How to Travel Australia with Teenagers for Less

Australia is a vast and diverse country that offers a plethora of experiences for families, including teenagers. However, planning a trip can be a balancing act between the incredible adventures and the budgetary constraints. In this guide, we'll provide you with several strategies to travel around Australia for cheaper with your family of teenagers.

Understanding the Costs of Traveling in Australia

Australia is both a cheap and expensive destination, depending on what you're seeking. Some activities and attractions can be expensive, while others are free or offer significant cost savings. It's important to use your budget wisely and prioritize activities that align with your family's interests.

Strategizing Your Itinerary

Given the expansive nature of Australia, it's not feasible to see everything in a short span. Most travelers aim to visit Sydney, Melbourne, the Gold Coast, and Cairns within two weeks. However, the cost of flights between these cities can quickly add up, making the overall trip more expensive.

To manage costs and make the most of your time, consider booking two central cities at the beginning and end of your trip—Sydney and the Gold Coast. Both cities offer plenty to see and do without extensive travel by car, making them ideal for extended stays. With proper planning, you can allocate around 5 days in each city, and even more if you wish.

Transportation: Saving on Travel and Tours

The best way to save money on travel and tours is by hiring a car. This approach is particularly advantageous if you're starting or ending your trip in these central cities. You won't need a car for these locations, reducing your transportation costs.

Accommodation: Balancing Comfort and Costs

Hotels can be a significant expense in Australia. Fortunately, there are affordable alternatives. Families can opt for rooms with double beds and bunk beds, or even suites, which are often not much more expensive than a standard double room.

The most cost-effective option is camping. While some might suggest campervans for convenience, the current demand has led to higher daily rental costs, often up to $200 for a two-person campervan. As an alternative, renting a car and purchasing affordable, basic camping gear like tents, camp stoves, camping chairs, sleeping bags, and air mattresses can be a considerable cost-saving measure.

Prices for camping range from free to around $50 per family. Some campsites offer additional amenities like swimming pools, camp kitchens, shops, and easy beach access. Notably, some places allow you to camp right next to the ocean for very little money. Many of these campsites boast amazing features such as creeks for swimming, hiking trails, and scenic views, making them ideal spots for both campers and those planning day trips into nearby cities.

Purchasing and Using a Secondhand Vehicle

For an even more cost-effective solution, consider buying a secondhand campervan or RV large enough to accommodate your entire family. Alternatively, you could opt for a 4WD and caravan. Ensure that the vehicle can easily tow the caravan and is suitable for camping grounds and caravan parks. This setup may involve some initial investment, but the ability to prepare your own meals is a significant cost-saving measure.

At the conclusion of your trip, you can sell the vehicle on the secondhand market, potentially recouping some of your initial expenses.

Incorporating Thrill andexcitement

To keep your teenage children engaged and happy during your travels, budget for a few fun and memorable experiences. Whether it's visiting theme parks or attending events, incorporating these cool things into your itinerary will make the trip even more special.

Plan ahead and make use of online resources to find the best deals. With careful planning and creative budgeting, you can travel Australia with your teenage family and make memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!

Remember, the key to successful budget travel lies in strategic planning, smart choices, and prioritizing the experiences that matter most to you and your family.