Smart Traveller Australia

HOW CAN YOU BE A SMARTER TRAVELLER ON YOUR NEXT TRIP TO OZ?

So, you’re ready to embark on a trip to the big ol’ land Down Under? Congrats on the decision of a lifetime! We’re sure you’ve heard about our stunning beaches, iconic wildlife, and endless sunshine, but what we REALLY want to make sure of is that you’ve got the packing essentials sorted before you get here and dip your toes in! 

We’ve slapped together a little guide to help you pack like a pro and ensure an unforgettable trip. So, let’s dive right in!

SUNSCREEN

In Australia, the sun shines brighter than a diamond on a kangaroo’s tail – with it, sunscreen becomes your new best friend. Don’t forget to pack a high SPF sunscreen, preferably a mineral 50+ (better for our oceans when it washes off!) to protect your skin from the scorching Aussie sun. Trust us, you don’t want to look like a lobster (like those many English flash-packers do; we’ve all seen the pics) when you meet those cute koalas.

WIDE-BRIMMED HAT

Crikey! Protecting yourself from the sun is no laughing matter, especially when it comes to your face. Consider packing a classic Akubra hat or a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from those intense sun rays. Not only will you look like a true-blue Aussie, but you’ll also be protecting your face from getting sunburned and peeling like a baked potato. And no, we do not actually wear those weird cork hats that you think we do.

BUG SPRAY

While Australia is home to some of the world’s most unique and fascinating wildlife, it also has its fair share of pesky insects. Mosquitoes, flies, and other bugs can sometimes make their presence known. To avoid becoming their next snack, pack a reliable bug spray and keep those critters at bay. Try to avoid the aerosols as they’re nasty and bad for the environment. 

 

CASUAL & COMFORTABLE CLOTHING

When it comes to dressing here, the vibe is laid-back and casual – leave your fancy suits and formal dresses behind. Think t-shirts, boardies (swimming shorts), sun dresses, denim shorts, and thongs, not the g-string kind (flip-flops). If you’re planning on hiking and straying away from the surf and sand, our Aussie-made Blundstone Boots are really sturdy and can handle any terrain. For your casual slip-on shoes, you can’t go past Birkenstocks or Crocs (not the real ones that you’re probably already concerned about by being here). But! Remember, you’re here to enjoy the relaxed Aussie lifestyle – this starts with being comfortable!

HOW TO BE A SMART (AND ORGANISED) TRAVELLER HERE IN OZ

Ok, so you’ve landed! You’re here! Woo hoo! Now what? Let’s get you sorted and set up for success! 

Firstly, how do you get around?
Once you’ve landed at the airport and sorted out your airport transfer, you’ll want to know how to get around like a local. Now, depending on where you’re staying in Oz, we have different systems for public transport (just to be confusing). 

 

SO LET’S COVER THE EAST COAST:

MELBOURNE

You’ll need a Myki card. You can purchase a Myki card from retail outlets displaying the Myki sign, visitor centres and train stations. Use your Myki card on trains, trams and buses.

 

SYDNEY

The Opal card is the easiest, most convenient way of paying for your travel on public transport in Sydney. It can be used on all public transport, including trains, ferries, buses, and light rail, and you can grab one from most train stations and retail outlets that display the opal sign.

 

BRISBANE

You’ll need to grab a Go Card and load it with funds at designated retailers at Brisbane Airport and convenience stores, as well as at train stations throughout the city. It can be used on all public transport, such as trains, citycats (ferries), buses and the light rail. You can get one from most train stations and retail outlets displaying the Go Card sign.

 

WHERE TO GET YOUR ESSENTIALS?

Now that you’ve got to your boutique hotel, it’s time to sort out that rumbling stomach – we bet you’re starving (really hungry)! 

 

Depending on your budget, you most likely want to check out the local supermarkets to stock up on your essentials. Aldi is your most budget-friendly option, so you have your Woolworths (we call it Woolies), Coles, or IGA. Don’t forget to bring your own reusable bags! We also have tonnes of local fruit and veggie stalls and farmers markets in Oz. Fruit and Veg shops and farmers’ markets are great for the freshest and local produce to where you are staying, which is better for the environment as it not only limits the plastic used but also the travel time for the fresh produce to get to where they’re being sold to you!

 

Did you know we have some lux Aussie cuisine? We’re not talking about those weird, witchetty grubs they show you on every Aussie travel TV show. Looking to dive into some true-blue Aussie treats you can’t live without? Click here for all the deets. While you’re at it, look up the delights on a Tim Tam Slam. You can thank us later.

 

So, get packing and we’ll see you down here! 

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