Spring Break is a beacon of freedom for college students, offering a respite from the rigors of academia. It’s a time to recharge, explore, and make memories that last a lifetime. As 2024 approaches, the quest for the perfect Spring Break destination is on. Here’s a roundup of the top 10 must-visit spots that promise adventure, relaxation, and fun.
1. Cancun, Mexico
For good reason, Cancun has long been the quintessential Spring Break destination. Its crystal-clear waters, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage make it a haven for students looking to unwind. Spend your days lounging on the powdery white beaches or diving into the mesmerizing cenotes. As the sun sets, the city transforms into a party paradise, offering everything from laid-back beach bars to high-energy clubs. Cancun is not just a place to relax; it’s where memories are made.
2. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a mosaic of cultural experiences, offering a European adventure that’s hard to beat. Wander through the Gothic Quarter, marvel at Gaudi’s architectural wonders, and indulge in the city’s world-renowned cuisine. Barcelona’s beaches offer a scenic escape, while its bustling squares and markets promise a deep dive into local life. For college students, it’s a chance to broaden their horizons and experience a Spring Break that blends relaxation with cultural enrichment.
Amidst this enriching experience, finding academic help can be crucial to success. If you wonder, “Who can write my term paper cheap?” look for esteemed online writing providers. Their assistance can help alleviate academic pressures, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in the cultural tapestry of Barcelona without the looming stress of upcoming assignments. This way, students can enjoy the best of both worlds: exploring new cultures while keeping their academic responsibilities in check.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is an explosion of cultural vibrancy, known for its dynamic music scene, exquisite cuisine, and historic architecture. Spring Break in the Big Easy means jazz-filled nights, street performers, and a culinary journey through some of America’s best food. The city’s friendly vibe and endless entertainment options make it an ideal spot for students looking to experience a different facet of American culture.
4. Tulum, Mexico
Tulum offers a Spring Break experience that’s both serene and exciting. Known for its breathtaking ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Tulum is a place where history and natural beauty converge. Yoga retreats, eco-friendly accommodations, and pristine beaches provide a tranquil escape, while nearby cenotes and adventure parks offer thrilling experiences. Tulum is perfect for students who seek a balance of relaxation and adventure in a stunningly beautiful setting.
5. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam’s charm lies in its picturesque canals, historic houses, and an open-minded culture that welcomes visitors from all walks of life. It’s a city where art, history, and modernity blend seamlessly. Explore world-class museums, bike along the canal paths, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Amsterdam offers a unique European experience that’s both enriching and exhilarating for college students.
6. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is the ultimate playground for those seeking excitement and entertainment. Beyond its famed casinos and shows, Vegas offers many experiences, from thrilling rides to world-renowned culinary destinations. It’s a city that never sleeps, making it perfect for college students looking to pack every moment of Spring Break with unforgettable experiences.
7. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is a window into Japan’s soul, offering a peaceful retreat amidst cherry blossoms and ancient temples. Spring is particularly magical as the city blooms in shades of pink and white. Experience traditional tea ceremonies, explore serene gardens, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this historic city. Kyoto provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, ideal for students seeking a reflective and beautiful Spring Break.
8. Miami, Florida
Miami blends tropical beauty with urban cool, offering sunny beaches, Art Deco architecture, and a thriving art scene. South Beach buzzes with energy, while Wynwood Walls showcases street art at its finest. Miami’s diverse cuisine and vibrant nightlife promise a Spring Break filled with fun and discovery. It’s a city that caters to every taste, making it a top choice for students from all over.
9. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world, set against a backdrop of stunning landscapes. From bungee jumping to jet boating, it offers adrenaline-pumping activities for the brave at heart. The surrounding vineyards and the remarkable Milford Sound provide a peaceful contrast to the thrill-seeking adventures. Queenstown is an ideal destination for students looking to challenge themselves and experience the great outdoors.
10. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, the heart of country music, offers a Spring Break experience steeped in musical history. Visit the Grand Ole Opry, explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, and dive into the city’s lively music scene. Nashville’s friendly atmosphere and comfort food complete the experience, making it a great destination for students who love music and good vibes.
Summing Up
Spring Break is a time to explore, relax, and make memories. Whether you’re drawn to the beaches of Cancun, the historic streets of Kyoto, or the vibrant nightlife of Miami, each of these destinations offers a unique experience that can make your 2024 Spring Break unforgettable. Remember, the world is vast, and Spring Break is the perfect time to start exploring it.
Summer is simply the perfect season to throw a pool party. What better way is there to beat the heat than to chill in the pool with your loved ones, with delicious food and ice-cold drinks waiting for you nearby?
If it’s your goal to host an epic summer pool party, however, the event should entail more than just jumping in the pool, swimming around for a bit, and then calling it a day. You’ll want to do a little planning to ensure that your pool party is fun and memorable for all guests involved.
Before you put on one of your favorite swimsuits and jump in the pool, here are some things you should do as a host for the kind of pool party people will talk about long after it’s over:
1) Open Your Pool for the Summer
The first step towards hosting the ultimate summer pool party is actually getting the pool ready. At least three weeks before the date, open your pool to ensure that it’s in tip-top condition.
Clean the pool itself, remove any debris, and balance the water’s chemical levels so that it’s 100 percent safe for swimming. If you have no experience opening a pool the right way, consider hiring a professional service to handle any maintenance or repairs that might be needed.
2) Send Out Invitations
With your pool ready for action, it’ll be time to invite your guests. But before you send out the invites, make sure that you’re inviting the right number of people. You’ll want everyone to have enough room to enjoy the water without overcrowding it.
As such, consider the size of your pool and the space you have available when creating your guest list. This way, you’ll be able to get a rough estimate of how many people you can fit into the party area.
