Everyone thinks backpacking Australia means speed-running the country on three hours’ sleep and a diet of hostel pasta. Then they somehow end up extending “just a few nights” into two weeks. This is why long stay accommodation in Sydney is having a moment.

Everyone thinks winter in Manly will be quiet. Then they’re paying less, staying longer and wondering why they didn’t come sooner. This is what it’s actually like, from empty beaches to better vibes, and why travellers in the know wouldn’t do it any other way.

Australia isn’t cheap, we’re not going to pretend it is. But thousands of backpackers still make it work every day without blowing their entire savings. It all comes down to how you travel. Slow it down, spend smarter, and suddenly those “scary” travel costs start looking a whole lot more manageable.

Everyone worries they won’t meet anyone while backpacking Australia. Then they’re sharing meals, making plans and wondering how they ended up with a whole group. This is what it’s actually like, from awkward first days to easy friendships, and why it all happens faster than you think.

Everyone says they’ll just visit Manly for the day. Then they’re extending their stay and reworking their plans. This is what Manly Australia is actually like, from beach routines to easy social vibes, and why so many travellers end up staying longer than they meant to.

Everyone thinks hostel life will be chaotic. Then they’re sharing dinners, swapping travel tips and extending their stay. This is what hostel life is actually like, from dorm room quirks to unexpected friendships, and why so many travellers end up loving the chaos.

Everyone wonders if solo female travel will feel scary. Then they’re booking another city and extending their stay. This is what solo female travel in Australia is actually like, from safety nerves to confidence boosts, and why so many women leave feeling stronger than when they arrived.

Everyone says they’ll “just try one surf lesson.” Then they’re checking the forecast and booking another. This is what beginner surf lessons in Manly are actually like, from first wipeouts to first rides, and why so many travellers end up completely hooked.

Everyone says they’re only going to Manly for the day. Then they stay. This is what it’s actually like to stay near Manly Beach, and why so many travellers end up stretching their plans without meaning to.

Thinking about travelling solo in Australia? Love that for you.
Also totally fair if you’ve got about 47 tabs open right now, asking is it safe, will I make friends and how soon is too soon to cancel my return flight.

Halloween at Stoke Beach House hits different. One night of wild costumes, big energy, and the kind of chaos that makes Manly unforgettable. This year’s party might just be our best yet.

Only have a few days to spare? Don’t worry — three days in Manly is all you need to fall in love with Sydney’s most laid-back beach town.