Australia, a land of golden beaches, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes. I recently spent a month Down Under visiting my sister, and it was an unforgettable experience. If you’re planning a trip to Australia, here’s some things you need to know to make the most of your adventure, from top travel tips to must visit locations.

1. Beating Jet Lag
The journey to Australia is long, and jet lag can be brutal if you don’t prepare properly. The trick? Manage your sleep strategically. On the way over and back, avoid oversleeping on the shorter flight so you’ll be exhausted enough for the long 15-hour leg. Try to stay awake until after the first big meal on the plane, this ensures you eat before sleeping and won’t wake up starving mid-flight. If you’re a reader, pack multiple books; I usually only read on holidays, but I read two books just on the journey over!

2. Forget Cash, Use Revolut
One of the biggest surprises was how little cash we needed. Everywhere in Australia accepts card payments, so just ensure your Revolut is topped up. It makes spending seamless, and you don’t have to worry about carrying cash.

3. Make Use of Public Transport
Public transport in Australia is efficient and affordable. You don’t even need a travel card - simply tap your Revolut on and off buses and trains. Each journey costs roughly $1, making it one of the best ways to save money while exploring the city.

4. Plan Your Itinerary in Advance
Australia has an overwhelming amount of things to do. To avoid missing out, I highly recommend creating a detailed itinerary before your trip. Prioritise must-visit spots and key experiences so you don’t leave with regrets.

5. Pack Light & Smart
For a month-long trip, you won’t be able to pack enough outfits. Make sure your accommodation has washing and drying facilities. The key to packing? Lightweight clothes, particularly sportswear - most young Aussies and Irish wear activewear daily. Also, leave some space in your suitcase; Australian fashion brands are top-tier, and you’ll likely want to bring some pieces home.

6. Track Your Costs
While we didn’t do this ourselves, an Excel sheet would be a great way to keep track of spending. Australia isn’t the cheapest destination, so having a budget breakdown can help you manage your expenses better.

1. Coogee Beach at Sunrise
There’s no better way to start the day than watching the sunrise at Coogee Beach, followed by a matcha from Eccentric and an açai bowl from Melon Head. We made this a regular morning ritual during our stay.

2. Airlie Beach & The Whitsundays
A 5-day trip to the Whitsundays was the standout experience of our trip. A short flight from Sydney, Airlie Beach serves as the gateway to some of the most stunning spots in Australia. Highlights include:

A boat trip to Whitehaven Beach - home to the purest white sand in the world

A day trip to Hamilton Island - renting a golf buggy to explore was an absolute highlight.

3. Manly Beach & Scenic Ferry Ride
Manly Beach is one of Sydney’s best coastal escapes. The ferry ride from the CBD (city) offers unbeatable views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Once you arrive, soak up the relaxed beachside atmosphere, go for a swim, or grab a coffee from one of the many cafés.

4. A Visit to The Doss House
For a taste of home, The Doss House in Sydney is the place to be. This Irish bar offers incredible drinks, live traditional music, and an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and lively.

5. Swimming in Mahon Pools & Wylie's Baths
If you love natural rock pools, you can’t miss Mahon Pools and Wylie’s Baths. The stunning ocean views and refreshing swims make them perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

6. Foodie Heaven: Sydney’s Best Restaurants
Sydney’s food scene is next level. Some of my favourite spots included:

The Society (Italian) – Authentic pasta and incredible wine.

Thai Riffic in Randwick – Some of the best Thai food I’ve ever had.

Shea’s Irish Pub – Perfect for delicious traditional dishes from home.

The Dog in Randwick – The best of pub grub with a great atmosphere.

Countless coffee shops and brunch spots - Sydney does café culture exceptionally well.

Australia is a country that truly has it all - breathtaking beaches, vibrant cities, and an endless list of activities. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a month-long adventure, following these travel tips and recommendations will help you make the most of your time Down Under.

If you’re thinking about visiting, start planning now - you won’t regret it!