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Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world, with very different regions and climates. As such, deciding where to go and how to get there requires some consideration. Luckily, Australia offers many great transportation options, making travel around the country relatively easy. You can travel by plane, train, bus, boat, bicycle, car, or campervan. Each mode of transportation has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the best way to travel around the country should coincide with your interests and schedule.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ease of travel | Australia is easy to get around despite its size |
| Transportation options | Plane, train, bus, car, boat, taxi, bicycle |
| Number of airports | 613 domestic and international airports |
| Airlines | Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Rex |
| Coach operator | Greyhound |
| Rail network | 21,000 miles of tracks |
| Number of rail routes | 6 popular routes |
| Ferry services | Spirit of Tasmania, SeaLink ferries |
| Road conditions | Well-maintained roads, rest stops, service stations |
| Road safety | Nocturnal animals, kangaroos, cows, sheep on roads; risk of potholes |
| Fuel availability | Service stations in cities and towns, but distances between fill-ups in the countryside |
| Cost of travel | Travel outside Melbourne-Brisbane corridor is expensive |
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Travel by plane
Australia is a massive country, and while there are many ways to get around, travelling by plane is the best way to cover large distances in a short time. Australia has approximately 613 domestic and international airports, offering easy access to the country's remote corners. The number of airports makes it much easier and faster to travel long distances between popular cities, main highlights, and unique destinations.
Australia's domestic airlines – including Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Rex – serve all state capital cities and many regional cities, making it an easy way to travel between Australia's iconic destinations. There's no shortage of budget airlines, so if you aren't overly attached to your suitcase, and can comfortably live out of a backpack for a few days, you'll be able to travel inexpensively by air. Qantas is reasonably priced for the level of service they provide, and you only need to arrive one hour before your flight.
When choosing your flights, it's a good idea to make some comparisons. For example, it might be cheaper to get a Jetstar flight and pay for extra baggage, or it might be more convenient to go with Qantas. Keep in mind that some items may not be allowed on board, so it's always good to check with your flight operator in advance.
If you're travelling within Australia, you won't need to bring your passport with you, which is one less thing to worry about. Australia's airports provide services for people with disabilities and can assist with baggage, getting around the airport, and getting on and off the plane.
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Travel by train
Australia is a large country, but its vast rail network makes it easy to travel between major cities by train. With over 21,000 miles of tracks, you can conveniently get to many places by train, although it may take longer than flying.
There are six popular rail lines in Australia: the Tilt, the Indian Pacific, the NSW TrainLink, The Ghan, the Queensland Railways, and the Spirit of the Outback. These trains offer good service and beautiful scenery. The Ghan, for example, is a great way to reach Alice Springs or Darwin from Adelaide. The Indian Pacific links Sydney, Adelaide, and Perth in four days, crossing the Nullarbor Plain. Queensland Railways link Brisbane with Townsville and Cairns. In the East, XPT trains connect Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane at affordable prices.
You can book train trips online at www.vline.com.au. Railbookers is another company that offers customizable tour packages, including train tickets, hotels, transfers, and flights.
Travel by bus is an alternative to trains, providing access to rural areas. Buses are more economical but much slower, so they may not be a good option if you're short on time.
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Travel by bus
Australia is a huge country, and while travelling from cities or larger towns can be done via public transport, getting to rural areas may require your own transport.
Buses are a common way for backpackers to get from one place to another in Australia. Greyhound Australia is the country's only national coach network, with over 180 stops across the country. The Greyhound Whimit Pass allows unlimited travel anywhere on the Greyhound network map, in any direction, for your selected period of time. Buses are comfortable, with air-conditioning, toilets, WiFi, and decent leg space. They are also more economical than trains, though they are slower.
If you're looking to travel only the East Coast by bus, Greyhound and Premier Coaches offer routes along the entire East Coast, from Cairns to Melbourne and beyond. There are also Australia-wide and East Coast-specific coach passes that allow unlimited travel along a coastal route.
If you're looking for a guided tour, outfits such as AAT Kings, Adventure Tours Australia, Autopia Tours, and Untamed Escapes offer packages that include accommodation and meals.
If you have ample time in Australia and want to save money, bus travel is ideal. However, if you're short on time and have a particular itinerary, it may be tricky to get to certain spots without a car.
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Travel by car
Australia is a large country with very different regions and climates. There are several ways to travel around the country, including by train, plane, bicycle, car, or boat. If you are considering travelling around Australia by car, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Firstly, driving around Australia, also known as "The Big Lap", is considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Australia's Highway 1, "The Big Lap", is a network of highways that connects seven of Australia's eight capital cities and other key locations. The journey offers a diverse range of landscapes, from wetlands and rainforests to snowy highlands. However, it requires careful planning and preparation to ensure a safe and comfortable trip. It is recommended to plan for at least a three-month road trip to avoid rushing and to fully enjoy the experience.
