Australia Tours: What to know before you go

A mix of iconic sites, stunning natural scenery, and laid-back culture make the Land Down Under a must-visit destination for many globetrotters. Our Australia tours give travelers a way to experience every side of this vast country. Here, find our top tips to help you get ready for a trip to Australia.

Pack for all kinds of weather

Australia is a large country, and climates vary across its different regions, from tropical in the north to temperate in the south. Due to its location south of the equator, Australia’s seasons are the opposite of what we experience here in North America. Traveler Phaedra went on tour during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter (our summer). “We had every kind of weather, so the thing I’d recommend for a trip during this specific time of year is to just be prepared for every eventuality,” she advised. “Don’t pack a lot, but bring clothing for every type of weather and layer. Definitely bring a rain jacket.”

The Outback—an essential stop during any trip to Australia—presents its own challenges. This central region is classified as a desert, which means temperatures can be extreme. Keep sun protection in mind, and read up on the rest of our packing tips for the Australian Outback.

Prep for the long flight

Let’s face it. While the payoff is completely worth it, North American travelers will log some serious plane time on a trip to Australia. In addition to dressing comfortably and bringing along some good reading material, staying hydrated is one of the most important things to do when in the air.

The best thing to help count down the hours of your plane ride? Remembering that an incredible experience is in store once you’ve made it around the globe! On your flight home, use your time in the air to document your trip—organize your photos or write in your travel journal while your journey is still fresh in your mind.

Be open to new experiences

Travel gives us the opportunity to step outside of our comfort zones. Even if you wouldn’t ordinarily take to the sea aboard a boat, give it a try on tour. (You wouldn’t want to miss out on seeing the Great Barrier Reef up close, would you?) A hot-air balloon ride high above the Outback isn’t an activity you’d do on typical day, but as our photographer on tour experienced, it rewards you with absolutely breathtaking views of the scenery stretching out below. Since we take care of arranging all the details of your trip, you can make the most of each and every new experience. After all, moments of discovery like these sometimes happen when we least expect them.

Bring the right adapter

Australia uses plug Type I, which has three large, flat pins set on an angle. Unless you’ve traveled to China, New Zealand, or Argentina in the past, you’ll have to purchase this adapter plug and bring it with you on tour to charge any of your electronic devices, like phones, cameras, or e-readers.

Get the right currency

Another more practical matter to keep in mind: While you’re on tour, you’ll use the Australian dollar. ATMs are available throughout the country, but if you’d prefer to land with some cash on hand, you can order foreign currency from your bank ahead of time. It’s a good idea to let your bank and credit card company know that you’ll be traveling internationally too.

Say g’day

Over the course of your time Down Under, you’ll likely notice some words and phrases that you don’t recognize. Though they speak English, Aussies have developed their own slang. A few you might hear in conversation? Arvo, which means afternoon, barbie, the shortened form of barbecue, and hooroo, or goodbye.