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Home » Oceania » Australia » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Australia | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Australia | Destinations & Tips for 2024

There is nothing that can make you feel as liberated and independent as traveling on your own. With dynamic cities, a remote outback, beautiful coastlines, and a bunch of cool backpackers to meet, Australia is one of the best countries to visit solo.

Travelling solo in Australia is super safe, it’s easy to get around, and there are plenty of adventures to be had. No wonder tons of gap year tourists and solo females choose to explore this massive island country. The only downside is that it isn’t the most affordable place to visit, but put in perspective, travelling Australia alone is well worth the price.

With an active outdoor lifestyle and a big beach scene, visiting Australia solo gives you the space for personal growth and development. Hostels make it easy to meet and make friends – and just about everyone speaks English here. Locals are friendly and funny, so you’ll never have an issue finding your way around!

If you are looking to travel the land down under on your own, here are my top recommendations of where to go, what to do, and how to prepare for your trip.

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5 Things to Do in Australia When Traveling Solo

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With incredible natural scenery, including mountains, barrier reefs, and deserts, Australia embodies an outdoorsy and active culture. Whether you’re backpacking the East Coast or hitting up Western Australia, is a haven for solo travellers. Check out these five activities you can do on your own in Australia…

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1. Island Hop Through the Whitsunday Islands

If there is one natural attraction worthwhile visiting on your Australian solo travel adventure, it’s the Great Barrier Reef coastline. With 74 sandbanks and tropical islands, there’s no need to choose just one island in the Whitsundays to visit. 

Instead, joining a group island-hopping trip along this picturesque coastline is an incredible way to see this Great Barrier Reef region. (If you’re looking to snorkel the reef itself, Cairns is a better option).

Since most islands are protected as a national park, you must visit with a planned tour . From luxury yachts to paddle boats, there are ways to explore the Whitsundays for all budgets. 

2. Experience Australian History in the Red Center

The Red Center is the heart of old Australia. Set right in the middle of the country, this is an impressive landscape of deserts, mountains, rocky gorges, and some of the most sacred Aboriginal sites. The region isn’t overpopulated with tourists, purely because it’s challenging to get to.

Uluru and Kara Tjuta are two exceptional locations in the Outback worth visiting to gain a deeper understanding of the Aboriginal culture and heritage. Here, you can watch the colours of the rock change at sunset while listening to local string melodies on the didgeridoo.

3. Hang out at the hostels 

Look, solo travel in Australia is just as much about kicking back and enjoying the simple life with new amazing travel buddies as it is about seeing world-famous attractions. All my most fond memories here involve nothing more than sharing a box of goon and a couple of joints with strangers who become dear, dear mates.

4. Taste the Best Wine of Barossa Valley, Adelaide

Famous for being one of the world’s most significant wine-producing regions, Barossa Valley near Adelaide is home to over 150 wineries, as well as many of the world’s longest-continuously produced wine variants.

Aside from great wine, the region is one of the best Australian solo travel destinations , resembling a Tuscan dreamscape. Naturally, one of the best things to do here is to taste the famous wines, dine at exceptional establishments, and stroll through the lush vineyards. This is a great activity to enjoy solo, but also an easy way to meet other travellers and locals.

5. Take A Bike Tour Through the Mornington Peninsula, Melbourne

Located just south of the busy city of Melbourne, The Mornington Peninsula is a suburban landscape that blends seaside charm with lush vineyards. You’ll find golden beaches, vineyard-lined hills, and exciting forests here, with each landscape offering its own choice of adventure and activity. 

One of the best ways to experience the region is to join a bike tour through the peninsula. There are plenty of tours to join, stopping off at well-known restaurants, hot springs, and gorgeous beaches.

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Sometimes the best company is your own. Whether you prefer your own space or want to meet like-minded travellers, here is our pick of the best places to travel solo in Australia:

After visiting Melbourne , I can safely say it is my favourite city in Australia. With a considerable amount of buzzing neighbourhoods to explore, Melbourne is also one of Australia’s most popular cities. It has been called one of the most livable cities in the world, so it certainly is worth a visit to see what the hype is about. 

Melbourne is best known for its high-end food scene, Australia’s best coffee, and incredible art exhibitions and museums. It’s also the fashion capital of Australia, with streets lined with trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife.

You can’t say you’ve visited Melbourne without driving the Great Ocean Road. Expect an Aussie road trip packed with incredible scenery along this scenic drive, passing the famous surf spots of Torquay and Bells Beach, kangaroos hopping across golf courses, and the Twelve Apostle rock formations. Aside from renting a car, this activity won’t cost you a cent!

Selina Central Melbourne is an excellent example of Selina’s good reputation. Centrally located with a communal kitchen, bar, and co-working space, it’s the ideal budget city accommodation.

You just have to visit Byron Bay – Australia’s premier beach town. What was once a sleepy coastal town blossomed into a hippie centre in the ’60s. Today, it’s home to an eclectic mix of high-fashion socialites and laid-back surfers, with a patchwork offering of trendy bars, low-key restaurants, yoga studios, and incredible beaches.

The best thing to do when travelling solo in Australia’s Byron Bay is to enjoy time on the beach, typically packed with locals and visitors on any given day. When the sun sets, make your way to one of the town’s vibrant restaurants and enjoy a drink with new friends at a rooftop bar.

The town is by no means cheap, but there are ways to save money. Staying in budget accommodation is one of them. Naturally, the most affordable activities here involve spending time outdoors. Start by hiking the Cape Byron Walking Track and cycle to The Farm in Byron Bay.

The colourful community welcomes newcomers, and staying in a hostel here is the best way to find an in with the in-crowds. The Surf House is Byron Bays’ premier hostel. Just a few minutes from the Main Beach, the hostel has a rooftop bar and unique shared rooms perfect for solo travellers in Australia.

The heart of Australia’s active lifestyle, Cairns is a friendly town known for its incredible natural beauty. Set between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest (two listed UNESCO World Heritage Sites), backpack up to Cairns for the gateway of Tropical North Queensland with a subtropical climate. 

Again, the best (and most affordable) things to do here involve spending your time in nature. Rent some snorkelling gear and explore the underwater world of Ciarns, or take the more adrenaline-pumping alternative and jump 50 meters off Australia’s only bunjy jump. If you don’t want to do the jump, the platform alone offers some of the best views of the surrounding region.

The Daintree Rainforest, just an hour’s drive away, can be visited on a group tour or even when travelling Australia solo, and it is an exciting activity to uncover more about the ancient rainforest cultures.

As the day draws to a close, there’s no better place to grab a bite than at the Cairns Night Market, which has a lively atmosphere perfect for meeting locals and other travellers.

For the perfect combination of a relaxed and social atmosphere, Travellers Oasis Backpackers offers comfortable, safe, and clean accommodation for budget solo travellers.

Although the capital of Tasmania, Hobart is a small and historic city surrounded by nature. Best of all, this city is an incredible location for solo travellers, with tons of activities that are safe and fun to do alone.

Some of the best things to do in Hobart include taking a tour of Bruny Island, where delicious chocolate and cheese meet spectacular wildlife. Visiting the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, watching a performance at the Salamanca Arts Center, or admiring an art exhibition at Mona are musts for culture vultures. If you want a quick intro to the city’s major attractions, hop on a hop-on-hop-off bus.

Open yourself up to a social event at the Cascades Brewery, Australia’s oldest operating craft brewery. You never know; you might just meet a new friend willing to summit nearby Mount Wellington with you.

In the historic village of Battery Point, Montacute Boutique Bunkhouse is close to restaurants and markets. The locally owned hostel has a large shared kitchen, living room, and laundry facilities.

Adelaide is an Australian solo traveller’s paradise for a few reasons. It’s easily accessible, with a compact city centre that makes it easy to explore on foot. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy and a bunch of cool people to meet in Adelaide’s great hostels .

When it comes to natural scenery, Adelaide deserves an accolade. The capital city of South Australia is perfectly-positioned just a short drive from the iconic Outback. While possible to do alone, I recommend visiting the outback with a tour group or a new group of friends. This way, you can access off-the-beaten-track hikes and trails and explore million-year-old mountains more confidently.

Adelaide is also known for its stretched-out coastline, overflowing with abundant sealife that feeds the country’s high-end seafood scene. The city is also the host of many sporting events and festivals. If you’ve always wanted to lay eyes on a koala bear, plenty of these cuddly creatures call the Adelaide Hills home.

Adelaide Central YHA is one of the best backpackers in the city. With newly renovated rooms, free Wi-Fi, and other modern facilities, it offers safe, clean, and friendly budget accommodations for solo travellers.

• Hostelworld: The best app for searching and booking Australian hostels and backpackers
• Booking.com and Airbnb : Great for finding hotel and bed and breakfast accommodation
• PackPoint : A helpful app to help you make sure you pack all the necessities for your trip
• Couchsurfer : Suitable for budget travellers but not recommended for solo female travellers in Australia
• Viator and Get Your Guide : Useful for browsing and booking tours and day trips
• Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble : Designed to meet and socialize with others in your vicinity
• Trail Wallet : A great way to stick to your budget when travelling in an expensive country
• Backpackr : A social media app designed for meeting travellers nearby
• WhatsApp Messenger : The leading messaging app used by most locals in Australia
• Holafly : An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card

It’s also a good idea to join local Facebook groups designed for travellers or ex-pats in Australia. Groups like ‘ Melbourne Meetups,’ ‘Traveling Tasmania, ’ and ‘ Australia Backpackers’ are some of the most popular.

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Holafly is a digital SIM card that works smoothly like an app — you simply pick your plan, download it, and voilà!

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Unlike many other destinations, your most significant safety concerns as a tourist in Australia are the unfriendly wild animals, as opposed to crime. That said, any big city poses a risk of petty theft and unwelcome crime, so vigilance is essential. 

Watch your belongings at all times, especially in crowded places or where you might be distracted. When you go out at night, always keep an eye on your drinks, especially if you are a solo female traveller in Australia. Although spiked drinks are uncommon here, you can never rule out risk.

I always share my live location with family and friends back home, as well as with a new friend I trust in the city I am visiting. I also recommend staying in a female-only dorm if you are travelling solo as a female-identifying person.

Steer clear of unfriendly animals in the outback while hiking or at the beach. There are a few dangerous animals to keep an eye out for. I’m talking about box jellyfish, snakes, spiders, sharks, crocodiles, and even octopuses.

Lastly, use all the sun protection . The sun is powerful in the land down under, and sunstroke can put a real damper on a great adventure.

• Staying in hostels is the easiest way to make friends in any new place. Many of the best hostels in Australia even have bars and organize daily group activities. The perfect combo between a villa and a hostel, Stoke Beach House is one of Sydney’s premier hostels .
• Plan some booked adventures or tours . Even if group tours aren’t your thing, I advise booking a few activities in advance. Not only are these a great way to meet other travellers, but they offer a different perspective of a location. This Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Course is an excellent example of a tour that could be booked out fast!
• Take advantage of freebies . Travelling solo in Australia can get expensive – fast. Check social media groups to find free events in the area you visit. Most big cities offer free cultural days where you can visit different museums, castles, and historic homes at no cost.
• Keep some flexibility in your itinerary . While booking some pre-planned activities is a good idea, keeping your plans flexible is essential. When you meet the right people, you’ll want to chop and change your itinerary and the places you visit.
• Plan your own trip – it’s your Australian backpacking adventure . Template itineraries found on the internet can be helpful for research, but I recommend that you plan your own trip according to the activities you most enjoy.
• Use public transport . Australian cities have some of the world’s most efficient and affordable public transport systems. Take advantage of this service and save costs on Uber and taxis, which are a sure way to blow through your budget super fast.
• Be social , but appreciate spending time on your own. Travelling alone can be lonely, but it is also so rewarding. Be friendly with others in your hostel and tour groups, but also remember to be satisfied spending time alone.
• One of the best tips for solo travel in Australia is to visit during the right time of year . September to November and March through May are the best times to visit the country. These months fall between seasons, meaning you’ll skip the crowds while taking advantage of lower prices before tourist season begins.
• Get good travel insurance . I can’t stress this enough. Although the country is safe regarding crime, Australia is home to its fair share of dangerous animals. Make sure you have insurance that covers things like snake bites and jellyfish stings.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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• Use social media : Facebook groups advertise different events you can attend to meet new friends. Dating apps are another way to meet people. Most apps can be switched from dating to friendship, making it easy to find people with similar interests within your vicinity.
• Stay in a hostel : When choosing where to stay in Australia , opting for a hostel is one of the best ways to meet new people. Especially if you stay in a shared room, it’s hard not to make friends when sharing accommodation with others. 
• Attend cultural events : Besides tours, joining other cultural activities, including cooking courses and cultural immersion experiences, is another excellent way to meet others while travelling solo.
• Keep an open mind and be confident and friendly : Make sure you keep an open mind about meeting new people. Be available when others need advice or directions or want photos taken, and remain approachable by being friendly and welcoming.
• Join group tours : Whether you join a tour hosted by your hostel or an independent tour guide, group tours and activities are one of the best ways to meet others while abroad . Chances are those joining the same trip will have similar interests to yours!
• Join a gym or sports team : Short-term memberships at sports clubs, gyms, or co-working spaces are an excellent way for solo travellers in Australia to meet other travellers.
• Join a pub crawl : Often organized by hostels or youth organizations, pub crawls (or other social events) make it easy to visit new areas of the city while meeting new friends in a casual social environment.
• Volunteer : Volunteering in Australia with a local organization is not only a great way to give back, but it is also great for meeting others with similar humanitarian interests as your own.

Australia was an absolutely mental place to visit alone. It was the first solo trip I took that kick-started my deep passion for self-exploration through global exploration.

The country is an outdoor lovers’ paradise, and there is nothing more liberating and character-building than travelling solo. Put these two together, and we have ourselves a winning location for solo travellers. With an incredible outdoorsy scene, incredible natural beauty, dynamic and safe cities, and plenty of budget accommodations available, solo travellers in Australia could spend their days learning to surf in Byron Bay and evenings dancing the night away with new friends. 

With cultural influences from Aborinonals and British settlers, as well as other island nations, Australia has a unique history and cultural scene. The country is most famous for its natural wonders and wide open spaces, including ‘The Outback’ and ‘The Bush.’ But it’s also famous for its metropolitan centres, with four mega-cities; Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.

Massive and varied, the country truly has something to offer every traveller. Whether you enjoy spending your time lounging on beautiful beaches, tasting incredible food, or adventuring into the unknown Outback, you’re guaranteed to have an exciting time travelling solo in Australia.

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The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide to Australia (2024)

A solo trip to Australia’s vast landscape of energetic cities, wild terrain, and wavy shores is a dream idea for most people! The country is known for being a bucket list destination, and many of those who turn their Aussie travel dreams into reality are solo backpackers, looking for an ultimate adventure.

I’ve had the pleasure of spending extensive time in Australia thanks to a working holiday visa which allowed me to stay in the country for 2 years. During this time, I travelled A LOT. Australia is the world’s sixth-largest country and I wanted to explore as much as possible before my time ran out. Locations imprinted in my memory the most from my trip down under include Melbourne, Kakadu National Park, Magnetic Island, and Byron Bay.

Exploring various countries as a solo female traveller has boosted my confidence and belief in myself tenfold. From the moment I step foot on a plane, I know I’m about to make incredible memories, learn about a new culture, and immerse myself in an unfamiliar environment meeting incredible people along the way. My solo Australia trip allowed me to fly to the other side of the world, trusting my adaptability and travel experience to guide me through each day. 

Planning a solo trip to Australia? Here’s where you can find:

Everything you need to know before a solo trip to australia, how to get to australia as a solo traveller, tips for finding cheap flights to australia.

• Do I Need A Visa For My Trip To Australia?

How Do I Book A Solo Trip To Australia?

How to book hostels and hotels in australia, sim cards in australia.

• Travel Insurance For A Solo Trip To Australia

Should I Go To Australia On My First Solo Trip?

How much does a solo trip to australia cost, is australia safe for a solo female traveller.

• Best Places For Solo Travel In Australia
• Best Places To Visit In Australia
• Best Road Trips In Australia
• How Do I Make Friends When Solo Travelling Australia?

My biggest tip before an Aussie solo trip is to be prepared! I don’t mean to have every second of your travels mapped out, but at least have a good idea of the must-visit places on your list, a rough daily budget, insurance, and accommodation arranged for some of your days. Being prepared will help you feel more relaxed when the plane touches down in Australia and you know what you’re getting up to on your first day. 

Coming from the UK, Australia is FAR to travel to! This typically means expensive flights and at least one layover, but trust me when I say the travel faff of reaching the continent is worth it. Australia has over 600 airports, so you can only imagine the number of possible flights available to reach the country and the potential layover destinations.

There’s no secret; flying to Australia can cost a lot, with the biggest expense of an Aussie trip being the transport to and from the country. The flights are also known for being notoriously long. This is something I like, as I find it gives me time to sit back on the plane, journal about my imminent adventure, and visualise my solo trip coming to life. To cut back on costs, it’s worth looking into routes with more than one layover. In some ways, layovers seem inconvenient, but if you have several hours to wait, layovers are a bonus for a spontaneous adventure!

The ability to find cheap flights to Australia is a game-changer, cutting down initial costs as much as possible so you have the maximum budget left for in-country experiences. After extensive solo travelling over the last few years, I’ve compiled my tips for finding cheap flights so you can cut down travel costs and reach Australia with plenty of dollars still to hand.

Be Flexible 

I know what it’s like when you have a goal destination, arrival and departure dates, and exact ideas about what you’ll do when you reach your desired country of travel. This isn’t the wrong way to travel, as different things work for different people! Over time, however, I’ve found remaining as flexible as possible to be a great way of keeping costs down. Being open to various destinations and travel dates will help comparison sites give you the best range of deals. 

Fly Off-Peak

Travelling during holiday periods is a big no for me as I’m usually exploring on a budget, and these are the times companies hike their prices up. Instead of journeying across the water at popular times, I always travel off-peak, and usually early in the morning as long as I’ve got a coffee in hand! Early morning flights tend to be cheaper and generally quieter than busier times of the day, so it’s worth setting your alarm clock and saving some pennies. 

Compare Prices

I always turn to Skyscanner when I’m looking for flights, as they take the hard work out of price comparison for me. The website is easy to use and details the cheapest flights along with airlines, layover details, and total flight time. Flight comparison is a must when you’re looking to keep costs down. You’d be surprised how much prices can fluctuate depending on the airline and company you book through!

I always think it’s wise to pack light as it means there’s less to worry about during your travels and you can have a little space to bring some special items home with you. It’s also a good move for avoiding surprise baggage fees which are commonplace with budget airlines. Weigh your bag before travelling to the airport and double-check the size you can bring on the plane without additional charges. 

Sign Up For Flight Deals

Along with searching for flight prices on comparison websites, you can also find amazing deals by signing up to websites and online memberships to access more deals. Collecting air miles is something I would highly recommend to anyone travelling regularly. The miles you accumulate while travelling can be used towards a flight in the future; maybe even on your solo trip to Australia.

Do I Need A Visa For My Trip To Australia?  

It doesn’t matter if your goal is to spend a few days, weeks, or months in Australia; it’s essential to obtain a valid Australian visa. This will allow you to enter and stay in the country legally, whether you’re going for a short holiday, planning on working abroad, or studying. For my trip, I needed to work to afford everything I wanted to do in Australia, so I applied for a working holiday visa. This gave me 12 months to explore the country, and I could then apply for a second working holiday visa once my 12 months were coming to an end.

If you don’t plan on working during your solo travel Australia adventure, you can apply for an eVisitor visa which allows up to 3 months travel. Unlike the working holiday visa which costs a few hundred Aus dollars, the eVisitor visa is free and allows you to visit Australia as much as you like during 12 months, as long as each visit is less than 3 months long.

Working Holiday Visa in Australia

Australia is one of the most popular locations for Brits to head to on a working holiday visa. I actually spent 2 years living Down Under and loved it – what an experience! It allowed me to travel Australia extensively while experiencing work and travel alongside each other and I highly recommend for anyone who is 18-35 and considering backpacking or a move abroad.  Finding a job in Australia on a working holiday visa isn’t hard as there are so many different roles available! Think of everything from fruit picking and waitressing to sales jobs and temporary admin positions. My biggest tip would be to head into potential workplaces such as hotels, hostels, and bars, and hand in your CV. You can read more of my backpacker tips for finding jobs in Australia in my guide here . 

