after nights out. Most hostels also offer female-only dorms, further reducing safety risks.

Australia is a safe destination for male solo travellers. Again, it is one of the most visited destinations in the world for men travelling alone. 

Less than 2.5% of male travellers in Australia report witnessing or experiencing abuse or crime during their stay (according to the data above).

However, young male tourists are more likely to be victims of homicide than other tourist demographics. Young males (aged between 15 and 24) are also more likely to witness or experience abuse or crime.

As such, young males travelling should take extra precautions. Avoid excessive drinking and walk away from altercations. Never drive when intoxicated and stick to the road rules. When returning to your accommodation at night, try to walk in a group.

For 20 more tips and personal tales, see my article on traveling alone as a man .

Related Post

1. Wildlife

The biggest safety concern for anyone about to travel alone around Australia? The creepy crawlies and the deadly wildlife!

When travelling alone in Australia, you need to be aware of the following animals and the threats that they pose:

• Snakes: Snakes are active in Australia from Spring to Autumn. It is highly unlikely that you will come across a snake during your solo travels. Try to avoid them by making noise, wearing covered footwear and sticking to well-used trails when bushwalking. If you do come across a snake, back away without taking your eyes off it.
• Spiders: Spiders are a concern in Australia throughout the year. You will likely come across spiders during your solo travels. Avoid spiders by shaking out your shoes and clothing before putting them on. Never reach into piles of foliage, pipes, holes or places where spiders may live.
• Crocodiles: In the north of Australia (Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australia), you need to be aware of crocodiles. Never swim at the beach or in fresh water sources unless there is signage indicating that it is safe to do so. Avoid approaching or camping near the edge of the water and keep your distance from crocodile slide marks.
• Jellyfish: You also need to be aware of jellyfish in the north of Australia (particularly Queensland). The peak season for jellyfish is November to May. Never swim at the beach unless there is signage indicating that it is safe to do so. When visiting the Great Barrier Reef, you may want to hire a protective stinger suit.
• Sharks: Sharks are rarely a danger to swimmers in Australia. However, you can reduce your risk of encountering a shark by swimming close to the shore and between the flags at patrolled beaches. Avoid swimming at dusk or dawn. If you do see a shark, leave the water as quickly and calmly as possible.
• Mosquitos: Mosquitos are a health risk and can spread disease in Australia (particularly in northern Queensland). Protect yourself when travelling alone by covering up with long-sleeve tops and pants when outside. Apply repellent to exposed skin. Mosquitoes are worst at dusk and dawn. 
• Kangaroos, emus and cassowaries: Many solo travellers enjoy visiting zoos in Australia and getting up close to kangaroos and emus. However, you should avoid approaching these animals in the wild, as they have been known to attack by using their long claws.
• Dingoes: Wild dingoes roam around some popular tourist destinations in Australia, including the Outback and Fraser (K’gari) Island. Generally, they will avoid humans but they can become aggressive and attack. Never feed a dingo. If a dingo does approach you, stand tall and back away slowly (never run).  

2. Heat and sun

During summer, temperatures in Australia can reach more than 45℃ (113℉). 

You must stay well hydrated to avoid heat stroke. Try to drink about 2.5L (0.5 gals) of water per day whilst you travel alone.

Australia also has some of the highest levels of UV radiation in the world. Your skin can burn in as little as ten minutes if you don’t properly protect yourself from the sun. 

Always wear sunscreen when spending more than half an hour outside. On particularly hot days, try to cover up with a hat and long sleeves. 

3. Wild weather events

Extreme weather events are a common and dangerous occurrence in Australia. 

Besides the heat (see above), solo travellers also need to be aware of fires, floods, storms and cyclones

Upon arrival, download the Bureau of Meteorology app on your smartphone. This will keep you up to date with weather forecasts and warnings, helping you to stay safe whilst travelling alone in Australia.

4. Adventure sports

There are a heap of adventure sports for solo travellers to get involved in whilst travelling Australia. 

Some of the most popular adventure sports in Oz include scuba diving, snorkelling, hiking, paragliding, surfing, parachuting, bungee, fishing, skiing, snowboarding, caving, horse riding and white water rafting.

However, accidents can and do happen. Unfortunately, numerous tourists are injured or die each year whilst participating in adventure sports.

Always use a professional guide and a trusted operator when participating in adventure sports. Read online reviews on Google and TripAdvisor before booking.

Be aware, some activities that seem relatively easy (e.g. hiking, golf or tennis) can turn deadly in Australia due to extreme heat (see above).

5. Swimming

One of the biggest dangers to tourists in Australia is drowning whilst swimming. 

Whilst Australia’s beaches are beautiful, the surf is powerful and strong currents can drag swimmers out to sea. 

Only go swimming in Australia if you are a confident swimmer. And only swim on beaches that are patrolled by lifeguards, staying between the red and yellow flags. 

As mentioned above, you also need to be cautious of crocodiles, jellyfish and sharks when swimming in Australia. Always read the safety signage.

The biggest danger to tourists in Australia is driving and road safety. Drivers often become tired because of the long distances between destinations.

If you plan on driving whilst travelling alone in Australia, break long journeys into small chunks. Stop for a day or two in the regional towns between the major destinations.

Also, ensure that you have filled your car with enough fuel for the journey. Fuel stations can be few and far between in Australia, particularly in the Outback.

Never drink and drive. Australia has very strict drink driving laws and drivers are regularly breath tested by police. You will be criminally prosecuted and deported from the country if caught by police.

There are not many diseases or illnesses that solo travellers need to worry about in Australia. 

Generally, it is recommended that solo travellers receive their routine vaccines (e.g. flu, chickenpox, MMR, Diphtheria, Tetanus, etc.) before travelling to Australia (as recommended by the CDC ).

You can drink tap water in Australia. However, avoid drinking from outdoor taps unless they are designated for drinking.

Be aware of mosquitos when travelling alone in the tropics or rural areas. See above for advice on avoiding mosquito bites.

8. Sexually Transmitted Infections

More than 75% of backpackers and solo travellers have sex during their trip (and more than 30% hook up with more than one partner). But with so many travellers getting frisky during their adventures, you have to be cautious of STIs.

Some of the most common STIs in Australia that solo travellers need to be aware of include:

• Hepatitis B and C
• HPV and genital warts.

To reduce your risk of an STI or unintended pregnancy, use contraceptives or abstain from sex altogether. 

Men should include condoms on their solo travel packing list for males . Women should also include male or female contraceptives on their solo travel packing list for females .

9. Mental health

Solo travel can be sad and lonely at times, particularly if you are predisposed to mental health issues.

There are numerous helplines and services that solo travellers in Australia can use if they are struggling with their mental health.

If you are concerned about your mental health whilst travelling alone, see my article on solo travel depression . 

You may also be interested in knowing:

• How to travel alone and not be lonely
• Is it weird to travel alone?

10. Drunken behaviour

Australia is known for having a drinking culture. So, it is no surprise that many solo travellers (particularly youngsters) find themselves drinking and partying most nights whilst travelling alone around Australia.

However, excessive drinking presents short-term and long-term risks to your safety and well-being. When drunk, you are more likely to take risks (e.g. drive drunk, go swimming at night or get involved in altercations).

Numerous solo travellers have gone missing in Australia after a night of drinking. 

If you are going to drink, avoid becoming overly intoxicated. Try to buddy up with other travellers from your accommodation and stay in groups when partying.

Female solo travellers also need to be cautious of drink spiking. Statistics suggest that 4 out of 5 victims of spiking in Australia are female (many aged under 24). Always buy your own drinks, watch them being poured, never leave them unattended and throw it out if you think it tastes weird.

11. Fights and arguments

In Australia, almost 5% of people experience threatened or physical assault each year. As such, there is a chance that solo travellers may witness or be involved in an argument or fight during their stay in Australia.

However, most assaults occur in suburban or disadvantaged areas, where tourists do not generally visit.

Young people (aged 15-29) who are travelling alone need to be particularly cautious and avoid getting involved in arguments. 

Arguments and fights can occur during the day or night, but they mostly stem from drunken behaviour. Avoid interacting with drunken individuals in public.

12. Sexual harassment

Generally, females do not have to worry about intimidation, harassment or abuse when travelling alone in Australia. Less than 1% of tourists report witnessing or experiencing harassment during their stay.

Of those female tourists that do report harassment, however, most are aged between 15 and 24. Therefore, young females travelling alone should take extra precautions. 

As suggested above, buddy up with other female solo travellers from your hostel and walk home as a group after nights out. Most hostels also offer female-only dorms, further reducing safety risks.

If you do feel harassed, ask people around you for help if possible. Most Australians are friendly people and will help you immediately.

If there is no one else around or the situation is serious, do not hesitate to call the police on Australia’s emergency hotline – 000.

13. Theft and pickpocketing

Only 1% of tourists in Australia witness or experience theft or robbery during their stay. Theft and pickpocketing are very rare thanks to modern surveillance systems and strong policing.

However, it is still worthwhile keeping an eye on your belongings when visiting touristy areas.

When visiting busy beaches (e.g. Bondi Beach), try to avoid leaving your belongings alone on the sand whilst swimming. Take a buddy with you from your hostel, so that they can sit with your belongings whilst you swim. If you don’t have a buddy with you, try to keep your belongings close to the water’s edge and watch them from the water.

Thanks to the strict criminal laws and strong police presence in Australia, tourists rarely have to worry about being scammed.

However, there are some scams that solo travellers should be aware of in Australia:

• Taxi overcharging: It is preferable to use Uber over taxis. If you do have to use a taxi, make sure that the metre is switched on and check how long the trip should take on Google Maps.
• Text message and phone scams: If you are using a local SIM card whilst travelling in Australia, you may receive text or phone scams. Ignore or hang up on any numbers you don’t recognise.
• Train fares: Some scammers stand at train stations or bus stops and tell you that their bag was stolen (or a similar story). They will ask you to give them money for their return ticket home.
• Overcharging: In tourist areas, some businesses may try to overcharge you for goods or services. Whilst not technically a scam, you can use my guide to solo travel in Australia to get an idea for budgeting and general costs.

If you think you have been scammed, contact the Australian police and your bank to find out if there is any way to fix the situation.

15. Laws and airport customs

As you may have seen on shows like Nothing to Declare, Australia takes its criminal laws and airport customs very seriously.

As a solo tourist, you want to avoid breaking the law whilst visiting Australia. Doing so could see you criminally punished and deported from the country. 

The most common criminal laws that you need to be aware of when travelling alone in Australia include:

• Drug laws: Illicit drugs are illegal in Australia (including cannabis, cocaine, heroin, shrooms, LSD and amphetamines). If you are caught in possession of these drugs, you will almost definitely be arrested and prosecuted.
• Drink and drug driving: The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for fully licensed drivers in Australia is 0.05. If you are caught driving whilst intoxicated or under the effect of drugs in Australia, you will be arrested and prosecuted.
• Assault: I have seen many tourists in Australia arrested, prosecuted and deported due to their involvement in physical fights. Avoid altercations at all costs.

You also need to be aware of Australia’s import customs . When you arrive by plane, you will be asked if you are carrying food, animal products, tobacco, alcohol, medicines, drugs, plants, seeds, weapons or other miscellaneous items.

You may have to dispose of some of these items if they are banned in Australia. If you are caught trying to enter Australia with these items without declaring them, you may be fined or criminally prosecuted.

Solo Travel Safety Tips for Australia

Here are my top 5 safety tips for people travelling alone around Australia. But if you want more advice, be sure to check out all 35 of my solo travel safety tips .

• Save emergency contacts in your phone

The emergency assistance number in Australia is 000. Call this number if you ever need emergency assistance from the police, fire service or an ambulance.

Save the emergency assistance number as a contact in your phone. This will save you from having to Google it in an emergency.

However, only use this number in real emergencies. Calling it for improper use may be considered a criminal offence.

On your smartphone, you should also set a family member or trusted friend as an emergency SOS contact ( iOS and Android ).

• Catch public transport instead of driving

Driving and road accidents are one of the main causes of tourist deaths in Australia. To minimise your chances of being in an accident, avoid driving and catch public transport instead. 

Understandably, some solo travellers will want to drive or ride around Australia. In some cases, you need your own vehicle to access remote regions.

But if you do choose to drive whilst travelling alone in Australia, remember:

• Drive on the left side of the road.
• Take breaks when travelling long distances.
• Never drink and drive.
• Always carry enough petrol (particularly in the Outback).
• Avoid driving at dusk, dawn or night (this is when kangaroos and cattle are most often on the road).
• Don’t hitchhike 

Hitchhiking is not popular in Australia. 

If you try to hitchhike, you will likely be waiting for a long time before someone eventually picks you up. Standing on the side of a busy road or highway is extremely dangerous.

Also, you cannot guarantee that the driver is trustworthy. The victims in some of Australia’s most notorious murder cases were backpackers and solo travellers who were hitchhiking.

• Avoid these dangerous spots at night

Like every country in the world, there are places in Australia that can be dangerous for tourists to visit alone (particularly at night). 

The large cities and towns in Australia are generally safe to wander both day and night. Much of the crime occurs in the outer suburbs and in disadvantaged areas that tourists never visit.

However, in terms of crime, the most dangerous places to visit in Australia include:

• Alice Springs

As a local that has travelled all around Australia, I would avoid exploring these places at night. Whilst it might be fine to walk from your accommodation to a nearby bar or restaurant, you should avoid the backstreets and housing areas.

• Get a local SIM Card

For your safety, it is important that you stay connected whilst travelling alone around Australia. I recommend getting a local SIM card, which is usually more affordable and provides better coverage than data roaming.

There are three main mobile providers in Australia: Telstra, Optus and Vodafone. Personally, I use Telstra because they provide the widest coverage – important if you are travelling alone in the Outback.

All three providers have stalls in most of the international airports around Australia. Purchase a SIM upon arrival and have the staff set it up for you.

Summary: Is Australia Safe to Travel Alone?

Despite its dangers, Australia is still a very safe place to travel alone. This applies to everyone, including women and men, young and old.

Based on the statistics, there is an almost 99% chance that your solo journey in Australia will be trouble-free. 

If you use your common sense and follow safety advice, you will be one of the 9 million tourists that enjoy travelling to Australia each year.

