So if you’re planning a trip to Australia in 2023 we’ve got a few tips and pieces of advice to help make everything a bit smoother for you, especially if you’re heading to Australia soon!

Planning A Trip To Australia In 2023? Our Top Tips!

1) Pre book your main tours (especially if you’re travelling in high season)

The biggest issue many travellers are having at the moment (espeically if you’ve travelling within the next few months) is the fact a lot of tours are booking out weeks in advance.

This is especially true for Fraser Island tours and Whitsunday Sailing tours as they have limited departures per week.

In fact we’re recommending booking them in at least 4-6 weeks in advance where possible – so don’t expect to turn up in Rainbow Beach or Airlie Beach and jump on a trip in the next few days!

Day trips are still a bit more flexible, but getting them locked in at least a week in advance is certainly going to make everything a lot smoother for you.

2) Have a realistic budget

One of the biggest mistakes we’re seeing people making at the moment with their planning is expecting to do everything on a shoestring. Unfortunately Australia isn’t as cheap to travel as spots like South East Asia and prices for the 2023 season are certainly not the cheapest they’ve ever been either.

So don’t expect to smash out all the main bucket list ticks on the East Coast, including a private room for a month for $2,000 – it just won’t happen!

As a guide we recommend around $4,000 for a month long East Coast trip – which will include dorm accomodation, most of your meals, bus pass, and the top tours.

3) Research your route

Another big mistake people have is not checking out where all the trips and destinations are and ending up with a really muddled route.

Generally speaking if you can start or finish in Cairns, Sydney or Melbourne things will run the smoothest as it’s a nice continuous trip up or down the coast between those spots.

You can link together some other route with internal flights, but a little bit of research on Google Maps can make the flow of your trip much nicer.

4) Consider a working holiday visa

Want to really make the most of your time in Australia and top up your travel funds along the way?

Why not come over on a working holiday visa?

You’ll then have up to 24 months to stay, play and enjoy Australia whilst being able to get a job along the way too. So whether you want to work in a cafe, become a dive instructor or maybe even gain some work experience for your chosen career, it’s a great option to look into.

And our Working Holiday Visa Welcome Packages will help kickstart your trip too.

5) Try not to rush

And alongside the working holiday visa option, is the advice that if you can help it don’t try and rush your trip.

You’ll have a much more enjoyable experience spending 4-6 weeks in Australia than trying to pack it into 2 weeks, where you’ll spend most of your time on buses between locations rather than soaking up everything Australia is famous for!

We get that some people can’t have the time off or have the budget for a longer trip (which is why we’ve put together an epic 2 week Australia itinerary) but honestly the longer you have, the better the experience!

6) Chat to our travel experts (we’re here to help!)

We might be a little bias, but we reckon one of the best things you can do is chat to the team here at RTW Backpackers!

We’ve helped thousands of travellers make the most of their Aussie adventures and we’re here to give you honest, unbiased advice. We know, because we’ve travelled the East Coast heaps of time testing out the best tours and accomodation.

Unlike some big travel companies we’re not driven by commission levels or sales targets – we just want you to have an epic trip!

…and the most important thing – Enjoy Yourself!

Yup, the most important thing you can do is make sure you enjoy your trip. Australia is a stunning country, filled with incredible destinations and experiences, so make sure you do it your way and do all the things you’re heading down under to see and do!

The post Planning A Trip To Australia In 2023? Our Top Tips! appeared first on RTW Backpackers.

And the new Greyhound Working Holidayer Bus Pass makes things even easier!

So what makes the Working Holidayer super flexible?

Well, whilst most Greyhound Bus Passes are limited by the time frame of the pass, the Working Holidayer offers 30 days of travel within a 3 month time period – making it ideal for those on a working holiday visa who want to stop off en route and top up their travel funds.

Not only that but it comes bundles with $200 worth of travel vouchers for a range of Queensland travel experiences too!

So what are the key features of the Working Holidayer?

• 30 Days Travel in 3-months with a $200 discount code to use on Queensland tours and experiences
• An exclusive pass product available only to Working Holiday Visa Holders
• One way travel from Melbourne, Canberra, or Sydney to Brisbane.
• Unlimited travel on Greyhound Australia services in Queensland with a choice of 111 different destinations with our services covering over 6,000 kilometres within the state (that’s roughly the equivalent of three return trips between London and Berlin)
• The 30 Days of travel are non-consecutive i.e. they can be used at any point within the three months
• 24/7 access to book a seat on a coach in real time
• Perfect for those that like to plan, but also those that like to take each day as it comes
• No cost to change dates or destinations, with no limit on the amount of changes that can be made

So if you’re heading to Australia on the Working Holiday Visa and want the most flexible way to travel along the East Coast the Working Holidayer is a great choice, espeically when paired up with our East Coast Essential Tours Package!

