Free Parking in Airlie Beach: Your Complete Guide

From camel rides, to jumping crocs, spectacular birdlife and bouncing kangaroos plus a vast array of rich marine life, the Northern Territory is an animal lover's dream!

I have visited quite a few islands during my travels recently. There's Phillip Island down in Victoria south of Melbourne, Rottnest Island in Western Australia outside of Perth, Magnetic Island in Queensland from Townsville, the Whitsunday Islands surrounding Airlie Beach… Each island has been amazing with its unique flair. There are remarkably over 8,200 Australian islands […]

Take your appetite for adventure to new heights with Skydive Australia’s jump zone’s in Queensland Ready to experience the ultimate adrenaline rush? If you're seeking an adventure that will leave your heart racing and your spirits soaring, then skydiving in Queensland with Skydive Australia is the way to go. From the spectacular views to the […]

Graduating soon means looking back at all these crazy times, and if there’s one thing I learned from my year here, it’s that planning (and not planning) trips in Australia doesn’t leave you any less vulnerable to the sometimes scary, sometimes funny, but ultimately remarkable surprises you’ll get here.

Discover a captivating destination that promises an extraordinary travel experience.

Got a spare 48 hours in Airlie Beach? Here's how to spend it! So your Airlie Beach flights and accom are booked…now what? It’s time to schedule some fun in the North Queensland sun and what better way to do it than with this Airlie Beach itinerary curated just for you! Perfectly located in the […]

1. Beaches will no longer impress you via GIPHY Australia is brimming with beautiful beaches including Bondi, Whitehaven and drum roll please... world recordbreaker for the 'whitest sand' Hyams Beach. No other beach will EVER compare. 2. You'll become a fan of big rocks via GIPHY One thing that Australia does well is big rocks. […]

Follow influencer Jimmy Jan’s jam-packed 4 day Cairns itinerary for the ULTIMATE accessible adventure. Filled with some of the best things to see and do in Cairns and its surrounds, prepare to skydive over the reef, explore lush rainforests and more. This itinerary has it all! So dive in and make your Cairns adventure a […]

How much do you know about Melbourne? Did you know that it is consistently voted as the worlds most livable city? Or perhaps that it is the only city to have FIVE international standard sporting venues? (Hisense Arena, Docklands Stadium, Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Cricket Ground, and Olympic Park in Melbourne Park. There's also Albert Park Racecourse, which hosts the […]

I guess it’s easy to say that Melbourne has it all. It isn’t the capital of Australia, but it certainly has all the qualities and attributes to qualify as a capital city. It boasts a busy and buzzing Central Business District, full of shops, restaurants, cafes, offices, you name it. The surrounding areas are home […]

From jaw-dropping car displays to adrenaline-fueled motorsport action, Red Centre Nats is a celebration of all things automotive.

I was yearning to discover the Australian Outback that surrounds the Northern Territory. Therefore, in June, I embarked on the 3-day “Cicada Dreaming” Tour with the most experienced company “Wayoutback Australian Safaris” starting from Alice Springs and ending in Darwin. This trip takes you right through the incredible Top End. If you are interested in […]

We've narrowed down our top cultural experiences in the NT - so you can experience the magic for yourself!

Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean missing out on the best experiences that the tropical north, particularly Cairns, has to offer. With an array of free adventures and experiences waiting to be explored, it can be one of the best trips you’ve had—without stretching your budget. We’ve compiled our top free activities and adventures so […]

K’gari, also known as Fraser Island, is a unique Australia bucket-list destination where nature, culture, and adventure converge. Nestled off the coast of Queensland, K’gari is a tapestry of rainbow-coloured cliffs, crystal-clear lakes, and sprawling beaches that whisper tales of the past. Here are the top 10 things to do on K’gari, a place aptly […]

October in Cairns is all about warm weather and beautiful clear skies. With temperatures ranging from 21°c to 30°c, October is the beginning of the transition from the dry to the wet season, so it’s mostly sunny days with minimal rainfall – perfect for enjoying the stunning coastline and vibrant marine life with beach visits […]

