travel book australia

The Rough Guide to Australia

This practical travel guide to Australia features detailed factual travel tips and points-of-interest structured lists of all iconic must-see sights as well as some off-the-beaten-track treasures. Our itinerary suggestions and expert author picks of things to see and do will make it a perfect companion both, ahead of your trip and on the ground. This Australia guide book is packed full of details on how to get there and around, pre-departure information and top time-saving tips, including a visual list of things not to miss. Our colour-coded maps make Australia easier to navigate while you're there. This guide book to Australia has been fully updated post-COVID-19. The Rough Guide to AUSTRALIA covers: Sydney and around; New South Wales and the ACT; Coastal Queensland; Outback Queensland; Northern Territory; Western Australia; South Australia; Melbourne and around; Victoria; Tasmania Inside this Australia travel guide you'll find: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EVERY TYPE OF TRAVELLER

Experiences for every kind of trip to Australia, from off-the-beaten-track adventures in Uluru to family activities in child-friendly places, like Atherton Tablelands or chilled-out breaks in popular tourist areas, like Sydney Harbour. PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS

Essential pre-departure information including Australia entry requirements, getting around, health information, travelling with children, sports and outdoor activities, food and drink, festivals, culture and etiquette, shopping, tips for travellers with disabilities and more. TIME-SAVING ITINERARIES

Carefully planned routes covering the best of Australia give a taste of the richness and diversity of the destination, and have been created for different time frames or types of trip. DETAILED REGIONAL COVERAGE

Clear structure within each sightseeing chapter of this Australia travel guide includes regional highlights, brief history, detailed sights and places ordered geographically, recommended restaurants, hotels, bars, clubs and major shops or entertainment options. INSIGHTS INTO GETTING AROUND LIKE A LOCAL

Tips on how to beat the crowds, save time and money and find the best local spots for exploring the giant dunes and freshwater lakes or surfing. HIGHLIGHTS OF THINGS NOT TO MISS

Rough Guides' rundown of Melbourne, Bondi Beach, Victoria and Tasmania's best sights and top experiences helps to make the most of each trip to Australia, even in a short time. HONEST AND INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Written by Rough Guides' expert authors with a trademark blend of humour, honesty and expertise, this Australia guide book will help you find the best places, matching different needs. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Comprehensive 'Contexts' chapter features fascinating insights into Australia, with coverage of history, religion, ethnic groups, environment, wildlife and books, plus a handy language section and glossary. FABULOUS FULL COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHY

Features inspirational colour photography, including the stunning Mitchell Falls and the spectacular Manly Beach. COLOUR-CODED MAPPING

Practical full-colour maps, with clearly numbered, colour-coded keys for quick orientation in Sydney, Queensland and many more locations in Australia, reduce the need to go online. USER-FRIENDLY LAYOUT

With helpful icons, and organised by neighbourhood to help you pick the best spots to spend your time.

Description

Book details.

This title is a part of Rough Guides Main Series

Practical travel guides series covering countries, cities and regions, with detailed factual travel tips, perfect for independent, long-stay, backpacking and budget-conscious travellers seeking comprehensive travel information and off-the-beaten track experiences

Extensive practical travel information including getting there, getting around, climate information, safety tips, accommodation explanations, food & drink advice and shopping essentials

Curated author picks with destination highlights at the beginning of each guide

Ready-made itineraries covering every corner of the destination

Colour-coded places chapters with detailed coverage of places and sights, presented in a points-of-interest structure

Extensive recommendations for accommodation, restaurants, shops and leisure activities for all budgets

Colour-coded detailed maps with marked-up key sights

Insights on history and nature highlights

Easy to use, newspaper-style layout

All guides published from January 2021 are printed on paper from responsible sources verified to meet FSC’s strict environmental and social standards

Free eBook with each printed guide published from May 2019

Format: 129 x 198mm

Price: £14.99-£26.99 | $13.99-$34.99

Extent: 616–1208 page

BOOK DETAILS

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Lonely Planet's local travel experts reveal all you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime to Australia.

Discover popular and off the beaten track experiences from surfing the waves on Byron Bay's iconic beaches to watching little penguins waddle ashore at the famous Penguin Parade, and touring the famous rock art sites of Kakadu National Park with an Aboriginal guide.

Build a trip to remember with Lonely Planet's Australia travel guide:

Our classic guidebook format provides you with the most comprehensive level of information for planning multi-week trips
Updated with an all new structure and design so you can navigate Australia and connect experiences together with ease
Create your perfect trip with exciting itineraries for extended journeys combined with suggested day trips, walking tours, and activities to match your passions
Get fresh takes on must-visit sights including Sydney Opera House and Whitsunday Islands
Special features on wine region guides, bush tucker explained, The Great Barrier Reef
Expert local recommendations on when to go, eating, drinking, nightlife, shopping, accommodation, adventure activities, festivals, and more
Essential information toolkit containing tips on arriving; transport; making the most of your time and money; LGBTIQ+ travel advice; accessibility; and responsible travel
Connect with Australian culture through stories that delve deep into local life, history, and traditions
Inspiring full-colour travel photography and maps including a pull out map of Australia

Sydney & Surrounds; North Coast New South Wales; South Coast New South Wales; Canberra & Country New South Wales; Southeast Queensland & the Fraser Coast; Central & Tropical North Queensland; Melbourne & Surrounds; Greater Victoria; Tasmania; Adelaide & South Australia; Darwin & the Northern Territory; Perth & Surrounds; Greater Western Australia

ISBN: 9781838693909

Edition: 22nd

Publication Date: August 2024

Writers: Reid, Sarah

Barber, Kat D'Arcy, Jayne Dragicevich, Peter Ham, Anthony Harding, Paul Holden, Trent Korteman, Jessica Lockhart, Jessica Maxwell, Virginia McLachlan, Craig Mutuli Musau, Mwende Rawlings-Way, Charles Waters, Steve West, Josh

928 pages, 157 maps | Dimensions: 128mm width × 197mm height

Next edition due: September 2026

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Non-Fiction

7 Best Travel Books About Australia

“Don’t worry about the world coming to an end today. It is already tomorrow in Australia.”

Australia is known as the land of chilled-out surfers, beers, barbecues, cricket , and a whole slew of freakish animals capable of killing us in a myriad of ways. And yet, there is so much more to the sixth-largest country in the world. From the Outback to the Opera House, Australia draws visitors with its incredible biodiversity, stunning vibrancy, and contemporary cityscapes, making it one of the world’s most-visited destinations. Join us at What We Reading as we present the best Australia books for your next trip! Whether you’re looking for inspiration or practical planners, these reads will entice you to the land Down Under!

Lonely Planet Best Of Australia – Lonely Planet

The best collection of travel tips from the number one travel publisher kicks off our list of Australia books from Lonely Planet.

From Sydney Harbour to the Great Barrier Reef, their Best of Australia edition is designed to be the ultimate travel companion for readers trekking Down Under. With high-colour imagery, itineraries, a pull-out map, essential information, honest reviews, and cultural pointers, everything is condensed in this one handy guide. Best of Australia covers Sydney, Blue Mountains, Canberra, Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest , Melbourne, Hobart, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Adelaide & South Australia, Perth & Margaret River, Kakadu National Park—covering all the most popular attractions and destinations for those looking to see everything the country has to offer.

Down Under – Bill Bryson

Bill Bryson has carved out a renowned career , offering readers travelogues on countries we all think we know, only to see them in entirely new lights, thanks to his sharp cynicism and infectious affection.

Trekking from state to state, Bryson brings to life the extremities of Australia’s flora, fauna, and sometimes otherworldly critters. From sociopathic jellyfish and toilet-dwelling death spiders to deadly shrubs, he juxtaposes these climate extremes with the ever-cool, laid-back locals. Down Under remains one of Bryson’s finest works and is sure to be an inspiring read for anyone looking to learn more about this paradoxical and strange land.

Australian Wanderlust: Discovering Authentic Australia – Emily L. Thorndike

Seeking an Australian travel book that ventures beyond the tried-and-tested attractions, promising an authentic experience? Emily L. Thorndike offers readers a user-friendly layout, up-to-date information, flexible itineraries, and stunning full-colour images that capture the extraordinary Australian continent, inspiring your next trip.

Australian Wanderlust provides up-to-date insights on popular destinations such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, Blue Mountains , Cairns, and Canberra. It goes further by offering a comprehensive guide to offbeat and hidden attractions. From delving into the history and stunning biodiversity to exploring Aboriginal culture and finding the best spots for a shopping spree, navigating the country is a breeze with this travel guide.

Travel: The Long Hitch Home – Maslin Jamie

Rogue wanderer Maslin Jamie delivers one of the most extraordinary travelogues in his 2015 book, The Long Hitch Home . Spanning 18 thousand miles, four seasons, three continents, and 19 countries, it follows him on his journey as he attempts to answer the question: ‘How many hitchhiking rides does it take to travel from Tasmania to London?’

Giving readers incredible insight into what it’s really like to live life on the road, Jamie maps the blistering deserts, freezing mountaintops, tropical jungles, and barren steppes as he picks up over 800 hitchhikes. ‘The Long Hitch Home’ takes readers into the off-beat destinations and backstreets of places most would never dream of visiting. It hilariously tells jam-packed, well-researched social, cultural, and historical commentaries from the countries he visited. Additionally, it includes heart-pumping accounts of the sometimes life-threatening threats he faced on his journey.It is travel writing that encapsulates the spirit of adventure.

Terra Nullius: A Journey Through No One’s Land – Sven Lindqvist

Sven Lindqvist provides an illuminating dive into the history of Aboriginal culture and the harrowing efforts made by colonisers to create a white Australia in Terra Nullius .

In a travelogue spanning over 7,000 miles, Lindqvist reflects on Australia’s violent past at the places where over nine-tenths of the original inhabitants of the continent were wiped out. It is an evocative and, at times, harrowing read, but undoubtedly one of the best Australia books for shedding light on how and where the stunning modern society it possesses now comes from. Simultaneously, Terra Nullius is also a wonderful book, celebrating a sacred and beautiful country home to incredible art and cultures. Powerful and inspiring, this historical excavation is undoubtedly an invaluable resource in unearthing the full scope of the continent’s history.

Australian Wildlife: A Visitor’s Guide – Stella Martin

Australia remains one of the most alluring destinations for wildlife-focused travellers, and writer Stella Martin condenses all the incredible vibrancy and diversity the ancient continent has to offer in her travel guide, Australian Wildlife: A Visitor’s Guide .

Eucalyptus-dotted woodlands and the vivid, awe-inspiring beauty of the coral reefs characterize Australian Wildlife, a detailed resource with essential on-the-ground information, making it an invaluable travel companion for all nature lovers. Taking readers through stretches of untouched deserts and into the heart of lush rainforests , Martin explores and marvels at how such incredible and bizarre creatures have evolved and flourished right across the country.

The Monocle Travel Guide to Sydney (The Monocle Travel Guide Series) – Tyler Brule

Tyler Brule takes readers beyond the Opera House and into a genuine experience of the largest city in Oceania with The Monocle Travel Guide to Sydney . From Bondi Beach to the Blue Mountains, Sydney is Australia’s most famous destination, boasting a mishmash of cool urban designs and classic refinement.

Brule’s book immerses readers in the sights and sounds of the waterfront and some of the best beaches in the world, the exquisite delicacies on offer at Darling Harbour, and the quirky hipness of Kings Cross. Offering the latest information and tips on the best excursions in the area, as well as a whole slew of hidden gems only the locals know about, there’s no other book a reader needs to sample all there is to see in Sydney.

Check Out The Best Travel Books On New Zealand

Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).

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16 Best Travel Books For Australia

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Australia is one of those bucket list destinations that many of us would love to travel to. It is definitely high on the list of places we would like to see and explore.

However, it is such a vast place, that it can often feel impossible to see everything in one trip. But, if you plan your trip well, you can explore different areas and make the most of your time in the country.

Whether it is just for a few short weeks or something a little longer, I have found some of the best travel guides for Australia that will help you make the most of your stay down under. Without further ado, here are 16 travel books for Australia.

Best Australia Guide Books For Travel Planning

Travel Australia by Van

Many people like the idea of traveling the country on the road, and using a camper van can often give you some of the best experiences in your life.

This book is two books in one. A planner for before you go where you can document the routes and places you want to stay, and then a diary for while you are there. It is a different sort of guide but a great investment for documenting your trip to Australia.

You can buy Travel Australia by Van here.

Lonely Planet Best of Australia

Lonely Planet is one of the best brands when it comes to travel books, and they have a fair few different ones that explore Australia. This one gives you the very best of Australia.

The authentic experiences, the places to go, and the things to embrace. It is a compact book filled with just the top experiences so perfect if you have some time to explore the country, but only want to enjoy the very best of it.

You can buy Lonely Planet Best of Australia here.

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Australia

This is another book that covers the whole of Australia and gives you a detailed overview of the places to go and the things you can enjoy seeing during your travels.

This book is full of insider information helping you to live like a local and experience some of the hidden gems that Australia has to offer.

You can buy DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Australia here.

Lonely Planet Australia

Another Lonely Planet book and one that covers the whole of Australia and gives you an excellent overview of the different cities and territories to explore.

It also covers some of the popular tourist attractions that you might want to skip so you don’t waste any of your valuable time here. A great overview of the country and an easy-to-follow guide.

You can buy Lonely Planet Australia here.

Ultimate Australia Travel List

This book is definitely a useful guide when it comes to looking at things to do in Australia. This is the ultimate list.

500 of the best experiences and things to do and see in Australia. They are also ranked so you know that you are guaranteed to get the very best out of your trip by using this guide. It is broad and covers the whole of Australia.

You can buy the Ultimate Australia Travel list here.

My Travel Planner Australia

This is the ideal book for any planner. It includes packing lists, areas to plan your trip to Australia, useful information on different destinations, and enough space to document a 27-day trip. A great companion for your trip to Australia.

You can buy My Travel Planner Australia here.

Australia Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide

You can’t beat a pocket guide and this one is packed full of relevant information to help you make the most of your trip to Australia. It also has a pull-out map that will help you ensure that you can truly make the most of your stay.

You can buy Australia Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide here.

Travel Books On Specific Areas Within Australia

Lonely Planet East Coast Australia

When traveling to Australia it might be that you could be looking at heading to a specific area of Australia. After all, it is such a huge country, and impossible to see everything all at once.

This guide is all about the east coast of Australia. Covering New South Wales, Victoria, the Whitsundays, and the Great Barrier Reef. Perfect if you are traveling to this area and want to explore.

You can buy the Lonely Planet East Coast Australia here.

Lonely Planet South Australia and Northern Territory

Another guide that is specific to different areas and is perfect if you are exploring different regions. This book focuses on Northern Territory and South Australia.

This book also boasts 30 different maps making it so much easier to get around. This is the ideal book to help you enjoy the southern wine regions and the northern mountains.

You can buy Lonely Planet South Australia and Northern Territory here.

Lonely Planet West Coast Australia

Another dedicated guide to a specific territory in Australia and this time it is Western Australia. This guide has information on the city of Perth as well as some of the more outback regions like Freemantle, Broome, and the Ningaloo coast.

There are plenty of experiences shared in this book to help you make the most of your visit to Western Australia.

You can buy Lonely Planet West Coast Australia here.

Lonely Planet Melbourne and Victoria

Melbourne and the region of Victoria are popular areas to visit when anyone thinks of Australia. The city itself is spectacular and Victoria has so much to offer.

The Coastal road has some of the most incredible destinations and this guide will help you make the most of all of the places to see and the experiences to enjoy during your trip.

You can buy Lonely Planet Melbourne and Victoria here.

DK Eyewitness Sydney

Sydney is another iconic destination in Australia and possibly has the most recognized landmark in Australia. This guide gives you everything you need to know about the city.

The places to go, the hidden gems, and the things you will want to experience. There is a lot to offer in Sydney, and this guide has you covered.

You can buy DK Eyewitness Sydney here.

Perth Travel Guide

In Western Australia, there is one city that you will definitely have on your list and that is Perth. This guide has quick tips and information covering the culture, the places to go, the things to enjoy, and even some recommendations of places to eat and drink. You can’t go wrong!

You can buy the Perth Travel Guide here.

Gold Coast Travel Guide

The Gold Coast is a popular destination in Australia and is famed for its beautiful beaches. But there is so much more to this place than meets the eye. This travel guide will help you understand where to go and what to do if you are visiting the Gold Coast.

You can buy the Gold Coast Travel Guide here.

Canberra Travel Guide

If you want to know about the sights, the food, the culture, and everything in between when it comes to Canberra then this is the guide for you. It is full of quick tips and information to help you make the most out of your trip to Canberra.

You can buy the Canberra Travel Guide here.

Brisbane and Cairns Travel Guide

Last on the list is a guide on Brisbane and Cairns. The ideal guide to help you make the most out of these two incredible destinations.

Filled with all the hidden gems and the things you must see and do, you really can’t go wrong!

You can buy the Brisbane and Cairns Travel Guide here.

Enjoying Exploring Australia?

I hope this list of travel books for Australia will help you if you are planning a trip to this incredible country. And if you are looking for more reading in and around the land down under, check out these next:

21 Best Books Set In Australia

More Literary Travel

Start with this list of the very best travel adventure books . It includes great reads that will fuel your wanderlust and have you staying up late to finish them. Or check out these books set in bookshops or aboard trains .

