Planes
The quickest and easiest way to get around is by air travel.
Depending on your budget, there are operators that provide you with the highest calibre of service, most notably Qantas, or low cost airlines, such as Virgin Blue and Jet Star.
Providing you book in advance and are willing to fly in the week, you can fly between Sydney and Melbourne from around $70 with Jet Star or Virgin Blue.
Flights between Sydney and Brisbane will cost around $120, roughly the same price as between Brisbane and Melbourne.
Many of the more rural tourist destinations up the coast do have airports although continuously flying from location to location can prove expensive.
Buses
Buses are a cheap and easy way to get around the country, and provide you with the utmost flexibility. The sheer magnitude of the country means that it can take a while to get from point to point, but for many this simply provides an opportunity to see much more than you would by flying and get a real feel for what a vast country Australia is.
Buses are regular and reliable, and as well as simple one way tickets from location to location, you can actually save some money by investing in a series of passes.
For example the Mini Travellers to/from Cairns Pass allows you unlimited stops either from Melbourne all the way up to Cairns, or the same journey in reverse, for $353, over 45 days.
There are a number of packages available at www.greyhound.com.au to suit every trip.
Car
A second hand car can be picked up very cheaply and gives you the freedom to travel the coast at your leisure. Furthermore, if you have a few passengers your expenses will be cut dramatically. You’ll be able to plan your journey at your own pace and not rely on flights, bus times and routes.
A car also means you can carry around all of your luggage fairly easily, rather than having to leave things behind if you travel on a bus or plane.
It’s easy to get ripped off though, so make sure you have a qualified mechanic give the car an inspection, and also ensure it has all the proper documentation such as a green and pink slip.
Car & camper van hire
If you are not keen on purchasing your own car and the responsibilities that come with it, there are many car and camper van companies for all budgets.
For those that are looking to spend a long time exploring the region, and thus have many possessions and equipment, a camper van is advisable. This also provides you with the option of free accommodation if needs be. You can find a range of campervans through Travellers Autobarn (www.travellers-autobarn.com) or Hippy Campers (www.hippiecamper.com).
 |
 |
 |