Every year, thousands of people visit Australia. With its pristine beaches and natural wonders, you can forget your worries and enjoy your holiday away from it all. So, prepare yourself for a trip to remember!
Do’s and don’ts in Australia
In Australia, it’s best to follow the locals to make your experience in Australia more comfortable and what you can and can’t do. Aside from rules and laws, etiquette and customs are key things to consider before your trip.
There is plenty to keep in mind, but to help give you an idea, here are some of the most common do’s and don’ts for first-time visitors to Australia.
Don’ts
Don’t smoke or drink in public places. It’s illegal to smoke or drink in public places like office buildings, buses and stores. Be mindful of others and only smoke in designated areas.
Don’t hire cars from unlicensed companies. You will need a rental car to get around Australia. But before making a booking with one, make sure that they are licensed. Unlicensed companies will only bring you grief, so make sure that the car rental company you choose in Australia is fully licensed and will give you the right kind of coverage for your stay.
Don’t disregard warning signs at the beach
When you go swimming in any of the beaches around Australia, take note of the warning signs. Flags and signage at the beach indicate the limit where visitors can swim. Going beyond these is not recommended.
Don’t bring prohibited items with you
Before your flight, know all the things that you can’t bring with you. If Australia’s customs department finds something in your luggage that shouldn’t be there, they will confiscate it and you could be subject to a fine. So, be mindful of the things you plan to bring over.
Don’t drive and use your mobile phone at the same time
It’s illegal to use your smartphone while driving. There are different laws in each state. For example, in Queensland, it is okay to answer calls or play music through your devices with the aid of a hands-free device such as Bluetooth and headphones.
While in New South Wales, drivers are not allowed to touch their devices at all when the car is running. So, know the laws in the state where you will get your rental car from.
Do’s
Do carry copies of your IDs and your country’s embassy contact information
It’s always a good idea to bring a copy of your passport and other documents with you wherever you go. That way, you still have some form of identification wherever you go around the country.
Do put on sunscreen when going outdoors
The sun in Australia is harsh, especially during summer. If you’re hoping to work on your tan, don’t forget to put on some waterproof sunscreen. Use stronger sunscreen when you need to stay out in the sun for an entire day.
Do learn a bit about the major sports in Australia
Sport is a big part of Australian culture. Whether it’s rugby or cricket, you can always come across someone who is a big fan of the game. The fastest way to help you engage in conversation is to know the latest happenings in the world of Australian sports. That way, you can at least have an idea on who’s currently the best team and who’s the worst.
Do put on your seatbelt whenever you get into a vehicle
In Australia, seatbelts are mandatory. Seatbelts play a vital role in your safety in case of an accident. So, buckle up for safety before starting up your drive. Not only will the seatbelts save your life, but they will also keep you from paying a fine.
Do brush up on your driving
If you’re from a country that drives on the right side of the road, then it’s best to brush up on your driving skills before coming to Australia.
Especially since Aussies drive on the left side. It’s also important to be aware of road rules. That way, you can stay away from trouble with the law and enjoy your holiday more.
Follow these simple rules and tips during your stay in Australia to avoid trouble and the headaches that come with it. Enjoy the destinations and don’t forget to capture the moments so you can share them with your friends and family upon your return.