After you’ve made the guest list, the next step is to create the invitations. There are two ways to go about this: digital invites or traditional paper invites. If you’re looking for convenience and quick responses, opt for digital invites. But if you’re itching to incorporate some creativity and a personal touch, go ahead and send themed paper invitations.
Whichever you choose, make sure to include all the essential details: the date and time of the party, your address, and any specific instructions like what to bring (e.g., swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, etc.). If your party has a specific theme, such as a tropical barbecue or a retro pool party, mention it in the invitation and suggest attire that fits the theme. This not only makes the event more fun but also gives guests an idea of what to expect and how to prepare. Remember, the more details you provide upfront, the smoother your party will go.
3) Decorate the Party Area
A festive atmosphere will complete the pool party experience, and your choice of a particular theme or color scheme that reflects the vibe you want will make the event even more memorable. Popular themes include tropical paradise, beach bash, or retro summer. Once you have a theme in mind, you can begin decorating accordingly.
Begin with the pool area itself. String up some colorful lights or lanterns around the pool and in nearby trees or bushes. Not only do these add a festive touch, but they also provide necessary lighting as the sun sets. Consider adding a few torches or LED candles for some extra oomph to your ambience.
Next, decorate the surrounding area with themed decorations like beach balls, pool floaties, and tropical flowers. A few strategically placed signs or banners can also enhance the theme. For seating, use bright and colorful cushions or towels on lounge chairs to keep the theme consistent. Don’t forget to set up shaded areas with umbrellas or canopies, and consider adding a few small tables for guests to place their drinks and snacks.
4) Prepare Summer-Themed Drinks, Snacks, and Meals
Food and drinks are central to any successful pool party. Keep things in line with your party’s summer vibe by offering a variety of summer-themed refreshments, snacks, and meals to keep your guests satisfied and enhance the festive atmosphere.
Provide an assortment of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options to cater to all your guests, whether they’ll be drinking or not. You can’t go wrong with classic summer cocktails like lime, strawberry, or margaritas, piña coladas, and minty mojitos. For non-alcoholic options that can be served to kids and guests avoiding alcohol, you can prepare cool iced teas, lemonades, sodas, mocktails, and fruit-infused water. Serve these drinks in fun themed cups or mason jars, and don’t forget to provide plenty of ice.
When it comes to snacks and meals, light and refreshing options are best for a poolside setting. Offer a variety of finger foods and appetizers, like fresh fruit on a platter, veggie bites with dips, and a simple charcuterie board with cheese, crackers, chips, and nuts. Mini sandwiches, sliders, and skewers (both with meat and veggies) will prove convenient and easy to eat.
For the main course, consider a barbecue or a buffet-style setup. Grilled items like burgers, hot dogs, chicken, and veggie kebabs are always crowd-pleasers at pool parties. For a more tropical vibe, you might want to include dishes like coconut shrimp, fish tacos, or a tropical salad with mango and avocado. Finally, for dessert, offer cool treats like popsicles, ice cream sandwiches, and fruit sorbets, all of which are perfect for a hot summer day. If you want to get even more creative, set up a DIY sundae or s’mores station.
5) Give Your Guests Party Favors
Lastly, why not send your guests home with a small token of appreciation? Your party favors don’t have to be extravagant or expensive; thoughtful themed items will leave a lasting impression, no matter how small or humble they are.
Look for practical and fun favors your guests can use during or after the party. Personalized items like custom sunglasses, flip-flops, or beach towels can be both useful and a nice memento of a particularly special event, like a birthday pool party or a poolside anniversary celebration. Small bottles of sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, or mini fans will also be appreciated by guests who intend to spend much of the day out in the sun.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to throwing a pool party that will be the highlight of the season. Plan thoughtfully and with love, and you’ll be able to spearhead an event that everyone would love to remember the summer by.
If you are planning to visit some of the Greek Islands and need to decide which ones to include in your itinerary, this post is for you. Our journey takes you to the most popular islands in Greece, which I’m sure you will enjoy as much as we did.
If this is your first trip to the Greek Islands you should definitely include Mykonos and Santorini in your itinerary. Although not my favorite ones, these are two of the most popular Greek Islands and are surely worth a visit. Crete, on the other hand, is an absolute must and you should make it a point not to miss it.
About This Itinerary
Because our Greek Islands itinerary was three weeks long I will not do a day-by-day breakdown. Instead, I will tell you how many days is worth spending on each island and what you can visited there. I’ll also tell you where to stay, what to pack and what’s the best time to visit.
Greek Islands Itinerary map
One thing I need to mention is that we visited these islands independently, not on an organized trip. We traveled to Greece by plane, then rented a car and moved from island to island by ferry. If you are interested in organized trips for the Islands, there are many tour operators who offer them.
Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands
After visiting Greece many times over the years, we strongly believe that the best time to visit the Greek Islands is the fall. September and October enjoy great weather, with very little rain and temperatures in the mid 70s. The water is still warm enough for swimming and the crowds are much smaller. The prices are also lower, which is a big plus.
Fall time in the Greek Islands
However, the months of June, July and August are considered the peak season for the Greek Islands, as most people take their vacations in summer. Many Europeans travel to Greece in summer, despite the high temperatures which are hard to bear, raising sometimes above 100ºF (37-39ºC).
Spring is also considered a good time for visiting the islands. Temperatures are very pleasant for walking and sunbathing, but the water doesn’t warm up for swimming until mid June.