Share these travel and guide books on Australia with others:

17 Books about Australia to Read Before Visiting Down Under

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

This post may contain compensated links meaning if you buy through them we get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read our disclosure for additional information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Are you planning to visit Australia or possibly even move to Australia? I don’t know about you but I love finding out as much as possible about a place before I visit. As well as reading blogs and travel guides I also enjoy reading fictional works associated with the country.

If Australia is a destination on your bucket list these are some of the books I highly recommend adding to your reading list!

This is my list of books about Australia to read before you visit but if you know of anything I have missed do let me know in the comments below!

Books to read before you visit Australia

Non-fiction books to read about australia.

In a Sunburned Country

I love reading Bill Bryson's writing and this book is no exception. I read it before we moved over and laughed and laughed at his experiences. And also learnt quite a bit too. I am looking forward to visiting Canberra to see if it is exactly as he describes!

If there is one book to read before arriving in Australia this in the one!

The United States of Australia: An Aussie Bloke Explains Australia to Americans

A must read for any Americans out there planning to visit Australia! The United States of Australia is a fabulous (and funny) introduction to Australia and its quirky inhabitants. This book examines the relationship between Australia and the U.S., including how Australians view their American cousins.

Topics include Blokes and Sheilas, Bloody Foster’s, Dangerous Creatures, Talking to Dogs, The GAFA, Speaking Strail-yun and Working for the Queen. Confused? You won’t be after reading this book!

A Traveller's History of Australia

Find out about the history of this vast country from the arrival of the earliest Aborigines some fifty or sixty thousand years ago to the present.

Learn all about the ancient Aboriginal way of life, the arrival of European settlers and the emergence of a 21st century Australia.

Travelers' Tales Australia: True Stories

This volume of Travelers' Tales provides a vibrant introduction to the country of Australia and its people.

Visit well-known sites like Bondi Beach and Uluru , get lost in the outback, forage for platypuses , slog through billabongs, walk along ancient song lines, and land on a deserted island for a Robinson Crusoe adventure that will make you think twice about leaving home.

Australia's Most Unbelievable True Stories

I bet you didn't know that in 1932 the Australian army was called out to wage war on an invading army of 20,000… emus! Or that the first royal personage to arrive in Australia was the King of Iceland and he came as a convict?

From Jim Haynes, one of Australia's most successful and prolific tellers of yarns and bush tales, comes this ultimate collection of unbelievable true Australian stories : the unknown, the forgotten, the surprising, the truly weird and the completely inexplicable.

Australia - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

Good to learn about the customs and culture of Australia before you go! Australia is different—a vast island-continent with distances so great that the capital of Western Australia is actually closer to Singapore in Asia than it is to Sydney.

Australia with magnificent tropical rainforests and deserts the size of several European states has a lifestyle the envy of the world.

Find out everything you need to know about its culture and customs. Learn the difference between a quokka and a gallah and have a fabulous time!

Australia's Dangerous Animals: A Folding Pocket Guide to Potentially Harmful Species

And there are enough of them!!! Read up about all those crazy spiders, snakes, stingers and others that can kill you in the Land Down Under!!!

Fodor's Essential Australia

Written by local writers Fodors have been producing excellent travel guides for over 80 years.

National Geographic Australia

The National Geographic Traveler guidebooks are in tune with the growing trend toward experiential travel.

Each book provides inspiring photography, insider tips, and expert advice for a more authentic, enriching experience of the destination.

Fiction books to read before you visit Australia

The Shepherd's Hut: A Novel

Tim Winton is one of Australia’s most decorated and beloved novelists. In this novel the author tells the story of a young man on a journey of self-discovery in one of the harshest climates on Earth.

Picnic at Hanging Rock (Penguin Classics)

Picnic at Hanging Rock is an historical fiction novel written by Joan Lindsay. The novel is set in 1900 and revolves around the disappearance of a group of students from an Australian girls' boarding school when they are visiting Hanging Rock on Valentine's Day.

It is regarded by critics to be one of the best Australian novels.

The Spare Room

The Spare Room revolves around the friendship between two women - one dying and the other who cares for her. This book consistently receives excellent reviews and the author Helen Garner is a well respected Australian author.

Carpentaria: A Novel

Written by the indigenous Australian author Alexis Wright. It met with widespread critical acclaim when it was published in mid-2006, and went on to win Australia's premier literary prize, the Miles Franklin Award, in mid-2007.

Set in the sparsely populated town of Desperance in northern Queensland the story revolves around a powerful local family and Aboriginal families in dispute with the white officials of neighbouring towns.

The Kookaburra Creek Café

One small town. Three lost women. And a lifetime of secrets.

Daughter of Australia

An epic novel that follows the life of Leonora. Found abandoned as a small child in the desert of western Australia to a life in America before returning to her roots this love story will enthral you from beginning to end!

Set in an outback town gripped in a two year drought this murder mystery is a page-turner.

The Lost Man

Brothers Nathan and Bub Bright meet for the first time in months at the remote fence line separating their cattle ranches in the lonely outback.

Their third brother, Cameron, lies dead at their feet.

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Australia Travel Guide

With endless blue skies that unfold over miles of coastlines, vivacious cities, canopies of lush greenery, and terracotta deserts, Australia is an oasis for explorers of any calibre looking to embark upon a one-of-a-kind experience.

INTRODUCTION

Regularly crowned as an oasis of adventure, Australia is a land of perpetual sunshine, ancient cultures, and striking natural landscapes with a proud reputation for embracing the unexpected and excelling in the epic.

Home to an astonishing dichotomy of tradition and modernity, the country boasts a diverse charm that makes for a truly unparalleled experience that will shape your view of the world for years to come.

Travellers should prepare for endless beaches, glistening waters, ochre deserts, world-class food, endemic wildlife, a 110-million-year-old rainforest, the world’s oldest continuous living culture, and more. With so much to immerse yourself in, from the vibrant city life to the seemingly untouched countryside, there are countless reasons to visit Australia.

Catering to every type of explorer, the adventure options span every corner of the country and across each domain, allowing for the tone of your trip to be entirely dictated by you.

Head to Sydney for bolstering city life and innovative gastronomy, swim side-by-side with whales, turtles, and over 50 species of sharks at the Great Barrier Reef, and venture through the outback to meet the country’s largest bird – the emu – alongside kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, and countless more fascinating animals endemic to Australia.

Experience first-hand the mythology and spiritualism of Australia’s First Nations peoples, who have proudly called the land home for over 65,000 years. Learn more about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through guided tours of traditional rock art, historic landmarks, and Creation stories directly from Australia’s Traditional Owners.

Consistently ranked as one of the world’s best places to live, Australia offers more than just an average of 2,800 hours of sunshine per year and almost 12,000 beaches, but an island with unparalleled culture, otherworldly wildlife, unsullied natural environments, and endless wonders you can’t help but write home about.

Q&A WITH SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES OF AUSTRALIA

With an ever-growing hunger to explore and learn more about the plethora of opportunities that Australia offers, international travellers are flocking in droves to experience the country’s vibrant atmosphere, unparalleled natural scenery, and millennia-old culture.

Boasting over a decade of experience in the nation’s illustrious travel industry, Signature Experiences of Australia works diligently to assist the travel trade in negotiating the depth of premium products on offer, making it easy to entice adventures of every genre to explore Australia through unmissable, experiential travel opportunities.

Karen Fitzgerald , General Manager – Experiences at Tourism Australia, provides us with a deep dive into the company’s innovative origins, passion for representing the best of the country, and plans for promoting Australia as a first-class destination for those looking to embark upon the trip of a lifetime.

Can you tell us about the origins, vision, and goals of Signature Experiences of Australia?

Karen Fitzgerald, General Manager – Experiences at Tourism Australia (KF) : Signature Experiences of Australia launched in 2011 and was created as a distribution development initiative to entice smaller tourism businesses in Australia into international marketing programmes. We worked with industry to form marketing collectives based on the Luxury Lodges of Australia business model, now one of our partners. This collective launched in 2009 and saw the coming together of a small group of high-end experiential travel operators who wanted the world to know that Australia had a luxury travel offering through a collaborative approach which told their story in a cohesive way.

We then took that model and applied it to a variety of experience sectors that we identified through Tourism Australia’s Consumer Demand Project, which examines tourism experience drivers of demand – that is, why people are coming to Australia. Beyond beaches, nature, wildlife, food and drink, and welcoming locals, other sectors began to stand out.

It was becoming increasingly evident that premium travellers were seeking ways to integrate their personal passion points, such as hiking, playing golf, enjoying wine, and more, into their holiday experience.

All of these pillars have a competitive offering in Australia, so the programme has continued to grow over the years and now represents seven different travel sectors featuring 170 tourism businesses offering over 700 experiences.

What are the collectives within the Signature Experiences of Australia programme, and what makes each of them unique?

KF: Each collective is unique in its own way, yet united in an uncompromising commitment to excellence, the environment, people, and place. They showcase luxury experiences and they make the decision-making process so much easier, with partners selecting businesses that represent some of the best of the best across each sector.

Having these collectives provides a central resource for trade and media to guide their customers and readers.

The Signature Experiences of Australia collectives and what makes them unique include:

Cultural Attractions of Australia encompasses galleries, museums, performing arts, sporting attractions, and more, offering exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences that engage the experts, storytellers, and guides not usually so accessible to the visitor.
Luxury Lodges of Australia showcases the best of Australia’s luxury experiential travel and accommodation offerings, characterised by their diverse locations, privileged access, connection to place, expert guides, and personal intuitive service.
Discover Aboriginal Experiences highlights the oldest continuous living cultures on the planet and offers deeply impactful experiences delivered by Aboriginal guides who are Traditional Custodians and knowledge holders of the region they are in.
Australian Wildlife Journeys focuses on immersive experiences where guests can observe wildlife within their natural habitats and contribute to conservation actions designed to create a better future for them.
Great Walks of Australia leads small groups of travellers on well-known hiking trails so they can explore Australia’s vast and diverse landscapes in style and comfort.
Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia takes customers beyond the cellar door for unique vine-to-bottle experiences with the makers, creators, and first families of Australia’s world-famous wine.
Great Golf Courses of Australia provides avid golfers with access to some of the most prestigious, challenging, and spectacular courses across Australia – home to ten of the top 100 courses in the world.

In what ways do these collectives represent the very essence of Australia?

KF: Around 90 percent of the experiences offered within the Signature Experiences of Australia are in regional Australia which is the cornerstone of our offering when it comes to nature, landscape, wildlife, and people (both Traditional Custodians and Australians who live, work, and play there today).

These experiences represent the essence of Australia as they come with the standard of service expected from a luxury offering, with a taste of the relaxed Australian lifestyle. They are Australian experiences delivered by Australians at iconic landscapes and landmarks.

Whether it’s regional areas, the coast, the outback, or our capital cities, Signature Experiences of Australia partners and their collective members have a noticeable ‘halo’ effect on the destinations they visit and communities they work with.

Local makers, growers, hospitality providers, tradespeople, tour guides, farmers, and creatives are all supported by Signature Experiences of Australia operators. Boosting opportunities, preserving the culture, and protecting the environment are all key pillars of the seven partners and their collective offerings, while encouraging regional dispersal, length of stay, and expenditure.

Each collective offers a point of differentiation for visitors. Can you expand upon how this collaborative model provides a single point of contact for those seeking to experience Australia?

KF: There are over 700 experiences within the seven Signature Experiences of Australia collectives. Representing these within a marketing collective like this offers luxury travel advisors and media an excellent starting point to identify the most appropriate and relevant experiences for their clients and/or readers.

“Whether it’s regional areas, the coast, the outback, or our capital cities, Signature Experiences of Australia partners and their collective members have a noticeable ‘halo’ effect on the destinations they visit and communities they work with” Karen Fitzgerald , General Manager – Experiences, Tourism Australia

How do you promote Australia’s outstanding tourism experiences within a variety of niche areas and special interest categories?

KF: We maintain a close relationship with relevant high-end and experiential media and partners to tell our story. Our trade partners have told us that, to them, media has an increasingly large role to play when it comes to creating demand and inspiring consumers to travel. As a distribution development initiative, it’s important that we connect with our partners. We do so by attending luxury travel and tourism events, both Tourism Australia-owned and external. We continuously identify the most appropriate channels to meet luxury travel planners and advisors in order to get in front of their clients. Additionally, we explore specialist distributors unique to specific collectives – such as sport tourism providers for Great Golf Courses of Australia or hiking-focused specialists for Great Walks of Australia.

How do you market Australia as a unique and authentic travel destination that taps into the modern traveller’s passion points?

KF: For us, it’s about leaning into current trends and insights to find that competitive advantage, which our Consumer Demand Project research sheds light on, specifically regarding the motivators per market, which we then dissect to ensure we promote relevant experiences to the right consumers. We utilise this research to design how we market Australia and tell Australian stories to the world through a variety of business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B) channels.

Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Australia and discover your carefully curated selection of outstanding holiday experiences?

KF: When travelling, a lot of the time people want to discover a country, its people, and the lifestyle. A visit to Australia will give travellers all of this in spades, leaving them with not only unforgettable memories, but a connection to Australia, themselves, the people they have travelled with, and those they have met along the way.

From a Signature Experiences of Australia perspective, if a traveller has a particular passion, Australia should definitely be on their list! ‘Bucket list’ experiences like playing a round of golf at Royal Melbourne, performing in an opera at the Sydney Opera House, or swimming with whale sharks can easily transfer to a ‘shopping list’ when it comes to Australia, and if they aren’t sure what they want out of a holiday, these collectives are a great way to guide them.

What trends are transforming the tourism industry in Australia, and how are you utilising them in your portfolio of premium travel offerings?

KF: There are a number of trends we have seen in regard to the luxury traveller to Australia. Travelling with a sense of purpose is one – understanding what a destination is all about and going on journeys of discovery, revelation, and inspiration. People aren’t just looking for ‘fly-and-flop’ but meaningful experiences where they learn about the destination they’re visiting. Travellers used to come to Australia and pack in as much as possible into one highlight-reel trip.

Now we’re seeing people adopt a slower pace, taking more time to visit fewer destinations but visiting them properly. We’re also seeing a push for all-inclusive planned holidays, instead of planning as many individual, separate elements.

For accommodation, we’re seeing a strong demand for self-contained options. Our Luxury Lodges of Australia are increasingly seeing success with private villas and the like, where guests can have an entire home environment but still enjoy the facilities and offerings associated with a hyper-luxury accommodation.

Wellness travel continues to surge in Australia. For example, many of our Great Walks of Australia offer mental and physical wellness and/or well-being elements in their itineraries, like yoga, ice baths, and journaling. Multi-generational and celebratory travel is also growing, with families travelling for milestone moments.

Lastly, we’re still seeing a residual desire to reconnect following the years where we couldn’t travel as we would have liked. In recent years, a strong desire to learn more about our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples has become increasingly apparent.

“When travelling, a lot of the time, people want to discover a country, its people, and the lifestyle. A visit to Australia will give travellers all of this in spades, leaving them with not only unforgettable memories but a connection to Australia, themselves, the people they have travelled with, and those they have met along the way” Karen Fitzgerald , General Manager – Experiences, Tourism Australia

Finally, are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Australia?

KF: Absolutely! During the COVID-19 pandemic when everything moved online, a luxury travel buyer said to me that what the world was missing was Australians. The allure of the Australian people is huge. People want to travel somewhere where they get warm, friendly hospitality on arrival and throughout their stay. We also have an incredible pipeline of sporting events coming up, from the Lions Tour and Ashes next year all the way up to the Brisbane Olympics in 2032 – all offering great reasons to visit. Lastly, you have to travel to a destination to know why it’s important to protect.

We have so much diversity when it comes to our landscapes, nature, culture, and people – all waiting to warmly welcome visitors Down Under to see just what is so special about Australia.

Q&A WITH SAM BLUNSDON, HEAD OF COMMERCIAL AND TOURISM PRODUCTION, CONNECTIONS LUXURY

As a world-leading community for decision-makers in the travel industry, Connections Luxury is a data-driven luxury travel pocket toolkit. Sam Blunsdon , Head of Commercial and Tourism Promotion, provides us with a deep dive into the company’s success and partnership with Tourism Australia .

Firstly, can you talk us through the origins of Connections Luxury, your founding mission, and the Connections Way?

Sam Blunsdon, Head of Commercial and Tourism Promotion (SB): Connections Luxury was founded in 2014 with a belief in the power of human-to-human interaction, servicing the luxury travel industry.

In 2000, scientist Eric Kandel was awarded the Nobel Prize for discovering the role that memory plays in our brains, where nothing is remembered without emotions. We learned that creating a positive, shared emotion helps to fast-track meaningful, long-lasting business relationships and drive the success we all deserve. As a result, the pioneering Connections Way format was born.

10 years later, Connections Luxury is now a world-leading community for decision-makers in the travel industry, having run over 50 events globally across more than 30 destinations, connecting thousands of individuals.

Think of us as your data-driven luxury travel pocket toolkit. Our directory of over 3,000 luxury travel decision-makers – including vetted suppliers, buyers, media, charities, and destinations – unlocks countless opportunities for meaningful business to happen fast. Connections Luxury’s toolkit aims to achieve three core things: to connect, educate, and convert.

