Out of all the countries I’ve backpacked in, Australia was my absolute favourite. Being a very large country, it is ideal for backpacking but it can also be a little challenging due to the size, along with the often hot temperatures and a number of challenging, dangerous animals to contend with. But if you know the right way to backpack in Australia, then you will be safe and you will enjoy your adventure. Here are a few things you need to know when backpacking in Australia:
- Budgeting – Australia is a reasonably affordable country and offers good budget options for backpackers. But it can be expensive. Ensure that you have enough money to cover you during your stay. There is nothing worse than being alone in a foreign country with no money, so don’t forget an emergency slush fund. Have a credit card as well, because most backpacker hostels and tours require a credit card number to secure a booking. Also, remember to inform your credit card company and bank that you will be going to Australia.
- Packing – What you bring with you can make or break your trip. The trick here is to know how to balance how much to bring with you. The sun is fierce over Australia. So always wear a hat, prefer long sleeved and long legged clothing if you are walking or travelling in the sun for any length of time and wear sunscreen. Remember to have a first aid kit very close to you. It is needed in any backpacking adventure.
- Eating – Food is a huge part of Australian culture, but eating at a pricey restaurant is by no means the only way to taste the unique cuisine of a certain country. Getting meal ideas in a grocery store can give you a cheaper means than an establishment offering pre-cooked meals. Cooking your own food is also a great way to save cash. Most hostels have a kitchen with all the essentials to make a good meal. You can cook a little extra and save it in the fridge overnight, and take the leftovers for lunch before heading out in the morning.
- Seeing the Sights – Australia is a land of great and astounding beauty. You won’t see landscape, vegetation or fauna like it anywhere else in the world. It is unique and that is what makes it precious. Respect it by sticking to trails and paths that have been made for human access and do not pick wildflowers or remove animals from their locations. Getting tour guides are an excellent way to get orientated in Australia, too. The guide should be able to direct you to nearly anything that you want to find, see, or do. They can point you towards popular hole-in-the-walls that tourists don’t know about.
- Get travel insurance – It is important to have travel insurance organised for your trip before you leave to go travelling – no matter where. Travellers from some countries on certain visas may be entitled to some medical care benefits through the Australian public healthcare system. To learn more about travel insurances, check out Expedia before you start backpacking.
Australia’s beautiful scenery and distinctive culture are the reasons why thousands of backpackers flock to Australia every year. No matter how busy my schedule is, if I ever get the chance to backpack in Australia again, I would not hesitate. So for all you backpackers around the world, do not miss the chance to trail Australia and bask in all its glory.
Author Bio:
A serial traveler and writer, Gemma has had more than her fair share of trips all over the world with her travel buddies and families, and is always looking to share her experience through writing.
Image credit: Kathryn Sprigg
