Ouch! ANOTHER interest rate hike by the RBA (Reserve Bank of Australia), bringing the total number of interest rate increases since May 2022 to an eye-watering number nine!
Although Easter is a wonderful time to take a break and spend time with family and friends, the cost of travel, accommodation and activities can quickly add up, making it challenging to plan a budget-friendly holiday.
Fortunately, Australia has plenty of affordable options for those looking to have a fun and memorable Easter break without breaking the bank and avoiding a financial hangover. Here are our 2023 Easter budget buster ideas for the April holiday break, regardless of whether you’re single or a large family.
Camping
Camping is an excellent budget-friendly option for an Easter holiday in Australia. Our country has plenty of national parks and campsites, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, and the weather currently is making this an easy decision to make.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to camping, you can enjoy the great outdoors – go hiking, swimming at the beach or one of the various natural watering holes or have a picnic.
There are tons of local camping grounds all over Australia. Apps like HipCamp have also opened up private properties for avid campers at [often] cheaper rates.
Plus – for all our parents out there, camping is a fantastic way to disconnect from technology and enjoy quality time with loved ones.
Road trips
A road trip could be perfect for your Easter break if you love adventure and exploring new places.
Australia has plenty of scenic routes perfect for road trips, whether in NSW or across the regional borders, such as the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, the glorious East Coast of Queensland and the Outback.
Use the most fuel-efficient vehicle you have, and take your time to stop off at some of the country’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
You can save money by packing your own food, staying at budget-friendly B&Bs or motels or staying home and choosing a different direction to explore each day.
Tourism is a priority for most councils, so investigate free activities they’re offering along the way.
Staycations
A staycation is a great option to avoid the stress and expense of travelling.
Get in character and explore your city or town like a tourist. Visit museums, galleries and local attractions that you may have never had the chance to see before.
You can also enjoy a day trip to nearby towns or parks to mix up your staycation or invite family and friends to join you on a day out with a picnic or BBQ.
Beach holidays
Australia has some of the world’s most beautiful beaches – on the coast and inland, and the best part is that they’re all free except for those located inland, which may require a minimal national park entry fee.
Pack a picnic and spend the day relaxing on the sand, swimming and playing beach games. You can also explore the local beach town, try some delicious seafood and watch the sunset over the ocean.
House-sitting
We can see the confusion on your face, but what a great way to cover your accommodation expenses.
Offer to housesit for free for someone in an area you’d like to explore who is going away over Easter. This way, you enjoy a free stay in a new location while looking after someone’s home and pets.
You’ll get invaluable local insights by asking the property owner or tenant for local gems to explore too.
There are plenty of budget-friendly options for an Easter holiday in Australia. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventurer, or beachgoer, there’s something for everyone.
The key is planning, researching options and being flexible with your itinerary. You can have a fun and memorable Easter break without breaking the bank, with a little creativity and planning.
For more budget-buster ideas, check out our budget bible 2023 blog. If you’re ready to achieve your financial freedom, speak to one of our financial planners by contacting us to make an appointment.