Solo travel in Australia is a thrilling and safe adventure. Here is your guide to plan your beautiful trip in Down Under.
As one of the most beautiful travel destinations in our world, Australia is truly an amazing place to visit.
For example, it’s full of welcoming locals, awesome infrastructure, and diverse country.
In other words, it’s easy to travel by yourself.
This guide has everything from cities, beaches, and to remote wilderness. For instance, you will find out where to visit, what to eat, and even where to shop.
Plus, expect a 2-week itinerary you can use as a template for your own solo trip.
So, if you’re visiting this gorgeous country, keep reading!
Solo Travel in Australia
Australia is destination everyone should visit at least once in their lives. So, expect your solo travel in Australia to be an exciting and liberating experience.
For example, whether you’re visiting Sydney’s legendary Opera House, diving in the Great Barrier Reef, or road-tripping along the Great Ocean Road, there’s no shortage of adventure.
Of course, Australia is also super safe. As a result, hostels, guided tours, and digital nomad communities present you with great opportunities to meet like-minded travelers.
Plus, the country’s excellent public transport and domestic flights will make getting around easy. And renting a car or campervan unlocks off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Meanwhile, Australia has a lot of airports to choose from. Personally, I recommend arriving through Sydney’s Kingsford Smith Airport.
And, expect to use the Australian Dollar or AUD across the country, with ATMs everywhere and credit/debit cards in full use.
Now, the country has a few ridesharing options, including Uber, Didi, and Ola, along with female-specific Shebah.
And if you’re visiting from far, know that Australia has several time zones. They include AWST (UTC+8:00), ACWST (UTC+8:45), ACST (UTC+9:30), AEST (UTC+10:00), and LHST (UTC+10:30).
Oh, and definitely get travel insurance. Make sure to have full coverage health insurance, just in case.
So, yeah, that about covers the basics.
Best Time to Visit
Adventurous things to do in Australia happen throughout the year. This means you’re likely to find a period of the year that works for you personally.
“Don’t be afraid to visit Australia any time of the year,” says Tom Larson, our adventure writer. “As social media became more prominent, unrealistic posts present it as a dangerous country,” he adds. “Instead, I would say see Australia as the perfect place for adventure.”
For most tourists, though, the best time to visit for a solo travel in Australia is summer. Summer, which goes December to February, is perfect for beaches and festivals but can be hot in some areas.
But, seriously, for those of you from the Northern Hemisphere, imagine visiting during Christmas in the heat.
Of course, autumn, which is from March to May, does give you more of a mild weather and fewer crowds. This period is ideal for outdoor adventures.
And winter, which goes from June to August, is another fun time. Winter is awesome for skiing in the south and exploring the tropical north, where it’s dry and comfortable.
Meanwhile, spring, which is from September to November, is my favorite. This season brings blooming landscapes and pleasant temperatures.
For solo travelers, shoulder seasons (autumn and spring) will give you the best balance of good weather, affordability, and fewer tourists.
So, yeah, figure out when you want to go.
Solo Travel Australia Aesthetic
Travel aesthetic for Australia is super diverse. Therefore, for your solo travel in Australia, expect the perfect mix of raw gorgeous nature and modern liveliness.
“Because of its diverse aesthetic, I recommend bringing different outfits that work for the different areas,” says Lena Wilson, our style editor.
For example, vast, sunburnt landscapes stretch into the horizon, with golden beaches, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs.
Of course, the Outback’s red earth contrasts with super vivid rainforests and rolling green vineyards.
And sunsets here paint the sky in fiery hues, while starry nights in remote areas feel endless.
Meanwhile, Australian cities give you a cool mix of sleek architecture with street art, botanical gardens, and waterfront skylines.
Plus, the aesthetic shifts with the seasons. For instance, from spring’s wildflower blooms to winter’s misty mountains, this country is seasonal to the core.
So, whether urban or wild, Australia’s visual aesthetic is a beautiful fusion of color, texture, and untamed life.
Places to Visit in Australia Alone
Australian beaches are most certainly my favorite destinations in this country. However, your solo travel in Australia really give you a variety.
For example, there are incredible destinations that focus on different interests. That is, you will be able to find your own favorites in no time.
For city lovers, lively urban hubs present you with colorful nightlife, amazing cultural experiences, and gorgeous waterfronts. Choose from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and so much more.
Of course, beach enthusiasts like myself will definitely find pristine coastlines, ideal for surfing, snorkeling, or simply unwinding by the sea.
For example, you will get to choose from Sydney’s Bondi, the Gold Coast’s Surfers Paradise Beach, Tasmania’s Bay of Fires, Kangaroo Island’s Vivonne Bay, among a ton of others.
Likewise, adventurers have so much, too. Expect to explore rugged landscapes, national parks, and vast desert regions, perfect for hiking and wildlife encounters.
For example, there are the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in the Northern Territory, the Daintree Rainforest in Queensland, the South Australian section of the Great Victoria Desert (GVD), and more.
Meanwhile, for those of you seeking peaceful experiences, the remote islands and countryside retreats offer wonderful escapes.
For example, Rottnest Island, which is just off of Perth, is super peaceful, as is K’gari, off of Wide Bay–Burnett.
And, road trips along scenic coastal highways or into the heart of the Outback will give unforgettable experiences.
So, Australia’s diverse regions will definitely give you something that resonates with you.
Solo Female Travel in Australia
Whether you’re into solo beach pics or dancing the night away, Australia is a fantastic destination for female travelers.
As a result, your solo travel in Australia means safety, friendly locals, and well-developed infrastructure.
For example, women get to explore with confidence, whether in cities, beaches, or remote areas.