For those who would like extra help with arranging their working holiday visa in Australia , why not book a package with Global Work and Travel? They’ll help you with flights, travel insurance, accommodation, visa applications and even job hunting. Plus you can get support 24- hours a day Mon-Fri from your own Trip Coordinator and make friends before you land using their app.

There are many ways to book a solo trip to Australia, and whether you’re planning to map out your entire solo trip, create a group trip to meet other solo travellers, or only want to book a flight and first night’s accommodation, there’s an Aus adventure to suit you! 

Entire Planned Trip:

Booking an entire planned trip is feasible, but I find planning every aspect of a trip to be quite stressful when I arrive, as I’m always checking the time to make sure I’m not late for an activity or hotel check-in. Suppose this is your preferred way to travel. In that case, it’s worth looking at comparison websites that pair flights and hotels together as these can save money and time searching for booking availability.

A Group Trip:

Booking a group trip with close friends is a great way to kick off your Australian adventure, and if you all head in different directions and meet up in a few months, just think how exciting it will be to tell each other everything you’ve gotten up to! If you’re taking a solo trip to Australia, joining a group tour is a great way to meet other backpackers and solo adventurers where you can make friends, share tips, and potentially split costs on excursions, in-country transport, and hostels.

Flight and 1 Night Accommodation:

Simply booking a flight and your first night’s accommodation is an exciting way to kick off your trip. I always think it’s wise to have at least your first night’s accommodation planned, as after a long flight you’ll likely want to freshen up and get some rest before heading out into the city. 

Booking hostels and hotels in Australia has never been easier thanks to websites such as booking.com and Hostelworld . These websites display accommodation within the parameters set by the user, such as price, rating, location, etc. This means you can source the best accommodation at the most affordable price, offering exactly what you want! I particularly pay attention to the reviews from other travellers about the hotel or hostel as I find this gives me more of an accurate indication of what it will be like when I arrive. 

>> Read  24 Ways To Get Cheap Hotel Deals

Currency, Language, Plugs, and the Best Ways To Get Around Australia When You’re There

Australia’s currency is the Australian Dollar, so it’s best to have some cash to hand, along with a travel card or similar so you can spend money hassle-free. As for plugs, at first Australian plugs may look the same as UK plugs, but they aren’t! Australia uses plug type 1 which has 2 flat pins and 1 ground pin in a close triangle shape. 

The national language of Australia is English, but the country is also home to 250 Indigenous languages including 800 dialects . With English being the predominant language spoken, it makes things easier for English speakers to navigate around the country. It’s vital to still be aware of the Indigenous population in Australia, and recognise their history and importance in the country, especially when travelling to areas such as the Northern Territory. 

I’ve already touched upon how big Australia is, and to give you a better indication, the best way to get around is by flying! Travelling from city to city or throughout the various regions and territories can entail miles, and the quickest way to reach destinations is by flying. To cover shorter distances, you can jump on a bus, train, tram, or even rent a car and go on an epic road trip. Be sure to check out my girls’ packing guide for Asia and Australia so you bring all the essentials along and pack light for your solo Australia trip.

Stay connected during your solo trip to Australia with an eSIM from Airalo – they’re my favourite company and offer digital data packs for over 200 countries worldwide. Save yourself the hassle of trying to find wifi everywhere you go and set it up before you fly so that when you land you have instant connection to mobile networks when you arrive. It’s a lifesaver when it comes to navigating to your hotel or hostel, or figuring out public transport when you’ve been travelling for two days. Pick up an Airalo eSIM data package for Australia and save yourself from getting caught out by expensive roaming fees.

What travel medical insurance do I need for a trip to Australia?

If you’re planning a trip to Australia, it’s likely you’ll be travelling for a month or more and naturally when you travel for longer, there is more opportunity to get sick or require medical attention. One of my teachers at school always preached “failing to prepare is preparing to fail” and I took it to heart so I never leave home without a good insurance policy which fits my specific needs for a trip. SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is a travel medical insurance that starts from just a few dollars a day and is one of the most affordable options on the market – perfect for you backpackers and long-term travellers! Three things I love about SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance:

• It takes 5 minutes to purchase and you’re still eligible if your trip has already started (great if you’re forgetful!)
• You’re covered for even the smallest of claims – $0 deductible
• It offers a pay-as-you-go subscription and you can cancel anytime

If you’re planning a multi-destination trip, SafetyWing Nomad Insurance also covers you in up to 180 countries worldwide. Although pricing is in $$$ – SafetyWing offers policies to travellers from all over (including the UK). So head to their website to find out more now and book insurance for your next trip. 

Best Travel Insurance For A Solo Trip To Australia 

Having travel insurance is something I didn’t always prioritise, but a decade of solo travel experience has taught me that being prepared for any situation is a good thing. I’ve tried and tested different insurance from various companies and found these three travel insurances to be the best options.

Safety Wing

There are a few key reasons why I trust Safety Wing for travel insurance while adventuring abroad. Safety Wing offers Nomad Insurance which is ideal for those exploring various destinations during a trip. Conveniently, travellers can sign up for this insurance either before setting off on their trip, or at any point while they are away, with coverage in over 180 countries. 

Find out more about Safety Wing

With 24-hour, 365-day emergency assistance, Outbacker Insurance understands the needs of travellers abroad, with coverage of 230 activities and sports, and instant online policy delivery, so there are no days or weeks spent waiting for an insurance letter in the post. Medical expenses are covered up to £15 million outside of the UK, which reassures travellers that they are in safe hands, with a reliable security blanket to fall on as and when needed.

Find out more about Outbacker insurance

World Nomads

The spectrum of coverage available with World Nomads Insurance is outstanding, ranging from baggage insurance and overseas medical, to coronavirus-related cover, pregnancy, travel accidents, and more. The scope of coverage and 24/7 support make World Nomads a great choice for any solo trip. There’s the option to also give a micro-donation to one of their chosen charities when you take out a plan, so you can help others while World Nomads helps you.

Find out more about World Nomads  

I’ve been travelling solo for nearly a decade and I stand by Australia as one of my favourite destinations to date. The continent’s land mass is simply EPIC, and it’s hard to describe until you’ve touched down. The diversity of culture, landscape, and cuisine across Australia makes it a wonderful place for solo travelling. 

Backpackers from all over the globe head to Australia seeking adventure, a hot climate, and to experience everything the country offers. You’ll undoubtedly stumble across other solo travellers in hostels, hotels, bars, and activity tours. This will make you feel less like you’re travelling solo and more like part of a wide community of people soul-searching just like you!

As the main language spoken is English, this makes it easy to explore during a solo trip to Australia, as English speakers can read road signs, speak with locals, and ask for help without dealing with a language barrier. This can be especially helpful if you lose your bearings when returning to your hostel, or want to find a tasty but affordable place to eat. You can find out more about my time in Australia by checking out my ultimate Australia travel guide with tips for all budgets .

After many years of solo female travelling, I’ve found flights and accommodation to take the biggest chunk out of my budget. For Australia, this is what I found to be most expensive, but I saved in other ways by using public transport, refraining from eating out too often and choosing budget accommodation such as shared hostel rooms. You can check out more of my top money-saving travel tips here .

1 Month in Australia:

This is an estimate for what one month in Australia can look like in terms of budget. This can vary greatly depending on location, time of travel, and the activities you choose to do. To help plan your trip, check out my ultimate budget guide for a month on the East Coast which will provide you with a better indication of the expenses you’ll be faced with when travelling down under.

Saving money while travelling doesn’t have to feel impossible, and with some small changes, you’d be surprised how much of your budget can remain intact for longer! Especially when planning a gap year , keeping costs down is often at the forefront of the mind, and when travelling to a destination such as Australia which is notorious for being on the pricey side, it’s easy to see why!

With nearly 10 years of solo female travelling experience, I’ve gained such confidence to keep adventuring around the globe. Safety is something I always prioritise when travelling, and something I’ve learned over time is to trust my gut above anything. As Australia is predominantly an English-speaking country, I found this helpful as I knew I could communicate with anyone if I needed help or advice. 

There are also so many backpackers flocking to experience a solo Australia travel adventure, and this means there’s a high chance of meeting other travellers during your trip. In terms of safety, I find this comforting as travelling in a group brings a layer of security and comfort that’s not always there when travelling alone. 

Regardless of the location I’m adventuring to, there are a few things I always do to make sure I’m putting my safety first. You can read these tips in my resources for solo female travel and be sure to bookmark the tap to keep the details fresh in your mind before you set off for your trip.

Where Are The Best Places For Solo Travel In Australia?

Narrowing down the best places for solo travel in Australia is tough, but a few locations stick in my mind as though I were there yesterday. You can find such different vibes depending on where you travel to in Australia. Cities such as Melbourne are bursting with life and provide the perfect setting for socialising, while the East Coast is the ideal place for crossing paths with other backpackers.

The city of Sydney doesn’t need an introduction. It’s an iconic location in Australia, and home to some of the country’s well-known landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, and Sydney Harbour Bridge. There is so much to see and do in the city, it also provides the perfect foundation for finding work if you have a working holiday visa. Sydney is ideal for meeting other backpackers also in the area, and staying in one of the city’s popular hostels.

• Best Budget Hotel: The Ultimo Sydney
• Best Hostel: WakeUp Sydney
• Book activities in Sydney

Melbourne is the capital of the state of Victoria, and when I reflect back to my time in the city, I’m transported to the heart of the cultural capital, surrounded by independent bars, coffee shops, and excitement in the air. The city is a backpacker’s oasis, offering food stalls, vintage shops, and hostels to rest weary feet after a long day of discovering the city’s streets.

• Best Budget Hotel: The Victoria Hotel
• Best Hostel: Flinders Backpackers Melbourne
• Book activities in Melbourne

Cairns is a special place in Australia, home to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree and Wet Tropics Rainforest. If you’ve pictured scuba diving through clear waters and vibrant coral, Cairns will satisfy your imagination with its stunning natural beauty. The best way to enjoy Cairns is to venture through the city’s unique natural environment, invigorating all of the senses with the offerings of the rainforest.

• Best Budget Hotel: Oaks Cairns Hotel
• Best Hostel: Gilligan’s Backpacker Hotel & Resort Cairns
• Book activities in Cairns

East Coast 

All across Australia’s East Coast, you’ll find plenty to fill your days and meet backpackers along the way! There’s a variety of environments from sandy beaches and lively high streets to rainforests and dramatic landscapes. Taking part in activities is one of the best ways to get a feel for what the East Coast is all about, so get ready to have some fun and make memories!

• Best Budget Hotel: The Waterloo Bay Hotel, Brisbane
• Best Hostel: Summer House Backpackers, Brisbane
• Book activities in Brisbane
• Book activities in Whitsundays
• Book activities in Magnetic Island

Where Are The Best Places To Visit In Australia?

There are simply so many different places to travel and explore across Australia. From the epic pink lakes in Western Australia to the tranquil shores of the Gold Coast, you won’t be short of things to do! I loved visiting various locations in Australia, and I’ve picked a few that I feel are must-visits for a solo trip to Aus.

A visit to Melbourne isn’t complete without a drive down the Great Ocean Road. Expect to see the wild ocean in all its glory while you drive alongside rugged cliffs, with some of the most breathtaking scenery I’ve seen in my recent years travelling solo. Wilson’s Promontory National Park is also worthwhile for its abundance of beautiful trails and swimming opportunities in pristine clear waters.

• Best Budget Hotel: Mantra 100 Exhibition
• Best Hostel: Bev and Mick’s International Backpackers
• Book activities in Victoria

The East Coast is so full of sights and activities that I could have spent my whole visa time slowly travelling along it! Both Fraser Island and Magnetic Island are two standout locations for me as they both offer such diverse natural scenery; imagine clear lakes, enormous rainforests, and the everlasting sounds of wildlife. Byron Bay is a coastal town that’s also worth investing some time in as it’s such a bustling place of energy with plenty of travellers too! 

If you love to surf or would like to learn, look no further than Noosa. This surf-lovers destination is stunning and globally recognised for its vast beaches and impressive waves. With such proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, a trip to the Whitsundays has also got to be on your list for Australia. Think of everything from sailing and diving to snorkelling with underwater wildlife in some of the most breathtaking waters the world can offer.

• Best Budget Hotel: Glen River Resort, Byron Bay
• Best Hostel: Vali by Village, Byron Bay
• Book activities in Byron Bay

Northern Territory 

When I think back to exploring the Northern Territory, my mind instantly travels back to the Litchfield and Kakadu National Park. Magical cascading waterfalls, palm trees, and expansive wetlands make this park a wonder for the eyes and soul of anyone travelling through. 

• Best Budget Hotel: Desert Palms, Alice Springs
• Best Hostel: YHA Alice Springs
• Book activities in Alice Springs
• Book activities in Darwin

Western Australia  

The port city of Fremantle is the perfect location for a relaxed vibe, where you can sit back and enjoy treating yourself to dinner in a seafood eatery, heritage pub, or independent cafe. Save some of your budget for a couple of days in Fremantle where you can snag something special from a boutique to take home and remember your adventure. 

Ningaloo Reef is similar to the Great Barrier Reef, but it’s a far more affordable and accessible way of interacting with all the magic beneath the water. Snorkelling here is an unmissable opportunity to immerse yourself in some of the country’s wildest and most breathtaking scenery. Another hot spot in Western Australia, providing glistening golden sand and convenient amenities such as toilets and snack bars for an all-day visit.

• Hotel: Esplanade Hotel Fremantle
• Hostel: YHA Fremantle Prison
• Book activities in Western Australia

Manly Beach is one of Sydney’s iconic beaches, offering impressive surfing opportunities for those eager for an adrenaline rush! For a more relaxing, quieter trip, take a stroll along the Bondi to Coogee Walk. Explore the dramatic sights of Bondi Beach and the immediate coast for 6 km, basking in the sun and dreamy blue skies.

• Hotel: Park Regis City Centre
• Hostel: Nate’s Place Backpackers
• Book activities in New South Wales

Check out these awesome activities:

What are the best road trips in australia.

It’s hard to fathom the grand size of Australia until you’re standing in a city, planning a route to several destinations and realise just how long it takes to get there! This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, however, as a slow road trip around Aus gives you the time to take in every bit of scenery and chat with newfound friends along the way. 

Taking a road trip along the coast can start and end anywhere, but I think there’s no better route for a few days on the road than Sydney to Brisbane. The total driving time is around 10 – 11 hours, so this is a perfect split across 3 days, stopping along the way to explore Newcastle, Guy Fawkes River National Park, and the Gold Coast before arriving in Brisbane. This is a drive full of epic coastal scenery following stints of the Brunswick River, Jinangong Nature Reserve, and Cudgera Creek Nature Reserve.

I found the hardest part about my road trip around the West Coast of Australia to be choosing the start and finish points! Depending on the types of roads you’re planning on exploring, you may need a 4WD, so keep this in mind when looking at car rentals. My time driving along the West Coast was full of great memories, from making it all the way from Fremantle to Darwin, to ending up with a 10-person convoy at the end of the trip!

Great Ocean Road  

The Great Ocean Road is a popular route to take for travellers looking to fill their souls with endless views and experience quaint coastal towns like a local. This was an unforgettable part of my solo trip to Australia and ending our journey in Port Fairy was the best possible way to round off the adventure and talk in awe of the incredible sights we saw along the way. 

During my time in Australia, I spent nearly a whole month exploring Tasmania, partly because the delicious local produce tasted so good, and partly because it was one of the most enjoyable places I have ever taken a road trip! My time road-tripping around Tasmania instantly fills me with memories of tent camping on pure white sand and venturing to 11 national parks. 

How Do I Make Friends When Solo Travelling Australia? 

One of my most commonly asked questions is how I make friends when I’m travelling solo. I’ve written a full guide about this topic that you can read here to learn in-depth about some of the key ways I meet people when I’m out on the road alone. During my time in Australia, I found it easy to make friends, maybe because there were backpackers and tourists seemingly at every corner! When I first land in a country and I don’t know anyone, there are a few fundamental things I do each time.

Be Confident

Even if I feel butterflies in my stomach and sweat beading in my hands, I try to convey confidence when I’m meeting new people. I know what it’s like to want to crawl back into your shell, but this won’t help you bond with other solo travellers on your Aussie adventure! Smile, take a deep breath, and approach the group of backpackers sitting at the bar – they could be the gateway to learning more about Australia and even the perfect group for a road trip.

Initiate Conversation

I always have a handful of questions in my back pocket to initiate conversations with new people. Topics around travel always get backpackers talking, so think about questions such as “is it your first time here?”, “what are your plans for your time in Australia?”, or “how long are you staying at this hostel?” to help push past any initial awkwardness you may be feeling about talking to someone new.

Suggest A Group Activity

There are so many possible activities to do in Australia, from sailing, surfing, and snorkelling, to attending festivals or taking a boat trip. Doing an activity together is a great way for people to gel and get to know one another in a friendly, open environment. This is one of the best ways I’ve found for meeting people when I’m travelling solo, as anyone who’s up for a spontaneous group activity, is likely someone who is also up for a chat too!

Australia has such a place in my heart, and the moments I captured during my time in the country are some I will never forget. Where are you thinking of heading to in Australia? I’d love to know!

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A complete guide to solo travel in Australia

Updated On 23rd February, 2024

Solo travel in Australia is a dream on many peoples bucket lists and well, it is not hard to see why,

Maybe it’s the tropical climates, the wildlife, the laid-back beachy lifestyle, the epic road trips or the backpacker goals lifestyle that has you dreaming of a trip down under, or maybe it’s a combination of them all?

Whatever it is, if you’re looking for a guide to solo travel in Australia, look no further. I got you!

I’ve solo travelled through Australia on 4 (fortunate) occasions now and so in this travel guide, I am going to share with you all the tips, tricks and knowledge I have from my solo travel in Australia.

Get your pen and paper at the ready, by the end of this post you will have all the inspiration ready to book your solo trip to Australia.  You will not regret it!

Other blog posts/guides you may find useful:

• Australia Travel Guide
• Farm work in Australia: Finding a job, top tips and advice
• Visiting Fraser Island and The Whitsundays: Australia on a backpacker budget
• A guide to freedom camping on the east coast of Australia
• Hiring a camper van in Australia and New Zealand: Your questions answered
• A complete guide to budgeting for backpacking Australia
• 13 ways to save money whilst backpacking Australia

My complete guide to solo travel in Australia…

Whether you are planning a 3-week solo trip, a couple of months travelling or even a whole year on a  Working Holiday Visa , Australia is a world-class location to do all three in. I don’t even know where to start luring you in with adventures I’ve been on here; I’ve had  so many  incredible ones. Here are a few blog posts to get you started…

• The best things to do in Australia
• Cairns to Sydney: The alternative East Coast Australia bucket list

It’s in Australia that you’ll be able to sail the beautiful  Whitsunday Islands , snorkel or scuba dive on the  Great Barrier Reef , explore  Fraser Island ,  Skydive , hang out in  Sydney  or  Melbourne  and of course visit the ultimate surf town of  Byron Bay…  and you can do it all solo!

Solo travel in Australia is so easy, particularly when compared to other countries so don’t worry about meeting people, being on your own or not having people to travel with. Australia is a haven for solo travellers. I’d say its one of my top 3 recommendations for a first-time solo traveller.

For the ultimate East Coast Australia bucket list,  check out this post.

For an alternative East Coast Australia bucket list,  check out this post.

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Is solo travelling popular in Australia?

The answer is a massive  YES .

If you’re part of the Global Travellers Facebook group ( join here ), you’ll see that the majority of the conversations about Australia are all about solo travel and even arranging meet-ups. There are SO many people doing it and there’s so many of you in the same boat – it’s just about putting yourself in the right places to find eachother.  I got you!

I’m sure many will vouch for me when I say,  ‘the moment you arrive in Australia, you realise how easy it is to navigate solo’.

I get it though, it’s a daunting thought going it alone and so it might seem super tempting to join, say a 30-day organised group tour instead. Group tours have their place in Australia for sure and if you really need to ease yourself in with an ‘intro’ one – by all means rock it. However you can end up paying  a lot  for these tours and then wishing you’d been smarter with your pennies.

Instead, I’d recommend simply booking small bits of your trips separately, e.g. transport, hostels and some of the main tours. All of the latter are all set up in a way that allows for backpackers to be spontaneous if they want. Then step out of your comfort zone, take a leap of faith and go solo travelling in Australia!

