Safety Tips for Travelling in Australia

Although you may have heard some hilarious myths about travelling in Australia, such as the one about drop bears, Australia is generally safe to travel in. What you should be most concerned about is the nature in Australia, which is certainly unique from the nature of the rest of the world. While the country itself is generally safe, with a stable political system, all the sun, wildlife, and water that make it so great are actually something you should watch out for.

Protect Your Skin

Australians have to deal with a shocking reality: their skincare rates are astoundingly high for the first world. This is due to their location, and the amount of sun the country gets. Never leave your hotel without UVA/UVB sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF. When it comes to protecting your skin, the higher the better. Don’t walk around shirtless or in beach wear for any longer than necessary, and invest in some sunglasses and a hat. Don’t forget to reapply your sunscreen throughout the day, and bring enough water with you.

Never Touch Animals

It’s true what they say about Australia: there’s an awful lot of snakes and spiders, and a lot of them are seriously venomous. If you’re exploring nature, never attempt to approach any animals, especially if they can potentially be venomous.

If you’re in the water, only visit beaches that have installed safety nets to prevent stinging fish from mixing with swimmers. When scuba diving, wear the proper gear to protect yourself and only dive with an experienced guide. Follow all instructions thoroughly. You’ll still have a good time, and you’re more likely to be safe.

Yes, There Are a Lot of Sharks

Shark attacks are not as common as the movies make them seem, but when they do happen, they can result in absolute tragedy. While most beaches install shark nets, sharks may occasionally swim around these enclosures. Only swim in broad daylight, and never swim alone. Stay within the confines of the safety net, and steer clear of deeper water. Opt for patrolled beaches for maximum safety.

Hike Smart

If you intend on going for a hike or a bushwalk, make sure you take the necessary precautions. Understand how long the trails are, and bring ample supplies. Consider going with a guide to avoid getting lost in the wilderness, and make sure to alert others that you’re hiking. Tell them where you’ll be, and when you expect to return. Always hike in proper shoes, and never venture off of trails. Follow a map, and never hike on days when the temperature is expected to climb to unbearable highs.

Camp right

Australia is especially prone to brush fires because of its climate. If you require a fire for camping, exercise good common sense, and always completely extinguish the fire with water when it won’t be attended. Many campsites have designated areas for fires, and you should never attempt to light a fire outside of these areas. Always take precautions to guard your campsite from potentially dangerous wildlife, and avoid camping in areas that aren’t designated as safe for that purpose.

Australia can offer you a fun, unique experience. There’s just no place like the land down under. Though some of its unique quirks may require you to plan your trip a little differently, you’ll still have an unforgettable experience.

Author bio: Will Norquay is a frequent traveller who shares his experiences and thoughts writing for Stayz. Stayz is Australia’s #1 holiday rental website.