What to Pack for Your Greek Islands Itinerary
Packing for Greece is generally easy as you won’t need any fancy attire or special clothing, like when you pack for Patagonia for instance. But if you travel to Greece in the fall, I recommend packing both summer and autumn clothes, as it may get a little cooler at night at this time of year. So here are some items that shouldn’t be missing from your luggage:
How to dress in the Greek Islands
Swimsuits, sandals, a hat and your snorkeling gear. The water is very warm and you’ll be definitely swimming every day. Lightweight clothes. Greece is just the right place for wearing cotton and linen clothes. If you decide to visit the Greek islands in the fall, make sure to pack a light jacket or even a raincoat. Although temperatures will be in the upper 70s (24-25ºC) during the day, it may get a little cooler in the evening.
How to Travel Between the Islands
While not the only option, the best way to explore the Greek Islands is by car. If you have a car you’ll be able to access secluded beaches, villages, and scenic viewpoints that might be difficult to reach with public transport. That’s especially true for larger islands, like Crete.
For this itinerary, we rented a car in Mykonos then traveled from island to island by ferry. Most ferries allow cars to be brought onboard, which enables you to travel between different islands with your vehicle. Ferries are the fastest and most convenient way to travel between the islands.
The ferry boat is the most convenient way to travel between the Greek islands
However, ferries aren’t cheap in Greece. Sometimes they are even more expensive than airfare tickets. That’s especially true for the Aegean Sea ferries which incur higher sea transportation costs than those in the Ionian Sea. Traveling by plane is more time consuming, so I believe it’s worth paying a little extra for the ferry.
If you come from overseas, you’ll most likely land in Athens which is a big hub for international flights. From Athens we flew to Mykonos where we rented a car and then traveled from island to island by ferry.
Flying is the fastest option to reach Mykonos. It’s a short 45 minute flight from Athens. There is also the option of renting a car in Athens and going to Mykonos by ferry, but that’s a way longer and more complicated route which we do not recommend for this Greek Islands itinerary.
Planning your arrival time in Athens is very important because it has to be coordinate with the departure flight to Mykonos. However, we didn’t find this very difficult as Aegean Airlines has many connections between these two destinations. And you don’t even need to change the terminal.
If you never visited Athens before, you may choose to extend your Greek Islands itinerary by spending a few days in Athens. And if you have more time to spare, there are many interesting day trips from Athens that you can take, one of which is a day trip to Delphi, a very interesting archeological site.
Day 2 – 4: Mykonos
We spent 3 days in Mykonos and felt this was just about the right amount of time for this island.
Beautiful beach in Mykonos
Mykonos is a very small, barren island with a total area of around 85.5 square kilometers (33 square miles). The biggest attraction on the island is Mykonos Town, a charming maze of narrow alleys with blue-white houses, colorful bougainvilleas, and a great array of small luxury boutiques and fancy restaurants.
Mykonos Town
The small neighborhood of Little Venice and the iconic windmills are definitely must-see spots for picturesque views, especially at sunset. Also, the seaside walkway that starts at the Old Port and continues all the way to the windmills is indeed mesmerizing and definitely worth experiencing.
Where to Stay in Mykonos
Despite being a small island, Mykonos has a big concentration of luxury hotels and resorts. Since most of the action takes place around Mykonos Town, travelers prefer to stay in this area. So the decision you’ll have to make is whether to stay in Mykonos Town, where you’ll have easy access to most nightlife, shopping, and restaurants, or book a hotel a little farther away and enjoy more peace a quiet. We opted for the latter option and did not regret it.
St. John Hotel and Resort in Mykonos
We stayed at Saint John Hotel Villas & Spa, a beautiful resort located about 10-15 minutes away from Mykonos Town. This hotel was one of the best deals you could make on this island, considering the luxurious facilities they have, the spectacular grounds and the opulent breakfast they offered. They also have free parking, which on this small island is a big plus.
Ferry from Mykonos to Santorini
The best connection between Mykonos and Santorini is the high speed ferry Worldchampion Jet, departing at 9:50 am from Mikonos and arriving at 11:50 am in Santorini.
Day 5: Delos
After visiting Mykonos we took a day trip to the small island of Delos, which is a very significant archeological site in Greece. The island which is considered the sacred birthplace of Gods Apollo and Artemis, is a very important cultural destination with extensive ancient ruins, temples and mosaics. If you are in Mykonos, make sure you don’t miss this important UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Archeological site in Delos
Most people visit Delos on a day trip from Mykonos. To get to Delos you can take the ferry boat from the old port in Mykonos Town. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes. On the island you can book a guided tour, or you can visit the archeological site independently.
Day 6 – 11: Santorini
We spent days 6 to 11 of our Greek Islands itinerary in Santorini. But in retrospect we believe four full days on this island was too much. Two, or at the most three days would have been more than enough.
Santorini is a volcanic island with a crescent-shaped caldera, half of which is submerged in water. It was created by one of the largest known eruptions around 3,600 years ago. The explosion was so powerful that it wrecked Santorini’s ancient city of Akrotiri and completely destroyed the Minoan civilization, which had settled on the island at the time.
Images from Santorini
The biggest attraction in Santorini is the caldera and the two towns of Oia and Fira perched on its cliffside. Both these towns are very romantic, with luxurious villas and resorts that enjoy breathtaking views.
Santorini, view of the caldera
Pictures and drone footages from Santorini would do some justice to the beauty of the caldera. But when you see it in person you understand why Santorini is on almost every Greek Islands itinerary.
Where to Stay in Santorini
There are many places where you can stay on this island, but I believe choosing a hotel somewhere between Fira and Oia would be the most convenient location. There are many accommodations in the towns of Fira or Oia, because both cities offer stunning views of the caldera and easy access to amenities and attractions.
Santorini hotels
As expected, both these locations are pricier than other parts of the island, but they are also spectacular.
