Ever dreamt of jetting off to explore Australia? But it’s never felt possible on your bank balance. Well, if you’re a student, backpacker or just super cheap, we’ve got good news. Australia is packed with incredible places to visit that won’t break the bank. Whether you love scenic drives, urban adventures or quirky small towns, we’re here to tell you where to go. Keep reading for ten awesome Australian destinations you can visit on the cheap.
Cheap Destinations in Australia: The Best Places to Travel on a Budget
1. Cairns, Queensland
Known for its warm weather and as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns offers affordable dorms, hostels and transportation deals year round. You’ll find heaps of free things to do in Cairns too, like the Esplanade Lagoon, huge outdoor markets, bushwalks in the nearby Daintree Rainforest, and much more. Dive instead of snorkel and hunt for cheap package deals and discounts on Reef day trips or visits to Green or Fitzroy Island for the best budget travel deals.
2. Byron Bay, New South Wales
Byron Bay’s world-famous surf beaches and chilled out alternative scene always make it a travel hot spot. It’s easy to keep your costs down with free beaches, walks to Cape Byron Lighthouse, and Byron Bay’s buzzing community markets. Getting around Byron Bay is a breeze by bike or public bus and it’s full of hostels for a budget-friendly stay.
3. Blue Mountains, New South Wales
The Blue Mountains are less than two hours west of Sydney and are a budget holiday hot spot. It’s rugged, natural beauty and dozens of free or inexpensive things to do make it perfect for anyone on a budget. Highlights include the famous Three Sisters lookout, bushwalking on scenic fire trails (like the Grand Canyon Walk) or visiting Leura Cascades. You can get from Sydney to the Blue Mountains really cheap on the direct train and book cheap hostels in Katoomba and surrounding areas.
4. Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Great Ocean Road is one of the most famous road trips in the world for a reason. Grab your car or campervan and drive the 243 kilometres along Australia’s dramatic southwest coastline, past towering limestone stacks like the Twelve Apostles, lush rainforests and surf beaches such as Bells Beach. Free things to see on the Great Ocean Road include hikes in Otway National Park, spotting wild koalas at Kennett River, or Cape Otway Lighthouse (weather permitting). Save money on accommodation by camping or staying in hostels in ocean-side towns such as Apollo Bay.
5. Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
It’s not usually the first place people think of for cheap travel in Australia, but Canberra is an amazing capital city for visitors on a budget. Most of the city’s best museums and art galleries are free, including the National Gallery and National Museum of Australia. The city itself is a lovely walk or bike ride along the picturesque Lake Burley Griffin. It’s worth hiking up Mount Ainslie for some of the best views around – it’s also free.
6. Adelaide & Glenelg, South Australia
With free trams, cheap taxis, free markets and a tight city-centre layout, Adelaide is a wallet-friendly city break. Wander through art galleries and enjoy the city’s culture and history, then take a short bus or tram ride to Glenelg Beach for a relaxed beach vibe. Adelaide is filled with hostels and budget motels. Check out museum and attraction discounts for students.
7. Mornington Peninsula, Victoria
Less than 90 minutes from Melbourne by car or train, the Mornington Peninsula boasts calm beaches, nature walks, hot springs, and small country towns. Head to rugged national parks like Point Nepean National Park for cliff top walks or enjoy quaint seaside markets along the way. Public transport (train and bus) are both super cheap ways to reach the Mornington Peninsula from Melbourne. You can also find motels and hostels in local towns.
8. Port Douglas & Atherton Tablelands, Queensland
Whitsundays are beautiful, but why not take your time and visit Port Douglas instead? It’s a more chilled, less touristy entry point to the reef. Or head inland a few hours to the Atherton Tablelands for rainforests, waterfalls and budget-friendly places to stay. Stop at local markets, hike through rainforests, and enjoy self-catering to save even more.
9. Noosa, Queensland
Noosa is famous for its golden beaches and chillaxed lifestyle. Walk along Noosa National Park (free entry and lovely coastal views on easy walking trails), or peruse the cafes and foodie scene in town. Keep your accommodation costs down by staying at hostels or caravan parks.
10. Katoomba, New South Wales
Katoomba is nestled right in the heart of the Blue Mountains and is a great base to explore the area’s natural wonders. From bushwalking and hikes to waterfalls, the Blue Mountains have so much to offer for all different interests and budgets – mostly free or for a small entry fee. Katoomba has great budget hostels and guesthouses.
Budget Travel Tips for Australia
Plan to Save Money in Australia
- Accommodation: Use hostel booking websites, or search for work exchanges or camping options
- Transportation: Look for student discounts, bus passes (like the Greyhound Whimit Pass), or split fares on popular shared rides
- Food: Frequent markets and self-cater (cook your own meals) to save on food
- Seasons: Travel during shoulder season months (March–May and September–November) for cheaper prices and good weather
Free & Cheap Experiences
- National parks: Most have no or minimal entry fees
- City attractions: Museums, galleries, and markets
- Beaches: Explore Australia’s incredible public beaches for free
FAQs
1. What is the cheapest way to travel around Australia?
Buses and campervans are the cheapest way to travel long distances. For intercity travel, keep searching for good deals on budget airlines. Try to avoid peak holiday periods where possible.
2. Is it possible to find cheap accommodation in popular tourist areas?
Yes! Hostels, caravan parks and even Airbnbs and cheap motels are widely available in most tourist areas. Book early, especially on holidays and popular times of year, for best rates.
3. When is the best time to visit Australia on a budget?
Travel during shoulder season months for lower prices, less crowds and great weather. Shoulder seasons are usually March–May and September–November.
4. Can I find free things to do in Australian cities?
Yes, of course! Australian cities often have free walking tours, museums, art galleries, parks, and festivals to enjoy.
5. How much should I budget per day for a cheap Australia trip?
It can vary, but budget travellers can aim to spend about AUD $60-100/day for accommodation, food and transportation with careful planning and smart travel tips.
Start Planning your Affordable Adventures Today
Inspired by these Australia travel destinations? Compare routes and compare rates to book budget-friendly accommodation ahead of time for best deals. Head to the comments and let us know your own Australian budget travel tips. We want to help each other travel more, for less!
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