Sydney Travel Budget: My First Month Costs in Australia

On By saar.decosterIn Australia

Figuring out a Sydney travel budget can feel overwhelming when you first arrive on a working holiday, especially when it comes to managing your money. If you’re still planning your route, my Ultimate East Coast Australia Itinerary can help you estimate how much you’ll spend across the trip. This post breaks down exactly what I actually spent, including hostels, transport, activities, food, and the little “oops” moments.

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Accommodation

DatePlaceCost (EUR)
11–16 OctWake Up! Hostel (free)€0
16–25 OctHump Backpackers€20 × 9 nights = €180
1 nightIvy Club€15
25–30 OctHostel Wollongong€17 × 5 nights = €85
1 nightWake-Up Hostel€20
31 Oct–3 NovSurf Camp Seven Miles Beach€320 (~$495 AUD)
3–9 NovHump Backpackers€20 × 6 nights = €120

Accommodation total: €740

🇦🇺
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Transport & Activities

ActivityCost (EUR)
Blue Mountains day trip€8
Ferry to Manly€10
Other local transport (bus/train estimate)€15

Transport & Activities total: €33

Sydney travel budget Blue Mountains Australia scenic viewpoint cliffs eucalyptus forest day trip Sydney
A day trip to the Blue Mountains, included in my Sydney travel budget breakdown as one of the most memorable low-cost adventures.

If you’re deciding how long to stay in Sydney as part of a bigger trip, check out my guide on how many days you need on Australia’s East Coast.

Extras / Essentials

ItemCost (EUR)
Water bottle replacement€18
Misc (toiletries, small unexpected stuff)€20

Extras total: €38

Food & Drinks (estimated)

  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner mostly self-cooked / budget meals: ~€10–12/day
  • Occasional wine or goon: ~€3–5/day
  • 30 days → roughly €350
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Grand Total

CategoryTotal (EUR)
Accommodation€740
Transport & Activities€33
Extras / Essentials€38
Food & Drinks€350

💰 Total spent in Sydney (approx.): €1,161

Want to know how this compares to travelling around the rest of the country? I also shared my complete Australia Backpacking Budget after nine months of travelling and working around Australia.

Budgeting Tips

  1. Hostels are your friend -> cheap, social, and perfect for meeting other travelers.
  2. Cook your own meals -> huge money saver. A little wine or goon is fine, just keep it balanced.
  3. Plan transport -> ferries, trains, and buses add up. Use scenic trips wisely!
  4. Expect small unexpected expenses -> like replacing water bottles or toiletries.
  5. Track everything -> journaling helps you see where your money goes.

Planning Your Australia Trip?

Planning a trip to Australia can feel overwhelming, especially with so many places to visit and things to organise.

That’s why I created my complete Australia Travel Guide, where I share everything you need to know, from itineraries and budgets to practical tips and travel inspiration.

→ START HERE: Australia Travel Guide
→ GET MY MAP: Australia Google Map

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FAQ

How much money do you need for Sydney on a working holiday?

For my first month in Sydney, I spent approximately €1,161 in total, including accommodation, food, transport, activities, and small extras. My biggest expense was accommodation, especially because I stayed in hostels for most of the month. Your budget can be lower if you find cheaper accommodation, cook more often, or travel with a campervan.

Is Sydney expensive for backpackers?

Yes, Sydney is one of the more expensive cities in Australia, especially when it comes to accommodation and eating out. Staying in hostels, cooking your own meals, and choosing free or low-cost activities helped me keep my budget under control. Luckily, Sydney also has many amazing free experiences, like beaches, walks, and viewpoints.

How much does one month in Sydney cost?

Based on my experience, one month in Sydney cost me around €1,161. This included €740 for accommodation, around €350 for food and drinks, €33 for transport and activities, and €38 for essentials. Of course, this can change depending on your travel style, especially if you go out often or book expensive tours.

How much does accommodation cost in Sydney for backpackers?

Hostels in Sydney usually cost around €15–25 per night depending on the location, season, and type of room. During my stay, I mostly paid around €20 per night for hostel accommodation. Booking longer stays or working in exchange for accommodation can help reduce costs.

Can you do Sydney on a budget?

Yes, absolutely. I saved money by staying in hostels, cooking most of my meals, using public transport, and choosing affordable activities. Some of my favourite Sydney experiences, like exploring beaches and viewpoints, were completely free.

What are the cheapest things to do in Sydney?

Some of the best budget-friendly activities in Sydney include visiting beaches like Bondi and Manly, walking along the harbour, exploring the Royal Botanic Garden, and taking affordable day trips like the Blue Mountains. You don’t need to spend a lot to experience the city.

Is Sydney worth visiting during a working holiday?

Definitely. Even though Sydney was more expensive than some other places I visited in Australia, it was a great first introduction to the country. The beaches, harbour views, and international atmosphere make it a city worth experiencing, especially when you first arrive.

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