We are quite the travel-loving bunch. And whilst Europe has some incredibly stunning destinations and we are blessed with thousands of viable options for fantastic holidays, there are things that you just can’t find here. One of these wonderful and adventurous places is Australia. The Land Down Under is beckoning us with its wild landscapes, unique and iconic wildlife, and extraordinary cities. But it’s also a long, long way from home. And with a couple of misconceptions here and there – is it worth it for a family holiday?

Consider the distance and long haul with little ones

I mean, it was never really a question of “Will there be good things in Australia”, was it? So let’s address the elephant in the room right away – the flight time. It’s very close to being our antipode, the exact opposite place of the planet. Well, I say very close. Our antipode is the coast of New Zealand, but that’s their neighbours, so who’s counting?

Anyway, travelling to Australia from the UK is a long haul, typically around 17-20 hours. That’s a lot. So careful planning is key to ensure a smooth journey for everyone, especially the little peeps. It helps to pick airlines with dedicated kid’s entertainment systems like movies, games, and cartoons to keep them occupied, but you should pack plenty of activities for the journey yourself, too. Colouring books, travel journals, toys – well, you know them best.

It might also be worth considering stopovers in destinations like Dubai or Singapore to break up the travel time and allow for some sightseeing along the way! Remember that you need an Australian visa as a UK citizen – and make sure you check the entry requirements for any other country where you want to leave the airport.

You’ll find some really unforgettable experiences for all ages

Australia has seven climate zones across its territory. Seven! Ranging from equatorial to oceanic, you can have widely different experiences depending on where you decide to go and stay – so keep that in mind! So, it’s no surprise that the country has a humongous smorgasbord of experiences guaranteed for every family member. Snorkelling in one of the world’s natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef? Check. Exploring rainforests teeming with unique flora and fauna? Check. Spotting a cuddly koala in the wild or even cuddling a koala (not in the wild)? Check. Amazing theme parks like the Gold Coast’s Movie World? Check. Feeding kangaroos at a sanctuary? Check – ah, you get the idea. There is lots to do. And a lot of the things are simply things that you’ll probably remember your entire life.

Australia’s micro and macro are just fantastic

Now what I mean by that is that the country is geared up for families in both the small and grand scheme of things. You, of course, have many resorts and hotels that cater to you, child-friendly amenities left and right, kids’ clubs – you get the idea. But it’s also things like the public transportation systems in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are clean and efficient, making it super easy to navigate streets and iconic landmarks.

And the great outdoors they have is simply a playground for adventure. They’ve got so many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Uluru, a wonderful ancient sandstone formation that changes its colours depending on the sun. Crystal clear waters to swim and snorkel in (we have our eyes set on the Whitsunday Islands—an Atlantic Clipper Whitsundays tour is perfect for families craving adventure and fun on the water!). Or you can go into Queensland’s rainforests and explore its hidden waterfalls and most stunning, incredibly old trees. Honestly, whatever floats your family boats, you’ll find it here.

Sure, in comparison to destinations close by, Australia will also be more expensive, so a careful plan and budget should be in place. Holiday homes are an option, there are even national park stays to consider – both budget-friendly and more immersive! And many attractions and tours offer family discounts, too, so be sure to research and book in advance – but those tips should work wherever you go!

Ultimately, the answer is always yes. Australia is a simply amazing country, and it will be worth the visit. Just make sure to be well-prepared!

See some more of my travel posts here

Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.