It’s time to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, watch the sunrise over Uluru and relax on the sands of Bondi Beach – see my full guide to solo travel in Australia !

Related Posts

Australia Solo Travel Guide and Adventure Itinerary (2023)

New Zealand Solo Travel – Adventure Itinerary & Guide (2023)

New Zealand Solo Trip Cost (2023)

More solo travel guides and tips on nomadic yak.

Nomadic Yak helps solo travellers to plan journeys that are adventurous and authentic.

Every article is written by me, Harry . I’ve travelled to 40+ countries over the last 5 years – alone.

For even more information about solo travel in Australia, see our solo travel tips .

We also have destination guides to help you plan solo travel in nearby countries such as New Zealand.

Creator of Nomadic Yak

At age 22, I had never travelled overseas. Six years later, I have travelled alone through 35 countries and work wherever I like as a freelance writer.

Planning a Trip to Australia: Where to Start, When to Go, What to See

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: November 10, 2023

Planning a trip to Australia , but not sure where to start with the preparations for your dream vacation? This article is for you!

Australia is one of those countries that everybody dreams of going to one day. But then the day is finally there and you have not the slightest idea on where to start. Don’t rush to the travel agency just yet! First, figure out what YOU want so that your dream trip becomes a reality!

Below you can find some advice on how to plan Australia trip and make a good trip itinerary. Find out!

How to Plan a Trip to Australia – Our Experience & Tips

We were lucky to have had an opportunity to travel to Australia twice: once as a couple, and ten years later, with our three kids of 3, 3, and 5 years old.

Our first trip to Australia and New Zealand ten years ago was also our first road trip, and there were lots of things we didn’t know . We just booked the most popular road trip itinerary and relied on the road book we got from our travel agent. We saw many amazing places, yet we were disappointed. We went to New Zealand on the same trip as well, and we loved every single day there. So what went wrong in Australia?

We knew that Australia is huge and that driving times can be very long. What we didn’t know is that it is really boring on the road most of the time. Often, there is not much to see in between the places which are well worth visiting.

We saw so many dead kangaroos on the road and black, burned forests that it was even depressing with moments… We visited quite some towns along the Eastern Coast which were really not worth it – at least not for someone who only has 3 weeks in Australia.

So when we were preparing our second Australia trip with kids, we knew that we had to make an itinerary in such a way that it would be fun for the whole family. We were not going to make the same mistake twice!

So here are some general tips and recommendations to help you plan your dream Australia vacation. Read on!

Planning Australia trip – what you need to know in advance

Below you can find some essential tips that will help you plan a trip to Australia. Not just any trip, but a really well-thought-of bucket-list trip that you always dreamt of. Take a look!

How to prepare a good travel plan for Australia

Before you start planning your Australian trip itinerary, you have to figure out the following:

• What are your INTERESTS ? If traveling with kids, make sure to take their interests into account as well.
• WHEN do you want to go?
• HOW MUCH TIME do you have?
• WHERE – which places do you definitely want to see?

1. What do you want to see and do in Australia

The very first thing you have to figure out is what you expect from your trip to Australia. Do you want to see the beaches, go diving or snorkeling? Do you want to visit some cities, or maybe none at all? Or maybe you are mostly interested in beautiful nature and diverse wildlife?

For most people, it’s a combination of all. Still, you have to set priorities.

When we were preparing our trip to Australia with children, we were also struggling to come up with a good plan. We wanted to see as much as possible, but also had to try to estimate how much sightseeing a three- or a five-year-old can actually handle.

In the end, we chose nature destinations and limited city visits to just two days in Sydney and one day in Melbourne . Wildlife and nature are the most important factors for us when traveling with kids, and so we added Kangaroo Island , Tasmania, Great Ocean Road , and some other locations to our itinerary.

We also visited a few wildlife sanctuaries so that the kids could cuddle a koala, feed a kangaroo, and touch a Tasmanian Devil. We didn’t go to a zoo or a theme park as it was not in our interest and also didn’t fit our itinerary. But it might be something you as a family wants to consider, especially if you are passing near such a place anyway.

You are the one who knows your family and their interests best. So make sure that your Australia vacation is fun for everybody!

2. What is the best time to travel to Australia?

You can travel to Australia at any time of the year as long as you choose the right places in the right season. You can either decide on what you want to see and then find out when it’s the best time to go there OR you can select the places to fit your holidays. Just do some research before you book!

Remember that the best times are also the busiest times, so book early and be prepared to pay more. If possible, avoid Christmas and Easter vacations.

Here is a short destination guide to help you decide where to go in Australia and when:

• Sydney can be visited all year round. See our 1-day Sydney itinerary for the must-sees.
• North Australia (Darwin area) is not a good idea in Australian summer as it is also the wet season and the roads are often impassible. The best time to visit is May to October. Here you can find our suggested Darwin itinerary .
• Southern Australia ( Melbourne area, Adelaide, Great Ocean Road , Kangaroo Island …) is probably best visited in the warmer months. By the way, we absolutely loved Kangaroo Island! Here you can read more about our visit to Kangaroo Island .
• Tasmania is a summer destination unless you don’t mind the cold and the wind, or want to go skiing. The best time to visit Tasmania is between November and March. Here you can find more info about things to do in Hobart, Tasmania .
• Red Centre (Alice Springs, Uluru) – can be visited all year round, but it’s VERY HOT and can be very wet in the Australian summer months. It’s a good destination in winter when Europe and the US have long summer holidays, but it will be much busier as well. Here you can find more information about visiting Australia’s Red Centre . The best time to visit the Red Center is from May to September.
• Queensland (The Great Barrier Reef and the East coast between Cairns and Brisbane) is warm all year round, but the summer months are also the wettest. Tropics can be beautiful when it rains. The best time to travel to Queensland is from May to October.
• South-Western Australia (Perth area) is probably best in spring or autumn. Summers are hot and winters – wet. Locals say that August and September are the best months to visit Perth.

3. How much time do you need in Australia?

It’s very important to understand that you cannot see everything in Australia unless you have unlimited time and budget. So be selective when you choose where to go.

The first time we traveled to Australia we had 3,5 weeks and we did a road trip from Cairns to Sydney. Despite the fact that this tour is presented as the most popular way to see Australia by most of the travel agencies, I wouldn’t do it again. I know more people who had a similar trip itinerary and they were all disappointed. Driving time is much too long on this trip, you spend hours in the car, and it’s not like you see the most amazing landscapes or landmarks every day.

In 3-4 weeks time, you can see the Great Barrier Reef, some of the Eastern coast, Sydney and the Blue Mountains, plus some other places like, for example, the Red Centre or the Great Ocean Road. That means you have to fly instead of driving , and that you have to be more selective as to where you go.

TIP: Domestic flights are not necessarily the more expensive option. In fact, it can be cheaper to fly than to spend days on the road. The costs of car rental, fuel, accommodation, and food for the extra days will quickly add up, not to mention the precious time you save.

When you travel to the other side of the world for just a few weeks and you want to actually see some of this diverse continent, you better go to fewer places that are really worth it than to many places which are not as worthwhile . Spend fewer hours driving and more sightseeing!

4. Top places you shouldn’t miss in Australia

In my opinion, you really should try to see Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru (Ayers Rock), and the Great Ocean Road. These are the very best places to keep in mind when planning a trip to Australia.

However, these places are also very far from each other. So it’s not really feasible to see them all if you only have a week or two. Try to pick at least two of these top spots – that way you at least get a taste of what Australia has to offer.

If I had to choose just one place to go to in Australia, I would recommend the Red Centre (Uluru- Kata Tjuta National Park, the Kings Canyon, West MacDonnell Ranges …). It is so very different from all the rest and it’s also what makes Australia so unique. Of course, it’s just my personal opinion, but you really have to experience it in order to understand how special it is. Uluru is not ‘just a rock’.

So, these are our main tips for planning a trip to Australia. To summarize: good trip itinerary stands or falls with these four factors: WHAT, WHEN, HOW LONG, and WHERE. Once you figure that out, the rest is easy.

It goes without saying that the budget is a very important factor as well, but leave the money worries for later, after you figure out your trip itinerary.

Whether you’ll love Australia depends so much on how well you’ll prepare your trip. This is the most important step, so take your time and plan well!

TIP: If you are looking for ideas on where to go in Australia, check this post with our 5-week Australia itinerary . It covers some of the most beautiful regions, some of the must-see places in Australia. Even if you don’t have as much time in Australia, you will get a good idea of what there is to see and how much time you need for each region.

TIP: If you are planning to visit Australia with a family, check out our tips for traveling to Australia with kids .

READ ALSO: Top Places to See on the Great Ocean Road

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Thursday 18th of April 2024

Hi! I planning a trip to Australia, and I only have 10 days total. We're planning to fly into Sydney. But also want to go to Melbourne. I was wondering if I should book a roundtrip to Sydney (with a roundtrip to Melbourne in between)? Or should book a one-way, and then fly home from Melbourne? What's the best way to go about this? I will add that we are looking to fly with Jetstar since it’s the cheapest.

Hi Denise, unless you have a very good reason to do a round-trip to/from the same city, I would definitely fly in and out of different airports (with a domestic flight in-between). That way, you can spend more time sightseeing instead of at the airports and on the planes. Have a great trip!

Adrian Crowson

Wednesday 21st of February 2024

Hopefully when we've sold our business we plan to have 5-6 weeks over there, I take it there's more to see over the east side?

Friday 23rd of February 2024

Hi Adrian, Australia is huge and there's a lot to see all over the country. But the best-known and most popular places are indeed more to the east side, plus also the Red Center, Darwin, Adelaide - Melbourne, Tasmania. I hear good things about Perth, on the west coast, as well. However, the distances are huge so you have to make choices and 5-6 weeks isn't much for such a big country. Trying to see 'everything' will just result in more time spent on planes and in the car than exploring, so pick several areas that interest you the most and spend more time there. Good luck!

michelle battaglio

Monday 8th of January 2024

Hi interested in doing Australia next December I have 13 days to do this. Where do I start and please help me plan an itineray. thank you

Hi Michelle, as you can imagine, there are hundreds of different ways how one could spend two weeks in Australia. Unfortunately, helping craft a truly good itinerary that suits our readers' interests, budget, and travel style would take up much too much of our time. Therefore, we do not offer this service. I suggest that you take a look at our 5-week Australia itinerary. It covers several different regions all over the country. Pick the ones that interest you and you can easily plan your own trip using our detailed suggestions in that article. If you read previous comments under that article, you may find some additional suggestions in there as well. Good luck and have a great time in Australia!

Saturday 30th of December 2023

Hi did you pre-book all your hotels and car rentals and flight before you got to the land of Oz?

Hi Maureen, yes, we always prebook car rentals and accommodations in advance. Usually, we also book tours/excursions before the trip, especially those that we absolutely want to do. It saves you a lot of hassle and is usually much cheaper too. Plus, if you are visiting remote places, there may be very limited options to start with. If you are traveling on your own, in the low season, in popular places with lots of facilities, and have complete flexibility, you can probably just wing it. But otherwise, I would definitely book ahead.

Monday 28th of August 2023

Hi, I’m wanting to go to Australia for the first time for my 60th! It will be for 3 weeks. Would like to go to Sydney but where else should my husband and I visit. We love history, culture, nature! Just don’t know where to start! Please could you advise? Regards Gail

Wednesday 30th of August 2023

Hi Gail, I have covered this info in the article. A lot depends on the season when you visit, your personal preferences, etc. On the first trip, most people visit Sydney (+Blue Mountains), Melbourne (+Great Ocean Road), Red Centre (Uluru), and the area around Cairns (Great Barrier Reef). You may want to take a look at our Australia itinerary for more info, it will give you an idea of what can be done in different parts of Australia. Unfortunately, I really have no time to help our readers with individual trip planning. Good luck with the planning!

• Destinations

Wild Junket

Two Weeks in Australia: The Ultimate Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Last Updated on March 11, 2024

Can you see anything with two weeks in Australia? Hell yeh! Here is the ultimate two-week Australia itinerary.

Let me start with the obvious: Australia is HUGE. It’s a country and a continent, almost as big as USA (not including Alaska).

Australia’s coastline stretches almost 50,000 kilometers and the country has a myriad of landscapes, ranging from tropical rainforests in the north to deserts in the center and mountains in the south.

Of the 130+ countries that I’ve been, Australia has to be one of the most diverse. I’ve traveled all over Australia (on five trips in total), exploring the Top End, South Australia, Sunshine Coast, and Tasmania. For those who have limited time, I’ve compiled the perfect two-week Australia itinerary and guide. 

Table of Contents

Visas for Australia

Travel insurance for australia, how to get to australia, travel australia independently or on guided tours, when to travel australia, cost of travel in australia, the ultimate two-week itinerary in australia, days 1-2: explore the vibrant city of sydney, where to stay in sydney, day 3: day trip to the blue mountains, day 4: wander around the colonial city of melbourne, where to stay in melbourne:, day 5: day trip to phillip island, day 6: day trip to the great ocean road, days 7-8: soak up the sun in cairns, where to stay in cairns:, day 9: day trip to the great barrier reef, day 10: day trip to daintree and cape tribulation, day 11: get to know alice springs, where to stay in alice springs:, day 12: camping trip in uluru, days 13-14: camping trip in kings canyon, day 15: fly back to sydney, victoria & tasmania: for a mix of everything.

• Northern Territory: For Adventure Seekers (my favorite!)

Western Australia: For Family-Friendly Adventures

Queensland: for underwater lovers, travel resources, two weeks in australia.

Australia has a strict visa rule in that every non-citizen must have a visa to enter the country, except for citizens of New Zealand .

Citizens of EU member countries need to obtain an eVisitor visa online before arriving in Australia. This is a free visa for multiple visits to Australia for up to three months at a time within a 12-month period.  Apply here.

Citizens of Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, US, UK and Canada can get an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) online as well. The official website to apply for the ETA is here . It costs AU$20.

It’s important to have travel insurance, regardless of whether you’re in Australia for 2 weeks or 2 months. Travel insurance covers any expenses you might have to fork out for flight delay, trip cancellation, loss of baggage and even accidents.

Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.

The most popular international airport to fly in and out of is the Sydney International Airport.

There are direct flights from Los Angeles LAX to Sydney for under $1000 return and from London Heathrow to Sydney for around 600GBP.