Click here to book your Greyhound Working Holidayer

The post Introducing The Greyhound Working Holidayer appeared first on RTW Backpackers.

Obviously the biggest draw is the world famous Whitsunday Islands, but there’s plenty of other incredible things to do during your stay in Airlie Beach – here are 16 of our favourites…

The Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach, Australia | 16 Top Activities

Scenic Flight Over Heart Reef

Price: AUD 265

This flight over the coral formations is an astonishing thing to do during your stay in Airlie Beach. A highlight is a heart-shaped reef best seen from a helicopter or seaplane window. You’ll see numerous white-sand beaches and coral formations while travelling over the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef.

Limited to only five passengers, a flight over Heart Reef is an intimate experience you won’t soon forget.

Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef

Price: AUD 279

A scenic cruise past the Whitsundays archipelago takes you 39 nautical miles offshore from Airlie Beach for a fantastic diving experience next to the Great Barrier Reef. The technicolour coral and diverse marine life remind us of the beautiful world beneath the ocean surface. Plus, your fare contributes to the protection of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Don your snorkel and mask and explore the Great Barrier Reef during a group trip. If you prefer scuba diving, you can arrange to spend a longer time beneath the surface.

Go Skydiving

Price: AUD 319

If you have an affinity for adrenaline and extreme sports, you may feel like skydiving in Airlie Beach. The tandem skydives take place from an altitude of 15,000ft and reach speeds of up to 220 kilometres per hour. You’ll maintain freefall for 60 seconds before spending 5-7 minutes making your way to a safe landing. You’ll have a unique view of the land below during this time.

The instructors are qualified, and the experience is incredibly safe. You have nothing to worry about, despite what you may feel before jumping from a moving plane.

Visit Hill Inlet Lookout

Location: Northern end of Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, Australia

Price: AUD 197

Whitehaven Beach has picturesque white sands and calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming. The Hill Inlet Lookout gives you a lovely vantage point from which to admire the shades of blue at this beautiful beach. It is located on Whitsundays Islands and is only accessible by boat and a short 1.3km return hike.

This is one of the most beautiful things to do from Airlie Beach, and thanks to the changing tide, the patterns in the water change daily. Keep an eye out for goannas, and remember to stick to the paths.

Jump on an Overnight Sailing Adventure

Price: AUD 975

A handful of commercial and private charters are available for an exhilarating overnight sailing adventure. You can visit Whitsunday Island and Hill Inlet Lookout during two full days spent on the water. The Whitsunday Getaway is a standout catamaran offering overnight adventures with four private cabins and en suite loos. 

Spending two days snorkelling, exploring, and living at sea is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Chill by the Lagoon Swimming Pool

Price: Free

The Airlie Beach Lagoon is a great swimming pool to cool off in after a walk along the boardwalk. When the ocean is rough or the jellyfish are present in the water, this can be the best place to swim in Airlie Beach.

The pool is 4,300 sqm and has shaded areas nearby, perfect for a lazy day at the oceanside.

Walk on the White Sands of Whitehaven Beach

Price: AUD 125

The sand on Whitehaven Beach is so fine you’ll hear it squeak beneath your feet. It is, however, more interesting as the sand here consists of 98% silica (quartz) and is the reason for the beach’s bright white colour.

Stroll along this seven-kilometre long beach while sinking your feet into the sand and walking through the warm water along the shore. You can reach Whitehaven Beach via ferries, yachts, and power boats that offer day trips from Airlie Beach.

Set Off On A Jetski Safari

Price: AUD 113

A two-hour jet ski experience from Airlie Beach will leave your adrenaline pumping and your diary filled with stories of the coral and marine life. This safari takes you past coves and beaches as you follow your guide to Whitsundays Island. 

While moving across the water surface, you’ll get glimpses of the turtles, whales, and dugongs that call the area home. 

Stroll the Bicentennial Walkway

Price: Free

Stroll along the Bicentennial Walkway, which runs 3.9 km along the coastline and the wharf. It is a comfortable setting in which to exercise, as demonstrated by the many locals who use this path. As mentioned above, it leads to the Airlie Beach lagoon, the perfect place to cool off.

Hike to Honeyeater Lookout

Price: Free

The Honeyeater lookout is a scenic highlight of an 8km round trip from Airlie Beach. While the hike is moderate, it does have steep sections and takes 3 hours. Fortunately, the impressive views towards the harbour make it worth the effort. 

