Australia is a very big country so its wise to start thinking about how you will get around.
Internal Flights
Flying is the quickest way to fly between destinations and is recommended if you are short of time or get car sick! There are a number of discount airlines and so flying can be a cost effective way of getting around. However if you want to explore all of Australia you could end up missing on the smaller destinations that don't have airports. The majority of travellers use a combination of bus and plane travel. Fro details on which airlines fly to which destination check our our flights information page. Alternatively use the links below:
Bus or coach can be a cheap way of getting around Australia an will let you see everything and stop everywhere along the way. Be aware of how long the trips can be though. For examples Sydney to Hervey Bay takes 23 hours! Greyhound/Mcaffertys offer the main public service around Australia and you can either buy passes by the kilometre, get a combined 'Explorer Pass' or just buy direct A->B tickets. A 10% is also given to backpackers if a discount card is shown such as an ISIC, YHA, VIP or Nomads. Travelling on these services wil also allow you to meet the locals as well as other backpackers.
There are also a number of alternative coach operators around including companies such as OZ Experience who cater for backpackers rather than the general public. They operate a hop on hop off bus service along routes which you pre-purchase. For other companies have a look through the following websites:
Australia is a large country and although you can see many of the sights travelling by coach or plane if you really want to get off the beaten track then you will have to get your own road transport. Many travellers buy or hire a campervan or car which doubles as a home. Much like many Western countries Australia has its own Automobile Association which will be able to advice and assist. Petrol is also relatively cheap so if there are a few of you travelling together it can be a great exploring option! Most states will accept a driving licence from another country but its best to get yourself an International Driving Licence just in case. Its also worth noting that its a legal requirement that you keep your licence with you at all times when driving - if you don't you'll be fined.
Buying a Car or Campervan - If you are heading out to Australia for a Working Holiday or a significant amount of time then buying a car to travel around in can be a good option. Most travellers stump for a Ford or Nissan Stationwagon so that spare parts can be easily found and there's room to sleep in the back! When you arrive in the major cities ask at your hostel for details of any backpacker car fairs which are taking place. Also be sure to check out the hostel and internet cafe noticeboards for backpackers who are selling their cars on. The local newspapers will also be worth a look.