I also recommend making a stopover in Dubai or Singapore to break down your journey to Australia. Many airlines don’t charge an extra fee for the layover.

There are lots of budget airlines that fly from Asia to Australia for just US$200+ return.

Check for flights to Sydney here

How to Travel Around Australia

Since you’ve only got two weeks in Australia, the best way to travel around the country and see as much as possible is by domestic flight. Thankfully airfares to travel within Australia are affordable.

E.g. a flight from Sydney to Melbourne is US$100 return (you can get them as cheap as $50).

Here are the best budget airlines that can get you across Australia:

• Qantas — Australia’s national airline
• Virgin Australia — Affordable luxurious airline
• Jetstar Airways — Australian low-cost airline
• Tigerair Australia — Another budget airline with good deals
• Scoot — Singaporean low-cost airline with cheapest fares

Search for domestic flights here

Australia is most famous for its spectacular national parks and remote islands, and driving is the best way to see them. Renting a car in Australia will set you back at around US$70/day or $160 for a week.

Petrol is particularly expensive in the remote regions such as the Red Centre, at almost $2.80 per liter. 

It is very easy to do road trips in Australia . There are road signs everywhere and they’re in English.  The main thing you need to be careful about when driving in Australia is wildlife. Kangaroos often dash out to the roads especially at night, so be extra alert. Your best bet is to avoid driving at night.

Book Your Car Rental!

Backpackers with lots of time on their hands might prefer to take the bus around Australia. It’s the cheapest option and buses in Australia are comfortable and punctual. Greyhound Australia is the main coach service within this beautiful country. Book your bus tickets here to ensure availability.

You can choose from hop-on and hop-off passes which give you lots of flexibility. Choose your start and end points from the routes, and then enjoy three months to hop-on and off where you please. You have 90 days to complete your travel (or extend to 180 days for a nominal fee) and your first day of travel must commence within 12 months of purchase. You can get the bus passes here.

Australia is safe and easy to travel around on your own. My first trip there was when I was 17 and I backpacked around Australia with a group of friends without any difficulty or challenges. 

If you prefer to travel with a group, check out this 15-Day Outback to the Top End tour with small-group operator G Adventures. I’ve traveled with them many times (to Mongolia, Antarctica, Brazil, Svalbard and Nepal) and can highly recommend them. Every single trip was epic and I’ve made some lifelong friendships on my trips with them.

Another alternative is to travel independently but go on day tours when necessary. You can find a wide range of day trips with prices and reviews at Viator.   They have free cancellations and mobile vouchers which make it really convenient. We did a   three-day camping trip in Uluru and it was the best experience we had in the whole of Australia.

Most day trips in Australia cost around US$100 and upwards. If you book them when you arrive, they’re more expensive at local travel agencies or hotels.

Australia is a huge country, so this really depends on which part of the country you’re planning to travel.

Keep in mind that Australia is in the southern hemisphere so the seasons are reversed to the northern hemisphere. Summer in Australia runs from December to February  and winter goes from June to September.

For our ultimate itinerary below, December to February is the best time to take the trip. The weather will be warm and sunny and temperatures won’t go below 20°C (68°F).

However, it can get very hot in Alice Springs , Northern Territory, with average daytime temperatures around 32 to 36°C (90 to 97°F). This is also peak travel season in Australia so prices are higher.

Winter can be quite cold in Melbourne and Sydney, with temperatures dipping to 7 to 9°C (45 to 48°F). You’ll definitely need to pack warm clothing and a winter coat.

Prices in Australia are quite high, comparable to prices in the US and Western Europe. Expect to pay US$15-25 for a restaurant meal and at least $70 for a standard three-star hotel room.

Renting a car can set you back at around US$70/day or $160 for a week. Petrol is particularly expensive in the remote regions such as the Red Centre, at almost $2.80 per liter. Keep that extra cost in mind as well.

However, there are ways to travel on a budget in Australia. It is quite backpacker-friendly with a strong network of YHA hostels and inter-city bus services.

A bed in a YHA hostel is usually around $25-40 per night, and Greyhound buses are around $50-100 each way (book your flights early and you’ll pay almost the same).

Please keep in mind that this itinerary is designed to help those of you who want to get an overview of Australia in a short time.

The itinerary packs in a lot, so be prepared to be on the go a lot and to spend quite a bit on domestic flights and day trips.

I have included all my favorite states in the itinerary and what I think are the essential areas to explore in Australia. If you’d like to slow down a bit, I would suggest removing one state and extending your stay in the other three states.

Here’s an overview of where the itinerary covers:

• Sydney – 3 days (day-trip to the Blue Mountains)
• Melbourne  – 4 days (day-trips to Phillip Island & Great Ocean Road)
• Cairns – 3 days (day-trips to Great Barrier Reef & Daintree)
• Alice Springs – 4 days (camping trip to Uluru and Kata Tjuta)

Sydney makes a great introduction to Australia, so make sure to spend at least two days exploring Australia’s biggest city. The multi-cultural city has a vibrant and lively flair, and the best places to get a sense of that are the Rocks district and Darling Harbour .

Head to Sydney Tower for a bird’s eye view of the city; you can even walk 250m (820 feet) above the ground on the Observation Deck.  A must-see in Sydney is its most iconic landmark: the Sydney Opera House and the nearby Harbour Bridge. I recommend doing the Sydney Bridge Climb , where you get to climb up the Harbour Bridge with a harness and get fantastic 360-degree panoramas of the city from above. I did that when I was 18 years old and absolutely loved the thrill of it.

Sign up for a bike tour to see some highlights of Sydney or a food tour in Sydney’s historical quarters . Spend an afternoon surfing on Bondi Beach or just people watch at King’s Cross.

In the evening, go on a Sydney harbor sunset dinner cruise for an unforgettable experience.

Budget: Noah’s @ Bondi Beach

This backpackers’ hostel is just a two-minute walk from the surfing hotspot, Bondi beach. It’s got lively vibes, a social atmosphere, and affordable prices. There’s a rooftop BBQ area with unobstructed beach views. Book your stay here!

Another good budget option is Ibis Budget – St Peters, where we stayed at. It is cheaper than Noah’s and offers more privacy than a hostel does. Check the latest prices.

Midrange: Glenferrie Lodge

Housed in a charming historical building, this lodge has an excellent location right next to Sydney Harbour Bridge. It’s located in Kirribilli Wharf, where ferry services to Circular Quay and Sydney Opera House depart regularly. Kirribilli has a nice village atmosphere and lovely Victorian buildings. Book your stay here.

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Boasting the best views of Sydney Harbour, Four Seasons is definitely a top choice for luxury travelers. It has a rooftop pool overlooking Sydney’s CBD and harbor-facing rooms all have spectacular water views. Check the latest rates here.

It’s time to head out to see Australia’s beautiful natural landscapes. An hour west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains is a stunning region with rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and eucalyptus trees.

Katoomba is the biggest town, located on the fringe of the Blue Mountains National Park and its bushwalking trails. For the best views of the famous Three Sisters rock formation, head to Echo Point.

I recommend renting a car for the day or booking a day trip . Each has its own advantage: renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and allows you to seek out secret corners; booking a day tour is easier and you’ll an expert to show you the hiking trails and the best viewpoints. 

Fly to Melbourne, my absolute favorite city in Australia. This multi-faceted city has gorgeous colonial Victorian architecture and a fun city beach. The 1.5-hour flight from Sydney to Melbourne costs around $30-50 one way. 

Kick off your first day in Melbourne by hopping on the City Circle Tram that’s free for everyone. The historical tram travels through Melbourne’s central business district, specifically Flinders, La Trobe, and Victoria Streets. 

Next, stroll through the historic Queen Victoria Market for some fresh Australian produce and arts and craft. Every Wednesday night between November and April, it also plays host to the Night Market.

Then head out to St Kilda, a coastal village just a tram ride away from the city. Here you can ride a paddle board or take a lesson , also explore the nightlife of this place. Luna Park Melbourne is free entry and it’s an excellent spot for families.

Budget: Melbourne Metro YHA

I stayed at this Melbourne YHA on my first trip to Australia when I was 17 and had a blast! It’s a fun and budget-friendly place perfect for those who want to mingle. Located on the city fringe, it has a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Melbourne.  Book your stay here!

Midrange: Hotel Causeway

Housed in an Art Deco building, this boutique hotel is just steps from bustling Bourke Street Mall and the restaurants of Swanston Street. Despite its prime location and good quality accommodation, prices are reasonable. Check the latest rates here.

Luxury: Grand Hyatt Melbourne

Easily the best hotel in Melbourne, Grand Hyatt is perfectly positioned on Collins Street in the heart of Melbourne. Rooms here have views of either Melbourne’s skyline or the Yarra River. It’s well worth checking out the signature restaurant Collins Kitchen, and its stylish, modern bar Ru-Co. Check the latest rates here.

Next day, rise early for a day trip to Phillip Island , home to the world’s largest fur seal colony. Located only 90 minutes from Melbourne, this wildlife island features impressive landscapes and an overload of Australian wildlife.

Visit the Penguin Parade at sunset,   go whale-watching , see koalas at the Koala Conservation Centre, or go on an EcoBoat Tour. Don’t miss the Nobbies outcrop, where you’ll find the Australian fur seals.

I recommend booking this day trip as it includes hotel pickup and entrance to all the above-mentioned centers on Phillip Island. The tour leaves at 13:15 and gets you back to your hotel at 21:00 (from April to September) or 22:30 (from October to March).

For your last day in Victoria, head to the spectacular Great Ocean Road , one of Australia’s most visited destinations. This meandering road snakes its way along the dramatic coastline, revealing unique rock stacks and the lush rainforest of the Otway Ranges (home to quite a few wild koalas).

Driving along the Great Ocean Road makes for one of best road trips in Australia . With so much to see, the Great Ocean Road definitely merits more than one day to explore, but those tight on time will have to make do with a day trip .

From Melbourne, drive west to the start of the Great Ocean Road, passing the coastal towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay. You will also see the iconic Split Point Lighthouse .

Spend some time exploring the Shipwreck Coast and admiring the Loch Ard Gorge. The highlight of the Great Ocean Road is the 12 Apostles (twelve rock stacks rising from the waters). Descend the Gibson’s Steps to the beach, where you will get new perspectives of the enormous offshore stacks and cliffs.

Your next stop is Queensland, the sunshine state full of pristine beaches, castaway islands and miles upon miles of reef. Fly from Melbourne to Cairns for around $100 one way. It’s a 3.5-hour flight. Check for flights here.

Cairns is the liveliest city in Queensland and the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. I recommend spending your first day on the beach and soaking up some sunshine.

Located on the Esplanade is the Lagoon, a lively area to swim and chill. On Sundays, the Lagoon also hosts live music on a temporary stage. Don’t miss the Saturday Esplanade market for local artwork and jewelry.

If you’ve got some extra time, head to the many swimming holes outside of Cairns. Fairy Falls and Crystal Cascades are only a 10-minute drive from Cairns. A bit further away is Ross and Locke where you can go tubing along the rapids – just watch out for crocodiles!

Budget: YAL Cairns

This well-priced budget hotel offers great value for money, with a nice swimming pool and a comfortable outdoor lounge area. All rooms come with air conditioning, microwave, fridge, and shower. This hostel is great for couples and backpackers who are traveling on a budget. Book your stay here!

Midrange: Palm Royale Cairns

Set amidst 2.5 acres of tropical gardens, Palm Royale is a surprisingly affordable resort with two gorgeous pools. The hotel is just a 10-minute drive from the city center. I would definitely stay here again on my next trip to Cairns. Check the latest rates here.

Luxury: Treetops Retreat Cairns

Perched on the treetops of the Crystal Cascades rainforest, this elegant yet rustic retreat is walking distance to swimming holes, hiking trails and waterfalls. The tree house has a spacious deck high in the canopy, with an outdoor pool and a private rainforest spa deck, perfect for star gazing. Check the latest rates here.

On your second day, take a catamaran sailing trip to the Great Barrier Reef for some snorkeling and sailing. The world’s largest coral reef system is made up of nearly 3000 individual reefs sprawled across an area of almost 135,000 square miles (350,000 square kilometers).

During the sailing trip , you’ll get to snorkel at two of 24 authorized reef locations depending on the day’s sea conditions. All of the sites offer exotic marine life like turtles and parrot fish. You’ll also get interpretation talks on board from experts about the reef.

Alternatively, book an eco-adventure day trip to Green Island , a private island resort in the Great Barrier Reef. The island also has a lush rainforest with over 120 native plant species and a rich bird life.

At just 45 minutes from Cairns, Green Island gives you the unique chance to do a combined reef and rainforest tour . . You can explore the island’s lush rainforest on foot, see the reef from the glass bottom boat, or snorkel off the beach.

For your last day in Queensland, head inland on an adventurous day trip to the Daintree Rainforests and Cape Tribulation . Daintree is Australia’s biggest tropical rainforest, and also the oldest rainforest on Earth at 135 million years old. Here you will find kingfishers, lorikeets, tree frogs, and entwining strangler figs.

By foot,   walk through the Daintree and find the point where the rainforest meets the reef at Cape Tribulation. Ditch your hiking shoes and dip your feet in the white sand beaches.

Don’t miss Alexandra Lookout where you can get spectacular views of the Daintree River and the Coral Sea. Cruise along the Daintree River among rainforest jungles, mangroves, and crocodile-infested waters before returning to Cairns.

I have saved the best for last! Australia’s Red Centre is my favorite part of Australia and it’s where the raw and rugged Outback lies. Alice Springs is a small town and the gateway into the Red Centre. As low-cost airlines don’t fly there, airfares are slightly more expensive. A one-way flight from Cairns to Alice Springs costs around $200 on Qantas. 

Just 7km outside of town is the Alice Springs Desert Park , a wildlife sanctuary and botanic garden. Standing at the base of the MacDonnell Ranges, the desert park is a beautiful nature park where kangaroos roam, birds fly overhead, and endangered bilby burrows underground.

You get to see unique Australian animals like the thorny devil, echidna, and bearded dragon. For an interesting experience, sign up for a guided night tour to see rare and endangered animals under the stars.

