If you are planning to come to Australia for your studies soon, then these are the things to do before arriving in Australia.
So, consider this article as your pre-departure checklist before arriving in Australia.
Let’s go!
1. Passport and Student Visa 🛂
You will need a passport and a student visa to travel to Australia for your studies. So get your student visa sorted nice and early.
Also, make sure that you have a passport which has a validity of at least six months. It is because having a passport with less than six months of validity can cause an issue when arriving in different countries.
We suggest you print all your visa documentation as well, so you have it handy when you need it during your travel.
Tip: Get a little travel bag where you can keep all your passport and travel-related documents, including visa.
2. Student Enrolment and Other Documents 📁
Your educational institution would have issued you a confirmation of enrolment (aka CoE). They would have issued an offer letter or some other documentation as well.
It is important to print out all these student enrolment documents and bring along some other documents as well, including:
Your education certificates
IELTS/PTE test results
Driving license
Birth certificates
Proof of payments
We have a complete list of documents that you need to bring into Australia. You can check the document list here.
This insurance helps to protect students for any health issues while you are in Australia on your student visa.
So make sure you have your health cover policy arranged before you leave home.
4. Book Flights 🛫
We suggest that you book your flights to Australia nice and early after you get your student visa.
Because if you’re booking closer to your arrival date then it can be quite expensive at times.
Keep your flight details in a safe and secure place along with your passport and visa.
We also suggest that you book it through a reputable travel agent or book it directly with an airline. Especially these days due to the cancellations and rescheduling because of COVID-19.
Once you have already booked them, make sure to print out all the booking confirmations from the airlines as well. Print out your boarding pass also if you check yourself online.
5. Travel Insurance 📋
We recommend you get travel insurance, which covers things such as cancelled flights, lost documents, dental or optical care, etc.
You would have already booked your overseas student health cover, but we also suggest you that you have your travel insurance booked as well.
Travel insurance usually covers things like cancelled flights and lost or broken baggage.
Basically all the things which are usually not covered in your Overseas Student Health Cover can be covered in travel insurance.
Although it is not compulsory, we recommend taking it to avoid issues with your travel.
Tip: Check your credit card features as sometimes they offer complimentary travel insurance to their customers.
6. Contact Details ☎️
You may want to have a list of emergency contact details for family, as well as your embassy, accommodation and institution details.
It will be good idea for you to create a list of contact details before arriving in Australia.
This includes:
Emergency contact details
Your family and friends contact details
Your University contact details
Your accommodation in Australia
Your Embassy or local Consulate in Australia
When creating this list, it’s a good idea to have the details of the names, the phone numbers and their physical address as well.
7. Custom, Quarantine and COVID specific information 😷
Understand the Australian custom standards, any quarantine requirements and COVID specific requirements like testing, vaccinations, etc.
As you might be aware that Australian Customs are quite strict regarding the things that you can and can’t bring into Australia.
So we suggest you check the Australian Border Force and Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestery website.
On these websites, you can check individual items that you can and can’t bring into Australia.
Apart from that, understand if there are any specific COVID-19 requirements. These requirements can change at anytime, so we suggest you check the Department of Home Affairs and Department of Health website for latest travel restrictions.
8. Airport Transfer 🛄
So after arriving in Australia, one of the first things you will need is the airport transfer.
Sometimes, your university might offer you a free pickup. If that’s the case, make sure to arrange that nice and early as you may not be able to arrange it if it’ too close to your arrival time.
If your university is not providing the airport pick up service, then you can book a taxi, or you can also get Uber or other ride-sharing services from the airport.
9. Book Accommodation 🏘️
Our suggestion for students regarding the accommodation is to book it nice and early.
Whether it’s a short-term or a long-term accommodation, search for the preferred accommodation on various platforms and book in ahead of time.
University accommodations get booked quite quickly as well, so if you are planning to stay in on-campus accommodation, you need to be quick.
Also, make sure you have the complete address of your accommodation in Australia because you will need to write this on your incoming passenger card.
Tip: Get your payment confirmation of the accommodation printed as well.
10. Australian Currency 💸
It is recommended to have some Australian currency with you prior to leaving your home country.
The common question for international students is how much money should I bring as an international student.
We would say “it depends”, there are a lot of factors that come into play when deciding how much money you need to bring. These factors include:
The city you are arriving
Your preferred lifestyle
Presence of family and friends in Australia
Availability of part-time work
But ideally, if you bring anywhere from $1000 to $2000, it can be great for your first few days.
Of course, you don’t need to bring everything in cash. You can bring it in your bank card or other travel cards.
Before you depart your home country, confirm with your local bank if the international transaction will cost you any fee. This is to avoid any surprise fees charged by the banks or other financial institutions.
Again, the money you want to bring can vary depending on your personal financial circumstances.
11. Packing Bags 🎒
Your bag packing will vary based on the climate of your destination in Australia. As Australia is a huge country, the weather varies from one side to the other.
So you will need to check the weather of your destination throughout the year.
It is important to understand the airline baggage size requirements and things you can and can’t carry while travelling.
As a student, some airlines allow additional luggage as well, so confirm that with your airline nice and early.
If you want a complete packing checklist for international students, we got you sorted with our downloadable packing checklist here.
12. Download Apps 📱
Research and download any relevant apps before you travel. We have a complete list of apps you should download on our website.
You might need to research on what sort of apps you might need when arriving in Australia. You can download some of the apps before arriving in Australia:
Google Maps
Google Translator
Public Transport Apps
Food delivery services
Ride sharing services
Bank apps
Before you leave, here is a little present for reading till now: Download our Pre-departure Checklist from here.
We hope this information helps you with your preparation before travelling to Australia.
Have you been wanting to travel outside of Australia but are unsure which countries will suit your budget?
The good news is that there are many countries where the Australian dollar goes further, and you can enjoy state-of-the-art hotels, delicious foods, and fun recreational activities without breaking your bank.
Here are the 10 cheap countries to visit from Australia that are budget-friendly and won’t leave you bankrupt.
1. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is popularly known as The Island of Gods.
This beautiful island located near the equator of the earth is endowed with the beauty of nature and has an optimal temperature all year round, making it one of the best places to visit.
This country is a great tourist centre for foreigners because of its incredible temples, evergreen forests, and unique culture.
You can get well-furnished and hospitable accommodation at dirt cheap prices, you eat delicious cultural cuisines and engage in tons of recreational activities.
How to reach
All major city airports serve direct flights to Bali. This island is approximately 4,425 kilometers away from Australia (Melbourne) with an approximate flight time of 5.5 hours. Return Plane tickets start from $258 and the average per night spend is AU$60.
Cheapest time to travel
The months of February, May, August and September are the cheapest months to travel to this amazing island.
