Australia travel tips
Travelling in Australia is a great experience with well-worn routes and many options for hassle-free travel. Australians are generally laid-back and welcoming, but be particularly careful with personal possessions and travel documents in popular tourist destinations such as Cairns and the Gold Coast.
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Australia is a year round destination enjoying its best weather before and after Christmas. February is generally the hottest month and you should drink plenty of water, wear a hat and use plenty of sun block.
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When swimming in northern coastal areas, especially north of Cairns, beware of the deadly box jellyfish. Man-eating sharks generally only inhabit the cooler southern waters. Saltwater crocodiles are dangerous and can also be found in fresh water in the Outback – heed warnings before swimming or seek local advice.
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Travelling around Australia is cheaper than the US and Europe and particularly attractive to the budget traveller. Budget airlines are your best bet for long distance travel, while travelling by bus is the cheapest alternative, and train travel is slow and expensive.
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Many travellers prefer to buy a car if staying for a long time. This is the best way to see the country. Take regular breaks on long journeys and beware of driving into the Outback in the rainy season. Always carry food, water and extra fuel.
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Notify a friend before embarking on a long journey through the Outback and state your intended arrival date so they know to notify the authorities if you don’t contact them.
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Be wary of picking up hitchhikers and leaving the car parked on city streets at night.
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Mosquitoes are in their masses in the Outback and are adept at biting through clothing. Certain areas of the Australian Outback are prone to Ross River fever and Japanese encephalitis, and using a good repellent is essential.
Useful travel tips resources
Footprint Guides - Australia
Probably the best and most useful of travel guide publishers.
http://www.footprintguides.com/
Walkabout
The comprehensive traveller's guide to 1,500 Australian cities and towns.
http://www.walkabout.com.au/
Austtravel
An excellent resource providing assistance for anyone planning to travel to Australia.
http://www.austtravel.com.au/
More topics on this site…
Australia travel information
Australia health and safety
Australia maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: Every nationality except New Zealanders needs visas
Season: Year round
Money: Australian Dollar – ATMs widely available
Language: English
Emergency #: 000