Itchy feet? With some states having lifted their border restrictions, the kids on school holidays and summer underway, this could be a good time to explore what Australia has to offer. Just make sure that you’re smart when it comes to mapping out your getaway. With so much uncertainty still around us, you don’t want to splash your hard-earned cash on a fun plan, then have it go to waste.
Support small communities and businesses
It’s been a tough couple years for our rural communities in Australia. They’ve endured drought, fires, floods and everything else the world has thrown at us. Venturing out into some smaller communities can be an amazing experience and supporting small businesses always gives you a warm and fuzzy feeling.
Spending consciously can also apply to how you go about booking any accommodation. Instead of going through a booking website, pick up the phone and connect directly with the place where you’re looking to stay. You’ll be able to find out if there are any flexible options available and, if anything goes wrong, you won’t have a middleman making new arrangements even harder. Plus the local business will get 100% of what you pay to stay.
Look before you book
Most places offer flexible booking arrangements, but this doesn’t necessarily apply everywhere. Read the fine print when booking hotels, tickets or even transportation - it’s boring but could save you money and headaches down the track. Make sure you do your research and book places that won’t leave you out of pocket for things that are out of your control.
If you can’t find anything online, give them a call and find out what your options are. In some instances you may be required to pay a little extra to have the option for a full refund at a later date. Weigh up the cost and the risk involved before locking yourself into anything.
Keep up to date
Stay up to date with the latest details around border restrictions. Use your common sense and reschedule your plans if you find yourself at risk. It can be disappointing when things don’t go according to plan… or don’t end up happening at all. However, it’s important to follow the rules set out by the government or the policies of the places you visit. Most of this information can be found online.
Then make sure you have a plan B. Keep some spare cash aside in the instance you need to re-arrange your plans while you’re away and can’t get home for a while. The last thing you want is your holiday to end on a sour note. We all like to wing it sometimes but having a back-up plan is especially important right now.
So with a summer holiday back on the table, you can stay informed and get out there - exploring the country and helping support small, Aussie businesses along the way!