Australia is often seen as one of the best places for backpacking because of its varied landscapes, stunning natural beauty, and lively cities. A road trip is a popular and thrilling way to explore the country, offering travelers the chance to experience breathtaking coastal drives, rugged outback scenery, and iconic landmarks such as the Great Barrier Reef.

If you’re thinking about going on a road trip, it’s crucial to plan your route, pack camping gear, and make sure you have enough food and water for the long stretches between towns. Also, check the car tyres, engine oil, brakes, and other parts to ensure they’re working well. You wouldn’t want any issues cropping up during your trip. Moreover, understanding local road rules and safety measures is essential for a smooth and enjoyable journey. With that in mind, let’s now explore some of the top places to visit in Australia.

Darwin

Those backpackers who make the effort to take the journey out to the Top End are pleasantly surprised with a taste of ‘real Australia’. Darwin is the gateway to Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park and Katherine Gorge. Here backpackers can enjoy ancient Aboriginal culture, spectacular wilderness and loads of adventure.

The accommodation of choice in Darwin is The Melaleuca On Mitchell.

Sydney

Sydney should definitely be the first stop on any backpackers’ list. It will be like a dream come true when you see the iconic Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge for the first time. Visiting the famous Bondi Beach is another destination in Sydney that you cannot afford to miss. You more than likely will see the few over-enthusiastic sunburnt backpackers being saved from the surf by Bondi’s finest lifeguards. And if you want to check out some of the eating delights, you can’t miss going on a Sydney Food Tour to explore the delicacies while walking along the coastline.

The accommodation of choice in Sydney is The Big Hostel.

Cairns

Many backpackers will end up in the capital of Tropical North Queensland at the beginning of winter, after spending the entire summer travelling up and down the east coast. A lot of backpackers choose to work in the north over wintertime, because it is often more affordable than the rest of the East Coast. There are a number of really cool attractions in this area to enjoy before moving on to the next spot.

The accommodation of choice in Cairns is The Calypso Inn

Byron Bay

Byron Bay has balmy temperatures all year round, beautiful beaches, and an extremely laid back type of lifestyle. Byron Bay is a backpacker’s heaven. Thousands of relaxed backpackers spend most of their days on the beaches, hitting the surf and enjoying life to the full. These travellers spend their nights partying the night away at Cocomangas and Cheeky Monkeys nightclubs. Nimbin, which is very close by, is also a favourite for day-trippers!

The accommodation of choice in Byron Bay is The Arts Factory Lodge.

Melbourne

The super stylish Melbourne is a very popular place for backpackers who like seeing a different side of Australia’s beach culture. Backpackers can enjoy the AFL as well as the multitude of quality restaurants and nightlife in the area. Great Ocean Road and St Kilda are some of the favourite Aussie destinations to visit when in Melbourne.

The accommodation of choice in Melbourne is the Basa St Kilda.

Warrnambool

Warrnambool is a coastal city that runs along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria. It has a nearby Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village that gives you a glimpse into the area’s seafaring history through its shipwreck collection. The city offers you the chance to indulge in some whale watching, along with time to spend amidst the rocky scenery.

The accommodation of choice in Warrnambool is Lady Bay Resort hotels Warrnambool.

Airlie Beach & The Whitsundays

This is a small and friendly town similar to Byron bay and is very lucky to be blessed with outstanding natural beauty. Airlie Beach offers backpackers a wide variety of hostels to choose from. There is plenty to do at night and many cheap parties to attend. Backpackers always get good deals on overnight sailing trips to The Whitsundays. Many times, this trip is a highlight of many backpackers who travel round Australia.

The accommodation of choice in Ailie Beach & The Whitsundays is The Beaches.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is part of the East Coast backpacker trail. This place offers fun, sun, and a bit of glitz and glamour as well. Many backpackers visit the Gold Coast to get their first taste of its promise of endless beaches and days filled with fun in the suns. Many backpackers will have to do some fancy thinking when it comes to their budgets, as a lot will go towards a visit to the theme parks!

The accommodation of choice in Surfers Paradise is The Islander.

Hervey Bay & Fraser Island

Hervey Bay is another favourite stopover point for the Fraser Island trip. Great deals are available for backpackers, who are on a self-drive 3-day camping trip to Fraser Island. It really is a true adventure for those backpackers who love swimming in fresh water lakes and four-wheel-driving in the hot sand. Rainbow Beach is an up-and-coming exit point for Fraser Island.

The accommodation of choice in Hervy Bay & Fraser Island is The Beaches.

Perth

Your popularity will sky-rocket for ‘doing’ the West Coast of Australia. Backpackers absolutely love the relaxing capital of the West Coast. Many backpackers also enjoy being away from the main backpackers route of the East Coast. Two places backpackers love to visit in Perth are Fremantle and Rotnest Island.

The accommodation of choice in Perth is The Billabong Resort.

Alice Springs & Uluru

There are a wide variety of tours to Uluru and Alice Springs, including overland tours from Darwin and Adelaide. Alternatively backpackers can take the train or bus out to Alice Springs and if they have some extra cash, they can even fly there. Experiencing The Red Centre is a highlight for many backpackers.

The accommodation of choice in Alice Springs & Uluru is Annie’s Place.