Must visit attractions
Some of the must-visit places include
Tanah Lot Temple
Uluwatu Temple
Tirta Empul
Sacred Monkey Forest
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Jatiluwih Rice Fields
Beaches of Bali – Kuta, Nusa Dua, Sanur
In this tropical paradise, you can also visit the local spas for the relaxing Balinese massage (must do activity), water parks, and beaches with your friends or families, clubs, and restaurants too.
If you want to have a thrilling adventure, you might consider taking a hike to climb the volcano on Mount Batur. Also, their yoga sessions are a must-try if you’re into yoga.
Generally, the Balinese people are very hospitable and friendly, so you might feel at home while enjoying your stay on the island.
2. Bangkok, Thailand
You can hop on a flight to Thailand from any of the major cities in Australia.
Bangkok is known for its great cradles of Buddhism and uniquely built temples that serve as hot tourist spots for foreigners. With a constant temperature of 30 °C, visiting its white sand beaches is a must for tourists.
How to reach
This island is approximately 5,788 kilometers away from Australia (Melbourne) with an approximate flight time of 9 hours. Plane tickets start from $262 and the average per night spend is AU$80.
Cheapest time to travel
The cheapest months to visit Singapore are March, May, October and November.
Must visit attractions
Some of the popular areas to visit around Thailand include:
Chang Mai
Phuket
Khao Yai National Park
Railay
Ko Pha Ngan
Sukhothai Historical Park
Aside from enjoying delicious Thai food at local restaurants at ridiculously cheap prices, visiting the temples in Bangkok should be at the top of your to-do list.
You can pay a visit to the colorful Sri Mahamariamman temple, the intriguing wooden Pattaya temple, and the three great Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Wat Mahathat temples.
Many travellers head to the islands of Koh Samui or Phuket for more sightseeing and recreation. You will need to take another affordable flight from Bangkok to any of these places. Some airlines fly directly to these islands from Australia as well.
3. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is also known as Pearl of the Indian Ocean.
It is a beautiful island nation, located just south east of India.
If you are interested in history, culture, food, nature or adventure, then Sri Lanka will absolutely help to tick the boxes in quite an affordable way.
How to reach
It’s approximately 8,348 kilometers away from Australia (Melbourne) with an approximate flying time of 10 to 12 hours (direct). Return Flight tickets start from $590 and the average per night spend is AU$40 to $50. With flights available from all major Australian cities with direct and stop overs options.
Cheapest time to travel
It is cheaper to fly in the months of May and October to visit this beautiful island nation. Although keep in mind that these are usually rainy season so you may encounter heavy rainfall during these months.
Must visit attractions
Some of the most popular attractions to visit in Sri Lanka include:
Sigiriya (Ancient rock fortress)
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
Galle Fort
Yala National Park
Polonnaruwa
Dambulla Cave Temple (Golden Temple of Dambulla)
Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada)
Nuwara Eliya
Ella
Mirissa
Sri Lanka is home to many UNESCO heritage sites and ancient monuments, architecture.
Sir Lanka is also known for its affordability with cheaper accommodation and dining options available for budget seekers.
4. Cambodia
Cambodia has made it to our list of cheap countries to visit this year.
Cambodia offers bang for buck for budget travellers with dirt cheap accommodation, food, travel and attraction costs. Along with its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and warm hospitality, it’s one of the must visit destinations.
How to reach
Cambodia is approximately 6,975 kilometers away from Australia (Melbourne) with an approximate flight time of 8 to 9 hours. Plane tickets start from $434 and the average per night spend is AU$40 to $60.
Cheapest time to travel
The cheapest months to visit Cambodia are April, May, September and October. These are considered cheap as it is rainy season in the country with moderate to heavy rainfall.
Must visit attractions
Here are some popular attractions to visit in Cambodia:
Angkor Wat
Phnom Penh
Siem Reap
Sihanoukville
Battambang
Kampot and Kep
Tonle Sap Lake
Preah Vihear Temple
Visit temples like Angkor Wat, museums, and historical sites and if you are into visiting natural landscapes then you can visit Cambodia’s pristine beaches, tropical islands and scenic countryside.
You can enjoy activities like hiking, swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting without breaking the bank.
You will be mesmerised by the food like the Khmer curry, fish amok, and noodle soups at very reasonable prices.
5. Nadi, Fiji
Fiji is popular for its majestic palm trees, therapeutic hot springs, sandy beaches, and Mud pools.
A visit to this tropical paradise can be made possible if you plan your budget right. The good thing about Fiji is that the weather is close to perfect with temperature not dropping below 20 °C even through cold months.
How to reach
This island is approximately 3,159 kilometers away from Australia (Sydney) with an approximate flight time of 4 hours and 30 minutes. Return air tickets start from $455 and the average per night spend is AU$150.
Cheapest time to travel
The cheapest months to visit Nadi, Fiji, are March, August, October and November.
Must visit attractions
Some of the best attractions to visit in Fiji includes:
Wailoaloa Beach
Blue Lagoon Cruise
Sabeto Hot Springs
Navua River
Kula Wild Adventure Park and Kila Eco Adventure Park
Denarau Island
Sunbathing on the Wailoaloa beach and relaxing at the Sabeto Hot springs are places to go for recreation; visiting the local restaurants and trying out their national cuisines are also must-try. Also don’t forget to try their national drink, Kava.
6. Vietnam
Everything from transportation to dining is very much affordable in Vietnam as it is one of the cheapest countries in the world to visit.
It is a local paradise that consists of rural villages and cities which draws in a lot of tourists on a tight budget due to the economical-friendly nature of the country.
How to reach
This backpacker’s paradise is approximately 6,900 kilometers away from Australia (Melbourne) with an approximate flight time of 9 hours and 7 minutes. Return airfares start from $329 and the average per night spend is AU$40.
Cheapest time to travel
The cheapest months to visit Vietnam are March, April, August and September.
Must visit attractions
Unique landmarks such as
Ho Chi Minh City
Hanoi
Phong Nha Ke,
Hoi An Ancient Town,
Bang National Park,
Cu Chi Tunnel,
The Marble Mountains, and
Ha Long Bay
Also, don’t forget to visit their beaches, and local restaurants to try their traditional cuisine and many more.
As a traveller, you can do a complete North (Hanoi, Sa Pa, Ninh Binh), Central (Da Nang, Hoi An) South (Ho Chi Minh,Phu Quoc) trip.
🗺️ 🛫 Planning to go for holidays soon? Search them here. ⤵️
7. Philippines
The Philippines has gained international popularity for its magnificent beaches and coastlines, great diving spots, and unique terrestrial landmarks with over 7,000 islands to see.
The Philippines is also a place where the Australian dollar goes far; you can have a taste of cheap street food for as low as $2 and sophisticated restaurant meals at $10 only, not to forget the ridiculously cheap accommodations of just $10 per night for a single room. This tropical island also has a lot of great monuments with a lot of excavation sites.
How to reach
Many direct flights are available for traveller form all major Australian airports to cities like Manilla and Cebu.
The Philippines is approximately 6,130 kilometers away from Australia (Melbourne) with an approximate flight time of 8 hours. Return airfares start from $282 and the average per night spend is AU$60.