Our events are our most powerful tool for the industry and are unlike any other in the trade calendar built on the Connections Way; we combine one-to-one meetings with authentic, local experiences to create a positive, shared emotion that quickly builds the trust needed to do business in future.

Connections Luxury is a powerful and evolving year-round solution to communicate, educate, and inspire our industry.

How have you seen the luxury travel sector evolve since the company’s inception?

SB: This year marks our 10th anniversary, and we have seen the luxury travel landscape shift massively. Where luxury was once seen as materialistic with a focus on opulent accommodations and high-end amenities, over the years, there has been a shift towards experiential luxury.

Today’s discerning travellers seek unique and authentic experiences that allow them to immerse in the local culture and environment, focusing on personalisation, sustainability, and truly one-of-a-kind experiences. At Connections Luxury, our essence is about creating meaningful business relationships, so over the years, we have seen how the power of human-to-human connection has driven the success of luxury travel and our support for the industry.

Additionally, something that has changed in the last 10 years is the use of technology and social media within the luxury travel industry. Technology has significantly changed the way companies operate and engage with their clients.

In the case of social media, companies such as TikTok didn’t exist when we launched, but social media has allowed companies to elevate the story and meaning behind why we travel, adding to the need for more authentic and experience-based travel.

Similarly, artificial intelligence (AI) plays a vital role in how we conduct business. We are seeing new AI software in the market that can create bespoke itineraries or recommendations for places to visit and stay in a matter of seconds, meaning information is far more accessible, opening more destinations to explore.

As a key partner for many notable tourism boards across the world, how does Connections Luxury ensure success?

SB: It is important with any destination or partner to understand the client’s needs, strengths, and challenges, and how Connections Luxury can support them on their journey and share their story with our international community.

In essence, each tourist board wants to drive more luxury travellers into their destinations and showcase their unique products, services, and culture to the international market. Our success comes from gaining a deep understanding of this and their culture, understanding the minds of our community and luxury buyers, and bridging the gap so more effective business can be achieved. All our destinations have so many incredible products and services, and it’s really about working with them to unlock these secrets and what makes them unique, before promoting them to the world.

Could you also tell us how Connections Luxury incorporates the culture of each country when working with different tourism boards?

SB: At Connections Luxury, we believe the essence of luxury travel lies in authentic cultural immersion. To achieve this, we work with local companies and experts who advise us on what makes each destination unique.

A key component of our events is working with a local destination management company (DMC) partner. They have a breadth of knowledge about their destination and support us in finding those hidden gems we may not know about.

We also make sure to incorporate a mixture of unique venues as well as local and international luxury hotels as our event partners to spotlight the variety of products each destination enjoys. The final step is ensuring authentic, local experiences are injected into the event throughout one-to-one meetings, group activities, cultural performances, and event entertainment, working collaboratively with local artisans, chefs, experience providers, musicians, and cultural experts to create experiences that reflect the true spirit of the destination.

How has the community supported Tourism Australia, and how important is its presence in front of leading travel agencies?

SB: Tourism Australia has been a key partner of Connections Luxury for many years. Our partnership has been particularly crucial in strengthening their UK growth as a key market area for their development strategy. The main way our community supports Tourism Australia is through attending our Connections Luxury UK and Ireland flagship event, which welcomes over 100 luxury leisure travel buyers from the UK market, and being active in our annual community platform, home to over 3,000 global luxury travel buyers.

Our events connect Tourism Australia with leading luxury travel agencies to share valuable information and inspire our network as to why Australia is a special place to travel. It is an important tool for destinations to attend travel events as it connects them directly with key decision-makers in the market, expanding their portfolio of potential clients and driving business into the destination.

Additionally, attending overseas tradeshows also strengthens their destination’s presence in target market areas. Travel agencies are constantly developing and deepening their knowledge of destinations and product offerings to better service clients’ needs, so it’s imperative for destinations to attend these events. Hence, they stay front of mind and utilise the opportunities to educate the buyers and share what new and exciting products the destination has to offer.

Can you please expand upon your international community flagship events?

SB: Our events are unique as, unlike typical trade shows, we inject authentic experiences as part of delegates’ long, one-to-one business meetings to help forge meaningful business relationships around trust and emotion.

Whilst our events are smaller than others in the industry, this is deliberate as we aim to focus on quality. Bringing together quality, carefully selected delegates for productive meetings, elevated event production for a fun experience, and spending time on what matters, we are able to unite the industry in a way that creates a positive connection, accelerating business.

In the case of Tourism Australia, the event is powerful. Not only does the organisation spend quality time with relevant luxury buyers, but, like many of our destination partners, they have the opportunity to bring a unique experience relevant to their culture to the chosen venues and provide a taste of what the destination has to offer.

Additionally, we believe it’s essential to promote our clients and destinations to the wider community outside of trade events. Connections Luxury publishes its own luxury trade magazine showcasing our incredible community and destinations. This year’s edition will feature Tourism Australia, highlighting why Australia is a “bucket list” destination with so many places to explore and incredible experiences to take advantage of for the luxury traveller.

Looking ahead, how will the partnership between Connections Luxury and Tourism Australia evolve the country’s travel industry over the next five years?

SB: Currently, our primary work with Tourism Australia focuses on their UK strategy, whose market strengthened with the developments of direct flights from London to Perth in 2018, alongside further conversations of new direct flights from 2025. Naturally, with more accessible and shorter transport routes, we aim to see an increase in luxury travellers from this market, who bring higher spending into the destination, boosting their economy.

Over the next few years, we aim to expand our work with Tourism Australia, focusing on other key market areas such as the Americas and the Asia Pacific region to continue a positive trajectory of international luxury travellers visiting Australia, discovering its hidden gems and why it is a must-see destination.

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OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

FOR EXCEPTIONAL CULTURE…

As the oldest and most visited gallery in Australia, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) was founded in 1861 and currently holds the most significant collection of art in the region, boasting a treasure trove of over 76,000 works that surpasses thousands of years of ideas, disciplines, and styles.

Situated over the course of two stunning buildings – the NGV International and the Ian Potter Centre – the gallery hosts myriad local and international artists, exhibitions, programmes, and events that encompass contemporary art, historical exhibitions, and displays of fashion, architecture, sound, and dance.

Offering free entry to all, these cultural and historical riches cannot be surpassed.

FOR AN AFTERNOON OF IMMERSIVE LEARNING…

Bringing to life the diversely rich stories of the country, the National Museum of Australia presents an unforgettable experience through unique objects, exhibitions, and events for the public to explore.

Based in Canberra, the museum proudly showcases defining moments of Australian history and culture through its vast collection and engaging events.

FOR A RUGGED ADVENTURE…

With expansive ranges fringed by idyllic billabongs, flood plains, paperback swamps, and monsoonal rainforests, Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris at Mount Borradaile offers a variety of unforgettable experiences.

Having been in operation since 1986, the lodge has expanded to become the premium destination in Arnhem Land, offering tours, activities, accommodation, and facilities for a truly unparalleled wilderness adventure.

FOR A POCKET OF LUXURIOUS EXCLUSIVITY…

Located in the heart of Kimberley, El Questro Homestead (El Questro) is nestled in a vast and ancient landscape hidden amongst rugged cliffs and emerald green lawns, promising exclusive luxury you can’t find anywhere else.

Surrounded by acres of frangipani trees and the winding, tranquil current of the Chamberlain River, this 10-suite hideaway offers a chic yet cosy interior, with rooms balanced over the vast and striking scenery.

With nearly 700,000 acres of beautiful terrain to explore at your heart’s content, the homestead’s landscape is dramatic and expansive with something to offer every visitor, no matter their experience or background.

From jagged sandstone ranges and expansive tidal flats to rushing waterfalls and thermal springs, El Questro is an ideal oasis for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Kimberley, a region home to the world’s most precious wilderness landscapes.

Whilst at the homestead, guests are offered complementary excursions to allow for a fully immersive experience within its stunningly diverse terrain. Whether you traverse the surrounding acres via air, land, horse, or water, the abundance of ancient flora and fauna and eclectic creatures native to the country are never far away.

Expect to start each morning with the lulling call of birdsong and end the day relaxing under the stars with a locally sourced three-course dinner paired with complementary wine.

Staying at El Questro is an unforgettable experience, with luxurious comfort, fine dining, and the unique perspective of the Kimberley backdrop making this private and all-inclusive homestead the perfect place for visitors seeking an authentic Australian adventure.

CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS OF AUSTRALIA

Proudly showcasing some of the world’s most dynamic and creative organisations, Cultural Attractions of Australia brings together a collection of the country’s prominent cultural icons, which truly encapsulate the pulse of the nation’s best and brightest.

Home to a variety of notably distinct cultures and traditions that stem from its vibrant past, Australia’s cultural attractions tell the story of how its varied geographic, ethnic, and traditional origins have shaped the way people define the country. They also explore the national relationship and reaction to international art and culture – a unique way to see the world through Australian eyes.

As reflected in the country’s artistic, literary, performance, and sporting events, Australia’s culture respects the beauty of tradition while highlighting the excitement of the new and innovative. Its leading attractions curate the cultural narrative and offer visitors a window into the parallels of the country’s history and contemporary, creative present, allowing both international and local travellers to learn what it truly means to be Australian.

These unforgettable journeys range from Sydney and Perth to Queensland and Tasmania, with the cultural collective encompassing leading galleries, museums, performing arts, and sporting attractions. Through Cultural Attractions of Australia, visitors are able to embark upon exclusive experiences that offer special access, engaging talks with experts, storytellers and guides, and superb drinking and dining enhanced with art, music, and dance performances.

Providing a single repository of premium, behind-the-scenes experiences, these inspiring and authentic offerings are curated with a difference and include the Fremantle Prison Art Tour, the Wonders of Adelaide Roofclimb Experience, the Syndey Opera House Tour, the Ultimate Museum Experience, First Artists: Exceptional Indigenous Art and Dining, the Yiribana Experience, and so much more.

Experience the best of Australia’s cultural offerings and iconic institutions with VIP access through Cultural Attractions of Australia.

LUXURY LODGES OF AUSTRALIA

More than just a great place to stay, Luxury Lodges of Australia is a collection of the best high-end lodges and camps throughout the country’s many eclectic regions, all offering the unique opportunity to truly connect with the location and experience authentic Australia.

Formed in 2010 by a number of the country’s leading independent high-end tourism property owners, Luxury Lodges of Australia prides itself on being a member-owned marketing association that aims to promote the uniquely Australian breed of luxury experiential lodges both domestically and internationally.

Ranging from wilderness stays and vineyard retreats to island hideaways and outback camping, each stunning location provides a compelling reason for guests to experience, discover, and connect with all the country has to offer.

Boasting 19 independently owned and operated lodges, this is not your average hotel group but a collective entity of like-minded entrepreneurs passionate about providing an upscale yet intimate experience for sophisticated global travellers.

Luxury Lodges of Australia is devoted to showcasing the country’s extraordinary diversity of place and experiences, underpinned by the blissful luxuries that have come to be anticipated by guests. At the core of what it means to be a luxury lodge is purpose and positive impact.

The various lodges deliver over 300 individual experiences and signature activities, all uniquely designed to provide guests with genuine, memorable, and life-changing visits that centre around the beauty that is Australia’s unforgettable coasts, barefoot paradises, boundless horizons, and fertile mountains.

With both long-established and new lodges and camps, Luxury Lodges of Australia’s common theme is its offering of an outstanding experience devoted to connecting travellers to a clear sense of place through Australia’s sun, sand, and open space.

Luxury Lodges of Australia’s unparalleled style of sophisticated, carefree, experiential luxury is not to be missed.

DISCOVER ABORIGINAL EXPERIENCES

Australia is home to some of the world’s oldest living cultures, with evidence showing settlements as far back as 65,000 years ago.

This diverse and extensive history draws in modern travellers who are increasingly looking for more meaningful and sustainable ways to connect with the people and places they are visiting.

Discover Aboriginal Experiences, a collective of quality, authentic Aboriginal-guided tourism offerings, was formed to answer this call.

Whether you prefer laid-back walking tours or exhilarating quad biking adventures, Discover Aboriginal Experiences is a leader in First Nations tourism. It proudly offers over 200 experiences from 48 businesses across the country, all led and operated by Aboriginal guides who provide guests with a means of connecting genuinely and respectfully with Australian places and culture.

From the red deserts of the outback to the colourful stretches of coral reefs and lush rainforests, Australia is made up of many First Nations peoples, each with their own culture, customs, languages, and laws. With no two Aboriginal experiences the same, you are guaranteed to experience something new and memorable with each tour that will serve to further connect you to the country and its people.

Nowhere else in the world can claim a cultural legacy like that of Australia’s, and with tourism proving to be such a powerful tool for driving positive change and sustainability, Discover Aboriginal Experiences is primed to showcase First Nations-led tourism and the unparalleled majesty of a continent rich in tradition.

Through the organisation’s partnerships with boutique Aboriginal tourism businesses, it plays a crucial role in creating meaningful employment opportunities for First Nations peoples, supporting the preservation and continuation of cultures on traditional lands.

Australian Wildlife Journeys

Dedicated to creating a better future for the country’s wildlife through conservation actions that involve guests, Australian Wildlife Journeys shares stories of the continent through passionate guides who bring local ecosystems to life and educate visitors on the nation’s diverse ecosystems.

Australia is an undeniably special destination for myriad reasons. Offering warm hospitality, world-renowned cuisine, and natural beauty one can only marvel at, the country emits a siren call to those looking for an infinitely memorable experience.

What really entices travellers across the globe to flock to Australia in droves is the country’s endemic wildlife and ethereal biodiversity.

For outdoor connoisseurs looking to experience all of Australia’s remarkable offerings, it can pose a challenge to construct an itinerary that cohesively navigates the country’s climatic conditions, travel distances, species behaviours, and number of tour operators to choose from. This is where Australian Wildlife Journeys comes in.

The collective organisation addresses these needs by grouping together like-minded wildlife tourism operators who are passionate about raising the profile of responsible nature encounters while providing world-class hospitality.

Crucial to these various tourism offerings is the assurance of high-quality guides who connect with visitors, encourage self-reflection, and are respectful of individual, local community values. Those involved are also united by their commitment to providing plentiful information about the wildlife classes and events across each distinctive season.

Additionally, to ensure even richer and more in-depth travel experiences, members of Australian Wildlife Journeys support local vendors and actively reinvest in local communities.

With tours including Aboriginal Culture and Wildlife: Darwin to Adelaide; Tasmania and Southwest Australia – Beaches, Wine, and Wildlife; Christmas Island Birdwatching; Great White Shark Cage Diving; Sunset Whale Watching, and ample more, the organisation and its members actively support and showcase the captivating effervescence the country has to offer.

GREAT WALKS OF AUSTRALIA

With some of the most stunning, accessible, and rewarding walks anywhere in the world, many agree that the best way to see the distinctly extraordinary beauty of Australia is on foot.

Great Walks of Australia – a collection of the country’s greatest multi-day guided walking experiences – is here to help travellers do exactly that.

Journey through the continent’s many unparalleled terrains, embrace the other-worldly wonders of its endemic plants and animal species, and breathe in the salt-laden air as you stand on the precipice of the endless coastline. Experienced guides will bring the many landscapes to life with their in-depth knowledge and passion as they lead you in small, intimate groups, ensuring personal service and safety every step of the way.

Great Walks of Australia currently features 13 guided multi-day adventures, all expertly designed to actively immerse travellers in the country’s most iconic landscapes.

With the promise of outstanding hospitality, you can expect comfort and tranquillity to accompany each adventure as you stay in a diverse range of eco-luxury accommodations, including tents, homesteads, and lodges, all while enjoying gourmet meals, fresh produce, and local wines to sip on as the sun sets over the horizon.

Whether you are an experienced hiker or a first-time explorer, Great Walks of Australia is the ultimate way to decompress from modern worries and spend quality time reconnecting with yourself and the natural world. To add to this feel-good experience even further, you can rest easy knowing that your travel has a low or even neutral impact on the environment and will contribute to preserving the areas you visit for conservation in the future.

From Tasmania’s untamed mountains to Queensland’s ancient rainforests and the jewel-coloured waters of Victoria, embark on an adventure of a lifetime through Great Walks of Australia’s award-winning tours.

ULTIMATE WINERY EXPERIENCES

With a reputation as one of the most outstanding wine-producing countries across the globe, Australia is a sommelier’s dream oasis.

Visit the nation’s renowned wine regions in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania through Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia, a hand-selected collection of premium wineries offering quality experiences based around world-class wines, warm and knowledgeable hospitality, and culinary excellence.

The organisation offers a diverse range of behind-the-scenes and hands-on experiences that go ‘beyond the cellar door’ and epitomise the unique characteristics of each winery and its surrounding region.

Discover qualities distinct to each setting through intimate wine tastings, tours, and blending classes that offer the chance to meet the winemakers and put your own palate to the test. The tours not only reveal the stories behind the family-owned wineries but also allow visitors to interact with products and producers while enjoying the rich diversity that Australian vineyards have to offer.

Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia offers more than just venues to sample and purchase the internationally beloved drink, but an unforgettable experience that highlights quality restaurants, accommodations, tours, and wines that represent generations of farming expertise.