We stayed at Azanti Suites which are located right in the middle of the caldera, about 15 minutes drive to Fira. We had free self parking and free breakfast served in the room. The suites face the caldera and have beautiful terraces with a private pool or jacuzzi.
Ferry from Santorini to Crete
There is only one ferry that connects Santorini to Crete: PowerJet, that departs Santorini at 16:05 and arrives in Heraklion at 17:55. From Heraklion we drove to Agios Nikolaos, which was our base for exploring the eastern side of Crete.
Day 12-20: Crete
Crete is huge! It’s the largest island in Greece and also the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It measures about 3,260 square miles (8,450 square kilometers) and is located 62 miles south of the Peloponnese.
Beautiful beach in Crete
Crete is also one of the most varied and beautiful islands that we have ever visited. It has gorgeous beaches, tall mountains, hundreds of canyons and gorges, interesting archeological sites, historic towns and coastal resorts.
Canyon in Crete
Because it’s the biggest Greek island, we decided to divide our itinerary into two parts: we spent the first five days in the eastern part of the island the other five on the western side. This way we didn’t have to drive for more than 1.5-2 hours to reach our points of interest.
How Much Time to Spend in Crete
Because it’s so big and diverse, Crete deserves minimum a week to be able to get a glimpse of some of its marvels. However, we spent 10 days on this island and felt this was not enough. Distances between the different points of interest are huge, so plan at least 7-8 days.
What You Can Do on the East Side Crete
Crete is jam-packed with history – especially around the Bronze Age ‘Minoan civilization’ which originated in Crete and is regarded by many as the oldest in Europe. So you can wander around the Minoan Palace of Zakros, visit the ruins of Knosos Palace, or the remains of the Venetian castle on Spinalonga Island..
Another big point of interest on the east side of Crete is Heraklion, a port city and the island’s capital. Here you’ll find interesting museums, beautiful cathedrals, Knosos Palace and Roca a Mare Fortress.
Knosos Palace
On this side of the island you’ll have many wonderful beaches like Glaros, Vathi, Itanos, or China. Sadly the driving distances between them are big, so depending on how much time you have at hand you’ll have to choose which ones to visit.
If you like hiking, Crete is home to a great array of beautiful canyons and landscapes of stunning scenery. You can hike the Martsallo Gorge, take a journey across the Lasithi Plateau to explore the Cave of Zeus, or wander around the many small fishing villages around this side of the island, like Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, or Plaka.
What to Do on the Western Side of Crete
The western side of Crete is absolutely stunning. While the eastern side is flatter and less visually striking, the western side has a more wild and dramatic appeal, with a rugged coastline, lush green landscapes, and imposing mountains.
Here you’ll find the renowned white sand beaches like Elafonisi, Balos, or Kedrodassos Beach. Also on this side you have the spectacular White Mountains and the famous Samaria Gorge, as well as many charming coastal towns like Chania, Rethymno, or Loutro.
Rethymno town
Where to Stay on the Eastern Side in Crete
Depending on how much time you have for this island, I recommend staying in two or three places. Distances are big here, so the idea is to spend less time driving and more time having fun.
We spent the first five days of our Crete itinerary on the eastern side of Crete, in Agios Nikolaos. This is a very picturesque coastal town with plenty of accommodations for all budgets. We rented an apartment at the Pleiades Luxurious Villas, a beautiful resort that features villas with private pools. We didn’t need all this space, but prices were very affordable in October, so we splurged.
Where to Stay on the Western Side in Crete
The best place to stay on the western side is in Chania, which in my opinion is the most beautiful town in Crete. However, parking as well as getting in and out of this town is rather difficult. If you don’t want to struggle with that, I suggest either looking for a hotel with parking (which are not very many), or staying somewhere else along the coast.
The Old Lighthouse of Chania
We stayed at Belmondo Hotel & Suites which is located on the edge of the water, right across from the Old Lighthouse. But we also discovered a nice resort about 15 minutes drive from Chania, called Zorba’s Beach Village Hotel. This would also be a good place to stay when exploring this part of Crete.
Day 21: Return to Athens
This was our final day of our Greek Islands itinerary. Since it’s a very long trip by ferry (8-13 hours), we chose to fly back to Athens from Chania. There is also the option of flying to Athens from Heraklion, if you are on the eastern part of Crete.
Traveling by plane to Athens
Aegean Airlines has numerous flights between Crete and Athens, but it’s better to take an earlier flight. Also, if your final destinations is in the US, I recommend spending one night in Athens to make sure you won’t miss your final flight in case of delays or cancellations.
A Final Word
This sums up our three-week Greek Islands itinerary. I hope this post gives you an idea of what to expect when visiting this part of Greece.
We absolutely loved these islands, especially Crete, and believe they make a great destination for any type of vacation. Whether you are young or old, a big family with small children or just a couple, be assured that the Greek Islands will not disappoint you.
Travelling solo can be an empowering experience, offering freedom and flexibility unmatched by group trips. However, navigating crowded airports, enduring long queues, and managing tight schedules can sometimes make solo journeys more overwhelming than liberating. That’s where red-eye flights come in—a travel option that transforms these challenges into opportunities for a smoother, more focused journey.
Flying overnight may not be everyone’s first choice, but it holds particular appeal for solo travellers seeking convenience and efficiency. With fewer crowds, quieter terminals, and unique time-saving advantages, red-eye flights cater to the independence and adaptability that solo adventurers often value most.
Wondering which travel time is best for you? This article explores why choosing a red-eye flight could be the smartest move for your next solo trip, offering practical insights to make your journey as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Quieter Airports and Streamlined Security
One of the most immediate benefits of flying red-eye is the serenity of a nearly empty airport. With most travellers opting for daytime flights, late-night departures mean fewer people and a less chaotic atmosphere. For solo travellers, this translates to easier navigation, quicker check-ins, and shorter queues at security checkpoints. Gone are the moments of jostling through packed terminals or waiting endlessly in line—everything moves faster in the airport during the wee hours.
