Australia Travel Budget - Visit Australia on a Budget or Travel in Style

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Australia is a large and diverse destination known for the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns, the Sydney Opera House, and Uluru in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). It should be at the top of your travel list. In this travel cost guide, we'll break down everything you need to plan your trip's budget. From accommodation to food to sightseeing and transportation, we'll give you the details you need to enjoy every moment of your trip without overspending. So, whether you're taking in the beauty of Katoomba, scuba diving around Airlie Beach, or hiking in Alice Springs, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Australia?

You should plan to spend around $184 (AU$284) per day on your vacation in Australia. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $57 (AU$87) on meals
  • $30 (AU$46) on local transportation
  • $139 (AU$215) on hotels

A one week trip to Australia for two people costs, on average, $2,571 (AU$3,976). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $184
    AU$284
  • One Week Per person
    $1,286
    AU$1,988
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,571
    AU$3,976
  • One Month Per person
    $5,510
    AU$8,520
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,571
    AU$3,976
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $5,143
    AU$7,952
  • One Month For a couple
    $11,020
    AU$17,040
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Australia cost?

A one week trip to Australia usually costs around $1,286 (AU$1,988) for one person and $2,571 (AU$3,976) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Australia on average costs around $2,571 (AU$3,976) for one person and $5,143 (AU$7,952) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Australia will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Australia on average costs around $5,510 (AU$8,520) for one person and $11,020 (AU$17,040) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




How much do package tours cost in Australia?

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Australia is $314 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.



Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Is Australia expensive to visit?

Australia is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within the Pacific, which is known to be an expensive region, Australia is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to New Zealand or the Solomon Islands.

No matter your travel style or budget, Australia has plenty of sights, activities, and places to stay that will meet your needs. Hostels in Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth provide budget accommodation, while luxury hotels cater to those who prefer something more upscale, and there are mid-range hotels ideal for families or couples.

Australia offers a luxury experience, but you can still keep your spending in check with strategies like eating at less expensive restaurants, taking public transit, and enjoying free activities.

On average, budget travelers spend $71 (AU$110) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $184 (AU$284) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $488 (AU$755) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Australia.

For more details, see Is Australia Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Australia?

The average Australia trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Australia travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Australia cost?

Australia on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$27
(AU$41) 		$70
(AU$108) 		$189
(AU$292)
Local Transportation 1 $11
(AU$17) 		$30
(AU$46) 		$91
(AU$141)
Food 2 $23
(AU$35) 		$57
(AU$87) 		$138
(AU$213)
Entertainment 1 $12
(AU$18) 		$30
(AU$47) 		$83
(AU$128)
Alcohol 2 $3-9
(AU$4-13) 		$7-21
(AU$11-33) 		$17-52
(AU$27-80)
From real travelers - How these numbers are calculated
Three Sisters Lookout, Echo Point Katoomba, Blue Mountains Three Sisters Lookout, Echo Point Katoomba, Blue Mountains

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to manage your expectations when it comes to your travel budget. While many people like to see themselves as "budget" travelers on a shoestring budget, most find this type of travel uncomfortable. Think about what you enjoy and how you've traveled previously. Are you drawn to resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or do you prefer hostels, instead? How important is eating out to you? And what type of transportation do you prefer? Your answers to these questions will greatly affect your overall travel budget.

Who are Budget Travelers?

It's common to hear that a visit to Australia can cost just $71 a day, but unless you're willing to forgo many comforts, expect to spend significantly more.

Backpackers often find ways to stick to this tight budget, but it generally means staying in hostel dorms, grabbing meals at the cheapest spots or fast food places, relying on public transport or walking, and visiting only free attractions.

Fortunately, Australia is home to numerous hostels, and you'll find the largest number in Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth. Some places feature solid public transportation options, enabling budget travelers to dodge the high expenses of taxis or Ubers. For visitors of all kinds, food is an important aspect of Australia, but those on a budget often eat street food or whip up meals in their hostels, potentially missing out on the culinary experiences available.

What Makes You an Average Traveler?

For families and couples traveling for fun, staying in a mid-range hotel, eating at popular restaurants, and visiting famous museums and attractions with entry fees is typical. Most visitors will want to go to the long sandy beaches in Gold Coast, the SkyPoint Observation Deck in Surfers Paradise, or Noosa Main Beach in Noosa Heads on their trip. As you can expect, most of these experiences come at a price, so it's safer to plan for a trip budget around $184 per person each day.

