Take a look at our money tips for backpackers, gap year adventurers and career break travellers so you get the most from your next big adventure.
1. The when and where
Choose to travel to places off-peak and you’ll definitely save money.
But get the balance right – some experiences are too magical to be solely determined by cost. Do you really want to see the Amalfi Coast in winter or experience a Kenyan safari during the rainy season?
2. Budgeting basics
It’s important to work out a rough budget, ideally a few months in advance. Think about what you’ll need before you go, not just what you’ll need when you’re there – e.g. vaccinations, medicines, insect repellent, replacement passport if yours is due to expire soon (or when you’re overseas).
You don’t need a huge budget to squeeze the most out of every moment, but it makes sense to be prepared for the unforseen. Turning down a once-in-a-lifetime activity because you don’t have enough cash can put a downer on your trip.
Work out roughly how much you’ll need and set a savings goal in NetBank. Take into account things like the exchange rate too. Play that right and it could help your dollar go further.
3. Travelling light
Only pack what you’ll absolutely need. A pair of jeans for every day of the week is definitely not worth the extra weight – clothes will come second to the memories you'll accumulate from your trip anyway.
Travelling light is also important because over-packing could mean extra costs.
Airlines are cracking down on over-sized, over-packed bags and are within their rights to charge you. Weight restrictions differ from airline to airline so check closely, especially if you’re planning on taking several connecting flights.
4. Cards or cash?
Consider taking a mix of cash and cards. That way you’ll have more flexibility and choice when it comes to paying for things.
A Travel Money Card means you can lock in your exchange rate and load several currencies on the one card, then withdraw money without having to pay a conversion fee.
5. Cheap can be costly
Theoretically the cheaper your accommodation, the longer you’ll be able to travel. But getting a cheap deal doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a money-saver in the long-run.
See if your accommodation includes things like free Wi-Fi, access to a communal kitchen or BBQ areas, and free or discounted transfers from the airport before deciding if you’re really getting value for money.
6. Haggling
It doesn’t always come naturally, but haggling for goods is expected in some countries and can be fun as well as save you money.
Haggle responsibly though. What you’re saving probably could mean a lot to the seller, so go for a bargain, but a fair price for you both.
7. Safety first
Common sense is key. Plan ahead and research local destinations for any potential safety risks and register your travel plans with SmartTraveller.
You know you’ll need local currency to pay for things like taxis, so it makes sense to exchange dollars beforehand to avoid scrambling for cash. But you probably don’t want to carry too much – especially as turning your back, even for one second, could be just the distraction a pick-pocket needs to relieve you of funds.
And don’t lose sight of your credit card no matter where you are. Handing your card over at a restaurant, for example, so a waiter can swipe it at a terminal out the back is a big no-no.
If you don’t have an eligible card, or you are travelling within Australia, you can look into buying you can look into buying a policy.
Travel insurance is recommended. If you’ve got a CommBank Gold Awards, Platinum Awards, Diamond Awards or Ultimate credit card or a World Debit Mastercard, international travel insurance is included with your card.
- For eligible cards, you’ll need to spend at least $500 in a single transaction on prepaid travel costs (e.g. the cost of their return overseas travel ticket, prepaid accommodation, cruise, travel or tour) by charging the cost for that trip on their eligible card account and activate before leaving Australia to receive any cover.
Customers will also qualify if the $500 worth of prepaid travel costs is redeemed using CommBank Awards points or Travel Booking travel credits (prior to 29 September 2026) or using CommBank Yello points or Travel booking credits (from 29 September 2026). Customers will need to provide a copy of the letter/statement/email confirming the redemption, or a screenshot of the Travel Booking confirmation with the payment method.
If you don’t have an eligible card, or you are travelling within Australia, you can look into buying you can look into buying a policy.
8. Volunteering
Pitching in as a volunteer has multiple benefits. And will have a lasting impact on everyone, including you.
Offering your skills – e.g. teaching English, helping build shelters or contributing to organisations who encourage entrepreneurial ventures – can be rewarding, inspiring and meaningful.
You may get a roof over your head and a free meal or two along the way, but the rewards go far beyond the financial.
24-hour travel insurance emergency assistance:
For trips activated or purchased before 29 September 2026, contact Cover-More for 24 hour Emergency Assistance:
- You may contact Cover-More emergency assistance at:
- Within Australia: call Cover-More on 02 8907 5641 (24/7)
- From overseas: call Cover-More on +61 2 8907 5641 (24/7)
For trips activated or purchased from 29 September 2026, contact XCover for 24 hour Emergency Assistance:
- Your XCover Assist 24 hour emergency assistance number is provided in your Insurance Policy.
- Or reach out to CBA for support at 1800 861 411 (within Australia) or +61 3 9088 0325 (from overseas). They’ll guide you through the process or direct you to XCover for assistance.
