Articles

Creating a Travel Budget in Australia

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:58:00 GMT

Travelling around Australia can be a fantastic way to spend your holidays, but it can also be quite expensive. If you hope to be able to travel for a long time, it’s important that you come up with a budget that’s realistic and that you can stick to. Your finances can quite easily make or break your trip, so if you’re travelling to Australia, keep the following items in mind when creating your Aussie travel budget.

Food

If you want to be able to travel for long, you may have to start getting used to smaller or less frequent meals. Working in the food or hospitality industry can save you a lot of money, and buying your own groceries and cooking your own food will save you a small fortune compared to eating out all the time.

Accommodation

The biggest expense most people have when travelling is their accommodation costs, so if you want to extend your holiday for as long as possible, avoid the larger cities and tourist hotspots. When it comes to the bigger cities, though, staying in hostels in Sydney and Melbourne can save you a fortune, with city central backpackers in Sydney one of the many fantastic options. If you have your own tent, you can camp in many parts of Australia for free, especially in Tasmania, so be sure to take advantage of this beautiful and cheap accommodation option. WWOOFing can also be a fantastic way to save money while enjoying a new experience, and you could potentially stay for free throughout your entire trip.

Alcohol

Even though you’ll definitely want to hit the bars and clubs wherever you may be, if you want your travel budget to hold up you’re best to put some limits on your pub and club expenditure. Consider buying your alcohol from the bottle shop and drinking at the hostel instead, as these nights can often prove more fun than the clubs anyway.

Sunscreen

Make sure you have money in your budget for sunscreen, as it is quite expensive and is not an item that you should go without.

Sport

You really should go to a major sporting event at some point during your visit to Australia, as sport is huge here and a big part of Australian culture. Attending a sporting event can cost a pretty penny, so pick one main one and budget for it in your travel budget.

Gambling

Australians are known for enjoying an occasional spot of gambling, and while most Aussies rarely if ever gamble, occasionally gambling becomes a big deal Down Under. If you’re in Australia on the first Tuesday of November for the Melbourne Cup, pretty much everyone will be putting on a bet, so if you want to partake in a great Australian tradition, include some gambling money in your budget.

Like any holiday, if you want your trip to Australia to have all the bells and whistles, you may not be able to afford to go for long. Make sure your travel budget is ready for the kind of trip you hope to have, as it would be sad to come all this way and not have enough money to do everything you were hoping to.

Why Snail Mail is a Thoughtful Way to Stay in Touch

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:04:00 GMT

While many people might have ditched the pen and paper, something still has to be said for the traditional ways of keeping in touch. Snail mail is not only more romantic, but is also requires more effort which is something certainly acknowledged by the receiver. So if you are sitting in one of the Sydney hostels right now about to write an email to your boyfriend or girlfriend back home, consider instead picking up a piece of paper and pen after reading these points:

The tangible nature of mail: Receiving mail from someone is very different to receiving an email. A letter can be felt, touched, smelt and kept. While an email can be kept in a folder in your email account for safe keeping, it’s really not the same thing.
Your handwriting is unique to you, so in each letter you write your personality shines through: Unlike with a typed email, the way we write is a reflection of our feelings and our personalities. When people read a hand written letter that’s from someone they love, it gives a stronger feeling of being there with them than if they were to receive an email.
It shows your dedication and effort: Hand writing a letter and sending it takes far more effort than sending an email. This makes it valued higher in the eyes of the receiver and can become almost like a special keepsake from you they can treasure.
For romantics, hand written letters are always best: If you have a girlfriend back home that’s a hopeless romantic, sending her a hand-written letter will certainly make her swoon. Unlike an email, it’s something she can keep under her pillow or fold and put in her wallet.
It can have a distinct smell: If you are away from your boyfriend for some time a letter with your fragrance sprayed onto it can be just the thing to make him long for you even more. Smell is an important sense and can transport us to past memories and loved ones. Spraying fragrance on your letter can remind your boyfriend of you and long for your smell.
The anticipation of receiving something in the mail: Receiving something (apart from a bill) in the mail is exciting. It’s not like receiving a new email and is much more of an exciting experience for different reasons.