For those arriving or departing through busy hubs like Singapore, this quieter experience can be a game-changer. After landing, you can avoid the hassle of bustling daytime crowds by planning ahead and booking hotels near Singapore airport. Not only does this offer a convenient place to rest, but it also ensures a seamless transition from your flight to the next phase of your journey. These minor adjustments can make solo travel significantly more manageable and stress-free.
Flexibility in Seating Choices
Flying solo gives you an undeniable advantage when it comes to securing the perfect seat. Red-eye flights, with their reduced passenger numbers, take this benefit even further by offering more options for that coveted spot. Without the pressure of competing with large groups or families, you’re more likely to find a seat that fits your preferences—whether it’s for extra legroom, a quick exit, or a peaceful corner to settle in for the journey.
Moreover, the lighter passenger load often means empty seats nearby, giving you extra space to stretch out and relax. For solo travellers, this added comfort can make a significant difference, especially on longer journeys. Being able to select your ideal seat with minimal hassle enhances the overall experience, making a red-eye flight an even more appealing choice for those venturing alone.
Time to Focus and Recharge
Red-eye flights offer something rarely found during the day—uninterrupted quiet. This unique window of calm can be a golden opportunity for solo travellers to focus on small personal goals or simply recharge. Whether it’s catching up on reading, journalling your travel experiences, or revising your itinerary, the stillness of an overnight flight provides the ideal environment for reflection and productivity.
Beyond personal projects, this quiet time also allows you to unwind after a hectic day of travel preparations. Without the distractions of a bustling cabin or frequent announcements, you can settle into your own world, free from interruptions. Solo travellers often cherish this solitude, using it to prepare mentally and emotionally for the adventures that lie ahead. By the time you land, you’ll feel more centred and ready to make the most of your destination.
Cost Savings
Travelling solo often means managing every expense carefully, and red-eye flights can be a great way to stretch your travel funds. Due to lower demand, these flights cost less than their daytime counterparts, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious adventurers. The money saved on airfare can then be redirected to other travel priorities, such as unique experiences, upgraded accommodations, or even an extended itinerary.
Aside from ticket prices, red-eye flights also help reduce costs in other ways. Since you’re flying overnight, you can save on a night’s accommodation by sleeping on the plane. For solo travellers, who often juggle multiple expenses on their own, these savings can add up quickly. Ultimately, choosing a red-eye flight is not only a practical decision but also a strategic one, as it allows you to enjoy more of what your destination has to offer without compromising your budget.
Efficient Use of Travel Time
For solo travellers, time is one of the most valuable resources and going on a red-eye flight allows you to make the most of it. As overnight travel lets you combine transit with rest, you can turn what could be downtime into a productive part of your journey. By the time the plane touches down, you’re ready to jump into your itinerary without wasting precious daylight hours.
This efficiency is particularly appealing for those with tight schedules or ambitious itineraries. Imagine landing early in the morning, grabbing breakfast at a local café, and starting your adventure before the city even wakes up. For business travellers, it means heading directly to meetings without sacrificing a day to transit. Red-eye flights seamlessly integrate travel into your schedule, ensuring you maximise every moment of your solo journey.
Red-eye flights may not be for everyone. For solo travellers, however, they offer distinct advantages that are hard to ignore. From efficient use of time to significant savings, these flights align perfectly with the needs of independent adventurers. So, consider taking to the skies at night on your next solo trip, as it might just turn out to be the wiser, more rewarding option for your journey.
Hoping to plan out your Australia trip cost? Here is a detailed guide for what you might spend Down Under!
Australia is a magnificent country full of natural beauty and man-made wonders.
Visitors can scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef, surf in the Gold Coast, and road trip through Outback destinations like Alice Springs or Uluru.
You can also marvel at the Sydney Opera House, explore Melbourne, and visit world class beaches outside Perth.
Australia offers vibrant cities, charming culture, unique wildlife, and natural wonders. But what does a trip to Australia cost?
This amazing country is not the cheapest in the world, but it is still worth visiting. You just have to plan your trip well and think about your budget ahead of time.
You could absolutely spend tons of money in Australia if you’re lax with your budget. Dine at fancy restaurants, take taxis everywhere, and stay in luxury hotels. OR, lower your Australia cost with some budget travel tips like staying in hostels, camping, cooking your own food, or finding cheap tours.
We’re going to break down the typical costs for a trip to Australia. Though it’s easy to make Australia an expensive trip, it’s also very doable on a tight budget.
In this guide to Australia travel cost, we’ll cover these main categories: flights, transport, accommodation, food, and activities. We’ll also mention other expenses that you might find, such as visas and travel insurance.
For the budget travelers out there, we’ll also cover any budget travel tips that can help lower your Australia cost. With a bit of discipline and mindful spending, you can have the trip of a lifetime without blowing all of your savings.
Take this advice and cater it to your own travel style and financial situation. Every traveler is different, so this is just meant to help you organize your own trip!
Get ready for the Australia trip of a lifetime!
Australia travel cost overview
Here is what some typical costs may look like for your Australia trip. We won’t include flights in this estimate, as flights will vary greatly depending on where you are departing from.
Average prices may vary based on season as well. If you visit in the off season, you can generally score cheaper prices on accommodation and activities.
Your travel expenses will also depend on your travel style. We’ll list some average prices for the following categories based on budget, mid-range, and luxury.
Keep in mind, there are just estimates, and actual expenses will hugely vary person to person.