If you’ve got some extra cash, I recommend treating yourself to a hot air balloon flight in Alice Springs . From the air, the landscape looks different and you get a real sense of the magnitude of the desert. Flights usually take place at dawn so you might need an extra day for this excursion. Read about our experience on a hot air balloon flight in Alice Springs .

Book your hot air balloon flight here!

Budget: Alice Lodge Backpackers

Just 5 minutes’ walk from Alice Springs town center, this great hostel is the best budget place to stay in town. Rooms are clean and spacious, plus they have cheap private rooms. The outdoor swimming pool is a great area to hang out and they organize barbecue nights occasionally. Check the latest rates here.

Midrange: Diplomat Motel

We stayed at this well-priced hotel and highly recommend it to travelers seeking affordable comfort and convenience. It’s located in the center of Alice Springs, just a few minutes’ walk from stores and restaurants. We hung out at the swimming pool in the evening and had a barbecued dinner that night! Check the latest rates here.

Luxury: DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs

As one of the best hotels in town, DoubleTree by Hilton is a luxury resort awarded for its environmental-friendly ethos. The hotel has a beautiful setting, with the MacDonnell Ranges as a backdrop. All rooms have balconies that overlook either the mountains, swimming pool or gardens. Book your stay here!

For some real Australian Outback adventure, head into the Red Centre on a three-day camping tour of Uluru , Kings Canyon and the Kata Tjuta National Park.

This trip is power-packed and you’ll need a medium level of fitness for the walks. They are not technically difficult, but the high temperatures in summer can make them slightly challenging. Check out the trip details here.

You’ll travel around on a sturdy overland truck and your guide will prepare barbecued meals every day. Plus you get to sleep in cozy swags under the stars every night!  We did this camping trip in 2013 and it was definitely THE best experience we had in Australia to date. Read about my experience here.

Next day, you’ll head straight to Kings Canyon for a three-hour hike through the sandstone domes of the Lost City. Admire the many natural amphitheaters and see the North and South walls on the way to the Garden of Eden.

The next day, take a guided walk in the Kata Tjuta or the Olgas and learn about the spiritual significance of the area.

Then visit the Aboriginal Cultural Center and listen to tales from the Tjukurpa Dreamtime. On the last day, watch the sun rise over Uluru, the world’s largest rock.

Do a base walk at Uluru to see beautiful Aboriginal cave paintings. You’ll get back to Alice Springs in the evening of the last day.

Book the camping trip here!

Sadly your trip has come to an end! Fly from Alice Springs to Sydney direct for around $150 one-way, just in time to catch your flight home.

Other Two-Week Itineraries in Australia

Because Australia is such a massive place, you could easily spend two weeks focusing on one particular state in Australia that fits your interest.

Consider what your interests are: do you prefer hiking in the outback or exploring cities? These itineraries will help you narrow down your focus and show you the best in one state. You’ll also save money as you won’t need to book domestic flights to get around.

Here are some examples of two-week itineraries in Australia:

Victoria is a micro-Australia, with dramatic coastlines, outstanding landscapes, wildlife-rich islands, and buzzing beach vibes. This state is great for road trips and a mixture of adventure, urban life, and relaxation.

Tasmania is an outstanding, scenic island that every nature lover needs to visit!

• Visit Melbourne and its Victorian buildings and markets
• Drive along the spectacular Great Ocean Road
• Go wine-tasting in Mornington Peninsula
• Take a day trip to Phillip Island to see penguins and the world’s largest fur seal colony
• Fly to Tasmania, a paradise for nature lovers
• Hike in the famous Cradle Mountain National Park
• Enjoy a wineglass bay cruise and visit its national park

Northern Territory : For Adventure Seekers (my favorite!)

This is where you’ll see the real Outback, where termite mounds rise above the rose red sand and Aboriginal artwork sprawl across ancient rocks. Adventure seekers would love this itinerary as it involves lots of hiking and camping in the deserts.

You can easily do a road trip from Darwin, driving from Australia’s Top End to the Red Centre and flying back from Alice Springs.

• Experience the tropical city of Darwin
• Swim with the mighty saltwater crocodile at Crocosaurus Cove
• Take the ferry to the Tiwi Islands to learn Aboriginal island culture
• Hike amongst waterfalls in Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks
• Camp in the Red Centre to explore Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Parks

Western Australia is the sunniest part of the country as it averages an annual eight hours of sunshine per day. This itinerary is great for families who are looking to get outdoors and experience Australia’s wildlife and beaches.

Read this two-week itinerary of Western Australia for more details or click the links below for day trip ideas.

• Explore the sunny capital of Perth: King’s Park, Cottesloe Beach, and Fremantle
• Take a day trip to Rottnest Island to bike around and see quokkas
• See koalas and kangaroos at Yanchep National Park
• Have a 4WD adventure in the Pinnacles and try sandboarding
• Wine-tasting in Margaret River

The sunshine state is more than just blue skies and never-ending beaches. With five World Heritage Listed sites and the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, Queensland is Australia’s favorite natural playground.

This itinerary is perfect for underwater enthusiasts and those who want to see the lush rainforests and pristine islands of Australia.

• Fly to Cairns, a modern coastal city
• Take a catamaran sailing trip to the Great Barrier Reef for some snorkeling
• Spend a few days on Green Island to dive and explore the coral life
• Explore the rainforests in Daintree and Cape Tribulation on 4WD
• Visit the Chillagoe caves and waterfalls
• Take a historic scenic train to the village of Kuranda nestled within a UNESCO forest

That’s a wrap! Hope you’ve found this Australia itinerary to be useful. Feel free to print it out and bring it with you on your trip. Any trip to Australia is an adventure and a trip of a lifetime. Enjoy the journey!

Over the years (and traveling to 140+ countries), I’ve learned a thing or two about travel planning. I’ve put together this list of travel resources that I personally use to find the best deals and book travel! For more details, check out my travel tips resource page .

• Booking Flights : Kayak is brilliant for finding the best dates to fly as it allows you to search for the lowest airfares within a 3-day period. Then I use Skyscanner as they’ve consistently given me the lowest airfares.
• Accommodations:  I always use  Booking.com   to book hotels, mainly because of the flexible cancellation policy and good customer service. You can also find short-term rental apartments there (I prefer not to use Airbnb due to the extra charges).
• Travel Insurance:  It’s important to have travel insurance, regardless of whether you’re traveling for a few days or months. Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan , which covers any healthcare expenses I may have worldwide. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.
• Health Advice:  I always refer to the travel guides on the   CDC website  for recommended medications and vaccines. You can get them at your travel doctor’s office or a walk-in pharmacy.
• Tours:  If you’re looking for all-encompassing tours, I recommend small-group adventure tour outfitter, G Adventures . I’ve traveled with them to Antarctica, Mongolia, Svalbard, and Nepal, and loved every single trip. For day tours, I always book with  Viator  and  GetYourGuide ; they have easy booking systems and free cancellations.
• Car Rental: I always book car rentals on Discover Cars , as they’ve consistently given us the best rates and customer service (with free cancellations). We’ve used them in Seychelles, South Africa, Spain, Peru, and Mexico.
• Transportation : Whenever possible, I book local transportation online using  Bookaway and Busbud . They’re more reliable than many local transport websites and cover trains, buses, and car hire.
• Restaurants: TripAdvisor is my go-to resource for restaurant reviews and bookings. I also make restaurant reservations on OpenTable .
• Travel WiFi: I always travel with my Travel WiFi Sapphire 2 device; it’s the most convenient way to get internet data on the go. Instead of getting a local SIM card in every country I travel, I get an internet data package online and the device works immediately when I land.

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Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 140 countries across 7 continents. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Her work has appeared in many major publications including BBC Travel, CNN and LonelyPlanet.com. Read more about her here and get more life updates from her on her Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

I love this post so much – but it’s making me homesick!! I’ve just realised how little of my own country I’ve seen.

Andy Shuman

Excellent post, Nellie. It’s going to be helpful for my first trip to Australia when I finally get down to it. One thing though: Are you sure that Scoot can carry passengers on domestic flights in Australia. I’m quite sure that would be a violation of anti-cabotage rules.

hi Andy, good to know you find it useful! Yes Scoot does run domestic flights in Australia. I’ve just double checked. Scoot is a Singaporean budget airline – I flew them once to Taipei and they were really good. I’m not sure about the anti-cabotage rules though, sorry can’t be of much help there!

Stunning captures! In love with the blue mountains. Cheers!

Looks like an amazing place to explore. Loved it.

Jean-Robert Corvington

Hi Nellie! Great recommendations for our first trip to Australia. What if you only have 10-12 days and are flying out of Melbourne on the return? We are also wine lovers and would love at least a 1 night camping experience. We’ll be landing first in Sydney so we can easily follow the first part of the trip. What should we skip or add?

hi Jean-Robert! Thanks for dropping by! If you only have 10-12 days, I would recommend spending your time mostly in Sydney and Melbourne. There are loads to do in and around both cities. For wine lovers, I recommend checking out Yarra Valley near Melbourne, it’s a very popular place for Australians. You can also easily book an adventure/camping trip along the Great Ocean Road. Many people drive that, but you can also hike it and do short walks. Hope this helps!

good info. it just drive me crazy. that y i love to travel. travel more to see more. cant wait to visit Australia again. thanks. cheers!.

Gill Solnick

thanks this is a really exciting and helpful site. We are going to Sydney for a wedding and would love to find a sane itinerary for the old but adventurous.

Hi Nellie, what a great site! So lucky to see your recoms before my first trip to Australia in 3 weeks. I ll definitely do some day trips u recommended. I got days from 19/12/19 to 02/01/20. I was planning to stay in Sydney for 4 days and then flying to Melbourne and staying there for another 3-4 nights. Then I dont know where I should go for another 3 days and fly back to Sydney on 30th to see New Year fireworks. Any recommendation for me? Thank you so much.

Hey Joy, thanks for the comment! It depends on your interest. Check out the last part of my article. I share more 2-week itineraries based on your interests. If you’re into hiking and camping, then I definitely recommend the Red Center in Alice Springs.

Carol Bracey

Hello Nellie: Great information on Australia. Three fairly active seniors are planning a trip for about 15 days in April next year 2023. We love nature, wildlife, cultural adventures, and other non-strenuous experiences. Would you change or add anything in your recommendations for 2 week tours? Carol Bracey

hi Carol, thanks for dropping by! :) I have packed in ALOT to this itinerary. If you prefer to slow it down, I would suggest removing the Cairns (Queensland) part of the itinerary. The Uluru part of the trip is spectacular and it’s my favorite part of Australia, full of nature and interesting aboriginal interactions – but it would involve more hiking and strenuous activity. As long as you’re active and mobile, I think you’ll do just fine. Plus, you can sign up for a tour that doesn’t require camping or too much hiking to make things easier. Hope this helps!

Thank you but.. hiking compass in (almost) 2023? I wonder, what year was the original article written?

The original article was published 3 years ago. Many backcountry hikers prefer to rely on a hiking compass than phone because it never runs out of battery (unlike a phone) and is far more accurate.

Hi Nellie, thank you so much for the post!! I’m planning my first trip to Australia and this was super helpful. Do you happen to have any other recommendations for the 3 day camping trip to Uluru, Kings Canyon, and Kata Tjuta? The link you’ve provided didn’t lead to that tour. Thank you!!

hi Rachel, oh sorry the link is not working. I will update it. We actually traveled with Wayoutback Safaris on this tour . You can read about our experience here .

Thank you Nellie for this wonderful information. My husband, daughter and I are planning a trip in January 2025 and we were wondering about the 3 day camping trip alternative as well. The trip sounds so amazing however, the link does not appear to be the 3 day trip any longer.

hi Jo, sorry about that, I’ll update the link. I’ve sent some suggestions below. Hope you guys get to go on a camping trip at Uluru/Kata Tjuta. It was the highlight for us!

Thanks for the post. When I asked for advise on trip advisor they said the itinerary is too busy and can not enjoy all of above in 2 weeks.

Did you do all of this in 2 weeks? If you did, then its doable and I can do it too in last week of May/Early June.

Any alternatives to camping as I don’t like to sleep in tent. I like hotel rooms with out own restroom.

I don’t mind doing day trips to experience camping?

I don’t think there is nay place for Brisbane in this itinerary?

hi Sam, yes we did it in 2 weeks. It’s definitely pretty intense and if you’re the kind who like to chill and relax, it might not be for you. But if you like to pack your itinerary fully and see as much as possible, then it’s totally doable. There are definitely hotels and guest houses available in the outback, you don’t have to camp if you don’t want to. There’s no room for Brisbane I’m afraid; I went to Brisbane on a separate trip and had a great time in the Gold Coast but if it’s your first time in Australia, I think it’s ok to skip Brisbane.

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Ultimate guide to travelling around Australia and planning your Australia holidays

17 Jan, 2020 | Discover Australia

I LOVED planning our first trip to Australia back in 2008. I used to spend hours reading my Australia travel guide books with a notepad. We actually organised our backpacking trip because we had an inkling that we might want to move to Australia or New Zealand so our plan was to explore both and to see if anywhere felt like it could be our future home.

There are lots of people in my Move to Australia Facebook group who are doing similar things at the moment. Some are planning a recce trip to Australia to work out whether a permanent move to Australia is right for them. Others have applied for their Australian visa already and want to come to Australia to decide which city in Australia is right for them, or they’re coming to Australia to validate their visa and begin looking for jobs and checking out Australia destinations and suburbs. Whatever the reason for your Australia holiday – be it the trip of a lifetime to Australia or a holiday with the intention of moving to Australia – this post will help you plan your holiday to Australia.

This post contains affiliate links which means the site earns a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through some of these links. Our full disclosure is available in the footer. 

Table of Contents

Visit Australia: How to plan a trip to Australia

Australia travel guide books.

First things first: You can follow all of the websites and Instagram accounts, but nothing helps you plan your trip to Australia quite like a good Australia guide book . I still buy Rough Guides and Lonely Planet guide books – I love nothing more than a dog-eared travel guide book with highlighted sections, folded pages and underlined sections.

A solid Australia guide book helps you work out where you want to go in the country, gives you a map of states so you can see how close/far away things are and also covers a whole host of extra info like time zones, what events to look out for and all kinds of cultural information.

>> Shop for Australia guide books on Amazon UK >> Shop for Australia guide books on Amazon US >> Shop for Australia guide books on Amazon Australia

Australia trip planner: Where to go in Australia?