If you change your mind, you can always book onto a group tour when you’re there but… I believe in you!

Don’t forget!  My good friend Sammy owns  RatPack Travel  (a discounted booking platform for Australia and New Zealand Travels). They can help you…

– find the best prices and options for transport, trips and tours around the all the key destinations in Australia – create a personalized travel calendar with recommendations for your trip – answer any questions you may have – have an incredible time!

Click here  to send  RatPack  a WhatsApp message ( +61 490 149 348 ) and to get the ball rolling.

Don’t forget you can use my code  MOLLIE10  for  10% off  any trip or transport booking you make.

How do I meet people in Australia?

Sometimes you’re just in the right place at the right time but sometimes just have to get out of your comfort zone and simply say hello.

All of the hostels are totally geared up for solo travellers. The best way to meet people in hostels is at the organised events, in your room (choose a larger mixed dorm to meet people!), or in the common areas. If there’s a BBQ or a beer pong tournament, join in, and I am sure you’ll not only have a great time, but you’ll also meet awesome people. The best tip I can give you is to just  smile and say hello  or even compliment someone on how good their food smells if you’re in the kitchen.

It’s worth remembering that you’re all in the same boat; chances are other solo travellers are feeling just as nervous as you are. Be the one to make the first move (not in a creepy way haha).

Typically solo travellers and travellers in general coming to Australia will travel the east coast from Sydney to Cairns (or vice versa).  This is the most popular route to take.  So whether your travel dates tie in with new found friends or not, it’s not uncommon to bump into people several times along the coast! You become like one big family.

If you know your dates or locations, pop a message on the  Global Travellers Facebook group  and I have no doubt you’ll find a travel buddy to meet up with!

Worried about making friends while you’re solo travelling?  Here are all my top tips!

If you’ve never stayed in a hostel before,  click here for my hostel top tips and hostel packing essentials!

Should I go on group tours and experiences when I solo travel in Australia?

Absolutely! Like I said before… group tours definitely have their place in Australia.

For example when it comes to the likes of the  Whitsundays  or  Fraser Island  – group tours are second to none. 3 days with a group of backpackers in  amazing locations, full of fun and incredible experiences  is definitely going to bond you. You might even find you’ll be travelling in the same direction as others following the trip and  you’ll have a new travel buddy ! 

Some of my favourite memories and bonds have been on these group tours in Australia. I’d definitely say get a Whitsundays group tour and Fraser Island group tour on your Australia bucket list.

Booking the Whitsundays:

The  Whitsundays sailing  tours leave from Airlie Beach and, depending on which boat you’ll choose, you’ll find yourself with a group of travellers from all over the world in a similar age range. The day times will be full of sailing, exploring beaches, snorkelling and the evenings are full of fun and drinks under the stars. You’ll be sharing large cabins with other backpackers on the tour as well as spending every day together, you’ll have  instant friends  and… people to help you get THE perfect shot!

See my guide to booking the best Whitsundays boat for you  here.

Don’t forget you can use my code MOLLIE10 for  10% off  any trip or transport booking you make with  RatPack Travel .

Booking Fraser Island:

Oh, Fraser Island.  If you go on one of the 4WD Tag Along tours, you’ll be in convoy of 4 jeeps with 7 people in each 4WDs. Road trip goals. Have an epic road trip playlist ready that includes some classic singalongs! Over the 3 days, you’ll be driving on beach highways, swimming in freshwater lakes and camping under the stars .  Just like the Whitsundays, you’ll share accommodation, transport and spend every day with the group. It’s the perfect way to meet other backpackers who also love to explore. 

See my guide to booking the best Fraser Island trip for you here.

See my solo travel vs. booking onto group tours blog post here if you still can’t decide which route to take.

Is solo travel in Australia safe?

I’ve always felt very safe in Australia when I’ve been travelling. The people here are kind and the cities are safe. Obviously, just like anywhere you travel, always have your wits about you and don’t put yourself in any situations that you wouldn’t at home. As a rule of thumb, I keep in touch with my family when I’m travelling and make sure I have data and battery on my phone (a power bank is really useful to travel with!)

Check out  my top tips for solo travel as a female in this blog post.

See my top tips for staying safe when travelling solo  here.

How do I get around Australia?

I travelled by bus the first time I travelled around Australia. It was so easy and convenient, and every bus was full of backpackers sharing stories and tips. I got the  Greyhound Hop on Hop off  bus pass which basically allowed me to travel from Sydney to Cairns on any Greyhound bus and stopped off at all the destinations I wanted to visit, it’s  definitely a way of travelling I’d recommend for a solo traveller .

Another thing to remember is that domestic flights in Australia are super cheap, so if you are on a short timeframe check out  Skyscanner  or  Jetstar  for flights.

If you prefer a bit of freedom, why not book a campervan through RatPack and road trip it!? I hired one from Sammy at RatPack when I did a  5-day Great Ocean Road road trip.

• See my guide to planning your transport in Australia here.
• Check out my guide to Greyhound buses in Australia here.
• If you want to find out more about hiring a camper in Australia, click here.

If you opt for the Greyhound bus pass, instead of booking direct,  click here  and use the code  MOLLIE10  for 10% off the direct rate with RatPack Travel. You can also use the discount for campers!

How much of my trip to Australia should I plan?

As a solo traveller, I always like to have a rough idea of where I’m going and what I’m doing. For Australia the choice is yours however I’d say it’s  pretty essential to pre-plan your trip if you are going in the peak season (November – February).  The popular trips trips get booked up around 3-4 weeks in advance during peak time. With everything else you can be super flexible with and keep it spontaneous.

What happens if things go wrong?

Whether you are travelling solo or with friends, there is always scope for plans to change or things to go ‘wrong’. The first thing to do is to not panic; there’s always a solution! It’s pretty normal when travelling to be faced with a few hurdles, be it weather affecting your plans, suddenly feeling lonely or needing to go and see a doctor.  See my advice for feeling homesick when travelling here.

Medically, if you need to see a doctor urgently, the emergency number is  000.  Save it to your phone! Find hospitals near you  here . If you need to see a GP for something less urgent, most are open Monday-Friday 9-5, but you’ll need to book an appointment (it’ll cost 50-70 AUD). Make sure you get  travel insurance  – medical bills in Australia add up  really  quickly!

If you ever feel lonely,  don’t forget  that your family and friends are a quick WhatsApp or FaceTime away. The best way to overcome loneliness is to put yourself out there and socialise at the hostel events or common areas or join a tour with other backpackers. Don’t be scared though; feeling nervous before travelling is normal. Getting out of your comfort zone is one of the best things you can do.  Get the flight booked and let the adventure begin…

The weather can’t be controlled, but try and check the forecast regularly before you make concrete plans, and if the weather calls off an activity you really wanted to do, embrace the storm and do that activity another day!

Top tip :  RatPack Travel  are the only agent that offers 100% full refund on any cancelled trips due to weather. RatPack knows that travelling sometimes isn’t perfect so if a big old storm rolls in and cancels your trip, you can expect all your money back.

CLICK HERE TO WHATSAPP RATPACK TRAVEL NOW (+61 490 149 348)

Looking for more top tips for solo travel in Australia?

Check out my video below, or my complete guide to  budgeting for backpacking through Australia here !

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

Have you solo travelled in Australia?

What are your top tips? I’d love to know about your experience!

Love as always + happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

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IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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Solo travel in Australia: everything you need to know

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written by Shafik Meghji

updated 07.05.2021

Australia remains a classic travel destination. A steady stream of solo traveller gap-year backpackers, career breakers and round-the-world-trippers head down under to sample Sydney’s energetic nightlife, visit the Great Barrier Reef, marvel at Uluru , cuddle a koala and learn to surf.

The must-see destinations

Getting around.

• Where to stay

Where to eat (and drink)

How to meet people, appreciate being on your own.

The country is a great place for solo travellers, particularly first-timers – it’s friendly, fun and full of opportunities to meet people. Many travellers end up staying longer than they planned – and some never leave.

Travel ideas for Australia, created by local experts

Explore Western Australia from Perth to Broome

Western Australia is the country's largest state, covering more than a third of Australia. This self drive itinerary allows you to explore sunny Perth, stunning national parks and waterfalls, the remote wild west outback, empty beaches and much more.

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory

Explore South Australia and the Northern Territory on this self-drive adventure. Start in Adelaide and make your way over the Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, and Alice Springs to the Kakadu National Park and ultimately Darwin.

Cross Western Australia to Darwin

Western Australia offers wonderfully remote outback experiences: from spectacular national parks to sandy deserts, pristine beaches to working cattle stations. This itinerary allows you to explore the way from Perth to Darwin in depth and at your own pace, in your own rental car.

Classic Australia - Sydney, Melbourne and Gold Coast

Explore the best of Australia's cities and nature! From Sydney and Melbourne's urban charm to the scenic wonders of the Great Ocean Road, Cairns' reef adventures, to the lush rainforests of Kuranda. End with nature's embrace at Burleigh Head and Lamington National Parks on the Gold Coast.

The Best of Australia

Discover Australia's allure through this tour! You'll witness Sydney's iconic landmarks and explore the beauty of the Blue Mountains. Dive into Cairns' reef and rainforest wonders before marveling at the breathtaking beauty of the Great Ocean Road in Melbourne.

One of the world’s great cities, Sydney is the ideal place to start your trip. As well as landmarks like the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach, it has a lively backpacker scene and eating, drinking and nightlife options to suit all budgets and tastes.

Cosmopolitan Melbourne is the country’s second-biggest city. As well as being a foodie and cultural hub, it has the country’s premier sports ground, the MCG – watching an Aussie Rules, rugby or cricket match here is an unforgettable experience.

Queensland is home to some of Australia’s most famous attractions: the Great Barrier Reef, the scenic Whitsundays , the beach resorts of the Gold Coast , and Fraser Island , which is covered with giant sand dunes.

© Uwe Aranas/Shutterstock

No trip is complete without a visit to Uluru (Ayers Rock), which lies in the centre of the country, deep in the Outback. Regardless of how many photos you’ve seen of “The Rock”, nothing prepares you for experiencing it first-hand.

It’s also well worth heading off the beaten track. For example, the temperate wilderness of Tasmania feels very different to the rest of the country, the tropical Northern Territory has some of the country’s best national parks, and South Australia offers great vineyards and a beautiful coastline.

Australia is the sixth largest country in the world – at almost 7.7 square kilometres it is 31.5 times bigger than the UK – and getting around takes time.

Most people fly between states, and competition means fares are pretty good value. For shorter journeys – or tighter budgets – Greyhound buses connect all the main tourist destinations.

Australia is also a great place to drive , enabling you to explore at your own pace and get off the tourist trail. Campervans are particularly economical, as they double up as accommodation. Vehicles are easy to hire, but if you’re travelling for several months it is often cheaper to buy a secondhand vehicle and then sell it on again at the end of your trip.

Hostels are great places to meet other backpackers, and most organise social activities – often for free – including barbecues and pub crawls. The YHA, which offers accommodation in everything from former prisons to historic mansions, is a good place to start.

Another option is a homestay, which provide the opportunity to meet locals and stay in a family environment.

Many people feel self-conscious about eating out (or going for a drink) on their own, but it’s increasingly common, especially in the cities.

Most hostels have a café, restaurant or bar where you won’t stand out as a solo diner and are likely to meet fellow travellers. More and more restaurants have communal tables, and food markets – such as Mindil Beach Sunset Market in Darwin and Adelaide Central Market – are sociable places to eat, too.

It’s also easy to strike up a conversation with a stranger in an Aussie pub (which, confusingly, are often called “hotels”).

Related articles from the blog

Working in Australia is a rite of passage and a great way to meet people, get under the skin of the country and fund your travels.

Twelve-month working holiday visas are available for 18 to 30-year-olds from most European countries (including the UK and Ireland), Canada, Japan and Korea. US citizens need to apply for a “work and holiday visa”. For more information, visit www.border.gov.au.

Officially, no job should last longer than six months, and most travellers end up working on farms or doing bar, construction and other casual work.

It may seem counter-intuitive, but you’re far more likely to meet new people if you’re travelling on your own, rather than in a couple or with friends. You’ve got an added incentive to break the ice and try out new things – and will also seem more approachable to the countless other solo travellers out there.

Taking part in group activities is another easy way to meet people. For example, you could climb Sydney Harbour Bridge , take a 4WD trip across the giant sand dunes of Fraser Island, go wine tasting in the Barossa Valley or spot dolphins on a Coral Coast cruise.

And Australians themselves are (generally) very sociable, welcoming and happy to talk to strangers.

Cape Range National Park, Ningaloo Marine Park © Darkydoors/Shutterstock

You will feel lonely and homesick at some point. But you’ll also never have as much freedom than when travelling on your own – you can go wherever you want, whenever you want and do whatever you want, without worrying about anyone else.

Some of Australia’s epic landscapes – sunset at Uluru, driving down the Great Ocean Road – are best appreciated alone.

And although it may sound cliched, you’ll learn a lot more about yourself when you travel on your own.

You will find plenty of ideas for your Australian solo trip in our guide to the best things to do in Australia .

Shafik Meghji co-authors The Rough Guide to Australia . He blogs at unmappedroutes.com .

Top image © GagliardiPhotography/Shutterstock

Shafik is an award-winning travel writer, journalist and co-author of more than 40 Rough Guides to destinations across Latin America, Asia, Oceania, Europe and North Africa. A regular contributor to the Rough Guide to Everywhere podcast, he writes and takes photos for BBC Travel, Wanderlust and Atlas Obscura, among others. His new book, Crossed Off The Map: Travels in Bolivia, will be published in late 2021. Follow him @shafikmeghji on Twitter and Instagram .

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Australia Solo Travel Guide and Adventure Itinerary (2023)

Australia is one of the most popular and diverse solo travel destinations in the world. Head Down Under and you can cuddle a koala, surf the Gold Coast, dive the Great Barrier Reef, catch the sunrise at Uluru and so much more!

In this ultimate guide to solo travel in Australia, you’ll find everything you need to plan the Ozzie adventure of a lifetime.

All the advice is tailored to people who will be travelling alone in Australia, including: the best destinations, things to do and see, accommodation, transport, costs, a packing list, safety tips and much more. 

After Australia, why don’t you continue on to solo travel New Zealand !

• Solo Travel in Australia
• 6 Best Places to Travel Alone
• 10 Best Things to Do and See
• Accommodation
• Best Time to Visit Australia
• Where to Start
• How Long to Spend Travelling
• Costs and Budgeting
• Packing List
• Visas and Entry Requirements
• More guides and tips

Overview of Solo T ravel in Australia

Australia is one of the best solo travel destinations for both first-timers and experienced travellers. 

People love to travel solo in Australia because it is safe, easy to navigate and has an array of famous sites such as Sydney, Bondi Beach, Melbourne, Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef, the Great Ocean Road and Kakadu. You will enjoy the relaxed environment and find it easy to make friends with the locals and other solo travellers. 

The most popular solo travel route in Australia is the East Coast (Melbourne – Sydney – Byron Bay – Gold Coast – Cairns). However, if you have enough time, you may also want to travel into The Outback (Uluru, Kakadu, Broome, etc.)

Solo travel around Australia is particularly popular amongst young people (aged 18-30) (both male and female) thanks to its party atmosphere and visa options. However, it is also popular amongst older solo travellers (50+), sometimes referred to as ‘Grey Nomads’ in Australia (famous for travelling around in campervans and motorhomes).

It is easy to find accommodation all over Australia, with hostels and hotels found in every major town and city. It is also easy to arrange transport, with coaches travelling around most of the country and airports in major cities and large regional towns. 

Many people choose to solo travel in Australia during summer (December – February), because they think that the beaches will be more enjoyable in the heat. However, the cooler seasons are a great time to solo travel around Australia because the Northern Tropics are more accessible and it snows in the alpine regions of south-east Australia.

Note that Australia can be an expensive country to solo travel in. It is also a large place and you will need at least 1-3 months if you want to see most of the highlights. 

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary (1-6 Months) : 4 Best Places to Travel Alone

East Coast of Australia (1-3 Months)

Victoria (1 week to 1 month).

Victoria is the second most populous state and is located in the southeast of the country. It is famous for its buzzing metropolitan lifestyle, wine regions, natural wonders and sporting events.

The capital of Victoria is Melbourne. You can fly to Melbourne from many international airports around the world. You can also fly domestically or catch a coach or train from Sydney, Adelaide or Brisbane. Many people start their solo travel in Australia here.

Melbourne is famous for being a cultural hub of Australia and one of the most liveable cities in the world. Wander the laneways and admire the street art before stopping for a coffee (voted the best in the world). Then at night, enjoy a craft beer at a local brewery before hitting the nightclubs or catching a sporting event.

To the west of Melbourne is the Great Ocean Road, one of the most renowned coastal drives in the world. Along the way, stand in awe and admire geological wonders such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. You’ll also get to explore rainforests, waterfalls and Bell’s Beach (the home of surfing in Australia). 

Throughout the Victorian Countryside and the Mornington Peninsula, you will find vineyards responsible for producing some of the world’s best Chardonnay, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir. And when you’re not wining and dining, you can soak away the afternoon in mineral hot baths or cast a line on the Murray River. 

New South Wales (1 Week to 1 Month)

New South Wales is the most populous state in Australia and is located on the East Coast. It is famous for its iconic beaches, monumental landmarks and mountain ranges.

The capital of New South Wales is Sydney. You can fly to Sydney from many international airports around the world. You can also fly domestically or catch a coach or train from Melbourne or Brisbane. 

Sydney is known for its famous landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. It is also home to the famous Bondi Beach and Manly Beach. To the west of Sydney are the Blue Mountains, where you can see towering waterfalls and steep cliffs amongst the blue haze of the eucalyptus forests.

The northern coastline of NSW is lined with long, sandy beaches. The most famous of these is the celebrity hotspot Byron Bay, a hippy community that has become a playground for backpackers and wealthy travellers alike. When you’re not learning to surf, just kick back and relax or hit one of the nightclubs. 

In southern NSW are the Snowy Mountains and Kosciuszko National Park, home to the highest peak in Australia and bush legends such as the Man From the Snowy River. Visit in the winter and you can ski or snowboard at large resorts such as Perisher and Thredbo. 

Queensland (2 Weeks – 1 Month)

Queensland is the most popular destination for solo travel in Australia. This tropical paradise is famous for its sandy beaches, tropical rainforest, vibrant reef and party cities.

The capital of Queensland is Brisbane. You can fly to Brisbane from many international airports around the world. You can also fly domestically or catch a coach or train from Sydney or Melbourne. It is another great starting point for solo travel in Australia.

Brisbane is famous for its sub-tropical climate, riverside walkways, alfresco dining and annual Cockroach Races. It is also close to Stradbroke Island, a whale-watching paradise!

An hour from Brisbane is the Gold Coast, where solo travellers like to party by night and then recover on the beach by day. Here, you will find strips of nightclubs, bars and theme parks filled with young people looking for a good time. Some of the famous surf beaches include Surfer’s Paradise and Burleigh Heads.

A few hours further north is the Sunshine Coast, a more-upmarket beach destination with luxurious hotels and popular hostels. Visit Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo, where you can hand feed kangaroos, pat a koala and watch the croc feeding show. Then catch a ferry to Fraser Island (K’Gari), where vivid blue lakes, rainforests and sand dunes adorn the world’s largest sand island.

In the Tropical North of Queensland, you will find cities such as Townsville and Cairns – both gateways to the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel with turtles and visit heavenly spots such as Hamilton Island and Magnetic Island. Then, delve deep into the oldest rainforest in the world, the Daintree Rainforest.

Tasmania (2 Weeks)

Tasmania is an island state to the south of Australia. Whilst it may not be the most popular place to solo travel in Australia, it is perhaps the most underrated. Tasmania is famous for its spectacular scenery, convict and Aboriginal history, unique wildlife and cultural attractions.

The capital of Tasmania is Hobart. You can fly to Hobart from all of the major airports in Australia. Alternatively, you can catch a ferry to Tasmania from Melbourne.

Hobart is famous for its cultural attractions, such as the Salamanca Markets, which hosts over 300 artisan stalls every Saturday. You should also ride the ferry to the MONA Art Museum, the largest privately-funded museum in the Southern Hemisphere.