As with all outdoor activities, packing the right gear and water is essential. Remember to check the weather prediction to ensure you hike in pleasant conditions. While sticking to the path, keep an eye out for kookaburras, ospreys, and herons.

Whitsunday Great Walk in Conway National Park

Price: Free on foot

The Whitsunday Great Walk is a hiking trail called the Conway Circuit, which covers 27 km from Airlie Beach to the Forestry Road car park inside the Conway National Park. The park extends south from Airlie Beach and offers camping, hikes, mountain biking, and fishing.

Staying in a campervan or tent here is a tranquil experience. The area is the birthplace of the Birri-Gubba Nation, who are the traditional custodians of the land. When visiting, it is important to act respectfully by keeping this area’s cultural and ecological significance in mind.

The outstanding natural diversity is visible in the variety of plant and animal life present. If you are a lucky twitcher, you can tick off two of Australia’s mound-building birds, the Australian brush-turkey and the Orange-footed scrubfowl.

Lions Airlie Beach Markets

Price: Free

This community market is the ideal thing to do in Airlie Beach on a Saturday morning. Starting from 7 am, the food stalls and local craftspeople set up shop along the Airlie Esplanade.

The market is a great place to meet with friends for a coffee and a bite to eat. Things begin to wind down at midday, leaving you plenty of time to tackle other activities.

Private Tuk-Tuk Tour

Price: AUD 30

For a small fee, you can rest your feet while you are guided through Airlie Beach on this pedal-powered tour. The private nature of the tour means you can choose from a variety of options to suit your interests, including a tour focused on food or simply a sunset ride.

From the Port of Airlie to the Coral Sea Marina, your guide will share with you the best things to do in Airlie from a local’s perspective.

Take a Trike Tour of Airlie Beach

Price: AUD 55

You’ll be hard to miss while travelling through town on this custom trike. The shiny chrome, yellow paint, and deep rumble of the engine make this tour a stand-out experience. While cruising around Airlie Beach, your guide will impart knowledge of the area via a Bluetooth headset.

If you enjoyed your trike tour around Airlie Beach, consider the three-hour tour to Cedar Creek Falls in the Conway National Park.

Try Your Hand at Fishing

Price: AUD 165

Whether you are a seasoned angler or you simply want to cast a line to sink into your holiday spirit, Airlie Beach offers excellent areas for fishing. Heading out with a fishing guide will help you navigate where to go, what tackle to use, what bait to bring, and the recreational fishing rules.

While it is possible to bring your rod to attempt fishing from the beach, the added adventure of a boat trip makes a fishing charter worth it. You can expect to catch coral trout, mackerel, and queenfish. Best of all, you can have your catch of the day cooked for you at a local restaurant.

Hold on Tight for a Jet Boat Ride

Price: AUD 82

If you don’t mind getting wet, this 30-minute jet boat ride is an adrenaline-pumping way to spend a day in Airlie Beach. Performing 180s, 360s, drifts, and power stops, the captain ensures everyone on board is having bucket loads of fun.

You can expect humorous commentary on this tour as it is less formal. In addition, you’ll receive GoPro photos from the camera on the front of the boat. If you want to bring your camera, make sure it is waterproof. You can lock other belongings in a dry small storage box onboard.

The post The Best Things to Do in Airlie Beach | 16 Awesome Activities appeared first on RTW Backpackers.

After nearly 2 years of closed borders, Australia has been slowly opening up to international travel again – with the latest being select student and work visas.

But, in big news announced on 7th Feb, the Prime Minister announced that from 21st February 2022 the country will be relaxing entry requirements to welcome back travellers on all tourist visas again.

…which is obviously awesome news!

Entry Requirements

As you might expect though, there are some entry requirements for this reopening:

• Proof of vaccination
• Completed an Australian Health Declaration online (at least 72 hours prior to flying)
• Negative, pre departure COVID-19 test
• A valid visa

You can view the full details on entry requirements for Australia on the official immigration website here.

Where Is On Your Bucket List?

And of course, if you’re keen to head down under with the new announcement, the team at RTW Backpackers is here to help!

Whether you need advice on the best hostels, Fraser Island tours or buses passes, we can help piece together whatever you need to make your dream Australia trip come true!

And of course the bets place to start is our Customer East Coast Australia Planner – a few questions and we can do all the hard work for you!

We’re stoked to be welcoming you all back soon!

The post Australia To Welcome Back Tourists From Feb 21st! appeared first on RTW Backpackers.

And it isn’t quite as famous as its counterparts of Sydney and Melbourne, there is still plenty to keep you busy – so we’ve put together the best things to do in Brisbane for every budget.