Discover the difference through a plethora of options, including trails, dining and degustation, masterclasses, overnight experiences, business events, and much more.

With signature wines that boast as much personality as their makers, experience first-hand the relaxed and hospitable nature of those in the industry who are passionate about sharing their livelihoods with fellow wine-lovers, both experienced and new, through Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia.

GREAT GOLF COURSES OF AUSTRALIA

Discover world-class golf with Great Golf Courses of Australia, where you can experience the thrill of hitting the pitch Down Under in the country’s most stunning and diverse courses.

Widely considered to be a golfer’s paradise with its vast untouched wilderness, endemic wildlife, exceptional food and wine, and welcoming hospitality, Australia’s courses are challenging, diverse, and unparalleled in their lush appeal.

Proudly showcasing a rich heritage of golfing, the country’s notable tracks include 10 courses that are currently listed in the top 100 in the world, boasting works by internationally acclaimed golf architects such as Dr Alister Mackenzie, Tom Doak, Bill Coore, and Ben Crenshaw.

Great Golf Courses of Australia highlights signature, premier, and unique golf courses throughout the country.

Signature golf courses are the crown jewels of the circuit, with exceptional design, maintenance, hospitality, and facilities. Premier golf courses, meanwhile, offer an experience to suit a wider range of budgets and golfing abilities while still promising a superlative experience, whilst unique golf courses, as indicated by the name, consist of quirky course layouts and packages that are quintessentially and uniquely Australian.

More than just a game, golf creates a sense of community, enables new relationships to be formed, and provides a plethora of mental and physical health benefits to each player.

From the Melbourne Sandbelt to the iconic links of Tasmania, Australia’s golf courses are just as stunning and diverse as the country itself, with award-winning layouts set against vibrant scenery and complemented by typical Australian hospitality – a true hole in one.

GETTING THERE AND AROUND

As the sixth largest country in the world consisting of approximately 7.688 million sqkm of land, traversing around Australia can seem a monstrous feat. However, the country is well-connected through myriad flights, trains, buses, ferries, rental cars, camper vans, and even walking trails, all primed and ready for intrepid visitors to utilise to the fullest.

The majority of travellers will find themselves flying to Australia and landing at one of the country’s 600 airports. With some of the busiest air traffic in the world, Sydney International Airport welcomes an average of 43 million passengers every year and is home to many major airlines, making it a primary hub for international travellers arriving in the country.

Other large airports that serve global flyers include Melbourne Airport and Adelaide Airport, both of which have been ranked in the top 10 airports in the world.

Once in Australia, you have the option to use public transportation, such as trains, buses, and ferries, to get to your desired destination, or you can rent a car or camper van at most airports or city centres.

For one of the most expansive and affordable options, purchasing the Greyhound WHIMit Bus Pass is a top choice for many travellers as it allows you to trek across the country flexibly and hassle-free. If you are looking to cut down on travelling time while still making use of public transport, Australia also boasts spectacular rail journeys that sweep across the continent while offering increased comfort and the feeling of nostalgic romance as you watch the striking landscape speed by.

If you are seeking a more rugged adventure, then the country’s many footpaths and scenic pathways are the optimal choice for you. Passing through parklands, coastal cliffs, and colourful towns, the trails, which can extend past 1,000 kilometres, encompass unique scenery that cannot be experienced anywhere else and can be explored either with high-quality walking shoes or by bike.

No matter how one chooses to explore the country, travellers are spoilt for choice when it comes to experiencing the unparalleled wonders that Australia has to offer.

VIEW THE AUSTRALIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Australia : Tourism Insights

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Eating Europe : Travel Business

Strangford, Northern Ireland. Tower house and courtyard

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Lake Orta : Experience ‘La Dolce Vita’ at its Finest

Bottle Tree on a Mountain Site in Socotra, Yemen

Socotra Island : The Last Stop

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Ben Pipe : Behind the Lens

Autism Adventures Abroad : Conquering Challenges to Forge New Paths

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Tenerife : The Island of Eternal Spring

Re:BC : Sustainability Stories

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EURO 2024 Host Cities : Round Up

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📚 16 BEST Books About Travelling Australia (Novels)

Whether you’re in the throes of planning some Aussie travel or are just looking for some road trip inspiration, reading books about travelling Australia is a good way to keep your spirits high.

There are many reasons people embark on journeys around Australia. For some it’s about the exploration and adventure, while for others it’s to return home or reconnect with loved ones or memories of decades past.

These books about travelling Australia include witty stories, outrageous adventures, sombre mysteries and hilarious experiences that you couldn’t plan if you tried! So, grab a drink, pull out the camp chair and have a read through these truly Aussie tales.

Don’t forget to check out these 20 great kids books for travelling Australia .

We are a participant in affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to ebay.com and other affiliated sites. We may earn a commission from your purchases at no extra cost to you. For more information, see our disclosures here .

Travelling Australia Books

Kimberley Sun

by Di Morrissey

The Kimberley – from the red desert to the remote town of Broome – is the backdrop for Kimberley Sun . This is the enthralling story of modern relationships and the unbreakable ties we all have to the past.

Lily Barton is beautiful, adventurous and 50-something. She is looking for a complete life change. Sami, her daughter, is 30, driving alone through the outback and finally, reluctantly, confronting her family roots. Together they are swept into a world where legends, myths and reality start to converge.

Those who come into their orbit bring stories that change each of them. From Farouz, the old Afghan camel driver, to Bobby, the Chinese/Aboriginal man who is tangled in the murder of a German tourist, to Biddy, the survivor from Captain Tyndall and Olivia’s era… and who is the mysterious artist hiding in the desert? All have a secret and all have a story to tell until each finds their place under the Kimberley sun.

The sequel to Tears of the Moon – a favourite for all Di Morrissey readers.

Pages: 480 On eBay: Paperback & Audio CD →

Are We There Yet?

by Rachael Weiss

Two girls who ‘just wanna have fun’, hit the open road in a quest to discover the perfect ‘solo gal’ holiday. Warm, engaging, and bloody funny, this is also an armchair traveller’s guide to finding happiness in a couples’ world.

For two glorious weeks we’re going to forget about work, leave all care behind, run away from the empty routine of our lives and pretend we are Thelma and Louise, minus the assault and descent into a criminal vortex, of course.’

Rach and Jules, two thirty-something gals, hit the road in search of the ultimate solo holiday and the secret to eternal happiness.

Are We There Yet? is part travelogue, part road trip and for the most part extremely funny. When they’re not trying to tone their bums and impress their sexy, if not-so-bright, fitness leader, dis’ing divorcees over the ninth bottle of chardy, or questioning the pampered existence of Namronette Kitten Seven Space Kitten with a Mission, Rach and Jules are on a quest for truth, honesty and the perfect pub pash. Along the way they contemplate the really big questions, like: What does a single girl do for sex these days? Is there such a thing as a meaningful internet date? What happens when your best friend has the nerve to fall in love? And is it okay to eat basil after it’s been stuffed down a bloke’s trousers?

Whether you’ve been single, are single, know someone who’s single or might indeed be single sometime in the future, Are We There Yet? will have you laughing all the way to the health spa or the nearest bar.

Pages: 228 On eBay: Paperback →

Dancing Home

by Paul Collis

When he was in gaol, he’d begun to prepare himself for the fight of his life, a showdown with the policeman, McWilliams would face life with death, and see who blinked first. Blackie and Rips are fresh out of prison when they set off on a road trip back to Wiradjuri country with their mate Carlos. Blackie is out for revenge against the cop who put him in prison on false grounds. He is also craving to reconnect with his grandmother’s country.

Driven by his hunger for drugs and payback, Blackie reaches dark places of both mystery and beauty as he searches for peace. He is willing to pay for that peace with his own life.

Pages: 240 On eBay: Paperback →

Wife on the Run

by Fiona Higgins

When social media and a mobile phone expose a high school scandal and a husband’s shameful secrets the only thing left to do is run. A beleaguered wife and mother escapes it all on a family road trip – without technology – to reclaim her life and rebuild her family.

A mother’s greatest fear. A wife’s worst nightmare.

When two technology-related disasters hit within days of each other, Paula knows her comfortable suburban life has been irrevocably blown apart. One involves the public shaming of her teenage daughter, the other is a discovery about her husband that shocks her to her core. With her world unravelling around her, Paula does the only thing that makes any sense to her: she runs away from it all.

She pulls her children out of school and takes off on a trip across Australia with her elderly father and his caravan. The only rule is No Technology – no phones, no Facebook, no Instagram, no tablets, games or computers. It’s time to get back to basics and learn how to be a family again.

It all sounds so simple – and for a while, it is. But along the way Paula will meet new, exciting complications, and realise that running away is only a temporary solution. The past has to be faced before the future can begin.

Pages: 432 On eBay: Paperback & Audio CD →

Swallow the Air

by Tara June Winch

When May’s mother dies suddenly, she and her brother Billy are taken in by their Aunty.

But, their loss leaves them both searching for their place in a world that doesn’t seem to want them. While Billy takes his own destructive path, May sets out to find her father and her Aboriginal identity.

Her journey leads her from Australia’s East Coast to the Far North, but it’s the people she meets, not the destinations, that teach her what it is to belong.

Swallow the Air is an unforgettable story of living in a torn world and finding the thread to help sew it back together.

Pages: 216 On eBay: Paperback & Hardcover →

Croc Country

by Kerry McGinnis

Young widow Tilly is making a new life for herself, keeping house for the rangers at the Binboona Wildlife Sanctuary in the isolated wilderness of the north-western Gulf Country. Caring for injured wildlife and helping to run the popular tourist campsite are just the distraction she needs from everything she left behind when her husband, Gerry, and young daughter were lost at sea.

But when the police show up asking questions about Gerry, the peaceful routine she’s built is disrupted as she begins to question what really happened to her family. The arrival of botanist Connor stirs up even more emotion and has Tilly questioning who she can trust. When she and young ranger Luke stumble across evidence of wildlife smugglers on a visit to the local caves, suddenly her sanctuary is no longer safe and it becomes clear the past has well and truly come back to haunt her.

Set against the lush backdrop of the Northern Territory with its vibrant birds and deadly wildlife, this is a chilling and highly evocative family mystery about the wild and dangerous things that can happen in the most remote and untamed corners of our country.

Pages: 368 On eBay: Paperback & Audio CD →

by Louis de Bernieres

Red Dog is a West Australian, lovable friendly red Kelpie who found widespread fame as a result of his habit of travelling all over Western Australia, hitching rides over thousands of miles, settling in places for months at a time and adopting new families before heading off again to the next destination and another family – sometimes returning to say hello years later.

While visiting Australia, Louis de Bernieres heard the legend of Red Dog and decided to do some research on this extraordinary story. After travelling to Western Australia and meeting countless people who’d known and loved Red Dog, Louis decided to spread Red Dog’s fame a little further. The result is an utterly charming tale of an amazing dog with places to go and people to see.

Red Dog will delight readers and animal lovers of all ages.

Pages: 128 On eBay: Paperback, DVD & Audio CD →

Too Much Lip

by Melissa Lucashenko

Too much lip, her old problem from way back. And the older she got, the harder it seemed to get to swallow her opinions. The avalanche of bullshit in the world would drown her if she let it; the least she could do was raise her voice in anger.

Wise-cracking Kerry Salter has spent a lifetime avoiding two things – her hometown and prison. But now her Pop is dying and she’s an inch away from the lockup, so she heads south on a stolen Harley.

Kerry plans to spend twenty-four hours, tops, over the border. She quickly discovers, though, that Bundjalung country has a funny way of grabbing on to people. Old family wounds open as the Salters fight to stop the development of their beloved river. And the unexpected arrival on the scene of a good-looking dugai fella intent on loving her up only adds more trouble – but then trouble is Kerry’s middle name.

Gritty and darkly hilarious, Too Much Lip offers redemption and forgiveness where none seems possible.

Pages: 328 On eBay: Paperback & Audio CD →

Packing Up to Travel Australia

The ultimate pre-travel planner for anyone hitting the road for a big trip!

41-page Planner
Decision-making prompts
Travel set-up planning
Budget estimates & more
DIGITAL & PRINTABLE

Gemma’s Bluff

by Karly Lane

On a working holiday in the country, away from commitments and other people’s expectations, will Gemma find love and a new way of life?

Smart and reliable, Gemma Northcote has always done what’s expected of her. So it’s not surprising that after uni she defers to her father’s wish that she join the family business.

Gemma’s best friend, Jasmine, is a different personality altogether. She thrives on spontaneity, is unpredictable and has generally pursued her own path.

When Gemma and Jasmine decide to spend a working holiday on a large rural property, their friends and family are surprised. Neither has any experience of country life (unless you count Jasmine’s love of McLeod’s Daughters ) and they’re not exactly farming types.

Away from her family, Gemma feels liberated. The longer she’s away the more she questions what she really wants to do with her future. Ultimately, she realises she needs to choose between duty and what’s right for her in life – and love.

From the bestselling author of Bridie’s Choice and Poppy’s Dilemma , this inspirational novel is sure to appeal to anyone who’s questioned the direction they should take for true happiness.

Pages: 368 On eBay: Paperback →

Almost Perfect

by Kelly Denley

After being a full-time wife and mother since the age of 17, by 31 Kelly Denley has lost sight of who she truly is, so when the pregnancy test comes back positive for number eight, she isn’t exactly ecstatic. Then things get a whole lot worse. Postnatal depression takes its toll on Kelly, her father is given just a year to live, her husband is retrenched, one daughter is hospitalised and another on antidepressants and, in a final frightening development, her eldest boy, who suffers from Asperger’s, threatens suicide. Distraught, Kelly blames herself and knows that everything has to change.

As the family gradually find their feet, in a bid to prove she’s more than just a mother, Kelly takes a giant leap out of her comfort zone and dons a school uniform to finish an education cut short by teen pregnancy. The suburban mum, used to sneers about her large brood like ‘Don’t you know what causes it?’ blitzes the HSC with an amazing 97.3.

But that, it turns out, is just the start of an incredible journey for the Denleys. Concerned about her children’s school problems and behaviour, Kelly takes dramatic action, putting her university dream on hold so the family can travel Australia for a year in the hope that the experience will draw them closer together. How Kelly tackles both the joy and pain that lie in wait, from discovering the beauty in nature she’d always been too busy to see and mastering the art of home-schooling in a tent, to nearly drowning in a flooded river and more heartache over her children, makes Almost Perfect an inspiring, moving, yet often hilarious rollercoaster ride of a memoir.

Pages: 320 On eBay: Paperback →

Rose By Any Other Name

by Maureen McCarthy

Rose wants to be alone but instead she’s on a road trip of discovery with her mother. This is a warm, generous novel big on family dynamics and a rich portrait of a feisty young girl facing up to love, loss and life’s big issues.

‘Don’tcha just hate the way you get caught up in stuff without really wanting to? You make a wrong move, and before you know it you’re in some weird scene that isn’t you but … how do you get out of it? Maybe you lied, maybe you stole, maybe you betrayed your closest friend. It happens. Yeah. Then it goes a bit further, and suddenly you’re one of those jerks you hate because … you can’t be trusted.’

Rose is all packed up. She’s got a van full of petrol and a stack of CDs. She’s got a surfboard in the back and a secret that won’t go away. But that’s okay. She also has enough attitude to light up the night sky. Then her mother decides to come along … and Rose’s road trip takes an unplanned U-turn, straight to the heart of last summer.

Pages: 342 On eBay: Paperback & Audio CD →

We of the Never Never

by Aeneas Gunn

In 1902, newly-married Jeannie Gunn (Mrs Aeneas Gunn) left the security and comfort of her Melbourne home to travel to the depths of the Northern Territory, where her husband had been appointed manager of ‘The Elsey’, a large cattle station.

One of the very few white women in the area, she was at first resented by people on and around the station, till her warmth and spirit won their affection and respect. She had an unerring ear and eye for the sounds and sights of the country; and this is her moving and simple account of her life amidst the beauty and cruelty of the land, and the isolation and loneliness – together with the comradeship and kindness of those around her.

The favourite of generations of Australians since it was first published in 1908, We of the Never-Never can truly be called a classic.

Pages: 256 On eBay: Paperback & Audio CD →

Castle of Dreams

by Elise McCune

A ruined castle deep in the rainforest holds a secret that unites three generations of women: two sisters who find themselves in love with the same man as the Second World War rages and, decades later, a young woman determined to uncover the secrets in her grandmother’s hidden past.

Growing up together in a mysterious castle in northern Queensland, Rose and Vivien Blake are very close sisters. But during the Second World War their relationship becomes strained when they each fall in love with the same dashing but enigmatic American soldier.

Rose’s daughter, Linda, has long sensed a secret in her mother’s past, but Rose has always resisted Linda’s questions, preferring to focus on the present.

Years later Rose’s granddaughter, Stella, also becomes fascinated by the shroud of secrecy surrounding her grandmother’s life. Intent on unravelling the truth, she visits the now-ruined castle where Rose and Vivien grew up to see if she can find out more.

Captivating and compelling, Castle of Dreams is about love, secrets, lies – and the perils of delving into the past . . .

Castle of Dreams is set in one of Queensland’s most popular tourist attractions, Paronella Park. During your travels, make sure you visit the beautiful crumbling castle in the Innisfail hinterland, Far North QLD!

