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Don't underestimate the size of Australia. Getting around this massive country requires a little planning, but with the right transport choices, you can explore everything from buzzing coastal cities to remote Outback landscapes.
Whether you're flying between major hubs, taking the train across the continent, road-tripping in a campervan or cruising the coast by coach, here's what you need to know about travelling around Australia.
Transport around Australia
Australia is made up of six states and two territories, covering almost 7.7 million square kilometres. It's one of the largest countries in the world, and the distances between destinations can be vast. In fact, over 85% of Australians live within 50km of the coast, leaving huge inland areas sparsely populated.
So, don't set unrealistic goals to see the whole country in three weeks - that's not going to happen.
The eastern states - Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria - contain many of the country's largest cities and popular travel routes. But even here, distances can be surprising. Driving from Melbourne to Cairns, for example, takes around 30 hours without stopping.
Travelling from coast to coast is even more ambitious. The journey between the east and west coast span more than 3,900 kilometres, crossing the wide open landscapes of the Outback along the way.
With so much ground to cover, there are many ways to get around. Some methods of transport are fast and expensive; others are much slower but way cheaper. Luckily, it's easy to find transport that suits your needs and budget when getting from A to B.
Flying around Australia
For long distances, flying is usually the fastest and most practical option. Australia's major domestic airlines include Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar and Rex, offering extensive networks connecting major cities and many regional centres.
Flights between the eastern cities typically take one to two hours, while the longest domestic routes - such as Sydney to Perth - take around five hours.
Budget airlines can offer competitive fares if you book early or travel outside peak holiday periods. However, many cheaper fares come with strict luggage allowances. Carry-on baggage is often limited to around 7kg in economy, and checked baggage usually costs extra.
Regional flights may also operate on smaller aircraft, which sometimes means even stricter weight limits - something to keep in mind if you're travelling to remote areas like the Kimberley or parts of the Northern Territory.
If your time in Australia is limited, flying between major cities can save days of travel.
Traveling Australia by Coach or Bus
For travellers on a budget, buses are one of the most affordable ways to explore Australia - especially along the popular East Coast route between Melbourne and Cairns. Sit back, relax and admire the vast open road as someone else does the driving for you.
The country's largest long-distance coach network is Greyhound Australia, connecting major cities and smaller towns across the country.
Many travellers use the company's Whimit travel passes, which allow unlimited travel on the Greyhound network for a set number of consecutive days. These passes provide flexibility for travellers who want to hop between destinations while keeping costs manageable.
Modern coaches typically include air conditioning, reclining seats, USB charging and Wi-Fi, making even long journeys reasonably comfortable. Which is important, as going by coach will take longer, so make sure you have something to keep you entertained and travel in comfortable clothes.
While buses are slower than flying, they offer a relaxed way to see the country and meet fellow travellers along the way.
Travel by Train in Australia
Train travel is one of the most scenic ways to experience Australia's landscapes. While rail networks between cities exist in several states, some of the country's most famous train journeys are long-distance luxury routes across the continent.
Two iconic rail journeys stand out:
Travelling between Adelaide and Darwin, this legendary train journey crosses the heart of the Outback over several days, rolling along tracks constructed in the 1870s and stopping at destinations like Alice Springs on the way. A luxurious sleeper cabin on The Ghan is one of the world's greatest train trips.
The Indian Pacific
Running coast to coast between Sydney and Perth, this cross-country journey travels from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean, including a stretch across the vast Nullarbor Plain. This memorable adventure follows a route opened in 1970, the first to connect Australia's east and west in a single train journey.
Along the east coast, regular train services also connect major cities and regional towns, offering an opportunity to see the countryside and a comfortable way to travel if you prefer a slower pace than flying.
Driving or Caravanning around Australia
For ultimate flexibility, many travellers choose to explore Australia by car, caravan or campervan. Road trips are one of the best ways to discover national parks, coastal drives and small towns that aren't easily reached by public transport - you get the opportunity to get up close and personal with big cities and places so remote you'll wonder if there's anybody out there.
Popular driving routes include:
- The Great Ocean Road in Victoria
- The Pacific Coast drive between Sydney and Brisbane
- The Red Centre Way in the Northern Territory
- Western Australia's Coral Coast Highway
Rental cars are widely available at major airports and city centres, while campervan hire allows you to combine transport and accommodation.
If you're planning a long road trip, keep these tips in mind:
- Plan fuel stops carefully, especially in remote areas where distances between towns can be significant.
- Download offline maps before heading into regions with limited phone coverage.
- Avoid driving at dawn or dusk in rural areas, when wildlife is most active.
- Carry extra water, especially when travelling through the Outback.
- Make sure the spare tire is in good shape and you know what to do if you need it.
Caravan parks and campsites are easy to find across the country, particularly with the guidance of apps like WikiCamps Australia, making campervan travel a popular choice for both locals and international visitors.
Choosing the Best Way to Travel
The best transport option depends on your travel style:- Short on time: Fly between major cities
- On a budget: Coaches and travel passes offer affordable options
- Looking for scenery: Trains and road trips deliver unforgettable views
- Want total freedom: A car, caravan or campervan lets you explore at your own pace
Most travellers combine several of these methods to see the best of Australia - flying long distances, road-tripping scenic regions and using buses or trains to fill the gaps.
One thing is certain: no matter how you travel, exploring Australia is an adventure in itself.
Tourism Resources
Looking for further inspiration for your grand Australian adventure? You can find guidance on destinations, routes, accommodation and activities on each regions' tourism website:
Travel Insurance
We all know that the good times can take a slight detour when travelling. When the going gets tough, Travel Insurance Direct domestic policies may assist with travel insurance cover for your trip around Australia, to help keep your trip moving in the right direction - so you can focus on the fun.
Cover is subject to the policy terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions. Consider the PDS and TMD and if the product is right for you.