Deciding where to go on your trip to Australia is a tricky one as Australia is so vast and there are so many places to visit in Australia. Where you visit in Australia also depends on your goals for your trip to Australia.

For instance…

Are you planning a recce to see if you might want to move to Australia?

If you’re travelling around Australia to do research to see whether you might want to move here, make sure you spend your time and money wisely. Narrow down the cities you want to explore and try not to cram too much into your schedule. From my experience since starting this blog and my Facebook community, most people coming on a recce trip to Australia come for three or four weeks and they tend to visit two or three cities (but there are no hard and fast rules)! Generally, it is easier to fly between cities as there is quite a distance between them and, if time is short, you will want to maximise your time checking out potential places you might want to live.

If you’re coming on a recce trip to Australia, try to narrow down the Australia destinations you want to visit so you can be really focused. If you haven’t thought about where you might like to live yet, think about the weather, house prices, jobs, lifestyle, beaches, day trip options, arts and culture and transport. All cities offer something different.

Plan your Australia trip carefully before you work out how to fly to Australia. Once you know where you want to visit, you can begin thinking about where you want to fly into and out of and what internal flights you might need. For instance, you may be able to fly into Sydney and fly back out of Brisbane without it costing you any more.

If you have time to explore and you want to see if the Australian lifestyle is for you, then an Australia road trip could be the answer. You can hire a car or motorhome and drive between cities (you can usually pick up in one location and drop off in another). This is how we explored Australia when we did our Australia tour. Personally, I love travelling by motorhome and think it’s a great way to explore on your own terms but to do it, you need to have enough time.

>> Get a quote for a hire car here from Drive Away

Thinking of hiring a motorhome? Get a quote from Motorhome Republic below…

Are you planning to find the best places to visit in Australia for an epic Australia holiday of a lifetime?

Maybe you aren’t visiting to see if you want to live in Australia – you’re just planning a trip to Australia to see all of the best Australia destinations! There are some very cool places to visit in Australia and narrowing these down will come down to what you want to spend your time in Australia doing. Do you want to visit the best beaches in Australia? Explore Australia’s best cities ? See some of Australia’s famous landmarks ? Check out some of Australia’s national parks ?

The first question to ask yourself is this: Do you want to be mainly based in a static location like one of the major cities and explore locally from there?  A city like Sydney is great for this as there is so much to do within a few hours of the city.

Or are you looking to take an Australia road trip to explore a lot of destinations? Australia offers some of the world’s best road trips and it’s an incredible way to see the country driving from one point to another.

>> Get a quote for a hire car here from Drive Away <<

Where to go in Australia is totally up to you and it will depend on what you want to see, your budget and how much time you have to spare. Remember: 2 weeks in Australia will go quickly if you spend time travelling between destinations. If you are short on time, consider flying between your destinations to cut down on the travel time. If you want to see everything, you’re going to need to consider breaking it up into a few trips – you could come to Australia for three weeks every couple of years to do a different section of the country.

The key is, don’t try to see and do too much in a short a time. Your Australia trip will end up feeling rushed and it won’t be enjoyable. Travelling around Australia should be fun – it’s about taking your time to explore, to meet the people, to see the landmarks and take the Australia tours that you’ll remember forever. Less is more when planning your Australia tour!

Best places to visit in Australia

There are some incredible landmarks and destinations to visit in Australia – it’s impossible to say which are the best places to go in Australia. The Great Barrier Reef, the Ningaloo Reef, the Great Ocean Road, Uluru, Whitehaven Beach, Brisbane’s South Bank, Sydney Opera House, Perth’s King’s Park, there are wine regions and national parks, bustling shopping destinations, museums, art galleries, canyons, creeks and so much more…Australia is vast and there is something for everyone here. If you’re taking a road trip, Australia is perfect as it means you can fit in so many places to go. Australia is a destination for you to create your ultimate holiday of a lifetime.

You don’t need to see all of it in just one trip! Brainstorm the things you know you want to see and group them together into areas so you can see if an obvious destination in Australia jumps out to you for your Australia itinerary.

Australia travel tips: Plan your budget in Australia

Your travel budget in Australia will depend on what type of travel you plan on doing. You can stay in hostels in Australia cheaply (from $15 – $30 a night approx. for shared facilities). Basic private rooms or cheap hotels in Australia booked through booking.com can come in from about $110 a night for two people per night depending on where you’re staying. You get what you pay for though, and while I used to get swayed on cheap accommodation prices in Australia, I now look to spend a bit more when we travel to get a higher quality of accommodation. Expect to pay more for rooms that accommodate more guests like family rooms or apartments with two or three bedrooms.

>> Check out accommodation on booking.com here

Eating out in Australia can be good value or expensive, depending on where you go! You can grab a Dominos pizza for as little as $5 (these are smaller than UK pizzas but still a great price!). A meal in a cafe or bar is likely to set you back $12 – 25. A take away burrito and drink is around $13. A loaf of bread is around $1 – 4 depending on whether you go for supermarket cheap brands or more expensive brands.

How much money do you need to travel in Australia? People say it is possible to travel on $50 a day in Australia and while you don’t need a lot of money for food in Australia (if you buy your food from Woolworths, Coles or Aldi you can live quite frugally), you would miss out on tours and attractions if your budget was that tight. It all comes down to the sort of travel you want to do. For me, taking tours in Australia is a big part of the travel experience. Most of my memories of travelling in Australia are of the tours we took and the attractions we visited – to Lady Musgrave Island, to the Barrier Reef, to Fraser Island, to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary…these were also the things we did that meant our budget quickly went way above $50 a day!

You are likely to find that you spend the bulk of your Australia travel budget on transport, tours and attraction tickets so if you have more money in your budget, you’ll be able to have more experiences. Try your best to shop around for discounted tickets and tours to make your money go as far as possible. Also, booking things online in advance can save money on door prices too.

Travel insurance for your Australia trip

Travel insurance for your Australia trip is essential. If you’re visiting Australia from a country with a reciprocal agreement, you still need to be covered by travel insurance! What would happen if you got injured in transit while changing planes? What if you were in a serious accident in Australia and needed to be flown home? What if all of your luggage was stolen? There are so many things that could happen, so you need a simple and flexible travel insurance policy to cover your Australia trip.

Book your Australia travel visa

It’s usually quick and easy to organise your visa online for your Australia holiday. Visit the Home Affairs website to get started with your Australia travel visa. This site will walk you through your options. There are visas for staying less than three months on holiday, or options for staying for six or 12 months. Please make sure you apply for the visas on the official government site – there are sites out there trying to sell you visas for travel to Australia so make sure you are obtaining your visa from the right place.

>> Get your Australian visa here.

Plan your airport transfers at either end

When you arrive in Australia, you’ll be exhausted from the long flight. It’s a good idea to pre-book an airport pickup through a company like Experience Oz or  SunTransfers even if you are hiring a car or motorhome. This means you don’t need to worry about waiting in line at a taxi rank when you land after a long and tiring flight to Australia and you can get to your hotel to relax and catch up on some sleep before you need to drive. Sun Transfers and Experience Oz offer airport transfers to your hotel or Air BnB taking some stress out of the journey at either end of your holiday.

When is the best time to visit Australia?

If you’re wondering when is the best time to go to Australia, it depends what kind of things you plan on doing, where you’re travelling in Australia and what weather you enjoy!  Personally, I love it in Australia from September – April when the weather is hot and sunny. It’s also more volatile during that time though with more storms. The weather cools down from May – August.

Further north it can get sticky and humid in peak summer (January and February) which isn’t always fun, and in the south if can get freezing cold in winter (June/July/August)! If you’re coming to ski, then cold is good but if you want the beach and outdoor pools then summertime is when you want to come.

Think about what it is you want to do and where you will be going in Australia as a starting point. If you want to explore the cities rather than enjoy the sun, then spring, winter or autumn might be perfect for you. If you’re taking a motorhome road trip, you might want to avoid winter as nights can be cold. The best time to travel to Australia depends on so many things!

>> Read this post about the weather in Australia here to find out about essential weather resources

>> Check out this post about being ready for a bushfire emergency

Also consider the school holidays in Australia. Australia’s school holidays will be at different times to your school holidays, and also even different states have different holiday dates (and different public holiday dates too). Google: ‘School holidays Queensland/Victoria’ etc. to find out the dates for the state schools in that state.

In planning your trip to Australia, you also need to be aware that Australia has different time zones! It can often catch tourists out, especially when you’re driving on an Australia road trip . You can easily miss driving across a state line, and suddenly you can find yourself an hour ahead of where you were one minute earlier! So make sure you check out what time is it in Australia in the state you’re in and the state you are travelling into – it caught us out when we were driving between New South Wales and Queensland (half the year these states are on different time zones as Queensland doesn’t observe daylight saving). It’s especially important if you’re staying around the state line and doing tours or visiting attractions across in the other state!

Should you plan a stopover on your way to Australia?

I often get asked by people who are planning a trip to Australia whether they should organise a stopover on the way to Australia. Especially if you’re travelling with little ones, a long flight to Australia can be really daunting. Read this post about how to travel long haul with kids .

I don’t think there is a right or wrong answer. If you’re short on time and/or budget, then stopping over for a few days can cut your Australia trip shorter and leave you with less money to spend on the things you want to do. But if time and budget don’t matter, then stopping over somewhere can be a great travel experience and give you all a break from the plane.

If a stopover is a luxury you can’t afford, consider investing in an inflatable foot pillow so your kids can sleep in transit. Read about your options for foot pillows in this post .

If you’ve decided to have a layover, booking.com is my recommended site for checking out hotel prices around the world >> Shop for stopover hotels here

How will you get around in Australia?

Public transport isn’t as comprehensive as it is in the UK where I come from. If you plan on travelling between cities you have a few options: hire a car, hire a campervan or motorhome, get a bus (like Greyhound or a bus that serves the route you want to travel like the Byron Bay to Brisbane bus services) or fly. Trains can work for some journeys, but it depends on where you are and where you’re heading. You’ve also got options of taxis and Uber to go shorter distances.

Which mode of transport in Australia is best for you will depend on the type of trip you’re doing.

Choosing between hiring a car and hiring a motorhome is just a matter of preference. When you have a motorhome, you have the option to free camp but you’re much more likely to stay in campsites (this means you have hook ups to use the air conditioning for most of the year or the heater in winter!) and it means the cost of the motorhome hire + the cost of your pitch doesn’t really save you any money compared with the cost of a hire car and cheap motels or basic cabins at campsites.

Think about the bigger picture – for us, we chose a motorhome as we only wanted to unpack once and we wanted to be able to go where we wanted when we wanted. Often, we’d rock up to incredible beaches early and then cook breakfast. It meant we could enjoy the beach and then go back to our motorhome for coffee or lunch. The downside of travelling by motorhome is that it’s big and bulky and you need to drive it to places for your days out (which means securing all of your things every time). That said, Australia is so set up for travelling with a caravan or motorhome – we didn’t once struggle for parking whe we were travelling – attractions tend to have a section for motorhomes.

A car is really convenient as you can just hop in and go and it means you can organise accommodation as you go. Fuel is cheaper in a car too.

Both have pros and cons when travelling in Australia and it depends on what type of travel experience you’re searching for.

>> Get a quote for a hire car in Australia from Drive Away >> Get a quote for a motorhome in Australia from Motorhome Republic

Travel with children

If you’re travelling with young children, you need to be aware of car seat safety rules in Australia as they are strict and car seats from other countries aren’t often compatible with the safety requirements here. >>  Read this post for more information .

Hire for Baby offers a range of items for holiday hire such as car seats, buggies and sleep solutions. These can be collected from the airport or they can be waiting for you at your hotel. >> Check out Hire for Baby for more information. 

It is a really good idea to hire from a specialist like this as if you hire car seats from most car hire firms, they will expect you to install the seat yourself and sometimes the standards (and cleanliness of the seats) can be questionable.

Plan accommodation for your Australia trip

Accommodation is easy to book online in Australia (unless it is a public holiday, in which case try to book early) Booking.com is really easy to use and you can check out availability and make instant bookings of hostels, hotels and apartments.

>> Check out accommodation on Booking.com here

If you plan on staying somewhere for a few days or weeks, Air BnB is a brilliant option. If you’re travelling with your family, it also means you’ll have more space and a kitchen so you can cook. You might have a washing machine too which is handy for keeping on top of your laundry.

Do you need any special vaccinations to travel to Australia and are there any health issues to be aware of?

Australia is a safe country. Check with your GP to see if your vaccinations are all up to date and if there are any they recommend you get updated. Also, consider if you’re taking a stopover somewhere as you may need other vaccinations for that destination.

>> Smart Traveller has some useful advice on vaccinations

The sun in Australia is fierce, so you need to be prepared to wear a high quality sunscreen and hats when you’re outside. I recommend wearing reef-safe zinc sunscreen and rash vests when you’re at the beach/in the pool. Read this post for more information

>> Shop for mosquito bands on Amazon UK >> Shop for mosquito bands on Amazon US >> Shop for mosquito bands on Amazon Australia

Travelling Australia: Where to start

It can be tricky when you start to plan a trip to Australia. I get lots of messages from people who are trying to work out where to visit in Australia. Places to visit here are so varied and also they’re so far apart! I haven’t been around the entire country yet – one day I dream of doing a big lap one day and seeing ALL OF IT!

My main advice is to just make a start planning your trip to Australia – think about what you want from the trip, how long you have available to visit Australia and what your budget is and take it from there to work out how much you can realistically fit into your Australia itinerary. Even a three-week trip can be packed with life-changing experiences if you take in the top places to visit in Australia.

I hope you found this article about planning a trip around Australia helpful. Safe travels!

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Privacy Overview

The ultimate guide to getting around Australia

Oct 24, 2023 • 9 min read

A road trip is a highlight of a visit to Australia, but there are other great ways to travel too © pixdeluxe / Getty Images

Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world, with very different regions and climates. Deciding where to go – and how to get there – requires some major planning.

At first glance, flying and train fares in Australia look expensive (and a lack of competition does mean there are few bargains), but when you compare car rental, insurance, fuel and accommodation costs, a flight from Sydney to Perth suddenly looks a little more appealing.