"Don't let comfort or fear define your path; carve your own and you'll reap the rewards that travel is willing to offer you. If you've been holding off, 2022 is the year (to travel)"

¿Estás pensando en embarcarte al Red Centre (Centro Rojo), pero te preguntas por dónde empezar? No te culpamos, el Red Centre es un área muy grande, y puede ser difícil saber dónde y cómo comenzar. Desde Uluru hasta Alice Springs y más allá hasta Tennant Creek, el Red Centre de Australia está lleno de historia, […]

One of the best ways to explore a new culture is to try their local cuisine. This is one of the things that distinguishes tourists from travellers and highlights a willingness to really connect with the community. Not to mention that it's enjoyable to try new things - Especially when sourced from their country of […]

Tasmania is a rugged, remote gem that is beloved by Australians and visitors alike. The island is located to the south of Victoria, making it a great getaway destination from Melbourne. But wherever you are based or planning to visit, we highly advise you tack a Tassie trip onto your journey. From forests to mountains […]

The Great Barrier Reef is one of those highlights of Australia that I can’t imagine you would even fathom leaving this country without seeing for yourself. You learn about this magnificent reef in school, you see it featured in popular movies like Finding Nemo, and you dream about the day you get to jump off […]

Heading down under? Australia's got it all—from the sun-kissed beaches of the Gold Coast to the rugged outback. But with such a diverse landscape comes the big question: "What do I pack?". Our team has compiled the ultimate packing list, ensuring you’re ready for every adventure, come rain, sunshine, or cool Outback nights. Tips for […]

March in Cairns is a really great season due to being the sweet spot between summer's heat and the shoulder season (the months between peak seasons). With temperatures between 23°c and 31°c, the sunshine is still glorious, but the humidity starts to ease off a bit, so it’s a little more comfortable for exploring. Tourist […]

Booked that overseas ticket for one and wondering where to head first? Take a look at these awesome places that have all the friendly people, delicious food and incredible experiences to make your solo trip one to remember.  1. Spain There are soooo many places from where you can take good pictures of Barcelona that […]

Cairns is well known for its lush rainforests, gorgeous coral reefs, interesting wildlife and friendly locals, but the iconic estuarine crocodile is one of the area’s most famous residents. These beautiful creatures are often referred to as ‘salties’ and can be seen in their natural habitats or viewed safely in wildlife parks and sanctuaries. Here’s […]

Did you know that every job in the Northern Territory can count towards your 1 Year Working Holiday Maker Visa extension? That's right every postcode counts!

The best advice I can give when you book a Great Ocean Road Day trip with Great Sights is to arrive early to get a good seat! The front four seats on the upper deck provide the best views in every direction, failing that any window seat on the left side of the bus. After […]

An unmistakable symbol of Australia, koalas stand as a quintessential must-see Down Under. Uncover prime locations for an intimate encounter with these adorable creatures. From Brisbane's renowned Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to captivating koala tours on Kangaroo Island, join us in exploring the best destinations for an up-close encounter with koalas! 1. Breakfast with a […]

I was eager to discover the Northern Territory with the famous Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, and their numerous waterfalls, lagoons, and varied wildlife. Also learning about aboriginal art and culture along the way. I reserved my trip with the “Wayoutback Australian Safaris”, a renowned specialist in this domain. I knew that this trip was […]

  Born and raised in the Netherlands I basically breathe water. So what do you do when you get the opportunity to join in on a kayak tour? Ow yes count me in please! And what if this tour includes delicious wine, beautiful sunsets and (my all-time favourite) tasty cheese! Then you got me hooked. […]

The thrill of accessible adventure beckons, and Queensland is your playground.

Most Aussies have heard of the stunning sandy wonderland now known by its traditional Butchulla name, K’gari, but where is Fraser Island exactly? This gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is located just off the coast of Queensland, approximately 15 kilometres from Hervey Bay’s coast, which is the area’s largest mainland town. Stretching over 120 kilometres […]

Okay, it’s time to talk about surfing in Australia. On the outside, Australia is portrayed as a country with countless small beach towns where everyone that lives there wakes up and heads to the beach for a nice surf before starting their day. To be honest, this assumption is not far off. This is due […]

The Great Barrier Reef has something for everyone.

