Are you searching for practical information ahead of your travels to Australia? It may not be the most exciting part of planning your trip, but it is still important. That is why we have provided some information to help get you started below.
Of course, if you have any doubts or questions regarding any of the information you read below, we are more than happy to help you and answer any and all questions you may have.
Contact our travel specialists when and where it suits you. Evenings or weekends. At our London office, over the phone, or online. Yes, we are available to answer questions and discuss your plans where and when it suits you.
The first thing to check is that you have a valid passport with a validity of more than six months. If your passport is due to expire while you are abroad, please make sure you renew it before starting the visa process. For more information on passports, please click here.
Children are also required to have a valid passport, and the same requirements apply.
Unless you are an Australian or New Zealand citizen, you will need a visa to enter the country. As a British passport holder, you will need to apply for the FREE eVisitor 651 visa, this can be done online, and it will be linked to your passport automatically. This allows you to enter Australia multiple times over 12 months and stay for a maximum of three months at a time.
For more information on entry requirements for British nationals, please click here. Please remember to print all the email attachments and carry them with you while travelling across Australia.
The official language in Australia is Australian English, so you will have no trouble communicating with the locals, who love sharing a story or three! Ask your hosts to teach you some Aussie slang words, too. There are definitely a few quirky phrases to learn!
The Australian currency is the Australian dollar - AUD. Cards such as Mastercard, VISA, American Express, UnionPay, and JCB are widely accepted in Australia. VISA or Mastercard can generally be used everywhere that credit cards are accepted.
Carrying some cash with you is always advised, especially if you are visiting more remote areas. You can exchange money in the UK before departing, in places like the Post Office or Currency Exchange Counters in supermarkets, or once you land in Australia. Just remember to check the exchange rates, as ATM transactions at the airport are generally more expensive.
The emergency number for the police, ambulance, and fire services is 000. And 112 is the secondary number which can be dialled from a mobile phone.
If you hold a valid British driving licence, you can drive in Australia for up to 12 months as a tourist. Driving on the same side of the road as the UK, you will find it easier to get your bearings and drive around from place to place.
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Before travelling from the UK to Australia, ensure you're prepared. You will need to make sure that your inoculations are up to date while also checking if any vaccinations are required to enter the county. We advise you to consult your GP or click here for the latest advice.
With Australia's weather being much warmer than that of the UK, and the sun much stronger, it is important that you protect yourself with high-SPF sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing and by staying hydrated - tap water is generally safe to drink throughout Australia.
If you have specific health needs, carry enough prescription medication with proper documentation, as regulations on certain substances are strict in Australia. It is important that you check these before entering the country.
While Australia's overall crime rate is low, it's important for visitors to take standard precautions like securing personal belongings and staying alert, particularly in tourist-heavy areas.
The country's diverse wildlife, including potentially dangerous snakes, spiders, jellyfish, and sharks, calls for careful attention to local advice and warning signs, especially when hiking or swimming.
Be mindful of strong ocean currents, such as rips, and only swim at patrolled beaches marked by red and yellow flags. Additionally, bushfires pose a seasonal risk in rural and suburban regions during warmer months, so keeping informed about local weather and fire bans is crucial for safety.
Your travel specialist is waiting to share their local knowledge and answer any questions you may have.
Embarking on a long-haul flight from the UK to Australia requires careful preparation to ensure a comfortable journey.
Adjust your sleep schedule a few days before departure to minimise jet lag and organise all travel documents, including your passport, visa, and any necessary insurance information, in an accessible place in your carry-on luggage.
When preparing for the flight itself, pack strategically by including the essentials such as:
Australia
Getting to Australia from the UK is a breeze, with flights taking less than a day - you'll get there before you know it.
A stopover presents another unique opportunity to explore, discover, and create unforgettable memories on your adventure of a lifetime.
Australia is divided into three time zones: Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST), Australian Central Standard Time (ACST), and Australian Western Standard Time (AWST).
Therefore, the time difference between the UK and Australia depends on which time zone you are in.
We suggest that you add the regions you will visit on the world clock on your smartphone. This will hopefully save any confusion when you arrive.
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.
020 36 95 95 69