The Best Things To Do in Brisbane | 10 Activities & Attractions For Every Budget

Go Sightseeing on a River Cruise 

Price: From AUD 33

There are many great ways to discover the east coast of Australia. If you’re in Brisbane, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the city on a river cruise. 

The Brisbane River runs right through the heart of the city, and a cruise down the river is the perfect way to see the city from a different angle. Along the way, you’ll pass many of the city’s landmarks that make up the Brisbane skyline, such as the Story Bridge. 

There are numerous cruises to choose from, like the 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise where you can learn more about Brisbane’s history and hop on and off to explore some of the city’s attractions. 

If you’re looking to enjoy a longer ride, some cruises serve a lavish high tea, lunch, or dinner. 

Hang Out in the South Bank Area 

Price: Various

Wheel of Brisbane: From AUD 19.95

The South Bank Area is the original site of the World Expo that was held in Brisbane in 1988. It is one of the most diverse areas in the city. Here you’ll find plazas and promenades lined with restaurants and excellent shops. 

South Bank is also one of the best areas to cool off on a hot Brisbane day. It’s home to Streets Beach, a man-made lagoon and beach area directly opposite the CBD. You can also take a leisurely stroll under the shade of many trees in the Epicurious Gardens. 

While you’re in South Bank, don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy a thrilling ride on the Wheel of Brisbane. This enormous ferris wheel soars above the city, and you’ll get a bird’s eye view over Brisbane.

Climb the Story Bridge 

Price: From AUD 99

Built during the Great Depression in the 1930s, the Story Bridge is one of Brisbane’s most iconic landmarks. After the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, the Story Bridge Climb is one of the most popular adrenaline activities in Australia. 

The Story Bridge Climb caters to people of all fitness levels who are 10 years of age and older. The thrilling two-hour climb takes you 80 metres above the Brisbane River. The reward for this nerve-wracking adventure is uninterrupted views of the city. 

Enjoy a Feast of Food at the Eat Street Northshore

Price: The entry fee is $5

If you’re looking to go on a culinary adventure around the world, then Eat Street is the perfect place to start. Just 15 minutes away from the Brisbane CBD, Eat Street has over 70 stalls, including five themed bars, shops, and small restaurants. 

Here you can try cuisine from around the world while enjoying live entertainment. You’ll also find unique food variations like Japanese pizza and a mac ‘n cheeseburger. Eat Street has something for everyone, even the fussiest of eaters. 

Stroll Around the Brisbane Botanic Gardens (Mount Coot-Tha)

Price: Free entry 

The Brisbane Botanic Gardens on Mount Coot-Tha is one of the top subtropical gardens in Queensland. It’s best known for its stunning Tropical Display Dome.

You can enjoy a guided tour of the gardens and learn about its history and the different tropical plants. Alternatively, you can also take a self-guided tour and discover the beautiful Japanese garden and one of the largest collections of Australian rainforest trees in the world. 

If you’re looking to cool off, you can enjoy a picnic under a shady tree or grab a bit at the Botanic Gardens Cafe. 

Visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Price: From AUD 49

Have you ever wanted to cuddle with Australia’s cutest animal? Well, then be sure to visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. 

Here you’ll be able to enjoy interactive programmes with these adorable furry creatures and also learn more about them and their environment. While koalas are the star of the show, you’ll also see other Australian animals like dingos, wallabies, and wombats. 

Learn About Local Aboriginal Culture at the Spirits of the Red Sands

Price: From AUD 99

If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about Australia’s indigenous Aboriginal people, you can do so through the exciting Spirit of the Red Sands storytelling experience. 

The Spirits of the Red Sands was launched in 2017 and is the first-of-its-kind experience that gives visitors insight into the history and resilience of the Aboriginal people and the Queensland region. 

You’ll be able to meet the elders of one of the Aboriginal tribes, enjoy a welcoming ceremony, and participate in local customs. If you book an evening experience, you’ll get to enjoy a meal and theatre performance. 

Visit the Museums & Galleries in the Cultural Centre

Price: Free admission

Situated on the banks of the Brisbane River, the Cultural Centre in South Bank is an excellent place for a fun-filled day out. Here you’ll find an extensive collection of museums, galleries and performance venues. 

You can check out the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, where you’ll find world-class exhibitions and displays and even free film screenings. You’ll also find the State Library of Queensland and Queensland Museum & Science Centre. 

If you have time, you can enjoy a comedy show, ballet or opera show at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. 

Enjoy a Day Trip to Moreton Island 

Price: From AUD 129

Moreton Island is a short 75-minute ferry ride away from Brisbane and is the perfect place to escape the busy city vibe. 