The East Coast of Tasmania is spoiled with amazing seafood and scenery, including sights such as Wineglass Bay and the Bay of Fires. You can also visit Port Arthur, which was once a brutal convict settlement but is today one of the best museums in Australia.

The West Coast of Tasmania is wild and rugged but beautiful. Climb Cradle Mountain and look out of vast swathes of remote Australian bushland before circling the crystal clear waters of Lake St Clair. And don’t miss out on the Tasmanian Devil sanctuary!

Western Australia (1-2 Months)

Western Australia is the largest state in Australia (about 3.5 times the size of Texas). It is less popular than the East Coast but is remarkable in its own right. It is famous for its rugged coastline, coral reefs and desert interior.

The capital of Western Australia is Perth. You can fly to Perth from all of the major airports in Australia. Otherwise, it is several days’ drive from Adelaide, Melbourne or Sydney.

Perth is famous for Cottesloe Beach and is a gateway to Rottnest Island, home of the Instagram-famous Quokka (a cute little kangaroo). To the south of Perth is the historic city of Fremantle and the Margaret River surf region. To the north is the Pinnacles Desert, where strange limestone pillars that are 30,000 years old rise out of the sands.

The Western Australian Coastline is vast and takes weeks to travel, but it is host to internationally-renowned marine attractions. Feed dolphins on the shore in Monkey Mia, swim with the whale sharks at Ningaloo Marine Park and ride a camel along Cable Beach in Broome.

The Western Australian Outback is even more vast but is equally remarkable. Explore the red soils, ginormous gorges and hidden swimming holes around Kalbarri National Park, Karijini National Park and the Kimberley. Then see Wave Rock before crossing the desert via the Nullarbor Plain, the longest straight road on the planet (147km/91mi).

The Outback (1 Month)

The Australian Outback may seem dry and deserted but it is one of the most popular destinations for solo travel in Australia. Known as the Red Centre, it is famous for its amber sands, Aboriginal culture, natural wonders and wildlife. 

Most people start their Outback journey in the city of Adelaide, which is surrounded by internationally-renowned wine regions such as the Barossa Valley. Nature lovers will want to see the wildlife on Kangaroo Island or cage dive with Great White Sharks off of Port Lincoln. 

In the centre of Australia is the country’s most iconic landmark, Uluru, which stands 348m tall. Not far away are the equally impressive Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. And you can’t visit the Outback without stopping in the quirky town of Coober Pedy, where the people live underground to escape the heat.

In the north of Australia is Darwin, where you can watch jumping crocodiles on the nearby Adelaide River. And don’t miss Kakadu National Park, where you can see ancient Aboriginal rock art, swim amongst breathtaking gorges, cruise around billabongs and soak in thermal hot springs.

Related Post

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary : 10 Best Things to Do and See

1. The Daintree Rainforest

Explore the world’s oldest tropical rainforest (180 million years old) and the place that Sir David Attenborough once called “the most extraordinary place on Earth.”

Delve into the shadowy depths of the Daintree Rainforest, following the boardwalks as they twist and turn underneath the lush canopy and dangling vines. Listen to the sounds of nature and keep an eye out for prehistoric wildlife – including the giant cassowary and crunching saltwater crocodiles. 

After all of that adventure, solo travellers can soak the day away in the trickling waters of Mossman Gorge or Masons Swimming Hole.

2. The Great Barrier Reef

Dive or snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef, which spans over 2,300km of Australia’s eastern coastline and is the largest living organism on Earth. 

Swim between vibrant corals that are 20 million years old and submerge yourself amongst the 1,600 species of fish, turtles, whales and dolphins that call this place home. Then dry yourself off on the soft and sandy shores of havens like Hamilton Island and Green Island.

Just be aware that summer is stinger season on the Great Barrier Reef and temperatures are scorching. It is best for solo travellers to visit during the winter when temperatures are still warm but pleasant and there are no stingers in the water.

3. Byron Bay

Chill out in Australia’s most famous beach town – Byron Bay. This slice of coastal bliss has become internationally renowned for its stunning beaches, laidback lifestyle and fun nightlife. 

Throw yourself into the hippy lifestyle and spend time doing yoga and pilates on the beach with the locals and other solo travellers. Pick up a board and learn to surf on the beautiful stretch of sand that is Main Beach. 

Take a sunset walk to Cape Byron Lighthouse on mainland Australia’s most easterly point. And then party the night away at local pubs and nightclubs like Stone & Wood or Cheeky Monkeys!

Sydney is the largest and most famous city in Australia thanks to its iconic attractions. Most solo travellers spend at least a week here seeing all the sights.

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge on a guided tour before catching a gig at the Opera House next door. Kick back on Bondi Beach before following the coastal walk around to Coogee Beach. Then ride the ferry to Taronga Zoo, where you can snap photos of exotic and native wildlife with the city skyline in the background.

Catch the train for a day trip to the UNESCO World-Heritage Blue Mountains, an hour west of Sydney. Take the walking trails to sights such as the 230m tall Katoomba Falls and The Three Sisters rock formation before visiting quaint villages such as Leura.

5. Rottnest Island

Enjoy a quick ferry ride from Perth to Rottnest Island, a slice of paradise with pristine beaches, abundant marine life and a famous little breed of wallaby known as the Quokka.

There are no cars allowed on Rottnest Island, so hire a bike and enjoy the freedom of peddling around the island. As you go, stop on one of the 63 white sand beaches and snorkel amongst the bright coral reefs – home to over 400 species of fish and fur seals.

Uncover the history of the island at Wadjemup Museum, where you can learn about the local Aboriginal heritage and how over 4,000 Aboriginal men and boys were imprisoned on the island from 1838 to 1931.

Finally, finish your visit by taking a selfie with a Quokka. You won’t find a cuter or friendlier creature when solo travelling around Australia!

6. Melbourne

Meander around Melbourne, a cultural hub for coffee, art, fashion, food and sport. Many people start their solo travel in Australia here and make their way north along the Eastern Coast.

Find your way through the maze of laneways, each lined with its own array of al fresco restaurants, trendy cafes and vibrant street art. Get buzzed on the world’s best coffee, drink with other solo travellers in pubs around Fitzroy or Carlton and dance the night away at one of the famous nightclubs such as Revolver.

Need some rest? Relax amongst the peaceful grounds of the Royal Botanic Gardens, which hosts over 8,500 plant species. Then watch the sunset on St Kilda Beach or grab a photo of the colourful beach huts on Brighton Beach.

7. The Great Ocean Road

Cruise along the Great Ocean Road, one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world and a must-visit on any Australia solo travel itinerary. At 244km, it can be driven in as little as one day.

Start in the beach town of Torquay (an hour west of Melbourne), the surfing capital of Australia and host to the Australian National Surfing Museum. Then explore the fern gullies and waterfalls around Lorne, such as the 30m cascade that is Erskine Falls. And wander amongst the koalas in the treetops of Great Otway National Park.

Trace the craggy cliff tops as you wind your way around the edge of the mighty Southern Ocean. Stop at the many panoramic lookouts along the way and take in iconic sights such as Loch Ard Gorge, the London Bridge, the Grotto and the Twelve Apostles – a series of 45m (150ft) tall limestone pillars that rise out of waves below.

8. Kakadu National Park

Take a solo outback adventure into the Top End and discover the ancient wonders of World Heritage-listed Kakadu – Australia’s largest national park.

Walk amongst towering ochre bluffs, drive through tropical rainforests, cool off in swimming holes and admire the thundering waterfalls around Nitmiluk National Park. 

Admire ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries (up to 20,000 years old), cruise the Yellow Water Billabong and soak in the thermal hot springs around Katherine. 

But take note, the best time to visit Kakadu National Park is in the Dry Season (May – October) when it doesn’t rain as much and the roads are more accessible. However, the waterfalls can be amazing during the Wet Season (November – April).

The middle of Australia is known as The Red Centre, where you will find the heart of the country and its culture – Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. If you have enough time, this is a must-visit on your Australia solo travel itinerary.

At 348 metres tall and 550 million years old, it’s no wonder why the monolithic Uluru is revered as a place of cultural and spiritual significance. Wake up early for some special sunrise photos before joining an Aboriginal guided tour and hearing their Dreamtime stories.

Don’t want to walk the full 9.4km around the base of the rock? Take a break and ride a camel around the red sands instead. And don’t miss nearby Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), massive rock domes that glow bright red at sunrise and sunset.

10. Ningaloo Reef

The Western Australia coastline is 12,895km long and adorned with remarkable attractions. One of the gems that you must add to your Australia solo travel itinerary is Ningaloo Reef. 

You will find the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef where the red soil of the outback runs into the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Swim, snorkel and kayak through the calm waters and admire the manta rays, turtles and humpback whales that call this place home.

Ningaloo is also one of the best places in the world to see Whale Sharks each year (between March and July). Join a guided tour and watch as these gentle giants glide past you in the big blue.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Accommodation

Solo travellers have four main accommodation options in Australia: camping, hostels, motels/hotels and Airbnb. 

Most people generally stay in hostels and motels when they solo travel in Australia.

Solo travellers can find designated camping spots all around Australia. The best and most scenic campsites tend to be in National Parks and holiday parks.

National Park campsites can cost anywhere from $0 – $20 per person per night. Holiday park campsites can cost anywhere from $20 – $75 per person per night. 

The cheaper the campsite, the more basic the facilities provided. A standard campsite should provide toilets, showers, water and picnic tables.

Camping is a fun option for adventurous solo travellers who want to be amongst nature and save money on accommodation. However, you will need to carry a tent or travel in a campervan. 

Some of Australia’s best camping spots include: 

• Booderee National Park – Jervis Bay, NSW
• Great Sandy National Park – Fraser Island, QLD
• Ayers Rock Resort – Petermann, NT
• Riba’s Underground Camping – Coober Pedy, SA
• Bay of Fires – East Coast, Tasmania

The majority of solo travellers and backpackers in Australia stay at hostels. You can find hostels in most tourist destinations around the country.

The cost of a bed in a hostel dorm room ranges from about $25 – $70 per night. The cost of a private room in a hostel ranges from about $70 – $175 per night.

The cost of hostel accommodation increases in popular destinations (particularly cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and the Gold Coast). Generally, dorm rooms with fewer beds also cost more.

Hostel accommodation is best for most solo travellers because it is affordable and a good way to make new friends. Women can also stay in female-only dorm rooms. However, hostels are not always as comfortable as motels or hotels.

Some of the most popular hostels for solo travel in Australia include:

• Gilligan’s Hostel – Cairns, QLD
• Bounce – Sydney, NSW
• The Mansion – Melbourne, VIC
• Nomads Hostel – Byron Bay, NSW
• Kimberley Travellers Lodge YHA – Broome, WA

Motels and hotels

Many solo travellers in Australia stay in motels or hotels. You can find motels and hotels in almost every city and town around the country.

The cost of an average motel or hotel room (3-4 stars) ranges from about $50 to $150 per night. However, luxurious hotel rooms can cost more than $250+ per night.

Motel and hotel accommodation is best for solo travellers who are willing to pay more for privacy and comfort. You may also have to use this option when visiting regional towns that don’t have hostels. However, it is harder to befriend fellow travellers in a motel or hotel compared to a hostel.

Popular motel and hotel chains in Australia include:

• Holiday Inn

Some solo travellers in Australia may choose to use Airbnb. You can find Airbnb accommodation in every city and most towns around the country.

The average cost of an apartment or home on Airbnb ranges from $150 – $250 per night. However, some rentals can cost up to $500+ per night.

Airbnb is best for solo travellers who want to enjoy luxury, privacy and comfort. It can also be a good option if you plan to stay at your destination long-term. You may even choose to split the cost between a group of friends or fellow travellers.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Transport

Australia is a large place and it can take days or even weeks to travel the long distances between major cities. Even the cities tend to be large in scale and you will often have to rely on public transport to get around.

It is best to break long journeys up into smaller parts by stopping in regional tourist destinations along the way. 

Public Transport

You will find reliable and affordable public transport in all Australian cities and major towns. This includes trains, buses, trams and ferries. 

The cost of using public transport in Australia ranges from about $4 – $8 per return trip. 

When you solo travel in Australia, you can use public transport as an affordable way to get around the city and see local attractions. It tends to be comfortable and safe, with security cameras and guards.

Most of the major cities have their own card system for public transport. You can buy these cards at news agencies and top them up with credit via an app or online. You can then use the card to tap on/off when using buses, trains and ferries:

• Sydney – Opal card (alternatively, just use contactless payment).
• Melbourne – Myki card .
• Brisbane – Go Card (alternatively, just use contactless payment).
• Perth – SmartRider Card .

Uber and Taxi

Ubers and taxis are available in all major cities and many regional cities around Australia, including the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Cairns, Byron Bay and Alice Springs. 

Ubers are more affordable than taxis in Australia and charge about $1.50 per km. Taxis charge about $2.50 per km.

When you solo travel in Australia, you may want to use Uber or taxis as a convenient but more costly alternative to public transport when commuting around the city. 

Uber and taxis tend to be comfortable and safe. Check that your Uber driver has a good rating and familiarise yourself with the safety features on the app. 

There are a few long-distance coach services that solo travellers can use to travel between destinations in Australia.

The largest and most popular coach service for solo travel in Australia is Greyhound Buses. They can transport you all over the East Coast (including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra) and the Outback (including Darwin, Alice Springs, Adelaide and Broome). Along the way, you can hop on and hop off to visit the smaller regional cities and towns.

You can buy a travel pass, which lasts for a limited amount of time and allows you to travel in any direction and get off at any stop. The East Coast Pass costs $249 and lasts for 30 days. The National Pass costs $349 and lasts for 120 days.

Coaches are one of the most popular and affordable ways to solo travel around Australia. However, it is slower and less comfortable than taking the train or a domestic flight.

There are limited long-distance train services that solo travellers can use to travel between destinations in Australia. 

The most popular train services run along the East Coast (between Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns). These are relatively affordable for a solo traveller, with economy tickets costing:

• Melbourne – Sydney: $110 – $130
• Sydney – Brisbane: $110 – $130
• Brisbane – Cairns: $275 – $370

These trains also offer sleeper coaches for about an extra $100-$150 per person.

There are also a few famous train services that run through the Outback, such as The Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth) and The Ghan (Adelaide to Alice Springs to Darwin). However, these are expensive and luxurious journeys that most people consider once-in-a-lifetime experiences. A full journey can cost anywhere from $2150 – $4,200 per person.

Trains are a comfortable and easy way to solo travel around the East Coast of Australia. However, they are slightly more expensive than catching a coach.

The most popular way to solo travel in Australia is via domestic flight.

The average cost of a domestic flight for a solo traveller in Australia depends on the destination, distance and season: 

• Shorter flights along the East Coast (Melbourne, Sydney, Byron Bay, Brisbane, Cairns) may only cost around $100 – $250 per person one way (economy class).
• Longer flights and regional destinations (Perth, Broome, Alice Springs) may cost more, at around $300-$500 per person one way (economy class).

You also have to consider the cost of baggage. Most domestic airlines in Australia do not include baggage in the ticket price and you will have to pay an extra fee of about $25 – $50 per flight. 

The most popular domestic airlines in Australia include:

• Jetstar (most affordable)
• Virgin Australia (second most affordable)
• Qantas (most reliable)
• Rex (best for regional flights)

Domestic flights are the fastest and most comfortable way to solo travel in Australia. However, flying is more expensive than some other options and you won’t get to see as much of the countryside.

Car and campervan rental

Car rental is another popular way to solo travel in Australia.

The cost of hiring a car in Australia depends on the type of car you hire, your age and any extras:

• Aged 18-21: Most car rental agencies won’t let people younger than 21 hire a car.
• It costs an average of $75 per day to hire a small car such as a Hyundai i30 or a Toyota Yaris. 
• It costs an average of $100 per day to hire a medium or large car such as a Toyota Camry or Kia Cerato. 
• It costs an average of $50 per day to hire a small car such as a Hyundai i30 or a Toyota Yaris. 
• It costs an average of $75 per day to hire a medium or large car such as a Toyota Camry or Kia Cerato. 

The most popular car rental companies include Hertz, Enterprise, Europcar, Budget and Avis.

Car and campervan rental is the most flexible way to solo travel in Australia. You can adjust your Australia solo travel itinerary to your liking and see more of the country. However, it is more costly than other transport options.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Best Time to Visit Australia

The best time to solo travel in Australia is between Autumn and Spring because temperatures are reasonable, tourist crowds are minimal and the Tropical North (i.e. Kakadu and the Great Barrier Reef) is more accessible. 

The worst time to solo travel in Australia is summer because temperatures can be scorching, tourist crowds are peaking and parts of the country are inaccessible due to the wet season.

Summer in Australia lasts from December – February. 

During summer, daytime temperatures across Australia can range from 18℃ (64℉) to more than 45℃ (113℉). 

If you solo travel in Australia during summer, try to stick to the southern parts of the country where the climate is cooler. Avoid the Outback and the wet season in the Northern Tropics.

Good solo travel destinations in summer include the Great Ocean Road, Bondi Beach, Byron Bay, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.

Many tourists travel to Australia during summer, so expect large crowds.

Autumn in Australia lasts from March – May. 

During Autumn, daytime temperatures across Australia can range from 12℃ (53℉) to 35℃ (95℉). 

If you solo travel in Australia during autumn, try to see the changing foliage and cultural events (food, wine, comedy and sports) in the southern parts of the country. 

Good solo travel destinations in autumn include Tasmania, Melbourne, the Grampians, Sydney and the Blue Mountains.

Fewer international tourists travel to Australia during autumn, so crowds are smaller. However, be aware that many Australians travel during the Easter holidays.

Winter in Australia lasts from June – August. 

During winter, daytime temperatures across Australia can range from 0℃ (32℉) to 25℃ (77℉). 

If you solo travel in Australia during winter, try to make the most of the dry season and visit the Outback and the Northern Tropics. You could also experience the alpine regions in the southeast. 

Good solo travel destinations in winter include Kakadu, the Great Barrier Reef, the Snowy Mountains and the Humpback Highway on the east coast.

Fewer international tourists travel to Australia during winter, so crowds are smaller. However, be aware that many Australians travel to the snow fields during the holidays.

Spring in Australia lasts from September – November.

During spring, daytime temperatures across Australia can range from 6℃ (43℉) to 33℃ (91℉). 

If you solo travel in Australia during winter, try to make the most of the end of the dry season in the Northern Tropics. It is also a great time to see wildflowers in the Outback and visit wineries.

Good solo travel destinations in spring include Uluru, Wave Rock, Adelaide, the Coral Coast, the Mornington Peninsula and the Hunter Valley.

Fewer international tourists travel to Australia during spring, so crowds are smaller. However, be aware that many Australians travel during the holidays.

Wet Season and Dry Season

In the north of Australia, there are two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season.

The wet season lasts from November – April. It is characterised by very hot days, high humidity and monsoonal storms. Much of Kakadu is inaccessible at this time of year due to flooding. It is also best to avoid the Great Barrier Reef as it is stinger season.

The dry season lasts from May – October. It is characterised by clear skies, warm days and cool nights. Visit Kakadu at the start of the dry season to see it whilst it is still lush. It is also a good time to visit the Great Barrier Reef because it is still warm but there are no stingers.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Where to Start

The best place to start your solo travel in Australia is in Melbourne. You can fly directly to Melbourne from many of the major international airports around the world. Once you arrive, you can adjust to the welcoming metropolitan environment. Then, you can travel north along Australia’s Eastern Coast.

Alternatively, you could fly into Brisbane and catch a connecting flight to Cairns. From Cairns, you could then travel south along the Eastern Coast.

If you wanted to solo travel New Zealand after touring Australia, it is also preferable to finish your trip on the East Coast. From Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, it is only about a 4-hour flight to Auckland.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: How Long to Spend Travelling Australia

The amount of time that you need to solo travel around Australia depends on which route you take. 

The East Coast of Australia can take anywhere from 1-3 months to travel. Whilst it can be done in as little as 1 month, you will only get to see the highlights and have to travel via flight. It is best to spend about 2-3 months and stop at smaller destinations along the way.

If you want to travel the East Coast of Australia and also see The Outback (e.g. Darwin, Kakadu and Uluru), you would need about 3-4 months.

If you wanted to see all of Australia, including the East Coast, The Outback and Western Australia, you would need about 4-6 months.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Costs and Budgeting

On a backpacker budget, solo travellers can visit Australia for an average cost of $115 per day. On this budget, you would be staying in hostel dorm rooms, preparing most of your own meals, enjoying up to three alcoholic drinks per night, visiting mostly free or cheap attractions and travelling via public transport and coaches.

