My Top 10 Safety Tips For Traveling Australia

Are you planning to travel through Australia but worried about safety? So was I when I first got here. Whether it’s fear of venomous spiders, sharks, crocodiles, or even kangaroos (oh yeah, they can be dangerous!), it’s understandable to feel anxious. But fear not! After spending a year here on a working holiday visa, I can assure you that Australia turned out to be one of the safest places I’ve traveled to.

Here are some practical safety tips for traveling in Australia, from driving safely to staying protected while swimming.

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Is Australia Dangerous for Travelers?

While Australia does have unique risks—like its intense sun and infamous wildlife—it is generally a very safe country for travelers. Most cities are secure, and walking around at night, even solo, is typically safe (though it’s worth noting that Darwin has a reputation for being less safe, or so I’ve heard).

Outback towns are also mostly safe, particularly tourist-friendly areas. However, petty crime can happen anywhere, so it’s good to be cautious. For example, during my time working at a resort in Lightning Ridge, there were instances of kids breaking into unlocked cars at night.

1. Protect Yourself from the Sun

One of the biggest risks you’ll face in Australia is one you might not expect—the sun. Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer globally due to the weakened ozone layer. In fact, I saw an ad that said people in Australia have a 1 in 2 chance of getting skin cancer at some point in their lives! That’s crazy high! So even if you don’t burn easily (I normally don’t, but was extremely sensitive to the sun in Australia), you should still take precautions.

Australia’s sun protection campaign encourages: Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide. This means:

• Slip on a long-sleeved shirt (ideally with UV protection).
• Slop on sunscreen (50+ SPF is ideal; I like Neutrogena).
• Slap on a hat.
• Seek shade.
• Slide on sunglasses.

2. Avoid Driving at Night

Don’t. Do. It. I can’t stress it enough. Driving at night in Australia, especially in rural areas, was the biggest danger I encountered on my Outback and East Coast road trip. Kangaroos are a major concern, as they often leap onto roads, particularly around dusk and dawn. Almost without fail, each time I drove close to dark in the Outback, a kangaroo hopped onto the road in front of my car.

They may look cute, but these pure-muscle animals can cause significant damage to vehicles and potentially end your trip early. (Don’t forget to get insurance—better to be safe than sorry!)

3. Pay Attention to Beach Signs

When it comes to swimming in the ocean, keep in mind that while Australia’s beaches are beautiful, they can be dangerous. Always read the signs posted at beaches to stay informed about hazards like rip tides or dangerous marine stingers (box jellyfish or Irukandji).

Also, be aware that in some areas there are crocodiles (avoid the north if you’re scared) and sharks (avoid the south if you’re scared).

4. Swim Between the Flags

Ideally, only get in the water if there are lifeguards. In Australia, only the section of the beach that’s marked in between red and yellow flags is patrolled. Avoid swimming outside of these flags.

5. Take Regular Driving Breaks

Australia’s vast, empty roads can be exhausting. I’m no stranger to driving long distances, having grown up going traveling in the USA, but Australia is very different, with vast stretches of absolute nothingness going on for hours and hours.

Ensure you take regular breaks, ideally every two hours, to stay alert. If you’re traveling alone, consider finding a co-driver or using rideshare options through hostels or Facebook groups. This not only helps split the driving but also makes the journey more enjoyable. Alternatively, consider traveling by bus, train or via a private tour.

Also, even remote areas have rest areas, usually just a picnic table but sometimes toilets too. Make sure to take advantage of these stops to stretch and refresh.

6. Carry Extra Supplies

Given the long distances between towns, especially in the Outback, it’s essential to carry extra fuel and water. Running out of supplies in the middle of nowhere can leave you stranded for hours. Always ensure you have more than enough fuel and water (and a spare tire) before setting off.

7. Avoid Swimming at Dusk or Dawn

Sharks are more active during dusk and dawn, so it’s best to avoid swimming or surfing during these times. It may be tempting to go on a romantic sunset swim, but my Australian friend advised he’d never go into the ocean during those hours. If the locals are cautious, you should be too!

(Again, if you’re scared of sharks like me, you may be happy to know there are some great pool alternatives all around Australia.)

8. Inform Others of Your Plans

Mobile phone reception can be unreliable outside of cities and towns. Before driving into remote areas or going bushwalking, inform someone of your itinerary. In case of an emergency, having someone who knows your whereabouts can be crucial.

9. Drink Responsibly

Getting drunk can be dangerous anywhere you travel in the world, but it’s an especially bad idea in Australia because it’s illegal in some states.

That’s right, being intoxicated is illegal. Especially in cities like Sydney, you won’t be let into a bar if you look drunk. It’s probably for the best, as you’re more likely to be a victim of crime if you’re drunk.

10. Get Travel Insurance

Even with all the precautions in the world, things can still go wrong while traveling. Whether it’s a medical emergency, theft or a car accident, having travel insurance will provide peace of mind while traveling in Australia. It can also make a stressful situation a little bit less stressful if you know you can be reimbursed for medical costs or travel plans gone wrong.

I personally use and highly recommend Safety Wing. They offer flexible travel and medical insurance policies and are amazing.

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Australia is a beautiful, unique country with incredible experiences waiting at every corner. By following these safety tips and staying alert, you can enjoy your adventure without worry. Safe and happy travels!