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Planning to travel to Australia? Here are a few important dos and don’ts to consider when travelling down under that will help to make your visit a success.
Don’t visit for less than three weeks
There’s so much to see and do in Australia that you really need a minimum of three weeks to experience it all. Having this amount of time to travel also allows you to get used to the time difference – you may spend the first couple days jetlagged.
Do save up some spending money
Australia isn’t cheap. Food and drink are one of the biggest costs that catch out to many travelers. Try to save up a decent amount of spending money so that you’re not financially struggling when you get there. Eating at food courts and avoiding trendy areas will save you money. This guide at AzureRestaurant offers some more tips.
Don’t try to bring food into the country
Australia’s border control regulations are very strict when it comes to bringing in food – they don’t allow a lot of different types of food due to the threat of disease that it may bring. If you want to bring food with you, make sure to read up on guidelines before you pack.
Do buy an adaptor plug
The sockets in Australia are different from much of the rest of the world. You’ll need an adaptor plug, which you’re best shopping for online before you depart (they aren’t always easy to find in Australian shops unless you’re staying somewhere very touristy).
Don’t feel you have to tip
Wages in Australia are some of the best in the world. As a result, tipping is generally only reserved for exceptional service, so don’t feel you have to tip every waiter and bartender that serves you.
Do pack for the weather
It’s important to remember that the seasons are flipped in the southern hemisphere, so if you’re travelling in winter it will be summer in Australia. Summer heats can be scorching, particularly in the north, so bring sunscreen and shades. Australia also gets its fair share of rain, so don’t forget to bring waterproof clothing too.
Don’t explore the outback alone
Whilst you can hire a car and go on your own adventure into the outback, it isn’t advised. If you break down in the outback it can be bad news as you could be miles from civilisation. It’s best to take guided tours using sites such as OutbackFree. Such tours can allow you to see the sights in safe hands.
Do get a Sydney MyMulti Pass
When saving money on transport in Sydney, your best option is to get a MyMulti Pass. This can be used on all the trains, buses and ferries and even includes transport up to the blue mountains. It’s the cheapest and most convenient way to get around if you’re a tourist.
Don’t swim beyond the flags
When visiting the beaches, pay attention to the flags. Australia’s waters do contain some dangerous sealife – the flags mark out safe zones that will keep you out of harm.
Bonnie is always on the road with some amazing adventures ahead. Her favorite continent is South America and she’s passionate about culture-focused traveling and ethical and sustainable tourism. During her time in university as a research assistant for a sociology professor, she realized she can’t fully understand cultures from a safe distance. She quit her job to become a full-time “voluntourist,” which brings her to places where she can immerse in local communities and support their causes. On top of writing, one of Bonnie’s priorities is offering women advice on how to stay safe while solo backpacking.