Australia uses the Australian dollar (AUD, A$) as its official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout the country, but it's still useful to carry cash.

You may think Australia is just hot and sunny, but it's a huge landmass and the weather varies greatly by region and season. The north is tropical with a clear wet and dry season, while the south, like Victoria, has four distinct seasons. Summer (December to February) means glorious beach days, especially along the east coast, while inland areas get seriously hot. Winters (June to August) are mild in most places.

Yes, it does snow in parts of Australia. Snow typically falls in the alpine regions of New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania during the winter months (June to August). Popular ski destinations include Thredbo, Perisher, and Mount Buller.

Australia is known for its stunning natural landscapes, unique wildlife, and laid-back lifestyle. Highlights include the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, Sydney Opera House, and vast Outback. The country is also famous for its beaches, multicultural cities, and world-class wine and food scenes.

Australia is known for its fresh produce, multicultural cuisine, and laid-back food culture. Popular dishes include meat pies, barramundi, lamingtons, and pavlova. You’ll also find a strong coffee culture and excellent wine and seafood across the country. Indigenous bush foods are also gaining recognition in modern Australian cuisine.

Tipping isn’t a big part of Australian culture. That said, it’s always appreciated for great service—rounding up or leaving 10% at a nice restaurant is more than enough, as well as small tips for taxis and hotel staff. No need to stress or do mental math after every flat white.

Tipping isn’t a big part of Australian culture. That said, it’s always appreciated for great service—rounding up or leaving 10% at a nice restaurant is more than enough, as well as small tips for taxis and hotel staff. No need to stress or do mental math after every flat white.

Yes, most travelers—including US citizens—need a visa to visit Australia. The good news is, it’s usually a quick and easy process online. For short tourist stays, the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is common. Always check the latest requirements before you fly, as entry rules can change.

Yes, most travelers—including US citizens—need a visa to visit Australia. The good news is, it’s usually a quick and easy process online. For short tourist stays, the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is common. Always check the latest requirements before you fly, as entry rules can change.

Australia turns the typical travel calendar upside down—summer runs December to February, and winter falls mid-year. For beach breaks and city hopping, late spring (October–November) and early fall (March–April) hit the sweet spot with fewer crowds and lovely weather. If you're heading north, the dry season (May–October) is ideal.

Australia uses plug type I, which has two flat pins in a V-shape and sometimes a third grounding pin. The voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz, so check to ensure your electronics are compatible.

Australia has excellent ATM access—you’ll find them in airports, towns, shopping centers, and even small country pubs. Most accept international cards, but check with your bank about foreign transaction fees. In rural areas, ATMs may be fewer and far between, so it’s wise to have a bit of cash on hand.

Yes, tap water is safe to drink in most parts of Australia and is often high quality. Bring a reusable bottle and fill up as you go. If you’re heading to remote or rural areas, bottled water is easy to find, and a filtration bottle can be a handy backup.

Australia’s climate varies, so pack for the region and season you’re visiting. Essentials include comfortable walking shoes, strong sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF), a light jacket, and layers for cooler evenings. If you’re headed to the Outback or rainforest, throw in bug spray and a travel umbrella too.

Given its size and location, Australia isn’t a short-stay kind of destination. If you're crossing continents to get there, aim for at least 10–14 days to explore one or two regions properly. You'll want to see the coastal cities as well as natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, so it's a place best enjoyed at a relaxed pace.

We highly recommend guests purchase travel insurance prior to your trip. Please ensure you add the details of your insurance to the MyTrafalgar portal.

Your insurance should cover trip interruption, personal injury, medical expenses, and evacuation and repatriation cover including during pandemic events.

Book your travel insurance with Trafalgar's Travel Protection Plan, which includes the Cancel For Any Reason Credit Certificate Feature and the Travel Insurance Benefits that may help to protect your vacation payment against the unexpected.