If you have been staying in one of the best backpackers Sydney has to offer tourists and are in need of getting in contact with your nearest and dearest back home, consider writing them a letter rather than sending them an email. Choose the paper carefully and write using a quality pen. Once you’ve written and sent the letter you could send them a quick email letting them know to expect something from you soon in the post. Guaranteed they’ll love the thought and sentiment behind a hand written letter from yours truly and will be excited to receive your letter in the mail when it arrives.

5 Tips for Watching the Mardi Gras in Sydney

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:04:00 GMT

During the Mardi Gras Festival, Sydney comes alive. If you are staying at one of the Sydney hostels right in the CBD you’ll be able to simply take a short stroll to see the parade. Not sure how you want to celebrate the Mardi Gras festival? We’ve got the best tips for making sure you have a day and night to remember:

Events and after parties

If you really want to join in the celebrations and live it up during the Mardi Gras Festival, it’s advisable that you purchase tickets to an event. You can buy tickets that will offer premium viewing seats from great vantage points as well as providing you with bar access on the night, without you having to worry about losing your spot. After parties are also popular and are organised at different venues across the city. It’s a good idea to buy tickets to these events in advance as they can sell out.

Watching the parade from the street

If you want to watch the parade from the street you’ll need to:

Set up and find your spot early
Have seating with you so you don’t have to stand until the parade starts
Carry snacks and drinks

Make a day of it with friends and enjoy the festivities and atmosphere of the city as everyone prepares for the parade. The only thing to take notice of here is you will have to get in early if you want to get a good spot to view the parade from.

Dress to impress

The Mardi Gras is certainly one time of year when people can roam Sydney’s streets dressed up however they like! Get into the theme and wear a brightly coloured wig or a sexy costume.

List of events leading up to the parade

The Mardi Gras Festival used to be solely made up of the parade, but now it’s extended into fetes and all sorts of events leading up to the parade. Go online and find out about other activities and free events that are on that you may want to attend.

Choosing the right accommodation

There’s nothing better than having a big night out and being able to stumble back to your hostel when you want to call it a night. Many of the backpackers Sydney has to offer tourists are located right in the heart of the CBD, and only a short stroll to vantage points of the Mardi Gras Parade. Finding a taxi during one of the city’s busiest nights of the year will be difficult, so being able to walk back to where you are staying will not only save you money, but it’s way more convenient as well.

The Sydney Mardi Gras is something that has to be experienced. Over the years it has grown, attracting attention from people across the globe. If you want to experience something truly unique, the Mardi Gras is a wonderful festival, that’s more like a street party where every one’s invited, bringing people from all over the world together to celebrate equality.

Preparing Yourself For a Change in Seasons

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:03:00 GMT

When we are talking about preparing oneself for a change in seasons in relation to Australian weather, we are really referring to how to deal with the stinking hot heat that sometimes dominates our country during the warmer months of the year. Many people find it hard to cope with the heat, but there are some things that you can do to ensure you’re well equipped for the scorching summer. Whether you are staying at one of the Sydney hostels located right in the heart of the CBD or you are travelling around country NSW, we’ve got some important tips you don’t want to miss:

The right clothing

As the weather heats up, you need to be prepared with clothing that’s breathable. Cotton is a great fabric because it breathes, is easy to wash and perfect for keeping you protected from the sun. You want to have a good amount of singlets, tops, shorts and skirts. Don’t forget a cardigan or two, you can get the odd cool spell and not having something to keep you warm can end in getting a cold (Rather a grandma thing to say, but we all know it’s true).

Protection from the sun

In no way is being rock lobster burnt fun. Not being able to move for half of your trip means spending plenty of time in your room, doing, well, not much. Make sure that when you go to the beach you:

Apply sunscreen every few hours
Wear a hat
Sit under shade when possible
Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water (Sitting in the sun can really take it’s toll on the body, not just your skin. Heat stroke can often make you fee sick, so keeping hydrated and cool is important).

Fake tan it

If you won’t be able to resist tanning your body at the beach, buy some quality fake tan and use it before you go. You’ll look nice and glowing and won’t have to sacrifice your skin to achieve the look you want.

Treat burns immediately

Treating burns as soon as they appear can dramatically reduce the time they take to heal. As soon as you notice your skin reddening, use Aloe Vera gel to soothe and cool the skin. This can be purchased from any chemist or even the supermarket and is a great product to use on sunburn.