Cheapest time to travel
The cheapest months to visit the Philippines are April, July, August and September.
Must visit attractions
Some of the best things to do in Phillipines include:
Manila
White Beach, Boracay
Coral Garden
Fort Santiago,
National Museum of the Philippines,
Rizal park,
Krus ni Magellan
Batad Rice Terraces, Banaue
Corregidor Island
Diving in the saline waters of the oceans and sunbathing at the popular beaches are just some of the recreational activities to enjoy in the Philippines.
Visiting the tropical islands within the Philippines is also a great spot for viewing astonishing landmarks, so you might want to give that a try as well.
8. Malaysia
This is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Southeast Asia: with its awesome ancient archeological landmarks, modern cities, white sand beaches, and great hiking spots such as Mount Kinabalu, you just can’t get enough of Malaysia.
The most popular and the cheapest city to travel to Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur.
How to reach
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is approximately 6,435 kilometers away from Australia (Melbourne) with an approximate flight time of 8 hours. Return Plane tickets start from $261 and the average per night spend is AU$55.
Cheapest time to travel
June, July, August and October are the cheapest months to travel to Malaysia.
Must visit attractions
You can visit popular tourist spots in Malaysia like:
Batu caves
KL tower
Petronas twin towers
Petaling street flea market
Langkawi sky bridge
Mount Kinabalu, Sabah
Pinang Peranakan Mansion
Going to the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur, which is mostly frequented by foreigners and tourists, is another great sight to see. With a well-planned tour guide, you can see the whole of Kuala Lumpur in just 2 days.
Don’t forget to try the world-famous Roti Canai, Nasi Lemak, Satay, Hokkien Mee Noodles while in Kuala Lumpur.
Island hopping from Kuala Lumpur is also getting popular among foreign tourists. Some of the popular islands including Tioman Island, Redang Island,Pangkor Island, Penang Island and Sipadan Island.
9. Kyoto, Japan
Visiting Japan can come as a two-way street in terms of cost; the accommodation might be a bit pricey, but the food is on the cheap side which makes up for it.
Anime lovers, hold on tight as it might be a dream coming true for you all. Apart from that, if you love Japanese culture and art then it’s a big win as well.
Japan is also nicknamed “The Samurai Blue” because the color of their playing kits has always been blue since the 1930s.
How to reach
Japan is approximately 6,848 kilometers away from Australia (Melbourne) with an approximate flight time of 9 hours and 47 minutes. Return Plane tickets start from $458 and the average per night spend is AU$100.
Cheapest time to travel
February, May, June and September are the cheapest months to travel to Kyoto, Japan.
Must visit attractions
Some of the other popular places to visit in Japan include:
Tokyo
Osaka
Nara
Mt Fuji
Hiroshima
Yakushima
Izu Peninsula
Aside from seeing the beautiful cherry blossoms and boarding the infamous bullet trains, trying out futuristic technological developments like Automatic vending machines, and virtual reality games, and visiting Anime and Manga studios.
Japan is also known for its unique cultural appreciation such as Calligraphy, embroidery weaving, traditional arts, flower arranging, tea ceremonies and so much more, so you might want to try out the traditional side of the samurai blue.
10. New Delhi, India
Another country where the Australian dollar goes far, making it an ideal destination for those on a strict budget. The cost of living in New Delhi, India should not be more than $400 per month, so visiting this country is already a guarantee that your bank won’t break.
To get all the thrill and fun-filled experience in this country, the best visiting time is from October to March. This is because the weather during that time is best appreciated and most welcoming.
How to reach
India is approximately 7,809 kilometers away from Australia (Melbourne) with an approximate flight time of 12 hours and 50 minutes. Return Plane tickets start from $746 and the average per night spend is AU$60.
Cheapest time to travel
January, March, June and July are the cheapest months to travel to New Delhi, India.
Must visit attractions
Some of the best places to visit Indai Include:
Taj Mahal, Agra
Golden Temple, Amritsar
Goa
Mumbai
Ganga River, Varanasi
Ladakh
Dharamsala
Darjeeling
While in Delhi, you can visit tons of local markets, old architecture like Red Fort, Qutub Minar or just catch up on local spicy food. Make sure not to get the Delhi Belly though (Famous term for getting sick after eating local food).
Many traveller also do the golden triangle from New Delhi that includes the city Delhi itself, then visiting Agra for Taj Mahal and then going to the pink city of Jaipur
If you want to go away from the hustle and bustle of these larger cities, then you can also do activities such as Hiking in the Himalayas, doing Yoga in the City of Rishikesh, and sightseeing in the lake city of Udaipur.
Plenty to see and do there for less.
Bonus Countries
Apart from the above listed countries, there are few more budget friendly countries that you can travel from Australia. These are:
Laos
Nepal
Turkey
Morroco
Albania
Final Thoughts
Deciding on which country to visit solely depends on your budget, and what you would love to experience.
Since many of these countries offer a wide array of exciting adventures to explore and so many cultures things to experience, picking one to go to might be a bit difficult.
But we hope this guide helps you make a decision on which one to visit. (or may be all)
In case, you want to make bookings for your holidays to these cheap countries, than you can check Skyscanner website.
Well, that’s all you need to know about the cheapest countries to visit from Australia. Let us know which country you would like to visit in the comment section below.
Frequently Asked Questions by Travellers in Australia
How long is the flight time to Bali from Australia?
The flying time to Bali varies from each city. Here is a quick guide about flight time to Bali from different Australian cities: – Flight time from Melbourne to Bali – Approximately 6 hours – Flight time from Sydney to Bali – Approximately 6 hours 30 mins – Flight time from Brisbane to Bali – Approximately 6 hours 15 mins – Flight time from Perth to Bali – Approximately 3 hours 45 mins – Flight time from Adelaide to Bali – Approximately 5 hours 20 mins – Flight time from Darwin to Bali – Approximately 2 hours 35 mins
What are the closest countries to Australia for travel?
Here are the closest countries to Australia for travel: – Indonesia – New Caledonia – New Zealand – Fiji – Papua New Guinea – Vanuatu
Which country is the best for cheap travel from Australia?
Here are the list of cheap countries to travel from Australia: – Thailand – Indonesia – Vietnam – Laos – Cambodia – India – Philippines
Fireworks celebrations in Australia are a staple of the country’s cultural calendar.
They are often used to mark special occasions such as New Year’s Eve, Australia Day, and various sporting events. The spectacular displays are enjoyed by millions of people across the country and are a testament to the nation’s love of celebration and entertainment.
One of the most iconic fireworks celebrations in Australia is the New Year’s Eve fireworks display. The event is televised across the country and attracts millions of viewers.
As stunning and vibrant Fireworks are, the angle, location and environment where you see them is a very important factor to consider if you would like to make the best out of the experience.
To make it easier for you, we have handpicked some of the best places to see New Year’s Eve fireworks in Australia.
