Australia is a massive country with diverse landscapes and countless cities, regional towns, and natural wonders. From the tropical north in Queensland to the rugged red sands of the outback, there’s so much for you to see, and you don’t need your own car to do it.
At Remitly, we know that figuring out transportation in a new country can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re an international student or a newcomer looking for the best car-free travel options, we want to help you move around with confidence.
Overview of transport options
Getting around Australia is easier than you might think, thanks to a variety of public transport and travel options. Major cities have well-connected bus networks, while long-distance travel is covered by companies like bus operator Greyhound. These transport companies offer routes between regional and remote areas.
The train network also provides a mix of affordable intercity links, like TrainLink in New South Wales, and scenic journeys, such as The Ghan and Indian Pacific, which offer a unique way to experience Australia’s vast landscapes.
If you are looking for faster travel, domestic flights are a convenient choice. Budget airlines like Jetstar and full-service carriers like Qantas connect cities and regional hubs. If you’re near the coast, you can also take ferries to Tasmania and other islands.
Ride-share platforms can also be a great option for splitting travel costs with other passengers, while guided tours offer an easy way to explore remote areas like the outback without needing to rent a car.
Benefits of travelling without a car
Choosing to travel without a car can be a freeing experience, especially for backpackers or budget-conscious travellers. Instead of worrying about fuel costs, insurance, and maintenance, you can save money by hopping on a bus, train, or shared ride. Plus, you’ll have more time to enjoy the journey.
Skipping car travel also means less stress and fewer hassles. You won’t have to deal with breakdowns, parking, or getting lost on unfamiliar roads. Instead, you can sit back, relax, and take in the scenery, whether you’re on a coastal train route or a long-distance bus ride through the outback.
Another great perk is meeting other travellers or newcomers along the way. It’s much easier to start a conversation with someone on a bus or train than when you’re driving solo. Plus, choosing public transport or shared rides is more eco-friendly, and you will be helping to reduce traffic congestion and lower your carbon footprint.
Public transport and tourist bus services
Embracing bus travel is one of the most straightforward ways to see all corners of Australia without splurging on private transport. Many travellers find bus services especially convenient for exploring the East Coast, from Byron Bay through the Gold Coast and up to Cairns.
City-based public transport
Major hubs like Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide, and Perth each have robust public transport networks, which include:
- Buses, trains, and trams: Melbourne is famous for its extensive tram system, while Perth has a reliable commuter rail.
- Smart ticketing: Cities typically offer electronic cards (e.g. Opal in Sydney, myki in Melbourne, SmartRider in Perth). Tap on and off for a fuss-free way to travel.
- Connections to airports: Most airports in Australia link to city centres via express bus or train lines, saving you on taxi fares.
Intercity bus travel
For cross-country journeys, companies like Greyhound are popular. They typically run an extensive network covering Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia, and beyond:
- Greyhound: Provides comfortable coaches, air-conditioning, and straightforward online booking. Greyhound also offers the Whimit travel pass, which is a flexible hop-on, hop-off ticket that lets you ride unlimited routes within a chosen time frame.
- Public bus routes: In some regions, local or state-run services provide longer routes, such as Transwa in Western Australia.
- Bus route planning: Keep an eye on departure times, as some lines only run once or twice per day, especially in remote areas.
Train travel in Australia
While not as extensive as Europe or parts of Asia, train travel in Australia still offers a unique experience, often going past dramatic landscapes or linking iconic cities.
Major train routes
- Indian Pacific: This legendary train goes from Sydney to Perth, crossing the Blue Mountains and the Nullarbor Plain. It’s a multi-day journey, perfect if you love panoramic views and relaxing onboard.
- The Ghan: Journey from Adelaide through Alice Springs, all the way to Darwin. Along the way, you can choose off-train tours to see places like Kakadu National Park or the desert around Uluru.
- Regional lines: Services like Trainlink in New South Wales connect cities like Sydney, Canberra, and country towns, while the Queensland Rail network links Brisbane, Cairns, and other stops in the Sunshine State.
How to save on train travel
- Advance booking: Long-distance trains often have tiered pricing. If you book earlier, you might find a lower fare.
- One-way vs round trip: Sometimes, you’ll find deals on combining different modes of transport, such as taking a train one way and a bus or flight on the return trip.
- Rail passes: Certain lines provide passes that let you break your journey at multiple stops, offering a flexible approach to exploring.
Air travel in Australia
Covering thousands of kilometres, Australia offers some strategic flights to save time, especially if you’re planning to see both the East Coast and far-off regions like Darwin or Perth. If you’re short on days, flying can help you maximise your holiday.
Domestic flight options
Australia’s domestic flight market includes both budget and full-service carriers:
- Jetstar: A no-frills airline typically offering cheaper fares, though baggage allowances and seat selection may cost extra.
- Qantas: Australia’s flagship airline, offering frequent flights between major cities and regional hubs.
