Dreaming of Australia but worried about the cost? Think again! While Australia can be perceived as an expensive destination, with a few smart strategies, you can experience its incredible beauty and vibrant cities without completely emptying your wallet. We’re here to help you find the best deals on flights and hotels, but these tips will save you even more once you’re on the ground.
1. Master Public Transport (and Your Own Two Feet!)
Australia’s major cities have excellent public transport systems. Get an Opal card in Sydney, a Myki in Melbourne, or a Translink Go Card in Brisbane. These tap-on, tap-off cards are much cheaper than taxis or ride-shares, especially during peak hours.
- Walk everywhere: Many of Australia’s best sights are free and best explored on foot. Think Sydney’s coastal walks, Melbourne’s laneway art, or Perth’s King’s Park.
2. Embrace Free Activities & Nature
Some of Australia’s most spectacular attractions are completely free!
- Beaches: Spend days at iconic beaches like Bondi, Cottesloe, or the Gold Coast. Just bring your towel and sunscreen.
- National Parks: While some have entry fees, many parks offer incredible hiking, swimming, and sightseeing at little to no cost (e.g., stunning lookouts in the Blue Mountains).
- City Parks & Gardens: Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney’s Hyde Park, and Perth’s Kings Park offer beautiful, free escapes.
3. Self-Cater and Picnic Power
Eating out for every meal can add up quickly.
- Supermarket Savvy: Hit up local supermarkets (Coles, Woolworths, ALDI) for groceries. Stock your hotel fridge with breakfast items, snacks, and ingredients for sandwiches or simple dinners.
- Picnics with a View: Australia has countless beautiful spots for a picnic. Grab some bread, cheese, local fruit, and maybe some iconic Australian dips like beetroot or hummus, and enjoy a meal with a million-dollar view (for pennies!).
4. Free City Tours & Local Guides
Many cities offer free walking tours led by passionate locals. These are a fantastic way to get an overview of the city, learn some history, and get insider tips without spending a cent (though a tip for your guide is always appreciated).
- Check tourist information centres: They often have details on these tours.
5. Travel in Shoulder Season
Our best flight and hotel deals often appear during the “shoulder seasons” (Spring: September-November, Autumn: March-May). These times offer:
- Lower prices: Fewer crowds mean better deals on accommodation and potentially tours.
- Milder weather: You avoid the scorching summer heat and the chilly winter, making it perfect for exploring.
6. Look for Lunch Specials & Happy Hours
If you want to experience Australia’s vibrant dining scene, aim for lunch specials or happy hour deals. Many pubs and restaurants offer discounted meals during lunchtimes, and happy hour can significantly cut down on drink costs.
7. Utilise Our Deals!
Of course, the biggest savings start right here! We constantly update our site with the best flight deals to Australia and competitive hotel rates across all major cities and tourist hotspots. Pairing these with the tips above will ensure your Australian adventure is unforgettable, not unaffordable.