Lonely in Longreach

by Eva Scott

Widower Sam Costello has no time for love. When he’s not working on his farm, he’s trying to figure out how to connect with his teenage son Levi.

But Levi is about to finish high school, and he has big plans to move to Sydney for university with his best friend Maddie. If only he didn’t feel so guilty about abandoning his dad. Maddie has her own reasons for wanting to go to Sydney and she’s not going to let Levi’s dad ruin her future happiness. Mr Costello needs a girlfriend and, with her talent for matchmaking, Maddie is the girl to make it happen. By the time Mr C figures out what she’s done, surely he’ll be too in love to be angry.

Journalist Sarah Lewis has a good job, a nice boyfriend and a safe life in Sydney. Though sometimes she wonders if life has more to offer than nice and safe. When she starts working on an article about finding love in the outback she finds herself asking whether journalists should become this invested in their research. But there’s just something about Lonely in Longreach. Could it be that the man behind the dating profile is the key to the passion she has been looking for?

Pages: 384 On eBay: Paperback →

by Andrew McGahan

Gordon, failed writer and bottleshop boy, feels his life is going nowhere and heads north with Wayne in search of their rightful place in the culture of a nation.

‘A lighthouse. A weather station, thousands of miles away. For six months. I drank steadily. With alcohol it all made sense.’

It’s the Bicentennial year and for Gordon failed writer and bottleshop boy it seems his life is going nowhere. It’s time to escape. From his overcrowded house, from Brisbane, from Expo 88, from everything. He stumbles into Wayne who has connections in Darwin and the promise of work. So the two of them head north toward swamps and crocodiles, in search of inspiration, and of their rightful place in the culture of Australia.

1988, McGahan’s second novel, is a prequel to his best-selling debut Praise .

Pages: 324 On eBay: Paperback & Audio CD →

Roadside Sisters

by Wendy Harmer

Meredith, Nina and Annie, three very different friends, are reluctantly approaching middle age and facing the ups and downs of their lives. On a whim they take off on a road trip up the east coast of Australia.

A funny, heartwarming, hugely appealing novel about the enduring strength of women’s friendships. Nina, Meredith and Annie have decided to hit the road one more time. It’s twenty years since they toured together as members of the gospel choir Sanctified Soul. How far have they all come since then? Do they still have anything in common? Elegant Meredith, motherly Nina and the determinedly single Annie are as unlikely companions as you could find.

But like a matched set of 1950’s kitchen canisters of Flour, Sugar and Tea, they always seem to end up together. When a tropical wedding beckons in Byron Bay, 2000 kilometres from their homes in suburban Melbourne, they make the alcohol-fuelled decision to drive a monster mobile home up the coast for the trip of a lifetime. Squabbles and secrets, tears and laughter – not to mention the possibility of finding Mr Right along the way – this trip might tear them apart or it might just save their lives.

A funny and heartwarming story of female friendship, Elvis Presley, k.d.lang and a busted annexe, Roadside Sisters is the hugely appealing new novel from one of Australia’s favourite comediennes, Wendy Harmer.

Pages: 336 On eBay: Paperback →

Amber and Alice

by Janette Paul

Take a hilarious road trip into the Australian outback in this witty romantic comedy, with an enticing family mystery thrown in!

When Amber Jones wakes up in her sister Sage’s speeding car, with no idea how she got there (though the hangover is a clue), all she wants to do is go home. But Sage is convinced a road trip to Alice Springs will finally answer the burning question: who is Amber’s father? Because nine months before Amber’s birth, her late mother Goldie made the same trip . . .

Armed with just a name and Goldie’s diaries, Amber agrees to search for a man she’s never met in one of the world’s biggest deserts.

And that means spending two weeks in a convoy of four-wheel-driving tourists and camping in freezing desert nights. To make matters worse, her fellow travellers hate her and the handsome tour leader Tom thinks she’s an alcoholic.

But slowly the desert starts to reveal its secrets – and Amber must decide which horizon to follow . . .

Pages: 400 On eBay: Paperback →

Where to Find Books While Travelling

Being an avid reader while travelling Australia can be a great way to while away a lazy afternoon in the shade or a cozy night in the van.

But… books are heavy and chunky. Carting a huge stack of books around the countryside just isn’t going to be an option when space and weight limitations are an issue.

While many have made the move to Kindles and digital books, there are still many of us who like to hold the book in our hands and feel the satisfaction of turning the pages.

I’ve never run out of reading material while travelling and you’ll be surprised at where you can find books on offer as you travel.

B ook Swaps

Keep your eyes peeled for Book Swaps, which can be found in Caravan Park offices, along roadsides and in small towns, among other places.

A Book Swap is basically a shelf full of books with a sign inviting you to take any book/s you like for free and in return add one or a few books back to the shelf for someone else to take.

I remember driving past a gorgeous over-sized letterbox-style nook in Byron Bay, which had a ‘Book Swap’ sign and a nice stack of books for the swapping.

Amenity & Laundry Blocks

Stacks of second hand books can often be found in campground amenity blocks and laundry rooms. People often leave the books they’ve finished reading there for someone else to help themselves to, I know I’ve certainly done it a few times myself.

I’ve picked up some interesting reads from amenity and laundry blocks throughout my visits to caravan parks and free & low cost camps alike.

Op Shops are a trove of second hand books and always worth a look when your reading stash is getting low. You can generally pick up books from 50c – $3. Sometimes they’ll even have ‘Fill a Bag for $5.’

Being able to drop your old books off to the Op Shops is always great for clearing out your own space.

Other Travellers

Another great way to swap books is with other travellers. They are usually just as grateful as you are to have a new book or two in circulation and to offload their own finished ones.

Once you’re finished with the books you received, pay it forward and pass them on to the next traveller you meet who’s a fellow bookworm.

Rural Library Memberships

Some Local Councils have Library Memberships available for travellers. I know Queensland Rural Libraries have a membership available which spans quite a few outback towns.

Joining the Rural Library in The Gemfields (Central QLD) was great for the kids. Then we were able to still use that membership card in other towns along the way. You just have to remember to return the books before you leave the region!

Okay, so eBooks are pretty popular with travellers and for good reason. They don’t weight anything and are very portable. There are many Apps you can get for downloading and reading eBooks these days, including Amazon and Booktopia.

Borrowbox is an App which allows you to borrow eBooks and eAudiobooks for free from local libraries. All you need is the free library membership and the App on your device (phone, tablet or kindle).

Once you’re set up, you’ll have access to an extensive online library of eBooks and eAudiobooks, which can be downloaded for a period of time for offline use.

Enjoy your travels around Australia as you live vicariously through these novels!

Kids Travel Journals →

Kindles (eBay) →

Travel Planning Tools

Book , Travel Books , Travel Guidebooks

5 best australia travel guidebooks to read.

Australia is a place of scenic beauty. If you are planning to visit the country in the near future, get some useful travel guide beforehand. Before I take a trip, the first thing that I don’t forget to do is searching and reading a comprehensive travel guidebook written based on a country’s top tourist spots, budget travel guide with tips and advice on things to see and do, where to stay, where to eat, ways to save money and safety & security.

Besides being one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Australia is also a famous wilderness area with deadly animals . I chose these Aussie travel guidebooks as one of the top 5 based on their useful travel resources with expert guides and the quality of reader’s experiences. These are all best when it comes to providing the perfect guide to Australia with featuring up-to-date information on attractions for an unforgettable adventure.

1) In a Sunburned Country

“ In a Sunburned Country ” is one of the best travel memoirs that every visitor to Australia must read. I am a big fan of Bill Bryson’s book . Often his incredible travel stories astonish me. Reading every page he has written in this astounding book is very interesting with sensitivity and humor. Indeed, Bryson has a wonderful sense of humor and you can experience it once you start reading the book. Please note that is not just a travel guide but much more than that!

Without doubt, it is a great book, contains mixture of history text, travelogue, and the author’s personal travel adventures . While reading this book you would get to know most of the interesting things that belongs to Australian such as the endless coastlines, deadliest animals , dry weather, landscape, culture, nature, foods and so on. He loves traveling and writing! What about you? If you are serious about taking a trip to Australia, don’t forget to read this fabulous book as it gives you plenty of information to know what you will see and do.

2) Fodor’s Essential Australia (Full-color Travel Guide)

If Australia is on your bucket list, reading a travel guide like this one is highly recommended. Australia is a vast country with the breathtaking outdoor beauty almost everywhere. It is a truly magical place to explore. “ Fodor’s Essential Australia ” features the country’s amazing diversity, from tropical rain forests to incredible underwater reefs, from vineyards to outback adventures, from hikes through Tasmania to fine dining in glorious Sydney .

This incredible travel guide includes many photographs, dozens of full-color maps, major tourist spots (Sydney Opera House, Fraser Island , The Outback, Uluru ), useful multiple itineraries to explore the country’s most famous destinations, information about diving in the Great Barrier Reef , ways to exploring Australia’s famous wine region, places to eat and accommodations. Due to have lots of pages with plenty of useful travel guides the book might seem to you heavy. However, read this book and get the best vacation ideas, and budget travel tips.

3) Lonely Planet Australia (Travel Guide)

Before my very first trip to Australia I was searching for a useful travel guide to read and take it along the way with me. “ Lonely Planet Australia ” has made my trip really wonderful providing the useful information that I was searching for. It highlights a good overview of Australia including budget travel guide, colorful maps , photographs, history, itineraries, cultural insights , places to eat, things to do, where to stay and etc.

The book is well written, easy to read and follow the insider tips & expert advice as it has been written by the Lonely Planet’s expert authors who know about Australia better than others. During the course of my travel to Australia’s most stunning places I have managed to find lots of exciting things to experience with money saving tips from this great travel guide. I don’t care which part of Australia you are intend to travel to but be sure to read this because it covers country’s most of the major sightseeing spots. Good luck!

4) National Geographic Traveler: Australia, 5th Edition

Australia is incredibly a beautiful place to discover. If you don’t know how to make your trip unforgettable then why are you going to travel to this country? In fact, “ National Geographic Traveler: Australia ” is the ideal travel guidebook that you must use it to help with the trip you are planning to Australia. So far I have reviewed the top three and it is the fourth one that often I really love to read and see the impressive photographs provided in this book.

It starts with a detailed introduction to Australia’s history , food, culture, accommodation, and land. In addition, it explores every corner of the country beginning with Sydney. What impresses me the most about the book is the seven guided drives through some of the land’s most spectacular scenery and numerous guided walks in Sydney and Melbourne . You would hardly find this sort of travel info online! In addition, it features very good information on customs and legal when visiting the country.

5) DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Australia

Here is another most recommended Australia travel guide that you should not miss reading. To tell you the truth I am addicted to Australia. Australia’s gorgeous outdoor beauty and friendly citizen have blown my mind away. I loved everything I experienced during my visit to this vast land. I was very keen to know some awesome guided walking tours there and this is the book that has helped figure it out. I was really impressed and you would be too.

Many readers of the book think that this guide is especially great if you are looking for something other than just a list of hotels and restaurants. I totally agree with this statement! DK Eyewitness Travel Guide’s insider travel tips and essential local information would definitely help you explore the best of Aussie, region-by-region. It is just awesome to see how everything is organized quite nicely and effectively to help you planning a trip or helping the reader to get the most out of a pre planned tour.

If you are looking for a travel guide especially written on Sydney, please read this book “ Top 10 Sydney (Eyewitness Top 10 Travel Guide) ” – Enjoy reading it!

Have you read any of these travel guidebooks? Have you ever been to Australia? I would like to see your opinion, so please share your experience and insights in the comments box below.

Australia Travel Guide

This Australia Travel Guide aims to provide you with simple and stress-free travel planning information and inspiration for planning a trip to Australia.

On this regularly updated page you will find links to useful posts on The Trusted Traveller, budget information, details on types of accommodation available, information on getting around the country and more useful links to resources around the web.

Quick Facts

Capital: Canberra

Language: English

Currency: $ Australian Dollars which is made up of 100 cents. Coins come in 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 denominations and notes in $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 denominations.

Electricity: 230 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs with two or three flat pins are standard. Outlets for 110 volts for small appliances can be found in most hotels.

Australia Travel Guide - The Trusted Traveller

Travel Tips

Australia is made up of eight states and territories; Australian Capital Territory (ACT), New South Wales (NSW), Northern Territory (NT), Queensland (QLD), South Australia (SA), Tasmania (TAS), Victoria (VIC) and Western Australia (WA).

It’s coastline covers almost 60,000 kilometres and is surrounded by the Arafura and Timor Seas to the north, the Coral and Tasman Seas of the South Pacific to the east, the Southern Ocean to the south, and the Indian Ocean to the west.

Exploring Australia means you will likely encounter a wide variety of landscapes. From its pristine beaches, densely populated cities, lush rainforest, rugged mountains and deep red outback; there aren’t many countries that offer such a richly eclectic landscape.

Because Australia is so big, the climate can vary depending on which part of the country you are in and what time of the year it is.

Australia is plagued with extreme weather with 40ºc + temperatures not uncommon in the depths of summers and lows of well below 0ºc in winter. Cyclones and flooding cause havoc up north while bushfires are sadly common in the dry south.

The country is split in two climatic zones: the tropical zone (the north above the Tropic of Capricorn) and the temperate zone (everything south of the Tropic of Capricorn). The tropical zone has two distinct seasons, ‘wet’ (summer) and ‘dry’ (winter), while the temperate zone has all four distinct seasons.

Best Time to Visit

Australia is really an all year-round destination purely because of it’s size.

Spring to summer (October to March) are the most popular times because the majority of the country is warm with hot days and mild nights. Head south for dry heat and try to avoid the tropical north from December to February as it is the wet season with lots of rain, storms and sticky humid conditions.

Autumn to winter (April to September) is a very pleasant time of year to explore the northern and central parts of Australia because of clear warm days and cool nights. You’ll find a little more rain in the south of the country but on average you’ll still get more sunshine. It does snow during the winter months but this is totally confined to the mountains in the south east of the country.

It is always recommend to have a mixture of cash and bank/credit card with you when you travel anywhere in the world and this is no exception in Australia.

ATM’s are available in all cities and towns across the country and credit cards accepted widely too. The exception to this would be in some very small and remote outback towns where it is recommended to have plenty of cash on hand.

Getting There

A large number of major and budget airlines fly direct to capital cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane from New Zealand, the Pacific Islands, Asia and parts of the US and the Middle East. If you are travelling from further afield, you’ll easily be able to find connecting flights through major hubs in Asia, the Middle East and west coast USA.

Remember, Australia a long way from most other parts of the world. It takes almost 20+ hours (with a short stopover) to get from the UK and Europe, and 14+ hours from the US. Asia is a little closer with Singapore and Bangkok about 8 hours away.

I use and recommend Expedia for researching and booking flights all around the world.

Getting Around

Australia is a big country. Bigger than most people actually realise. To give you an idea, if you were to drive from Sydney on the east coast to Perth on the west coast it would take you something like 40 hours without stopping. That is 4,000 kilometres! The same route by air would take you 4 hours.

If you are wanting to cover as much of the country as possible in a short time then flying will be the most efficient method of getting around but it will likely cost you a bit too. While Australia does have budget airlines, they don’t offer the crazy low prices quite like other parts of the world so a bit of research and planning is required to do this on the cheap.

Australia’s major air carrier is Qantas who service every capital city and major rural hub. Catching up with Qantas on popularity is the once budget airline Virgin Australia. They fly between all capital cities and a few of the major hubs as well and offer pricing that is comparative to Qantas, sometimes a little cheaper.

Australia’s budget airlines are Jetstar (part of Qantas) and TigerAir. They both offer lower fares with a budget service, so no meals and you pay extra for carry-on luggage, extra leg-room and entertainment. If your flying regional then it will likely be with REX or one of the many other small regional airlines specific to each region.

If you have a bit more time to spare, Australia is a great country to explore slowly by road, whether it be in a car, van or caravan.

Australia has branches of all the worlds major car hire companies with pick up locations in airports, city centres and some regional centres. Most will offer vehicles in a range of sizes to suit your particular needs.

For longer stays it might be worth buying a used vehicle and then selling it when you leave. Cars, vans, caravans and campervans can all be purchased for as little as a few thousand dollars and sold a few months later to another traveller for about the same price ensuring you don’t really loose any money from it. Gumtree and hostel notice boards are good places to find and later sell, these vehicles.

I use and recommend Hertz for researching and booking car hire all around the world.

Greyhound have an extensive network of buses that cover major cities and tourist hubs the states of New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Northern Territory.

In Western Australia there is TransWA which operates a network of road coaches throughout the state helping you get from Perth to some of the more remote areas of the state.

And in Tasmania Tassielink Transit operate the bus network offering regular route services across Tasmania that includes cities, regional areas and access to bushwalks.

I use and recommend BusBud when comparing and booking buses all around the world.

Australia hasn’t got any where near as good a rail system as regions like Europe and Asia however if you are a rail enthusiast then you will find two of the worlds most iconic rail journey’s running across the country.

The Ghan runs through the Red Centre from Adelaide to Darwin and The Indian Pacific from Adelaide to Perth. Both offer options for those on budget (still not as cheap as other forms of transport) to those looking for the ultimate in rail travel luxury. Each journey takes a few days to complete with short stops along the way.

