Traveling Australia On A Budget

Wondering if you can afford to travel around Australia?

It is possible to travel to Australia on a budget. In fact, there are many ways to do so. In this guide, we’ll explore ways you can save money and travel around the country without breaking the bank.

I’ll also share some insights about my own experiences when I was traveling in Australia as a backpacker in 2014-2015.

Wondering how to move to Australia? Read our guide to living in Australia.

Best Ways To Save Money When Backpacking Australia

When traveling to Australia on a budget, it’s important to know how expensive the cost of living is there. Fortunately, there are ways to travel around Australia while respecting your travel budget.

Stay In Hostels

Hostels are a great way to save money when backpacking Australia. They are typically much cheaper than hotels, and you can often find deals that include free breakfast or other amenities.

Additionally, most hostels have kitchens where you can cook your own meals, which can save you a lot of money on food costs.

It’s still important to note that hostels in Australia are more expensive than in destinations like Europe. In fact, a hostel can easily cost a minimum of $25-30 per night for a large dorm. Alternatively, you could get a hostel job and stay there for free.

Another option would be to find a flat. It’s possible to share a room with flatmates to save money on rent.

Use Public Transportation

Australia has an extensive public transportation system that can help you save money on travel costs. trains and buses are typically cheaper than renting a car, and they can take you to all of the major cities and attractions in Australia.

That said, some backpackers love to buy a car, or a van so that they can camp around Australia instead of spending money on accommodation.

Of course, this option works if you love camping, and you don’t mind spending money on a car/fuel.

Get A Working Holiday Visa

If you are planning to backpack Australia for an extended period of time, you may want to consider getting a working holiday visa. This type of visa allows you to work in Australia for up to one year, which can help you offset the cost of your trip.

Usually, you can also apply for a second year if you wish to stay longer.

Eat Cheaply

Eating out can be one of the biggest expenses when traveling, but there are plenty of ways to save money on food costs. Eating at fast food restaurants or cooking your own meals can help you save a lot of money.

Additionally, many hostels offer kitchen facilities where you can prepare your own meals.

You can think of getting the basics, which are usually more affordable. Think of bread, oat, eggs, etc. 

Find Free Attractions

There are many free attractions in Australia that can help you save money on your trip. Many of the country’s national parks offer free admission, and there are often free events and activities taking place in major cities.

If you love the outdoors, you can hike, walk around, swim, or surf for free, or at a minimal cost. In my opinion, the best parts of Australia are nature-related. So you should be able to enjoy yourself without spending too much on tours.

Many museums also offer discounted or free admission for students and seniors.

Camp In Free Camping Spots

One of the best ways to save money when backpacking Australia is by camping in free camping spots. There are many areas around the country where you can camp for free, and this can help you save a lot of money on accommodation costs.

Additionally, camping is a great way to experience the unique Australian wilderness.

Find A Backpacker Job With Accommodation Included

Many jobs in the outback or in remote locations can provide free accommodation or rent at a low cost. You could also volunteer your time in exchange for accommodation.

You can usually find these opportunities on websites like Worldpackers.

Examples Of Cost Of Living In Australia

During my travels in Australia, I worked in different locations and the cost of living was changing from one spot to another. For example, if you stay in the countryside, you won’t be spending as much money as you would in a big city like Sydney.

Below, you’ll find examples of the cost of living in Australia, but note that these examples are from 2014-2015. The cost of living is probably higher now.

Working And Living In Bundaberg

• Occupation: worker in a tomato packing shed
• Accommodation: $125 / week, a shared room in a shared house

Working And Living In Sydney

• Occupation: Fundraiser
• Accommodation: $ 150 / week, a shared room in a shared apartment

Working And Living In Williams

• Occupation: Employee in a roadhouse
• Accommodation: $ 90 / week in a caravan, with kitchen and bathroom available in a shared house

Working And Living In Muckatah

• Occupation: Dairy farmer
• Accommodation: $100 / week, private room in a shared house

Working And Living In Millaa Millaa

• Occupation: Dairy farmer
• Accommodation: $250 / week (divided by 2), renting a nice little house

Now, these examples are just from my personal experience. The cost of living in Australia obviously depends on the lifestyle you want to lead and where you want to live.

If you’re looking for more affordable accommodation, you might want to try looking in smaller towns or the countryside. And if you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, then the big cities will be your best bet.

Obviously, the longer you stay in Australia, the cheaper it will be if you get long-term accommodation.

Final Thoughts On Traveling Australia On A Budget

Australia is a vast and beautiful country with so much to offer travelers on a tight budget. Following our tips, you can travel Australia on a shoestring and still have an adventure of a lifetime.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip down under today!

Heading to Australia soon? Read the following guides:

• How to get a backpacker job in Australia
• Living on a farm in Australia
• Cheap things to do in Sydney