9 budget-friendly tips for travelers in Australia

With its Instagram-worthy landscapes, lively cities, and distinctive wildlife, Australia is a dream destination for many.

However, while Australia is celebrated for its relaxed vibe, it’s not typically regarded as an affordable destination. Even locals often struggle with the high cost of living. Ultimately, how expensive Australia feels can vary based on the exchange rate between the Australian dollar and your home currency.

Whether you’re in Sydney, Perth, or exploring the outback, expenses for food, activities, and especially accommodation can quickly accumulate. Nonetheless, with careful planning, it’s feasible to manage costs effectively during your trip to Australia. Here are our top money-saving strategies along with a guide to daily expenses.

A guide to daily expenses

• Shared dormitory in a hostel: $40–80

• Standard room for two: $180–250

• Single fare on public transport: $2–4

• Coffee: $5

• Bacon and egg roll for breakfast: $8–12

• Meat pie: $6

• Dinner per person, not including drinks: $30–60

• Beer at a pub: $5–9

• Cocktails: $15–25

Average total daily cost: $200–300

1. Schedule your trip during the off-peak season

Australia's peak tourist season occurs during the summer months of the southern hemisphere, making December to February the priciest time to visit the country.

Instead, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), when you’re more likely to find great deals on accommodation, domestic flights, and tours. Since most accommodations—especially in urban areas—utilize dynamic pricing, these months offer better chances to secure reasonably priced rooms, as well as affordable seats on internal flights and tour buses.

This is also a fantastic time to explore unique festivals that align with the seasons, such as Tasmania’s winter solstice event, Dark Mofo, or cherry-picking in Victoria’s Yarra Valley.

2. Sydney isn’t always the most affordable city to fly into

While Sydney is seen as the gateway to Australia, it’s not the only international airport in the country. You might save a significant amount by flying directly into Melbourne, Brisbane, or Perth instead.

You’ll find that domestic flights within Australia are surprisingly affordable, though it’s important to consider their environmental impact. One-way fares between Melbourne and Sydney can be as low as $59. Expect a slightly higher level of service and more amenities when flying with Australia’s budget airlines, such as Bonza and Jetstar, compared to low-cost carriers elsewhere.

Another way to save is by looking into flight packages. Qantas, the largest airline in Australia, frequently offers travel deals that bundle airfare, hotels, and car rentals. You can use its multi-city trip planner to manage your domestic travel budget within Australia.

3. The most economical dining options are markets and pubs

While Australia’s major cities boast excellent restaurants, they can be expensive and may not suit the budget traveler. Instead, head to the vibrant markets found in laneways, parks, and historic locations. Enjoy street food such as Thai and Greek dishes at Melbourne's Queen Victoria Market or visit Sydney's Chinatown night markets on Fridays, where meals start at just $5.

If you’re in rural areas, weekends bring delightful farmers' markets that offer everything from freshly baked goods and picnic supplies to unique souvenirs to take home.

For budget-friendly meals, keep an eye out for food trucks—they're ubiquitous. In Darwin, the Parap Village Markets dish up some of the finest laksa (Malaysian noodle soup) in Australia, while Sydney and Brisbane offer a diverse range of options from Texas BBQ to Filipino cuisine.

If you're craving a classic Aussie meal, don’t miss the local pubs. Most establishments will feature a daily special, such as a $12 chicken parmigiana or a $10 burger with chips. Remember, prices for main dishes typically include tax, and tipping is not customary; the price on the menu is what you’ll actually pay.

4. Australia’s top attractions come at no cost

In Australia, the true gems are found outdoors, from stunning beaches to scenic coastal walks and mountain trails. With over 600 national parks, most of which are free to explore, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure, although a few do charge an entrance fee.

The country also boasts numerous free museums and attractions, such as the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Gallery of Victoria. While some may ask for donations or have specific hours for free entry, details are usually available on their websites.

Another great option is to participate in a free walking tour that showcases local history and iconic sites. In Brisbane, volunteers guide visitors for two to three hours through the city, while the Sydney Sights tour explores neighborhoods and famous landmarks like the Opera House. In Melbourne, a Culture Capital tour navigates the city’s intricate laneways and arcades. Although these tours are labeled as 'free,' they often operate on a tips basis or 'pay what you feel it's worth,' so keep in mind that guides generally expect a gratuity.