Where to Stay

Australia caters for everyone when it comes to accommodation. Here is a list of the types of accommodation you’ll find.

Camping/Caravans/Cabins – Most National Parks have at least one bush campsite and every second or third town has a holiday park with campsites, caravans and cabins available. Free camping is also available in some areas.
Hostels – Take your pick from the hundreds of private and chain hostels located in major cities and popular towns around the country. Accommodation in hostels ranges from multi-bed dorm rooms to private single, double and family rooms, with or without shared facilities.

Budget Motels/Hotels – This type of accommodation is quite popular in Australia and you’ll find at least one or two budget motels/hotels in just about ever town in the country. Most will be clean and functional with private facilities and basic amenities.
Hotels/Apartments – Just about ever chain hotel brand in the world is represented in Australia’s capital cities and other major towns. The good thing about this type of accommodation is in most cases you know what you are going to get, a clean, comfortable and modern room with a decent array of facilities in the room and on the property. Apartments are great for longer stays as they allow you a bit more space and the option to self cater.

I use and recommend Booking.com for researching and booking hostel, motel, hotel, apartment and resort accommodation around the world, including Australia.

Luxury Hotels & Resorts – Every capital city and popular tourist area in Australia has its share of 5 star properties, some of which have been named in top lists of accommodations around the world.

B&B’s – Small family run style accommodation like B&B’s can be found all over the country in small towns and popular rural locations. Accommodation is simple yet comfortable and the experience usually comes with friendly hosts and a home cooked breakfast each morning.

Eating out in Australia can be expensive in comparison to some other regions of the world. There are ways around this, especially if you willing to stay in self catering accommodation and do some simple cooking from time to time. Eatability offers an excellent website for eating out in Australia. On it you’ll find venues listed by region, cuisine and price with reviews by past diners to help you choose one that suits you.

Supermarkets – The two big supermarkets you will encounter in most places are Woolworths and Coles. They both offer competitive pricing and just about any grocery item you might be after. In smaller towns you may encounter an IGA which is similar but because of its smaller size you’ll find it a little more expensive. Aldi is a newer supermarket chain which is quickly catching up to the others because of its super cheap prices.
Fast Food / Take-away – Chain fast food stores are in all major centres of the country and along highways as well. If your looking for a cheap and tasty fast food meal, skip the chains like Maccas (what us Aussies call McDonalds) and go for a local family owned hamburger or fish and chip shops instead. You’ll find at least one of this style of take-away store in every city and town of the country.
Cafes – Cafes can vary greatly in price and quality depending on the city/town or area of a city/town. Meals range from simple sandwiches and salads to hot dishes made fresh or served from a food warmer. Cafes offer the chance to have a large hot meal at lunch time so in the night time you’ll only need a snack.

Pubs – Every city or town in Australia has a decent pub. Some small towns with only a few hundred people in them might surprisingly have multiple pubs. Having a schooner, pot, pint or midi (measurements of beer) at the end of a hot day with a simple bistro style meal is just part of the Aussie way. Pubs can vary widely in price these days as a lot in the major cities have been converted to trendy venues serving food that can rival some four start restaurants. However in country towns the meals are cheap and usually made using local produce.
Restaurants – Just about every cuisine in the world is represented in a restaurant or two in Australia which is one of the reason why I love it so much. Prices in restaurants can vary greatly depending on the location and quality of the food but there are some good cheap ones out there, you just need to dig a little deeper.
Fine Dining – Australia has it’s fair share of the worlds best restaurants so if it is fine dining experiences you are after then you won’t be disappointed. Some of the worlds top chefs have been opening new venues in capital cities and sleepy country towns for the past few years giving locals and visitor a taste of the finer side of life.

Things to Do

20 Things to Do in Canberra

Things to Do in the Southern Highlands

35 Free Things to Do in Sydney

Things to Do in Eurobodalla on the NSW South Coast

Things to Do on the NSW Sapphire Coast

Things to Do in Kiama and Surrounds

Things to Do in Jervis Bay

Things to Do in the NSW Snowy Mountains

Things to Do in Port Macquarie

15 Things to Do in Coffs Harbour (and surrounds)

Things to Do on Kangaroo Island

Things to Do in Gippsland Victoria

25 Free Things to Do in Melbourne

The Best Annual Events in Melbourne

Things to Do in Melbourne

Things to Do in Victoria’s High Country

Things to See on the Great Ocean Road

Things to Do in Echuca

Hotel Review: Rydges World Square Sydney

Hotel Review: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains

Hostel Review: Sydney Harbour YHA

The Best Self-Contained NSW South Coast Accommodaiton

Where to Stay in Port Macquarie

Where to Stay in Melbourne

Where to Stay on the Great Ocean Road

Tours & Attractions

Walking the Sea Cliff Bridge

7 Stunning Lookouts in Australia’s Blue Mountains

Visiting Scenic World in Australia’s Blue Mountains

Visiting the Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk

Finding Peace in Sydney’s Chinese Garden of Friendship

The Sydney Tower Eye Skywalk Experience

Best Things to See Around Sydney Harbour

7 Eurobodalla Culinary Delights That Should Not Be Missed

A Magical Oyster Tour on the NSW South Coast

How to Climb Mt Kosciuszko (outside of winter)

Our Luxury Murray River Cruise Aboard the PS Murray Princess

Our Top 4 Kangaroo Island Wildlife Experiences

7 Things You Can Expect on a PS Murray Princess Cruise

What to See & Do in Flinders Chase National Park, Kangaroo Island

A Tour of the Buchan Caves in Gippsland Victoria

Getting Around Guides

Getting Around Sydney

How to Get to Kangaroo Island (plus the best ways to get around)

Inspiration

5 Reasons Why I Love Sydney

The 16 Best NSW South Coast Beaches

5 thoughts on “Australia Travel Guide”

What a treasure trove of information your blog is! Wow. I am not sure when I’ll be able to get to Australia, but I know that when I finally do, I’ll be using your advice a LOT! 🙂 I’ve been wanting to see this continent ever since I read a book about Australia as a teen, and that was quite a while ago. But it’s always been too far and too expensive to visit. Some day I will, though…

Thanks Jolanta. Really appreciate your feedback. I do hope you get a chance to visit Australia sometime soon and when you do make sure you let me know!

Hi Jen, do you having any info. on Tasmania. We are planning a trip to Tasmania in Sept/Oct 2017.

Hi Mag, Tassie is still on my list of places to visit someday so no sorry, right now I can’t offer you any advice. I hope you enjoy your trip there!

Travel Books

Have you caught the travel bug? Get essential travel tips from the places you want to visit and even learn the language with BIG W's range of travel books and language dictionaries.

Where to Camp Guide

Australia (22nd Edition) by Sarah Reid

The Travel Book by Lonely Planet

Explore Australia 2025 by Explore Australia

Top Walks in Australia 2nd edition by Melanie Ball

Touring Atlas Australia Road & 4WD

Sydney & Blue Mountains Street Directory (Truckies Information Included) 2025 61st ED

Off the Leash in Australia by Shandos Cleaver

Experience London: Lonely Planet Travel Guide 1st Edition

Experience Paris by Lonely Planet

Experience Australia by Caoimhe Hanrahan-Lawrence

The Complete Trip in a Van Guide to Australia by Bec Lorrimer and Justin Lorrimer

Undiscovered Queensland by James Vodicka

Adelaide Street Directory 2025 63rd ED

Amazing Train Journeys by Lonely Planet

Brisbane Refidex Street Directory 2025 69th ED

Camping Around Australia (5th Edition)

Day Trip Sydney: 52 Nature Adventures by Evi O and Andrew Grune

Discovering Natural Tasmania

+ delivery fee

Dream Trips of the World by Lonely Planet

Escape to Nature: Visit 75 of Australia's Best National Parks by Australian Geographic

Experience France by Lonely Planet

Experience Italy: Lonely Planet Travel Guide 1st Edition

Experience Japan: Lonely Planet Travel Guide 1st Edition

Experience Tokyo: Lonely Planet Travel Guide 1st Edition

Experience Vietnam: Lonely Planet Travel Guide 1st Edition

Garmin BlueChart g2 Marine Maps - Philippines

Lonely Planet: The Travel Hack Handbook

Luckies 82.5cm Scratch Off World Map Wall Hanging Travel Poster w/ Gold Foil

Perth & Surrounds Street Directory 2025 67th ED

SPLOSH Travel Board Australia Map Desk 27cm x 22cm

SPLOSH Travel Board Australia Map Large 99.2 x 7 x 70.7cm

SPLOSH Travel Board Australia Map Small 53.5cm x 36.5cm

SPLOSH Travel Board Large World Map 93.5 x 64.5cm

SPLOSH Travel Board New Zealand Desk Map 22 x 2 x 27cm

SPLOSH Travel Board Small World Map 53.5cm x 36.5cm

Tasmania by Steve Waters

Top Walks in Tasmania by Melanie Ball

Top Walks in Victoria 2nd edition by Melanie Ball

Ultimate Caravan Trips: Australia by Catherine Best

Ultimate Coastal Road Trips: Australia by Lee Atkinson

Ultimate Island Escapes: Australia by Emma Shaw

Ultimate Road Trips: Australia by Lee Atkinson

Ultimate Weekends: Australia by Emma Shaw

Under the Stars Camping Australia and New Zealand

Australia's Ultimate Bucket List 2nd edition by Adams, Jennifer/Bizzell, Clint/De Fry, Emma

Blue Mountains Best Walks by Veechi Stuart

Hidden Sydney by Trevor McAlister

Travel to Australia: Tips and Information 2024 Guide

Everything you need to know about planning travel to Australia in our epic destination guide.

Australia is a vast and bountiful country that offers beauty, leisure and adventure at every turn.

It consists of not only gorgeous and unique landscapes and wildlife, but also the famous outback culture, quirky small towns and well-developed coastal cities making travel to Australia a must.

Road trips are a great way to see the country. The same vastness that makes a road trip across Australia seem daunting is the very reason to explore it by vehicle.

Wildlife is one of the main reasons to travel to Australia. Approximately 90% of the animals that are native to Australia cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Australia is also known for its world-class beaches . Whether you want to soak in the sun, catch a few waves or snorkel or scuba dive, there is plenty to do along the nearly 40,000 km of coastline!

And, of course, you could spend days or weeks exploring the stunning landscape of the Australian Outback .

In case you couldn’t tell, there are plenty of reasons to travel to Australia.

Now let us help you plan your trip!

There are so many exciting things happening in Australia right now, and it really is one of the biggest bucket list destinations on the planet! If you have any questions about travelling Australia that aren’t answered in this guide feel free to drop us an email.

The Perfect One Day In Brisbane Itinerary (2024 Guide)

Brisbane to cairns drive – the perfect road trip itinerary, the ultimate guide on how to spend one day in sydney [2024], travelling in australia: at a glance.

Here are the basics of travel to Australia.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane

Australian Dollar. 1 beer = $8-9AUD (See current exchange rates )

ENTRY / VISA:

You will need a visa to travel to Australia unless you are a citizen of New Zealand. Most travellers to Australia will qualify for a free visa entitling them to stay in the country up to one year. Be sure to check this list of these eligible countries to determine if you can apply online for your 3 month travel visa.

Generally speaking Australia is regarded as a very safe country. The crime rates are pretty low and most crime against tourists is petty theft. In big cities such as Sydney and Melbourne you should take the usual precautions.

ELECTRICITY:

The standard voltage is 230V at 50 Hz frequency. Socket Type 1 (Be sure to get your universal travel adapter before you leave)

TRANSPORTATION:

Australia is huge. So you will likely travel by a combination of domestic flights, trains and buses. Although rental cars are great options for exploring Australia.

Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads .

Top 5 Travel Experiences in Australia

With so much to see and do in Australia , it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Australia you need to plan to add these 5 activities to your itinerary.

Go Snorkelling/ Diving

The underwater world is at its finest in the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you are certified to dive, prefer to snorkel or just want to experience the largest reef in the world by boat, a trip to the Great Barrier Reef should be near the top of your list of things to do when travelling in Australia.

Snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef .

Cradle Mountain Places To Visit In Tasmania

Hike Incredible Landscapes

Whether taking an excursion to Tasmania or a day trip to one of the many beautiful national parks, there are many great hikes to do throughout Australia.

Hike throughout Tasmania !

Take an Epic Roadtrip

Australia is ripe for driving expeditions. Whether you are a hardcore overlander, prefer to drive by rental car or want to experience van life at its finest, Australia offers some of the best road trips in the world. Drive along the Great Ocean Road, head inland to Uluru or pick any two towns and drive.

Tour the most famous Australian road trip along the Great Ocean Road .

Catch a Wave

Bondi Beach is world-famous for its picturesque sand and clear blue water. Catch a wave on a surf or bodyboard or simply enjoy the beach for what it is. If you really want an experience world-class waves to surf your way up the Gold Coast.

Take a surf lesson at the famous Bondi Beach:

View Sydney from Above

Sydney Harbour is one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Check out the busy city and bustling harbour by climbing to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The views of the city are sure to not disappoint!

See it all in this one-day Sydney itinerary .

Other Things to do in Australia

Swim with whale sharks . The Ningaloo Reef is the best place to swim with the gentle giants of the sea. A trip of this kind is not soon to be forgotten!

Explore the Blue Mountains . Just an hour outside of the busy streets of Sydney and you’ll find yourself surrounded by pristine wilderness .

Head out on a vineyard tour . Australian wine is some of the best in the world and you can sample several as your tour Margaret River .

Go Whale Watching. It is mystical and spiritual to encounter massive whales in the wild. Enjoy an experience from Hervey Bay among others in Australia.

Skydive . Sure you won’t see the entire country. But if you skydive at one of the most popular places in Australia you will see Rottnest Island and the beautiful surrounding waters.

Climb Mount Kosciuszko . This mountain in mainland Australia’s tallest peak at just over 2,200 meters. Add it to the list of continental peaks you have to summit.

Sail around the Whitsunday Islands . These islands are among the most diverse in the world offering rainforest hikes, white sandy beaches and the Great Barrier Reef. Touring these islands is an absolute must.

Take the train across the country . Splurge on a little scenic luxury trip and enjoy the countryside of Australia as you zip around the country, er continent.

Take a tour of Kangaroo Island . The island is Australia’s third-largest and taking a tour will reveal that it is home to a variety of animal species and a vast wilderness to explore .

Visit Wineglass Bay . There are many reasons to visit Tasmania and Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park is among the top. Be sure to give yourself enough time to explore the other great places to see in Tasmania .

Search for pearls in the sea . So you may not find any of your own, but Broome has a thriving pearl industry in its pristine waters and you are welcome to dive into the experience of making the world your oyster.

Hike the Larapinta Trail . This trail is among the top trails in all of the world and traverses the Northern Territory out of Alice Springs. Be sure to hike this trail as it is growing in popularity year after year.

Visit the Sydney Opera House . Perhaps the most iconic image of Australia, aside from a cuddly koala or kangaroo, that you can tour or take photos of from seemingly anywhere in Sydney.

Be Sure to Check Out These Other Amazing Things to do in Australia

Best Places to Visit in Australia

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Australia. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay.

Narrowing down the best places to travel in Australia is difficult. From picturesque beaches to arid desert, Australia offers a wide range of places to visit and things to see and do.

Here are our top 5 places to visit in Australia.

Here is where you will find Australia’s most famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera, the Harbour Bridge and its surrounded by plenty of national parks if you want a change from the city scenery.

Be sure to add these things to do in Sydney to your itinerary.

Great Barrier Reef, Things To Do In Cairns

The capital of Queensland and one of Australia’s largest cities, Brisbane is a highly sought after destination for those coming Down Under. The city is rich with history, a vibrant food scene, beautiful views and so much to do.

Start planning with these awesome things to do in Brisbane .

Uluru is located in the centre of the country and is unique for being very isolated. Known for natural wonders such as the massive monolith Ayers Rock, Uluru is full of spectacular scenery and beautiful landscapes.

See our guide on the top things to do in Uluru .

Twelve Apostles Adventure Activities In Australia

Of all the cities in Australia, Melbourne is seen as the cultural one. It is full of international visitors and residents, which is surely a testament to its attractive vibe. The city is equally adored by patriotic Melbournians; they will be the first to tell you how amazing it is, and they are usually happy to impart details of their favourite spots.

Spend the perfect 3 days in Melbourne with this itinerary.

Tasmania is especially well known for its natural beauty in breathtaking Freycinet National Park, the Bay of Fires and Cradle Mountain. Simply put, there are so many things to do in Tasmania!

Plan your trip with the best 2-week Tasmania itinerary .

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Australia, reference our following city travel guides:

* City Guide * Itinerary * Day Trips

* State Guide * Places to Visit * Itinerary * Camping Guide

Gold Coast Adelaide Cairns Byron Bay Broome Noosa Blue Mountains Airlie Beach Kangaroo Island

Hervey Bay Esperance Fraser Island Port Stephens Great Ocean Road Uluru Exmouth Margaret River The Whitsundays Darwin

Be Sure to Check Out These Other Awesome Places to Visit in Australia .

Best Australia Travel Itinerary

Australia is huge and offers so many opportunities to explore its vastness. It would be easy to spend weeks or months in any one part of the country.