With so many hotels and vacation rentals in Australia, you'll have no trouble finding a place that suits your needs. If you're splitting the cost with a partner, friend, or kids, you'll be able to reduce the daily per-person costs, too. You'll find plenty of family-friendly areas like Gold Coast and Cairns where hotels and restaurants cater to little ones. Consider staying at Noosa Valley Manor B&B in Doonan or Yallambee B&B in Bundanoon for a kid-friendly experience. Couples heading to Thredbo should look into Rydges Thredbo Alpine Hotel for a cozy and romantic stay. Find more hotel options for families and couples in our hotel costs guide for Australia here.

Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?

For a lavish experience with the highest level of comfort and service, expect a price tag around $488. Booking five-star hotels, dining at top restaurants, splurging on once-in-a-lifetime excursions, and hiring private drivers will put you in the luxury travel tier. You'll be enjoying the good life in places like Fraser Island and Sydney. Also, make the most of your time by booking a high-end multi-day tour such as 3 Day Adelaide to Melbourne - offered by Australian Natural Treasures Touring.

Accommodation Budget in Australia

Australia has a surprising range of hotel prices. During peak season, everything gets more expensive, so visit in the off-season for better deals. There's also a big gap between budget and luxury options, but booking early helps keep costs down.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Australia for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $139 (AU$215). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $70 (AU$108) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.


  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $70
    AU$108
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $139
    AU$215

Hotels in Australia

Looking for a hotel in Australia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Australia

The average hotel room price in Australia based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $123 in the low season and $230 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Sydney
There's a wide range of hotel prices in Sydney. You can expect to spend anywhere from $56 to $299 depending on your budget and needs. Most visitors to Sydney stay up to seven days, so you'll want to find a comfortable and convenient place if you're staying for a while. Also, a great hotel option is Valentine On George that runs about $88 per night. You can expect to pay around $27 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.

Melbourne
As one of the less touristy places, Melbourne offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $75 in the low season to $340 during the busy peak season. As many travelers stay up to five days, you should make sure to find a comfortable place in a good location if you're planning to explore for a while. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out Cambridge Cottages for $210 and Eagle's View Bed & Breakfast starting at $198. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $22 for a dorm bed.

Perth
In Perth, which is a terrific city, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $58 in the low season to $256 during the peak season. Palm Beach Bed & Breakfast ($88) is one of the best hotel options here, and Sorrento Beach Bed & Breakfast is also good, and starts at $92. You can expect to pay around $19 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel. Since many travelers spend up to four days, it's important to find a cozy spot in a prime location if you're planning to explore for an extended time.


Recommended Properties


Local Transportation Budget in Australia

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $30 (AU$46) per person, per day, on local transportation in Australia. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Australia is significantly more than public transportation.


  • Local Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $30
    AU$46
Local Transportation Tips

If saving money is a priority, public transit is your best bet for getting around. Numerous places boast reliable public transportation networks, including the extensive systems in Sydney and Gold Coast. Many visitors also enjoy discovering places by walking, which offers a chance to connect with different neighborhoods and immerse themselves in the local culture. Those who enjoy walking will find these cities particularly enjoyable.

When visiting larger cities such as Sydney and Gold Coast, it's wise to opt for a multi-day pass if you'll be using public transit frequently. Depending on your travel frequency, this could lead to significant savings over buying separate tickets.

In busy Sydney, it's much simpler to avoid driving, given the heavy traffic and congestion. Parking fees can be steep, making a car rental less appealing. Instead, consider using public transportation or walking to get around and keep your costs down.

If you plan on driving in one of the bigger cities, be sure to check with your hotel about parking ahead of time. You may be required to pay for parking either at the hotel or in a nearby public garage. In some cases, parking further out of town could be cheaper.


Recommended Services

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Below, you'll find common transit prices in Australia, gathered from real traveler experiences. These numbers offer a general sense of transportation expenses. It's important to note that your costs may vary depending on your transportation choice, with taxis and other hired vehicles usually costing significantly more than public transit.


  • Tram Ride
    AU$3.80
  • Taxi to Airport
    AU$25
  • Airport Bus
    AU$16
  • Taxi Ride
    AU$20
  • Shuttle from the Train Station
    AU$5.50
  • Shuttle to Train Station
    AU$15
  • Airtrain to the City
    AU$15
  • Go Card
    AU$25


Food Budget in Australia

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Australia can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Australia is $57 (AU$87) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.


