Australia isn’t exactly known as a cheap country to explore, but that doesn’t mean you can’t travel affordably. With a bit of planning, creativity, and the right mindset, it’s possible to enjoy incredible landscapes and memorable experiences without spending a fortune. Over the years, I’ve learnt a few simple ways to make the most of local adventures – and still feel like I’m on holiday.
How to travel Australia on a budget
If you love nature and the outdoors, Australia is one of the best countries in the world for affordable travel. You don’t need luxury resorts or city stays to have a memorable trip – some of the best adventures are free.
Go camping (but not in holiday parks!)
Camping is the cheapest and most flexible way to see Australia. Take a tent, inflatable mattress, sleeping bag, esky (cooler), gas burner and a small car – that’s all you need for a great road trip. You’ll also come across plenty of free gas barbecues as you explore.
You don’t have to buy everything new. Check Facebook Marketplace or ask friends and colleagues if they can lend you camping gear.
To find low-cost or free camping spots, look at national park campgrounds or use apps like WikiCamps or CamperMate. If you can sleep in your car, you’ll have even more options. We’ve also found some great-value stays on Hipcamp.
If you’re new to Hipcamp, here’s a coupon code that will give you (and me!) $10 credit for your first stay: ELOISET668EFD.
If you’re planning to travel in winter, keeping warm can be tricky, so check if national parks have cabins – they can be surprisingly affordable.
Keep distances short
Fuel is one of the biggest travel costs, so staying within a few hours of home is one of the easiest ways to cut expenses. Micro-adventures can be just as fun, easier to plan, and much cheaper. I also like choosing regions that offer a lot within a small area – so I can explore without spending half the trip behind the wheel.
Fuel prices can also vary a lot. It’s worth checking Google Maps or an app like PetrolSpy before filling up – we’ve found a few times a 60-cent difference per litre between two stations not far from each other! That’s over $25 in savings on a full tank.
Don’t go too remote either. If you don’t have a camping fridge, it’ll be easier (and cheaper) to restock food or buy ice for the esky when you’re not hours from the nearest town. Check out these tips for camping without a fridge.
Focus on nature-based activities
Hiking, swimming, or snorkelling straight from the beach cost nothing and often end up being the highlights of a trip. National parks usually have low entry fees, and many of Australia’s best beaches and lookouts are completely free.
Avoid peak season
If you can, skip travelling during school holidays, especially around Christmas and Easter, when accommodation and fuel prices spike. We usually go camping inland for the Christmas holidays, where campgrounds are quieter (if not empty!) and much better value.
Travelling in the shoulder season – just before or after holidays – can make a big difference and save quite a bit.
Book early
There’s no harm in booking early if you can cancel for free later. It helps you avoid price spikes if your dates are popular. Watch for deals and special offers, and if you find something cheaper later, you’re not locked in.
Skip the cities
Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or even smaller ones like Cairns or Hobart can eat through a budget quickly. Parking, meals, and even backpacker hostels can add up fast.
If you’re after value, stay just outside the city and use public transport – it’s clean, safe, and sometimes even cheap (for example, 50c fares in Queensland).
I personally prefer smaller towns or nature spots instead. You’ll find cheaper stays, friendly locals, and more space to relax. I often combine a national park or coastal stay with a nearby country town – you get the best of both worlds. Small-town markets or roadside stalls can also have cheaper produce for your groceries (but avoid markets that mainly cater to tourists).
Extra tips for travelling Australia on a budget
- Cook your own meals. Even without much equipment, you can easily make pasta, salad, wraps, or a simple BBQ – there are public ones in Autralia. A portable gas burner is great for one-pot meals. Cooking not only saves money but also means you can eat well wherever you are. When shopping, I often look at the half-price products in the catalogue and go later in the day to look for “quick sale” discounts on products close to their best-before date – it’s a great way to cut food costs.
- Look for happy hour or meal deals. If you want to treat yourself, many pubs or restaurants offer specials midweek or early evening.
- Consider volunteering. If you have time, some programs exchange work for free accommodation and meals. For example, the volunteer program on Reef Encounter offers free meals, accommodation, and diving or snorkelling sessions in exchange for helping the crew (after you book as a customer).
- Travel insurance. Even when I’m travelling cheap, I always take out travel insurance for medical issues if I go overseas. It’s one expense that can save a lot if something goes wrong – and makes me feel more relaxed.
Have you travelled Australia on a budget? Share your tips in the comments below!