Australia, the land down under, is a treasure trove of natural wonders and thrilling adventures, and when it comes to experiencing the best of the best, Queensland stands tall as the second largest and one of the most diverse states. From road trips that unveil the picturesque landscapes to encounters with marine life in the […]

When a place you visit is as stunningly beautiful as the Mornington Peninsula, it becomes hard to find the words to truly convey how it makes you feel. It is simply a part of Australia with awe-inspiring views and beautiful visions of nature. Our first stop on the Produce Tour certainly highlighted this in incredible […]

Cairns is famous for its tropical landscapes, proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, stunning beaches and exciting water activities, but can you surf in Cairns? The short answer is not really. Traditional surfing is not a very popular activity in the region due to the geography, climate and natural features around Cairns making it fairly […]

Mon expérience avec la compagnie « The Rock Tour » dans le Territoire du Nord 3 jours et 2 nuits de Uluru à Alice Springs «Palya » – Bienvenue sur les terres Anangu ! Je tenais absolument à découvrir la cambrousse Australienne appelée « Outback » avant de rentrer en France. Le Centre-Rouge m’a paru être une destination indispensable ! J’ai pu […]

Sydney in December is the most vibrant and festive time to visit, as the city is buzzing with holiday cheer and seasonal activities. The warm summer weather gives you temperatures from 19°c to 26°c, meaning it’s a great time to get out and enjoy the Christmas markets, festive celebrations and spectacular New Year’s Eve events. […]

New Zealand is the ultimate adventure playground for adrenaline junkies. The Land of the Long White Cloud offers many opportunities to zoom down a mountain, ride a raging river, jump out of a plane, soar through the air or just generally get your thrill on. With numerous excellent adventure tour companies offering adrenaline experiences, it’s […]

Your complete guide to a summer in the Sunshine State

Discover a series of Great Barrier Reef islands you might not have heard of.

What is your first thought when someone says ‘romantic destination’? For many travellers, that is usually Paris, Venice, or some dreamy tropical beach in a distant part of the world, and certainly not a country like Australia. While it is famous for its iconic cityscapes, Australia is so much more than the wild nightlife of […]

The Whitsundays, a stunning archipelago of 74 islands off the coast of Queensland, is a dream destination for travellers seeking pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're interested in sailing, snorkelling, or simply relaxing on the soft white sands of Whitehaven Beach, timing your visit to the Whitsundays can make all the difference. […]

“Far over the misty mountains cold To dungeons deep and caverns old We must away ere break of day To seek the pale enchanted gold."

Want to take on the Top End? If you’re after waterfalls, wildlife and some seriously wonderful view (really, they’ll take your breath away), then the Top End is the place to go. From bustling Darwin to the stunning Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks and the famous Katherine Gorge, there’s a ton of great places to […]

Melbourne in May has temperatures ranging from 8°c to 17°c, which makes it an Autumn wonderland. With cool, calm days and fewer tourists around, there’s no better time to explore the city’s historical landmarks and hear the fascinating stories that have made this vibrant area what it is. Step Back in Time Melbourne’s history is […]

Moving to a foreign country can be a stressful experience, but we want to make it as enjoyable as possible for you! Therefore we have put together a list of frequently asked questions to help you before your big move to Australia. We have a lovely international team who have shared personal recommendations on certain […]

Melbourne in April is the heart of autumn and with blissful temperatures ranging from 10°c to 20°c, it’s an excellent time to explore one of Australia’s most iconic road trips – the Great Ocean Road. With cooler weather and clear days, April’s perfect for long drives and outdoor adventures without the heat of summer or […]

Cairns in June has glorious mild conditions and dry weather, with temps ranging from 18°c to 26°c. With its minimal rainfall and low humidity, June is such a good month for hiking and exploring the beautiful National Parks around Cairns, particularly the Atherton Tablelands. Ideal Weather for Hiking If you’re hoping to breathe in the […]