- Virgin Australia: Another popular carrier, with routes going from Adelaide to Cairns and beyond.
If you want to see multiple destinations like Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide in one go, it might be worth checking multi-city flight bookings.
Cost-effective flying tips
Finding a great deal on flights is easier when you know where to look. Keep an eye out for airline sales by signing up for newsletters or following airlines’ social media pages. Many carriers offer big discounts outside of peak holiday seasons.
If you want to find the cheapest option across multiple airlines, comparison sites like Skyscanner or Kayak are your best choice. You’ll be able to see easily which airline offers the best deal, so you don’t have to check each airline individually.
Another tip is to look at smaller airports, like Sunshine Coast Airport near the Gold Coast. Sometimes they have cheaper fares and more direct routes, helping you save both time and money.
Boat and ferry travel in Australia
Surrounded by water, Australia has many different coastal boat services, plus inland ferries that connect remote communities or tourist hotspots.
Coastal and island ferry services
- Tasmania: The Spirit of Tasmania ferry travels between Melbourne and Devonport, letting you bring a bicycle or even a campervan if you end up renting one. This is a scenic overnight journey across the Bass Strait.
- Queensland island ferries: If you’re heading to places like Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays or up near Cairns to explore reef islands, ferries or boat tours are your best bet.
- Perth area: You can board ferries along the Swan River or out to Rottnest Island, famous for quokkas and pristine beaches.
Water travel experiences
- Cruise-liners: Longer journeys may include stops at ports in Darwin or along the West Coast.
- Local commuter ferries: Cities like Sydney or Brisbane have inner-harbour ferry routes that double as scenic tours for a fraction of the price of a private cruise.
Tips for travelling without a car
Going car-free in Australia involves a bit of planning but can free you up from the obligations of a typical road trip. It helps to embrace spontaneity while still ensuring you reach your bucket-list places on time.
Planning your journey
A little planning goes a long way when travelling, especially in remote areas like Western Australia or the Northern Territory, where transport options can be limited. Make sure you check timetables in advance so you don’t miss a bus, train or flight to help you avoid long waits or unexpected detours.
Make the most of travel apps like Google Maps or Rome2Rio, which provide real-time routes and multiple transport options in just a few clicks. These tools help you compare different ways to get from A to B, whether you’re looking for the fastest, cheapest, or most scenic option.
For long distances, you can try to mix and match transport methods to travel efficiently. A great example is flying to Perth from the East Coast, and then using local buses or trains to explore Western Australia’s stunning southwest. If you combine flights with buses or trains, you will be able to cover more ground while still experiencing the beauty of the journey.
Travelling with a disability
If you have mobility challenges, there are several options to help you travel car-free and as smoothly as possible:
- Accessible buses and trains: Larger operators like Greyhound or Queensland Rail often accommodate wheelchairs, but remember to confirm in advance.
- Airport assistance: Airlines can arrange help for boarding, baggage, or seat accessibility. Speak to customer service ahead of time to request assistance.
- City-based accessibility: In places like Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney, many tram and train stations are disability-friendly. Government websites or city council pages frequently detail accessible routes.
Making the most of transit options
Flexible travel passes let you travel at your own pace. Greyhound’s Whimit pass and similar hop-on, hop-off deals let you jump off at scenic spots like Byron Bay or Cairns and continue your journey whenever you’re ready. It’s a hassle-free way to explore without committing to strict schedules.
For more off-the-beaten-path adventures, rideshares or group tours are a great way to visit remote locations like Kakadu National Park, where public transport is limited.
Many hostels have notice boards where travellers post shared lifts or campervan seats in exchange for a small fuel contribution, making it budget-friendly and a great way to meet new people. Whether by bus, rideshare, or group tour, travelling this way helps you enjoy exploring your new home.
FAQs
Can I get around Australia without a car?
Yes. You can easily travel to Australia with no car by using public transport, Greyhound coaches, scenic trains, domestic flights, and even ferries. Planning your itinerary helps ensure you can fit everything in, especially across long distances, without feeling rushed.
What is the cheapest way to travel around Australia?
Often, the cheapest method is a combination of bus travel and occasional budget flights. Bus passes like Whimit can be cost-effective, letting you explore the East Coast or beyond on a flexible schedule. Another low-cost tip is to monitor flight sales and consider hostel or backpacker deals along the way.
How do tourists get around in Australia?
Tourists use a mix of local transport like city trams, long-distance buses, trains, and short or one-way flights between big destinations such as Adelaide and Darwin. Many also join organised tours for remote areas, so they can visit national parks without renting a car.
Can you take a train around Australia?
While the train network isn’t as dense as in some other countries, iconic routes like The Ghan (Adelaide to Alice Springs and on to Darwin) and the Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth) offer amazing cross-continental experiences. Regional trains also connect cities like Brisbane to Cairns or Sydney to towns in New South Wales, so train lovers have plenty of options.