Getting around Australia

Australia is one of the world’s largest countries, so the best way to travel depends on your route, budget and available time. Generally, domestic flights provide the fastest option between distant cities, while a car or campervan gives you more freedom along the coast and in regional areas. Meanwhile, trains and coaches suit travellers who prefer slower journeys or want to avoid driving.

Specifically, this guide explains how to get around Australia by plane, train, coach, car, campervan, ferry, bicycle and city public transport. It also covers realistic journey times, payment methods, road safety, accessibility and ways to reduce travel costs.

Table of Contents

Australia transport comparison

Ultimately, no single transport option works best for every journey. Therefore, compare speed, flexibility and cost before you book.

Choose transport according to your itinerary

• One or two weeks: Fly between distant cities and use local public transport or short car hires.
• East Coast journey: Combine coaches, trains and selected flights, or hire a car for more freedom.
• Outback journey: Use a suitable vehicle, guided tour or long-distance rail service and plan supplies carefully.
• Tasmania: Hire a car or campervan unless your itinerary focuses on Hobart and organised tours.
• Major city break: Use public transport and avoid city-centre parking charges.

Domestic flights in Australia

In practice, flying often makes the most sense when your itinerary includes cities on opposite sides of the country. For example, a direct flight between Sydney and Perth takes about five hours, while driving requires several days once you include sleep and rest stops.

Qantas, Virgin Australia and Jetstar operate many domestic routes. In addition, regional airlines connect smaller centres, islands and remote communities. Routes, schedules and operators can change, so compare current services before you commit to a wider itinerary.

When should you fly?

In particular, choose a domestic flight when the overland journey would consume a large part of your holiday. Flights work particularly well between the east coast and Perth, between southern cities and Darwin, or when you need to reach Cairns quickly from Sydney or Melbourne.

However, air travel may offer less value on shorter corridors. Sydney to Canberra, Melbourne to regional Victoria and Brisbane to the Gold Coast may prove easier by train, coach or car once you include airport travel and security time.

How to find cheaper domestic flights

• Compare the total price after adding checked baggage, seat selection and payment fees.
• Book early for school holidays, Christmas, Easter and major sporting events.
• Check flights from nearby airports, but include transfer costs in your comparison.
• Travel midweek or outside peak hours when your plans allow.
• Leave enough time between separate flight bookings because the second airline may not protect your connection.

Moreover, check baggage limits before you leave for the airport. Budget fares often include less cabin or checked luggage than travellers expect.

Train travel in Australia

Unlike many European countries, Australia does not have one dense national passenger rail network. Instead, state operators run practical regional services, while several famous long-distance trains focus on the journey itself.

Iconic long-distance rail journeys

• The Ghan: Travels between Adelaide and Darwin through the Red Centre, with selected journeys serving Alice Springs.
• Indian Pacific: Crosses the continent between Sydney, Adelaide and Perth.
• Great Southern: Runs seasonally between Adelaide and Brisbane, with some itinerary variations.
• The Overland: Links Melbourne and Adelaide on selected days.

These journeys can cost much more than a flight because some operate as all-inclusive rail holidays with cabins, meals and off-train experiences. Consequently, treat them as travel experiences rather than simple point-to-point transport.

Regional and interstate trains

For instance, NSW TrainLink connects Sydney with regional New South Wales and selected interstate destinations. Victoria’s V/Line network serves many regional towns, while Queensland Rail operates long-distance services across Queensland. Western Australia and South Australia also provide regional rail or coach connections on selected routes.

Book popular services early, especially if you need a sleeper, accessible space or a specific departure. Additionally, confirm station locations because some long-distance services use terminals outside the central business district.

Is train travel a good way to see Australia?

Train travel suits travellers who value scenery, comfort and a slower pace. Nevertheless, it rarely offers the fastest or cheapest nationwide solution. A mixed itinerary usually works better: take trains where the route adds value, then use flights, coaches or a hire car elsewhere.

Long-distance buses and coaches

Similarly, coaches provide a practical option for budget travellers, people who do not drive and visitors following established backpacker routes. Greyhound Australia operates an extensive national coach network across mainland states and territories. Other regional companies serve particular corridors and communities.

For example, popular coach routes include the east coast between Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns, as well as services through inland Queensland, the Northern Territory and parts of South Australia. Some companies also offer flexible travel passes, although you should compare the pass price against individual tickets for your exact route.

Advantages of coach travel

• You avoid car hire, fuel, parking and one-way rental fees.
• Coaches reach many towns that lack airports or useful passenger rail services.
• Overnight services may save one night of accommodation.
• Travel passes can support flexible backpacking itineraries.

Disadvantages of coach travel

Long journeys can become tiring, and timetables may limit spontaneous detours. Furthermore, some stops sit outside town centres, so check how you will reach your accommodation.