For many backpackers Sydney is a favourite place to visit, and it’s not hard to see why. But there are some important things to consider when visiting some of the world’s most famous beaches and enjoying a staple diet of battered fish and chips. As long as you take all of the above factors into consideration you’ll be well prepared for everything summer has to throw at you, and you won’t waste one day laying in bed afraid to move, caused by severe sunburn or heat stroke.

Spending New Years Far From Home

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:03:00 GMT

Spending new years eve abroad for the first time can be a little overwhelming. You’re in a new place, without your family and close friends, and you can start to miss them a little if you don’t have plenty to keep you occupied. From ensuring you make friends with the right people while you are staying in Sydney hostels to finding the right event for new years eve you’ll thoroughly enjoy, we’ve got some great tips for ringing in the new year when you’re far from home:

Stay in touch with family and friends

You’ll want to wish your family and friends a happy new year so make sure you do by having credit on your phone so you can call them either new years eve or new years day. Probably better to call them well before the merry-making begins, or leave it until the next day. No good wishing them a happy new year right on midnight your time when you could be waking them up back home and perhaps even having a full length conversation with them that you won’t remember the next day.

Make new friends

When staying in hostels you are bound to meet heaps of people who like you, are spending their new years eve far away from home. Meeting people you get along with will ensure that if you do want to go out on new years eve you’ll have people to party with regardless of where you go and of course it must be noted, it’s always safer to party in numbers.

Know your way around

You may find that you can make your way back at 3am back home no worries, even after you’d had, shall we say, a few too many beverages. But if you’re in a completely new place, navigating your way around can be hard enough without the added extra few thousand people and road closures making it impossible to know how to get home. So, know where your new years eve event is and plan how you will get back to the hostel well before the night begins.

Finding a great event to attend

The best accommodation for backpackers Sydney has to offer tourists will always have staff that are more than happy to help you find out what’s going on nearby on new years eve. Sometimes it’s a great idea to go on a backpackers cruise with other tourists who are staying at the same hostel as you. There are so many different packages and options to explore, it’s just a matter of asking around, looking online and checking out a range of options before making a final decision on where to spend your night. Ultimately, you just want to have a good time and ring in the new year having fun!

Spending new years eve in a completely new country is a wonderful experience. As long as you surround yourself with great people and have a fabulous event to look forward to you’ll find that not only will it be enjoyable, but it will make for a night you’ll never forget!

6 Tips for Keeping Your New Years Resolutions this Year

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:24:00 GMT

It’s that time of year again, when Christmas is over and it’s time to ring in the new year. You are sitting in one of the best backpackers Sydney has to offer and are contemplating what resolutions you should be setting for yourself this year. Worried you are making promises to yourself you can’t keep? Check out our list of tips for making new years resolutions, and sticking to them:

Be Realistic

You need to be realistic in your resolutions. If you want to make a dramatic change, then give yourself milestones throughout the year to work towards. For instance, you can’t just say you are going to quit smoking and then go cold turkey new years day. It needs to be gradual.

Give Yourself the Tools

You need to give yourself the tools required to make your resolutions happen. For instance, find out ways for managing your cravings for cigarettes, or if you want to loose those extra 5 kilos you put on over Christmas, then get yourself a gym membership. Make a list of what you need to do, in order to keep your resolution to yourself.

A Few at a Time

If you make the mistake of having too many resolutions, it’s no wonder they are so difficult to keep. Aim to only have a few so that you can really focus on them. If your attention is on too many, it may feel overwhelming and you wont get a handle on any of them.

Don’t Beat Yourself Up

You’re only human so try not to be so hard on yourself if you aren’t able to make your resolutions come true. Instead, focus on the positives, if you were able to make any changes at all, that’s great. Besides, there is always next year!

Don’t Make Resolutions You Can’t Keep

You’ll be setting yourself up to fail if your new years resolution is to stop drinking and the next three months you will be crossing the country partying with your friends. If your new years resolutions are like this, change them a little. Instead of eliminating things, minimise them. For instance if you’re likely to eat a block of chocolate in one sitting, aim to only eat one row.