If you're struggling to find a tour online, consider stopping by an information center or consulting with the booking desk or concierge at your accommodation. Just remember to reserve your spot in advance for these tours.

For popular attractions, think about purchasing a multi-attraction combo pass. For instance, the Sightseeing Pass Australia provides discounts for attractions in South Australia and Western Australia, while the Sea Life Sydney Pass can save you up to 50% on nearby sights. Additionally, look for deals on platforms like Klook, Red Balloon, and Adrenaline to maximize your sightseeing experiences.

5. Rent an RV or campervan for budget-friendly travel and accommodation

Whether you're embarking on a road trip through the outback or along the coast, experiencing Australia by car is often the best—and sometimes only—way to go. Opt for a campervan instead of a standard car rental to maximize your adventure. These vehicles serve as affordable lodging on wheels, with nightly rates at caravan parks averaging around $30 for unpowered sites and starting from $40 for powered ones (you might even find better deals on private properties via Hipcamp).

Free campsites are scattered throughout the country, providing an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. You can locate these spots using apps like WikiCamps Australia and CamperMate. Just be prepared for limited facilities; some locations may lack toilets or access to clean water.

Rental prices for vans begin at about $40 per day, depending on the vehicle model. Camplify (similar to Airbnb but for motorhomes and vans) features a section for rentals under $100, making it easy to find an affordable home on wheels. Jucy Rentals is another option, ideal for budget-conscious road trippers.

While you'll save on lodging, keep in mind that fuel prices in Australia can be high. Costs vary, but by the end of 2023, a liter of gasoline ranged from $1.80 to $2.10.

6. Opt for a farm stay for a unique experience

Farm stays are becoming increasingly popular among travelers in Australia. Whether you're spending a month or just a weekend, you can rent a tiny house on a cattle station or stay in a stylishly converted shearing shed. These options can be more budget-friendly than hotels and typically include breakfast. Best of all, they provide free entertainment for the whole family, as many farms allow guests to interact with horses and feed cows.

To discover these stays, check out Hipcamp or use the 'farm stay' filter on Booking.com. While some luxury glamping experiences can exceed $600, many options are available for under $250 per night for a whole cottage. Tourist-friendly farm stays like Tweed's Hosanna Farmstay also offer campsites starting at $21 per night and huts from $125.

7. Consider working or volunteering during your travels

Obtaining a working holiday visa in Australia is a smart way to immerse yourself in the culture and stunning landscapes while earning some extra cash. This visa is available for travelers aged 18 to 30 (or up to 35 in certain cases) from eligible countries, allowing you to work while enjoying your trip.

Another great option for travelers is housesitting. This allows you to stay for free in wonderful homes across Australia in exchange for caring for the property and possibly pets while the owners are away. Websites like Aussie House Sitters and Mindahome.com list available housesitting opportunities. There's a small membership fee, but it can lead to significant savings on accommodation.

8. Bring your own wine when dining out

Due to high taxes on alcohol, Australia has pricey drinks, with house wine costing around $13 a glass. To ease the financial burden, consider taking advantage of happy hour specials where cocktails are about $15 and tap beers start at $5. Many venues also offer food deals like $10 nachos and $5 fries.

For an affordable dinner with drinks, many restaurants—especially Chinese, Italian, and Mediterranean—allow you to bring your own wine. You'll usually see this advertised in the restaurant's window, along with a small corkage fee of about $3. Just a heads up: showing up with a 'goon' bag (a four-liter bag of wine for around $12) may attract some curious glances.

9. Consider joining a group tour

One common mistake travelers make is underestimating the immense size of Australia. With only 25 million residents, its land area is comparable to that of the United States. Travel times, especially to remote areas, are not only crucial for your itinerary but can also impact your budget.

This is where group tours come in handy, as they often include accommodations, meals, transport, and activities. These tours can be especially cost-effective for visits to places like Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and K’gari (Fraser Island). Tour operators generally negotiate lower rates for groups, saving you both time in planning and money overall.