On a standard budget, solo travellers can visit Australia for an average cost of $275 per day. On this budget, you would be staying in private hostel or motel rooms, eating out once or twice a day, enjoying up to five alcoholic drinks per night, visiting one paid attraction per day and travelling via public transport and domestic flights.

On a luxury budget, solo travellers can visit Australia for an average cost of $550 per day. On this budget, you would be staying in hotels or Airbnb rentals, eating all of your meals out, enjoying a bottle of wine or two per night, visiting two or more paid attractions per day and travelling via Uber, car rental, train or flight.

The average daily costs in the table below are in AUD.

In Australia, the currency used is the Australian dollar ($ AUD). 

Solo travellers can use the following rates (based on a 5-year average) when performing rough conversions:

• $1 AUD = $0.70 USD
• $1 AUD = £0.50 GBP
• $1 AUD = €0.60 EUR
• $1 AUD = $0.90 CAD
• $1 AUD = ¥0.90 JPY

For the most recent conversion rate, use an online currency converter .

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Packing List

There are ten essential items that you must add to your solo travel packing list for Australia:

• Flip-flops: The staple footwear of most Australians. Flip flops will prevent you from burning your feet on the scorching hot pavements and beaches in summer.
• Swimsuit: You’ll spend the majority of your solo travel in Australia swimming on coastal beaches or in Outback swimming holes. Bring a good pair of swimmers.
• Beach towel: In summer, the sand on the beach in Australia can reach temperatures of over 50℃ (122℉) and cause burns. Protect your skin with a beach towel.
• Mosquito repellent: Mosquitos are a problem all over Australia, particularly in the tropical north where they can transmit diseases. Prevent bites with repellent.
• Hydrocortisone anti-scratch cream: You will inevitably be bitten by mosquitos in Australia. Calm the itching with hydrocortisone cream.
• Australian adapter: You have to use a plug-type I adaptor to power your appliances when you solo travel in Australia and New Zealand . 
• Plastic bags: After a trip to the beach, carry your wet clothes around in a plastic bag until you can dry them off that night.
• Sunscreen: In Australia, you can suffer from sunburn in as little as ten minutes. Always slip, slop and slap before enjoying the sun.
• Hat: Sunscreen alone is not always enough to protect your skin from the harsh sun in Australia. Protect your face and neck with a hat.
• Pullover: It’s not always scorching hot in Australia. Temperatures often dip below 0℃ (32℉) in the southern states during winter. Wrap up, particularly at night.

Don’t leave anything behind. Before travelling Australia alone, use my solo travel packing list for males or solo travel packing list for females .

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Safety

Is Australia safe to travel alone?

Solo travel in Australia is very safe for both females and males. Scams, theft and assault are rare. 

Call 000 if you ever need emergency assistance. Cities and towns are patrolled by police and ambulance services are fast to respond.

However, solo travellers should still remain cautious of the following dangers.

Snakes are active in Australia from Spring to Autumn. It is highly unlikely that you will come across a snake during your solo travels. Try to avoid them by making noise, wearing covered footwear and sticking to well-used trails when bushwalking. If you do come across a snake, back away without taking your eyes off it.

Spiders are a concern in Australia throughout the year. You will likely come across spiders during your solo travels. Avoid spiders by shaking out your shoes and clothing before putting them on. Never reach into piles of foliage or places where spiders may live.

In the north of Australia, you need to be aware of crocodiles and jellyfish. Never swim at the beach or in fresh water sources unless there is signage indicating that it is safe to do so. Avoid approaching the edge of the water and keep your distance from crocodile slide marks. Crocodiles are stealth predators and very fast runners over short distances.

Sharks are rarely a danger to swimmers in Australia. However, you can reduce your risk of encountering a shark by swimming close to the shore and between the flags at patrolled beaches. Avoid swimming at dusk or dawn. If you do see a shark, leave the water as quickly and calmly as possible.

Mosquitos are a health risk and can spread disease in Australia (particularly in northern Queensland). Protect yourself when solo travelling by covering up with long-sleeve tops and pants when outside. Apply repellent to exposed skin. Mosquitoes are worst at dusk and dawn. 

Heat and sun

During summer, temperatures in Australia can reach more than 45℃ (113℉). You must stay well hydrated to avoid heat stroke. Try to drink about 2.5L (0.5 gals) of water per day whilst you solo travel.

Australia also has some of the highest levels of UV radiation in the world. Your skin can burn in as little as ten minutes if you don’t properly protect yourself from the sun. Always wear sunscreen when spending more than half an hour outside. On particularly hot days, try to cover up with a hat and long sleeves. 

One of the biggest dangers to tourists in Australia is drowning whilst swimming. Whilst Australia’s beaches are beautiful, the surf is powerful and strong currents can be deadly. Only go swimming in Australia if you are a confident swimmer. And only swim on beaches that are patrolled by lifeguards, staying between the red and yellow flags. 

As mentioned above, you also need to be cautious of crocodiles, jellyfish and sharks when swimming in Australia. Always read the safety signage.

The biggest danger to tourists in Australia is driving and road safety. Drivers often get tired because of the long distances between destinations.

If you plan on driving whilst you solo travel in Australia, break long journeys into small chunks. Stop for a day or two in the regional towns between the major destinations.

Also, ensure that you have filled your car with enough fuel for the journey. Fuel stations can be few and far between in Australia, particularly in the outback.

Solo female safety

Solo female travellers in Australia should generally feel safe throughout their trip. However, as per usual, you should follow these solo travel safety tips .

Less than 1.5% of female travellers in Australia report witnessing or experiencing harassment, abuse or assault during their stay (according to the data above). However, young females as a demographic tend to suffer the most harassment.

See this article on solo travel safety in Australia for more information.

Australia Solo Travel Itinerary: Visas and Entry Requirements

International tourists will need a valid visa to enter Australia. You must apply for a visa before leaving your home country. You’ll also need to meet the designated financial and medical requirements and maintain health insurance for the duration of your trip.

There are several different types of Australian tourist visas. The visa that you apply for will depend on the length of your solo travel in Australia, your passport, your age and whether or not you want to work whilst you travel:

• Visitor visa (600): Visit Australia for tourism for up to three months (or up to 12 months in certain circumstances). Open to all nationalities.
• Electronic Travel Authority visa (601): Visit Australia as often as you want in a 12-month period. You can stay up to 3 months each time you enter Australia. Only available to certain nationalities.
• Working Holiday Visa (417): People aged 18 to 30 years old (or 35 years old for some countries) can visit Australia for up to 12 months and do short-term work to fund their trip. Can only be used once but you can apply for a second Working Holiday visa if you do three months of specified work. Only available to certain nationalities.

Related Posts

Is Australia Safe to Travel Alone? 15 Dangers to Beware

New Zealand Solo Travel – Adventure Itinerary & Guide (2023)

New Zealand Solo Trip Cost (2023)

More solo travel guides and tips on nomadic yak.

You now know almost everything you need to know about travelling solo to Australia!

Nomadic Yak helps solo travellers to plan journeys that are adventurous and authentic.

Every article is written by me, Harry Dale. I’ve travelled to 40+ countries over the last 5 years – alone.

For even more information about solo travel in Australia, see our solo travel tips .

We also have destination guides to help you plan solo travel in nearby countries such as New Zealand.

Creator of Nomadic Yak

At age 22, I had never travelled overseas. Six years later, I have travelled alone through 35 countries and work wherever I like as a freelance writer.

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Solo Travel in Australia: The Best Tips, Tricks and Trips

Australia is full of amazing experiences for solo travellers and has long been a favourite destination for backpackers, students taking gap years and first-time solo travellers. From big cities to the great outdoors, you can find the perfect way to plan your solo travel in Australia with our comprehensive guide.

Is Australia safe for solo travellers

Australia is a very safe country for solo travellers, including female solo travellers and those backpacking Australia alone. The country has robust and easy-to-navigate tourism and transport infrastructures with plenty of excellent destinations for both experienced and beginner solo travellers. Of course, you should always practise due diligence when it comes to keeping your belongings safe and weighing the risks of any activities (and remember, the emergency number in Australia is 000). One risk to bear in mind if you’re travelling in summer is bushfires, which can occur during heat waves. So make sure you keep an eye on local warnings and follow any advice about when to evacuate an area.

Tips for solo travelling in Australia

Australian solo travel is super easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your trip runs as smoothly as possible.

What to bring

The exact guidelines for what you should bring will change depending on where and when you’re going, but there are a few standard things to keep in mind that are particularly good to have. Solid walking shoes are crucial no matter what time of year you’re travelling, and if you’re buying a pair specifically for your trip, make sure you spend some time breaking them in before you leave to help avoid blisters.

Swimwear is crucial for summer travel, and you should remember that the southern beaches are often still a bit chilly, even during summer when the sun isn’t shining bright, so if you can fit a wetsuit, you might appreciate it. Sunscreen and mosquito repellent are two summer essentials that you can easily find at supermarkets and chemists in Australia. However, it’s helpful to have one of each on hand before you go; that way, you only need to worry about stocking up while you’re there.

While much of the southeastern parts of the country roughly follow traditional seasons, elsewhere in the northern parts of Australia, there are two main seasons: wet and dry. The wet season lasts between roughly December and March and the dry season lasts between roughly May and October. You’ll most likely prefer visiting the southern parts of the country between October and March (with the hottest temperatures usually occurring in February and March). If you want to travel around the whole country, then October is a great month to choose as it overlaps with spring in the south of the country and the dry season in the north.

Booking in advance

Booking accommodation and any activities you’ve got your heart set on in advance can help you save money and ensure your trip runs smoothly. It’s a good idea to build at least a loose itinerary about which cities you want to visit and when, so that you can start to get a sense of what sort of budget you’ll need, even if you don’t book right away.

But, of course, Australia is a country full of surprises, and if you’re travelling on your own, there’s a good chance you don’t want to be too tied down to one plan or itinerary. So, if spontaneity is important to you, try to build flexibility into your schedule by booking accommodation with flexible cancellation policies and not planning your days so much that you don’t have room to make changes or add things.

Get to know the public transport

Australia has a robust public transportation system, particularly in its major cities, which is super useful for solo travellers who want to get around without taxis or rideshare apps. Many capital cities have smartcard ticket systems for trains, buses and trams and sometimes these are the only way to pay, so make sure you know where to get one when you arrive (for example, you can buy Sydney’s Opal Cards as soon as you arrive at the airport). Greyhound buses are a great way to move around the country, to major cities and more rural areas, particularly along the east coast. You can get a Greyhound Hop On Hop Off Pass that gives you flexibility.

Consider group activities

Solo travel is an amazing experience where you get to enjoy your adventure on your terms, but you might also be looking to socialise and get to know some fellow travellers. That’s when Australian tours for singles can be a great idea. In major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, you can often find free group tours run by local volunteers. You can also consider group activities like classes or workshops, such as surfing classes in Sydney or scuba diving tours in the Great Barrier Reef.

Where to go and what to do

Australia is jam-packed with fantastic, tourist-friendly locations that are amazing to explore as a solo traveller. We’ve listed just a few below, but it’s by no means an exhaustive list. Check out our guide to The Best Places to Visit in Australia to get even more inspiration for where to go and what to do.

Get to know Sydney

Sydney is one of Australia’s most popular cities, with iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Consider heading to Bondi Beach, one of the world’s best surfing locations where you can ride the waves or relax on the beach (never surfed before? Bondi has plenty of surf schools where total beginners can learn the basics). Sydney also has a number of beautiful green spaces, like the Royal Botanic Garden and Lane Cove National Park. Foodies will love Sydney for its wide range of great eateries, boasting both authentic and innovative offerings from all around the world.

Explore Booderee National Park

Booderee is a beautiful national park on the Pacific Ocean, where lush forests meet soft sand beaches and clear blue water. Discover unique native wildlife and get stunning views from the dramatic cliffs that line the shores before spending the night at one of the park’s camping grounds. There are multiple beach options, including Murray’s and Whiting, some of which you can reach via scenic hikes. In addition, you should visit Booderee Botanic Gardens, the only Aboriginal-owned botanic garden in Australia.

Experience the best of Melbourne

Melbourne and its surrounding areas are a great way to begin solo travel in Australia, with delicious food, excellent coffee and plenty of fun experiences. You’ll find cosy laneway cafes, incredible street art and unique boutiques in the city. Melbourne is home to some excellent galleries and museums, including the National Gallery of Victoria, the Melbourne Museum and Scienceworks. St Kilda and Brighton are where you can find great beachside experiences and the Brighton Bathing Boxes are an adorable, picture-perfect sight.

Discover the Great Outdoors in and around Cairns

Cairns is one of Australia’s best locations for solo travellers who love to get outdoors and do lots of fun activities. Cairns makes an excellent base for two of Australia’s most incredible natural wonders: the Daintree Forest and the Great Barrier Reef. Take a river cruise through the Daintree and a diving tour of the Great Barrier Reef to see the region’s wildlife up close, including rare birds, goannas, manta rays and turtles. The Kuku Yalanji people have inhabited the Daintree forest region for at least 50,000 years, and you can get to know the area with a local Kuku Yalanji guide.

Swim with Dolphins and Seals at Baird Bay, South Australia

Here’s an utterly unforgettable experience you can have while travelling Australia alone: swimming with dolphins and sea lions. At Baird Bay on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, you can get to know these gorgeous, totally wild sea creatures in their natural habitat. You can choose between non-swimming tours, where you stay on board (and mostly dry), and swimming tours, where you don a wetsuit and snorkelling gear to get up close and personal with the sea lions and dolphins. It’s a combined tour, so you don’t have to choose which animals to meet, and tours run from September to May. Make sure you book in advance, especially between December and February.

Where to stay in Australia

You’ll have plenty of options for places to stay when you’re travelling around Australia, with options to suit a range of budgets. We’ve listed some of the best hotels and hostels below but don’t forget that many areas have excellent camping grounds where you can sleep under the stars.

Hostels in Australia

Hostels are an excellent option for solo travellers as they provide both budget accommodation and a hub where you can meet up with fellow travellers (who are often likely to be solo travellers too). ‘Base’ is one of the most common hostel chains in the country, and their St Kilda location in Melbourne is particularly excellent; it’s close to the beach with a bar and barbecue. ‘Wake Up!’ in Sydney and ‘Gilligan’s Backpacker and Hostel Resort’ in Cairns are two excellent, slightly more upscale options that offer both dorm beds and private rooms. If you’re staying in any remotely popular tourist location in Australia, you’re sure to find a comfortable hostel where you can lay your head at night.

Hotels in Australia

If you have a bit more room in your budget for accommodation, you can find great hotels in any of Australia’s major cities with a range of prices on offer. For example, in Melbourne, the PARKROYAL is a high-quality option close to Melbourne Airport, and the Quincy Hotel provides comfortable luxury in the CBD. In Sydney, the Shangri-La is one of the best luxury hotels in Australia, while the Great Southern is an excellent, more budget-friendly option. You can find Great Southern hotels all throughout Australia.

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10 helpful tips for travelling solo in Australia

Amanda Woods

Travel Journalist

16 February 2023

Travelling solo is an art that takes a bit of fine-tuning, but once you get it right, you’ll never want to stop.

Whether you’re excited or terrified by the prospect of solo travel in Australia, here are some top tips to help get you on your way.  

1. Embrace the unknown

When you’re going somewhere you’ve never been before it’s comforting to have a familiar face along for the ride. But rather than worrying about going it alone, see it as a chance find out just what you’re capable of when you’re the only one in the driver’s seat.

You’ll be surprised what you can do when you travel solo. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Plan ahead but don’t panic if those plans don’t go as smoothly as you’d hoped. If the last few years have taught us anything it’s that we can’t control everything in life and flexibility is key. Stay open to where any twists and turns may take you. It may not be where you set out to go, but you could come home with even better memories and stories.   

Stay open to whatever opportunities come your way. (Image: Tourism Australia)

2. Talk to strangers

Some people can happily talk to anyone, anywhere. For others conversations are things best saved for people they already know and love. Depending on the day I could be in either of these camps and can happily spend days talking to no one, or find myself chatting to strangers about anything under the sun.  

When you’re travelling solo there’s a lot to be said for talking to strangers. If they’re local they can tell you more about the place you’re visiting. If they’re a fellow traveller you can swap tales and tips.

To stay on the safe side,  don’t tell people you’ve just met that you’re travelling alone. A phantom partner who’s either back in the hotel room or about to meet you for dinner can help create a safety buffer until you’re confident you’re in the right kind of company.   

If you’re a bit rusty on the striking-up conversations with strangers side of things try asking them questions about their favourite things to do, see and eat around town. If they like to chat you could be there for hours. And if they don’t then thank them for their short reply and let them get back to their day.    

You’ll learn a lot by speaking to strangers. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Enjoy dining alone

Solomangarephobia is a fear of eating alone in public and while I’ve never known that fear I know what it’s like to feel other people looking at me when I’m dining alone, especially when I treat myself to a solo meal in a good restaurant .   

If you’re worried about eating by yourself a counter seat or a seat at the bar can be a great option. I’ve had some very entertaining conversations with chefs, bar staff and fellow single diners at a counter seat. 

Just because you’re on your own, doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to a gourmet meal. (Image: Tourism Australia)

As easy as it is to disappear into your phone, force yourself to put your devices away and  take in where you are. Really taste that food that you’ve never eaten before. Even if it’s an old favourite dish, you’ve never had it here so how does it compare?   

If you’d rather have some kind of distraction bring a book or magazine, or take the time to write in a travel journal or catch up on postcards rather than scrolling social media.   

Try to embrace your solo dining experience rather than escaping into your phone. (Image: Tourism Australia)

4. Be patient

With yourself and with others. When you step out of your comfort zone you’re bound to have some frustrating moments. Whether it’s failing to immediately grasp a new public transport system or getting lost after taking a wrong turn, take a breath and reboot. Allow extra time for figuring some things out slowly and be kind to yourself when you get things wrong.

Extend the same courtesies to everyone you meet on your travels. Some things may not be done as quickly as you’re used to back home, but with so many short-staffed businesses around Australia, the people behind the counters are the ones who turned up and are doing their best.

Step out of your comfort zone. (Image: Tourism Australia)

5. Pack your hiking boots

Really get to know a special corner of Australia on two feet. You can either be inspired by Cheryl Strayed’s Wild experience and go completely solo, or if you’re like me and want to walk the walk but not pitch your own tent you can join a guided hike. 

The spectacular mountain view on top is worth the hike. (Image: Spicers Scenic Rim)

As a solo traveller on  Spicer’s Scenic Rim Trail ,  I was able to hike 88km up and along Queensland ’s Great Dividing Range with nothing more than a day pack. As well as having the security and safety of a guide I loved the chance to get to know fellow hikers both on the trail and over drinks and dinners every night.

Safely traverse the Spicers Scenic Rim trail with a hiking guide. (Image: Spicers Scenic Rim)

There are short and long walks to find around Australia including Tasmania ’s Bay of Fires Lodge Walk, South Australia ’s Arkaba Walk and the Northern Territory ’s Larapinta Trek , and some companies offer no single supplement deals so you don’t have to pay more to go solo.   

The Arkaba Walk is great for solo travellers. (Image: Wild Bush Luxury / Great Walks of Australia)

6. Join a group

If your friends and family aren’t interested in joining you on your dream trip but you’d rather not go it alone, a group holiday could be the answer. When I joined an  Inspiring Journeys  tour I went from an Indigenous tour of the Daintree and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef to seeing Field of Light at Uluru at hiking Kings Canyon at sunrise.

Kings Canyon is a true spectacle you don’t want to miss. (Image: Inspiring Journeys)

As well as handing over all of the logistics to the experts, you’ll get the chance to share the trip with other travellers. Companies will often know the best things to do in any location and have tickets to events or experiences that can sell out in advance.

Companies will know the best things to do in any location. (Image: Tourism Australia)

With tours tailored to different kinds of travelling styles as well as destinations, you may even meet some like-minded travel friends for future adventures. 

Tours are tailored to different kinds of travelling styles. (Image: Walkabout Cultural Adventures)

7. Set sail

Another way to go it alone without really going it alone. I’ve enjoyed cabins for one on boats and ships that have had anywhere from 10 to 4,000 passengers. Sailing solo gives you a chance to be as social or as quiet as you like and at meals there’s almost always a table where you can join other people or you can simply request to dine alone.   