Let Your Friends Know

You’re sharing your room in one of the best Sydney hostels on your stay with your besties. Let them know of your intentions in the new year. Whether that be to exercise more, go sky-diving or lose weight, if you let those around you know what you are doing, they can really help to support you, and give you the assistance you need to reach your goals so that this time next year, you’ll be feeling pretty proud with what you’ve achieved.

It’s all about making realistic promises and taking baby steps to make your resolutions come true. If you stay focused on the end result and take the above points into consideration, you’ll know doubt have something to be very proud of, this time next year.

Top 9 Aussie Gift Ideas to Send Back Home

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:22:00 GMT

It can be tough spending Christmas abroad not only for you, but for your family. So why not send everyone a Christmas gift they’ll never forget? Once you’ve settled in to one of the best Backpackers Sydney has to offer and have rid yourself of jet lag, it’s time to write that Christmas list and hit the pavement. Want some perfect gift ideas? Check these out:

Ugg Boots

If you want to give your relatives back home something they can really use during the Christmas season, why not buy them a pair of authentic Aussie Ugg Boots? They are not only iconically Australian, but they are super comfy, warm and perfect for those back home who are experiencing cold Christmas weather.

A Pair of Thongs

A great pair of thongs always makes a great gift and whether or not it’s warm or cold back home, they will eventually get used. For an added touch, buy a pair that has the Australian flag painted on-they’ll love it!

For Those Who Love to Cook

Have an aunt or perhaps your mum loves to cook? Then why not buy here a cookbook of authentic Aussie Christmas dishes? It’s something different that she can keep and even try out this year for something different.

A Stubby Holder

Beer drinking is synonymous with Aussie culture. So it stands to reason that nothing says ‘Merry Christmas from Australia’ than a stubby holder. There are so many designs and styles you can get to, so you can buy a different one for each male member of your family.

Calendar with Australian Landscapes

There are plenty of artists and photographers that turn their images into 12 month calendars for admirers to purchase. A calendar is always a useful gift so why not hunt around for one that has a number of shots or images of places you’ve been? The perfect gift for mum or grandma.

Plush Toy for the Little Ones

Are there a few little kids back home that may or may not be waiting by the letter box for a gift from yours truly? If so, why not post them a plush toy of their favourite Australian animal? This is guaranteed to be well received.

There are so many great gift ideas, that there is simply not enough room to fit them all. Here are a few more we’ll throw in for good measure:

A cork hat- great for those who love a good laugh
Akubra hat- An authentic Australian hat for a more serious gift
A t-shirt from one of Sydney’s landmarks such as the Harbour Bridge, Opera House or even Bondi Beach

Whether you’re spending most of your money on staying in one of the best Sydney hostels and are working to a tight budget, or you have the money to spend and just don’t know what to buy, I hope our list of ideas has given you some useful suggestions for just what to get those important to you back home this Christmas.

5 Tips for Having a Ripper Aussie Christmas

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:18:00 GMT

So you’ve booked yourself accommodation in one of the best Backpackers Sydney has to offer and are ready for a ripper Aussie Christmas. But what actually constitutes a ‘ripper Aussie Christmas’ I hear you say? Find out here:

Feasting On All the Right Foods

In order to have a great Australian Christmas, you have to start off by eating the right foods. Here are some of the traditional Aussie offerings that you can expect to have in any home across the country on Christmas:

A selection of cold meats - ham especially
Barbecue Chicken
Prawns, oysters and other seafood
Some Aussie’s opt for a BBQ, which would include steaks, sausages and seafood
Salads such as coleslaw
Sometimes families will still have a roast turkey or leg of lamb, but this might be reserved for dinner time
Christmas desserts-Traditionally pavlova, trifle, Summer pudding, Christmas Cake

Of course all of these delicious foods are usually washed down with a few bottles of beer, a glass of champers, wine or even soft drink.

Spending the Day Outdoors

Australian Christmas’s are hot! So forget sitting by the fire this year. Try to plan to get outside by either going to the beach, enjoying some sport with friends at a park in the afternoon, or having a picnic lunch outdoors.

Do Your Preparation

Because shops are closed on Christmas, you need to make sure that if you are buying food items to feast on, you purchase them on Christmas eve. If you are going to a catered event, then there’s no need to worry.