So trying to see the whole of Australia might seem overwhelming.

Depending on how long you have to travel to Australia, where you plan to visit and what you plan to do, you have plenty of options.

We’ve put together a few Australia itineraries that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit.

Kangaroo Petting Australian Reptile Park

2-Week Australia Travel Itinerary Highlights

If you only have 2 weeks you’re going to have to choose which side of Australia to visit and you’re going to miss out on a lot. But that’s OK because you can always plan a return trip!

The more popular side will be New South Wales + Queensland on the eastern shore of the continent. However, there is also plenty to see in Western Australia as well.

3-Weeks to 1 Month Australia Travel Itinerary Highlights

If you have between 3 weeks and a month to explore Australia then you can combine both the New South Wales + Queensland and Western Australia loops with some reasonably priced domestic flights to connect you in the bigger cities.

Additionally consider adding on the following cities/activities:

6 – 8 Weeks + Australia Travel Itinerary Highlights

Most people who travel to Australia will spend approximately 2 months visiting the country.

If you are trying to get a taste of the entire country, the quickest and most thorough way to see the country would be to follow this itinerary.

Australia Trip Planning

Best time to visit australia.

Australia is located in the Southern Hemisphere and thus has opposite seasons from most of the world. This can be confusing, so make sure to plan accordingly!

Additionally, the country is so large and offers such varied climates and landscapes that the weather you experience depends on the region and time of year in which you’re travelling.

If you are planning to travel to Australia during summer (December – February), know that this is the most popular time to visit Australia.

But during fall and spring, the tourism and temperatures fall off. This makes this time of year perhaps the most ideal time to visit any place in Australia.

You can still enjoy most of the outdoor activities for which Australia is known without dealing with the large crowds and expenses of the busy tourist season.

This is also an ideal time to explore the Australian Outback or to swim with whale sharks along the western coast.

If you are interested in winter sports, Australia also offers plenty of opportunities to ski and snowboard. You can find yourself in great ski slopes within a few hours of landing at the airport.

So really Australia has it all! Depending on what you would like to see and do, you can plan to travel to Australia at any time of the year!

Australia Travel Budget Guideline

Travelling in Australia is not cheap, and many people are unprepared how expensive Australia really is.

However, if you plan accordingly you can find ways to have an amazing experience while not breaking the bank.

Be prepared with these Australia travel tips so that you do not end up spending more money than you should.

Some of the average costs you can expect in Australia are as follows:

Note that transportation costs will vary by how much you intend to travel and these include budgeting for various domestic flights in addition to standard metro transportation.

Australia’s Iconic Whitsunday Islands Are Simply Breathtaking.

Budgeting Tips:

Here are some of our tips for spending less when travelling in Australia:

Cook as many of your meals as possible
Use local transport when available
Couchsurf or look for AirBnB deals ( use our link to get $35 off your first Airbnb stay )
Seek free wifi in public places
Get a pre-paid phone plan from a supermarket. Telstra has the best coverage outside of major cities, but they are also the most expensive.
Work for your room – some hostels let you work a couple of hours daily in exchange for free room
Drink less (tough, we know!). The average price of a pint in Australia is AUD$8 -$9 and they can quickly add up!
WWOOF – is a program that connects young travellers with organic farms. You work in exchange for free accommodation and board.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day.

Budget Traveller ($60-90 Single / $100+ Couples)

If you’re a backpacker and you stay in hostels, use local transport and cook many of your meals – you could plan to spend around AUD$60-90/per day.

Mid-Range Traveller ($100-200 Single / $150+ Couple)

Couples will share some expenses, such as accommodation, but will also incur more individual expenses.

To stay on a budget you will want to follow the general budgeting tips but also look to possibly purchase a used vehicle or campervan for longer trips to Australia.

This can combine your transportation and accommodation costs.

Luxury Traveller ($350+ Single / $500+ Couple)

You can spend as much as you want to spend when you travel to Australia.

It is likely the biggest difference in your budget will be upgrading your accommodation, adding a few extra drinks with your meals or nights out and catching flights around the country instead of overnight buses.

Getting to and Around Australia

As an island nation, Australia is most accessible from flights arranged from many of the larger cities of Europe, North America, Asia and South Africa.

But depending on where you are travelling from, expect to spend a fair amount on the plane ticket and quite a bit of time in the air.

Our best advice is to do research and buy your ticket as soon as possible. Booking several months in advance will provide you the most consistently lowest fares.

Additionally, major airlines offer seasonal promotions and occasional discounts so stay alert!

One of the best ways to make sure you get the best deal is to sign up for email alerts to receive special offers from airlines such as Qantas, Virgin Australia, United and Delta.

It is also a good idea to browse for flights in incognito mode. Or alternatively, you can clear the cache in your browser periodically.

Many travel sites will charge you higher fares if they know you are visiting their sites frequently to search for flights.

Google Flights also offers some of the best initial research for fares from your destination.

However, be sure to check fares directly with the airline as there may be unspecified fees and regulations not listed in the Google Flights results.

Entry Requirements

You will need a visa to travel to Australia unless you are a citizen of New Zealand.

Most travellers to Australia will qualify for a free visa entitling them to stay in the country up to one year.

Be sure to check this list of eligible countries to determine if you can apply online for your 3-month travel visa.

Getting Around Australia

Transportation in and around Australia is as varied as the country itself.

However, because it is so large you will likely experience a combination of transportation options wherever you plan to travel in Australia.

Australia has a fantastic domestic air network that allows you to connect to points all across the country. Some of the airlines that offer great deals to hop across the continent include:

Virgin Australia
Tiger Airways

The wide selection in airlines and routes offers fairly competitive prices especially when it comes to the Sydney-Melbourne leg of travel.

If you’re flying out to a remote destination such as Uluru, Hamilton Island or Darwin – your best bet is to book well in advance. But then still expect fares to be a little pricey.

If you have the time and want a truly unique experience you can cross the country aboard the Indian Pacific railway . Expect some of the best service, food and scenery you can imagine when travelling in Australia by train.

This is the only way to cross the country by train. However, it is very expensive.

Bus is the best way to travel in Australia on a budget. Greyhound buses operate in most of the capital cities and will connect you to pretty much anywhere in the country you would like to go.

The prices for intercity bus travel are modest. Additionally, many companies offer discounts for students.

The bus is also a great way to travel in many of the larger cities.

Not only can you cover a lot of ground by using the public bus system in places like Sydney, Melbourne and Perth but also it will save you quite a bit of money to spend on other things.

Rental Cars

If you’d like to travel in Australia at your own pace, renting a car is your best option .

However, it can be pricey especially if you plan to pick up the vehicle in one city and drop it in another.

But nothing will beat the freedom you have to go to the places you want to see and do them at your own pace.

If you are really into exploring the country with the most amount of freedom, consider renting a campervan .

Campervans combine the flexibility of driving at your own pace and itinerary with the freedom to stop and sleep pretty much anywhere along your journey.

Many campervans come fully equipped to be able to prepare your own meals and be self-sustainable for days on end as you explore the country.

Petrol prices vary, depending on where you are travelling from. For example, they are lower than those in the UK and Europe, but higher than in many places in North and South America.

One thing to keep in mind is that distances between places in Australia are large. So it is very likely that you will be driving long distances while travelling in Australia.

The same vastness that makes a road trip across Australia seem daunting is the very reason to explore it by vehicle. Some of the best attractions are only reachable via car because they are remote and well off the beaten path.

Depending on how much time you are willing to commit to driving across the country, you could take weeks or months to absorb the landscape, wildlife and culture of the Australian people.

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.

Apps and Technology

Technology can help you stay safe and make the most of your travels to Australia.

Here are a few we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

XE Currency – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around.
Express VPN – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in Australia. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel.
The Happiest Hour – This app helps you find the best drink deals wherever you are travelling in Australia
BeachSafe – Search every beach in Australia and know the hazards before you get in the water.
Uber – Yep, you know what to use Uber for. Catch rides in any major Australia city for a fraction of taxi fares.

Best Things to Eat in Australia

Australia has a variety of dishes to represent the varied cultural and historical aspects of the country.

While known more for its beer than its food, there are several types of food that you do not want to miss when travelling in Australia.

Here are a few of the best options to explore:

The Lamington – This is the national cake of Australia. It is a square-shaped sponge cake that comes with chocolate icing and has coconut sprinkled all over it. Sometimes it has jam in the middle.

Vegemite on toast – Vegemite is a brown food paste that doesn’t look appetising at all. But Australians swear on it. It is most popularly used like jam on toast.

Grilled Kangaroo – While many people visit Australia to view wildlife such as kangaroo , it is also a pretty popular meal. While it tends to dry out so it’s usually cooked from rare to medium, it is delicious when served with rosemary, plums, oranges, peppers, juniper, garlic and red currant.

Meat pies – Meat pies are every Australian’s favourite childhood snack. It is nearly always on the menu, whether it be as an appetiser at a restaurant, house party or sporting event. You’ll find meat pies usually served with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Fish & Chips – One thing is for sure, Australia has plenty of fresh, delicious fish to create this traditional meal. Regardless of what part of the country you visit, it’s likely you’ll find this plate anywhere in Australia to compliment a nice cold beer.

Places to Stay in Australia

Australia has a variety of types of accommodations for which you will find suitable for most budgets. In general, expect to pay more for a night in Australia than most other countries in the world.

But for what you are searching, it is likely you will find the perfect place and price.

Types of Accommodations

As in nearly all other places in the world, accommodation is Australia is varied and depends on your desires, budget and location.

When travelling in Australia you can find accommodation that ranges from bed and breakfasts to hotels, hostels and homestays.

Australian Bed & Breakfast & Guesthouses

You can find family-run guesthouses popping up all over Australia. They can vary a lot by style, from converted barns, bungalows to townhouses.

Rates vary as well depending on the location of the guesthouse and facilities offered.

They offer reasonably priced comfortable rooms and you can also enjoy the family feel, the home-cooked dinners and rely on information provided by the owners.

Hostels are the most popular way for budget travellers to find accommodation while travelling in Australia. However, they are no longer just for students and younger people.

Many hostels in the country offer the kind of amenities that attract people from all walks of life. Usually, they offer shared dorms, cooking facilities, communal area with TV, 24-hour reception and laundry facilities.

Additionally, hostels are a great way to meet people and learn about other places to visit and things to do in Australia.

Hotels can be considerably expensive in Australia. Even ones that are not deemed as luxury or boutique hotels can carry a pretty heavy cost.

If you’re looking for maximum comfort then staying in a hotel is the right choice. But be prepared to shell out for that comfort when travelling in Australia.

Camping & Caravan Parks

One of the most popular ways to see Australia is to travel by camper van.

Rent a camper or a caravan and you can go camping anywhere! Whether it be in national parks or outside of the city limits.

The best thing is that you will be able to experience the country more fully and save money that you’d otherwise spend on accommodation.

Another good option in recent years is AirBnB, and there are more and more amazing places popping up to stay for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are popping up, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay.

If you’re looking for an awesome place to stay in the area, we personally love using Airbnb. If you’ve never used the platform before, sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first booking .

Australia Travel Tips

General australia travel tips.

While there are many basic travel tips we suggest you use when travelling to Australia, there is also plenty of Australia-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be.

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Australia:

Time . One of the most common mistakes that first time travellers make is trying to experience Australia within 2-3 weeks. This is a continent not just a country. It is best to choose just two or three areas to focus on your first visit. Otherwise, you will risk spending most of your holiday in transit.
Cost . Australia is very expensive, make sure to either cut down your costs or apply one of our tips to get a decently priced accommodation – also make sure to bring twice as much money than how much you originally intended to.
Tipping . Tipping for services in Australia is not mandatory and most of them are not used to it. Only tip if you exceptionally enjoyed the service.
Sun Protection . The sun is very harsh – pack a lot of sunscreens!
Distances . The distances between major cities are bigger than in Europe or the US. Once you’re out of the city you already feel like you’re in the wild!
Seasons . Australia is in the southern hemisphere which means that all seasons are completely opposite of the northern hemisphere. That’s true for the southern part of the country but not the north. Which in returns means that it’s ideal to visit Sydney from November – April but it’s the exact opposite if they want to visit the Great Barrier Reef!

READ MORE: Our comprehensive list of Australia travel tips to make your journey safer, more enjoyable and more affordable!

Australia Packing List

We always travel with a core packing list wherever we go. And when it comes to Australia, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you.

Check out our travel essentials and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below.

Staying Safe in Australia

Generally speaking, Australia is regarded as a very safe country.

The crime rates are pretty low and if by any chance tourists end up being victims of crime it’s usually a case of pickpocketing.

In big cities such as Sydney and Melbourne you should take the usual precautions:

Do not walk alone at night in poorly lit areas
Don’t leave your valuables unattended
Don’t carry your wallet in your back pocket

The biggest danger when travelling in Australia actually comes from natural hazards and animals.

Every year dozens of tourists drown on one of Australia’s busy beaches because of strong waves and riptides. Wildlife attacks account for a handful more incidents.

But in general, you should feel very safe when you travel to Australia.

A Sunset On The Beach Is The Best Ending For A Day In Jervis Bay.

Medical System in Australia

The public health care system in Australia is called Medicare. Australian hospitals are renowned for world-class medical facilities and the highest standards of care.

The Australian government has Reciprocal Healthcare Agreements with a couple of countries which allow travellers access to subsidised health services.

Since there’s always a risk from natural hazards, dangerous animals and simple accidents while exploring the country, it is always advised to buy travel insurance.

Travel insurance will cover loss, theft, accidents and various medical problems.

It is especially recommended if you plan on doing activities that carry a certain degree of risk such as scuba diving, travelling to remote areas, bushwalking etc.

Staying Connected in Australia

Staying connected in Australia is harder than you think it would be. The country is known for abysmally slow internet.

So if you’re trying to keep up with work while you are on the road, it may be a bit difficult.

But there are definitely economical ways to stay connected while you travel in Australia.

We feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few other options.

Good Idea: Rent a Portable WiFi Device

There are a variety of portable WiFi device rental companies throughout Australia.

Most plans include unlimited data use – although this is typically limited 4G which then reduces to 3G after some small consumption.

Remember that the internet in Australia is notoriously slow so be patient and prepared to spend around $5 -$10 per day for the services.

Reserve your mobile WiFi device .

Better Idea: Access Free WiFI

One of the best, and certainly the most affordable, ways to stay connected when you travel to Australia is by taking advantage of the many free WiFi hotspots throughout the country.

Of course, these are most commonly found in densely populated cities and at private establishments like McDonald’s.

But if you time your desire to surf the web with the need to grab a bite to eat or a cup of joe then it will still likely work out cheaper than either purchasing a SIM card or renting a mobile WiFi device.

Best Idea: Purchase a SIM Card

SIM Cards make staying connected during international travel much easier. You can purchase prepaid SIM cards in Australia to use in any unlocked mobile device.

These will give you the greatest flexibility in staying connected while you travel.

Purchase a SIM card today .

Be a Responsible Traveller in Australia

As with most countries, when travelling to Australia there are several things you can do to be a responsible traveller.

Consider the following:

Mind your use of plastics. This includes straws, bags and bottles. Consider carrying a reusable straw, waterbottle and bags for shopping.
Buy local. Supporting smaller merchants helps local economies.
Choose sustainable tour operators. This is especially true for all tours into nature preserves, those that deal with animals, or those that will take you to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef.
Leave it better than you found it. Pack out any of your waste, mind the local rules, stay on trails and don’t touch or feed the wild animals.
Avoid activities that involve touching wild animals. If a tour has to. pursue an animal in the wild, it is likely presenting more harm and discomfort to the animal than if you are approached by the animal.

Books to Read About Australia

You’ve seen Crocodile Dundee and think you know everything about Australia? Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Australia.

The Songlines (Bruce Chatwin) – Set in the Australian Outback, this novel documents the source of the “Dreaming Tracks” of the Aborigines. Buy here .
The Secret River (Kate Grenville) – Historical fiction about the settlement of New South Wales by an English convict in the early 1800s as part of his sentence. Buy on Amazon .
In A Sunburned Country (Bill Bryson) – Half scientific, half anecdotal account of the famous writer who set out to explore all of the wilderness of life in Australia. Buy on Amazon .
The True History of the Kelly Gang (Peter Carey) – A historical fiction tale about the famous Ned Kelly from the perspective of letters written to his young daughter while he was on the run. Buy on Amazon .
The Harp In The South (Ruth Park) – An Australian classic about life in Sydney during the Great Depression. Buy on Amazon.

Booking Resources

I know, I know – we’ve already mentioned these resources a bunch in this travel guide.

But here’s the thing… we know you’re going to want and need these resources to help you save money and have a more enjoyable trip!

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!

Read our australia posts, atherton tablelands waterfalls – the 10 best cascades to see, 16 best cairns day trips not to be missed [2024 guide], warrumbungles walks – the ultimate hiking guide [2024], grampians walks – ultimate guide to the best hikes [2024], the 18 best lamington national park walks, queensland, the 6 best nsw road trips – epic drive itineraries [2024 edition], 7 day gold coast itinerary (2024 guide), the perfect sydney itinerary for 3-5 days, the ultimate western australia road trip itinerary, mt field national park – travel guide and itinerary [2024], the ultimate travel guide to the tasman peninsula [2024], queensland road trips – 11 best drive itineraries [2024].

