Was wondering if there's any sort of Aussie equivalent "backpacker bus" like Stray or (ugh) Kiwi Experience here in New Zealand...I'm planning on stopping off in Oz for about two weeks before I head off to Southeast Asia and because I don't drive I thought that a hop-on-hop-off bus would be my best bet. Any recommendations?

Now don't be put off straight away - I've heard some good reports about "Oz Experience". I'm pretty sure that is the bus company where you can buy the ticket and jump on and off wherever you feel like.

If you are going through Qld, make sure you stop at Airlie Beach - just north of Mackay - backpacker central.

Holy crap! I've obviously been in New Zealand too long...was taking a look at some of the itineraries that Oz Experience offer, thinking that I could cram most of my stuff into 14 days. All the itineraries I looked at...MINIMUM 25 DAYS?? Argh! Guess I completely forgot how much bigger Australia is than NZ...eek.

quote:

Originally posted by Badly Drawn Girl:
Holy crap! I've obviously been in New Zealand too long...was taking a look at some of the itineraries that Oz Experience offer, thinking that I could cram most of my stuff into 14 days. All the itineraries I looked at...MINIMUM 25 DAYS?? Argh! Guess I completely forgot how much bigger Australia is than NZ...eek.

Hmmm... yes quite a bit bigger...

You can get an East Coast Discovery Pass for AUD$198.00, but there is no backtracking.

There is also a Backtracker Pass AUD$232.00 14 days , or a
1 month pass for AUD$275.00.

Enjoy our country and have a great holiday.


Have a nice day, Whistler.


If you can keep a sense of humour and see the funny side of life, you will never be old. SMC.

It definitely takes a bit longer. I'd also recommend Greyhound -- I saw tons of backpackers on it, too, and hostels will pick you up from the bus stop. Oz Experience is good if you have loads of time, but otherwise can be slow-going.