Choosing the Right Christmas Day Event

If you are thinking about buying tickets to an event which incorporates everything from food, drinks to entertainment, it’s a good idea to look around and do some searching online. You want to find the best deal that will suit you. There are plenty of cruises on Sydney Harbour too if you want to go all out. Ultimately, there are just so many great places to spend Christmas you might be hard pressed to make a decision!

If you are spending Christmas in Sydney and you will be looking for tickets to an event, start looking as early as possible.

Underneath the Christmas Tree

So you’ve got a great bunch of mates together who you will be spending the day with. You’ve researched the best Sydney hostels and your accommodation is all booked. But what about the gifts for Christmas day? While you will all be wanting to save some money to enjoy your trip, it shouldn’t mean you should miss out on presents. Here’s a great idea:

Organise a Secret Santa or Kris Kringle
Firstly write down the name’s of everyone who you will be spending Christmas Day with. Write these names on separate pieces of paper.
Have everyone draw a name out of a hat (if they draw their own name, they have to choose again).
Whoever you get, you have to buy a gift for.
Set a limit, for example $20.
If you like, give the gifts a theme, ‘Aussie Christmas’ for example. Great gift ideas could include a pair of thongs, a wife beater singlet, a stubby holder, straw hat, sunscreen- the possibilities are endless!

So there you have it. Your complete guide to having a ripper Aussie Christmas. Have a wonderful festive season on your trip down under and of course, don’t forget the sunscreen!

Having a Great, Budget New Years Eve in Sydney

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:15:00 GMT

New years eve is a great time to live it up and party with friends. Many people think that they need to spend hundreds of dollars in order to have a great new years eve, but this is just not true. Whether you are staying in one of the best Backpackers Sydney has to offer, or are just needing to budget a little more this time of year, we’ve got some great suggestions for livin’ it up on new years eve, without it costing you a fortune:

Free Entertainment is Everywhere

The city of Sydney is well known for it’s spectacular fireworks displays which are scheduled throughout the night. Sydney hosts her very own party, through the streets of the city, so you don’t need to worry about finding a venue to go to for the night if you don’t have the money to spend. With the right people with you, you can have the best new years eve ever, with the most spectacular entertainment that’s completely free!

Backpacker Special Offers

Backpackers can always expect a number of great special offers for all of the important days/nights of the year, and new years eve is no exception. From backpacker new years party cruises to specials on dinner and drinks packages, it’s just a matter of asking around and getting to know the best places that offer the right deals for you. Use your backpacker status for all it’s worth and it could save you hundreds!

Plan Ahead

One important thing to remember, no matter how you decide to spend your night, is to plan ahead. The best spots for viewing the Sydney fireworks fill up fast so making a day of it, by the water on new years eve is a great idea and will ensure you and your friends have the best vantage point to see the fireworks in Sydney.

You’ll want to make sure you have these things with you, if you do decide to make a day of it:

Sunscreen- you don’t want to ring in the new year looking like a lobster.
Water- you don’t want to dehydrate and have to go home sick because you didn’t have enough water during the day.
Comfortable shoes- You may be on your feet for a while. There’s no point in looking great in a pair of heels if you need the jaws of life to get them off at the end of the night.

For those of you who are on the look out for a backpacker new years eve event, it’s a good idea to buy your tickets as early as possible. Events sell out, especially the best and most value for money.

The best Sydney hostels will always have helpful staff, that will be more than happy to help you with suggestions for how to spend your new years eve. They should have some great ideas and be able to point you in the direction of the best events available too.

Budget Beauty Backpacker Tips

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 08:10:00 GMT

You don’t have to be a beauty queen or labelled a diva just because you miss having long relaxing baths and going to the salon on a regular basis to have your hair done. If you are staying in one of the Sydney hostels and call yourself a backpacker, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have everything you need to take care of yourself. Here, we’ve outlined some great budget beauty backpacker tips you don’t want to miss:

Your essentials

There are a few things you should carry with you while you’re travelling at all times:

Dry shampoo-In case you can’t wash your hair for a few days, it doesn’t have to look like it.
Moisturiser- Always carry moisturiser with you. It can act as a makeup remover and will ward off dry skin on elbows and knees and everywhere else to keep you looking fresh and hydrated. Better still, you can buy a massive bottle for only a few dollars.

