Know where you want to go but need help
with train or bus timetables, what to see
and when to go? Or need to choose between
itineraries or cut down days on the road?
Here's a few basic tips below. If we haven't
answered your question then contact us at
oceania@backpackglobe.com
We can help plan and tailor a trip to fit
your needs
and interests. We answer all enquiries within
1-2 days
and are happy to assist you.
WHERE TO GO
If you're not sure where you want to go
and what you want to see check out our Oceanian
BP cities guide or email us for information.
Do a bit of research to tailor a holiday.
If you like beaches try the north Queensland
coast, if you prefer skiing try New Zealand
options, for a bit of island life visit
Fiji.
HOLIDAY LENGTH
A whirlwind tour of any country will not
give you a great experience or understanding
of it but maybe all the time you have. If
this is the case see our notes about not
doing too much. Perhaps you might be better
choosing a destination closer to home so
you don't spend all your money on getting
there and all your time. Remember jet lag
can also reduce travel time by a day or
two. Otherwise choose just a few select
spots and base your time there. For example
if it's a week base around Sydney or Melbourne,
you can day trip out of the city and do
other things. Most travellers find one month
allows you to see a lot of the country,
in Australia that might be considered a
minimum. Click here for more ideas for itineraries.
PACKING
Do remember you can and will buy things
along the way so leave some room in your
suitcase! All items should be available
in Oceania so unless you have specific needs
there is no need to worry. Obviously the
season of travel will determine your wardrobe.
A lot of travellers make the mistake of
taking too much with them. Don't pack according
to what you would wear at home. Remember
you have to carry what you take and no one
will know if you've worn the same
thing 3 days in a row. Please see our packing
guide for more details.
DAYS OFF
Try to schedule in about one day off in
4 or at least in a week so you can relax
and unwind. Also try and vary your itinerary
for example travelling up the east coast
of Australia is all beach, head inland for
some other sights and experiences.
SIGHTSEEING
Walking around all day is exhausting. "Downtime"
is a popular concept among travellers where
you should dedicate at least 1-2 hours in
the late afternoon not doing much. This
can be writing postcards, checking email,
having a snack or just sitting in a cafe
watching life pass by. This is often when
you learn most about a place anyway.
DON'T DO TOO MUCH
A lot of travellers make the mistake of
thinking more is better. Slow down your
travel a little and you'll enjoy it a lot
more. Rushing from place to place won't
give you much idea of it and chances are
you will end up coming home more tired than
you started. Big cities require about 3-4
days, small towns maybe 2 days. Small towns
are usually a good option for relaxing a
bit if there is less to do then you'll feel
less compelled to walk the streets day in
and day out.