10 Best places to see New Year’s Eve fireworks in Sydney
One of the best things about seeing fireworks in Sydney is the sheer scale of the displays. Sydney is home to some of the largest and most impressive fireworks displays in the world, with the New Year’s Eve fireworks being the most famous.
These displays feature thousands of fireworks that light up the night sky, creating a truly breathtaking and unforgettable experience.
Here are some of the best places to see fireworks in Sydney:
Barangaroo Reserve: Located at the northwest of the CBD, the panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge is unbeatable for catching the glimpse of the Sydney’s world famous new year’s firework.
Darling Harbour: This bustling waterfront area is home to a number of popular restaurants and bars, making it a great place to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
Sydney Opera House: The world-famous Opera House is another prime location for fireworks viewing, with its unique architecture providing a stunning backdrop for the pyrotechnic displays.
Observatory Hill: Observatory Hill offers amazing views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and you can catch the New Year’s fireworks without breaking the bank from here.
The Royal Botanic Garden: The beautiful gardens and waterways of the Royal Botanic Garden make it a perfect spot to watch the fireworks, with many spots available around the Botanic Gardens to view the spectacular fireworks. Although Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair is arguably the best spot.
Taronga Zoo: The Taronga Zoo offers spectacular views of the annual fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve, offering visitors the chance to see the pyrotechnics alongside some of the world’s most exotic animals.
Bondi Beach: Sydney’s famous beach is another popular spot for fireworks viewing, with crowds gathering to watch the displays on New Year’s Eve and other special occasions.
The Rocks: This historic area of Sydney is home to a number of popular pubs and restaurants, making it a great place to watch the fireworks while enjoying a drink or a meal.
Sydney Tower Eye: The observation deck of the Sydney Tower Eye offers panoramic views of the city, making it a great place to watch the fireworks from above.
Luna Park: This iconic amusement park hosts special fireworks displays on select nights throughout the year, but you can catch the fun and festive atmosphere on New Year’s Eve here. It can be on the expensive side to buy the tickets, but the views are quite spectacular.
10 Best places to see New Year’s Eve fireworks in Melbourne
Fireworks in Melbourne are enjoyed by people of all ages and are an integral part of the city’s cultural identity. The displays are a testament to the city’s vibrant and diverse culture and bring people together to celebrate and share in the joy of the occasion.
Here are some of the best places to see fireworks in Melbourne:
Melbourne City Skyline: The Melbourne skyline provides a stunning backdrop for fireworks displays, with numerous vantage points available throughout the city.
Yarra Park: Located next to the MCG, Yarra Park is another popular spot for fireworks displays in Melbourne.
Federation Square: Located in the heart of Melbourne, Federation Square is a popular location for fireworks displays, including on New Year’s Eve.
Docklands: The Docklands area of Melbourne is home to a number of annual fireworks displays, including the Docklands New Year’s Eve Fireworks and the Melbourne Fireworks Festival.
Treasury Gardens: Located on the eastern side of the CBD, Treasury Garden offers a free view of the Melbourne city’s fireworks.
Queensbridge Square: One of the most popular places for New Year’s Eve’s fireworks is Queensbridge Square in the city, in front of the popular Crown Casino.
Eureka Skydeck: The Eureka Skydeck is located on the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower and offers 360-degree views of Melbourne. It is a popular spot for fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve.
Flagstaff Gardens: Located in the CBD, Flagstaff Gardens is a popular spot for fireworks displays, including on New Year’s Eve.
Royal Botanic Gardens: The Royal Botanic Gardens is a beautiful location for fireworks displays, with the gardens providing a stunning backdrop.
St. Kilda Beach: St. Kilda Beach is a popular location for fireworks displays, with the beach providing a beautiful setting for the displays.
10 Best places to see New Year’s Eve fireworks in Brisbane
There are special places in Brisbane we recommend you see fireworks, some of which include:
South Bank Parklands: The South Bank Parklands are a popular spot for fireworks on New Year’s Eve and other special occasions. The park is located on the south side of the Brisbane River and offers views of the city skyline and river.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs: The Kangaroo Point Cliffs are another popular spot for fireworks in Brisbane. Located on the east side of the city, the cliffs offer panoramic views of the city and river, making them a great place to watch fireworks.
Victoria Bridge: It is another very popular vantage point to view Brisbane’s New Year fireworks for families.
Wilson’s Lookout, New Farm Park: New Farm Park is a popular destination for fireworks on New Year’s Eve. The park is located on the north side of the Brisbane River and offers views of the city skyline and river.
Mount Coot-tha: Mount Coot-tha is a mountain located on the west side of Brisbane, and it offers great views of the city and surrounding area. The mountain is a popular spot for fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
Roma Street Parkland: Roma Street Parkland is a large park located in the heart of Brisbane, and it is a popular spot for fireworks on New Year’s Eve and other special occasions. The park offers views of the city skyline and river.
The Story Bridge: The Story Bridge is an iconic bridge located in the heart of Brisbane, and it is a popular spot for fireworks on New Year’s Eve. You can climb the bridge as well to view the spectacular fireworks.
The Goodwill Bridge: The Goodwill Bridge is a pedestrian and cyclist bridge located in the heart of Brisbane, and it is a popular spot for fireworks on New Year’s Eve. The bridge offers great views of the city skyline and river.
City Hall: City Hall is a historic building located in the heart of Brisbane CBD, and the building offers a great view of the city skyline to view the fireworks.
City Riverwalk: To view the city’s amazing fireworks, you can head toward City Riverwalk inclusing Riverside Centre and Eagle Street Pier.
10 Best places to see New Year’s Eve fireworks in Adelaide
Adelaide is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene. If you’re looking for a place to see fireworks in Adelaide, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Here are some of the best places to see fireworks in Adelaide:
Adelaide Riverbank: The riverbank in Adelaide is a popular spot to watch fireworks, with stunning views of the city skyline and the Torrens River.
Rymill Park: You can enjoy vibrant atmosphere and catch the fireworks in the Adelaide’s favourite parks.
Adelaide Oval: The oval is another great spot to see fireworks, with a large open space that allows for a clear view of the sky.
Glenelg Beach: The beach is a popular spot to watch fireworks, with the sand and sea providing a beautiful backdrop.
Botanic Park: The park is a tranquil setting to watch fireworks, with the park’s gardens and trees providing a natural and peaceful atmosphere.
Himeji Gardens: The Japanese-style gardens in Adelaide provide a serene setting to watch fireworks, with the traditional architecture and landscaping creating a unique atmosphere.
Mount Lofty Summit: The summit provides panoramic views of Adelaide, making it a perfect spot to watch fireworks from a distance.
Elder Park: The park is located in the heart of Adelaide, making it an easily accessible spot to watch fireworks.
Henley Beach: The beach is a popular spot for fireworks, with the sand and sea providing a beautiful backdrop.