If you don't have time to spare, you're likely to rely on internal flights to cover large distances – an alternative is to focus your trip on one region.

When deciding on the best way to get around Australia, weigh up how much time you have, what level of luxury you require and the carbon footprint you want to leave behind.

If you're short on time, you'll need to take internal flights

Flying is the only way to do more than one state on a shorter stay. Australia's main domestic airlines service major cities and key tourist sites – like Yulara for Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park – with regular flights. Major players are Jetstar , Qantas  and Virgin Australia .

Traveling by long-distance bus is a great budget option

Australia's extensive bus network is a reliable way to get between towns and cities, but distances are often vast, so be prepared for long days or nights. Most Australian buses are equipped with air-conditioning (essential in summer), comfortable seats and toilets; all are smoke-free, and some have wi-fi and USB chargers. Ask about hop-on hop-off fares, which give you more flexibility. Some operators also offer discounted fares for seniors, students and children.

The main bus companies in Australia are Greyhound Australia , Firefly Express , Integrity Coach Lines (in Western Australia), Premier Motor Service (NSW) and V/Line in Victoria, which runs a mix of buses and trains.

Another way to get around by bus is on a tour. Some offer the whole package, including accommodation and meals; others are less formal options to get from A to B and see the sights on the way. Popular outfits running coach tours include AAT Kings , Adventure Tours Australia , Autopia Tours  and  Untamed Escapes .

Explore Australia on an epic train journey

Long-distance rail travel in Australia is something you do because you really want to − not because it's cheap, convenient or fast. That said, trains are more comfortable than buses, and there's a certain "romance of the rails" that's alive and well in Australia. The most notable long-distance rail journeys in Australia are the Indian Pacific between Sydney and Perth, the Overland between Melbourne and Adelaide, Great Southern between Brisbane and Adelaide, and The Ghan between Adelaide and Darwin via Alice Springs.

Intra- and inter-state trains operators include Queensland Rail , which runs the high-speed Spirit of Queensland service between Brisbane and Cairns; NSW TrainLink from Sydney to Brisbane, Melbourne and Canberra; and V/Line within Victoria, which links up with coach connections into NSW, SA and the ACT.

Road-tripping in Australia is an amazing experience

Whether you're focusing your visit on one state or several, exploring Australia by road is the ultimate way to discover this vast nation. For 4WD or motorcycle adventures, you'll also need specialist skills, guidebooks, maps and equipment. 

Choosing whether to hire a vehicle or buy one will depend on the length of your stay and how far you’re traveling. Here are the pros and cons to consider in the hire vs buy debate:

Hiring a car or camper means you've got a reliable vehicle

For a shorter trip, car rental is probably more cost-effective – you’ll get a newer, safer and more reliable vehicle. If you have any issues, you get roadside support, and your costs are fixed at the daily car hire rate. Large rental companies have offices in major cities and airports, and most require drivers to be over the age of 21 (sometimes 25). It’s slightly more expensive to do a one-way hire.

Campervans are also available for rent, which would cover some of your accommodation costs. You still need to pay to overnight at campsites or find designated spots where you can free camp. Australia-based companies that hire campervans include Apollo , Britz , Hippie Camper , Jucy , Maui , Mighty Campers , Spaceships  and Travelwheels . To compare car hire deals, go to CarHire.com .

All the usual advice applies for car and van hire. Read the contract. Understand the small print, including accident excess cover (you can buy your own separately, but you may need to put down a large "holding" deposit with the car hire firm). Make sure all your drivers have the appropriate driving licenses and travel insurance. Always thoroughly inspect the vehicle before leaving and note any pre-existing damage. Given the scale of Australia, you should ask for unlimited kilometers as you’re most likely going to travel big distances. Find out if you can take the vehicle on unsealed roads.

Buying a car or a van might be best for longer trips

Buying your own vehicle gives you the freedom to go where and when your mood takes you and may work out cheaper than renting in the long run. The downsides of DIYing are the admin costs and repairs.

When you buy a vehicle in Australia, you need to transfer the registration (Aussies call it "rego," of course) into your own name within 14 days. Each state has slightly different requirements. When selling a vehicle, you need to advise the state or territory road-transport authority of the sale and change of ownership name. If you just don’t change the registration or give the vehicle away, you’ll still be liable for subsequent fines and future rego certificates from the new owners.

Sellers are required to provide a roadworthy certificate when transferring registration in most states. If the vehicle you're considering doesn't have a roadworthy certificate, ask for one before you agree on the price. This can cost $100 but will save you money on unknown repair costs. Road transport authorities have lists of licensed vehicle testers. Note that registering a vehicle in a different state from the one it was previously registered in can be time-consuming and more expensive, something to be aware of when planning to sell at the end of your trip.

It's prudent to have a vehicle checked by an independent expert before you buy it, and state-based automobile clubs (for example, the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria) offer vehicle checks. Road transport authorities (RTAs) have lists of licensed garages you can book directly. 

Five common driving hazards you need to know

There are a lot of things to think about when hitting the road in Australia. Here are five risks you need to keep in mind.

1. There may be animals on the road, particularly at night

Many Australians avoid traveling once the sun goes down because of the risks posed by nocturnal animals on the roads. Kangaroos are common on country roads, as are cows and sheep in the unfenced outback. Kangaroos are most active around dawn and dusk and often travel in groups – if you see one hopping across the road, slow right down, as its friends may be just behind it. If you injure an animal while driving, you can call the local wildlife rescue line, which is sometimes signposted along the route. 

2. Drive slowly and carefully on dirt roads in the countryside 

Unsealed road conditions vary wildly depending on the road and the weather. Cars and vans perform very differently on dirt when braking and turning corners. Don't exceed 60kph (37mph) – if you go faster, you won't have time to respond to a sharp turn, animals on the road or an unexpected pothole. A wet dirt road means mud and can quickly become impassable – something to keep in mind if traveling in tropical northern Australia during the summer "wet season" (November to April).

3. Look out for "road trains" on the highways

A lack of rail infrastructure in Australia means you’re likely to cross paths with road trains (trucks with two or three trailers stretching for as long as 50m) on the highway. Overtaking is risky. On single-lane roads in more remote places, get off the road when a truck approaches; they don’t slow down for cars. Stones or debris can clip your car as it passes, so get as far out of the way as possible.

4. Fill up with fuel at every chance in remote areas

In cities and towns, service stations are plentiful, but distances between fill-ups can be huge in the countryside – pay attention to your fuel gauge and those yellow road signs announcing the next roadhouse. Filling your tank whenever you can is the best precaution, especially if you need to take a diversion thanks to a flooded road or some other weather-related event. Electric recharging spots are popping up all over Australia, making hybrid and electric road trips a viable alternative.

5. Do not ignore tiredness when driving  

Be wary of driver fatigue; driving long distances (particularly in hot weather) can be utterly exhausting, and falling asleep at the wheel is a very serious risk. Stop and rest regularly − do some exercise, change drivers and have a coffee. Do not drive if you’re feeling drowsy.

Drive responsibly and minimize your impact

If you’ve committed to buying a car or van and driving around Australia, there are some ways to minimize your environmental impact on your journey:

• Ensure your vehicle is well-serviced and tuned.
• Travel lightly and drive slower to reduce fuel consumption.
• Stay on designated roads and vehicle off-road tracks (if you’re 4WDing).
• Don't drive on walking tracks, and avoid driving on vegetation. Cross creeks at designated areas.
• Always take all your rubbish if you’ve been camping overnight.
• Consider ride-sharing with fellow travelers where possible.

Road trip around Australia on this 3-month-long itinerary 

You have a 90-day tourist visa and want to see all of Australia, right? It’s not possible to see everything , but you can conceivably do both coasts and the outback if you’re prepared to keep moving (ideally taking turns behind the wheel with travel companions if you're driving this route). 

We suggest you begin in Perth . Drive the west coast via Albany (to the south), then up to Broome via Ningaloo and the Pilbara and over to Darwin . Turn south through Alice Springs and detour via Uluru . Continue straight down the Stuart Highway to Adelaide , then make your way to Melbourne , either inland or via the more scenic coast. Now you’ve got about a month to six weeks to get to far north Queensland via the beaches of southern New South Wales, the waterfalls inland from Byron Bay and the Daintree rainforest north of Cairns . If you skip Sydney and Brisbane (you’ll be dusty by now, and finding places to park is a pain), you can always pop back via bus or plane after you’ve offloaded your vehicle – which has just had an extra 20,000km (12,400 miles) added to its mileage.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated October 2023

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The Best Solo Travel Tours For Over 50 and Seniors in Australia

As much as I love travelling around Australia alone, I’d recommend visiting many places in Australia on tours. Certain regions are hard to reach or bring complications that aren’t worth dealing with. With an Australian solo travel tour for those over 50, you don’t have to worry about a thing. Sit back and enjoy the experience.

Table of Contents

Why go on a Group Tour For over 50 in Australia?

Exploring Australia on Tour is part of any travel solo in the BIG country. While Travelling Solo in Australia is the most exciting thing you can do, it can sometimes be challenging, even for the most experienced soloist.

Reasons to join small group tours for seniors in Australia 50+

There are many good reasons for going on group tours if you are single and over 50. Here are the three main positive reasons for going on tour in Australia:

• Many single travellers after 50 prefer joining organised guided tours to travelling alone in Australia. It comes with no work since the tour company takes all the work off you and they plan, organise and look after every aspect of the trip.
• Seniors and retired solo travellers want to get to know new people and love travelling with a small group of like-minded travellers. It also offers an opportunity to break from a solo adventure in Australia. And create a bond with people of the same age group, which may turn into friendships.
• The opportunity to see remote places : some remote regions in Australia can only be accessed by local tour operators and indigenous people who can guarantee the conservation of those fragile ecosystems.

How to choose the best-guided tours in Australia for seniors and 50+

When choosing the right tour for your 50+ adventure travel in Australia, I recommend using comparison websites Get Your Guide (for day trips) or TourRadar (for multi-day trips). Check what the tours include and don’t and whether they match your group size and travel style criteria. Also, read reviews on social media or TripAdvisor before booking a tour for an honest assessment of the experience other travellers had.

The Australian Outback is one of those places where you’re better off going on a guided tour. The Outback isn’t just a single region in Australia. Instead, it’s a name for the remote areas with little population and overwhelming nature. It covers about 75% of the country, so there are plenty of opportunities for an Australian Outback Tour from any large city. The Outback is a destination that’s hard or impossible to explore on your own, especially if you don’t have any 4WD experience. If you book just one tour during your trip, this should be it.

Outback Tours in Central Australia (Red Centre)

For many people, the Australian Outback is a synonym for the Red Centre . You might imagine a remote destination, and it is, but because of Australia’s symbol, Ayer’s Rock, you don’t even need a 4WD to get to Uluru from Alice Springs . Going on a tour in the Red Centre will allow you to dive deeply into the Aboriginal culture and the wilderness of King’s Canyon and the West MacDonnell Ranges. Here are the Uluru Tours we recommend:

Uluru Tours

Uluru, the gorgeous monolith known as Ayers Rock, might be Australia’s most famous symbol. On a day tour, you’ll watch the sunset over Uluru and admire the indigenous paintings at Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre. On more extended tours, you’ll also explore Kings Canyon and the West MacDonnell Ranges.

Uluru Guided Trek Of Ayers Rock Base (day trip)

5 Days Outback Highlights (Yulara/Yulara)

Red Centre & Uluru Explorer (Yulara/Alice Springs, 6 days)

Larapinta Trek (West MacDonnell Ranges)

I recommend joining a small-group guided tour to make the Larapinta Trek, a 223 km long trail from Alice Springs to Mount Sonder—one of the best walking experiences in the world through the rugged desert landscape.

Classic Larapinta Trek (Alice Springs/return 6 days)

Outback Adventure from Darwin to Uluru (Darwin/Uluru 9 days)

North West Australia Kimberley Tours

One of the most impressive Outback adventures in Australia is the Kimberley . It’s almost impossible to explore this area alone, even if you are an expert four-wheel driver. And even then, there’s always a significant risk of damaging the rental car or getting flat tyres (not uncommon when driving in Australia ). Tours are the better option here, ranging from shorter 5-day trips to extended tours that take nearly a month. I went on an 8-day epic camping trip crossing the Kimberley from Broome to Kununurra .

Kimberley Tours

Broome to Kununurra Kimberley Tour (Broome/Kununurra; 9 days)

Kimberley Off-Road Adventure Darwin Broome (Darwin/Broome; 10 days)

Kimberley Complete Tour (Broome/Broome; 15 days)

Broome to the Bungle Bungles (Broome/Broome; 5 days)

Western Australia Tours

Outback tours in Western Australia are typically overland from Perth to Exmouth or Broome . Along the way, there’s time to explore the many beautiful sights of the region.

Tours From Perth

Perth To Exmouth Explorer Tour  (Perth return, 7 days)

Perth To Exmouth Coral Coaster Tour (one way, 6 days)

Perth to Broome Overland Adventure (Perth, one way, 10 days)

Monkey Mia on the central coast of WA, is a part of the World Heritage-listed Shark Bay. It’s famous for its unique encounters with wild dolphins. A natural attraction is the Francois Peron NP, the marine safaris, Dirk Hartog Island, where the Europeans first set foot on Australia in 1616 and the stromatolites, one of the world’s oldest living lifeforms.

Perth to Monkey Mia Coastal Loop (4 days)

South Australia Outback Tours

(this is the heading H3 plus the text below, it goes into a side-wide block).

South Australia is home to some of the best outback tours in Australia. From 4WD safaris through desert terrain to hiking and camping in national parks, Adelaide offers a good base for all kinds of adventures.

Flinders Ranges Outback Tour

Flinders Ranges is one of the most ancient Outback areas in Australia. With breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife, it is the perfect destination for an Outback adventure in Australia. There’s so much to do here that I recommend booking a multi-day tour that welcomes 50+ seniors. I went on a 3-day Flinders Ranges adventure for a journey through some of the most spectacular landscapes of Australia, including the iconic Wilpena Pound and some interesting rock art sites.