Transportation
Budget – $20 per day
Mid-Range – $30 – $50 per day
Luxury – $60 – $100 per day
Accommodation
Budget – $20 – $70 per night
Mid-Range – $100 – $200 per night
Luxury – $300+ per night
Food
Budget – $20 – $40 per day
Mid-Range – $50 – $70 per day
Luxury – $80 – $150 per day (or more)
Activities
Budget – $50 – $200 per week
Mid-Range – $250 – $400 per week
Luxury – $500 – $1,000 per week
Flights to Australia
Depending on where in the world you live, flights to Australia may be one of your trip’s biggest expenses. Australia is quite an isolated continent, so most flights to reach the country are long-haul (unless you’re coming from somewhere close like New Zealand).
If you’re flying to Australia from somewhere far, like Europe or the Americas, you can easily spend $1,000 or more on a one-way flight.
But to visit Australia, you’ll just have to bite the bullet and book a flight.
Many people who travel to Australia tend to stay for a while, simply because it is so far away from most of the world. A three to four week trip is common, though you could easily spend years in Australia and still not see everything!
But for those who are determined to book that trip to Australia, the flight prices are always worth it. And saving money on your Australia flight is easier than you think!
Tips to save money on your flight to Australia
If you’re hoping to lower your Australia cost, you might be able to score a cheap flight with these travel tips.
Fly off season
Every country has its peak season and its off season. Australia is a large country, so the peak season varies depending on where you go.
For example, Sydney’s peak season is summer (December, January, February) and the off season is winter (June, July, August).
But somewhere hot and tropical, like Cairns, has winter as its peak season. Summer is the off season because it gets very hot and humid, but you can get some really cheap flights to the tropics at this time of year.
So depending on where you want to go, consider a visit in the off season! Average prices for flights in off season are often significantly cheaper than peak season.
You can also visit in shoulder season for that sweet spot of nice weather combined with cheaper prices.
Be flexible with your itinerary
Having flexibility with your trip to Australia means you can plan your itinerary around the cheapest flights.
Do some browsing online to see the cheapest flights to Australia from your home country.
Most travellers fly into Sydney, but you can also find cheap international flights into Brisbane, Perth, or Melbourne.
Maybe it’s costly for you to fly to Sydney in New South Wales, but maybe it’s surprisingly cheap to fly to Perth in Western Australia.
If you haven’t planned out an itinerary yet, perhaps you can organise your trip based on where the cheapest flights are! There is stunning beauty all over the country, so you can easily plan an epic adventure no matter where you arrive.
Get creative with layovers
Because Australia is so far from much of the world, it’s pretty rare to find a cheap AND direct flight.
Generally, the more layovers you have, the cheaper the flight price is. If you don’t mind taking some slightly more inconvenient layovers on the way to Australia, you may be able to get a much cheaper overall price.
You could also combine Australia with a trip to elsewhere nearby, such as New Zealand, Fiji, or Southeast Asia.
Though you may spend more money if you add on another country, you’ll get much more value out of your trip. Something to consider!
Most travelers start their Australia trip in Sydney.
Transportation costs within Australia
Once you arrive in Australia, you’ll need to get around the country. There are lots of great ways to get around Australia, so you can choose the ones that best suit your time frame and budget.
Those who want to save money can combine the cheapest forms of transport, such as walking and public buses for small distances in a city center, and coach buses or domestic flights for long distances.
A mid-range travel style might see a car or campervan rental paired with some domestic flights, taxis, or public transport.
Luxury travel will likely include just the most convenient methods of transport such as car rentals, taxis, and domestic flights to get around.
Domestic flights
Australia is absolutely massive. So if your trip to Australia includes lots of destinations, domestic flights can be very helpful.
For example, driving from Sydney to Perth will take you at least 3 days if you drive all day long with no stops. But flying there will only take 5 hours.
Domestic flights can be really cheap as well! Especially if you fly off-season and use budget airlines such as Jetstar, you can find one-way flights within Australia for around $100 or less one way.
This is a great way to save time on traveling overland, which can sometimes be a bigger journey than you’d expect in Australia.
Coach bus
Those who prefer to travel by land can get coach buses around Australia.
Greyhound is one of the most popular long-haul bus companies that visits cities and towns all over the country.
Just remember that driving distances can be very long in Australia! Utilise overnight buses where possible to optimise your time.
For example, a bus from Sydney to Melbourne is around 12 hours of driving. A bus from Sydney to Byron Bay is 13 hours of driving. Bus prices vary as well, so make sure you research the route you want to take.
If the bus and a flight are similar prices, you may prefer to take a flight to save time. But if you’re not in a rush and you find some cheap tickets, buses are a great way to get around Australia.
You can also get great deals on bus passes that include multiple journeys. For example, a Greyhound bus pass for the East Coast includes unlimited travel between Sydney and Cairns and prices start at around $330.
Car or campervan rental
One of the absolute best ways to explore on your trip to Australia is a road trip!
Flights can save you lots of travel time and help you pack in lots of destinations into a 1 or 2 week trip. But for those with a bit more time and flexibility, consider a road trip in a car or campervan.
Road trips allow you to see more of Australia, appreciating the natural beauty and small towns in between the tourist hotspots.
Car rental prices vary depending on your time frame, vehicle type, and location. But average costs can be anywhere from $50 – $100 per day.
A fun alternative to renting a regular car is hiring a campervan. Australia is absolutely packed with epic campsites, and a campervan lets you have a more flexible road trip because you can camp along the route.
Campervans are usually between $100 – $500 per day, depending on the quality and inclusions. But the price tag is often worth it. You can save money on accommodation and food by doing your road trip in a van that includes a bed and kitchen!
