To make your experience unforgettable
Backpacking through Australia!? That can't be that hard... And it's not! But to make sure you get the most out of your time Down Under and still remember your time here in 40 years, I want to give you 10 tips today that, in hindsight, helped/would have helped me a lot.
Let’s go!
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Tip 1: Don't be discouraged by administrative to-dos
Before every trip, there's something to organize. Booking flights, getting a visa, taking out insurance, and so on. For Australia, however, things like getting an Australian mobile number, applying for a tax file number, opening a bank account, and setting up Super (retirement account) also need to be done. Yes, there are a few things, but if you make a small list and tick them off one by one, it won't seem like so much. (For more info, check out Blog X1 ;)).
Tip 2: Be open to new things
Why are you backpacking to Australia? Ask yourself that question. I would strongly assume that you don't want to backpack through Australia to do the exact same job as at home, hang out with the same people, or pursue the same hobbies. You're already taking the brave step and coming to Australia, so I'm sure you can try out other new things too. Apply for the most bizarre jobs, try your hand at surfing or Australian Football, and most importantly, be open to new acquaintances with locals or other backpackers. The people you meet on your journey will sometimes stay in your memory forever. You might suddenly find friends for life, the love of your life, or simply buddies for a few days in the same hostel.
Quick example: 6 years ago, I bought a van from a British couple (John and Becky). We got along so well that we've stayed in regular contact ever since. They live on the Gold Coast and I now live on the Sunshine Coast. We see each other every few months, write regularly, and have built a very strong connection.
Another example is the meeting of my girlfriend Georgie and me. We literally met here on the Sunshine Coast on the only party strip, and suddenly a brief small talk turned into a beautiful relationship that I never could have dreamed of.
What I mean is, you never know who you might meet around the next corner, in the next hostel, or at the next bar.
Tip 3: Don't plan your entire trip in advance
Planning is all well and good, but I strongly believe that the best moments happen spontaneously and unplanned. Of course, decide where you want to start your trip, but don't stress too much about knowing where to go next. Especially in hostels, you'll meet so many like-minded people with whom you can always exchange ideas and get inspiration.
Tip 4: You don't need millions in your account to have a good time
If it's still current, the Australian "Department of Home Affairs" requires proof of funds of $5,000 in your account. Currently, that's not even €3,000, and I would say that's an amount anyone can save up sooner or later. And since the whole thing is called "Working Holiday," you can continue to save here in Australia and, with a not insignificant probability, earn more money than in Europe.
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Tip 5: Buy a car or a van early
Australia is huge, and many of the most beautiful places are difficult to reach without your own vehicle. A simple station wagon or van is often completely sufficient. Look for roadworthiness, rego (registration), and a clean purchase contract.
Disclaimer: A car makes traveling easier, but it's not a MUST! If for some reason you don't want to drive, there's always the "Greyhound Bus" option (limited number of stops, but still).
Tip 6: Apps that make travel easier
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Wikicamps: shows you (free) camping spots, sights, hostels, public showers and water dispensers, and much more. It's paid, but those few euros are so worth it for vanlifers.
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Hostelworld: practical for booking your next hostel
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Petrol Spy: practical for finding the cheapest petrol station in your area
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Waze: the same as Google Maps, but much more accurate with speed controls, construction sites, etc.
Tip 7: Respect nature, the climate, and the locals
Heat, distances, and animals are not to be underestimated. Always carry enough water, check the weather, don't feel the need to prove how "tough" you are – Australia doesn't forgive carelessness. And whether at work, shopping, or surfing: respect the locals and behave as if Australia were your beloved home country.
Tip 8: Save smart when shopping
Large supermarkets are expensive. Use Aldi, weekly markets, reduced goods in the evenings, or local butchers and greengrocers. Cooking for yourself saves an enormous amount of money.
Tip 9: Don't just do the "Instagram spots"
Bondi, Byron Bay, and the Great Ocean Road are beautiful – but the magic of Australia often lies off the beaten tourist path: Outback towns, small surf spots, national parks, road trips without a destination.
Tip 10: Anyone can have a breakdown
Missed flight, missed bus, broken car, lost phone... All of these can happen, and unfortunately, they are part of long-term travel. But don't let them discourage you, and try to see them as learning experiences. Health is the most important thing, and everything material can be replaced sooner or later.
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And last but not least: Enjoy every moment!!! Everything is fleeting, and beautiful times often pass far too quickly.
Safe Travels!
Cheers
Jesko
