So you’re heading to Australia? The land of Kangaroos, stunning beaches and a ton of adventures, this isn’t an average destination. It is a paradise of endless emotions, heritage, cultural hubs and mouth-watering food, among other uncountable stuff. A country with unique climate and strict regulations, if you’re a first time visitor here, then please avoid some of the common mistakes made by travelers, especially related to planning and budgeting. Did you know, that 65% of the first-time visitors to Australia regretted about their itinerary planning? Don’t worry, we’ll make sure you aren’t one of them.
PLANNING MISTAKES
1. Being too Spontaneous with the Trip: Australia is Huge & Diverse!
Australia is the 6th largest country in the world with a great diversity of cultures and landscapes. It has eight states, with a lot to explore in each. The best way to enjoy Australia is by organizing your days and activities beforehand. Especially if you’re here for a short period of time, say less than a month, then don’t rush into places impulsively. Here are some of the must visit places in Australia which you can add to your bucket list:
- The Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea
- The Winter Street Market, Queen Victoria
- Sydney
- Uluru
- Melbourne
- Perth & Margaret River
- Kangaroo Island
- Kakadu
- Hobart
- Gold Coast
2. Underestimating the Vast Distances between Australian Cities
One of the biggest surprises a traveler gets coming to Australia is how big the country is. Australia is actually a continent with each state being miles apart. For instance, the distance between Melbourne and Sydney is around 800 kilometers, which is a 9-10 hour drive or a 1.5 hour flight.
Correct estimation of distance between the Australian cities can actually prevent your budget from facing unexpected blows. It will also prepare you for long distance travel beforehand so that you can pack your stuff accordingly without any hassle.
3. Failing to Understand Australian Currency and Payment Systems
- The national currency of Australia is Australian Dollars (AUD), available in denominations $5,$10, $20, $50 and $100 notes. Meanwhile coins come in 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents.
- AUD can be exchanged in banks, hotels and international airports and can be obtained by ATMs using a valid debit card. ATMs are widespread in the nation but are limited in remote towns and outback.
- Australian shops, restaurants and hotels have EFTPOS installed, which is an indigenous electronic payment system, allowing you to pay through debit/credit cards.
- Your each transaction maybe subjected to fees, particularly for international accounts which you must confirm with your bank.
- Before you exchange your INR for AUD, make sure you do some research about the interest rates on exchange. Explore multiple banks and Forex services to find best deals.
4. Overlooking Seasonal Variations and Public Holiday Impacts
Like any other country, Australia is vibrant and energetic during the peak seasons, contrary to the low season which is usually not an ideal time to enjoy Australia. In this section, we’ll discuss about the some of the best seasons to travel, along with comprehensive information about the public holidays:
Peak Season (Dec-Feb)
- During the peak season, Sun in Australia shines bright, temperatures shoot up and beaches look stunning (except in the northern lands which are wet).
- This season is expensive compared to rest of the year as the demand for flights, accommodations and transportation increase.
Low Season (Jun-Aug)
- Winters in Australia are chilling and cloudy with a plenty of sunshine that bring some comfort. When the temperatures decrease in Australia, you can enjoy some wine and explore world-class vineyards.
- This is the peak season in Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef region, as in those areas, sunshine is abundant and temperature is moderate.
- Best thing about this season is that there are fewer tourists, cheaper airfares and reasonable accommodation rates.
Spring and Autumn Seasons (Mar-May and Sept-Nov)
- Spring and autumn are the underrated traveling times in Australia, with trees blooming, wildflowers decorating the gardens and weather warming up indicating the arrival of summer.
- The demand for flights and accommodations is lower than the peak season, making your trip more affordable.
Public Holidays
- Make sure you are aware of major public holidays such as Australia Day, Good Friday, Easter, Anzac Day, and Christmas, among others. During this time, banks, offices and certain shops are closed. It is advised to book interstate flights, tours and accommodations well in advance.
BUDGET MISTAKES
5. Blowing Your Budget on Overpriced Accommodation
Accommodation in Australia is not cheap. Finding a perfect accommodation that fits in your budget can seem to be daunting at first, but with right measure and tips, you can avoid blowing your budget with expensive hotels.
- Choose an accommodation which fits your budget
- Budget hostels typically range from $30-50 per night
- Mid-range hotels start at $120 per night in major cities
- University dorm rentals (during holidays) cost around $60-$100 per night
- Farm stays & eco lodges cost somewhere around $100-$250.
- Luxury accommodations generally begin at $250+ per night
- Airbnb private rooms average $70-100 while entire homes range from $120-200 depending on location
- Choose the correct location
While booking an accommodation in Australia, location is the key. You’ll have to make sure that the hotel you’re booking should have an easy access to public transport.
- Consider different types of accommodations
It is important to consider different types of accommodations in Australia from hotels and resorts, to homestays and hostels. Hotel and resorts come under the expensive category while hostels and homestays offer budget-friendly shelters.
- Explore your location
Explore eateries, restaurants and entertainment hubs near your accommodation. This might give you an excuse for a little adventure.