Here you can lay around on the pristine white sand beaches or snorkel and dive around the island’s crystal clear waters. You can even feed dolphins at the Tangalooma Island Resort. 

Other activities that you can enjoy on the island include sea kayaking, quad biking and whale watching during the short whale season. 

Discover Brisbane on a Bicycle 

Price: From $69 

If you’re looking for a scenic way to explore Brisbane, you might enjoy a guided bicycle tour through the city. Discover some of the city’s local gems with a guided, leisurely paced bike tour. 

You’ll get to discover the city from a local’s perspective, learn about Brisbane’s history, and discover some of its cultural attractions. For a truly memorable experience, book the Twilight Tour. 

You’ll get to see the city come to life as the sun sets over the Brisbane River and watch as the city’s skyline starts to take shape. 

The post The Best Things To Do in Brisbane For Every Budget appeared first on RTW Backpackers.

So what are the key things you need to know and should you start booking your flights?!

Australia Reopens 1st Dec 2021!

In a press conference on 21st Nov 2021, Prime Minister Scott Morrison outlined the next steps on Australia border policy as the country hit a 85% vaccination rate – which included the news travellers all over the world had been waiting for – Australia will be reopening for tourism!

Time To Start Planning!

With travel opening up, nows the perfect time to start planning your working holiday visa in Australia and our team are here to help you out.

Check out our huge range of trips, tours and packages – including our ever popular Melbourne Working Holiday Package and Sydney Working Holiday Visa Package, both of which include everything you need to kickstart your time down under!

We look forward to welcoming to Australia soon!

The post Australia Reopens 1st Dec 2021! appeared first on RTW Backpackers.

With so many awesome places to explore and heaps of activities to choose from, narrowing it down to our favourite 15 was a tough call – but here are our highlight for any NSW travel plans…

The Best Things to Do in NSW, Australia | Top 15 Activities & Attractions

1. Visit the Sydney Opera House 

Location: Sydney

The Sydney Opera House is undoubtedly one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world. When planning your Sydney Itinerary, be sure not to miss out on the opportunity to visit this iconic performance theatre. 

You could stand outside and take pictures by the Opera House’s steps. But, if you really want to experience the magic of this building, then taking a tour of it is the best option. The Sydney Opera House offers several daily tours that allow visitors to explore the impressive interior and exterior of the building. 

Price: Tours for adults range between $43 AUD and $295 AUD per person. On the other hand, tours for children start at $21 AUD per person. 

2. Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Location: Sydney

Seeking an adrenaline rush?  Well, then climbing up the 134 meters (440ft) Sydney Harbour Bridge might just be the thing for you. 

Since 1998, Bridge Climb has been taking visitors on tours of this marvellous bridge and has guided over four million visitors across its arches. Some of these include big-name celebrities like Prince Harry and Oprah Winfrey.

There are various climbing tours available lasting between 2.5 to 3.5 hours and are available at various times of the day. Be prepared to experience 360-degree panoramic views of Sydney. 

Price: Tours start at $304 AUD for adults and $149 AUD for children. 

3.Go Skydiving 

Locations: Byron Bay, Hunter Valley, New Castle, Sydney, Wollongong. 

If you’ve ever wanted to conquer your fear of heights, then there’s no better way of doing it than by leaping out of a plane 15000ft in the air.  

Skydive Australia offers some pretty exhilarating skydiving adventures across some of the best places in Australia. These include the likes of Sydney, New Castle, Wollongong, Hunter Valley, and Byron Bay. 

From the lush vineyards of Hunter Valley to the incredible coastline of Byron Bay, the landscapes of NSW do not disappoint. So, gear up, take a deep breath and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime. 

Price: Trips start at $269 AUD per person. 

4.Blue Mountains Trip

Location: From Sydney

The Blue Mountains are a rugged region located 50km (31 miles) west of Sydney. This area is known for its dramatic scenery made up of canyons, waterfalls, rainforests, and valleys. 

The region is home to the Blue Mountains National Park, near the town of Katoomba. The park has amazing panoramic views of Jamison Valley, an abundance of hiking trails, and the Three Sisters (a sacred Aboriginal site). 

You can explore this area on your own with a self-drive tour and stop at the many lookout points and small towns to take in the breathtaking sceneries. 

If you’re looking for a guided tour of the Blue Mountains, you can check out The Coast Warriors Tour. This tour visits some of the area’s top sites like Echo Point and Wentworth Falls.  

Price: The Coast Warriors tour is $99 AUD per person.

5. Learn to Surf 

Location: Bondi Beach, Byron Bay, Crescent Head, Seven Mile Beach, Yamba.

