Practical travel information for Australia
Planning a holiday to Australia? This guide provides all the essential practical information you need for a smooth and enjoyable journey, from visa requirements and transportation tips to health and safety advice, we've got you covered.
Key travel tips at a glance
Here’s a quick overview of the things you need to know before you travel to Australia:
Passport: A valid passport and visa are required for entry
Currency: Australian dollar (AUD), cards widely accepted
Language: English
Driving: On the left side of the road
Flights: Domestic flights connect different regions
Mobile coverage: Excellent in cities, limited in remote areas
Power: Type I adapter required
Weather: Opposite seasons to Europe
Visa and entry requirements
Passports
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. If it’s due to expire, renew it before applying for a visa. Children must also have a valid passport, with the same requirements applying to minors.
For more details on passport validity, click here.
Australia visas
If you're not an Australian or New Zealand citizen, you'll need a visa to enter Australia.
British passport holders can apply for the free eVisitor 651 visa. This online visa is automatically linked to your passport and allows multiple entries over 12 months, with stays of up to three months at a time. Every traveller must be in possession of their own visa, including children.
We recommend submitting your visa application as early as possible, but a minimum of four weeks before departure. It's also a good idea to print your visa approval and any related documents to carry with you while travelling within Australia.
For more details on entry requirements for British nationals, click here.
Health and safety
Australia is generally a very safe country, and its people are famously welcoming. As always, use the same common sense you would at home. Cities and towns are typically safe even after dark, though in some areas it’s more convenient to take a taxi if you’re out on your own at night. And don’t hesitate to ask your hosts for local tips, they’ll be more than happy to help.
Vaccinations and medication
Before travelling to Australia, ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date and check if any are required for entry. Consult your GP or check the latest advice here.
If you take prescription medication, carry enough for the duration of your trip, along with proper documentation.
Healthcare and insurance
Australia has excellent healthcare, but travel insurance is still essential. Ensure your policy includes medical treatment, emergencies, and evacuation, so you’re fully protected throughout your trip.
Sun safety
The sun in Australia is much stronger than in Europe, even on cloudy days. Reapply sunscreen often, and wear a hat and sunglasses for extra protection.
Wildlife safety
Be mindful of Australia's unique wildlife, including snakes, spiders, jellyfish, and sharks. Always follow local advice and pay attention to warning signs.
Swimming and ocean safety
Swim at patrolled beaches marked with red and yellow flags, and be cautious of strong currents and rip tides.
Emergency services
For police, ambulance, or fire, dial 000. The international emergency number 112 also redirects to 000.
Money and payments
The local currency in Australia is the Australian Dollar (AUD). You can exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices, or withdraw AUD from ATMs. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, particularly for smaller purchases or in remote areas.
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. In casual pubs or rural areas, tipping is not expected. In urban areas with full table service, a tip of 10-15% is typical. Some restaurants may automatically add a service charge in the bill.
Transportation in Australia
Despite its vast size, getting around Australia is relatively easy. The country is well-connected by domestic flights, trains, buses, taxis, and car rentals.
Public transportation is efficient in urban areas, while renting a car offers flexibility for exploring rural regions.
Driving in Australia
Driving is on the left in Australia, and most road laws feel familiar to UK visitors. Distances and speeds are measured in kilometres, so keep an eye on limits and follow local rules
British licence holders can drive for up to 12 months as tourists. Rental cars are widely available at airports and major cities, with insurance typically included.
Urban roads are generally well maintained, while rural routes can vary. Check your journey in advance, particularly if you’re heading somewhere remote.
For a smooth, stress-free trip, our experienced travel specialists can arrange your rental and insurance, plus share their recommendations for scenic stops along the way.
Public transport
Public transport in Australia is generally reliable and easy to use. Major cities have well-connected bus, tram and metro networks, while smaller towns are served by buses and regional trains.
For longer journeys between cities, domestic flights are often the quickest option, though trains and buses offer more scenic routes.
When you plan your holiday with TravelEssence, we arrange all the transport along your route, from car rental to any flights or trains needed for longer distances, so everything connects seamlessly.
Connectivity and mobile use
Australia offers widespread mobile and internet coverage, especially in urban areas. Local SIM cards with affordable data and calling plans can be purchased at airports and local shops. Alternatively, eSIMs provide a convenient way to access mobile data for compatible devices.
Wi-Fi is also widely available in cafes, hotels, and public spaces.
Australia uses Type I power outlets, so be sure to bring the appropriate adapter to charge your devices.
Best time to visit Australia
The best time to visit Australia depends on the type of experiences you want and the regions you plan to explore. For pleasant weather and fewer crowds, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are ideal.
For a more detailed look at when to go, check out our dedicated Best time to travel to Australia page.
Climate in Australia
Due to its vastness, Australia has diverse climates, from tropical and subtropical to temperate zones:
Tropical climate: Found in the far north, with a wet season (November–April) and a hot, dry season (May–October).
Subtropical climate: Cities like Brisbane enjoy hot, humid summers (November–March) and mild, sunny winters (June–August).
Desert climate: Central Australia is arid, with very hot summers and surprisingly cold winters.
Mediterranean climate: In the south, winters are mild and rainy, while summers are warm and sunny.
Temperate climate: Southern coastal regions experience moderate rainfall, warm/hot summers, and cool/cold winters.
Time differences in Australia
Australia spans three time zones: AWST (Western Standard Time) in the west, ACST (Central Standard Time) in the middle, and AEST (Eastern Standard Time) in the east.
The time difference between the UK and Australia ranges from +7 to +11 hours, depending on the region and time of year. For example, Perth is typically 8 hours ahead, Adelaide 9.5 hours ahead, and Sydney 10 hours ahead.
Be sure to factor this in when planning your journey.