Uluru in December is where all the sun-loving tourists want to be! With temperatures ranging from 20°c to 36°c, December in Uluru gives you warm temperatures and clear skies that truly enhance the natural beauty of this iconic destination – perfect for early-morning or late-afternoon activities outdoors.   A Unique Touring Experience If you want […]

I have just got back from the best 5 days in Tasmania, a state that often gets left out when travelling through Australia by Europeans. I am extremely happy that I finally got to do this amazing tour, and definitely would add it to my Australia recommendations for solo travellers (or with a friend)! I […]

As the middle month of summer, January in Cairns is exactly as you’d expect it to be – very hot and sticky. As part of the wet season, January has temperatures ranging from a delightful 24°c to a scorching 32°c, as well as high humidity and frequent tropical showers, mostly in the evenings after a […]

We've rounded up the ultimate day trips to this island paradise for you to make the most of your summer.

Are you looking for the party, wildlife, or both?

  Asia is hot among backpackers, and there's a reason why! It is the place to be if you are looking for breath-taking nature, stunning beaches, exciting adventures and delicious food without paying a fortune. If you travel wisely, you might end up spending less money than you would have spent just staying back at […]

Bald Hill in Sydney is one of the most visually beautiful places from which to hang glide.  Sweeping views of the ocean and coastline make this an ideal location for your maiden voyage or your one-thousandth. It has been called one of the premier  flying sites in all the world. Located about one hour south […]

With its pristine beaches, breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, Magnetic Island is a haven for young adventurers and the young at heart.

To me, there is no better way to spend a sunny afternoon in South Australia than venturing to admire the beautifully picturesque natural treasures it has to offer, and Phillip Island is no exception. The drive itself from Melbourne CBD to the final location took a few hours, but the scenery along the way made it […]

As we step into 2024, the travel landscape is evolving, offering a plethora of exciting destinations that cater to the diverse interests and desires of travellers. Drawing insights from the latest consumer behaviour trends, our team of travel experts present the crème de la crème of travel destinations for the year ahead.   Sustainable Escapes […]

If you’re visiting Uluru in October, you can expect warmer temperatures ranging from 15°c to 32°c – a pretty comfortable climate for most activities. Between exploring the region’s beautiful natural wonders, this month gives you a great opportunity to look into Aboriginal culture, learn traditional techniques and create your own meaningful artwork inspired by the […]

While Uluru in March is still considered a summer month with temperatures ranging from 19°c to 34°c, the weather is slightly cooler than the middle-summer months, making it a little more comfortable. With crowd numbers still lower than peak tourist times later in the year, March is a great time to avoid the crowds, check […]

New cycling packages help travellers explore Australia's Victoria High Country 250km Rail Trail. Victoria’s High Country has a range of new cycling tour packages to help visitors explore more than 250km of safe, off-road Rail Trail network and quiet country roads, against a backdrop of panoramic landscapes. The High Country offers the ultimate cycling holiday, […]

Think you know New Zealand? Think again! Here are 5 crazy facts about the country that will definitely surprise you! 1. Christchurch used to have a local wizard! There's no denying New Zealand is a magical place, and that's not just because it was the set of Lord of the Rings! In 1982, Christchurch actually […]

Uluru in August has cool and comfortable temperatures ranging from 5°c to 23°c, making it an absolutely ideal time for outdoor activities. This month offers pleasant weather and opportunities to explore the iconic landscape in-depth while enjoying the natural beauty and cultural significance of the area.   Ideal Conditions for Multi-Day Tours The cooler temperatures […]

Het was eindelijk zo ver. Eindelijk was ik onderweg naar het voor mij nog onbekende Tasmanië. Het is toch wel een staat die je vaak laat zitten wanneer je door Australië reist. Maar ik ben enorm blij dat ik eindelijk deze geweldige tour heb mogen doen! Ik heb de Famous 5 tour gedaan en de […]

Sydney in August still has crisp winter days, but the first hints of spring are appearing so it’s a perfect time for exploring. With temperatures ranging from 10°c to 19°c, August in Sydney has some amazing walking tours, food tours and even stargazing on offer. Indulge All Your Senses Sydney’s most famous landmarks are definitely […]