  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $57
    AU$87

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Australia is about $57 (AU$87) per person. Previous travelers have typically spent from $23 to $138 per day. Generally, breakfast and lunch will cost less than dinner, but that will vary based on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Australia are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $10 to $17
  • Lunch: $8 to $28
  • Dinner: $20 to $45
  • Coffee: $5
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $9

Australian cuisine is very multicultural. You'll find international restaurants in almost any city, but you'll also find pubs and bars that serve up the typical meat pies and fish and chips. Barbecue is a popular activity and you can get grilled meat any number of places.

Meat Pie: A popular lunch dish throughout the country is a simple, small, meat filled pie. It's usually made from pastry and stuffed with minced meat and gravy. You can find any number of variations and some include cheese or mushrooms. Meat pies are available in cafe style restaurants and are often a cheap meal option.

Fish and Chips: Similar to their British counterpart, Australian fish and chips are made with battered and deep fried fish. They are often served with chips (french fries). This is a greasy but cheap meal option that is available in most towns and cities. You'll usually find the best versions in traditional pubs.

Barbeque: An Australian tradition, barbeque in this country includes a variety of meat types, anything from fish to steak. It's prepared outdoors on a grill and typically eaten outdoors as well. Many guesthouses, hostels, and hotels will host a barbeque once a week which offers a great way to meet fellow travelers and enjoy a filling meal.

Popular Culinary Destinations

As a popular spot for foodies, Australia boasts an array of fantastic culinary choices. Many tourists enjoy exploring the local flavors throughout their trip. Some of the top cities for dining experiences are Gold Coast, Cairns, and Surfers Paradise.

Gold Coast
Make sure you don't miss the cuisine in Gold Coast. The coastline is filled with modern Australian restaurants that serve locally caught seafood and modern twists on traditional dishes. There are wine bars, fine dining restaurants, and more casual options. You'll also find plenty of international eateries as well.

Cairns
Cairns is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. Waterfront dining with a view is what makes the restaurant scene special. Seafood is everywhere and you can enjoy the catch of the day while you relax on a beachfront terrace. There are also international restaurants that have everything from Spanish tapas to Japanese noodle bowls.

Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise is well known for its food scene. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

Sydney
Many visitors enjoy sampling the different restaurants in Sydney. There are international restaurants offering impressive dishes from around the world. You'll also find some local Australian favorites around town. Seafood is abundant, as are a number of Asian cuisines. Barramundi is a local fish that you'll find on many menus. Oysters, prawns, and John Dory (a local fish) are also popular.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
If you're a traveling foodie, you'll enjoy your time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Food & Dining Tips

When visiting larger cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Gold Coast, you can save some money by opting for lunch at nicer restaurants rather than dinner. Many restaurants in tourist districts or business centers feature lunch specials that are typically smaller and cheaper than their dinner offerings. With a little effort, you might be able to enjoy a complete multi-course gourmet meal at a budget-friendly price. Just plan for a lighter dinner afterwards.

If you're enjoying a stay in a sought-after resort area like Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, or Airlie Beach, resorts typically offer various food options, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the details to understand the pricing structure. Some resorts provide full board, which means all meals are included, whereas others might offer half board, covering only two meals. Additionally, on-site restaurants might exist that could be included in your stay or not. Also, drinks may sometimes be included, but that's not always the case. Be sure to check with the resort ahead of time to clarify which meals and drinks may incur extra charges.

If you're looking at a week-long stay or longer in Gold Coast, Cairns, or Surfers Paradise, consider that families or groups might do well in an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen. You can save by preparing your meals with economical groceries instead of dining out.

When you have children in tow, look for places that provide a kids menu. This can be a great way to cut costs, as those meals are often much cheaper. Since some restaurants don't list the kids' options, make sure to ask the waiter before you decide.

Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, but some charge extra for this service. Prices and quality can vary based on the hotel. Being informed in advance can help you decide whether to indulge in a lavish hotel buffet or simply visit a nearby bakery or café that may offer cheaper options.

Carrying a water bottle is a smart choice instead of buying drinks. It's also a way to support the environment.

When planning a tour, it's important to clarify in advance which meals are part of the package. You may be responsible for paying for some meals yourself, which could increase your overall expenses.

Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Australia. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Chef Jacqui's French Cooking Classes for $162 details
  • Street Food Tour in Melbourne's Inner North for $66 details
  • Evening Dinner Cruise for $103 details
  • Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney Harbour - Vivid Dinner Cruise for $148 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Food?

