Guide to Backpacking in Australia

Australia is a popular destination for backpackers alike. The beautiful weather and amazing sights paired with a very backpacker friendly country draws people from all over the world.

Australia caters very well to backpackers. There are hostels located in every city and many tour bus companies to begin your trek across the country. Flights within Australia are also a reasonable price. It's easy to meet other people while backpacking and it's not uncommon to begin travelling with some friends made along the way. The Lonely Planet is a good reference guide to use while on your travels in Australia.

So, what to see while you're in Australia? Well here are a few ideas to get you started. Remember it's a large country though and there is always something to see or do. This just a brief list to give you some ideas.

1. Manly Beach is just a short ferry ride away from Sydney, New South Wales. It's a popular beach that is always packed with people. There are some great stores if you're interested in doing some shopping as well.

2. Taronga Zoo, Sydney. The location of the zoo is an amazing location along Sydney's beautiful waterfront Harbour. You are even able to take a small ferry to the Zoo. The Zoo is home to many of Australia's native animals as well as many exotic animals.

3. Brisbane and the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. This is a sanctuary devoted to the preservation of Koala Bears. You can even have your pictures taken with these cute little animals.

4. Byron Bay is a popular spot on the backpacker trail. It's a surfer spot with beautiful beaches and a low key lifestyle.

5. Surfer's Paradise! A popular and busy spot full of backpackers. There is always something to see or do. The beach is huge and don't forget to take a pictures of the must-see Surfer's Paradise Sign. You'll never be bored in Surfer's Paradise.

6. Fraser Island Trip. These can be organized tours or you can register with a company who will pair you with a group of people on a 4x4 exhibition. All supplies are included and you will see some amazing sights such as Mackenzie Lake, Indian Heads, the Rainbow Sands, and Dingo's just to name a few. It's usually a two or three night trip.

7. Whitsundays Sailing Trip. These depart from Airlie Beach and there are many companies to choose from. Just make sure you do your research on the different companies. The sailing trip will usually involve a few different snorkelling stops plus some time on the beautiful island of Whitsunday. If you're lucky the weather will be beautiful and sunny making for a fabulous time and a beautiful sight.

8. Cairns. A beautiful spot to just stop and enjoy some relaxation. There is a man-made lagoon in the centre of town so you can cool down from the heat.

9. Cape Tribulation Trip. There are many tours up to Cape Tribulation which again can vary from 1 night on. A typical tour consists of a boat ride down the Daintree River where your tour guide will point out the different crocodiles, even some with their own nicknames. You can explore the beautiful rainforest area, but be careful as snakes and crocodiles are common in the area.

10. Great Barrier Reef. An amazing place to scuba dive.