Planning your first trip to Australia? Whether you’re flying in for an adventure, a family vacation, or a solo exploration, the Land Down Under has a lot to offer – from iconic cities and beaches to wildlife and friendly locals. But before you go, there are a few important things you need to know.
🌐 What to Do Before Entering Australia
- Get a Tourist Visa: Most travelers will need an eVisitor (subclass 651) or a Visitor visa (subclass 600). Apply online and make sure it’s approved before your flight.
- Book Your Return Ticket: Immigration officers may ask for proof that you plan to leave.
- Prepare Travel Insurance: Medical costs in Australia can be high. Insurance is strongly recommended.
- Have Proof of Funds: While you don’t need exactly AUD $5,000, having enough funds to cover your stay is important. A common guide is AUD $1,000 per week.
🤑 What You Cannot Bring into Australia
Australia has strict biosecurity laws. Do not bring:
- Fresh food, seeds, meat, dairy, or honey.
- Wooden items without treatment.
- Medicines without a prescription or proper documentation.
Declare anything questionable on your incoming passenger card to avoid fines.
🏡 Best Areas to Visit for First-Timers
- Sydney: Great mix of city and beach. Visit the Opera House, Bondi Beach, and Darling Harbour.
- Melbourne: Perfect for culture lovers – street art, cafes, and coastal drives.
- Cairns: Ideal for Great Barrier Reef trips and tropical vibes.
🌞 How Much Cash Should You Carry?
Australia is very card-friendly. But for emergencies and small purchases:
- Carry around AUD $100–$200 in cash.
- Don’t carry more than AUD $10,000 without declaring it at customs.
💼 How Much Does 2 Weeks in Australia Cost?
For a couple traveling mid-range:
- Accommodation: AUD $2,000–$2,800
- Meals & Drinks: AUD $800–$1,000
- Transport & Activities: AUD $700–$1,000
- Total Estimate: AUD $3,500–$4,800
✈️ Flights and Transport Tips
- International Flights: Depending on origin, round-trip flights to Australia range from AUD $1,200–$2,000+.
- Domestic Transport: Buses and trains are affordable. Sydney to Melbourne by train: AUD $65–$120.
🚗 What to Prepare for Australia
- Light clothes, walking shoes, sunscreen.
- A universal power adapter.
- Download the Service NSW/Victoria apps for transport and local info.
🌧️ Best Time to Visit Australia
- March to May (autumn) and September to November (spring) offer the best weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds.
🌟 Final Travel Tips
- Stay connected with an Aussie SIM card.
- Tipping isn’t mandatory, but appreciated.
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Don’t forget to drive on the left side!