If you’ve ever dreamt of learning how to surf, then NSW is one of the most exciting places to learn. Some of the world’s best surfing spots can be found here, including the world-famous Bondi Beach.

Just one day is sufficient for you to learn the basics of surfing. But if you’re looking to perfect your wave riding skills, you can choose a multiday experience with Spot X Surf Camp that will take you from Sydney to Byron Bay. 

Price: One Day surfing lessons start at $69 AUD, and longer surf camps start at $815 AUD.

6.Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk 

Location: Byron Bay

On Australia’s most easterly point sits the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse, offering extensive views across the Pacific Ocean. While there are many activities that you can enjoy at the lighthouse, nothing beats the Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk. 

This 3.7km hike leads you through the lush rainforest and across clifftops and a pristine beach to reach the lighthouse. If you prefer a more leisurely walk, the hiking trail can be accessed at various points and walked in shorter sections. 

Price: Free. However, an $8 AUD per hour parking fee has to be paid at the Cape Byron Conservation Area or Palm Valley car park. 

7.Visit Nimbin

Location: Nimbin, day trip from Byron Bay

Nimbin is a colourful village located in the northern areas of NSW, 70km (43 miles) west of Byron Bay. It is known around the world as Australia’s hippie and alternative lifestyle capital and has also been recognised for its environmental initiatives. 

If you’re looking for a place to relax, then Nimbin is the perfect place to rejuvenate and become one with nature as it’s located near five national parks.  

8. Visit a Koala Sanctuary 

Location: One Mile, West Pennant Hills, Port Macquire, and more.

If you’ve ever wanted to get up close and personal with one of the cutest animals in the world, then be sure to head over to a koala sanctuary. There are several sanctuaries in NSW that provide a unique opportunity to see these indigenous Australian animals in their natural habitat. 

One sanctuary you can visit is the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, which takes care of sick, injured, and orphaned koalas and supports their rehabilitation and conservation in the wild. 

Price: $25 AUD for adults, $14 AUD for children (children under three enter for free), and $82 AUD for a family pass (two adults and two children). 

9. Bondi to Coogee Beach Walk

Location: Sydney

One of the best things to do in Sydney is the Bondi to Coogee Beach Walk, a 6km walk along the city’s eastern suburbs. 

The walk features stunning views, beaches, parks, cliffs, rock pools, and much more. In total, there are 15 places of interest where you can stop to admire your surroundings or learn about Sydney’s history. 

You can also stop for a swim at one of the beaches or grab a bite at one of the nearby cafes or restaurants. 

Price: Free, but it will cost you $2.49 AUD to purchase the Bondi to Coogee Map and about $8 AUD per hour for parking. 

10. Explore Lord Howe Island

Location: 700km northeast of Sydney

If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping to a beautiful private island, then consider taking a trip to Lord Howe Island, which sits just off the coast of NSW in the Tasman Sea. 

The Island is every nature lover’s dream with an abundance of colourful marine life, lush rainforests, and tropical birds. 

There’s plenty to do on the Island too, including snorkelling in the pristine waters of the Lord Howe Island Marine Park, kayaking, and hiking.

Price: The only way to reach Lord Howe is by a two-hour flight from Sydney, which will cost you about $481 AUD for a one-way ticket with QantasLink. 

11. Relax in Yamba

Location: Yamba, NSW

Yamba is a coastal town located at the mouth of the Clarence River on the north coast of NSW. It’s the ideal place for a family holiday at any time of the year, and there’s something to do for everyone. 

From shopping at the farmer’s market to tanning on the beach shores and indulging in fresh seafood, there’s plenty of activities to do in Yamba. 

Price: This Stay and Play in Yamba holiday package starts at $150 AUD.

12.Road Trip up the East Coast

A road trip up the east coast of NSW is always a firm favourite. With over 2000km of coastline, an abundance of national parks, and the coolest cities and towns, you’ll never be bored. Spend your days experiencing thrilling and adventurous activities like surfing, hiking, wine tasting, and even skydiving.

No matter what you’re into, you’ll most certainly find something to do in this friendly state. 

Price: Check out this guide on how much to budget for Australia to get a good idea of how much you can expect to spend. 

13. Scuba Diving 

Location: Julian Rocks, Seal Rocks, Jervis Bay, and more. 

NSW has several great diving locations such as the Solitary Islands Marine Park, where you can jump in and discover the area’s marine life. Be sure to keep an eye out for turtles, rays, leopard sharks, and Wobbegongs. 

Price: Scuba diving tours usually start at around $215 AUD. 

14.Wine Tasting in Hunter Valley

Location: 120km (75 miles) north of Sydney

If you’re looking to get a taste of some of the best Australian wine, then look no further than Hunter Valley. The valley is Australia’s oldest wine-growing region dating back to the early 1800s. 