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
Public transportation within cities
Most Australian cities and larger towns have decent public transportation systems. Trains, trams, metros, and public buses are common in a city center, and they are a cheap and reliable way to get around a given area.
Most public transportation costs have reasonable rates that are no more than a couple of dollars per journey. Some longer rides and airport transfers may be more expensive at $15 – $10.
Though you can also try to walk as much as possible if saving money is a priority.
Most larger cities in Australia are safe, with lots of attractions within walking distance. Walk when you can, and take a local bus or train for larger distances in a city center.
Public transport is of course, slightly more hassle than taxis or Ubers. But it’s much cheaper!
Taxis and rideshare apps
If you have a bigger budget for your Australia trip, you can catch taxis and rideshare apps around most areas in Australia.
In popular cities like Sydney, Gold Coast, or Melbourne, taxis and rideshare apps will likely cost more money than in smaller towns. But the perk of being in a city center is that public transport will almost always be available when you need it.
If you’re in a very small, rural town, public transport might be more rare. In that case, local taxis may be your only option, but they likely won’t be too expensive.
It goes without saying that if saving money is your priority, try to stick to walking and public transport as opposed to taxis and rideshares.
Getting around Australia is half the fun!
Accommodation costs in Australia
Accommodation is often a pretty big expense while traveling anywhere in the world. A trip to Australia is no different!
There are lots of different places to stay on your trip, from budget backpacker hostels to wilderness campgrounds to fancy hotels and basic motels.
In popular tourist destinations, such as the East Coast, you’ll have a greater variety of accommodations to choose from. In remote, small towns, there may only be a handful of local hotels so you’ll have less choice.
But here is an overview of the most common accommodation types and what they typically cost in Australia.
Hostels
Hostels are a great option for budget travelers, though hostels in Australia are definitely on the expensive side.
Dorm rooms are generally between $20 – $70 per night, with the higher costs in popular cities like Sydney or Melbourne.
Prices may also be more expensive during peak season (summer and around holidays).
You can also get private rooms in hostels for roughly $100 per night. This may be slightly cheaper than hotel rooms! But a dorm bed is always the best way to save money in Australia.
Camping
Australia is one of the best countries in the world for camping! Picture well-maintained campgrounds surrounded by lush forest or stunning beaches.
Some have excellent amenities like kitchens, BBQ, and hot showers. These well-equipped campgrounds often cost money, but not much compared to a hotel.
Nicer campgrounds in Australia cost around $10-40 per night, depending on the time of year, day of week, and quality of the campground.
You can also find basic campgrounds with little to no facilities. Many of these are either free or very cheap at just $5-10 per night.
The only downside to camping as a traveler in Australia is that you also need gear! If you can hire a campervan that includes all the gear, that’s a convenient way to do it.
You can also buy cheap secondhand camping gear on GumTree or Facebook marketplace.
Camping in Australia is a magical experience.
Hotels and motels
If you prefer private rooms in classic hotels or motels, these are common around Australia as well.
Hostels are not very common in the less touristy regional towns as well, so sometimes hotel rooms are the only option.
But all over Australia you should have no problem finding mid-range hotels that are nice but won’t break the bank.
Private rooms in mid-range hotels and motels often cost between $100 and $200 per night, with costs creeping up to $300 per night in expensive areas like Noosa, Gold Coast, or Byron Bay.
Airbnbs
Airbnbs are super popular around Australia! If you’re visiting small towns on your trip to Australia, hostels and hotels may be less common. But you can often find Airbnbs owned by locals, so these are nice and reliable.
They are generally on the more expensive side, especially when you find the rentals that include entire homes or apartments.
But if you’re visiting Australia with a group, a large Airbnb is ideal. Airbnbs can generally cost between $250 and $500 per night, depending on the quality and size of the place.
Of course, luxury hotels are also an option when you visit Australia! Big cities and popular tourist hotspots will have more options in terms of elegance and luxury.
A room in a fancy hotel in Australia might start at around $300 per night, with prices soaring higher for the five-star accommodations.
Food costs in Australia
Food costs on your trip to Australia will mirror most destinations around the world. Eating out is expensive and cooking your own food saves you money. This is true almost everywhere!
But it’s especially important in Australia to be mindful of your spending when it comes to food. Eating and drinking in bars and restaurants is very costly in Australia!
Part of a holiday should definitely involve trying some delicious food as it’s an important part of the local culture. But for the budget travelers out there, cooking some of your own meals is one of the top methods for saving money.
Average food costs in Australia
Before we dive into the tips for eating according to your budget, let’s go over some basic food costs.
These prices are just an estimate! The same dish may be cheaper at a small, local place or more expensive at a fancy place in a city. But these basic costs should be pretty consistent around Australia.
Dining out / takeaway
Coffee – $5
Bacon and egg roll – $10
Egg breakfast with sourdough and avocado – $18
Local beer – $9
Craft beer – $11
Glass of wine – $10-15
Chicken sandwich – $15-20
Seafood lunch – $30-40
Salad – $15-20 ($5 to add protein)
Pasta dish – $20-30
Steak dinner – $30-50
Vegetarian dinner – $25-30
Desserts – $10
Groceries
1kg of oats – $3-5
Box of 6 apples – $5
2kg bag of potatoes – $4-5
Bag of frozen fruit $6-10
Can of beans – $1
12 pack of eggs – $8
1kg of rice – $4-5
Box of pasta – $3-6
Whole chicken – $10
Grass fed steak – $10
Can of tuna – $2-4
1kg of coffee beans – $15-25
Bottle of wine – $10-30
6 pack of beer – $20-40
Budget
Based on the average prices above, your Australia cost will likely be lower if you try to buy food from grocery stores and cook your own meals!