- Ask for recommendations
Feel free to use the experience of your friends, family and colleagues. Their suggestions can help you lock in your budget-friendly, quality stays.
- Read online reviews
Read stories and raw & honest opinions from fellow travelers on trusted websites, such as Tripadvisor, Mann Travel, and Expedia, among others.
- Check-out online platforms for booking
- Airbnb
- Booking.com
- Stayz (by Vrbo)
- Expedia
- Facebook Marketplace
- Gumtree.com.au
- Airtasker
6. Frequent Consumption of Outside Meals
Dining out in Australia is pretty addictive and expensive. Consuming take-away food every day of your stay might not be an economical decision. Home-made meals on the other hand can be a healthier, delicious and much affordable. Hence, it is advised to go for self-cooked food such as pasta, spaghetti Bolognese, burger, and sandwich, among others. You can also look out for grocery store chains, offering ready-to-eat or ready-to-cook meals, such as Woolworths, ALDI, Coles and IGA.
7. Relying on International Roaming Instead of Local Solutions
International roaming for Indians is not going to be cheap. Hence, it is wiser to buy a local SIM card or special tourist SIM packages from Australia’s three main providers, Vodafone, Optus and Telstra. They will provide you different plans to cater all your connectivity requirements with varying combos of data, minutes and texts. Here is a list of the costs of SIM packages designed specifically for tourists:
- Telstra tourist SIM packages: starting from $30 for 28 days with 10GB data
- Optus visitor plan package: ranging from $20-40 with varying data allowances
- Vodafone’s tourist SIMs: costing $25-35 for 30 days with generous data inclusions
Free Wifi is easily available across hotels, cafes, restaurants and several other local authority venues including public libraries, Visitor information centers, among others.
PACKING MISTAKES
8. Under packing
- Versatile Clothes
The climate zones and weather conditions change abruptly across Australia, even during peak summers. Hence, it is advised to pack your clothes with great versatility. Pack the appropriate garments which can be used in different purposes and conditions, for example bush walking, dining out, swimming, etc.
In the summertime of Northern Tropical Australia, it rains a lot. The hot and sticky weather conditions would require comfortable casual clothes.
- Beauty and Cosmetics
Apart from the basic cosmetics, beauty and personal grooming items such as shampoo, face wash, body wash, conditioner, etc., there are some other products which will shield you against the harsh and unpredictable weather of Australia: - Sunscreen (SP 50/SP 110)
- Lip balm
- Protective summer oil
- Cotton wipes
- Smoothing and relaxing eye-patches
- Useful but Less Common Items
Your packing isn’t complete without stuffing some of the crucial electronic products and accessories. Neglected yet useful, these products enhance your convenience at various points of your journey. Your personal comfort is significantly improved if you include these products in your bag pack: - Universal adaptor
- Waterproof camera case
- Filtered water bottle
- Earphones
- Packing cubes
CULTURAL MISTAKES
9. Neglecting the Cultural Etiquettes
Australians are fun, easy going and relaxed, but they are extremely particular with etiquettes. Especially if you’re an international traveler, it is crucial to understand and practice the local customs and manners. These simple unsaid etiquettes can make your journey more blissful and enjoyable:
- Drive on the left
- Respect personal space
- Hold the doors, give the way politely
- Wait for your turn on public transport (don’t rush)
- Keep your voice low in social gatherings
- Call someone with first names, not the titles
- Respect nature and public settings
10. Tipping is not Mandatory
Unlike most of the countries, tipping is not mandatory in Australia. People value straightforward interactions so a nice simple gesture or verbal gratitude will seem genuine. Especially in hotels, restaurants, bars and pubs, the wages are decent; hence tipping has failed to be a norm.
11. Neglecting Biosecurity Laws
Australian government is stringent when it comes to minimizing the risk of pests and diseases entering the country. All travelers must declare food, plants and certain animal products they are carrying on their Incoming Passenger Card (IPC). Biosecurity Officers scan your bags using detector dogs, x-ray machines and baggage inspection equipment.
12. Approaching Wildlife without Proper Precautions
National parks and wildlife sanctuaries are the cornerstones of Australia’s great natural landscape. The country has an impressive but potentially dangerous wildlife. Before experiencing it, you need to be aware of the basic precautions before connecting with the diverse wildlife:
- Avoid touching animals
- Watchout for snakes, reptiles and insects
- Keep your food out of sight
- Maintain distance at all times
Final Thoughts
Visiting Australia is indeed a one-of-a-kind experience. From Gold Coast to Sydney, Brisbane to Perth, this country is almost too perfect to be true. The vastness of Australia is such that the people, especially Indian tourists tend to miss out on things. In this blog we have discussed how minor adjustments related to budgeting, planning and packing can infuse more enjoyment and convenience in your journey. We tried to cover the essentials that make a difference. The blog also dives into crucial topics like staying safe around wildlife, respecting Australia’s strict biosecurity laws, understanding local cultural etiquette, and avoiding common travel mistakes. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, these insights aim to make your Australian adventure smoother, safer, and more fulfilling.
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Check more Blogs – Planning Your Dream Australian Holiday: Tips for Indian Residents
