Traveling to Sydney on a working holiday can feel overwhelming at first, especially when it comes to money. Here’s a breakdown of what I actually spent — including hostels, transport, activities, food, and the little “oops” moments.
If you’re planning a Working Holiday in Australia, there’s a lot to prepare — but don’t worry, I got you! Here’s my experience and practical tips to make your WHV adventure as smooth as possible.
Make sure your ID is clear and all info is correct.
Tip: You don’t need to pay an organisation to help you — it’s straightforward online.
2. Consider an organisation (optional)
I went with AIFS, which helped set up accommodation and some initial support.
You don’t have to use an organisation, but it can make the first few days easier if you prefer guidance.
3. Luggage insurance
Don’t skip this! I paid around €64 for 9 months.
Trust me, losing your bag or having something damaged is stressful, and insurance gives peace of mind.
After Arrival
1. Buy a local SIM card
I got Lebara, but there are plenty of options.
Make sure you have data for maps, transport apps, and contacting new friends!
2. Open a local bank account
I recommend Commonwealth Bank — super easy and widely accepted.
You’ll need this to get paid and manage your money while travelling.
3. Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN)
You can do this online, but it takes about 1 week to get approval.
You must have a TFN to work legally and pay taxes correctly.
4. Set up a Superannuation fund
This is your retirement fund — mandatory for all employees.
Mine was Hostplus Super, but there are other options.
You’ll get contributions from your employers automatically while you work.
Extra Tips
Keep copies of all documents — visa, ID, insurance
Keep some emergency cash separate from your card
Don’t stress if things feel overwhelming — the first week is always chaotic!
This is your starter kit for a smooth start to your Australian adventure. Follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to travel, work, and explore without unnecessary stress!
I arrived in Sydney a few days ago, and it felt like I landed right in the middle of chaos. My backpack didn’t make it past Singapore, and my prepaid card didn’t work — so I had no money, no clothes, no essentials. Just me, exhausted, and trying to figure out how to survive on the other side of the world.
Luckily, I was traveling with an organization called AIFS, and they set me up to stay at Wake Up! Hostel. That’s where I met Maxie, who ended up paying for my food and clothes for five days — something I’ll never forget.
Main Adventure
Those first days were mostly disorienting. I stayed at Wake Up! Hostel, where nights out were free, but everything felt slightly unreal — like I was there without fully being there. All of the other travelers were German, plus one Austrian girl, and I was the only one who didn’t speak German. Communication was… interesting.
After five days, I decided to go back to the airport myself to look for my backpack. And there it was — just sitting there. The staff told me they were “short-staffed” and hadn’t been able to process everything. Simple as that. Once I finally set up a bank account and transferred money to my Australian card, Sydney started to feel real.
I then moved to Hump Backpackers in Kings Cross — not the best decision. There were cockroaches in the kitchen and cats digging through the trash. Still, it somehow brought people together. That’s where I met Luke, a chef, who actually cooked for us one night. We played cards, talked, and just… existed together.
Fun Outings
During my stay at Wake Up!, I went on a couple of incredible walks:
The Bondi to Coogee walk — breathtaking views of the coastline and beaches.
A walk from the Botanical Garden to the Opera House — truly stunning, with so many photo moments along the way.
I also went to Manly with Mara and Julia. Getting there was super easy: a beautiful ferry ride from Sydney that only costs about $7, giving you incredible views of the harbour. That evening was Taco Tuesday: order a drink, get tacos for $2, free nachos, and a ridiculous sombrero. Completely silly. Exactly what I needed.
We also went to the Blue Mountains with a random French guy I met in the hostel. He turned out to have a crush on Mara and invited her to a French island — backpacker life logic at its finest. Luke cooked pasta again that night, and it was amazing.
Reflection
Even with all the chaos, life felt kind of beautiful. I laughed, got lost, met amazing people, and learned that traveling on your own can be wild, messy, and unforgettable.
Wherever I am next, I’m learning that even chaos can feel like a beginning.
Tips & Tricks
Go with an organization that suits your language — if you don’t speak German, try WelcomeToTravel or just book a few hostel nights and make friends along the way.
If you’re getting a credit card for traveling, memorize the PIN — don’t do what I did.
If your backpack doesn’t arrive, stay calm and check the airport — chances are it’s just sitting there.
Make friends and enjoy the chaos! Some hostels seem sketchy at first, but can turn out to be full of amazing people.
Take a small daypack for daily adventures.
Trust locals and hostel staff — they often know the hidden gems.
Capture the moments, but don’t forget to live them too.
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