So, you’re planning your first trip to Australia? Congrats! You’re about to explore one of the most amazing countries on Earth. We’ve yet to meet anyone who didn’t love it!
Australia is huge—the 6th largest country in the world, almost the size of the US, and much bigger than the EU. Despite its size, it’s sparsely populated, and more than half of it is desert.
Another thing to know: Australia is highly developed, but also expensive. The longer your trip, the more you’ll spend. But don’t worry! With the right tips, you can make the most of your adventure without breaking the bank.
That’s why we put together 10 essential tips for first-time travelers to Australia—to help you avoid rookie mistakes and have an unforgettable trip!
Page Contents
10 tips for traveling to Australia for the first time
#1 A Road Trip is the Best Way to See Australia Truly
Want to truly see Australia? Hit the road—it’s the only way to experience its wild side! A road trip lets you explore incredible nature and off-the-beaten-track destinations.
Distances are huge, so plan accordingly, but the adventure is worth every kilometer. Even if you don’t have time for a full cross-country trip, focus on a few regions—you can still have an unforgettable experience.
Take advantage of free or budget-friendly campsites, stock your car with food, and chase Australia’s roads and beaches at your own pace. Just remember: fuel costs add up, and distances can be deceiving. For example, Byron Bay is over 150 km from Brisbane and more than 750 km from Sydney!
#2 Don’t Try to Do All of Australia in 2 Weeks
Trying to see all of Australia in just two weeks? Don’t even think about it—you’d have better luck touring the US or Europe in the same time!
If your trip is short, focus on one or two regions. You’ll enjoy a more relaxed experience, save time on transport, and avoid unnecessary stress.
If you have several months, you can cover more ground, but even then, planning is key to making the most of your adventure.
#3 Be Prepared to Go Offline
Australia is massive, and many regions are sparsely populated—mobile signals and internet can be spotty outside main areas.
Let people know you might be unreachable and write down essential information beforehand. GPS can fail, so bringing a printed map is a smart backup.
Being offline is part of the adventure—embrace it, but stay prepared.
#4 Consider Buying Your Car
This tip is mainly for travelers planning a slow, long-term trip in Australia. If you’re only here for a couple of weeks, buying a car doesn’t make sense—renting is better.
But if your plan is a longer adventure, say three months or more, consider buying a car or campervan and selling it at the end. Websites like Gumtree, Australia’s largest site for buying and selling used goods, have a wide selection of vehicles, from cars and vans to 4x4s.
Buying your own vehicle can save you money in the long run and give you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
#5 Try Camping
Camping is a key way to make an Australian road trip affordable. Whether in a tent or a campervan, it helps you save on accommodation and gives you the freedom to cook your own meals.
Sleeping in your car or camping in public spaces is illegal in most areas, and fines are heavy. Luckily, many apps can help you find free or budget-friendly campsites near some of Australia’s most stunning views.
Even paid campsites are usually cheaper than hotels or motels. With camping, you can fully enjoy the outdoors while keeping your trip budget-friendly.
#6 Cook Yourself
Australia has many great restaurants, but it’s not Southeast Asia or Mexico, where cheap and incredible local food is everywhere. Cooking your own meals can be a significant cost-saver, especially on a long trip.
Even without an RV, public BBQs are available in most parks across Australia—perfect for a local experience. Supermarket ingredients are generally not more expensive than in Europe or the US so that you can prepare fresh, budget-friendly meals.
Buying bread, cheese, and meat for a morning meal is an easy way to save on hotel or restaurant breakfast costs while enjoying quality food.
#7 Enjoy Australia’s Nature – It’s Free!
Some of Australia’s cities are amazing—Sydney, Melbourne, Perth—and you should spend at least a few days in each to explore them properly.
But what truly sets Australia apart is its unique natural environment. From lush rainforests and pristine beaches to dramatic cliffs and the outback, the outdoor experiences are endless—and mostly free.
Don’t miss Tasmania, though it’s a bit harder to reach; it’s gratifying. Hike, swim, explore, and enjoy some of the most untouched landscapes on the planet without spending a cent.
#8 Be Mindful of Wildlife
Australian wildlife is everywhere, especially at night. Animals are often drawn to lights and can jump onto roads unexpectedly, so driving after dark can be risky.
Start your evenings early, find a comfortable spot to stop before it gets dark, and enjoy the stars safely.
Be aware of potentially dangerous animals—from venomous snakes, spiders, and jellyfish to sharks, crocodiles, and even ants, centipedes, or octopuses. While following signs and advice greatly reduces risks, always check local conditions before swimming or exploring.
#9 Take Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
Australia’s sun is harsh, even when it doesn’t feel hot. The thinner ozone layer means you can burn quickly, so always wear 50+ SPF sunscreen—preferably water-resistant if you plan to swim.
Insect repellent is essential, too. It helps deter bites and protects you from insects that could carry diseases. You can also consider insect-repellent clothing for an extra layer of safety.
From house flies and bush flies to mozzies and other creepy critters, Australia has its fair share of small animals—being prepared keeps your adventure safe and enjoyable.
#10 Draft Your Journey and Keep a Good Attitude
A journey through Australia, especially a long one, is always an adventure. While freedom is part of the fun, planning is essential.
Draft your route and have a clear idea of distances, costs, and what you want to see. Constantly changing plans can waste time and money. Know your limits and stay flexible, but smart.
Setbacks happen—stay calm, think things through, and enjoy the journey. After all, half the fun of exploring Australia is embracing the adventure and making memories that will last a lifetime.
* Cover photo by cloudia via Depositphotos