If you are travelling along the East Coast of Australia make sure to visit Port Macquarie, a beautiful township just a four to five hour drive from Sydney, New South Wales. It is a calm place, compared to other backpacker destinations, great to relax for a few days. But don’t worry, there are still a […]

The Gold Coast, known for its sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife, and adrenaline-filled attractions, offers an exciting getaway all year round. Whether you’re looking to catch some waves, explore lush hinterlands, or dive into the local culture, timing your visit can enhance your experience. At Backpacker Deals, we’ve got the lowdown on the best times to […]

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's breathtaking Fiordland National Park, Doubtful Sound is a destination that promises serene beauty and awe-inspiring landscapes. Often overshadowed by the more famous Milford Sound, this hidden gem offers a quieter, more intimate experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike. But when is the best time to visit Doubtful […]

Sydney in June means winter is coming, but the city still has pleasant temperatures from 10°c to 18°c. The cooler weather mixed with warm indoor spaces makes it a wonderful time to explore the historic heart of the city, such as The Rocks. Check out Sydney’s colonial past through its beautiful cobblestone streets, historic buildings […]

New Zealand looks small on the map, but it is actually a large country with lots to explore.  There are lots of different ways to get around the country’s two islands. The best option for you will depend upon a variety of factors including how much time you have, who you are travelling with, what […]

Borders are open (kinda) so where TF can I go???

The first time I ever went to Costa Rica was the first time I ever travelled alone. I was in uni on a very limited student budget, looking to see and do as much as possible for the lowest cost.  So I set myself a challenge: Spend no more than $1,000USD on the whole trip. […]

Our ultimate guide to do K'Gari (Fraser Island) in one day.

If you've been following our Instagram story or Facebook page, you'll know we were up on the sunny Gold Coast last week for the annual Golden Backpack Awards! While most of our time was spent meeting fellow merchants, travellers and tour operators, we still managed to do plenty of exploring... here are some of the […]

Whether you're visiting with your family, exploring during the winter months, or seeking indoor adventures on rainy days, Apollo Bay has something special in store for you.

Sydney in September means it’s the start of spring, with temperatures ranging from a cool 12°c to about 22°c. Sydney’s flowers and trees are beginning to bloom and it’s a great time to explore outdoor attractions like Taronga Zoo. With a spellbinding position along the beautiful shores of Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo is an absolute […]

The most liveable cities of 2018 have been announced! What better excuse than to go on a trip and see what all the hype is about? Of the 140 cities surveyed by The Economist Intelligence Unit, the top ten is full of some pretty great destinations… maybe you’ll head to number one city Vienna, or […]

Australia is a BIG country. There are countless regions to find farm work/ fruit picking to extend your 2nd Year Visa, from the sunny tropics of North Queensland down to the wine regions of South Australia and Western Australia. Here are 5 regions recommended by iBackpacker to check out on your travels: 1. Margaret River, Western Australia […]

Welcome to Brisbane, the ultimate summer city escape that seamlessly blends vibrant city life with the laid-back charm of the great outdoors. Whether you're a culture connoisseur, a dedicated foodie, or a nature enthusiast, Brisbane has something to offer everyone this summer. 1.Poolside Paradise at The Calile Begin your Brisbane summer adventure in style at […]

Cairns in May gives you the perfect weather for some underwater fun! As the last month of the wet season, the weather is drier and more comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 20°c to 28°c. This drop in humidity and rainfall means better underwater visibility on the reef too, giving you the ideal conditions to explore […]

Good Morning Franz Josef 9:15 am and I wake up because my alarm is going off… did I have a good sleep! I’ll need my energy today for sure because we’re going onto the glacier with Franz Josef Glacier Guides to do the “Ice Experience tour.” So excited to go onto the Glacier. We were […]

Melbourne in October is a thrilling time with an eerie atmosphere perfect for Halloween. With temperatures ranging from around 9°c to 20°c, the cool spring air adds a chilling edge to the city's spine-tingling activities. October is an excellent time to visit Melbourne’s darker history with ghost tours, crime tours and for a more direct […]

Enjoy this quick guide to navigating a tropical summer in the top end of the NT and discover what makes this time so waterfall...I mean, wonderful.