Flinders Ranges Eco Safari Adventure (Adelaide/Adelaide; 8 days)

Eyre Peninsula & Flinders Ranges adventure (Adelaide/Adelaide; 6 days)

The Eyre Peninsula, located on the southern coast of Australia, is a must-see for solo travellers over 50 looking for an adventure. The peninsula’s rugged coastline and pristine beaches offer plenty of exploration opportunities. Whale watching, playing with sea lions or cage diving with sharks, it’s all about the ocean wildlife in this region. You can self-drive the legendary Eyre Highway from Adelaide to Perth (crossing Nullarbour on the way) or join a small group tour to combine the Peninsula with the Flinders Ranges.

Eyre Peninsula adventure (Adelaide/Adelaide; 9 days)

Northern Australia Tours (Darwin area)

In the far north of Australia, where the Outback meets the ocean and the rainforest, you have spectacular waterfalls, rugged mountain ranges and deep gorges. Darwin is the capital city of Northern Australia and the perfect base to explore this part of the country called the Top End.

Although you can explore this remote region independently, you won’t be able to access many sights without a 4WD. If you’re uncomfortable driving one, here are the best trips to join as a group tour: Then 3 columns: 1. Kakaud N.P + Arhnem, 2. Litchfield. 3. Nitmiluk.

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu is the most well-known National Park in the Top End of the Northern Territory and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s one of the most spectacular places in the country and offers a combination of extraordinary nature and rich Aboriginal culture. Although day tours are available, I recommend spending at least a couple of nights because of the larger size of the park and the many sights.

Remember that many places in Kakadu aren’t accessible during the wet season. Read more from my 3-day Kakadu Camping Tour . A trip to Kakadu National Park is often combined with a visit to Litchfield NP or Nitmiluk NP. Here are tours that I recommend taking if you plan to visit these places.

Kakadu, Katherine Gorge and Tiwi Island (Darwin/Darwin; 3 days)

4-day Kakadu Outback trip (Darwin/Darwin; 4 days)

Kakadu, Litchfield & Billabong Cruise (Darwin/Darwin; 5 days)

Litchfield National Park Tours

Litchfield is a National Park in Australia’s Top End located about 1,5 hours from Darwin. Its compact size makes it perfect for day trips to waterfalls, rockpools, and impressive giant termite mounds.

Litchfield & Jumping Crocodile Cruise (Darwin/Darwin; day trip)

Kakadu & Litchfield 4WD Camping Tour (Darwin/Darwin; 3 days)

Arnhem Land Tours

Arnhem Land is a bit of a hidden gem in Australia’s Top End region. Not many tourists make it here, but that doesn’t mean Arnhem Land isn’t worth a visit. Arnhem Land can be visited from Jabiru and is home to the Yolngu people. You need a permit to visit this vast wilderness area, so I recommend booking a tour to explore the rock art of Injalak Hill with an Aboriginal guide.

Arnhem Land from Jabiru (Jabiru/Jabiru; day trip)

Top End and Arnhem Land adventure (Darwin/Darwin; 5 days)

Nitmiluk National Park Tours

The Nitmiluk National Park was formerly known as the Katherine Gorge National Park because the gorge is its most famous sight. You can discover the region through bushwalks, boat tours and scenic flights. The park is often combined with the other highlights of the Top End region.

Jatbula Trail (Darwin/Darwin; 6 days)

Non-Outback Australian Tours For Seniors And Over 50s

Tours in South Eastern Australia are the perfect way to explore this vast and rugged region. Many Australia Tours can be done as escapes from Melbourne .

Great Ocean Road Tours

The Great Ocean Road is an iconic Australian road trip that takes visitors along the breathtaking southeastern coast from the surf capital Torquay to Warrnambool. You’ll stop at the famous Twelve Apostles viewpoint and the Loch Ard Gorge, but there are many more sights along the way.

If a  Great Ocean Road as a self-drive is not your thing, a small group tour allows you to discover the region with an experienced guide who can provide interesting stories and insights about the area. I also recommend it if you’re uncomfortable driving or looking to go on a day trip from Melbourne.

Great Ocean Road & Wildlife tour (Melbourne/Melbourne; day trip)

2-day Great Ocean Road Tour (Melbourne/Melbourne; 2 days)

Ultimate Great Ocean Road tour (Melbourne/Melbourne; 4 days)

The Grampians National Park

The Grampians National Park is one of South Eastern Australia’s most spectacular natural environments. Located in the western part of Victoria, the park is known for its majestic sandstone mountains, rugged landscapes and diverse wildlife.

There are many walking trails, including the Grampian Peaks Trail, a challenging 160-kilometre track that traverses some of the most spectacular scenery in the park. Going with a guide will allow you to spot the local wildlife more easily, and you’ll be able to visit the best spots all in one go.

Grampians great wilderness escape (Melbourne/Melbourne; day trip)

Overland Melbourne to Adelaide with Grampians & Great Ocean Road (Melbourne/Adelaide; 2 days)

Grampian Peaks Trail (Grampians/Grampians; 4 days).

Tasmania Tours

Tasmania is an island off the southeastern coast of Australia with natural beauty like no other. I recommend visiting Tasmania on a 10-day self-drive , but booking a guided tour to the island is an excellent alternative if you’re uncomfortable driving around or short on time. The main sights include Franklin River, Wineglass Bay, Russell Falls and encountering the iconic Tasmanian Devil.

Highlights of Tasmania (Hobart/Hobart; 6 days)

Cradle Mountain Overland Track (Launceston/Launceston; 6 days)

Tasmania Complete (Hobart/Hobart; 12 days)

Queensland Tours

Queensland has so many places to discover that I recommend going on a guided tour to make the most of your time. It’s a versatile destination with red-hued deserts, tropical rainforest and dramatic mountain ranges. Both Cairns and Brisbane serve as hubs for the region.

Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree rainforest is part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Area. It’s the largest continuous tropical rainforest in Australia, covering an area of approximately 1200 square kilometres, and it’s also one of the world’s oldest continuously surviving rainforests, with parts of it estimated to be over 180 million years old. Although driving alone in some parts of the national park is possible, you’ll need a lot of driving experience. Not to mention that only a small part is accessible with a regular car. I don’t recommend visiting the Daintree Rainforest by yourself. You can visit Daintree on a day trip from Cairns or Port Douglas, and most tours will also include a visit to Cape Tribulation and the Mossman Gorge.

However, I visited the area during a 2-day four-wheel adventure from Cairns to Cooktown , which I can recommend if you’re not up to driving a four-wheel van.

Daintree Rainforest Tours

Daintree & Cape Tribulation adventure (Cairns/Cairns; 8 days)

Brisbane to the Daintree discovery with Atherton Tablelands (Brisbane/Cairns; 12 days)

East Coast Tours

Australia’s East Coast spans almost 3000 km from Sydney to Cairns . Imagine tropical beaches, rainforests, the Great Barrier Reef and spectacular islands such as Fraser Island and the Whitsundays. While I love self-driving this route because of the sheer amount of things to do, I recommend a guided tour if you want to pack as many sights into your itinerary as possible.

Here are some of the best Australian East Coast Tours

Tropical islands and rainforest (Gold Coast/Cairns; 9 days)

East Coast islands and rainforest (Sydney/Cairns; 12 days)

OZ East Coast Adventure (Brisbane/Cairns, 20 days)

Fraser Island Rainforest Eco-Hike (Fraser Island/Fraser Island, 3 days)

Remote Fraser Island Tour with kayaking (Hervey Bay/Hervey Bay; day trip)

Blue Mountains Tours from Sydney

If you’re visiting Sydney , you should not miss the chance to tour the Blue Mountains. This UNESCO heritage site is home to the stunning Three Sisters rock formation, and the view of Wentworth Falls is worth the mildly challenging walk beforehand. If you’re short on time, Scenic World offers an excellent introduction to the stunning scenery in the Blue Mountains.

Walk the Blue Mountains (Sydney/Sydney; 4 days)

New South Wales Wineries & Countryside (Sydney/Sydney; 8 days)

Australia Day Tours for single travellers over 50

Most cities and regions that can be visited on a day trip are easy to do independently. But organised day trips in Australia for those over 50 are fun and convenient. There are so many activities in Australia that I cannot mention them all. That’s why I have created this list of the day tours I have experienced during my travels in Australia (which I think are worth the recommendation).

Wine Tours of Australia

Wine lovers won’t be disappointed when visiting Australia. With over 60 wine regions across the country, you can sample some of the best wines in the world, no matter your destination. With the help of a guide, you can learn about Australia’s winemaking history while you visit boutique cellars, sample the finest wines, and enjoy the often stunning views. Combine with a food tour to try local produce or a bike tour to add an active touch.

Margaret River Wine Tour

One of the best wine & food tours I had while exploring solo South Western Australia . This is the tour if you want a passionate, knowledgeable local to show you the Margaret River Wine Region and the best local produce.

Barossa Valley Food Experience

I went on this day trip from Adelaide. I enjoyed my time, visited five wineries and learned much about the Barossa region from the tour guide.

Swan Valley Wine & Food Tour

The Swan Valley is one of Western Australia’s oldest and most beautiful wine regions. It’s the perfect destination for a day trip from Perth, only 25 minutes away. I took the half-day food & wine tour, but for the complete experience, go for the full-day tour and visit some of the best wineries in the region, such as Sandlefords and Mandoon Estate.

Cruising day tours

If you like being out on the water, a cruise or boat tour is a beautiful way to spend the day.

Lake Argyle River Cruise

This is another great day tour in the Australian Outback. Excellent if you love sunsets and want to explore the Eastern Kimberley.

An Eco-Snorkeling Tour on the Great Barrier Reef

I enjoyed this kids-free snorkelling tour in a small group of 12. Starting from Port Douglas, we headed out on a beautiful eco-catamaran to Low Isle, where we formed two guided groups of people and snorkelled close to the shore. The sailing trip included sunset and champagne.

Adventure day tours

I’m a big fan of adventurous activities, and Australia is the right place to indulge in them. There are just so many fun things to do! Here are my favourite experiences.

A scenic flight over the Bungle Bungles

This is not a cheap day tour, but if you are on a tight schedule from Kununurra, you can visit the Bungle Bungles on a day with a flight + walking tour of Purnunulu National Park.

Ballooning on the Gold Coast .

This was my second hot-air balloon, and I loved to soar over the Gold Coast.

Sydney Helicopter Scenic Flight

This is a must-have experience. However, it’s not ideal for solo travellers to Australia since these flights start from 2-3 people. So, if you are lucky to get paired with someone else, you can fly.

Melbourne Hot-Air Balloon Ride

This was my first experience with a hot-air balloon. Waking up at 3.30 am is not fun, but it’s worth the breathtaking views you get at sunrise over Melbourne and the bay.

4WD Road Trip from Cairns to Cooktown

One of the highlights of my trip to North Tropical Queensland was this 4 4-wheel drive to Cooktown. It’s one of the most challenging 4WD drives in the world, so definitely book a tour for this!

Frequently Asked Questions about Australian Tours for Seniors 50+

How do I travel to Australia for the first time?

If you’re visiting Australia long term and for the first time, I highly recommend booking guided tours to get a good overview of the area you’ll be exploring. This way, you’ll save time and hassle by having all the information and details taken care of. If you’re comfortable renting a car and driving, that’s another great way to solo travel Australia for over 50s.

Is it cheaper to travel on a tour or alone?

Australia is known to be expensive regardless of whether you travel on a tour or alone. Still, depending on the destination and the accommodation type, a guided group tour may be cheaper than travelling solo. However, I don’t recommend investing more than 20 to 30% of your time in guided tours to leave some room for exploration on your own.

Is Australia solo travel friendly?

Australia is a solo travel-friendly destination for female travellers , regardless of age. It’s a safe country and easy to travel around in. Remember that it won’t be cheap as you’ll often have to pay a single surcharge for accommodation and the price of your rental car on your own.

What is the best city in Australia to travel solo to?

There are many places in Australia for solo travellers especially after retirement . The primary destinations are Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Hobart, Perth, and Adelaide are great hubs for exploring their respective regions. My favourite is Melbourne because there’s so much to do in and around the city for solo female travellers.

What is the best travel company for over 50+?

The best travel companies for over 50+ in Australia are G Adventures, AAT Kings and Wild Women Journeys for gender-specific Australian tours for seniors travelling alone. What is the best season to tour Australia?

What the best season is to tour Australia depends on your destination. Summer (Dec-Feb) is the busiest travel season, but visiting Tasmania and the East Coast is great. Winter (Jun-Sep) is the perfect time to visit Darwin and the surrounding outback, North Tropical Queensland, Central Australia and Western Australia. I recommend visiting during the shoulder season (spring or autumn) to avoid crowds.

Final thoughts: Solo travel tours over 50 Australia

Australia is a top place for solo travellers over 50 . Whether you explore the country independently or join guided tours, there are plenty of opportunities to discover unique experiences in and around the cities. You have unlimited adventures, from eco-snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef to exploring the Kimberley and a hot air balloon ride over Melbourne.  With my tips and resources above, I hope you can find a fantastic tour experience that fits your needs perfectly.

Related Articles and Small Group Tours

Go to All Australian Places To Visit

Go to Plan Your Australia Trip

Go to Italy Small Group Tours for Over 50

Go Back to Rocky Travel – Solo Travel & Tours For Over 50

First published in 2013, last updated in Dec 2023

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Travelling solo? Three Australian women share their experiences and tips for going it alone

There can be many barriers getting in the way of travelling — the cost, getting time off and rearranging care commitments.

But for many women there can be an added barrier — having no one to go with.

There seems to be more of a stigma about women travelling alone than men. 

Because it's not just loneliness or the potential awkwardness of being alone that can put some women off travelling solo — it's also about safety.

'Geography of fear' creates a barrier for women

Catheryn Khoo, professor and researcher of hospitality and tourism at Torrens University, says safety is an issue for everyone, not just women.

"It is more the social discourse around safety that is a huge barrier for women wanting to travel solo," Dr Khoo told the ABC.

"The media perpetuates danger by reinforcing.

"It creates the geography of fear for women and incites self-doubt."

But Dr Khoo says there are many good reasons for women to travel on their own .

"Women find themselves tied to the responsibilities attached to their roles as women, mothers, daughters, wives, and partners.

"But when they go on a solo journey, they no longer have to fulfil these roles.

"They live only for themselves and only have themselves to take care of."

And when they share these experiences, it can also empower other women to break the stigma. 