Food and meal prices in Australia, based on real travelers' reported expenses, are shown below. These typical costs can give you a sense of the overall price range for meals. However, your individual expenses might be different depending on your dining habits, restaurant choices, and specific orders.


  • Pizza
    AU$7.00
  • Dinner at Olivo (for 2)
    AU$90
  • Meat Pies
    AU$5.00
  • Food/Drink Coogie Beach
    AU$15
  • Lunch Special
    AU$15
  • Coffee
    AU$5.00
  • Coffee
    AU$4.00
  • Tea
    AU$4.00


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Australia

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Australia typically cost an average of $30 (AU$47) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.


  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $30
    AU$47
The Best Sightseeing Destinations

Australia is a highly sought-after travel destination, providing numerous opportunities for visitors to fulfill their bucket list wishes. Some of the top spots to visit in Australia include Gold Coast, Cairns, and Surfers Paradise.

Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is a popular tourist destination along the east coast of Australia. The white sandy beaches are lined with glitzy high rise skyscrapers and vibrant resorts. The area has many world class amusement parks and there is no shortage of fine dining restaurants and adrenaline-filled activities.

Cairns
Cairns is a huge tourist city and is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. The city is popular with backpackers and luxury vacationers alike. There are world class beaches and high end resorts that make this a major destination for tourists. There are also scuba diving trips and snorkeling excursions that will let you experience the marine environment first hand.

Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise is one of the most popular beach destinations in Australia. It's located along the Gold Coast, and offers access to many amusement parks and wildlife centers. The beaches are lined with high rise resorts and the city has many great restaurants and a huge nightlife scene. There are also weekly beachside markets.

Sydney
Sydney is the oldest and largest of Australia's cities. It's filled with world famous landmarks and beautiful waterfront neighborhoods. Life revolves around the water here, with Darling Harbour and Bondi Beach at the top of most visitor's itineraries.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park is an iconic destination in Australia. The dome shaped monolith holds a special place in the indigenous culture, and effort should be made to respect this spiritual site. The stunning beauty will take your breath away, particularly during sunrise and sunset.

Sightseeing Tips

Among the most stunning and beautiful spots to explore in Australia are Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), Katoomba, and Airlie Beach. These unforgettable locations are sure to leave you in awe and should definitely be on your must-visit list.

Scuba diving enthusiasts will find plenty of fantastic diving spots around Cairns, Airlie Beach, and Gold Coast. It's essential to time your visit for the right season, and also consider your budget when planning your trip due to the added costs of diving and boat trips.

Australia offers a range of fantastic beach destinations. For a nice vacation, many travelers escape to the coastline for relaxation and outdoor activities. Some of the best beaches are in Gold Coast, Cairns, and Surfers Paradise.

Hiking trails around the country draw plenty of visitors for their gorgeous views, natural beauty, and healthy activities. Some of the best places for hiking include Cairns, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and Katoomba.

A nice way to explore destinations in Australia is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Yarra Valley grazing tour with Champagne Brunch at Chandon for $166 details
  • Half-Day Jervis Bay Sea Kayak Tour for $96 details
  • Easy Bike Tour - Mt Wellington Summit Descent & Rainforest Ride for $99 details
  • Private Tour: Sydney City Highlights & Hidden Gems for $268 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Listed below are some typical prices for attractions, activities, and entry fees in Australia, sourced from actual travelers. These costs give you an idea of how much you might spend. However, your personal expenses will depend on the activities you choose, the museums or landmarks you visit, and how frequently you opt for free or low-cost options.


  • Powerhouse Museum
    AU$15
  • Surfing Museum (for 2)
    AU$11
  • Sunset Cruise (for 2)
    AU$20
  • Surf Lesson
    AU$65
  • Surf Lesson
    AU$120
  • Sea Kayak Tour (for 2)
    AU$130
  • Buddha Gardens Spa (for 2)
    AU$190
  • Sydney Tower Visit (for 2)
    AU$46


Nightlife Budget in Australia

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $14 (AU$22) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Australia per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.


  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $14
    AU$22
Popular Nightlife Destinations

Australia is a must-visit for nightlife lovers, as it attracts crowds from around the world eager to experience its legendary scene. Top nightlife cities include Gold Coast, Cairns, and Surfers Paradise.

Gold Coast
The nightlife in Gold Coast is quite popular. The nightlife scene is filled with ritz and glam, but you'll also find wild beach parties and lively nightclubs. There are backpackers and students that keep the parties going until the morning hours.