If you want to meet people, expect hostels, group tours, and social meetups to make it easy to connect. For instance, cities in this country love their cafe culture.
Of course, public transportation is reliable, and rideshare apps add extra convenience. So, getting around as a solo female traveler is safe and easy.
Meanwhile, although Australia is generally safe, common solo travel precautions still apply. For example, you will want stay aware, trust your instincts, and research accommodations.
But, please, know that a solo trip in this ccountry really is awesome. For instance, many female travelers report the experience to be empowering.
What to Eat
Get your food travel aesthetics planned because this destination will give you plenty of reasons to click, click, click.
Solo traveler in Australia means a chance to enjoy a diverse food scene. For example, there is everything from casual cafés to fine dining.
“Australia is a modern country, and so is its food,” says Nina Walker, our food writer. “Of course, there are classic Aussie dishes you must try. They include meat pies, fish and chips, and avocado toast.”
Seafood is one area you do not want to miss. For example, expect a ton from this, with fresh prawns, oysters, and barramundi widely available.
Meanwhile, the markets here present delicious street food, from Thai curries to Mediterranean wraps. As you will learn, this actually reflects the country’s multicultural influences.
Also, as I said before, coffee culture is strong. Therefore, expect to find plenty of cozy cafés serving world-class brews.
For a true local experience, try a barbecue with kangaroo or lamb. Kangaroo meat is a super unique experience I would highly recommend.
Plus, vegetarian and vegan options are plentiful here. This makes it easy to find meals to suit any dietary preference.
Where to Shop
Travel shopping is a thing in Australia. If you play your cards right, you might even score unique things you won’t find anywhere else.
That is, solo travel in Australia means a chance to shop for souvenirs, fashion, and local crafts.
For instance, you will find out that your options will include Aboriginal art, boomerangs, and didgeridoos. These are all a chance to really appreciate the Aboriginal culture.
I highly recommend the Burrunju Aboriginal Corporation in the Australian Capital Territory.
Of course, there are plenty of markets that have handmade jewelry, organic skincare, and artisan foods. For example, expect to score macadamia nuts and locally made chocolates.
Glebe Markets is a great example. This market is in Sydney and is open on Saturdays.
Meanwhile, fashionistas have so much to choose from. For instance, you get to explore trendy boutiques featuring Australian designers, while surf shops sell stylish beachwear and eco-friendly swimwear.
Head over to Chadstone Shopping Centre in Victoria. As the locals call it the “Fashion Capital,” it means you will have a lot of choices.
If you’re wondering what to buy, think about wool products, including merino scarves and UGG boots. They make great keepsakes.
And vintage and thrift stores are super popular here too. Expect budget-friendly finds. For example, Circa Vintage in Melbourne has been serving it up since the 1980s!
So, whether in busy city centers or small coastal towns, shopping in Australia is a chance to experience a mix of culture, style, and sustainability.
2-Week Solo Travel Australia Itinerary
A two-week solo travel in Australia is enough to give you a fun experience. Expect a perfect mix of city visits, beaching, and adventure from this itinerary.
For days 1 through 4, start your trip in a city. Enjoy the amazing landmarks, incredible museums, and the busy markets.
Try the world-class dining, explore the parks, and experience the nightlife.
I would highly recommend dedicating a day to a nearby coastal walk or wildlife sanctuary for a taste of nature.
Honestly, I can’t recommend Sydney enough!
Days 5 to 7 should be about beaches. Visit a beautiful beach destination that is perfect for relaxation or water activities.
For example, try snorkeling, surfing, or kayaking. Australia is awesome to enjoy the water.
Of course, visit coastal markets, sample fresh seafood, and join a guided tour to nearby islands or marine reserves.
And, sunsets by the ocean are always a magical experience. Don’t forget to grab pictures and videos as memories, too.
Meanwhile, days 8 to 11 should be about the outback or rainforest. This gives you a chance to venture into Australia’s rugged interior or vivid rainforests.
For example, take a guided hiking tour, spot unique wildlife, and allow yourself to get to know Indigenous culture.
Personally, I think stargazing in remote areas is awesome and gives you a deeper connection to nature.
And days 12 to 14 should focus on a road trip or just preparing to leave. For example, rent a car or join a small-group tour for a scenic road trip along a famous coastal or countryside route.
Stop at charming towns, wineries, and hidden gems. I absolutely loved the wines in Australia.
And then, end your trip with a relaxing day at a local café, thinking about your adventure before heading home.
What to Avoid
Your solo travel in Australia is pretty much fun, but there are still a few things I would like to ask you to avoid.
First of all, avoid underestimating distances. This is a vast country, and long drives can be exhausting.
Of course, you ought to always check weather conditions. This is especially in the Outback or coastal areas prone to sudden changes.
Please, be cautious with wildlife. For example, avoid feeding or approaching animals. And watch for jellyfish or strong currents when swimming.
Meanwhile, stay aware in remote areas. Do this by carrying enough water, informing someone of your plans, and using offline maps.
And, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar place. You also want to be mindful of local laws, such as strict quarantine rules for food and plants.
So, yeah, with basic precautions, your solo travel here will be safe and rewarding.
Final Thoughts
A solo travel in Australia is memorable. It truly is a wonderful mix of adventure, relaxation, and unique experiences.
This guide has taken you through Australia’s amazing cities, gorgeous beaches, and remote wilderness.
Also, you’ve had a chance to visit top destinations, tried local cuisine, and explored the best shopping spots.
So, with these insights, you’re ready to plan an unforgettable solo adventure.
Enjoy Australia!
AJ Paris is a travel photographer based in New York. He is the editor of Caravanzers.
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