Bring water, snacks, a warm layer, headphones and a charged phone. Also, download essential booking details before departure because mobile coverage can disappear in regional and remote areas.

Driving in Australia and hiring a car

By comparison, a car gives you the greatest freedom to explore beaches, national parks, wine regions and small towns. It can also reduce costs when several travellers share the rental and fuel bill. However, Australia’s distances, climate and remote roads require careful planning.

Do tourists need an International Driving Permit?

Importantly, licence rules vary between Australian states and territories. In general, visitors need a current driving licence that covers the vehicle you plan to drive. If the licence does not appear in English, you may also need an official English translation or an International Driving Permit. Therefore, check the rules for every state or territory on your route before driving.

Essential Australian driving rules

• Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
• Wear seatbelts and use approved child restraints.
• Follow posted speed limits, which can change frequently.
• Do not use a handheld phone while driving.
• Observe drink-driving and drug-driving laws.
• Check local rules for parking, toll roads and turning at traffic lights.

Australia enforces road laws through police patrols and cameras. Consequently, do not assume an empty road removes the need to follow the speed limit.

Driving safely in remote Australia

Above all, remote journeys demand more preparation than coastal city driving. Carry drinking water, food, sun protection, a first-aid kit and enough fuel for the distance between reliable service stations. Moreover, tell someone your route and expected arrival time.

Avoid driving at dawn, dusk or night where possible because kangaroos, cattle and other animals may enter the road. Slow down around road trains and allow them plenty of space. If your vehicle breaks down in a remote area, staying with it usually makes you easier to find than walking away.

Unsealed roads and four-wheel-drive routes

Likewise, do not take a standard rental car onto unsealed roads unless the agreement clearly permits it. Some national parks, beaches and outback tracks require a four-wheel-drive vehicle, recovery equipment and previous remote-driving experience. In addition, wet-season rain can close roads with little notice.

Car hire tips

• Compare excess charges, insurance exclusions and roadside assistance, not only the daily rate.
• Check kilometre limits and restrictions on ferries, unsealed roads and remote travel.
• Inspect the car and photograph existing damage before departure.
• Ask about one-way fees if you plan to return the vehicle in another city.
• Budget for fuel, tolls, parking and additional drivers.
• Never leave luggage visible inside a parked car.

Travelling around Australia by campervan

A campervan combines transport and accommodation, which makes it attractive for long road trips. It works particularly well along the east coast, around Tasmania, through Western Australia and on routes between national parks.

However, a campervan does not automatically provide a cheap holiday. Rental rates, fuel, insurance, powered sites, equipment and one-way fees can increase the final price. Larger vehicles also cost more to drive and park.

Can you camp anywhere in Australia?

No. In fact, local councils, national parks and landowners set camping rules, and many popular areas prohibit overnight stays outside designated sites. Use recognised campgrounds, holiday parks or legal rest areas, and follow signs carefully. Additionally, book ahead during school holidays and peak seasons.

Campervan planning checklist

• Choose a vehicle that matches the roads and campsites on your route.
• Check whether the rental includes bedding, cooking equipment and outdoor furniture.
• Confirm power, water, toilet and shower arrangements.
• Understand waste-water and toilet disposal rules.
• Allow extra time because campervans often travel more slowly than cars.
• Keep valuables secure and lock the vehicle whenever you leave it.

Driving distances and travel times between Australian cities

At first glance, maps can make Australian cities look closer than they are. The following figures provide broad planning estimates; your route, traffic, weather, roadworks and rest stops will affect the actual journey.

Do not plan to complete the longest routes in one continuous drive. Instead, divide them into manageable stages and include time for sleep, meals, fuel and unexpected delays.

Public transport in Australian cities

Fortunately, major Australian cities have extensive networks of trains, buses, trams, light rail and ferries. As a result, most visitors do not need a car for central sightseeing.

Public transport tips for visitors

• Tap on and off where the system requires it.
• Use the same physical card, phone or watch for the whole journey.
• Do not switch between a bank card and its digital-wallet version.
• Check whether airport trains or express services charge a separate fare.
• Download the official local journey-planning app or use a trusted maps service.
• Review weekend engineering works before a time-sensitive trip.

Payment systems and fares change, so confirm the latest information on the relevant state transport website before travelling.

Ferries and island transport

Ferries form part of everyday public transport in some cities and provide essential links to islands and peninsulas. Sydney Harbour ferries offer both practical transport and memorable views, while Brisbane’s river services connect several inner-city areas.

Elsewhere, ferries link the mainland with destinations such as Tasmania, Kangaroo Island, Rottnest Island, Magnetic Island and parts of the Whitsundays. Vehicle ferries often require advance booking, particularly during holidays.