Cairns
When the sun goes down, the party picks up in Cairns. For such as small city, the nightlife scene is incredibly vibrant, particularly during the peak tourist months. Backpackers are at the heart of the action, with many bars and clubs filling up each night with a young crowd. There are dance clubs, all night parties, cocktail bars, and beach side venues that are sure to offer a good time.

Surfers Paradise
The nightlife scene is a highlight for many young visitors in Surfers Paradise. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

Sydney
Nightlife in Sydney is not to be missed. The city is filled with nightclubs and DJ hosted dance parties. There's a huge young crowd that brings together residents, students, and backpackers in a vibrant nightlife scene. Some of the best areas for nightlife are Kings Cross, Oxford Street, Surry Hills or Darling Harbour.

Coffs Harbour
If partying is a priority while you're traveling, then you'll want to visit Coffs Harbour. It's a vacation spot that attracts visitors who want to enjoy the evening activities. The Jetty Strip is popular for its nightlife scene, but you'll find no shortage of bars and pubs in other areas as well.

Nightlife Tips

While nightlife can be a highlight of your trip, cutting back on drinking can make a big difference to your travel budget.

Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Australia. A few favorites from other travelers include:

  • Full Barrel Brewery and Distillery tour for $129 details
  • Luke's McLaren Vale Wine Tour for $73 details
  • Margaret River Mountain Biking, Kayaking and Wine Tasting Tour for $132 details
  • Build your own Unique Private Winery/Brewery Tour at the Margaret River region for $109 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Alcohol?

Listed below are typical prices for alcohol and nightlife in Australia, as reported by real travelers. These figures should give you an idea of what drinks cost. However, your actual expenses will depend on your nightlife activities and dining choices, how frequently you consume alcohol, and the quantity you order. If you're looking to save on your trip, reducing your alcohol consumption is one of the easiest ways to cut down on your budget.


  • Bottle of Wine
    AU$7.75
  • Wine
    AU$7.00
  • Wine
    AU$16
  • Drinks at a Bar
    AU$14
  • Glass of Wine
    AU$7.00
  • Glass of Wine in Alice Springs
    AU$7.00
  • Evening at a Bar
    AU$24
  • Guiness Beer
    AU$8.50


Travel Costs Last Updated: Sep 20, 2024
Ayers Rock, Uluru National Park Ayers Rock, Uluru National Park

Budgeting and Travel Tips

  • Tourism in Australia really takes off during the summer months, and with that surge in visitors comes a spike in prices. Hotels fill up fast, and you'll notice accommodation and activity costs climb as demand goes up. If you're hoping to keep your travel expenses in check, it's smarter to visit in the shoulder or low seasons when there's less hustle, and prices are much more reasonable.
  • Locations like Gold Coast, Cairns, and Surfers Paradise are particularly popular with tourists, which means you should anticipate larger crowds and higher costs during peak times. Expect to encounter busy attractions with lengthy lines, sold-out tickets, and increased prices. In all areas, especially these popular destinations, try to make your reservations well in advance, ideally several months ahead.
  • In popular vacation spots like Gold Coast, Cairns, and Surfers Paradise, it's not uncommon for travelers to hang out for a week or longer. Families with kids, in particular, often opt for vacation rentals or apartments. These options offer more room to unwind, plus extras like a kitchen, which not only adds convenience but can also help you cut back on food costs.
  • If you're a backpacker or a young budget traveler, this country has got you covered. You'll discover loads of hostels and wallet-friendly activities in various spots. If you're looking to connect with fellow travelers, Gold Coast, Cairns, and Surfers Paradise are awesome places to stay inexpensively, meet new friends, and have a great time.
  • Many couples love heading to Australia for a fun or laid-back honeymoon. Maybe you're looking for a romantic retreat or just a thrilling weekend adventure. Whatever your vibe, this country offers countless fantastic places to discover with your partner. Some of the most romantic locations include Gold Coast, Sydney, and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).
  • A vacation to this country is a hit with many families. There are countless great places suited for family getaways, such as Gold Coast, Cairns, and Surfers Paradise. Children will enjoy a range of fun activities, and adults will also find themselves well entertained throughout their stay.
  • Many visitors seek out a restful vacation at a resort. They enjoy the simplicity of not having to plan their trip or travel between destinations. Luxurious resorts provide a mix of serene lodging, engaging activities, and fantastic food. If you desire a calming location where you can indulge yourself stylishly, make your way to Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, or Airlie Beach. This is where you'll find some of the best resorts in Australia.