Drink plenty of water

When you’re dehydrated on the inside it shows on the outside. Drinking water can help lift your skin, filter out bacteria that causes acne and keep your skin looking plump. Of course, water is free, so drink up!

Cheap and free Hair cuts and colours

Sydney is full of salons and hair styling schools that are always looking for models to work with. All you have to do is sit pretty and let the student be heavily guided by a senior professional as they work on your hair. You can get everything from foils to semi-permanent colours this way to. Often it’s free and when you do have to pay, its always just a minimal fee for the colour used.

Home made face masks

All the best organic skin products are made from ingredients you can find in your kitchen cupboard and fridge at home. Why not do some experimenting and see what you can come up with? Of course, go online and do some research first, then ask the girls in the room next door if they’d like to join you for an afternoon of all natural home made pampering! There are also some fabulous hair treatment recipes to be found online too.

Manicures and pedicures

Just as you can have your hair cut and coloured by a student under the guidance of a senior stylist, you can also have your nails done at a beauty school for free, or next to nothing. It’s just a matter of finding these places as they tend to be harder to pin down than hair schools but they do exist and are wonderful if you’re on a tight budget and still like the idea of having your nails done every now and then.

When you are staying in even the best backpackers Sydney has to offer, it’s still important that you count your pennies and budget where necessary. But it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to completely miss out on the finer things in life either. I hope our list of tips has given you some useful suggestions for giving yourself the pampering you deserve, whilst living on a backpackers budget in Sydney.

Free Entertainment is Everywhere in Sydney

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Sydney is full of great ways to keep yourself entertained. When you are staying at one of the Sydney hostels and are travelling on the cheap, it doesn’t mean even for a second, that you can experience Sydney in all her glory. Here we’ve outlined some of the best ways to get out and amongst it, without spending anything or very little:

Art galleries and museums

Sydney has a wonderful art scene. Apart from the two major art galleries the MCA and the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the city is littered with smaller studio spaces and ‘hole in the wall’ art spaces. Many of these are free to check out and even the bigger galleries always have a number of free events you can read about on their website. Sydney’s museums are also the same, offering something fascinating to check out and enjoy, for free. For a full list of the exhibitions that are running and which ones are free to visit, go online and visit their official websites.

Live music venues

Sydney has a number of live music venues that you can attend and watch fresh local talent for only a $10 cover charge. Some venues even have nights (usually Fridays) where there is no entry fee at all and local bands play into the wee hours. What better way to immerse yourself in Sydney culture than by listening to it’s local musos?

Festivals and markets

Sydney has a number of festivals throughout the year. These are marked with a number of free live events right across the CBD. Generally in the warmer months, these festivals are free to attend and offer entertainment that’s suitable for young and old.

Sydney has some wonderful weekend markets in a number of locations including Glebe, Paddington and the Rocks area. Checking out the local wares of designers and artists alike is the perfect way to spend a hot summer afternoon in Sydney.

Beaches and National Parks

As you’d already know, Sydney is home to some of the countries most beautiful and well-known beaches. Swimming and frolicking in the surf after enjoying some time relaxing in the sun with a good book costs next to nothing yet is the epitome of the perfect Aussie day spent at the beach.

Consider yourself the adventurous type? Why not grab some friends and head to one of the National parks for a hike or a bush walk? There’s rarely only a small entry fee and you can take some fabulous shots of the Australian bush to show your friends and family back home while you’re there...

When you are staying at the best backpackers Sydney has to offer you can rest assured knowing that you won’t be the only one wanting to scope the town for some great, cheap entertainment options. When you do find something, share the love. You’ll find that if a few of you do your research, you’ll all end up with some great suggestions for free or cheap entertainment options to enjoy in Sydney.

How to Live Off Sydney's Best Cheap Eats

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 07:39:00 GMT

There’s nothing worse than feeling the pinch when you’re travelling and having to cut back on your food allowance. If you are staying at one of the best Sydney hostels then you’re certainly not alone in your quest for delicious and nutritious cheap Sydney eats. Here, we uncover some of the smartest ways to get a full stomach, for less:

Tight Ass Tuesdays

One thing you need to know about is tight ass Tuesdays. Pretty much all pubs and restaurants will have some sort of meal special on a Tuesday. Some better than others. Movies are also cheaper on a Tuesday. Do the rounds to find out which Tuesday offering is best and make sure you squeeze Tuesdays for all the food it’s worth!