Cruising is a good way to meet other people while travelling. (Image: Tourism Australia)

As with group tours you don’t have to worry about orchestrating any plans, and on a ship you don’t have to keep packing and unpacking your bags either. On a tour around Tasmania’s wild coast with  Coral Expeditions I was able to see wilderness spots I couldn’t have reached by car and after sharing travel tales over meals I could retire to my cabin alone.

Australia’s powdery white beaches have sparkling emerald blue waters. (Image: Coral Expeditions)

Coral Expeditions are among the cruise companies that offer to match single guests with people of the same gender to avoid single supplements, and also have a Standby Singles offer where you could get a cabin to yourself with no single supplement depending on availability.   

Look around for a cruise line that doesn’t charge more for singles. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Some cruise lines including  Cunard  and  Celebrity Cruises  also have solo staterooms built for one but as single cabins and fares are limited it’s best to book well ahead.   

Some cruise lines have solo staterooms. (Image: Tourism Australia)

8. Be beach smart

Australian beaches are pretty sweet places to get away from it all and while most people can be trusted unfortunately there are times when you shouldn’t just put your valuables in your shoes when you go for a dip. Well, that’s unless they’re a pair of reef or waterproof shoes with pockets. Then you’re good to go.

Beaching solo is great fun, just make sure you do it safely. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Some beaches have lockers but when they don’t you’re best off leaving valuables either in the hotel safe or hidden in the car if you’re between rooms on a road trip . A waterproof phone pouch can fit your phone, room card and a little cash when you go for a swim, or you can also buy a small portable safe to attach to a table or umbrella.   

If you decide to bury your things in the sand make sure you’re subtle about it and use a zip-lock bag. And if there’s a lifeguard on duty get a spot in front of them as most thieves will avoid areas where they think someone is watching.  

Hear the soft sounds of the waves caressing the shore.

9. Stay safe

Even though Australia is a pretty safe country to travel around it’s still a good idea to do some simple things to help make your solo trip a safe one.   

Pop a rubber doorstop in your bag for those times when your hotel room doesn’t have a deadbolt or security latch. They’re small and light and can stop an intruder in their tracks.   

I like to tell empty hotel rooms that I’ll see them soon and then say I’m back when I open the door so that it looks like I’m not alone. Asking for two keys at check-in if there’s anyone else around is also a good idea.  

Resist sharing where you are on social media until you’ve checked out. I once shared a drink with two influencers who discovered to their horror that the champagne that was sent to their room wasn’t from hotel management but from a man who liked their latest Instagram story a bit too much.  

And while smart international readers will already have this covered a tip for our fellow Australians. While you may only think about travel insurance when you’re heading overseas it can come in very handy in your own country too. Domestic travel insurance policies can kick in when you’re anywhere between 50 and 250km from home and depending on the policy could cover you for delays and cancellations and lost or damaged belongings.   

Make sure you feel comfy and secure in your hotel room.

10. Have fun

And finally, in a world where so many of our decisions involve friends, family and work enjoy every moment of a trip that’s all about you.   

Solo travel allows you to choose everything you do from the places you go and the things you see to what time you want to have breakfast in the morning and go to bed at night. And if you decide at the last minute to turn that 7 am breakfast into an 11 am brunch, that’s okay too.  

Solo travel allows you to go at your own pace. (Image: Tourism Australia)

It’s self-indulgent in the best of possible ways, and as well as discovering new things in new places, you may find that you learn a lot about yourself on the way too. 

Be self-indulgent, you deserve it. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Amanda Woods is a travel writer based in New England high country in NSW. She’s travelled from Antarctica to the Arctic and loves to inspire people to get out and explore this big beautiful world of ours. She has a passion for regenerative, sustainable and mindful travel and has some big Australian travel dreams for the future.

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Comments (2)

You only have one life embrace your wishes and travel enjoy life unexpected vista and people

Thank you for the great tips, I will definitely try them.

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Party of One: How to Plan a Solo Trip in Australia

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Travelling solo in Australia is an excellent way to learn more about yourself while having the adventure of a lifetime. See Australia’s breathtaking sights, embrace your independence and make memories that will last you a lifetime – sounds pretty great, doesn’t it? Of course, getting the most out of your solo travel experience takes some planning. Use these handy tips to learn how to plan a solo trip in Australia with ease.

Is Australia safe to travel alone? 

As far as solo travel destinations go, Australia is high on the list. Known for its friendly residents and laid-back lifestyle, Australia is absolutely a safe country to travel in alone. However, the safest solo trips in Australia are the ones where safety precautions are top of mind. Here are a few tips and tricks to make your solo travel experience as safe as possible: 

• Ensure somebody always knows where you are – Whether a friend or family member, have a contact person you regularly check in with at an agreed-upon time. Make sure this person knows your travel itinerary. That way, if you don’t get in touch when you said you would, they can take steps to check in on you.
• Travel during the day – This tip is particularly important for those embarking on solo road trips in Australia . Don’t travel on your own at night if you can avoid it.
• Be water safe – Australian beaches are home to unpredictable conditions. Swim at patrolled beaches and stay between the flags. Read more about safety practices on Australian beaches and swimming safety in general.
• Have a well-planned itinerary – When travelling solo in Australia, you don’t want to get somewhere on your own in the middle of the night. Make sure you plan how you’ll get from one place to another well in advance.
• Make two copies of your most important documents – This includes documents like your passport, visa and health insurance. Leave one with a trusted friend or family member and take one with you (along with the original). Keep them in separate areas of your luggage and always take your valuables with you.

Best places to travel solo in Australia   

So, what are some of the best solo travel destinations in Australia? The answer will depend on your interests, budget, location, safety concerns, and how much time you have available for your holiday. 

From a safety perspective, Australian major cities are typically well-connected and well surveilled, making them relatively safe destinations. Some of Australia’s most popular cities include Sydney , Melbourne , Perth and Adelaide . Australia is also home to a number of smaller coastal cities that are generally very safe for solo travellers, including the Gold Coast and Cairns .

If it’s a more rural experience you’re after, it may be worth joining a tour group, so you’re not entirely alone in remote parts of the country. You may also need more time to explore these regions as they are quite isolated. Some examples of attractive (and safe) regional areas include Newcastle , Toowoomba and Mildura .

Accommodation 

What kind of accommodation you’ll feel most comfortable in is primarily a question of budget. Solo trip costs can add up quickly, so if you’re on a tight budget , you might want to consider a bed in a shared hostel room. While these rooms offer minimal privacy, they tend to be pretty cheap. Shared rooms are also an excellent option for those looking to socialise. There are often communal kitchen facilities and living rooms where you can sit and chat with fellow travellers.

If you want more room to yourself, check out private rooms in hostels or hotel rooms. These will be more expensive, but the price may well be worth the reward of sinking into a soft bed and sleeping soundly after a long travel day. 

Socialising as a solo traveller 

Travelling solo in Australia can get a bit lonely at times, so you may be keen to meet new people. Aside from meeting fellow travellers in your accommodation, you can also check out sites like Meetup for events near you. Meetups are often targeted at people with similar interests, so be sure to download the app and take a look.

If you’re after a more personal relationship, check out Bumble BFF . Based on the popular Bumble dating app, this platform allows you to find platonic friends.

Another option is to check out local Facebook groups and events once you arrive at your destination. To refine your search, filter by interests or area; from there, you can browse the listings to see if there’s anything of interest. 

Be kind to yourself

If you’re trying to figure out how to plan a solo trip, remember that self-compassion is key. Travelling by yourself is a learning experience and it can bring many different emotions. Don’t beat yourself up if you feel lonely, scared or bored – these are normal feelings that all solo travellers encounter. But the prize of travelling by yourself is the personal growth that comes with it – and it’s well worth any feelings of discomfort along the way.

Janina Waldmann

Janina is a freelance content and copywriter based in Sydney, Australia. A lover of all things language and culture, she graduated from the University of Technology Sydney with a communications degree in writing and cultural studies. Recent years have seen her delve headfirst into the international student experience while living and studying in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Janina lives in Sydney’s inner west and enjoys sharing her love for this part of the world with the Insider Guides audience.

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The 10 Best Places to Visit Alone in Australia

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I’m back with another solo travel-focused post today. This time, we’re talking about my favourite solo travel destinations in Australia for solo weekend getaways. Here are my recommendations for the best places to visit in Australia alone.

My solo travels are not limited to overseas destinations. Yes, I’ve travelled solo across Europe and North America . But I’ve also visited many Australian cities alone as well. Don’t be daunted by solo travel in Australia , because I guarantee you can have a great time Down Under with or without a travel companion. Based on my personal experience (and wishlist), here are the best places to visit in Australia alone. Can you tell I’m a Queenslander? 😂

Note:  Australia is a big country and most people will recommend hiring a vehicle to see all the best sights: from cute country towns to cosmopolitan cities. However, I chose these Australian solo travel destinations as you can visit them without hiring a car and still have an unforgettable vacation.

The best places to visit in Australia for solo travellers

1. melbourne.

Let’s start with my current home, Melbourne. Thanks to the immense amount of things to do and its great public transport network, I believe Melbourne is one of the best places to visit in Australia if travelling alone. However, I would recommend spending more than just a solo weekend here. Some of my favourite things to do in Melbourne include visiting St Kilda , having brunch and a browse of the boutiques in Fitzroy, spotting street art in the CBD and going for walks through the city’s many gardens. You also shouldn’t leave Melbourne without doing a trip along the Great Ocean Road . I did an organised tour a few years ago and thought it was excellent.

Where to stay in Melbourne : I have a post on where to stay in Melbourne . But my parents have stayed at the Atlantis – great location, good price and comfortable beds. I also recently stayed at Space Hotel , which has dorms and private rooms. The central hostel is fantastic and has a rooftop deck, lounge and gym. I’ll be back on return visits to Melbourne for sure.

Read more : Where to eat in Melbourne , free things to do and general things to do , where to take the best photos and other day trips to check out.

St Kilda sunsets in Melbourne, one of the best places to visit in Australia alone.

2. Magnetic Island

This may be a surprise entry, but I had to include Magnetic Island on this list of solo weekend getaways in Australia. Located a 20-minute ferry ride from my hometown, Townsville, this is where my parents live. It’s one of the best solo travel destinations in Australia because it’s made for tourists. With public buses and two great hostels located in different bays, Magnetic Island is one of the best places to visit in Australia if you’re travelling alone.

On Magnetic Island, I recommend doing the Forts Walk, seeing the sunset at Horseshoe Bay, feeding the rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay and swimming at Alma Bay. You can get to Townsville by flying or taking the Greyhound bus from two other destinations on this list: Cairns and Airlie Beach. The bus even drops you directly at the ferry terminal – now that’s convenience 😉.

Where to stay on Magnetic Island : Bungalow Bay or Base are the two hostels I mentioned. Bungalow Bay is probably my favourite though, purely because it’s located in Horseshoe Bay.

Read more : Things to do on Magnetic Island, favourite photo locations and where to find koalas .

Yes, you can hire a car like this on a solo weekend getaway to Magnetic Island.

Ah, Melbourne’s rival and Australia’s biggest city. Sydney is another one of Australia’s best solo travel destinations. Although I think Melbourne has more things to do, Sydney does have the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach. However, I found that it takes longer to get places in Sydney when using public transport, so be prepared. You can get the bus to Bondi and do the Bondi to Bronte Walk. Then you can hop on the train to Instagram’s favourite place: The Grounds of Alexandria .

Where to stay in Sydney : Can we talk about the epic views from both Bondi Backpackers and Sydney Harbour YHA ?! They’re also top-rated on Hostelworld, which is what matters most to me.

Read more : Fun things to do in Sydney

Bondi, baby

As you’ll see with these places to visit in Australia, I only recommend hostels for solo travellers. Read this post for my top hostel tips and check out this post for great ways to meet people when travelling alone.

I know Hobart isn’t the first place you think of visiting on a solo weekend getaway in Australia. But if you have the time, it’s a short flight from Melbourne and a totally different city. It’s home to beautiful architecture, Australia’s most unique museum and some delicious food. I recommend visiting Mount Wellington, getting up close to Aussie animals at Bonorong Sanctuary and wandering around Salamanca.

Where to stay in Hobart : I stayed at The Pickled Frog and wouldn’t recommend staying anywhere else. They offer free day trips to MONA and Mount Wellington, and the hostel is conveniently located in the CBD.

Read more : A visit to Mount Wellington , top things to do and where to eat in Hobart.

Views from Hobart’s Mount Wellington

So Cairns is located a five-hour drive north of Townsville (the two cities have been frenemies forever). Thanks to its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, it’s the fourth most-visited destination in Australia. Because it’s such a tourist hotspot, Cairns is also one of the best places to visit in Australia when travelling solo. The city centre is compact and easily walkable, and there are plenty of tours available. Top attractions near Cairns include Port Douglas, Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge, Kuranda and Fitzroy Island . You could easily spend a week enjoying Cairns and its surrounds.

Where to stay in Cairns : I’ve stayed at Gilligan’s before for a friend’s 21st and it’s a total party hostel (there’s an onsite nightclub). If that’s not your style these days (I feel you), check out Traveller’s Oasis .

Read more : All the things to do in Cairns and you must do a Fitzroy Island day trip .

Taking in Fitzroy Island.

6. Adelaide

I did a solo weekend getaway to Adelaide in South Australia in 2018. It was my first time in the city and I really enjoyed my long weekend. I found there were plenty of things to do, the people were very friendly and the public transport network was great. Any city with cheap public buses to the airport is a winner in my book. Don’t miss visiting Glenelg Beach at sunset, checking out the free museums and art galleries, and heading to Hahndorf for lunch.

Where to stay in Adelaide : I stayed at the Adelaide Central YHA in a female dorm room and would stay there again.

Read more : My Adelaide weekend guide includes all the good stuff.

Henley Beach sunset in Adelaide

If you’re wondering what to pack, here’s a comprehensive list of my travel essentials

7. brisbane.

Brisbane was my home from 2012 to 2013 – before I ran away to Vancouver . I used to visit the city all the time when I lived in Townsville and have returned a few times in recent years. Although there are things to keep you occupied within the city over a weekend, the reason Brisbane makes this list of places to visit in Australia alone is that it’s sandwiched between the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. Although it’s easier to drive to these locations, catching the train from Brisbane to both coasts is possible. Use Brisbane as a base and do a beach-hopping day trip to either coast (although I’ll always be partial to the Sunny Coast ).

Where to stay in Brisbane : I’ve stayed at Brisbane City YHA , Breeze Lodge and the ibis . I’d go with the YHA for price and location.

Read more : My ultimate Brisbane guide and snapshots from a weekend in Brisbane .

Fun fact: I was born in Perth. My family lived in WA (with a brief stint in NSW) until I was nine, which is when we moved to Queensland. We’d regularly return to Perth to visit my grandparents, but I haven’t been back since 2012. Nonetheless, if you find yourself across the country in Western Australia, Perth is worth a visit. If you’re based on the East Coast though, Perth is a bit far to go for a solo weekend getaway. While in Perth, I recommend checking out King’s Park, beach-hopping, doing a day trip to Rottnest Island or Margaret River , and visiting Fremantle as well.

Where to stay in Perth : The reviews for this place are something else.

Cottesloe Beach // Source

9. Whitsundays

When I was a kid, I totally took for granted the fact we got to spend our school holidays in the Whitsundays on a couple of occasions. It’s hands down one of the most beautiful places to visit in Australia – whether you’re travelling alone or not. Thankfully, you can easily get from Whitsunday Coast Airport to Airlie Beach via a shuttle, and then from there, the 74 Whitsunday Islands are your oyster. Do a day trip out to the Great Barrier Reef, spend the day lazing by the Airlie Beach Lagoon (where I got majorly sunburnt one Christmas Eve) or head to Hamilton Island for the weekend. You won’t regret visiting the Whitsundays.

Where to stay in Airlie Beach : Magnums is located in the heart of Airlie Beach, where everything is within walking distance.

Read more : The best places to visit in Queensland to see the Great Barrier Reef.

Airlie Beach

If you’re looking for more than just places to visit in Australia alone, check out my similar USA guide and my favourite solo travel destinations around the world.

10. byron bay.

Finally, Byron Bay in Northern New South Wales is the one destination on this list of the best places to visit in Australia alone that I still haven’t visited . I know, I know. But, I plan on heading there for a solo weekend getaway, eventually. Like the Whitsundays, you can easily get a shuttle from Ballina Byron Airport to Byron Bay. Once in town, I’ve heard you can see a lot on foot. I think I’d spend my time in Byron Bay alternating between relaxing at the beach and eating delicious food.

Where to stay in Byron Bay : As you can see from this post, I’m partial to a YHA because they always serve me well. There’s Byron Bay YHA , but Wake Up! Byron Bay also has stellar reviews. OMG, I want to go!

Hopefully one of these places to visit in Australia suits you and your solo weekend getaway needs.

Did any of these Australian solo travel destinations surprise you? No matter how long you visit Australia or where you go, I think you’re guaranteed to want to return for more. If there are other Aussie blog posts you’d like to see on Hayley on Holiday, please let me know in the comments below or find me on Instagram .

Follow along: Facebook | Twitter | Bloglovin’ | Instagram | Pinterest

P.S. Do you sea (😉) a theme in these photos? It was unintentional, but apparently, I’m a sucker for a good Aussie beach.

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Reader interactions.

September 11, 2022 at 10:19 pm

Seriously? This is just a list of capital cities – disappointing!

September 29, 2022 at 3:54 pm

Sorry you feel disappointed but 4/10 places are actually not capital cities?

March 3, 2022 at 10:40 am

great guide! I’m looking to visit Australia solo soon and this was very helpful.

March 8, 2022 at 9:53 am

Thanks so much – happy travels 😊.

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Is Traveling Alone in Australia a Good Idea? 10 Compelling Reasons for Solo Travel

Is traveling alone in Australia a good idea? For many, the thought of setting off solo on an adventure to the land Down Under can be both exhilarating and daunting. However, Australia, with its welcoming culture, diverse landscapes, and well-established backpacker trail, presents an ideal setting for solo travelers. The country is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world for travelers. Its political stability, low crime rate, and robust healthcare system mean that solo travelers can feel secure exploring this vast land. Here are 10 compelling reasons why embarking on a solo journey to Australia could be one of the best decisions you ever make.

Table of Contents

Independence

Traveling solo allows you to revel in complete independence and freedom . Solo travel in Australia means you have the freedom to make spontaneous decisions without having to compromise. Want to spend an extra day exploring a hidden beach or take a detour to a secluded national park? The choice is yours. Traveling solo eliminates the conflicts that can arise when traveling with companions and frees you from making compromises on your travel wishlist. After all, Australia beckons with the promise of freedom, right? While a bit of company and assistance can be beneficial, you can still enjoy the advantages of independence, especially when taking road trips in your own vehicle while maintaining the flexibility to connect with fellow travelers along the way.

Traveling alone challenges you in the best way possible. It fosters independence, boosts confidence, and offers ample time for personal reflection.

Find a job easily

Securing employment in Australia can be challenging, especially when multiple people are job hunting simultaneously. Employers are typically less inclined to hire multiple candidates simultaneously, with few exceptions on large farms. When traveling with friends or as a couple, some individuals in the group may find jobs more quickly than others, leading to discrepancies in spending and lifestyle pacing. On the contrary, solo job seekers have a higher likelihood of landing a job and commencing work promptly. This translates into longer, well-compensated working hours and more opportunities for saving. If you plan to complete your 88 days of regional work to extend your Working Holiday Visa (WHV), consider undertaking this endeavor solo, as it provides ample time to forge connections in your new workplace.

Be more flexible

Solo travel inherently offers greater flexibility. You can make impromptu decisions with ease. Have an opportunity to work 1,000 kilometers away? No problem, you can be there the next day. Just met people who invite you on a spontaneous road trip? You’re in! Flexibility is a crucial asset when traveling or working for extended periods, allowing you to spontaneously choose your path. You can set off on a whim or change your mind just five minutes later, and no one will judge you. Embrace the fluidity of travel!