Secondly, when it comes to driving in Australia, it is important to be aware of the road conditions and potential hazards. The roads in the Australian outback can be rough and unsuitable for certain vehicles. It is advisable to check with your car hire company to ensure your vehicle is suitable for the outback conditions. Unsealed road conditions can vary depending on the weather, and it is important to adjust your driving accordingly. For example, on dirt roads, it is recommended not to exceed 60 km/h (37 mph) to allow for safe braking and turning. Additionally, be cautious of animals on the road, especially kangaroos, which are commonly found on country roads, especially around dawn and dusk.
Thirdly, staying connected and informed is crucial when travelling by car in Australia. Consider investing in a portable 4G Wi-Fi device or a local phone plan to stay online and access useful apps and information. Apps such as Google Maps, WikiCamps, and Petrol Spy can provide valuable assistance during your trip. WikiCamps, for example, offers a comprehensive database of campgrounds and caravan parks, making it easier to find overnight parking spots.
Lastly, when deciding on your mode of transportation in Australia, consider your schedule, budget, and preferred level of comfort. While flying can be expensive, it is the best option for covering large distances in a short time. On the other hand, travelling by car offers freedom and flexibility, allowing you to explore the country at your own pace. Weigh the costs of car rental, insurance, fuel, and accommodation against the costs of other transportation options to make an informed decision.
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Travel by boat
If you're looking to travel to Australia by boat, there are several options available, including cargo ships, cruises, and personal boats. However, it's important to note that these options can involve long travel times and may not be as straightforward as flying. Here are some key considerations for each option:
Cargo Ships
Cargo ships are one of the options for travelling to Australia by sea. For example, a cargo ship journey from Singapore to Fremantle, Western Australia, takes around 9 days and costs approximately 1100 euros. The fastest freighters from Asia to Australia typically take 9-12 days and make multiple stops, allowing for a more extended trip. On average, freighter trips cost 100-150 US dollars or euros per day, including meals and a private cabin.
Cruises
Cruise ships offer a comfortable and luxurious way to travel to Australia. They depart from various ports worldwide, including Los Angeles, Hawaii, Seattle, New York, San Francisco, England, Germany, and Spain. The shortest cruise journeys take about a month and cost around 8,000 euros or US dollars per cabin. It's important to note that cruises may be subject to piracy, which can take various forms, including armed robbery, kidnapping for ransom, and unlawful requests for payment. Therefore, it is essential to research and take precautions to reduce the risk of piracy.
Personal Boats
If you own a sailboat or yacht, you can consider crossing the Pacific Ocean to reach Australia. This journey typically takes 10-20 weeks, with common stops in Hawaii, Fiji, and other South Pacific island countries. Alternatively, you can join someone else's boat as crew in exchange for the passage. Websites like Find a Crew and CrewSeekers connect captains with crew members willing to work during the voyage. It is important to note that sailing across the Pacific is a long and challenging journey, and captains often prefer experienced crew members. Therefore, it is recommended to gain some sailing experience or take a sailing course before embarking on such a voyage.
Regardless of your chosen method of boat travel to Australia, there are some essential safety considerations to keep in mind:
- Research and respect territorial waters and maritime borders. Some countries may have exclusion zones near sensitive government infrastructure, and unauthorised entry without the right visa can lead to arrest or jail.
- Familiarise yourself with safety equipment and regulations. Safety equipment may be legally required for both the pilot and passengers, and only certified equipment may be permitted in some countries.
- Understand local laws regarding alcohol consumption and operating watercraft. Sailing or riding a watercraft under the influence is often illegal and dangerous.
- Be cautious of piracy, which can occur in both coastal and international waters. All forms of shipping can be attractive targets for pirates.
- Always wear a life jacket when on smaller watercraft. Inter-island ferries and rivercraft may be overloaded, poorly maintained, or lack necessary life-saving equipment.
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Frequently asked questions
Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world, so the best way to travel around the country will depend on your interests and schedule. Domestic flights are the most common mode of interstate travel, with approximately 613 domestic airports across the country. You can also travel by bus, coach, train, car, boat, or ridesharing apps.
Buses can be an efficient and economical way to visit remote destinations in Australia. Greyhound offers a range of passes lasting between three days and twelve months, including the 30-day Whimit pass, which works out to just under $17 AUD per day.
The roads in the Australian outback can be rough and unsuitable for some vehicles. The roads can also become congested with wildlife after sundown, including kangaroos, cows, and sheep. It is recommended that you avoid driving on unsealed roads during the summer "wet season" (November to April) in tropical northern Australia.