Backpacker meal deals

It’s no secret that Sydney is well known as being a city that backpackers love to visit. This means that there are plenty of places that target backpackers providing cheap booze and even cheaper meals, for as little as $3! Ask the people working at the hostel where these places are. Take advantage of the fact that you’re a backpacker and can get some great discounts because of your travel status.

Closing time

A great way to get a cheap, delicious meal is to hang around the food court in one of the major shopping malls in the city and wait until they are closing. Their food is still fresh and is reduced by up to half price. Everything from Chinese food to traditional roasts with all the trimmings are often on the table for no more than $5 a serve.

Use coupons

Coupons are your best friends. They can get you two coffees for the price of one and 50% off your next meal at the local pizzeria. Don’t throw out your grocery shopping dockets, instead scan them for special deals.

Buy a cheap eats guide

Uncovering the cheapest and best value meal deals in the city can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. There are plenty of cheap eats guides that will help you on your quest to save money and stay full. They can tell you everything from where to buy the best over-sized baguette to the best little places in Chinatown to visit.

Ask other travellers

Another way to find some great places to eat nearby is to ask some fellow travellers who may have been staying in Sydney for longer than yourself. Backpackers, as you’d know, are great at seeking out bargains so someone is sure to have some great places for you to try out.

When you are staying in the best backpackers Sydney has to offer and are trying to make sure your daily food allowance doesn’t leave you with hunger pangs, there are a few things you can do to make your money go the distance. From cheap eats guides to Tuesday specials there’s plenty of cheap chow to go round for everyone!

Great Ways to Keep in Touch that Won't Break the Bank

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 07:32:00 GMT

It can be difficult when you’re travelling to keep in touch with everyone back home. And while you’re staying in Sydney hostels and doing what you can to go the distance without breaking the budget, getting in touch can often lead to a blow out. But this doesn’t necessarily have to happen, as long as you know how to keep in touch, the cost free way. Here we’ve got a great list of ideas for keeping the family happy without constantly having to go out and buy international calling cards:

Skype

Skype has many benefits to it and is something that all travellers should be aware of. Not only can you use it to make calls over the Internet for free, but you can also video conference so you can watch your little niece grow as you travel the world. If you know that you’re going to get homesick and seeing your family like this will be important while you’re away, make sure that they too know how to use it.

Snail mail

You shouldn’t turn your nose up at snail mail. In fact, if you have a sweetheart back home, writing her letters while you’re overseas or sending her postcards is so much more romantic than writing her an email. Better yet, postcards are only $1 or so and cost hardly anything to send!

Email

Of course, sending emails is a fast, instant way to let mum, dad and the whole crew know you’re doing fine. Once again it’s important however that if your parents or other relatives you want to keep in touch with don’t have an email address or know how to use one that you set one up for them and teach them how to use it before you leave for your trip.

Shop around for the best international calling deals

There’s no point in going with the first calling card you see. Do your research to find one that best suits your needs and provides you with the cheapest rates so when you do need to make that call to double check mum received her birthday card you can do so knowing you aren’t being charged your complete food budget allowance for the day in just a few minutes.

Blog

Setting up a blog is a fast, time efficient way to keep everyone up to date on your whereabouts and what you have been doing. You can post links to the best backpackers Sydney has to offer to let them know where you are staying and you can post all of your holiday snaps of the harbour and the Botanical Gardens for everyone to enjoy. Rather than having to send everyone a separate update, this is a wonderful thing to have so people can simply visit your blog when they want to know what’s been going on with you.

There are plenty of great ways to keep in touch without breaking the bank. I hope our list of tips has given you some useful suggestions for checking in with your family and friends every now and then, without spending too much.

Protecting Yourself from the Harsh Aussie Sun

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 07:23:00 GMT

The Australian sun is well know for being a bit rough on the epidermis and if you aren’t used to stinking hot days and hot rays that can literally cause damage to your skin within a matter of minutes, then you need to read these important sun smart tips. Whether you’ve just moved in to one of the popular Sydney hostels or have already regretfully had a run in with the sun and are feeling the after effects, it’s never too late to apply these important rules to your outdoor regime:

Wear sunscreen

While tans can admittedly look hot, being burnt and blistered is definitely not hot. Considering you can now get a tan in a bottle or tube for only a few dollars, it doesn’t make sense to roast your skin by laying in the hot sun doing permanent damage that will make you look well beyond your years. This is why it is so important that when you go outside, you always wear sunscreen. If you are going swimming or will be outdoors for a lengthy period of time, regularly reapply the sunscreen every few hours to ensure you’re protected.

