Getting Around On Your Australia Vacation
When vacationing in Australia there are several ways of getting around country. The more populated (and popular) east coast will have more options. When planning an Australia vacation package, look for the options mentioned below to connect you between the various destinations in your itinerary.
Traveling via bus is probably the most popular and least expensive way of traveling Australia. In the major cities like Sydney or Melbourne you can take advantage of the motorcoach tours that can take you around key points of interest. You can travel to pretty much every part of the continent on Australia’s comprehensive network of bus lines. Greyhound is the national bus line with service across the country, and there are a number of regional carriers that operate in specific parts of Australia. There are also what are known as backpacker buses which are actually bus tours, most of which allow travelers to get on and off when needed and are usually a less expensive bus option. You can pay per trip or get a bus pass.
If you want the freedom to go wherever you choose, including off-road, then the self-drive option is your best bet. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for off-road excursions into the Outback. Be sure to get good insurance coverage and be adequately equipped with water, a tow rope, a good first aid kit, and even a high-frequency radio transceiver for trips to the Outback. You can get to most anywhere in Australia, at least the major and coastal towns, on paved roads. Highway One goes around the entire continent.
Because of the distance between cities, flying is a recommended form of transportation to save time on your vacation. There are a few national domestic carriers that fly to major destinations across he country as well as regional carriers focusing on specific routes. Qantas, it’s “budget” subsidiary Jetstar, and Virgin Blue are the main domestic carriers. Be sure to also consider transportation to and from your accommodations.
Typically Australia vacation packages with a multi-city itinerary include domestic airfare and/or motorcoach travel between destinations – as well as hotel transfers – in the package price, but not always, so be sure to check the inclusions with your travel agent. It’s best to plan and book your flights and car rentals ahead of time if you know you’ll be doing so. Whatever your itinerary includes, you’re sure to find the right form of transportation that will make your vacation down under a great one.