Resilience and Self-Sufficiency

A year-long journey to Australia is an adventure that often necessitates mastering a range of day-to-day responsibilities and more “adult” tasks. As a solo traveler, you’ll confront and conquer challenges as they arise on your journey, which significantly boosts your self-confidence. Finding a job, securing accommodations, opening a bank account, filing tax declarations—these essential tasks make you fully independent. You’ll discover that achieving these feats on the other side of the world will make similar tasks back home seem remarkably easy. For female travelers, there’s no need to fear solo travel in Australia; it’s a safe environment that fosters newfound independence.

Self-Discovery

Traveling alone is not only a physical journey but also an inner one. It forces you to come face-to-face with yourself, facilitating a deeper understanding of your desires, strengths, and weaknesses. A year in Australia offers a unique opportunity to pause and reflect on your personal, professional, and even romantic aspirations. Your decision to move to the other side of the world often stems from deeper motivations, such as disappointments in love, family, or work. The quest to find oneself or someone else may require time to comprehend and acknowledge. Embrace this journey as it contributes to personal development and self-discovery.

Meeting new friends

Australia’s well-trodden backpacker route means you’re never far from fellow solo adventurers . Hostels, guided tours, and social events specifically catered to solo travelers make it easy to meet new friends. Upon arriving in Australia, you’re likely to stay at hostels, where meeting fellow travelers is effortless. As you seek share housing or commence jobs, you’ll continually make new friends. Traveling inherently piques people’s curiosity, sparking conversations and facilitating interactions, often unintentionally. You’re never truly alone in the world of solo travel.

The potential for Love and Partnerships

Sometimes, traveling alone leads to unexpected partnerships . Many couples meet while exploring Australia, and their journeys can culminate in various ways. Some return home together, others venture to new countries, and some decide to make Australia their permanent home. Through shared experiences, work opportunities, settling down, or common life goals, travelers often find common ground and life takes surprising turns.

Book a ticket, get a tan, fall in love, never return 

Assimilate into local society

Travelling solo makes it easier to meet locals and, eventually, assimilate better . Those who work as “Au Pairs” are a good example. They live with a local family, share house chores or look after children, while learning about the culture and the way of life, slowly becoming real Australians themselves! It’s a great chance to understand the young Australian daily culture. Having local contacts also makes it possible to make good plans for trips, work tips, cultural insights etc.

Avoiding incompatibility issues

Traveling to Australia as a couple or with friends can stress the bonds that bind you together and may lead to unexpected incompatibilities. The journey may confront you with uncomfortable situations , challenging decisions, and the need to either assert your preferences or accept the choices of others. Living together 24/7, especially in a small space like a van or 4WD, can strain relationships. Some friendships and romances may not withstand the rigors of long-term travel, as the lifestyle drastically differs from the comforts of daily life in your home country.

Inspire others

Travelling solo across Australia or other countries will definitely inspire your friends or the people you meet along your journey! It can also be a great opportunities for your friends to join you for a small part of a trip! They might even take their own journey once they see how much fun you are having.

Bonus Reason: Get a taste for adventure

Leaving behind routines and stability can be challenging, particularly after settling into a secure job, a comfortable home, and familial ties. However, the allure of adventure beckons! Traveling solo in Australia promises a voyage filled with novel experiences —discovering new cultures, landscapes, and wildlife. You’ll learn to fend for yourself, traverse vast distances, encounter kangaroos and koalas, build campfires in the heart of the desert, connect with people from various nationalities, repair your own 4×4, construct a solar shower, and much more. Adventure awaits you in the vast expanses of Australia, where you’ll navigate diverse and exhilarating situations, cultivating your taste for novelty, exploration, and adrenaline.

How do I prepare to travel to Australia alone?

If you’re planning to embark on a solo journey to Australia, meticulous preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and stress-free arrival:

• Research and familiarize yourself with the necessary administrative formalities before departure and upon arrival in Australia.
• Ensure that all your identity documents , particularly your passport and driving license, are up-to-date.
• Book accommodations , such as hostels, hotels, or Airbnb, for your first week in Australia to help you adjust to jetlag. Hostels are great for meeting fellow travelers, and homestays allow you to experience local life.
• Join online self-help Facebook groups and explore various travel blogs to gather information and insights.
• Take the time to gain an overall understanding of your upcoming adventure.

To learn more, read our article:  Things to know before going to Australia – Prepare for your work & travel

While solo travel anywhere comes with its challenges, Australia’s welcoming culture, diverse landscapes, and safe environment make it an ideal destination for those looking to venture on their own. Whether it’s your first solo trip or you’re a seasoned solo adventurer, Australia promises an unforgettable experience.

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The Best Solo Trips In Australia To Take This Year

By Anna May

26th May 2023

Gorgeous gorgeous girls and boys love solo travel. It’s not that they hate people, no. Or that people are annoying, no no. It’s just that sometimes (or a lot of the time) the best company is yourself. 

Picture it: a book, a fabulous Airbnb and the ultimate getaway to reacquaint yourself with the best person in your life (you). But, we hear you ask, action! Adventure! Doing! Things!

Worry not, grasshopper, we’ve curated a list of unmissable experiences that add up to Australia’s best solo travel getaways. Get bookin’. 

The Best Solo Travel In Tasmania

Shuck oysters on the freycinet peninsula.

There are times when taking a moment for yourself is a must, and one of those is while enjoying a fresh-from-the-ocean oyster in the waters of Tassie’s Freycinet Peninsula. Whether you rock those sexy wading overalls like Rhianna rocks pregnancy or you’d rather no-one important ever saw it, you can’t deny shucking oysters in knee-deep water while sipping riesling isn’t an absolute flex. So get your wellies on and understand why the oyster life chose you. But the fun doesn’t stop there, oh no. You can Kayak Great Oyster Bay, hike to Wineglass Bay, or simply be at one with yourself. You make the rules.

Where to stay: Sunsets A Frame Beach House

Chase The Aurora Australis

If bearing witness to the dancing wonder of these The Southern Lights , the cousin to the Arctic’s Northern lights, has been on your bucket list for years, consider this your sign to do it, and do it all by yourself. Because what greater gift to your soul and retinas could there be? You’ll have to head there in Winter, so bundle up warm, and do some research to make sure you’re headed to the right spot, this Facebook group is an excellent resource. Our insiders tell us Evandale is a good place to start, because staying away from city lights is key to seeing this celestial nightclub. 

Where to stay: Blackwood Tree Cottage

The Best Solo Travel In NSW

Explore booderee national park.

Impossibly blue waters are a given in Jervis Bay, just a three-hour cruise from Sydney (which is ample time for a solid main character energy car concert if you ask us) and home Booderee National Park , a haven for solo traveller delights to see and do. And do you shall: Car entry is a casual $13. From there you can take your sweet solo time getting to know the place: take in the history and wildlife of Booderee Botanic Gardens, the only Aboriginal-owned botanic gardens in Australia, snorkel through the sapphire-blue waters at Murray’s Beach and spot the rays, or take the two-hour hike through the park to Whiting Beach and see if you can spot the waterfall. You might even catch sight of some whales if you time it right.

Where to stay: Jervis Bay Beachside Cottage

Take On Some Luxury Clay Making In Gerringong 

There's not much the South Coast doesn't offer but when it comes to indulging in a spot of solo travel, this region really is your safe space. If you're driving down from Sydney, the lone drive will be short and sweet but long enough to make you feel like you're out of the hustle and bustle from the Big Smoke. We suggest hitting Gerringong for some seaside and wholesome vibes. You've also got Werri Beach and Werri Lagoon for a spot of swimming and beach reading, plus Natural Necessity for any retail therapy you want to get out of your system (it also hybrids as a super cute cafe). To really edge your wholesomeness to whole new levels, book a luxury clay experience  to settle back into your creative juices. 

Where to stay: Infinity Tiny Home

The Best Solo Travel In Victoria

Take a bike tour of the mornington peninsula.

Taking in the sights, sips, and flavours of vine-tangled stunner that is lady Mornington Peninsula can be enjoyed with company, sure, but doing it on your own terms (i.e. lingering at the local cheese shop) sounds friggin’ great if you ask us. Which is why this self-guided bike tour is such a banger: you rock up, grab your bike and your map, then explore at your own pace. The tour is curated by in-the-know locals, so you’re in good hands to pop into local vineyards and breweries (be safe on those wheels, friend), produce shops and more while taking in the stunning (Darryl Kerrigan voice) serenity. So much of it. Treat yo’ self to a bottle of the region’s finest before heading back to drink it in a bubble-filled tub. Dreamy. 

Where to stay: Maxz Loft

The Best Solo Travel In Queensland

Soar into lady elliot island.

This one’s for those that want to give themselves the luxury solo trip of a lifetime. Go off, queen or king. Spanning just 85km and only accessible by sea plane (did we mention luxury?) Lady Elliot Island sits on Australia’s east coast and is one of the most highly protected areas of the Great Barrier Reef National Park. Home to some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling around, this close-to-untouched corner of paradise is home to endless crystal-clear waters and colourful coral, as well as sea turtles, manta rays, and Nemo-level fish aplenty. Go cleanse your spirit in these waters, you deserve it. 

Where to stay: Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort

The Best Solo Travel In South Australia

Swim with sea lions and dolphins at baird bay.

We do not deserve sea lions or dolphins and their absurdly cute inquisitive nature. This is a fact. But, somehow, getting up close and personal with the majesty of these slippery sea doggos is not only allowed, but also safe and encouraged at this unforgettable experience in South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, where you’re on their turf underneath the waves. Doing this on your own allows plenty of time to get lost in their wide eyes and whiskers. A 40-min drive from the sands of Streaky Bay, where unwinding is simply mandatory, this is nothing short of a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Do it, k?

Where to stay: Sunset Dreaming Eco Retreat

The Best Solo Travel In Western Australia

Take a scenic flight over margaret river.

Margaret River is home to pristine waters and vineyards aplenty, but seeing it from way, way up above is something else. You’ll be saying “holy dooley” more times than anyone needs to hear as you take in the ridiculously good-looking sights of the WA coast from an actual helicopter. Dizzy from the heights, you’re going to need a drink after, so follow your nose and hightail it to one of the region’s vineyards and get yourself a Chardy. The rest is up to you. Being your own best friend is the best. 

Where to stay: Ironstone Studio

Get To Know Perth On Foot

Finding your bearings in a new city can be scary, stressful, exciting, another adjective. But putting on your (big boy/girl) shoes and hitting the pavement is one of the best ways to get to know a new place. Enter the walking tour , where new sights can be experienced and new friends can be made if that’s your artisanal jam. Operators offer plenty of cute group tours for solo-travelling souls to join (pro tip: food-centric options are a great way to get a locals’ look into a city), or private options for those that care not for the company of others. Do you, you walking wonder. 

Where to stay : Le Cherche-Midi Fremantle Bed And Breakfast

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Forts Walk, Magnetic Island, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Australia’s best solo travel destinations

Nothing evokes the feeling of pure freedom more than travelling alone. From lively city scenes to prehistoric outback landscapes, Australia offers unique destinations perfectly suited to the solo traveller.

By Amy Fraser

Creature Yoga, Byron Bay, New South Wales © Creature Yoga/Drishti Studio Photography

Great for: Wellness activities and laid-back bars

Australia’s east coast is a mecca for backpacking adventures, and Byron Bay is undoubtedly a long-time favourite along this lauded route. What once was a sleepy coastal town transformed into a hippie heaven of surfing and wellness in the 60s. The latter has become the fabric of Byron Bay, but these days, you can expect a patchwork of trendy restaurants, bars and relaxed hostels peppered around town too. Spend your days experiencing Byron Bay’s laid-back vibe: chasing waves, stretching out your worries in a yoga class or watching the world wake up from Australia’s most easterly point. Come evening, say cheers with new friends at The Surf House’s rooftop bar.

Magnetic Island

Alma Bay, Magnetic Island, Townsville, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

Great for: Spotting koalas and budget-friendly island escapes

You don’t need to travel far to experience the splendours of a tropical island. Magnetic Island , or ‘Maggie’ as affectionately called by locals and travellers alike, is coated in lush bushland that meets white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Take the easy 20-minute ferry ride from Townsville and check into Nomads – one of Australia’s most breathtaking hostels – where a line of teepee-style wooden rooms and swaying palm trees overlook the ocean. Maggie’s list of adventures is endless. Hire an open-roof car to explore some of the 23 dazzling beaches that envelop the island, immerse yourself in the world’s largest koala population along the Forts Walk to see our furry friends among the trees, and follow a colourful snorkel trail to gaze over vibrant corals and a 1900s shipwreck.

Good Heavens roof top bar, Melbourne, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Great for: A trendy food and drink scene

Melbourne has been dubbed one of the most liveable cities in the world – and it’s a must-visit too. This eclectic city serves up silky coffees (often claimed as Australia’s best), eccentric exhibitions and show-stopper plates of food. Capture the bustling atmosphere and artistic details of its cobbled laneways , mingle with the locals at a live sports event and watch the sunset over the city skyline from a rooftop bar . Whether you want to blend into the city or make new-found friends, Melbourne’s menu of solo-friendly activities is a recipe for a great time.

Skypark Cairns by AJ Hackett, Cairns, Queensland © Skypark Cairns by AJ Hackett

Great for: Exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest

Unmissable experience

Join Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel  to meet Indigenous sea rangers and learn about their cultural practices and creation stories connected to the Great Barrier Reef.

Tropical adventures abound in the friendly town of Cairns , where two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites meet. Positioned between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest , and with plenty of uncrowded palm-fringed beaches in between, the natural wonders of North Tropical Queensland are at your fingertips here. Join a cruise to snorkel around the colourful outer reefs, or face your fears with a bungy jump. The ancient culture of the Daintree Rainforest is just a one-hour drive away, easily accessed solo or on a group tour.

Fraser Dingo 4WD Hire, K'gari, Queensland © Fraser Dingo 4WD Hire

Great for: 4WD adventures and gorgeous lagoons

Coated in sand dunes, rainforests and natural blue lakes, K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) exudes the free spirit nature of solo travel. Despite the small slither of ocean that separates it from the mainland, you’ll feel a world away from life’s realities on this remarkable landscape, crowned the world’s largest sand island. The best way to experience K’gari as a solo traveller is on a group tag-along tour . Following your guide, take the wheel of a 4WD to cruise along the mighty 75 Mile Beach, drive through the towering forest and swim in crystal-clear lagoons. At night, relax in private beach house accommodation.

Mount Wellington, Hobart, Tasmania © Daniel Tran

Great for: Local produce and culture

Known as one of the friendliest cities in Australia, a solo trip to Hobart is always a good idea. The charismatic city centre is small enough to explore solo and big enough to excite. Wander around the traditional Salamanca markets to taste the region’s famed produce, expect the unexpected at MONA (the Museum of Old and New Art) and enjoy a beer at Cascades Brewery, Australia’s oldest operating craft brewery. The city’s surroundings are just as alluring. Hike to the summit of Mount Wellington for sunrise or take a day trip to the nearby Bruny Island , where gourmet delights in the form of cheese, beer and chocolate meet spectacular walks and wildlife.

Ways to make friends while travelling

Fremantle and Rottnest Island

Little Geordie Bay, Rottnest Island, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

Great for: Making (furry) friends

It’s not every day you can wake up in a World Heritage-listed 1800s building and later on, come face-to-face with a tiny smiling marsupial on an island described as paradise. The port city of Fremantle has long been a popular destination for solo travellers. Stay at the unique YHA Fremantle Prison hostel to make life-long friends (and memories) and embrace the city’s extensive culture at fascinating museums, bustling food markets and breweries famed for their pioneering craft beers. From Fremantle, take the easy 30-minute ferry ride to Rottnest Island , an island primed for solo exploration. Explore its gorgeous bays and beaches on two wheels and be sure to capture your day with an adorable quokka selfie .

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain Canyons, Cradle Mountain, Tasmania © Off the Path

Great for: Natural beauty and wildlife

Slow travel is synonymous with Cradle Mountain St Clair National Park , where Tasmania’s raw wilderness evokes a deep connection to nature and wildlife in the heart of the ancient World Heritage-listed Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Join a night tour at the conversation centre, Devils@Cradle, to meet the typically shy Tasmanian Devil , or venture into the wild after dark to spot native Tassie animals on a guided tour. If you’ve got an appetite for thrills, try abseiling down dramatic waterfalls on a canyoning adventure. And for those who seek the true solidarity of nature, join a day tour from Launceston to hit Cradle Mountain’s breathtaking collection of hikes, spanning dramatic summits, alpine terrain and ancient rainforests.

Ulu r u, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Jackson Groves

Great for: Connecting to the world’s oldest living culture

Nothing says adventure like visiting the mighty r u">Ulu r u , the world’s largest sandstone monolith towering 348m (1,142ft) high from the red earth of Australia’s arid outback. Over 500 million years old, Ulu r u’s spirit is just as present in the Indigenous A n angu people and their Dreamtime stories as it is in the red-hued rock itself. Immerse yourself in the region on a multi-day tour (goodbye, transportation worries) which blends the highlights of Ulu r u and its neighbouring monolith, Kata Tju t a. Expect days packed with guided cultural hikes through otherworldly landscapes, Indigenous bush tucker-inspired dinners and a spell-binding celestial sky.

Untamed Escapes, Flinders Ranges, South Australia © Untamed Escapes

Great for: South Australia’s bucket list experiences

Adelaide’s easily-accessible city centre and beaches make it a popular locale for solo travellers. There’s plenty to do in and around the city – think wine tasting at world-class vineyards, beach hopping along an endless coastline and museum hopping around celebrated art galleries. But its appeal also lies in its proximity to South Australia’s untamed ancient outback and seafood-famed coastal regions. Hit the open road with a group of like-minded travellers on a guided trip to access off-grid outback hikes, cultural insights and an epic itinerary crafted with some of the state’s most exhilarating experiences. On a six-day Swag Camping Eco Tour , a smorgasbord of bucket list activities awaits, from traversing the dramatic gorges of the 540-million-year-old Flinders Ranges by foot to swimming with playful sea lions, spotting koalas in the wild and shucking fresh oysters on the Eyre Peninsula .

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The Best Places to Travel Alone in Australia

Michela Australia Destinations Australia Solo Travel 2

Australia is a great destination to travel solo and for road trips too. There are so many unique places that match any solo travel style.

As a solo traveller , you may feel overwhelmed because of the vast distances that you need to consider before choosing destinations to travel alone. I would pick places you feel comfortable with, regarding what you can there and transportation options.

If you don’t plan to drive alone in Australia , make sure that your itinerary is covered by an excellent public transportation network, like modern trains and buses and flight connections too.

Places to start your Trip in Australia Alone.

As a first time traveller to Australia, you are better off starting your journey from the main Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne and Perth and Adelaide. These are the safest places to visit in Australia on your own. As a woman, I highly recommend it to all first-time solo female travellers if you don’t feel like going on a self-driving itinerary.

While activities and attractions are abundant in all Australian cities, you can also use small towns as the central hub for further explorations of the surroundings.

Cities like Melbourne and Sydney are the top solo destinations in Australia to start your trip with many exciting things to do without having to drive long distances. It’s easy to see Sydney alone and explore its surroundings by public transport.

From Melbourne, you can go by bus and visit small towns like Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong and if you feel confident about driving solo, go on an easy day trips from Melbourne.

If you can consider self-driving, then you have it all. Australia is a beautiful country for road trips . From rural areas to scenic coastal drives to remote Outback regions, you name it.

Here is a list of the best places I have discovered by going on road trips over 15 years of solo travel adventures in Australia.

Best Places to Travel Alone in Australia

Here is a list of top places for travelling alone in Australia . They are absolutely a no-brainer, and everyone can embrace these adventures, even if you travel by yourself for the first time. I have gone to these places by myself several times with rental cars and public transportation.

Driving in Australia does not require exceptional skills as long as you drive on sealed tracks. However, in remote Outback areas, you need a certain level of experience as a four-wheel drive is strictly necessary on unsealed roads. Moreover, weather conditions can make it difficult and dangerous. Therefore before venturing out alone on a road trip across the Australian Outback, consider whether this is something you feel comfortable with and meet your driving experience level.

The Great Ocean Road Trip

After discovering Melbourne alone , a beautiful 300 km coastal drive awaits you. It may be demanding as there are many turns and bends, but the scenery makes up for the effort. There are many places to visit and activities to do along your way, offering time for resting too. Plan at least 2-3 days to make the most of this fascinating coastal drive.

I recommend hiring a car in Melbourne and taking an inland detour to the Grampians National Park on your way back.