Adelaide Zoo: The zoo is a unique setting to watch fireworks, with the animals providing added entertainment.
10 Best places to see New Year’s Eve fireworks in Perth
Fireworks in Perth are a popular and exciting part of the city’s events and celebrations. From New Year’s Eve to Australia Day and beyond, the skies above Perth are lit up with a dazzling array of colourful explosions.
Here are some of the best places to see fireworks in Perth:
Elizabeth Quay: This waterfront area is a popular spot for fireworks, with displays taking place on New Year’s Eve and other special occasions.
Perth Cultural Centre: This is a popular spot for fireworks, with displays taking place on New Year’s Eve and other special occasions.
Kings Park: This beautiful park offers a great vantage point to watch fireworks, with displays taking place on Australia Day and other special events.
Crown Casino: This popular casino often hosts fireworks displays for special events such as New Year’s Eve and Australia Day.
Mandurah: This coastal town is a great place to watch fireworks, with displays taking place on New Year’s Eve and other special occasions.
South Perth: This suburb offers great views of the city skyline, making it a great spot to watch fireworks displays on special occasions like New Years.
Cottesloe Beach: This popular beach is a great spot to watch fireworks, with displays taking place on New Year’s Eve and other special occasions.
City Beach: This iconic Perth beach is a great spot to watch fireworks, with displays taking place on New Year’s Eve and other special occasions.
Rottnest Island: Enjoy a unique way of bringing new year this year by catching the fireworks from Rottnest Island in Western Australia.
Fremantle Esplanade: Just 30 mins from Perth city, you can also catch the fireworks in this town, also known as Perth’s old town.
10 Best places to see New Year’s Eve fireworks in Gold Coast
Gold Coast is a vibrant and welcoming city, and the fireworks display is just one of the many reasons it is a popular holiday destination. Whether you are a local or a visitor, the fireworks on the Gold Coast are not to be missed.
There are several good places to see fireworks in Gold Coast. Some options include:
Surfers Paradise Beach: This iconic beach is a popular spot to watch fireworks, especially during special events such as New Year’s Eve.
Main Beach: The Main Beach area, located between Surfers Paradise and Southport, also offers a great view of fireworks displays.
Broadbeach: Kurrawa Park, Broadbeach is a famous spot for the families to watch the spectacular show of fireworks in Gold Coast.
Coolangatta Beach: This southernmost beach on the Gold Coast is a great spot to watch fireworks, with a clear view across the water.
Burleigh Heads: Burleigh Heads is another popular spot to watch fireworks, with a clear view across the water and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the show.
Robina Town Centre: Celebrate the new year’s arrival with the live music, entertainment and fireworks at the Robina Town Centre.
Broadwater Parklands: Located in the northern part of the Gold Coast, the Broadwater Parklands offer a great spot to watch fireworks, with plenty of grassy areas to spread out and enjoy the show.
North Kirra Beach: Located just south of Coolangatta, Kirra Beach is another popular spot to watch fireworks on the Gold Coast.
Mermaid Beach: This beach on the central Gold Coast is another popular spot to watch fireworks, with a clear view across the water and plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the show.
Palm Beach: Located on the northern end of the Gold Coast, Palm Beach is a great spot to watch fireworks, with plenty of grassy areas to spread out and enjoy the show.
10 Best places to see New Year’s Eve fireworks in Canberra
Fireworks are a popular and exciting spectacle in the city of Canberra. Here are some of the best places to see fireworks in Canberra:
Lake Burley Griffin: This iconic location in the heart of Canberra is a popular spot for fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve and other special occasions.
Civic Square: One of other popular spots for catching Canberra’s firework display is at Civic Square.
Mount Ainslie Lookout: This scenic lookout provides breathtaking views of the city and is a prime spot for watching fireworks on special occasions.
Regatta Point: This popular spot along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin is a great place to watch fireworks, particularly on New Year’s Eve.
Patrick White: Another popular spot along with lake Burley Griffin to watch Canberra’s fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
Kingston Foreshore: This vibrant waterfront area is a popular spot for fireworks displays, particularly on New Year’s Eve.
Bowen Park: Next to the Kington’s Foreshores, Bowen Park is one of the hot spots for catching the glimpse of New Year’s firework in Canberra.
Reconciliation Place: This peaceful park along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin is a great spot to watch fireworks and celebrate Australia Day.
Old Parliament House: The lawns of Old Parliament House offer a great vantage point for watching fireworks, particularly on Australia Day.
Commonwealth Park: This picturesque park along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin is another popular spot for fireworks displays, including the annual Floriade festival.
10 Best places to see New Year’s Eve fireworks in Hobart
Hobart is known for its beautiful waterfront and historic architecture. Every year, the city celebrates New Year’s Eve with a stunning display of fireworks over the harbour.
Here are some of the best places to see fireworks in Hobart:
Constitution Dock – This is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks display. The dock offers a stunning view of the river and the city skyline.
Mount Wellington – This mountain provides a panoramic view of Hobart and the surrounding areas. It’s a great spot to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve or other special occasions.
Salamanca Place – This historic waterfront area is home to many restaurants, bars, and cafés, making it a popular spot for watching fireworks.
Battery Point – This suburb is known for its charming colonial-style houses and narrow streets. It’s a great spot to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve or other special occasions.
Princes Park – This large public park is located on the eastern shore of the River Derwent. It’s a great spot to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve or other special occasions.
Queens Domain – This large park is located on the western shore of the River Derwent. It’s a great spot to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve or other special occasions.
Hobart Cenotaph – This memorial is located in the city centre and offers a great view of the fireworks on New Year’s Eve or other special occasions.
Mawson Place – This small park is located in the city centre and offers a great view of the fireworks on New Year’s Eve or other special occasions.
The Esplanade – This long stretch of waterfront parkland is located on the eastern shore of the River Derwent. It’s a great spot to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve or other special occasions.
The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) – This modern art museum is located on the western shore of the River Derwent. It offers a unique setting to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
8 Best places to see New Year’s Eve fireworks in Darwin
The fireworks displays in Darwin are known for their vibrant colours and impressive size, as they are set off over the city’s waterfront area and can be seen from miles away.
Here are some of the best places to see fireworks in Darwin:
Darwin Waterfront: The waterfront area is another popular spot to watch fireworks, especially on New Year’s Eve and Australia Day.
Mindil Beach Casino Resort: This casino and resort complex regularly hosts fireworks displays, particularly on special occasions such as New Year’s Eve and Australia Day.
Darwin Harbour – The harbour area is a great place to watch fireworks, especially on New Year’s Eve when the harbour is lit up with a spectacular display.
Charles Darwin National Park – This park, located just outside of Darwin, offers a peaceful and natural setting to watch fireworks on special occasions.
East Point Reserve – This reserve, located on the eastern side of Darwin, is a great spot to watch fireworks, particularly on New Year’s Eve and Australia Day.