Budgeting Challenges

  • For many, the scuba diving in Cairns, Airlie Beach, and Gold Coast is a highlight, though it can come with a hefty price tag. Dive trips, rental equipment, and boat excursions could take up a good chunk of your budget. Also, don't forget to check that your travel insurance covers any potential accidents.
  • With Australia being such a large country with so much to see, you can either explore it slowly over a longer period of time, or focus on one smaller region during a shorter visit. Moving around quickly and covering more distance will add up fast, especially when it comes to transportation costs.
  • When traveling with small children, it's sometimes more convenient to rely on a private vehicle or taxi instead of public transit. Of course, this will come with a higher price tag.
  • For families, many hotels in Sydney are not large enough to accommodate a family of four. Space can be tight, so be prepared to find a larger hotel or pay for two rooms.

Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland (Tourism Australia) Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland (Tourism Australia)
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Australia Melbourne, Australia

Australia is both a country and a continent. While it is most famous for it's wilderness and stunning natural beauty, it is also one of the world's most developed and economically thriving countries. Perhaps one of the most famous areas in the country is the "outback," but other national parks and the Great Barrier Reef all have much to offer adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers.

The area has far more to offer than just adventure sports and outdoor settings. There are countless cosmopolitan cities such as Sydney and Melbourne. If you're a beach lover you'll have miles of coastline to explore, and foodies will find many international and local restaurants that receive rave reviews.

For many, Australia seems like a far off destination. It takes an entire day to fly there from North America. It's in the southern hemisphere, so July is cold and Christmas is hot. It's a country that looks strikingly like any other westernized country, but it has animals and vegetation that are uniquely its own. It's these familiarities, yet sharp differences that make this part of the world a favorite destination for the young and old alike.

The days of budget travel in this part of the world are long gone. Not only is it an expensive plane flight from most of the world, but the cost of living has skyrocketed in the area. Simple meals, accommodation (hostels, mid-range, or high-end hotels), and transportation all cost more than you would expect. Despite the increasing cost of travel here, there are some tips you can follow to keep your budget in check. Probably the best cost saving tip is to cook your own meals if you have access to a kitchen. Restaurants are not cheap and you can easily save a lot of money by stocking up on groceries and preparing your own food. If you're renting a vehicle and traveling alone, find other travelers to split the cost. Most people will want to rent a car at some point during their trip. Coordinate with others and you'll easily cut the transportation costs in half.

At A Glance
  • Australia is located in the southern hemisphere so the winter there runs between June and August and the summer is between December and February. The winter is also the dry season in the tropical areas and the summer is the wet season. If you're in the southern areas of the East Coast then the rain is more evenly distributed throughout the year but in the southern parts of the country there are more extreme temperature variations.

  • This is a very multicultural country with some of the most diverse cities being Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney. Each of these cities is well known for its diversity of restaurants which represent a global population. Melbourne in particular is known as the center for the arts while Brisbane has many different multicultural urban villages. If you're looking for the area's best festivals then these are often found in Adelaide where there is a strong German influence.

  • Do take note that this country has very strict quarantine requirements. Because it is an island with highly diverse and unique biodiversity, the government works hard to prevent the introduction of invasive species. You must declare all animal and vegetable derived products and your luggage will be thoroughly scanned. If you don't declare something then there is a strictly enforced $220 fine and prosecution in some more serious cases.

  • This is a country where you drive on the left hand side of the road. This may be challenging for visitors who are used to driving on the right. As a general rule, overseas licenses are valid for driving up to three months after you arrive. If your license isn't in English you will be required to get an International Driving Permit.

  • You will likely need to fly at least once during your trip. Compare plane ticket prices on consolidator websites but purchase the tickets directly from the airlines to avoid any additional charges.

Related:

Looking for a party? Find a hostel in Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns, or along the Gold Coast.

Top Tourist Attractions

The Great Barrier Reef: Perfect for scuba divers and snorkelers alike, this natural wonder is awe inspiring and beautiful. Many divers come to Australia specifically for the Great Barrier Reef, which is the largest continuous coral reef in the world. You can arrange dive or snorkel trips after you arrive through any number of dive shops around town.

Sydney Harbor: The most famous landmark in Sydney, this area is a beautiful natural harbor that is home to both the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge. It's probably the most photographed area in Sydney.

Ayers Rock: Uluru is of religious significance to the Aborigines. It's an amazing sight, particularly at sunrise and sunset and is one of the most popular natural landmarks in the country. The easiest way to get to Ayers Rock is by plane.



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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


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