Check baggage rules, vehicle dimensions, check-in times and weather updates. Furthermore, allow flexibility if you need to connect with a flight because rough conditions can disrupt some island services.

Cycling and walking in Australia

Likewise, walking works well in central districts, coastal neighbourhoods and compact visitor areas. Popular urban walks include Sydney’s Bondi to Coogee route, Melbourne’s riverside paths and Brisbane’s river walks.

However, cycling infrastructure varies by city and suburb. Melbourne, Canberra, Adelaide, Perth and parts of Sydney and Brisbane offer useful shared paths or separated lanes, although busy roads can still challenge inexperienced riders.

Cycling safety

Australia requires cyclists to follow state and territory road rules, including helmet laws. Use lights after dark, carry water and protect yourself from strong sun. Before a rural ride, also check distances between water, food and repair facilities.

Multi-day walking routes demand similar preparation. Weather can change quickly, and remote trails may lack mobile coverage. Therefore, check official park advice, carry suitable equipment and tell someone your plans.

Can you travel around Australia without a car?

Yes, although your itinerary needs more structure. Flights, long-distance coaches and trains can connect major cities and many regional centres. Organised day tours can then cover national parks, wine regions and remote attractions that lack practical public transport.

Places that are relatively easy without a car

• Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide city centres
• The Gold Coast corridor
• Selected east-coast backpacker destinations
• Canberra’s main visitor areas
• Popular attractions served by organised tours

Places where a car often helps

• Tasmania outside Hobart and Launceston
• Regional Western Australia
• The Great Ocean Road
• Many national parks and rural beaches
• Wine regions with dispersed cellar doors
• Remote parts of the Northern Territory and South Australia

Nevertheless, you do not need to hire a car for your entire holiday. Short regional rentals can reduce cost and avoid paying for a parked vehicle in major cities.

How to save money on transport in Australia

Unsurprisingly, transport can consume a large part of an Australian travel budget. However, a few planning choices can lower the total cost.

• Compare complete prices: Include baggage, airport transfers, insurance, fuel, tolls, parking and one-way fees.
• Mix transport types: Fly the longest sectors, then use local trains, buses or short rentals.
• Book peak dates early: School holidays and major events can raise flight, coach and rental prices.
• Travel with others: Sharing a car or campervan can reduce per-person costs.
• Avoid unnecessary city car hire: Collect the vehicle when you leave the city rather than on arrival.
• Check public transport caps and discounts: Daily caps, off-peak fares and free travel zones may reduce costs.
• Use relocation deals carefully: Campervan relocation offers may look cheap, but strict dates and kilometre limits can make them unsuitable.

For a broader breakdown of accommodation, food and activity costs, read the Australia on a budget guide.

Accessible transport in Australia

Many airports, city transport systems and intercity operators provide accessible services. These may include step-free stations, wheelchair spaces, boarding ramps, hearing loops, priority seating and assistance for travellers with vision or mobility needs.

However, accessibility varies by route, vehicle and station. Contact the operator before travel if you need a lift, mobility-aid space, accessible toilet or help boarding. Additionally, book assistance early for flights and long-distance rail journeys.

Travellers who use mobility aids should confirm size and weight limits. They should also ask how an operator handles battery-powered equipment and whether replacement transport remains accessible during disruption.

Practical transport planning and safety tips

Check seasonal conditions

Bushfires, floods, cyclones, extreme heat and snow can close roads or disrupt flights, trains and ferries. Conditions also vary across the country at the same time. Therefore, review weather warnings and transport updates shortly before each journey.

Allow more time than the map suggests

Long drives require regular breaks. In addition, roadworks, wildlife, fuel stops and changing weather can delay arrival. Build spare time into any journey that connects with a flight, ferry or booked tour.

Keep your phone connected

Download maps, tickets and booking confirmations before entering areas with weak coverage. A local SIM or travel eSIM can help with navigation and updates, although no provider covers every remote road.

Use official information

Check state transport authorities, road agencies, national parks and operators for current timetables, closures and ticket rules. Social media posts and old travel blogs may contain outdated fares or services.

Plan your wider trip

Transport choices depend on weather, visa conditions and the length of your visit. Before booking, review the Australia visa requirements, travel health advice for Australia and the guide to the best time to visit Australia.

FAQs: About getting around Australia

Summary

Getting around Australia requires realistic planning because distances can be enormous. Generally, a combination of flights, public transport and short car hires offers the best balance of speed, cost and freedom for most trips. By contrast, a campervan or long-distance road trip suits travellers with more time who want to explore regional landscapes in depth.

Finally, before departure, compare full transport costs, verify current timetables and check road or weather warnings. Most importantly, allow enough time to enjoy the journey rather than treating every route as a race between destinations.