Hunter Valley is known for producing Semillon and Shiraz and boasts more than 150 cellars. Most of them have restaurants where you can enjoy exquisite cuisine expertly paired with local wines. 

Price: This Hunter Valley wine tasting tour starts at $85 AUD per person. 

15. Whale Watching

Location: Sydney and Byron Bay

Whale watching season in Australia lasts from June to November with tours running daily. 

Along with spotting whales, you’ll also get to see dolphins and other marine life. On some tours, you’ll also get a hydrophone to listen to the whales. If you’re lucking enough, you might even catch a Humpback whale breaching.

There are 38 vantage points around Sydney where you can spot these majestic animals. The Cape Byron Lighthouse in Byron Bay is a popular spot to catch a glimpse of them. 

Price: Whale-watching tours start at $69 AUD. 

What’s top of your best things to do in NSW?

What are you most looking forward to?

The post The Best Things to Do in NSW | Top 15 Activities & Attractions appeared first on RTW Backpackers.

So if you’re travelling around Australia in a campervan or car here’s your guide to the best Byron Bay campsites for all styles and budgets…

The Best Byron Bay Campsites

Quick overview

Our top pick = Glen Villa Resort

Cheapest option = Arts Factory Lodge and Belongil Fields

Closest to the beach = Suffolk Beachfront Holiday Park or Reflections Holiday Park

Best Location = First Sun Holiday Park

Best for backpackers = Arts Factory Lodge

Biggest range of facilities = Discovery Parks Byron Bay

Broken Head Campsite

Distance from Byron town centre = 8.6km

Camping Pitches from: $34

Powered Campervan pitches from: $39

The furthest campsite from Byron Bay town itself, Broken Head is about a 15 minute drive out of town, but I’ve included it on the list as it’s an awesome option for those who dont want to be based in the Bay, or another great stop just before you hit Byron Bay

Situated on the stunning beach of Broken Head you’ll be a short stroll from the sand and waves here – which include both a beach break and point break.

It’s a beautiful place to chill out for a few nights, soak up the nature of Broken Head Nature Reserve as well as enjoying some scenic coastal walks and beach time!

Facilities Include; 

• Undercover BBQ areas
• Laundry
• Small on site shop
• Amenities block

Suffolk Beachfront Holiday Park

Distance from Byron town centre = 6.1km

Camping Pitches from: $40

Powered Campervan pitches from: $40

Situated in the suburb of Suffolk Park, this Byron Bay campsite puts you about a 10 min drive from the centre of town. However Suffolk Park itself has all the facilities you’ll need – including bars, shops and a few restaurants.

Suffolk Beachfront Holiday Park is exactly that – beachfront! With it’s own private access to the beach you can enjoy some epic time on the sand and for surfers there are plenty of fun peaks to enjoy across this long stretch of coast.

In fact you can head out and walk right all the way to Broken Head or left all the way up to Tallows and the Byron Lighthouse!

Another great option for those who dont want to be directly in Byron Bay but still want all the beach vibes.

Facilities include:

• Modern camp kitchen
• Free BBQs
• Undercover dining area
• Laundry
• Free wifi
• Snack shop
• Bodyboard hire

Red Devils Camping

Distance from Byron town centre = 3.3km

Camping Pitches from: $

Powered Campervan pitches from: $

Just a 5 minute drive into the centre of town Red Devil Campground it actually part of the rugby club.

To be honest out of all the options on the list value wise this isn’t the best as facilities are limited and the setup is pretty basic.

For a few extra dollars a night you can get a much better setup at a Bryon Bay campsite in the centre of town!

Facilities include;

• Amenities block

Ingenia Holiday Park

Distance from Byron town centre = 3.8km

Camping Pitches from: $30

Powered Campervan pitches from: $30

A great value option packed with facilities, Ingenia Holiday Park is just a 5 minute drive into the centre of Byron Bay and even has a public bus stop right opposite it so you can easily explore everything Byron has to offer.

The campsite itself boats everything from a large swimming pool to kids playground, wellness centre and even a skate ramp – making it ideal for everyone from families to backpackers.

A short 5 minute walk from the main campsite (which offers both powered and unpowered sites and even en suite pitches) is Tallow Beach – miles of sand to explore and as you would expect from the area heaps of fun surf spots too.

Facilities include:

• Swimming pool
• On site cafe/restaurant
• Wellness centre
• Pool table
• Moden camp kitchens
• Bike hire
• Kids playground
• Skate ramp
• Basketball court
• TV room
• Free wifi

Discovery Parks Byron Bay

Distance from Byron town centre = 2.5km

Camping Pitches from: $22

Powered Campervan pitches from: $37

A favourite amongst a range of travellers – from families to backpackers – Discovery Parks Byron Bay comes with one of the biggest rage of facilities of all the Byron Bay campsites on the list.