Cullen Bay Marina – The marina is another good place to watch fireworks, especially on New Year’s Eve when the marina is lit up with a spectacular display.
George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens – These beautiful gardens, located in the suburb of The Gardens, are a great place to watch fireworks on special occasions.
Bicentennial Park – Located in the suburb of Fannie Bay, this park is a popular spot for fireworks on New Years and Australia Day.
Keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to check with local authorities or event organisers to confirm the location and timing of any fireworks displays because fireworks displays vary from year to year.
Australia has so much to offer international students. Students are lucky they can explore Australia on a budget. There are so many amazing things in Australia, It will take a lifetime to explore them. So, here is the ultimate bucket list of frugal fun activities for students in Australia.
These recommendations on Frugal-Fun activities for international students in Australia are on a low budget, you don’t need to worry about the expenses. The biggest expense on which you’ve to spend is a flight ticket. But there are so many flights that offer student discounts or the best rates possible.
So, are you excited?
Let’s start!
1. Hop On Beaches Around Sydney
International students can experience different things in Australia. The beaches around Sydney are famed. If students want to get the classic experience, they should take the green Manly Ferry from Circular Key across Sydney Harbor to Manly Beach.
Students will have to spend $10 on tickets, and it’s worth it because there are so many views and for the transport itself. You can also go from a 4-mile Coogee Beach to Bondi Beach and walk along coastal cliffs.
This is one of the cheapest activity for Australian students, and you will also have a superb experience for sure.
2. Go to the Sydney Opera House
This is the most interesting place in Sydney and is known as iconic as the Eiffel Tower. Here students can get knowledge of different things like you can select a tour to get an inside look into the building, this will give you a whole new appreciation and idea of just how much effort and work it took to create this architectural masterpiece.
If students plan to tour the opera house, it will be great and make them feel alive. It will look so beautiful in pictures. Data shows that more than 10.9 million people visit the Opera House every year.
3. Scale Cradle Mountain in Tasmania
As international students want cheap & free, frugal fun activities, this scale, cradle mountain is the cheapest to visit. If you get the opportunity to go there, you should definitely try. You will find there are some amazing things to do on a student budget, such as hiking up the beautiful Cradle Mountain in the Central Highlands.
Student life is full of expenses, so they have to take care of so many things such as looking for coupons for shopping, sharing a room, using public transport, or saving from their pocket money.
If they break their budget, they will have to face problems. But that doesn’t mean students can’t enjoy their life. If they consider these places to visit, it will not harm their budget.
4. Examine the Rocks District
There are so many places in Australia that will make you feel modern. But there are also classics & history available. Students must see Hidden alleyways lead to fantastic markets and colonial buildings. The 2021 estimated data shows that the Resident Population for The Rocks, Millers Point, and Dawes Point is 2,865, with a population density.
You will be surprised to look at the shining stars at the Sydney Observatory and ogle at artefacts at the Rocks Discovery Museum. Australia is one of the unique continents on the planet. If you live in Sydney for studies, you must watch the epic geological history all around you!
5. See Tame Dolphins at Monkey Mia
Most students have the desire to watch dolphins and feed them something. Dolphins have been swimming up to the beach at the Monkey Mia peninsula in Shark Bay on the West Coast since the 1960s. They come in every morning in knee-deep water to entertain the tourists.
These frugal entertaining activities for boys and girls students help to get different experiences in life. Students just don’t want to miss any chance and enjoy every moment of their life.
6. Relax At the Blue Mountains
The thing to do for students in Australia within budget is to feel the fresh mountain air, it feels to you as you rise above Sydney and enter the spectacular Blue Mountains region. If you want to explore the best, The Blue Mountains are perfect for it.
They are situated within a World Heritage area, offering a peaceful, relaxing environment for that perfect lifestyle. There’s nothing better than fresh mountain air. You will be motivated here to hit the books for next week’s exams or research papers!
7. Camp on Fraser Island
Fraser Island is known as the largest sand island in the world. It will give Fraser Island visitors room to access the best of Island life. This is full of amazing activities, with subtropical rainforests to walk through; over 100 freshwater lakes to swim in. This can be a great frugal activity for students during their summer break.
Students will get an unforgettable island eco-adventure. There is also an option for the cruise to discover the untouched beauty of the remote western side of the island. Isn’t it an economical student-friendly activity in Australia?
8. Enjoy An Australian Rugby Match
Students will enjoy seeing Wallabies play! The Rugby match is a favourite sport for most Australians. People come from different places to New South Wales, Queensland to watch this match.
Every student has different choices in sports, but they enjoy whatever sport they watch live. There are so many fun activities for international students in Australia, and this Rugby match is one of them.
Always look up for student tickets or ask local student associations for freebies.
9. Dance All Night In Brown Alley, Melbourne
Everyone enjoys the parties, dancing, food, cheers, etc. This nightclub will bring a special night in a student’s life when they forget all the stress and just take a break from their hectic life.
This club is known as the most forward-thinking club in Australia. International students will always remember these special moments when they spent less money and enjoyed the most.
10. Climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge
Students must do thrifty things while studying in Australia to bring some enjoyment to their lives. Harbor Bridge is the main tourist attraction. Visit the top, well-known building and enjoy an unbeatable view of the Sydney city skyline.
You can go there either at night or by day. More than 4 million Climbers came to Australia from 140 different countries around the world, since 1 October 1998.
Look up on deals or coupon websites to find best student deals for climbing this famous bridge.
11. Try Sand Boarding In Dunes
Australia must recommend international people to experience Sandboarding in the desert. Students will feel that this is one of the most exciting inland sports experiences they will ever have.
Students must do Australian activities for every budget to enhance their knowledge, and it will be their favourite outdoor activity for sure. Slide down the dunes and feel like a snowboarder for a moment.
12. Explore The Local Markets
Local markets are available overall in Australia. In local markets, when you connect to people, you’ll learn a lot about Australian culture. Every time going to a branded store becomes boring, it will be fun to try some new adventure.
So, meet the locals and try local cheese, chocolates, and jam. It will not affect your financial planning, surely.
13. Bet A Dollar At Melbourne Cup
The Melbourne Cup is the most famous in Australia. A lot of people come to see the horse race. It is also the richest “two-mile” handicap in the world and is known as one of the richest turf races.
Whenever students get a chance to attend the Melbourne Horse Cup, they must join. Look up on student association websites or boards for getting a deal to enter Melbourne cup.
If you can’t get the tickets, then you might be able to watch it in local pub, bar or pokies.
Conclusion
Studies are important in life, but at the same time fun is also important to stay cheered up. There are so many fun activities to do in Australia, whatever you choose, depends on your budget.
These are the few ways by which students can save money to enjoy the max by spending the least. Activities do not just give you enjoyment, but also help you to learn new things.
Many international students decide to leave Australia after completing their studies.
As per the recent information by Education Minister, Jason Clare, only 16% of international students stay back after completing their studies in Australia.
