Australia is a big, beautiful country with lots to see and do. You might think it’s too expensive to explore as a student, but don’t worry! This student travel guide will show you how to travel around Australia without spending too much money. We’ll share some easy low-cost travel tips to help you have fun adventures, whether you’re in primary school or high school. You’ll learn how to see amazing places like sunny beaches and the Outback without breaking your piggy bank. Ready to start your Aussie adventure?

Top Budget-Friendly Travel Tips for Students

Travelling around Australia on a budget doesn’t have to be boring! With some smart planning and a bit of creativity, you can save money and still have an amazing adventure. Here’s how:

Save Money with Student Discounts

Always ask, “Do you have a student discount?” Your student ID can get you cheaper prices on buses, trains, museums, and even some cafes. Big companies like Qantas (that’s an airline) and Greyhound (they run buses) often give students special deals. Don’t be shy – ask about discounts everywhere you go!

Try Car Sharing for Road Trips

Student road trips are a great way to see Australia. However owning a car can be expensive. Instead, you can use something called Popcar. It’s like borrowing a car only when you need it. You don’t have to worry about paying for fuel or fixing the car – Popcar takes care of that. This can save you a lot of money on your budget-friendly student trips.

Plan Your Trip Early

Booking things like flights and hotels early can save you money. Use websites that help students find cheap flights, like StudentUniverse. You can also check out Skyscanner or Google Flights to compare prices.

Stay in Cheap Places

Instead of expensive hotels, try staying in hostels. These are like shared houses for travellers and often have free breakfast. You can find them on a website called Hostelworld. Camping or staying with locals through Couchsurfing are other cheap options.

Travel with Friends

Going on a trip with your friends? Share the costs! You can split the price of rooms, food, and activities. This way, everyone pays less. Plus, it’s more fun to travel with your mates!

Make Your Own Food

Eating out all the time can cost a lot. Try making your own meals sometimes. You can buy fresh food at local markets and make simple, yummy meals while you’re travelling.

Find Free Things to Do

There are lots of amazing things to do in Australia that don’t cost anything. You can walk along beautiful beaches, explore national parks, or check out cool art galleries for free. For example, the walk from Bondi to Coogee Beach in Sydney is totally free and super beautiful!

Remember, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to have an awesome time in Australia. With these tips, you can have amazing adventures and still keep your savings safe. 

Suggested Destinations for Students on a Budget 

Not sure where to go? Here are some of the top affordable destinations every student traveller should consider: 

Great Ocean Road, Victoria

The Great Ocean Road is an iconic Australian road trip destination that offers stunning coastal views and natural wonders without breaking the bank. It stretches 243 km along the southeastern coast of Australia. Key attractions include the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Arch, and Bells Beach, a famous surfing spot. Most of these sights are free to visit. 

For budget-friendly activities, you can go hiking in Great Otway National Park, spot wild koalas in Kennett River, or visit lighthouses like Split Point Lighthouse. To save money on transport, use Popcar’s car-sharing service instead of renting a vehicle. For accommodation, stay in hostels or campsites along the route to keep costs down. The best time to visit is from March to May or September to November for mild weather and fewer crowds.

Byron Bay, New South Wales

Byron Bay is a laid-back coastal town perfect for budget-conscious students looking for a mix of beach life and alternative culture. It’s located about 165 km south of Brisbane. 

The town has several beautiful beaches like Main Beach, Wategos Beach, and Tallow Beach, all free to visit. For budget-friendly activities, you can watch the sunrise at Cape Byron Lighthouse, visit the Byron Bay Community Market held every Sunday, take a free walking tour of the town, or learn to surf with affordable group lessons. 

To save money on food, shop at local farmers’ markets for cheap, fresh produce. Byron Bay has plenty of backpacker hostels for affordable accommodation. To get around, you can rent a bicycle or use the local bus service.

Blue Mountains, New South Wales

The Blue Mountains offer affordable outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery just a short trip from Sydney, about 50 km west. Key attractions include the Three Sisters rock formation, which is free to visit, Scenic World (which offers student discounts), and Wentworth Falls. 

For budget-friendly activities, you can explore numerous free hiking trails like the Grand Canyon Walk or National Pass, visit Jenolan Caves with affordable guided tours, or enjoy a picnic at the free Leura Cascades area. 

To save on transport, take the train from Sydney Central to Katoomba (about 2 hours), which is much cheaper than organised tours. For accommodation, stay in Katoomba for affordable hostels and guesthouses. The best time to visit is from March to May or September to November for ideal hiking weather.

Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and offers budget options for experiencing this natural wonder. The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system. To save money, choose snorkelling over scuba diving for a cheaper experience. Look for student discounts on day trips to the reef, and consider visiting Green Island or Fitzroy Island for more affordable reef experiences. 

In Cairns itself, you can enjoy free activities like swimming at the Esplanade Lagoon, visiting Rusty’s Markets for cheap local produce, or walking in the Daintree Rainforest. Cairns has numerous backpacker hostels for budget accommodation. To save money, book reef tours in advance and look for package deals. The best time to visit is from June to October for the dry season and good visibility for snorkelling.

Remember to always ask for student discounts, use public transport where possible, and look for free walking tours in each destination to make the most of your budget.

How Popcar Can Help Students Travel Smart 

When it comes to travel, having the right transportation can make or break your plans. This is where Popcar comes in. 

Popcar offers an affordable and flexible alternative to owning or renting a vehicle. With access to eco-friendly shared cars across Australia, students can take weekend trips or cross-country adventures on their terms. Key benefits for students include: 

  • Affordability: No need to worry about fuel, insurance, or maintenance costs. 
  • Flexibility: Choose vehicles on demand so you only pay for what you need. 
  • Eco-Friendly Travel: Popcar uses hybrid and fuel-efficient vehicles, making it a sustainable choice for eco-conscious travellers. 

Whether it’s a quick weekend trip to the beach or a week-long road trip, Popcar is the convenient option that lets you explore Australia without the stress of upfront expenses. 

Start Exploring Australia on a Budget Today 

Exploring Australia on a student budget is more than possible—it’s a rewarding challenge! By prioritising student discounts, choosing cost-effective travel options like Popcar, and exploring free attractions, you can experience the very best Australia has to offer without overspending. What’s holding you back? Be smart, plan ahead, and start creating those unforgettable memories. Join the Popcar community today and set off on your next adventure! 

Share