Tag: lifeassaar

Sydney Travel Budget: How Much I Spent During My First Month

On door saar.decosterinAustralia, Costs and budget, SydneyEen reactie plaatsen

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.

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

Transport & Activities

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

Transport & Activities total: €33

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

Grand Total

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

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

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.

Working Holiday Visa Tips: What You Need to Know Before & After Arrival

On door saar.decosterinAustralia, Working holiday visaEen reactie plaatsen

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.

Before You Go

1. Apply for your visa (subclass 417)

  • Go directly to the official Australian Government website to apply.
  • 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!