Obviously the big draw for travellers with families is the waterpark and swimming pool facilities, and to be honest anywhere with a pool t escape the Aussie heat is going to be a good option!

It’s slightly out of town (roughly the same distance as Red Devils and Ingenia is on the other side of Byron) but there’s a nice chilled cycle path and walkway, with Belongil Beach only a short walk from the campsite as well.

Facilities include:

• BBQs
• Kids facilities
• Bouncing pillow
• Swimming pool
• Waterpark
• Wifi
• Camp kitchen
• Restaurant

Glenn Villa Resort – **Our Top Pick**

Distance from Byron town centre = 350m

Camping Pitches from: $35

Powered Campervan pitches from: $45

Out of all the Byron Bay campsites this is the one we’d personally recommend.

Situated slap in the centre of town it’s about 100m from the central bus stop, restaurants, bars and shops – with the beach just a 5-10 minute walk depending on which Byron Bay beach you want to chill at.

It’s also one of the most chilled campsites we’ve stayed in Byron too and despite the central location you’ll get a solid nights sleep here.

Also make sure you ask about the weekly rates which work out great value.

Facilities include;

• Swimming pool
• Camp kitchen
• BBQs
• Free wifi
• Laundry

First Sun Holiday Park

Distance from Byron town centre = 50m

Camping Pitches from: $50

Powered Campervan pitches from: $58

If you’re looking for the campsite closest to the action you then First Sun Holiday Park wins out for most central location, it back onto one of the main strips in Byron with restaurants, shops and bars, as well as just being around the corner from the Byron Beach Hotel – one of the most popular bars and music venues in town.

But as an added sweetener it also has direct access to the beach too – with The Wreck just in front.

As with most of the campsites in town you’ll be within easy reach of numerous surf spots, but the punchy lefts and rights of the Wreck (named after the iconic shipwreck which juts out of the water) is the closest.

It’s not the cheapest, but you are paying for that location.

Facilities include;

• Free wifi
• 2 camp kitchens
• BBQs
• Snack shop
• Night security

Reflections Holiday Park

Distance from Byron town centre = 1km

Camping Pitches from: $60

Powered Campervan pitches from: $68

Although this is one of the most expensive options when it comes to Byron Bay campsites the location is pretty spot on – and the site runs straight onto Clarkes Beach.

Surfers will be stoked as they’re in walking distances of the Pass – a world famous right hand point break, as well as numerous beach breaks along Main Beach, The Wreck and of course out front at Clarkes too.

You’ll be an easy 5 minute walk into the main town of Byron – either via the beach or pathways – so an array of bars, restaurants and shops are easily within reach.

Facilities include:

• BBQs
• Camp kitchen
• Kids facilities
• Laundry
• Wifi

Belongil Fields

Distance from Byron town centre = 2.7km

Camping Pitches from: $30

Powered Campervan pitches from: $35

The original festival site of Bluesfest and Splendour in the Grass, Belongil Fields is just opposite Discovery Parks and is one of the most budget friendly options, especially for those travelling solo as there are discounts for single pitch occupancy.

To be honest the price reflect the facilities and it’s pretty basic overall, so you get what you pay for, but worth mentioning for those who are looking to base themselves in Byron but want to keep accommodation costs down.

Facilities include;

• Camp kitchen
• BBQs (paid)
• Laundry

Arts Factory Lodge

Distance from Byron town centre = 1km

Camping Pitches from: $18

Campervan pitches from: $18

Ok so this is a slight curveball in the Byron Bay campsites list as the Arts Factory is actually a hostel not a campsite!

That being said though they do have a campground within the hostel grounds and those with camper vans can rent a parking space to stay the night – which also gives you access to all the hostel facilities too.

Nicknamed “The Jungle” the in-house campground is definitely a bit rough around the edges with some long term residents pimping out their setup with full double beds, gazebos and more!

A great option for backpackers wanting to be social but also on a bit of a budget – spaces are limited (max 40) so it’s best to call and book in advance – also they do cap the length of stay during peak periods so keep that in mind too.

Facilities include;

• Swimming pool
• Tour desk
• Bike hire
• Surfboard hire
• Kitchen
• Fire pit
• Brewery and bar
• Cinema

Have you stayed at any Byron Bay campsites?

Which would you recommend?

The post The Best Byron Bay Campsites (For All Budgets) appeared first on RTW Backpackers.