So in this article we are going to discuss 10 important things to do before leaving Australia as an international student.
1. File Your Tax Return 📄
The Australian financial year runs from the 1st of July to 30th of June, with the last day of filing the tax returns by the 31st of October each year.
There are chances that you might not be leaving Australia within this time frame.
We highly recommend that you do your tax return before leaving, even though it might not be within the timeframe for doing your tax return for the financial year.
You can do it with the help of a tax agents like Taxback.com, or you can do it yourself by using a tax form available on this website www.ato.gov.au
2. Claim Superannuation 💰
While working in Australia, your employer would have most likely paid you superannuation, which is currently 10.5% of your gross salary or wages.
Over the years, you might have accumulated a significant amount of money in your superannuation fund account. Usually, you are not allowed to use this money until you retire or leave the country permanently.
If you are leaving Australia for good, then you can certainly claim this money back.
You can only claim this money after you have left Australia, so we highly recommend that you collect all the documents that you need to lodge this application when you are overseas.
You can use the services of tax agents like Taxback.com for getting your superannuation as well.
If you want to know more about how superannuation works, then check out our YouTube video.
3. Get Your Rental Deposit Back 🏡
When you rent a property in Australia, you are required to pay a rental deposit, also known as a bond, which is claimable once your lease is over.
It is important to let your landlord know nice and early before leaving.
Also, when leaving the property, make sure it’s nice and tidy and there are no damages to the property, as your landlord can take money out of your bond if the property is damaged.
However, if everything is good, you are entitled to get a full refund of your bond money.
It is also important that you cancel or transfer your lease and make sure you pay off all the bills, like your utility bills and card bills.
4. Pick Up Your Certificates 📖
After you’ve completed your degree, it’s important to pick up your certificate and other relevant documents from your university or institution.
There have been cases where some international students forgot to pick up their certificate before leaving Australia.
In those cases, students had to contact their university to send it to them in their home country, which obviously costs them money due to shipping costs.
So it’s important you pick up your certificates from your school before leaving Australia.
5. Close Your Bank Accounts 🏦
While living and working in Australia, there are chances that you have opened a bank account or perhaps multiple bank accounts.
If you have multiple bank accounts, we certainly suggest you close a few before leaving Australia and keep at least one open where you can get your money for your tax refund and superannuation as well.
We don’t suggest you close all your bank accounts at the time of leaving Australia, but we suggest you close them all after receiving your tax refund and superannuation.
It is much easier to get money directly into your bank account than to have a cheque sent to your overseas address.
It might be a good idea for you to drop by one of the bank branches or call your bank when you’re ready to close your account.
We also suggest you close your account because of the monthly fees you may have to pay after completing your studies.
If you’re no longer a student, the bank starts charging you a monthly fee to keep an account with them, so to avoid that sort of fee, we highly suggest you close the account, but wait until you get your tax refund and superannuation money back.
6. Transfer your money 💸
Before closing your bank accounts, you might like to transfer your money to overseas bank accounts.
We don’t recommend that you carry all the money in cash when travelling back home, but rather find a way to send it before you arrive.
Most of the countries might have limits on how much cash you can bring into the country without declaring and paying custom duties.
So find better alternative services for transferring your money to your overseas bank account.
Usually banks have pretty poor exchange rates, so many students like to use other transfer services like Wise, etc.
7. Ask For References 😀
If you are working in Australia, we recommend you get a letter of reference or recommendation from your current employer, which can certainly help you a lot in getting a job in your home country.
If you have a good reputation with your teachers or trainers, we highly recommend that you get a letter of reference from them as well, as this will be great for your career.
8. Sell Your Unwanted Stuff 🛌
Even if you study in Australia for a couple of years, chances are that you will collect a lot of unwanted items.
We highly recommend you find things you don’t really need and start selling them ahead of time. You can sell them or give away for free on websites such as Facebook’s marketplace or Gumtree.
We strongly advise you to sell any unwanted or heavy items that you cannot take with you. If you are in a rush to leave, then you can arrange with your local council for furniture disposal.
We don’t recommend you leave your furniture or other belongings in the property or on the nature strip outside your house, as you can get a fine from the council or the landlord can deduct money from the bond.
9. Shipping Things Back Home 🚢
After selling your unwanted items, it’s time for you to start thinking of how you can send the things you need or want to bring with you to your home country.
If you have many things that you have to take back to your home, then it’s a good idea to look for the cheapest freight company.
You can send those items by sea or air, but shipping by sea is usually much cheaper. It takes much longer for items to arrive in your home country if you are using the sea freight option.
So do your research and look for a freight company you can trust to deliver your items safely to your home country. We suggest you ask for recommendations in the facebook groups.
10. Travel Around Australia 🛫
Before you return home, make sure you visit the Australian destinations on your bucket list that you were unable to visit earlier.
Australia is a beautiful country and it has its own special landscape, so we highly recommend you travel around Australia and tick off items on your bucket list before leaving.
Most students drive around the east coast or west coast of Australia, and if you would like to explore both places, that would be great.
You can check our special article on Australia’s most popular pink lakes that you should visit.
11. Say Goodbye To Friends 👋
It is important to acknowledge the contributions that people have made to your life in Australia.
We know it’s very heartbreaking to leave your friends, but make sure you say a proper goodbye to your friends before leaving Australia.
You can organize a barbecue and have your friends come over to your place or eat out with them.
So these are the 10 things we suggest you do before leaving Australia. There are many other things that you need to do before leaving Australia, so we suggest you download this checklist. This checklist will help you check more things you need to do before leaving Australia.
One of the most commonly asked questions by many international students is “What should I pack in my bags when coming to Australia for my studies?”
So, in this article, we are covering a comprehensive packing checklist for international students for the things they must bring and things they should avoid when coming to Australia.
Before talking about a comprehensive packing list for international students, there are few factors you need to consider.
Let’s discuss them first.
Factors that can affect your packing list
1. City
Depending on the city you are coming in, your packing might vary. For example, if you are coming to cities like Melbourne, Hobart, Canberra, Perth, Sydney etc. that gets really cold in winters, then you might need to pack more winter clothes than if you are coming to warmer cities like Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Darwin etc.
2. Accommodation
There are different types of accommodation that students usually live in Australia. Some of the popular accommodation type include:
University campus accommodation,
Purpose-built student accommodation
Hostels
Sharing with friends or family.
Facilities available in your chosen accommodation type will determine if you will have to pack less or more of certain items.
3. Personal Choice
Although we can give you a general recommendation, in the end, it is your final choice to decide whether you want to bring certain items or not.
Essential packing list for international students
Now, let’s discuss your packing checklist. To make it easier, we categorised your packing checklist into different categories.
1. Luggage bags
Luggage bags are one of the most important things you need because you’re going to pack everything in these bags.
Before buying any bag, make sure you look at the airline’s recommendations to know what type of bag dimensions are allowed on your flights.