Try to find an accommodation that has kitchen facilities, or hire a campervan with cooking facilities. Even if you just make one meal a day at home, this will save you so much money throughout the course of your trip.
The hardcore budget travelers can even try to cook the majority of their meals. Then when you do decide to treat yourself to a meal out, it will feel that much more special!
If you mostly spend money on groceries, with the odd meal out here and there, you might spend around $20 – $40 per day on food in Australia.
Cafe culture is huge in Australia.
Mid-Range
A mid-range traveller in Australia might want to cook some meals and dine out for some meals. A healthy mixture of the two gives you some indulgence but also helps you save money.
An average breakfast at a cafe in Australia can be around $25 per person, with a meal and a coffee.
Lunch can also be about the same, especially if you skip the drink or look for lunchtime specials. Find the best deals by researching local lunch specials, as they are quite common around Australia!
Dinner out is usually the most expensive, especially if there is a cocktail involved (which can be $20 or more in Australia).
If you want a nice balance of dining out without spending a lot, consider cooking your own dinners and eating out for breakfast or lunch as these are the cheaper meals.
Luxury
With a heftier budget, your travel style can include much more cafe and restaurant meals in Australia.
If you’re looking for a luxury food experience, you can even head to some of the more upscale, expensive restaurants. Popular in the big cities, there are many restaurants in Australia run by world-famous chefs where you can indulge in transformative food experiences.
The price tags in these places will well exceed the averages I’ve listed above. But if you have the budget for it, you can really dive into the premium food scene Down Under.
Activities in Australia
Tours and activities are essential to having a fulfilling Australia experience.
Most day tours in Australia cost around $100 – $300, depending on the tour.
Overnight tours greatly vary in cost, depending on how long the tour is and what level of luxury you get.
For example, camping overnight tours on K’gari (Fraser Island) are more affordable because you’re staying in nature without many facilities. But similar tours with resort accommodation will cost more.
On the other hand, some Whitsunday sailing tours include a stay in a luxury private catamaran cabin, and some fancy train tours across Australia include luxury cabins as well. So these tours will cost much more.
Budget Tours
If you want to keep your costs low in Australia, stick to the budget tours and day trips. Then fill most of your days with free activities like hiking, beach-hopping, and sightseeing.
But do pay attention to the cost per day for an overnight tour! Some backpacker-friendly overnight trips are actually great value for money, even if they are 2 or 3 days.
On overnight tours, your accommodation and food is usually covered in the tour price. So an overnight tour can still be affordable, especially for nature-focused tours like K’gari (Fraser Island) or camping near Uluru.
But in general, your trip will be a lot cheaper if you emphasize the free activities that Australia offers.
Mid Range
For mid-range travellers, definitely treat yourself to some amazing Australian tours. Maybe mix in some day trips, affordable overnight trips, and more luxury tours for a bit of variety.
And do your research so you can see which attractions are better with or without a tour. For example, the Great Barrier Reef is definitely better with the marine life experts on a guided tour, whereas national parks like the Blue Mountains can be easily visited without a tour.
Also take note of entrance fees for things like museums, wildlife centres, and art galleries. Pick and choose which attractions will bring you the most joy, and be selective about what you pay for to maximise your budget.
Luxury
For those who don’t mind higher costs, you can really live life to the fullest in Australia.
Book as many guided tours and experiences as you want! You can even treat yourself to private tours and private charters for trips out to sea.
There are so many cool experiences to have in Australia.
Additional costs for a trip to Australia
Most visitors can plan their travel budget for the transport, accommodation, food, and activities. But many forget about the additional expenses!
Here are some other things to include in your Australia travel budget.
Visa
Everyone visiting Australia needs a visa! Those visiting on a holiday will need a Visitor Visa, and those planning to stay longer and work can do a Working Holiday Visa.
Regardless of your intentions in Australia, you will need a visa.
A Visitor Visa is pretty cheap at around $195. Working Holiday Visas cost more at around $650, but they allow you to stay for up to a year and work to fund your trip.
It’s always a good idea to get travel insurance for a trip abroad. You never know when you might need emergency medical treatment or have some sort of travel fiasco, so it’s worth buying travel insurance to know you’re covered.
Travel insurance costs vary depending on the length of your trip to Australia, your nationality, and which provider you choose. Do a bit of shopping around to find the best plan for you!
Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.
Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads.
Souvenirs
Souvenirs are not an essential purchase on a trip to Australia. But it’s a good idea to set aside a little cash just in case you see something that sparks your attention.
A beautiful, hand-crafted souvenir that reflects the local culture is a wonderful way to remember a trip abroad.
But try to avoid buying things just for the sake of it! You don’t want random trinkets that will just collect dust, as it’s a waste of money.
Be mindful with your spending and try to only buy meaningful souvenirs that you will actually use and cherish.
Australia Cost Wrap Up
Given all the info we just covered, it’s easy to see that Australia can easily be affordable or expensive depending on your travel style.
Most people would agree that the best way to travel is by following your intuition and being mindful. Combine a few budget travel tips with some once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
If you are going to spend your money, spend it on something that really adds value to your trip.
Whether it be a fancy hotel in a city you’ve always wanted to visit, a five-star restaurant that showcases your favorite cuisine, or a multiday tour that includes all the highlights of a given area, you can enhance your trip to Australia through buying things that mean something to you.
But to avoid any guilt or financial stress, balance that out with some frugality. Cook some meals at your accommodation, spend a few nights at a cheap hostel, or try camping in the wilderness. Skip the cocktails one night or walk around instead of taking taxis.
Be flexible with your trip and spend with intention. This will help you plan a trip to Australia that is unforgettable, but also affordable!
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