Wear a hat

It doesn’t have to be a dorky looking thing you brought over from home, but your hat should cover your face and ears, as well as your neck, so the wide brimmed variety is preferred. Whether you are bush walking, going to the beach or having a picnic it doesn’t matter how much sunscreen you wear, a hat is a must. You also need to consider your head and scalp which is not protected from the sun, should you decide to not wear a hat.

Light clothing that protects you from the sun

Sometimes it’s a good idea to wear a top with sleeves so that if you do end up sweating off your sunscreen, at least your shoulders are protected. Wearing light cotton fabrics that are protective yet breathe and feel light are another easy way to protect yourself from the sun.

Seek shade

If you don’t have sunscreen on or any protective clothing over the sensitive areas of your skin, then it’s really important that you seek shade. A bad burn can really make your stay in Sydney uncomfortable and can ensure everything from showering to sleeping is a painful nightmare.

Sunglasses

Your eyes should also be shielded from the harsh rays of the sun. Make sure that you bring with you appropriate UV protection sunglasses that you can wear when you’re out and about or at the beach. Squinting can give you wrinkles and excessive exposure is simple not good for your eyes or the sensitive skin around them.

Whether this is your first time staying in one of the best Backpackers Sydney has to offer or you’ve visited many times before, there’s simply no excuse for not taking care of your skin. While the hot sun makes Australian summers ideal for beach parties and BBQ’s, it also means that people need to take care of themselves and ensure that they do everything possible to shield their skin from the sun.

Great Souvenirs to Bring Back for the Family

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 07:16:00 GMT

Youv’e had a great time staying in one of the best Sydney hostels and now it’s time to head back home. You’re packed, you’re all set, you just need to purchase some souvenirs for your friends and family members back home. First things first, step away from the tea towel. We’ve got the best list of gift ideas your loved ones will really enjoy:

Bondi Beach T-shirts and hoodies

Bondi Beach is one of Sydney’s most iconic places and a favourite for most tourists. That’s why a Bondi Beach T-shirt or hoodie is just the thing for young friends and family members back home. Unlike those Aussie socks you’ve been eyeing off, this is something they really will wear and enjoy receiving. Bondi Beach Lifesaver merchandise is also a favourite.

Thongs

Aussies love their thongs. They live in them most of the year. That’s what makes them such a perfect souvenir. For an added touch, purchase ones that have the Australian flag printed on them.

Cork Hat

For those who love a good long laugh, then a cork hat is the ideal souvenir. Designed to keep the flies away, this hat will no doubt elicit fits of laughter when you pull it out and the person who receives it, is sure to appreciate the gesture.

Akubra hat

Iconically Australian, the Akubra hat is something that is synonymous with Australian culture. Whether you want to invest in one for yourself or as a souvenir to give to someone special back home, this hat is well worth the investment and really does make an ideal gift.

Jewellery

While we are on the topic of extra special people back home, we might as well touch on jewellery that makes the perfect gift. Opals are a great present to give someone when you come back from Australia and there are plenty you can buy that vary dramatically in price, to practically suit every budget.

Plush koalas and kangaroos

Have some little ones back home that you don’t want to disappoint? Why not buy them a cute plush toy of their favourite Australian animal? You can purchase everything from koalas to kangaroos and even crocodile plush toys too.

Add on gifts

Sometimes you may want to give someone a few things rather than one, or you want to get your next door neighbour a little something. We’ve got some great ideas for cute little presents they’ll enjoy:

A calendar featuring photographs of Sydney
A diary filled with photographs from a local Australian artist
A nice glossy fridge magnet (you can never have enough of those)
A novelty beer opener- because if Aussies are known world wide for anything, it’s drinking beer (and surfing).

Once you’ve packed all your things and checked out of the best Backpackers Sydney has to offer, give yourself some time to buy some thoughtful souvenirs that everyone will not only appreciate, but enjoy.