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Anyone could agree that Australia is not a cheap travel destination any more. If you are in the country and want to tour around, you have to allocate a significant amount of budget to do so. If you are from another country, you have to plan your travel really well and bring with you enough pocket money to roam around. Spending your money smartly would be a key to enjoying the tour of the country.

As you travel around the country, intend to save on costs as much as possible. You could possibly and easily do so if you would make strategic and logical plans. Here are some tips that could serve as your practical guide if you are planning to go to and tour Australia on a budget.

Head to places where costs are reasonable

Specific states and cities in Australia are expensive, while some are less costly. For instance, Sydney could be considered as among the most expensive city to go to, though it has many to offer to ensure you are having a good time. Staying in the city for several weeks as a tourist could really blow off most of your savings or budget allocation for the trip. If you really want to experience Sydney, you may put it at the last stop of your itinerary so you could still have the resources to go to many other places. You may rather check out Brisbane or Perth as an entry or starting point for your tour.

Aim to go to the northern states or cities. You could get better and cheaper deals for accommodation and meals the further you head north. For instance, hostel prices are cheaper in Queensland, where dinner could be provided at a surprisingly low price or for free. Also travel during off peak season to make sure you could get lower priced deals.

Save on transport

Budget airlines could be the cheapest means of transportation if you plan to tour around the country-continent. However, you would surely miss a lot if you prefer to take plane rides. You should try out getting to a Greyhound bus. Through a land ride, you could surely see a lot of the country.

If you decide to drive a car, it would be advisable if you would go with a group. Split the rental and petrol costs. Choose the right vehicle to rent out, if you are doing so. Camping at caravan parks and camper vans could be costly.

Eating out

Of course, you could save more money if you would intend to cook your meals on your own. But if you are a traveller, you may find it impossible or very difficult to do so as your accommodation may not allow you to cook. Look for good value meals when you eat out. Pub grub is recommended. You may also try bring-your-own restaurants, which allow you to bring your own wine for a minimal corkage fee. Food courts at city centres could also help you save.

Try having a YHA card. It could be a great passport to massive discounts on just about anything from bus tickets to pizzas. It could be an ideal investment as you tour around. If you plan to socialize and drink, try to do it in your apartment or hostel at times instead of doing it in bars or pubs, which could be costly.

Andrew has backpacked Australia for a couple of years. He is now working in the finance industry specialising in business loans