Here you can read more about the best places to travel alone on the Great Ocean Road Trip .

From Alice Springs to Ayers Rock

There are many myths about Uluru and the Red Centre . You will be amazed at how easy this road trip is to travel alone. Just keep driving straight ahead of you for hundreds of kilometres. You don’t need to hire a four-wheel-drive car, as the route is entirely on sealed roads.

The 440km from Alice Springs to Yulara Resort and 330 km from Alice Springs to Kings Canyon are reasonable distances that everyone can easily travel alone.

A first stop could be the Rim Walk in Kings Canyon , one night at the Kings Canyon Resort and then drive further to Ayers Rock for two more nights. In this post, you can read about my tips for driving to Uluru .

My tip : plan four days for the Solo Road Trip To Uluru.

A Solo Trip from Perth to Margaret River

After visiting Perth Alone , 300km south of the city, lies one of Australia’s most surprising regions for Food and Wine. It’s a pleasant and comfortable highway drive to get there. You will need a car to explore the area between Margaret River, Busselton and the Geographe Bay region.

My tip: Add an extra 200-300 km and travel to Walpole, Denmark and further south to Albany to visit the wild coastal landscapes and see the famous Tall Trees.

All roads are sealed and in the right conditions — plan at least 4-5 days for Margaret River, explore the Geographe Bay Region and spend 4-5 days travelling South Western Australia.

Travelling Alone Down South Western Australia

If you can plan more than a week, I would drive down south and visit more beautiful South West Australia. I went on a 10-day solo road trip down south the West Coast and explored one of the most ancient with the world’s highest biodiversity.

It’s one of my favourites places for solo adventures in Australia. In this post, you can read about how to discover South Western Australia on your own.

Exploring the Central East Coast of Australia from Sydney to Cairns

The East Coast Australia ranks high on all solo travellers in Australia among the most popular destinations for a solo backpacking trip. Queensland hosts hundreds of backpackers in summer on their Australian Working Holiday, and it’s an ideal destination for everyone wanting to spend some time alone yet not feeling completely lonely.

While hiring a car in Australia is probably a more relaxed way to travel up from Sydney to Cairns , you can also use public buses and make your way up with Greyhound.

You will be able to stop along your way as much as you like and spend time at the lovely beaches in Byron Bay , soaking in the great weather at the famous and busy Gold Coast and enjoying the Sunshine Coast.

Further north from Airlie Beach , you can explore the Whitsundays Islands , drive to Rockhampton and along the Capricorn Coast ,

If driving alone is not your thing, there are more options to travel around on the East Coast of Australia. There are many local train and bus networks, like Greyhound, which offers excellent bus passes. Plan at least 3-4 weeks from Sydney to Cairns to make the most of your time alone on the East Coast.

Discover Australia Gold Coast Hinterland

Another top place to travel alone is the East Coast of Australia along the Gold Coast. I first went to Coolangatta in 2013 ago and visited Coolangatta coming from South Wales. Later on, I spent six weeks in Mermaid Beach while house-sitting in Australia.

This is an excellent way of visiting alone Australia on a budget and saving money on accommodation which can be pretty expensive for a single traveller.

I think the Gold Coast is an excellent place to be in Australia for solos too. Despite being a bit touristy, it does offer everything to any traveller, with a variety of fun outdoor activities, festivals and amenities that is hard to beat.

You can also escape the crowds and drive inland to the beautiful Gold Coast hinterland for more outdoor explorations and great walks in nature.

Driving Alone from Cairns to Cape Tribulation

Two more great road trips for solo travellers are in North Tropical Queensland. The first trip is from Cairns to Cape Tribulation , where you can visit Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge.

You can do it either as a day trip or by staying overnight at Cape Tribulation in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest.

The tropical region offers spectacular rainforest scenery with solo walks and cruises, abundant fruits, coffee plantations, hills and mountains, gorges and waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands. Another great trip to go alone is the ride from Cairns across the Atherton Tablelands .

Hiking Solo in Tasmania

If you love hiking and are thinking of exploring alone more of Australia, I’d recommend Tasmania as one of the best destinations for hiking solo in Australia. I have gone on several walks alone and loved it. I also went on a solo road trip to the East Coast and explored the Freycinet National Parks.

My last adventure in Tasmania was hiking the Three Capes Track Walk on my own.

The right places to visit Australia Alone

The destinations I have listed on this page are suitable for all kinds of solo travellers, from beginners to more experienced, with different skills and if you travel alone with your pet around Australia .

I have also travelled to remote regions of Australia’s Outback alone that I haven’t listed here. I’m sure, among this list, you will find the right places to travel independently, that will make you want to explore more of Australia.

Now over to you: What are your best places for travelling alone in Australia? If you have a road trip that you can recommend for the solo traveller, please share it with us. Thanks!

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How to organise your Time Travelling Alone in Australia

The best way to organise your time travelling alone around Australia is by driving. You may prefer self-driving to guided day trips, depending on your driving skills. Solo road trips are good fun, and there are many accessible routes for solo travellers too.

You can also combine self-driving with guided tours and public transport. Here are all the tools I use for planning my solo adventures in Australia.

If you find this article helpful for your trip, I’d appreciate it if you could support Rocky Travel and book your tours, accommodation, rental car, or purchase my book using the links in the box below. Thank you!

Last updated in March 2021

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BlairH February 12, 2014 @ 7:59 am

It sounds like a great trip Michela. Our family doesn’t really travel much, i think this year ill plan a sneaky getaway for myself. I think a outback safari might just be the thing for me. Thanks for the inspiration 🙂

rockytravel February 27, 2014 @ 9:27 am

I am glad you liked the post, Blair!

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A Comprehensive Guide To Solo Female Travel In Australia

Having spent 12 months road tripping across Australia I can attest to the fact that the varied landscapes of this vast continent are a heaven for those in search of an adventurous escape.

From the passenger window of our vintage Winnebago I watched as miles of arid desert, lush tropical rainforests, and mountainous terrain flew past. And over the course of our yearlong adventure, we drove over 25,000km making it the most EPIC of all our road tripping adventures to date.

While we travelled as a couple, I often questioned how I would have tackled 12 months in Australia on my own. As a solo female traveller there are a few extra considerations to factor into your itinerary planning, not only those that will offer additional security, but aspects of budgeting and logistics that are easier to manage when travelling as part of a couple or group.

I’d say that I’ve a good knowledge of travel in Australia, but today I’m turning to a woman who has spent 10 years travelling solo across the continent. Read on as I chat to Michela Fantinel, author of Your Australia Itinerary , the ultimate guide for female solo travellers.

THE BASICS OF CREATING YOUR OWN AUSTRALIA ITINERARY

Q: What should travellers be aware of when planning their Australian travel itinerary?

The hardest part about creating a good itinerary for travel in Australia is balancing your time frame with the places you want to see and the distances you have to travel.

When crafting your itinerary, factor in the time it takes to travel from one location to the next and choose self-driving routes that match your level of experience. Be realistic, and make sure the distances work with your schedule.

HOW TO GET STARTED PLANNING YOUR AUSTRALIAN ITINERARY

Q: What’s the first thing you should do when planning a trip to Australia?

Set a time frame: And stick to it. Make a list of must-dos and must-sees. Then make sure they’re a good match with the time of year you’re planning to visit. Draw a rough plan: Once you do this, calculate the distances to see if it’s viable.

Choose the most cost-effective transportation modes that allow you to maximize your time. Fix a budget: You’ll need this to stay on track . Make 80% of arrangements: But leave 10-20% to be decided upon spontaneously.

Give shape to your itinerary. In my book I’ve collated 4 itineraries + 36 customisation options , with the resource pages that offer insight into the best times of year to visit each state, highlight the best activities and locations for your style of travel, and how to make the most of your time in some of the country’s most notable places.

WHAT SHOULD SOLO FEMALE TRAVELLERS IN AUSTRALIA KEEP IN MIND?

Q: Are there any considerations that solo female travellers should be particularly aware of?

I have been travelling Australia alone for 1 5 years there aren’t really crucial aspects for female solo travellers, Australia is a safe country for solo travellers . I would suggest planning carefully how to get around, because of its huge distances.

If you want to traverse the country from coast to coast you need to to combine different transportation modes to make the most of your money and time. The same for accommodation, you can save money by staying in hostels, or in private homes. House sitting in Australia is also a great way to stay for free in exchange of house and pet sit.

WHY PRE PLANNING YOUR AUSTRALIAN ESCAPE IS VITAL

Q: How important is it to have a clear idea of what you want to see and do whilst visiting Australia?

Unless you have an unlimited budget you can’t afford to make changes to your plan last minute , because this would mean increasing the cost by 100-200%.

In Australia, distances are huge; it takes a long time to move from A to B. Cheap flights and internal transportation must be booked in advance to save 30-50% on normal rates. Consider renting a car or campervan and sleeping out in some of Australia’s most inspiring wilderness campsites for a quintessential Aussie experience.

Don’t waste time doing extra research when in Australia . You’re there to discover places and experience a new country, not to plan and revise your itinerary. To get the best deals the vast majority of your planning should be completed before leaving for Australia.

WHAT MAKES A SUCCESSFUL AUSTRALIAN ESCAPE

Q: What are the main factors to consider when choosing experiences for your Australian itinerary?

The first should be timing – how much time do you need to see a place? You don’t want to miss out on the big ticket experiences, but you also don’t need to stay too long either. In my book I offer detailed information with advice regarding the optimum amount of time to spend in some of the country’s most iconic locations.

Next is transportation . Self-driving vs public transportation or tours – you need to know all options for each route and choose what makes you feel most comfortable with. Self-driving is a more rewarding way to travel around but it’s not for everyone!

Finally select your destinations wisely . The greater the distances you have to travel between attractions, the more money you’ll spend on transport, and the less time you’ll have to experience the country.

Visit Michela’s informative Australian travel blog RockyTravel.net and and get her  Australia Travel Guide Book  now.

Have you explored Australia solo? Share your experience below!

So much good tips here for solo female travel! It’s a treasure trove! Even though Im already doing solo travel, there’s much more to learn everyday. ?

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10 top spots for solo travelers in winter (or any other time of year)

Dec 10, 2021 • 10 min read

Trekking to Machu Picchu is just one of many South American adventures that's perfect for solo travelers © Getty Images / iStockphoto / Andres Jacobi

The idea of traveling alone can be daunting if you've never taken a solo trip before. Checking in for your outbound flight is easy – it's only when you arrive alone in an unfamiliar destination that it all becomes real. But any initial doubts are fleeting. By the time you've checked into your hotel and hit the streets looking for your first meal, nerves will already be giving way to the thrill of being somewhere new.

A major factor in mastering the art of solo travel is selecting the right destination. Whether you're embarking on an epic multicountry trip or taking an impulsive city break, some places are more suitable for a solo travel experience than others. There are destinations that are naturally suited to solitude, and destinations where travelers are naturally thrown together, making it easy to meet new people.

Best of all, there are solo travel destinations in every corner of the globe, so you can take a solo trip in the depths of winter as easily as you can at the height of summer. Here are 10 sure-fire destinations for lone travelers, organized by interest. Whether you’re into raves, relaxation, hiking or sightseeing, these spots are certain to get your solo travel adventure off on the right foot.

South America: best for solo adventures

With mountains to climb, rivers to raft, ancient ruins to uncover and jungles to explore, South America is the ultimate adventure destination. And the northern hemisphere's winter is South America's summer – the prime time to visit Patagonia and the Andes. From well-trodden paths in Argentina , Chile and Brazil to virgin jungle trails in Ecuador and Colombia , the continent has something for every kind of adventurer. You'll certainly never struggle for company on the trek to Machu Picchu !

Don’t let the continent's size daunt you – with easy border crossings and well-established traveler hubs, South America is ideal for solo overlanding. The well-worn Gringo Trail, which takes in the continent’s most popular destinations, ensures recurring rendezvous with fellow adventurers and ample opportunities to buddy up with travelers heading in the same direction. This, paired with the general warmth of local people and the continent’s premium hostel network, makes solo travel simple.

Epic solo travel experience : Mountain biking down Bolivia ’s infamous Death Road (the name is an exaggeration, in case you were worried) and debriefing with your fellow riders over a few beers afterward.

Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

Whether you loved or loathed Elizabeth Gilbert’s seminal solo travel memoir Eat, Pray, Love , there’s no denying that Bali has a special magic. The island's artistic and spiritual center, Ubud , is where the author found love (and presumably ate and prayed) and it remains a wonderfully laid-back place for solo travelers to relax, reflect and recharge. And Bali is a year-round destination – summer is peak season, but the island has a quieter and calmer charm in winter.

Nestled among emerald rice fields ringed by mist-wrapped mountains, Ubud attracts throngs of solo travelers, meaning no probing glances if you arrive alone at a morning yoga class or ask for a table for one in one of the town’s salubrious vegetarian cafes. To really harness the healing power of Ubud (and for some serious solitude), check yourself into one of the many health retreats that dot the verdant hills around town.

Epic solo travel experience : Getting up super early before the heat climbs to join a holistic class – you find lessons in everything from yoga and meditation, and you can follow up with a massage at a tried and tested spa such as Taksu Spa .

Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

Some say you are more likely to get into Berghain , the most famous nightclub in Berlin , if you arrive alone. Whether or not that’s the case, the rumor demonstrates the German capital’s natural affinity for solo travelers. Legions of solo citybreakers are drawn by Berlin's deserved reputation as one of the friendliest, most inclusive cities in Europe, and by its famous nightlife.

Berlin is one of the best places in Europe to party, offering a collection of colossal clubs and graffiti-spattered beer gardens, but going clubbing is just one of many things to do in Berlin. Thought-provoking history surrounds you from the moment you arrive, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Holocaust Memorial , while quirky cafes, cool boutiques, weekend flea markets and a growing food-truck scene provide more leisurely delights. Berlin is an easy place to wander alone, or join a walking tour for some company.

Epic solo travel experience : Heading out to a bar or nightclub and seeing where the night takes you. For some guided imbibing, join a beer tour with Brewer's Berlin Tours or Berlin Craft Beer Experience .

East Africa: best for a group tour

Have you always dreamed of viewing gorillas in the jungles of Rwanda , meeting a Maasai chief in Kenya  or spotting the “Big Five” in Tanzania , but were daunted by the logistics of tackling East Africa independently? A group tour can simplify the experience of visiting this stunning region of the world, and provide a buffer for the sometimes challenging experiences Africa can throw at first-timers.

East Africa’s tourism infrastructure is well developed and traveling solo in most countries here is quite achievable (particularly in Kenya and Tanzania), but joining a group tour means you can bundle together a string of big game-viewing safaris in multiple countries, without getting hit by additional lone traveler charges or facing the daunting prospect of arranging multiple tours and transport.

Best of all, tours in these bucket-list destinations attract a diverse group of travelers, meaning you’re much less likely to be the only solo traveler sandwiched between canoodling couples, or the only 20-something in a coach full of empty-nesters.

Epic solo travel experience : Catching the great migration from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya – an almost Lion King -esque parade of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles and predators.

Singapore: best for a solo stopover

With all manner of cultural attractions to explore, a growing collection of hostels and guesthouses, loads of free things to do , and one of the world’s best public transport systems (including excellent airport links), there are few more stress-free solo travel experiences than landing at Singapore 's award-winning Changi airport on a tropical afternoon.

Whether you choose to amble with an audio guide through the Chinatown Heritage Centre , gawp at the otherworldly Gardens by the Bay , plunge into a lavish rooftop pool, or join the hordes feasting in Singapore's hawker food courts , the city is perfectly suited to solo travel. An added bonus is the city's cosmopolitan attitude – locals don't bat an eyelid at the daily influx of international arrivals, and there are few hassles and scams to worry about.

Epic solo travel experience : Checking out the cozy cafes and quirky boutiques in the gentrified 1930s housing estate of Tiong Bahru .

Rome, Italy: best for culture

From ancient icons such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the towering masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that is St Peter’s Basilica , Rome ’s cityscape is a kaleidoscopic canvas of artistic flair, architectural wonderment and historical marvels. Whether you’re visiting for two days or two months, there's so much to see that there's little risk of becoming bored.

Though English is not as widely spoken as in some European nations, it’s hard to feel lonely among the 14 million other tourists who visit this cultural hub each year. And solo dining means you only have to worry about keeping one palate happy in Rome's fabulous restaurants . But don’t pack too much into your itinerary, as Rome rewards relaxation; mingling with strangers over a glass of vino at sunset is an essential pastime in The Eternal City.

Epic solo travel experience : Visiting St Peter’s Basilica and walking the 7km (4.3 miles) of artwork-filled halls that comprise the Vatican Museums .

Portland, Oregon: best city break

One of the USA 's hippest hubs, Portland has all the cultural advantages of a major metropolis, but the down-home intimacy of a small town. This affable attitude reverberates in the town’s urban wineries, microbreweries and coffee shops, where conversation flows quicker than the drinks can be poured. And with its patchwork of small, friendly neighborhoods , it's easy to discover this easy-going city one district at a time.

There’s more to this bastion of counterculture than its love of a good chinwag, with a host of whimsical attractions highlighting its quirky streak, from a museum dedicated to vacuum cleaners to an urban herd of goats. It’s also a cinch to navigate, with good public transport and a popular bike-share scheme. And while Portland is famous for its artisan restaurants, a more sociable – and undeniably more fun – way to dine is at the city’s 500-or-so street food carts.

Epic solo travel experience : Exploring the Alberta Arts District; for the company of fellow art enthusiasts, time your visit to coincide with the Last Thursday art walk .

Chiang Mai, Thailand: best for food

It's a close-run thing, but for solo foodie travel, one destination stands above all others for travelers who view the world through the prism of a knife and fork. The capital of northern Thailand – and once the center of an independent kingdom – Chiang Mai offers the entire Thai package in one compact location: stellar food, rich culture, ancient ruins, responsible elephant encounters , relaxed nightlife and an easy-going traveler scene that's easy to plug into.

Every time of day is snack time in Chiang Mai. From the city's impressive northern Thai restaurants to its fun-filled and frenetic night markets and hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving the city's famous kow soi soup, the city always has a fork or spoon in hand. What makes Chiang Mai especially suited to solo travelers is its collection of cooking schools – ideal places to meet new people and learn how to cook up a perfect bowl of phat thai , green curry or hot and sour tom yam soup.

Epic solo travel experience : Learning to cook Thai food, of course! Most courses start with a market trip so you can learn to identify local ingredients before you start pounding herbs and spices to make your own curry paste ( Small House Chiang Mai is one recommended school).

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

Enchanting atolls aren’t reserved for honeymooners. Pastel-hued, car-free Caye Caulker has always been a great place for solo travelers thanks to its compact size and easy-going, backpacker-friendly vibe, which draws a relaxed, international crowd in search of a less commercialized slice of paradise.

It’s easy to lose days lounging at The Split , the island’s premier beach, but there are plenty of other activities on offer, from snorkeling and diving on teeming reefs to kayaking to lesser-visited parts of the island while keeping a beady eye out for crocodiles. 

Join other travelers at local reggae bars during the afternoon happy hour before sampling Creole-style street food come nightfall. What's arguably the greatest blessing of solo travel? You don’t have to share your shrimp and swordfish dinner!

Epic solo travel experience : Snorkeling or diving in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve , which teems with turtles and small sharks.

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

It would actually be hard to explore the East Coast of Australia alone. So many travelers follow the snaking stretch of road that runs from Sydney to Cairns that solitude is often harder to find than companionship. For travelers in search of natural wonders, excellent infrastructure, abundant tours and group activities and raucous late-night revelry, there are few places to match it.

But it’s not just the good-time vibe that makes this stretch of coastline so spectacular. The classic road trip route is studded with bucket-list attractions, from lolling on Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach to rambling through the ancient Daintree Rainforest or blowing bubbles on the Great Barrier Reef . Consider renting a car to explore – the most memorable moments will likely come from interactions with locals in coastal surf towns and one-pub villages in the Outback an hour or two inland from the coast.

Epic solo travel experience : Joining a tour with the East Coast's Indigenous people. Tours led by guides from Aboriginal communities will show you a less-seen side to this well-explored land.

You might also like: Female solo travel: what it's like to travel solo at every age How Black LGBTIQ+ travellers navigate a challenging world What it's like traveling with kids as a single parent

This article was first published Nov 30, 2017 and updated Dec 10, 2021.

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