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Australia is a dream destination for Nepali expats

Tips for Budget Travel to Australia from Nepal

17 Jan 2025


Australia is a dream destination for Nepali expats willing to earn and send money from Australia to Nepal and hope to support their families back home. Australia offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cities. However, as one of the world's most expensive countries, budget-conscious travelers from Nepal may wonder how to make the trip without breaking the bank. This guide will help you enjoy the best of Australia without overspending.

Plan Your Travel Dates and Book Smartly

Australia's seasons are opposite to those in Nepal, with summer from December to February and winter from June to August. Off-peak seasons, like late autumn (April-May) and early spring (September-October), are generally cheaper for flights and accommodations. Flexibility with dates and booking flights early can help you score better deals. Tools like Skyscanner, KAYAK, and Momondo are excellent for comparing flight prices and finding budget options​​.

Australia’s vast landscapes offer diverse experiences, from tropical getaways in the north to ski adventures in the south during winter. Popular tourist destinations like Sydney and Melbourne may have higher costs during peak seasons, so consider exploring lesser-known gems for a unique experience. Backpacking and staying in hostels can be a cost-effective way to travel and meet fellow adventurers. Finally, consider using local transport like buses and trains to save on travel costs while enjoying the scenic routes.

Finding Affordable Flights

Consider budget airlines and layovers to reduce costs. Subscribe to fare alert services and look for promotional deals to save money. As an expat, saving as much money as possible for a money transfer from Australia to Nepal is essential. Flights can become very expensive if not booked in advance. 

Explore Free and Low-Cost Attractions

Australia has a wealth of free attractions:

Natural Attractions

Enjoy Australia's beaches, national parks, and coastal trails. Bondi Beach in Sydney, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the Great Ocean Road are iconic and free to visit.

Cultural Sites

Many museums and galleries offer free entry or reduced fees on certain days. The National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne and the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney are must-visits for art lovers.

Wildlife Watching

Skip expensive wildlife parks and look for native animals in their natural habitats. If you visit the right spots, you can see kangaroos, koalas, and even penguins in the wild.

Save on Food and Dining

Eating out frequently can be pricey in Australia. Consider these tips to save on food:

Cook Your Meals

Many budget accommodations provide kitchen facilities. Stock up on essentials at grocery stores like Woolworths or Coles and prepare your meals. Bringing along basic cooking equipment like a travel-sized pressure cooker from Nepal can be handy.

Take Advantage of Street Food

Australia has a growing street food culture with affordable options, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne. Popular markets like the Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne offer a variety of delicious and inexpensive food​.

 

As an expat, it's essential to be mindful of your spending. By cooking your meals and saving money, you can build an emergency fund or send money online to Nepal from Australia to support your loved ones. 

Stay Connected for Less

Staying connected in Australia doesn't have to be expensive. Upon arrival, consider purchasing a local SIM card with a prepaid plan, which is often cheaper than international roaming. Major providers like Optus and Telstra offer affordable data packages for tourists. Alternatively, free Wi-Fi is available at airports, libraries, cafes, and certain public areas across Australia, helping you stay connected without extra costs.

Use Public Transport

As an expat, you may need to realize that the need for commuting is just as essential as eating. Therefore, relying on public transport is one of the best ways to travel and save money. Public transportation in Australia is efficient and covers most tourist attractions. Cities offer daily or weekly passes that provide unlimited travel on buses, trams, and trains. If you're traveling with a group, consider using budget bus services like Greyhound or renting a car for longer distances. Opting for public transit over taxis or rideshares can lead to substantial savings​.

Walking and Cycling

Exploring cities on foot or renting a bicycle can also help you save money and experience Australia up close. Many towns have well-maintained cycling paths and walking trails, particularly along the coast.

Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Australia offers a wide range of accommodation options. Hostels, Airbnb rentals, and budget hotels are widely available, particularly in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. 

YHA hostels are a good option for affordable and safe lodging. Another cost-effective option is Couchsurfing, which allows you to stay with locals for free, adding a unique cultural experience to your journey.

Staying Outside City Centers

When looking for accommodation, consider options outside city centers. Suburban areas often offer lower rates and are well-connected by public transportation, providing easy access to major attractions. However, it's important to factor in the cost of commuting to and from your study or work location. Spending more on commuting while saving on accommodation could make it challenging to budget for your other needs. It could also hinder your ability to save money, which you could then send to your loved ones through an online money transfer from Australia to Nepal.

Manage Visa and Other Travel Essentials

Nepalese travelers need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa to enter Australia for tourism purposes. Processing these visas online is straightforward, and fees are relatively low. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity from your intended departure date​.

Travel Insurance

While it's not mandatory, travel insurance is recommended to cover unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost belongings. Shop around for budget-friendly options that provide adequate coverage.

Take Advantage of Student and Backpacker Discounts

If you're a student, carry an International Student Identity Card (ISIC), which can provide discounts on attractions, transport, and more. Backpackers can benefit from services like the Backpacker Card, offering discounts on accommodations, meals, and activities in various cities​.

Earn While You Travel

Part-time jobs can help cover living costs for those eligible to work on a student or working holiday visa. Working in hospitality, retail, or farm work can be relatively easy to find and allow you to explore different parts of the country while earning. Nepalese travelers on a student visa can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the semester and more during semester breaks​. 

However, it's vital to research the specific eligibility criteria and potential challenges before finding any employment. It's essential to double-check specific visa requirements and insurance options based on your individual circumstances.

The Way Forward: Budget Travel to the Land Down Under

With thoughtful planning and some savvy choices, traveling from Nepal to Australia on a budget is entirely feasible. From affordable flights and accommodations to free attractions and local discounts, you can explore Australia's breathtaking landscapes without overspending.

 

If you're considering making financial arrangements before your trip or need to support your family back in Nepal, trusted services like ACE Money Transfer can help you conveniently and securely send money to Nepal from Australia

ACE Money Transfer ensures you can manage funds effectively, helping you and your loved ones stay financially connected. Start preparing for your affordable Australian adventure today, and let ACE Money Transfer simplify your international money transfers.

FAQs

What is the cheapest time to visit Australia?

The most affordable times to visit Australia are during the off-peak seasons: late autumn (April-May) and early spring (September-October). During these periods, flights and accommodations are generally less expensive due to lower tourist demand.

Do Nepalese citizens need a visa to travel to Australia?

Yes, Nepalese travelers need a visa to enter Australia. For short stays, an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa is required, which can be applied for online. Make sure to apply well in advance and check that your passport has at least six months of validity.

How can I save money on accommodations in Australia?

Opt for budget accommodations like hostels, Airbnb rentals, or guesthouses. Suburban areas outside major city centers often offer cheaper rates and are well-connected by public transportation. Additionally, couchsurfing is a cost-effective way to save on lodging while experiencing local culture.

What are the best budget-friendly transport options in Australia?

Public transportation in Australia’s cities is reliable and affordable. Many cities offer daily or weekly passes for unlimited travel on buses, trams, and trains. For intercity travel, consider budget buses or group car rentals, which can save money on longer journeys.

Is Australia an expensive country for food?

Yes, eating out can be costly in Australia, especially in major cities. To save money, cook your own meals in accommodations with kitchen facilities. Shopping at local supermarkets like Woolworths or Coles and exploring street food markets are also great ways to find affordable dining options.

What is the best way to send money from Australia to Nepal?

A reliable money transfer service like ACE Money Transfer is recommended for sending money from Australia to Nepal. This ensures your transfers are secure and convenient, making it easy to support your family back home or manage your finances while traveling.


 


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