How to Backpack in Australia

Anyone landing in Australia has no qualms in backpacking. Huge in its landscape, Australia is home to mountains and other interesting terrains. You won't get to see towns everywhere, and of course there is a long distance between each and every town. That's why you see eight capitals in Australia. There is so much to explore in this much unexplored continent. That promises you vast terrains of poignant exquisiteness. At the same time, the country is also home to sweet yet dangerous creatures such as kangaroos. But a well planned journey would assure some protection as well as great fun.

Step 1: Be Ready for the Unexpected

Backpacking is an adventure. Whether you travel solo or with a team, you are mostly on your own. So you need to be ready to expect the unexpected. Australia's vastness in landscape has an uncertain air. Sometimes you will have to walk for kilometres without meeting a single grocery shop. And then you might meet strangers too: animals as well as humans. If you are lucky, animals won't harm you. But do not expect every animal to be just calm and quiet. They will charge at you any time. So be ready for all that with necessary equipment to protect yourself.

Step 2: What Is Your Budget?

Before setting off, you need to decide on your budget. If you have no issues for money, then you have nothing to worry. But if you have serious concerns, by all means you need to plan your budget. If you are staying at a Melbourne serviced accommodation, approach their helpdesk and get a rough idea on Australian pricing system. Then you can have a rough idea on how your budget is going to be.

Step 3: Do Not Try to Cover Too Many Places

Most travellers commit this error. Because they are pressed for time, they simply want to cover the maximum number of places within that time frame. But do not ever commit that error. Cover many places, and you will in fact enjoy none. Backpacking is an adventurous journey, not a business or duty tour. You are supposed to enjoy every moment. So when you reach a certain landmark, spend some time there.

Step 4: First Aid Kit

This sounds too obvious, but needs a mention. You not only need a first aid kit, but you also need some familiarity with the stuff in your first aid kit. For instance, you should know which medicine to take when you suddenly have a cramp. Or you should know how to apply a gauze on your wound.

Step 5: Water Bottles

This looks like an unwise advice, since water bottles consume space and weight of your baggage. But since you might not come across a grocery while in the expedition, you should have a pack of water bottles. It will be heavy, but worth the weight when you are far away from any town.

Step 6: Animal Danger

Like mentioned earlier, Australian animals are so lovable in their looks. But in reality there are venomous snakes, crocodiles, spiders and stinging fish. Even the kangaroos could pose a danger, if they feel any sign of danger from you. This tip could be a killjoy, but it is always better to be ready than regret later. Consult a local expert from somewhere such as Citadines on Bourke Melbourne who would brief you on how to avoid these dangerous creatures.

Step 7: Avoid Dangerous Areas

Australia has its own share of dangerous areas. They include areas where pubs are located within close proximity. Drunkards may pose nuisance, more than threat, to your journey. So beware of them. Ask any local for any such areas, and they will willingly enlighten you.