Melbourne in March has perfect weather with temps between 13°c and 24°c, which is great if you want to explore the city’s amazing Aboriginal heritage. The warm but not too hot temperatures make it an excellent month for outdoor exploration and immersive cultural experiences. A Walk Through History March in Melbourne is a great time […]

Just imagine it: A sunny day in Melbourne, and you’re venturing on a unique tour to various breweries in the beautiful Yarra Valley to sample many exquisite beers and cider, made with loving care and attention which ensure your tastebuds tingle with each ice cold sip. Perfect? Maybe, just maybe. I had always liked beer; […]

Hungry for adventure? Try a culinary journey through the Northern Territory this Summer.

Cairns in February is all about those long sunny days, balmy nights and the chilled-out tropical atmosphere. With average temperatures hovering around 24°c to 32°c, it can definitely be considered hot and humid most of the time, but the frequent evening showers, crystal-clear waters and cool rainforest retreats make Cairns a haven for people who […]

Is there anything better than a wine tour? Especially when it's through Melbourne's stunning Yarra Valley region and complete with local produce tastings, a gourmet lunch and even a game of bocce! Last Friday the Backpacker Deals team were lucky enough to embark on Autopia's Yarra Valley Wine Tour. We tried strawberry liquors and preserves […]

Spectacular creations of Mother Nature are all over the world, and there really is nothing better than witnessing them with your own eyes. Whether it be a glorious rainforest, beautifully picturesque lakes, or the many species of animal, reptile and insect which inhibit the land and ocean, it is always a special experience to come […]

Travelling alone is nothing to be scared of. Some only consider the negatives that are associated with travelling alone such as being lonely, not having anyone to talk to or boredom but forget all of the positive aspects that go with travelling solo... like giving yourself a bit of ME TIME! Sometimes you need to […]

Australia is one of the best places in the world to witness the majestic whales in their natural habitat. From the sunny coasts of Queensland to the rugged shores of Western Australia, you’ll find countless whale watching experiences throughout the country that are guaranteed to blow you out of the water (not literally; don’t worry!). […]

Sydney in January is the peak of summer, with long, sunny days and temperatures ranging from 20°c to 27°c. The city is full of energy and there’s an endless amount of outdoor activities you can participate in – especially along Sydney’s famous coastlines and waterways. Hang Ten at Bondi Beach January in Sydney is the […]

There’s something fun about pre-trip planning and packing. Whether it’s working out what outfits to where and when, what skincare to take depending on the destination (cooler climates + hydration, warmer climates + sunscreen and aloe alllllll day), or if sports trainers can be compensated by a cute pair of sneakers (usually, yes). Anyway, this […]

The Melbourne Star stands proudly overlooking a newly built area in Docklands, Melbourne, located a stone’s throw away from the Yarra River. It boasts a traditional Ferris Wheel design with an impressive modern look and feel, from both a distant perspective and close by. It is made out of solid steel at 120m high and […]

G’day, I was lucky enough to attend a walking tour of the beautiful CBD and learn about the history of coffee here in Melbourne. And what a history it is! Hosted by Travel Massive Melbourne + Context Travel, we Instragramed the whole thing. Having naturally high energy I normally only indulge in 1 max 2 […]

I once jumped from a 12ft roof and severely injured my nose. I’ve cracked a rib jumping on a trampoline. I’ve even broken my leg falling from 6ft (my height). So when the opportunity to jump out of a plane arose, naturally I approached with extreme caution. Skydive Taupo was the destination and 15000ft was […]

The time for chocolate and hot cross buns is upon us! For many of us, Easter brings the promise of a long weekend and LOTS of chocolate, but not everyone celebrates with an Easter egg hunt or fluffy bunnies… here are 7 weird Easter traditions from around the world. 1) Easter crime, Norway Don't worry, […]

November in Cairns means warmer weather with temperatures ranging from 23°c to 31°c, higher humidity and occasional showers that cool down the air. As the wet season starts to roll in, Cairns becomes vibrant with summer activity – especially for those interested in local fishing tours and crocodile spotting. Catching the Excitement Cairns is best […]