We highly recommend that you buy a high-quality bag because you might need to move a few times while living in Australia.
American Tourister is one brand that has high quality bags. There are many brands that you can choose from depending on your budget and your choice, but spending some extra money on good luggage is a must.
Here are types of bags you might consider getting for your packing:
Backpack
Hand bag
Luggage bags
Laptop bag
School bag
Quick Tip: Get bags with wheels as they are easy when moving around the airports.
2. Electronics
You can bring your existing electronics like your laptop, phone, and camera.
We do not suggest you buy electronics from your home country before coming here, (exception applies for those students who can buy cheaper electronics from their home countries).
So, if you are planning to buy a brand-new laptop or a brand-new phone, we suggest that you buy them in Australia itself.
It will be much easier to get replacements or warranties, and they will have Australian charging plugs and other features.
Make sure you also bring your chargers for your electronic devices/
Other electronic items that you may have to bring along are your personal grooming equipment like your hair dryers, hair straighteners, electronic trimmers, electric shavers, or any other grooming kits.
Also, very importantly, if you can get a couple of universal plugs that are like your travel adapters, that can be really handy while travelling and after arriving in Australia.
Here is our suggestion for packing your electronic items:
Laptop
Phone
Tablet
Chargers
Powerbank
Headphones
Travel adapters
Memory cards
Hair dryers/straighteners
Electronic trimmers and shavers
Other grooming kits
3. Clothing
When it comes to clothing, it has a lot to do with personal decisions.
We recommend that you do some shopping in your home country but keep some of your budget for shopping in Australia as well, because you want to get clothes as per Australian style too.
Here are some general recommendations you should consider:
T-shirts -. You don’t necessarily need to buy new ones, but we suggest that you bring some plain black and plain white t-shirts because sometimes you might need them for work purposes.
Pants – Bring few pants and jeans and few shorts as well
Jackets – If you are coming into colder cities like Melbourne, Hobart, or Canberra, then definitely bring along some hoodies, sweatshirts, sweaters, and jackets. Puffer jackets are very popular in Australia.
Formal dresses – Bring at least one set of formal attire, preferably in black, because this colour can be worn for work as well as for more casual occasions such as going to parties and other events.
Traditional Clothes – Bring at least one pair of traditional clothes from your home country. As you know, Australia is a multicultural country. There may be a chance that you might be going to some events related to your home country in Australia, so you definitely want to wear those traditional clothes at those sorts of events.
Undergarments – When it comes to undergarments, the more, the merrier. So for your undershirts, your underwear, or even socks, we recommend you bring at least 14 pairs of all these items. The reason being that you might not be able to wash your clothes every single day, especially if you’re going to study, work, and do everything by yourself. You might be doing it on a weekly basis, or if things get busy, you might be doing it every two weeks.
Sleepwear – At least two pairs of your sleepwear.
Masks – Don’t forget to pack some face masks.
4. Footwear
When it comes to footwear, bring one formal shoe (plain black is the best option to go with), as well as one or two casual shoes.
You can also bring along one pair of semi-casual shoes.
Lastly, you must bring at least one pair of flip-flops or sliders, or thongs (as we say in Australia).
Quick packing list for footwear include:
Casual shoes
Formal shoes
Semi-casual shoes
Flipflops/Sliders
5. Kitchen Items
Your kitchen items packing will depend on what facilities are already available in your accommodation for cooking.
But we will suggest that you bring a couple each of plates, cups, and cutlery such as spoons, knives, and forks.
When it comes to cooking, everyone has their own different preferences, so it might be worthwhile for you to pack some specific cooking equipment that you may not get in Australia.
Your cooking packing checklist could look like:
Plates
Cups
Bowls
Cutlery
Special cooking equipment’s (eg special pans, cookers, etc)
Quick Tip: It is recommended to get microwave safe kitchenware.
6. Bedding
We recommend you bring at least one to two bedsheets from your home country.
You can ask the accommodation provider if they are going to provide pillows and quilts.
As quilt and the pillows can take up lots of space so make sure you to get compressed for bringing them along with you to Australia
Bedding checklist:
Bedsheets
Pillow covers
Pillow
Quilt
7. Medicines
You can bring some basic medicines without any prescriptions, but you would need to declare any medicines you are bringing in on your incoming passenger card.
Incoming passenger card will be given to you during your flight to Australia. You will need to complete this form correctly and truthfully.
If you want to know more about what to declare and what not to declare, we highly recommend watching this video on how to complete your incoming passenger card.
If you are going to bring some specific medicines that are only prescribed for you, then you definitely need a prescription for that.
If you can’t bring a prescription for some of the basic medications like cold and flu tablets, then we suggest that you get an invoice from your local pharmacy for those medications.
Again, all the medicines must be declared regardless of whether they’re with the prescription or without prescription.
We also definitely recommend you also bring a little first aid kit in your package.
Medicine packing list:
General cold and flu tablets like Panadol
Prescription medicines
Prescription glasses (if wearing)
Small First-Aid kit
8. Bathroom items
We recommend that you bring at least two bath and face towels and at least one each of the toiletry items as well.
If you’re using any specific type of toiletry products, it might be worthwhile to get some additional packages for those items.
Quick Tip: Look up on websites like Coles, Woolworths, Chemist Warehouses for comparing prices for toiletries.
Here is a list of toiletries you can bring along with you:
Bath Towels
Face Towels
Handkerchiefs
Soap
Shampoo
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Face wash
Hand and body creams
Lip care
Cosmetics
Deodorants
Perfumes
Nail Cutter
Comb
Razor
Female hygiene products
9. Stationery
As you’re coming to Australia for your studies, it is recommended to pack up some stationery which includes:
Few notebooks
Pens
Pencils
Calculator
University backpack
10. Food and Snacks
When it comes to food, there are some items you are allowed to bring and many others you’re not allowed to bring or you have to declare it on your incoming passenger card.
We also suggest you check our video on the items you can and can’t bring into Australia:
11. Documents
We have a very comprehensive guide on what to pack in regards to your documents. You can check the complete document guide here.
In short, you should bring these documents:
Passport
COE
Travel documents like Flight tickets etc.
Visa related documents
Educational documents
Insurance document
Overseas Driving License
Job related documents
Other relevant documents
Items you should not pack for travel to Australia
Here are the items that you should not be packing at all when travelling to Australia:
Fresh fruits and vegetable/ perishable items
Food from the plane
Firearms, weapons, explosive material
Soil/mud/clay attached to the shoes
Illegal pornography including any child pornography
Illicit drugs
Animal products
Plant materials and live plants
Fake designer goods
Pirated CDs/DVDs
Final words
To sum up, the packing list for international students will vary based on multiple factors but it is important to remember to bring along essential items you need as an individual.
A quick final tip will be that as there are limits on the weight from the airlines, you will need to figure out which items are more important for you and which items you can leave behind.
To make it easier for you, we have created a comprehensive checklist on what you should pack when you’re coming to Australia for your studies.