Complete Australia Travel Guide, What You Need to Know

Australia is best known as the Land Down Under with kangaroos and koala bears. Other famous landmarks include the Outback, the Great Barrier Reef, the Sydney Harbor Bridge, and the Opera House. And there is so much more! The country receives over 9.3 million tourists each year. Planning international travel can be overwhelming and time-consuming while working full-time. Use this Australia travel guide and the following Australia travel blog posts to plan your perfect vacation. The top destinations in Australia are Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.

Harbor Bridge Sydney Australia Things to do

Why Visit Sydney Australia

Sydney is famous for the Opera House, Harbour Bridge climb, koalas, and Bondi Beach. It is also a simple day trip away from the Blue Mountains.

READ Top Things to Do in Sydney Australia

READ One Day in Sydney Australia’s Blue Mountains

Federation Square Melbourne Australia THINGS TO DO

Why Visit Melbourne Australia

Melbourne has been referred to as the world’s most livable city. The city has narrow lanes, covered arcades, gardens, street art, coffee houses and cafes, and fairy penguins. It is also a day trip away from the famous Great Ocean Road and the famous Brighton beach boxes.

READ Top Things to Do in Melbourne Australia

Waterfront Cruise Brisbane River Brisbane Australia

Why Visit Brisbane Australia

Brisbane is located in Queensland along the gorgeous Gold Coast. Brisbane is the third-largest city in Australia. It is known for its picture-perfect bridge, manmade lagoon, pedestrian-only shopping street, and koala bears. Tangalooma Resort on Moreton Island is an easy day trip away for sand boarding, snorkeling a shipwrecked reef, and hand-feeding wild dolphins.

READ Top Things to Do in Brisbane Australia

READ Tangalooma Resort Australia, Day Trip Itinerary

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon Cairns Australia things to do two day itinerary

Why Visit Cairns Australia

Cairns is known for its rainforests, reefs, waterfalls, night market, koala bears, sky rail, scenic railway, crocodiles, and deadly jellyfish. Cairns is a great location to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef and explore Australia’s rainforests.

READ Top Things to Do in Cairns Australia

What You Need to Know When Planning a Trip to Australia

Where is australia.

Australia is in the southern hemisphere, between the Indian and the Pacific ocean. The country has a total population of 26 million. Australia is almost as large as the USA, is the world’s sixth-largest country. The country measures about 2,485 miles wide and about 2,398 miles long. Canberra is the federal capital of Australia.

What is the language is spoken in Australia?

Australia does not have an official language. Australian English is the primary dialect, it differs from US and UK English in terms of spelling and grammar. You may also hear Mandarin, Punjabi, Filipino/Tagalog, and Arabic. Australians use a lot of slang, google phrases before you arrive. Do not be offended if you hear Australians curse.

Do I need a visa to visit Australia?

All visitors to Australia need a Visa. According to Project Visa , US citizens traveling to Australia for less than 90 days must have a valid passport and a visa or approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter.

What is the currency in Australia?

Australia’s national currency is the Australian dollar (AUD). US dollars are not accepted at restaurants, attractions, or stores. Don’t be fooled by ‘0 commission’ money exchangers because the ‘service fee’ is high. Be sure to download a free currency calculator before you arrive.

Can I use credit cards and ATMs in Australia?

ATMs are available throughout Australia, you will need a 4-digit PIN. Avoid large fees by using your bank’s international partner in Australia and google its location before you travel. Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted in Australia, and Discover may be accepted. Save money on fees with a credit card that waives foreign transaction fees and make purchases in euro. It is always a good idea to carry some cash.

How much should I budget per day in Australia?

According to Budget Your Trip , the average daily cost of traveling in Australia is $136. Expect to pay $1,895 + airfare for a one-week trip for 2.

When is the best time to visit Australia?

Australia’s seasons are opposite the United States. The winter months are June, July, and August. The spring months are September, October, and November. The summer months are December, January, and February. January is the rainiest month. Autumn months are March, April, and May. The high season in Australia is between December and February (summer); the low season is between June and August (winter). The shoulder season is October, November, April, and May.

What type of transportation does Australia use?

Australia is spread out. It will take you over 9 hours to drive from Sydney to Melbourne. Air travel is the most convenient mode of transportation between regions in Australia. Australia has over 300 airports; domestic airlines include Jetstar, Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Tigerair. Local transportation systems include buses, trains, trams, and ferries.

What kind of adaptor do I need in Australia?

The plugs in Australia are type I. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. American electronic devices rated to 50 Hz and between 220 and 240 V will work with the correct US to Australia power adapter. I recommend buying a universal adapter with surge protection .

Is Australia a safe country for solo travelers?

According to Travel Safe Abroad , Australia is a very safe country for travelers. Not only is the overall risk low, but there is also a low risk of scams, pickpockets, and muggings. There is a medium risk a wild animal will jump in front of the car while driving on open roads and a high risk of natural disasters. Dial 000 in an emergency. Contact the US Embassy for non-urgent emergencies, such as a lost passport.

What food do I need to try in Australia?

Vegemite toast, Fairy Bread (white bread with sprinkles), Tim Tam (chocolate biscuit), meat pie, sausage rolls, Anzac biscuits, Pavlova (meringue cake with whipped cream and fruit), chicken parma, barbecue, fish and chips, Golden Gaytime (ice cream bar), Lamingtons (sponge cake filled with jam, covered in chocolate icing and dusted with coconut),

Tips for Traveling in Australia

Tipping in Australia is not a common practice.

The sun is strong in Australia, wear sunscreen.

Always bring a side dish when invited to a BBQ.

Smoking is VERY expensive, about $40 per pack expensive.

Cars drive on the left, always look right before crossing a street.

Swim between the flags to avoid swells and sharks.

The legal drinking age is 18.

You do not buy alcohol from the supermarket, you go to the liquor store or the drive-through bottle shop.

Check the Australia Office of Tourism website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

Top Things to See and Do in Australia

Tour the Sydney Opera House and climb the Harbour Bridge

Visit Melbourne’s Great Ocean Road and the Twelve Apostles

Watch the Phillip Island penguin parade

Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef

Walk the treetops at Daintree Rainforest

Spend time on the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast beaches

Sail around the Whitsunday Islands

Visit the Outback and Ayers Rock in Uluru (but don’t climb it)

Interesting Facts About Australia

Australia is the only continent covered by a single country

Australia is the only continent that doesn’t have an active volcano

Tasmania has the cleanest air in the world

There are 10,685 beaches in Australia

Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest eco-system in the world and it has its own post office box

The Australian Alps get more snow than the Swiss Alps

Uluru Stretches For 15 Miles Underground

The Great Ocean Road is the world’s largest war memorial

33% of Australians were born in another country

90% of Australians live on the coast

Australia exports its camels to the Middle East, and over 1 million roam the deserts

There are three times as many sheep than people living in Australia (63.8 million)

80% of the animals are unique to Australia

Australia has 21 of the world’s 25 most venomous snakes

Australian wallabies have broken into opium crops, got high, and ran around creating “crop circles”

Aussies drink 1.7 billion liters of beer per year (680 bottles of beer per adult)

Australians spend more money on gambling than any other nation

Australia was the second country to give women the vote in 1902

You are fined if you do not vote in Australia

Each week, more than 70 people overstay their Visa

Bookmark and Pin Australia Travel Guide

Booking Resources for Australia Travel

Australia travel guide.

Pick up an Australia Travel Guide from Amazon.com to browse on the plane.

Book Your Accommodation in Australia Now

Spending the night? Search Booking.com and VRBO in one place to find the perfect property!

Australia Attractions and Day Trips

The best attractions sell out! Don’t chance it, get your tickets now and relax when you arrive.

Travel Essentials

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When to book travel insurance

woman making a phone call while on her laptop

September 24, 2024

To ensure you have coverage against cancellations and other insured events on your next overseas trip, consider purchasing travel insurance sooner rather than later.

The Australian government travel site Smarttraveller found that one in four Australian travellers experienced an insurable event on their last overseas trip. That's 25 per cent of Australian holidaymakers who could potentially lose money due to cancellations, theft and other incidents if they didn’t have the appropriate travel insurance.

Purchasing travel insurance early can help provide coverage for certain situations, such as trip cancellations, and reduce the financial impact of potential complications. Understanding the requirements of your destination country, the coverage options for your traveling party, and specific needs like electronics and travel documents will help ensure you have the appropriate coverage throughout your journey.

RACV Members get 15 per cent off RACV Travel Insurance .

Timing your travel insurance purchase

When can i purchase travel insurance.

You have the flexibility to purchase travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, or even closer to your departure, depending on the type of coverage you need. Early purchase can help ensure that you have coverage from the moment you make your first payment towards your trip, for issues such as trip cancellations or interruptions that may occur before departure. It's important to read your travel insurance policy documents carefully to understand the different coverage options available and ensure they meet your specific needs.

That said, the more information you have about your trip, the easier it is to buy the coverage that best suits your needs. For example, are you going on an ocean cruise , hitting the ski slopes , or planning to drive overseas ? Knowing what you’ll be doing on holiday will help you choose suitable supplemental coverage.

red car driving near ocean in Italian town

Travel insurance is an important consideration of planning an overseas holiday. Image: Getty

Why consider purchasing travel insurance early?

Once you purchase the appropriate travel insurance, you may be covered for unexpected events in the lead-up to your holiday. For example, you may have to cancel your ski holiday due to a broken leg. Travel insurance may help reimburse non-refundable expenses.

Can I purchase travel insurance right before I leave?

You can purchase travel insurance up until you depart on your trip, although buying coverage when you make your bookings can offer additional benefits.

Policies bought closer to your departure date typically offer less coverage compared to those purchased well in advance. For instance, you might miss out on pre-existing condition coverage or have fewer options for trip cancellation and interruption benefits.

Moreover, you might face coverage gaps if an unforeseen event occurs shortly before your departure and you haven't bought insurance yet.

Consider purchasing travel insurance once you start making bookings. Image: Matt Harvey

What if my travel plans change?

Travel plans can change throughout the planning process. Perhaps you want to add on a few more days or visit a different country.

If flexibility is a priority, consider a travel insurance provider that allows you to purchase coverage first and make changes to your policy, such as adjusting destinations or travel dates. However, be sure to review the terms and conditions, as the ability to make changes may vary.

Which countries require travel insurance?

Some countries have specific requirements regarding travel insurance. It's crucial to check the entry requirements of your destination country well in advance to ensure compliance. Failure to provide the necessary documentation could result in being denied entry.

For example, to obtain a visa to Europe’s Schengen Area countries, travellers must have valid travel insurance that covers the entire Schengen area, with a minimum cover of EUR 30,000 for medical treatment and repatriation.

Even if you don’t legally require travel insurance to enter a country, make sure your travel insurance policy covers every country that you intend to visit.

You should also check each country’s safety status on Smarttraveller , as your travel insurance policy won’t cover you for destinations marked ‘Do Not Travel’ by the Australian government.

Travel plans can change throughout the planning process, so choose an insurer that allows you to update your policy until you depart. Image: Getty

Does travel insurance cover my entire travelling party?

Travel insurance typically covers all individuals listed on the policy, but this can vary depending on the plan you choose. This can be more cost-effective than buying individual policies for each person.

It’s important to review the specifics of the policy to ensure that all members of your travelling party are covered. In addition, ensure that each traveller's details are accurately listed on the policy to avoid potential issues with claims.

RACV Travel Insurance automatically has cover for dependent(s), * so you can take your little ones on holiday with you. Simply add your dependent(s) travelling with you to your Certificate of Insurance.

Consider travel insurance before you embark on your holiday

The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations . For copies, visit racv.com.au. Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) Ltd AR 001243563 is an authorised representative of the issuer and receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. RACV Travel Insurance issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548. Terms & conditions apply, refer to the PDS.

* Dependents such as children, grandchildren, stepchildren, and foster children aged 25 or under at no extra cost provided they are travelling with you the whole time, are financially dependent on their parents or grandparents, not working full time and do not require a medical assessment.

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These books about travelling Australia include witty stories, outrageous adventures, sombre mysteries and hilarious experiences that you couldn't plan if you tried! So, grab a drink, pull out the camp chair and have a read through these truly Aussie tales. Don't forget to check out these 20 great kids books for travelling Australia.
5 Best Australia Travel Guidebooks to Read
2) Fodor's Essential Australia (Full-color Travel Guide) If Australia is on your bucket list, reading a travel guide like this one is highly recommended. Australia is a vast country with the breathtaking outdoor beauty almost everywhere. It is a truly magical place to explore. " Fodor's Essential Australia " features the country's ...
Australia Travel Guide (for 2024)
Australia Travel Guide. This Australia Travel Guide aims to provide you with simple and stress-free travel planning information and inspiration for planning a trip to Australia. On this regularly updated page you will find links to useful posts on The Trusted Traveller, budget information, details on types of accommodation available ...
Travel Books
Get essential travel tips from the places you want to visit and even learn the language with BIG W's range of travel books and language dictionaries. Ad. 52 results. Sort. In/Out of stock. Price. Deals. Colour. Brand. Sold By. Rating. Author. ... SPLOSH Travel Board Australia Map Desk 27cm x 22cm. $33.96
Travel to Australia: Tips and Information 2024 Guide
Every year dozens of tourists drown on one of Australia's busy beaches because of strong waves and riptides. Wildlife attacks account for a handful more incidents. But in general, you should feel very safe when you travel to Australia. A sunset on the beach is the best ending for a day in Jervis Bay.
Best Sellers in General Australia Travel Guides
Best Sellers in General Australia Travel Guides. #1. Fodor's Essential Australia (Full-color Travel Guide) Fodor's Travel Guides. 437. Paperback. 66 offers from $8.95. #2. Australia Map (National Geographic Adventure Map, 3501)
Shop Online for Travel Guides
Ali Lemer, Anita Isalska,... Lonely Planet, MaSovaida... Winnie Tan, Ray Bartlett, Rob ... Lonely Planet, Stuart Butler, ... Ashley Parsons, Jean-Bernard... Andrea Schulte-Peevers, Kat... Discover the best books in Travel Guides with recommendations from Australia's largest bookstore. The perfect book is waiting for you at Dymocks online.
Complete Australia Travel Guide, What You Need to Know
Explore our ultimate Australia travel guide! Discover must-see destinations like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Cairnes along with insider tips on visas, budget planning, and top attractions like the Great Barrier Reef and Sydney Opera House. Perfect for planning your dream vacation Down Under!
AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND TRAVEL GUIDE 2023 (Tour with Bartlett)
The Australia and New Zealand Travel Guide 2023 is your ticket to exploring the land Down Under and the stunning islands of New Zealand. Get your hands on the Australia and New Zealand Travel Guide 2023 today and start planning your dream trip to these breathtaking countries. Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime!
When to book travel insurance
The Australian government travel site Smarttraveller found that one in four Australian travellers experienced an insurable event on their last overseas trip. That's 25 per cent of Australian holidaymakers who could potentially lose money due to cancellations, theft and other incidents if they didn't have the appropriate travel insurance.

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Books - Travel

Australia's Best 100 Walks Book

Australia's Best 100 Bike Rides

Discovering Natural Tasmania

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7 Best Travel Books About Australia

Lonely Planet Best Of Australia – Lonely Planet

Down Under – Bill Bryson

Australian Wanderlust: Discovering Authentic Australia – Emily L. Thorndike

Travel: The Long Hitch Home – Maslin Jamie

Terra Nullius: A Journey Through No One’s Land – Sven Lindqvist

Australian Wildlife: A Visitor’s Guide – Stella Martin

The Monocle Travel Guide to Sydney (The Monocle Travel Guide Series) – Tyler Brule

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17 Books about Australia to Read Before Visiting Down Under

Books to read before you visit Australia

In a Sunburned Country

The United States of Australia: An Aussie Bloke Explains Australia to Americans

A Traveller's History of Australia

Travelers' Tales Australia: True Stories

Australia's Most Unbelievable True Stories

Australia - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

Australia's Dangerous Animals: A Folding Pocket Guide to Potentially Harmful Species

Fodor's Essential Australia

National Geographic Australia

Fiction books to read before you visit Australia

The Shepherd's Hut: A Novel

Picnic at Hanging Rock (Penguin Classics)

The Spare Room

Carpentaria: A Novel

The Kookaburra Creek Café

Daughter of Australia

The Lost Man

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Enjoyed our selection of books about Australia? More to read below!

Australia Travel Guide

INTRODUCTION

Q&A WITH SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES OF AUSTRALIA

Q&A WITH SAM BLUNSDON, HEAD OF COMMERCIAL AND TOURISM PRODUCTION, CONNECTIONS LUXURY

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS OF AUSTRALIA

LUXURY LODGES OF AUSTRALIA

DISCOVER ABORIGINAL EXPERIENCES

GREAT WALKS OF AUSTRALIA

ULTIMATE WINERY EXPERIENCES

GREAT GOLF COURSES OF AUSTRALIA

GETTING THERE AND AROUND

VIEW THE AUSTRALIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Australia : Tourism Insights

Connections Luxury Australia : Tourism Insights

Australia : Outlook Recommends

Aboriginal Experiences of Australia in Focus

Australia : Landmark Attractions

Getting To and Around Australia