Study Abroad Strategies: How to See Australia on a Budget

Options for public transportation in Australia

Coming to the University of Melbourne with IFSA, I knew I wanted to travel without spending hundreds of dollars. After researching transportation passes in Australia, I found three options: the Queensland Pass, the Queensland Coastal Pass, and the Discovery Pass. Since I was based in Melbourne, the Discovery Pass provided the best opportunities for traveling across Australia.

I purchased the six-month NSW Discovery Travel Pass for $420 AUD, about $270 USD at the time. This pass provides access to plenty of New South Wales buses and trains, allowing travel to major cities, such as Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Gold Coast.

More flexibility to travel on a whim

A train pass gives you flexibility. Reservations can be made in as little as 24 hours in advance, so you can make sure you don’t have a ton of assignments or exams the following week before you make plans. Plus, you can go anywhere on a whim. Journeys can be long. I opted for night trains to save money on hotels, arriving in the morning to start my adventure. The train also gives you time to study and do assignments as you travel.

This pass took me to Sydney (three times), Albury Wodonga, Canberra, Kootamomba, Wollongong, Newcastle, and Wagga Wagga, and the savings added up. The grand total for my train travels throughout Australia came to $984.15 USD, $564.15 less than purchasing individual tickets.

If you’re bound for Australia and want to travel, considering look into these passes, checking current pricing and offers, and comparing your options!

Zach D. | Skidmore College | University of Melbourne Partnership | Spring 2025