Leslie Massey
Australia is a large country with long distances between destinations, so many travellers opt to rent a car to get around. However, it is entirely possible to travel around Australia without a car, and there are several alternative transport options to choose from. If you want to travel on a budget, the cheapest way to get around is by bus. Although it can be time-consuming, it's a popular choice for backpackers and Australians who don't own a car, with extensive routes that cover the major spots. Hitchhiking is also an option, as it is generally not illegal in Australia, although regulations vary from state to state. If you're short on time, flying is a good option, as all major cities and many regional towns have an airport. You can also get around cities like Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne on foot or by using public transport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Possible | Yes |
| Transport Options | Bus, train, flights, carpooling, hitchhiking, bike sharing, ferries, walking |
| Cheapest Transport Option | Bus |
| Popular Bus Routes | Alice Springs to Darwin, Melbourne to Sydney |
| Time Taken by Bus | 18 hours from Alice Springs to Darwin, 10 hours from Melbourne to Sydney |
| Cheapest Flight Rates | Booking in advance |
| Car Rental Price | Starts at 40 AUD/day |
| Carpooling Websites | www.coseats.com |
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What You'll Learn
Travel by bus or coach
Travelling across Australia by bus or coach is possible and is a popular way to travel, especially for international backpackers and Australians who don't own a car. The routes covered are extensive, and you can count on being able to visit all the major places you want to see. The biggest advantage of bus travel in Australia is that it is often the cheapest transport option. Greyhound and Premier Coaches offer routes along the entire East Coast, from Cairns to Melbourne and beyond. The first and biggest pro of getting around with bus and coach services is that you will save money. The second best thing about travelling by bus is the flexibility it allows, especially if you buy unlimited passes like the Greyhound Whimit or the Premier Value.
However, one of the most noticeable cons of bus travel in Australia is time. As the sixth-largest country in the world, it takes quite a bit of time to get from place to place. Unlike Europe, where you can enter multiple countries by driving in one day, you can drive for days in Australia and still be in the same state. For example, one traveller spent 18 hours on a bus from Alice Springs to Darwin, while another time it was 10 hours spent on the bus from Melbourne to Sydney. There are stops at roadhouses but only really to stretch your legs, go to the toilet, and grab a bite to eat.
If you have ample time in Australia and want to save money, bus travel is ideal. However, if you have a particular itinerary with spots unavailable to coach networks or want complete travel autonomy, it can get a bit tricky.
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Hitchhiking and carpooling
Hitchhiking is possible in Australia, and it can be a way to travel the country on a shoestring budget. Hitchhiking is not illegal in Australia, although some states may lead you to believe it is. It is, however, a traffic offence in some states, and you can be fined for obstructing traffic by standing on the road or shoulder to flag down a ride. Hitchhiking is particularly discouraged in Queensland and Victoria.
There are several pros and cons to hitchhiking in Australia. Firstly, it is free, flexible, and a great way to meet locals and gain insider knowledge about the country. You can also visit places off the beaten track, like small towns, hidden beach coves, and towns in the Outback. However, it is important to be cautious when hitchhiking, as there have been reports of backpackers being attacked and other violent incidents. It is recommended to keep track of the news and avoid areas that have recently seen trouble. Always trust your instincts, and if someone seems suspicious, do not get into their vehicle.
When hitchhiking, it is advisable to make a sign with your destination written in large letters, and to look clean and presentable to increase your chances of getting picked up. Truck stops are a great place to find rides, especially for long distances across the Outback. It is also worth noting that cellphone coverage in the Outback can be unreliable, so it is a good idea to take plenty of water and other essential supplies with you.
Carpooling is another option for getting around Australia. It is a cheap, social, and convenient way to travel, and it helps reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions. There are carpooling websites and apps, such as coseats.com and Moovl, which connect drivers and passengers travelling in the same direction. These platforms allow users to share fuel expenses, tolls, and parking fees, making carpooling an economical option. Carpooling is also a great way to meet new people and reduce the stress of driving.
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Exploring cities without a car
If you're staying in a city for several weeks, it might be worth renting a car to explore the surrounding areas. Car rental can be the cheapest and easiest way to get to the outskirts or lesser-known spots that public transport doesn't reach. Prices differ depending on the agency, city, and type of vehicle, but they can start as low as 40 AUD/day. If you're looking to rent for just a day or a short distance, car-sharing websites are a great option, as they're relatively cheap and hassle-free.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, travelling by bus is a popular choice for backpackers and locals alike. Greyhound buses are a well-known option, offering cheap rates if booked in advance. While buses are slower than other forms of transport, they cover extensive routes, ensuring you can visit all the major places you want to see.
For shorter distances within cities, walking is always an option, and in some cases, like in Port Douglas, everything is within walking distance. Additionally, in some cities like Canberra, electric scooters are available for hire, providing a fun and easy way to get around.
Lastly, if you're looking for a unique way to travel between cities, carpooling and hitchhiking are options in Australia. While regulations vary from state to state, hitchhiking is generally not illegal, and people are usually friendly and willing to offer rides.
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Travel by plane
Australia is a large country, and the best way to see it is by car. However, if you don't have access to a car, there are other options for getting around, including travelling by plane.
Flying is the quickest way to get around Australia. All the major cities have an airport, and many regional towns do, too. Flying into different destinations and basing yourself in one place for a while will help you to see the things you want to see without spending hours in a vehicle. You can then use local transport to get around.
To get the best deal on airfare, check out the airlines' websites directly. They often have special deals and sales, and it's usually cheaper to fly during the week (Tuesday to Thursday). You can also use a website or app like Skyscanner to compare and book airfare.
If you're looking for cheap flights to Australia, websites like Expedia and Trip.com offer a wide range of affordable plane tickets, including both round-trip and one-way reservations.
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Travel by train
Australia is a geographically vast country, and while flying is a popular option for those wanting to take in the sights, it can be an expensive way to travel and often misses out on the smaller towns and landscapes that give Australia its character. Train travel in Australia is a great way to explore the country and connect with the heart of its culture. Trains will take you to places in Australia that planes never will, and they visit all the capital cities as well as offering rural routes.
The Ghan runs from Adelaide to Darwin, and the Indian Pacific travels from Sydney to the Western Australian coast. These luxury trains offer extended stops at key sites, and high-quality meals are often included in the ticket price. Sleeper cabins with private bathrooms are available, and passengers can enjoy the large, padded seats with plenty of legroom. The large windows offer uninterrupted views of the diverse landscapes, from bustling city streets to azure waters and untouched deserts.
Train travel is also one of the greenest options for tourists. According to Perth's Murdoch University, Australian buses use three times more energy than trains to carry a single passenger one kilometre. Trains are typically diesel or electric, creating fewer greenhouse emissions than planes and rental cars.
Travelling by train in Australia is a great way to relax and unwind while taking in the views of this beautiful country.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to travel around Australia without a car. There are various alternative modes of transport, including planes, trains, buses, bicycles, and ferries.
Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Canberra are all accessible without a car. Sydney, in particular, has a very good public transport system, including trains, buses, and ferries.
Long-distance buses, such as Greyhound buses, are a popular and cost-effective way to travel between cities in Australia. Trains are also an option, although they are less frequent than buses and flights.
Having a car in cities can be a hindrance due to limited parking spaces. Additionally, travelling without a car can be more cost-effective, especially when considering rental and fuel costs.
Research car-free activities and use travel guides to plan your trip. Utilise public transport, book tours, or consider carpooling and ridesharing options. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, and stay flexible to accommodate local recommendations and weather conditions.
