Australia Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Canberra
- Currency
- AUD (Dollar)
- Best time to visit
- Varies by region. Sydney is great year-round. Uluru is best May–August.
Visa requirements
An ETA or eVisitor is required for most nationalities. Apply online before departure.
Getting around
Distances are huge, so domestic flights (Qantas, Virgin, Jetstar) are the practical way between major cities, supplemented by long-distance trains and coaches. Within cities, reliable metro/train, tram and bus networks use contactless or smartcards (Opal in Sydney, Myki in Melbourne), and Uber plus taxis are widely available.
Safety
Australia is very safe. Unique hazards include extreme sun and some venomous wildlife.
Tipping customs
Tipping is not expected in Australia thanks to high minimum wages, though it's a welcome gesture for good service. In restaurants 10% for excellent service is generous but optional, taxi fares are usually just rounded up, and hotel tipping is uncommon.
Travel tips
Distances are enormous — plan transit carefully. Apply sunscreen religiously.