"Women who have actually travelled solo are creating a social acceptance of doing so, which gives others courage to do the same," Dr Khoo says.

"For these women, the motivations are personal growth, self-discovery, empowerment, and independence."

We spoke to three women about their experiences travelling alone. 

'Yearning for adventure'

Eleea Navarro has climbed Mount Fuji, ridden bareback with Andalusian horses in Spain and braved the heat of the Sahara Desert. 

And she did it all on her own.

"I feel confident travelling by myself," Eleea tells the ABC.

"And the thing that still pushes me to travel is the thrill of the unknown, my yearning for adventure, wanting to connect with new people, and wanting to get to know myself better.

"The beauty of going solo is that the only person you have to convince is yourself."

'Liberating' and 'overwhelming'

Travelling abroad was never a possibility for Chelsea Golding's family when she was growing up.

But now she's in her 20s, things are different. 

So when the timing felt right in 2023 she decided it was "now or never" and went on a solo trip through South-East Asia for three months.

"Going off on my own for the first time was definitely a shock to the system," Chelsea tells the ABC.

"It went in waves where it was the most liberating feeling, to something that felt quite overwhelming.

"But I would absolutely do it again, it was an amazing experience."

Writing the next chapter

For Donna Manders, the catalyst for her solo adventure was a little different.

After her divorce a few years ago, she found herself experiencing a lack of identity, not knowing who she was or where she fitted in. Even though she had love and support from her children, family, friends and work colleagues.

"I felt like I still had so much to offer and that I was only halfway through my life story," Donna tells the ABC.

"The usual commentary around situations like this, a middle-aged, divorced woman with grown children, is 'just keep going as the best is behind you now'.

"But that didn't feel right to me."

So, with an unexplainable desire to push herself, Donna decided to take a leap of faith and write the next chapter of her life story.

She travelled for two and a half months through Italy, England, and Scotland solo.

"Although it was a journey of emotions along the way, I learnt how capable and resilient I actually am," she says.

"I learnt to trust my intuition, lean into the solitude and silence, so I could finally hear myself."

But it wasn't all sunshine

Eleea says being able to travel is an incredible privilege, but warns that it is romanticised online.

"Just like in real life, you're likely to get exhausted, ripped off, sick, injured, financially stressed, overwhelmed, lost, confused, or lonely.

"I've experienced everything from intense food poisoning while on a 10-hour bus commute, being scammed by a dilapidated half-built resort in Hoi An, and getting bitten by bed bugs from a cheap hostel in Budapest.

"I was also depressingly lonely for days on end on one of my first solo trips to Vietnam.

"I resorted to crossing my fingers as people walked past, hoping they'd talk to me."

Donna says that although she felt excitement and joy, there were times where she felt isolated, lonely and sad, but was able to navigate her way out of those feelings with a few tools.

"I repeated my favourite affirmations, listened to music — this is where your favourite playlist comes into the picture — wrote in a journal, and just learnt to trust myself."

Chelsea recalls times where she was shouted at and experienced catcalling in Malaysia.

"There's probably nothing I could have done in that situation to make it less confronting, as I was already dressing modestly to respect the customs."

What are their safety tips?

Eleea recommends walking with confidence and trying not to look like a tourist.

"If you're following directions on maps, try putting one headphone in your ear to listen to the audio cues, instead of constantly looking down at the map on your phone," she said.

"This helps you stay more aware of your surroundings and look more confident, like a local."

Eleea says she also wore a plain ring on her wedding finger as a deterrent from unwanted attention.

Here's some more tips from our three solo travellers:

• Learn the language and customs of your destination 
• Give friends and family members your full itinerary
• Never go overseas without travel insurance
• Dress simply and don't wear expensive jewellery to avoid unwanted attention
• Keep in touch with a good support network, even if they're back home
• Switch on a 'find my phone' setting on your smartphone
• Travel light with your luggage so you confidently carry everything without help
• Book accommodation near public transport
• Project a sense of being in control, especially in crowded places and public transport areas
• Be wary about giving out the address of your accommodation
• Get an e-SIM or local SIM card that allows you to make calls and access the internet
• Call family of friends while walking out at night on a quiet road
• Carry your valuables in bum bag strapped around your waist or a crossbody bag
• Wear a backpack on the front of your body when in crowded places or on public transport

How to overcome solo travel fears

Do your homework before you start booking.

" Join a supportive online community that supports women's travel," Dr Khoo says.

"This will mitigate perceived risks, and eliminate fear, doubt, and anxiety.

"You can also read the empowering literature on solo travel and be inspired by the stories."

This was something Donna couldn't recommend enough.

Chelsea and Eleea recommend staying in hostels as a way to meet fellow travellers and build a sense of community away from home.

"I would often meet friends in my hostel dorm or on free walking tours on my first day in a new destination," Eleea says.

"I usually opt for the largest mixed gender hostel dorm available, as it's typically the cheapest and the most likely place to meet new friends.

"And most importantly, don't be afraid to say hello to somebody and start a conversation."

Prepare yourself for a certain level of discomfort, Chelsea says. 

"You can plan as much as possible but there will always be an element that you can't predict or feels out of your control.

"So being willing to be uncomfortable is necessary."

But Eleea believes overcoming these minor discomforts can make you more confident and resilient person.

"Plus if nothing goes wrong, then you have no funny stories to tell when you get home."

'Best thing I've ever done'

Donna says travelling on your own takes confidence and courage.

It helps you gain perspective and can reveal strengths you never knew you had. 

This is why Donna says it's the "best thing I've ever done". 

"I highly recommend it to anyone, especially middle aged women who may think their story is over.

"Don't be put off by your age.

"If you want to do it, give it a go."

For Eleea, solo travel has altered the course of her life in the most positive light.

"I have never regretted a trip, even if things weren't perfect.

"I feel so lucky to have the passport and freedom to see the world, and I try to appreciate and immerse myself in every moment."

• X (formerly Twitter)

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8 Tips When Traveling Around Australia On Your Own

• July 29, 2021

Traveling alone in Australia is an ambitious endeavor. For foreign students, it carries a daunting yet exciting premise. Regardless, it’s a fun quest you shouldn’t miss.

The absence of a company accounts for a more thrilling adventure. Moreover, it enables you to harness incredible independence in your journey.

Going solo guarantees a life-changing escapade filled with great memories. But traveling alone is more demanding than it seems. Being street-smart alone won’t cut it.

If you want to see iconic Australian destinations, a handful of tips will help you out. Start your solo trip with the tips below:

Make Advance Booking a Habit

Every destination spot in Australia is compelled to employ COVID-prevention practices. This means limited slots for guests who want to see the place.

With this in mind, make reservations as soon as you can. Slots tend to fill up quickly so it’s best to book months before your trip.

Be a Wise Spender

Local gift shops and souvenir stores are ubiquitous in top destinations. These places will tempt you to empty your pocket of glee. 

It’s okay to buy items as a remembrance of your stay. Just refrain from mindless spending.

Take the Mass Transit 

Mass transit is not only cheaper but it’s also an adventure on its own. Take it so you can be more familiar with travel routes and turns.

If you have to take domestic flights, book early. This gives you a better chance at cheaper ticket rates.

Feast on a Budget

Enjoying a full-course meal doesn’t have to be expensive! In fact, if you know where the good food is, you’ll save a lot on feasting. 

Many must-try foods in Australia won’t leave you broke. Be sure to try them out!

Keep a Bag of Electronic Essentials

Naturally, you’d want to pack your gadget chargers and extra power banks. But you can also bring some lights (preferably solar-powered), and an extra mobile phone.

You must also get a waterproof bag to store all your electronics. You wouldn’t want them to get damaged on your trips.

Buy a First-Aid Kit

Accidents are inevitable. It’s even worse when there’s no one to help you apply immediate care.

Don’t forget to get a first aid kit and fill it with essentials. Keep a couple of medicines, bandages, cotton balls, and swabs. Don’t forget a bottle of disinfectant alcohol too.

Read More Safe Travel Tips

Solo travelers can expect an exhilarating experience despite the lack of company. While it can be a fun journey, it carries its own set of dangers as well. That also means that you’re more vulnerable to peril, natural or man-inflicted.

Australia is a relatively safe country. But that does not mean it’s free of criminals. These people often cherry-pick tourists as targets. Without a travel group, your life can be at risk. Remember to read travel tips to make sure that you can deter harm out of the way.

Traveling alone brings its own set of thrills and fun. If you want to study in Australia to enjoy a solo trip, take a look at the top reasons why you must choose Australia as your study destination .

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Want to see the next total solar eclipse in 2026? An expert recommends booking travel now.

• 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years.
• Travelers worldwide will likely head to Spain, Iceland, and Greenland for the event.
• A hotel expert encouraged travelers to start planning and booking their trips now.

It'll be two decades before the next total solar eclipse hits the US .

Another option: hop on a plane to Europe and turn the 2026 total solar eclipse into a viewing vacation.

Eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told Space.com that up to 3.7 million people likely traveled for the solar eclipse on Monday.

HotelPlanner's chief communication officer, Philip Ballard, told Business Insider that the eclipse was a major revenue generator for many cities. For places like Austin, Texas, and Rochester, New York, it could have created $1 billion in revenue, Vox reported.

"I would say the total solar eclipse has become a global phenomenon," Ballard said.

Ballard added that the next solar eclipse , which will pass through Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on August 12, 2026, could result in similar tourism and revenue influxes.

And if travelers are considering a trip to Europe for the solar eclipse, Ballard recommends planning your trip now.

Determine your eclipse viewing destination

According to Space.com , 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years. Its path will go through Greenland, parts of western Iceland, and northern Spain.

Choosing where to watch the eclipse will be a tough and important decision for travelers.

Iceland and Greenland have some positives. These regions will experience longer totality times, so viewers can watch the eclipse longer. Plus, the sun will be higher in the sky, so finding a spot to watch the eclipse will be less challenging, Space.com reported.

The downside is that these regions are more likely to be cloudy, according to the outlet.

Related stories

While parts of Spain are likely to offer clearer skies, the eclipse's timing will be shorter and closer to the horizon, which means travelers will need to plan and track down a viewing location with unobstructed views of the western horizon, Space.com reported.

Regardless of the destination, according to the outlet, one bonus is that the strongest meteor shower in the Northern Hemisphere will happen the following night, so travelers can pack two events into one trip.

Book flights and hotels far in advance

Ballard encouraged people to book their hotels in their destination of choice as far in advance as possible.

"You should start looking now and booking hotels now because those cities in the path are already going to be at peak season," Ballard said.

Ballard said it's similar to when a Super Bowl city is determined or a Taylor Swift tour date is announced — you immediately see spikes in bookings. He predicts hotel occupancy rates will hit near-record highs, and room prices may double around the solar eclipse date.

Ballard's general rule of thumb is to book international travel at least three months in advance, but since this is such an anticipated event, booking earlier is smart. His advice is to start discussing plans with friends and family. If you decide on a destination, book a refundable room to keep your options open if plans change.

Regarding purchasing a plane ticket, a study from Expedia states that international travel's sweet spot is at least six months in advance.

According to Expedia, travelers who book six months in advance save an average of 10% more than travelers booking within two months or less.

Skip the hassle of planning altogether and book a solar eclipse tour

Another option is to let a tour operator do the work for you. A handful of tour companies have seen the increased interest in the solar eclipse and launched tours designed around the event.

These tours will have predetermined locations to view the eclipse, hotel blocks reserved, and itineraries highlighting both the region and the eclipse.

However, these can sell out quickly. For example, Space and Telescope created an 11-day tour of Spain around viewing the 2026 solar eclipse. The tour has already sold out as of Wednesday, and the waitlist is full.

Other operators, such as Wilderness Travel and Eclipse Traveler, have similar itineraries for the total eclipse in 2026.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

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How to make your own bespoke wine with the best vintners in the world.

With an initiation fee starting at $20k, private wine and travel club The Vines takes members around the globe to sip rare vintages, learn the art of blending and even create a personal barrel complete with 25 cases and bespoke labels.

By Elycia Rubin

Elycia Rubin

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Pulling a prized bottle of, say, a 2018 Dalla Valle Cabernet Sauvignon out of the cellar to relish with friends can be thrilling. But think about the bragging rights of pouring your own blend, which you personally crafted at a famed winery in the heart of Tuscany or in the hills of Argentina.

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Over three or four days you’ll stroll vineyards, gain inside knowledge about the craft, inhale the enchanting aromas inside renowned barrel rooms and sip treasured wines. Members also have the option of creating their own personal barrel (25 cases, priced from $6,000-$40,000), which will be bottled, adorned with a bespoke label and shipped to your home after maturation. Intimate and masterfully executed, these “Blending Escapes” are the pinnacle of wine-tasting bliss for any oenophile.

“Through The Vines, we share winemaking experiences with others who are passionate about wine and the cultural and travel experiences that accompany it,” founder and CEO Michael Evans tells THR . “Drinking wines from a region, with the people who make them, and enjoying the unique foods of each locale is an unparalleled experience.”

Studded with culturally rich activities designed to deeply connect members with each region thanks to the meaningful relationships Evans and his team have cultivated, excursions are carefully curated. In addition to the deep dive with winemakers, expect dinners at off-the-beaten path cafés and trattorias, bountiful lunches set on sprawling vineyards, cooking classes with revered chefs, and gatherings with resident authors and artists.

Current destinations where members can globetrot and vine hop include: Priorat, Spain; Mosel, Germany; the Champagne and Burgundy regions of France; Mendoza, Argentina; Oregon’s Willamette Valley; Duoro Valley, Portugal; Napa Valley; Sicily; and Piemonte, Italy.

South Africa, Bordeaux and Georgia in Eastern Europe are currently being plotted for 2025. Plenty of scintillating activities are forthcoming as well, to include truffle hunting in Tuscany, clamming on the Oregon coast, and making one’s own perfume in Spain.

Those who are yearning to delve further into the terroir and grow their own grapes, literally, have the option to purchase an acre of mature vineyards in Argentina at The Vines of Mendoza for $120,000, plus additional farming fees. “Winemaking is a la carte and starts at $4 per bottle,” says Evans, who also owns The Vines Resort & Spa , the private vineyard’s sleek retreat delivering majestic views of the Andes Mountains and surrounding vines.

A version of this story first appeared in the April 10 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. Click here to subscribe .

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