Due to COVID restrictions, some experiences require you to book ahead to ensure you don’t miss out. You can book everything from wine tastings, to jet ski tours via their website or phone.
COVID safe travel in Australia
Find information on the domestic border status and tips for a safe and hassle-free trip. Please note this page is intended to provide general information only. Find out more here.*
Before you go
Travel with confidence with our handy checklists and essential information.
Follow a few simple steps to plan your holiday with ease. In addition to the information provided here, please ensure you are across all applicable government guidance, restrictions, and requirements.
Before travelling interstate, it’s best to check the government website of the State or Territory you are travelling to for the latest restrictions and advice. The COVID-19 Restriction Checker is a great place for up-to-date information.
Before you fly, make sure you are aware of any pre-flight requirements from your preferred airline. For example, some airlines are now requiring you to complete a contract tracing form.
Flying to and around Australia is still safe and easy. Here’s what you can expect.
- Checking in: as usual, you can check in for your flight online or at the airport; you may be asked to check in online to avoid crowing at check-in kiosks. There's no need to arrive at the airport any earlier than normal.
Food and drink venues: you'll still find plenty of cafés and shops open for your leisure.
Airport lounges: airlines are ensuring only a small number of travellers are in the lounge at one time, and are offering hosted food and drink service.
Boarding your flight: you may be asked to scan your own boarding pass as you board your flight.
- Wearing a mask: for your safety, everyone is required to wear a mask in airport terminals and on the plane.
Flying is the same great experience you remember. Here's what to expect in the air:
Flight seating: the air conditioners used on planes are designed to remove 99.9 per cent of air particles, including the Coronavirus. This allows passengers to sit next to each other safely.
In-flight service: as usual, cabin crew will be onboard to help. Food and drink items are still available for purchase if they are not included in your ticket.
In-flight entertainment: most airlines are still offering in-flight entertainment. Be sure to bring your own headphones if you prefer not to use the set provided.
Wearing a mask: masks are required during the flight, but don't worry - they can be taken off to enjoy in-flight food and beverages
While you're away
Here are some tips to protecting yourself while travelling:
- Stay 1.5 metres apart: keep physical distancing in mind whenever possible.
- Wear a mask: in some states, masks may be mandatory on public transport and indoor spaces.
- Soap up and be safe: wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds.
- Use cashless payment: use a credit or debit card to avoid cash.
Taxi and rideshare services like Uber continue to operate across Australia. Here are some safety tips for your ride:
- Sit in the backseat: give your driver space if you can.
- Wear a mask: in some states and territories, this may be required.
- Roll down your window: increase ventilation for yourself and your driver.
- For more taxi and rideshare safety tips, visit Safe Work Australia.
Hire cars and campervans are a great way to explore Australia's wide open spaces. Follow the tips below for a safe and comfortable ride:
- Skip the queue: many hire companies are offering contactless vehicle pick-up. Prearrange these services when you book your hire to enjoy a safe and easy start to your road trip.
- Smart sanitising: keep hand sanitiser in the car or campervan so you can easily disinfect as you stop along the way.
- Wipe wise: hire companies are ensuring the highest hygiene inside their vehicles. However, if you'd like extra peace of mind, bring along sanitising wipes for high touch services.
As an essential service, most public transport in Australia is operating as usual with increased hygiene practices in place. Follow these tips for a seamless trip:
- Check capacity: in some states and territories, you can check transport capacity in real time.
- Travel during quiet times: riders are encouraged to travel outside of peak travel times.
- Leave a spare seat: if possible, leave an empty seat between you and the next passenger.
- Wear your mask: both while you wait and during your ride.
The food and drink scene is well and truly back across Australia, with enhanced cleaning measures in place.
Tips for an enjoyable experience
- Book ahead: There may be capacity restrictions in some areas, so it’s best to book ahead to secure your spot at restaurants, bars, wineries and other hospitality venues.
- Comply with venue requests: Be sure to comply with any requests from the venue like signing in or remaining seated – these procedures are keeping staff and customers safe.
- Respect social distancing: No matter how cosy the venue, keep social distancing in mind. The Australian Government recommends staying 1.5 metres away from others wherever possible.
- Bring an extra layer: Hospitality venues have made some adjustments to make your dining experience safe and enjoyable. Some venues may have moved tastings or dining experiences outdoors to accommodate physical distancing protocols, so check the forecast and bring along a jumper or jacket.
Australia’s accommodation is as inviting as ever, with enhanced cleaning protocols in place. Use these tips for a safe and relaxing stay.
- Book flexible: make sure you’re comfortable with the cancellation policy before you book.
- Maintain social distancing: remain a safe distance, especially in shared spaces.
- Look for contactless check-in: some properties may be introducing a self-check in process.
Caravan parks
Many caravan parks are open for bookings, with new physical distancing rules offering travellers even more space to enjoy. In order to stay COVIDsafe, shared amenities may be limited and guests may be required to sign a health declaration upon entering the park. Get in touch with your caravan park to find out more.
Camping grounds
Most camping grounds are open with new booking rules and capacity limits. In some states and territories, like New South Wales, bookings are now required at all national park locations. This includes some locations where bookings were previously not required. Note that state-specific rules on public gatherings continue to apply in national park areas. Get in contact with your camping ground or national park organisation to find out more.
Australia’s unforgettable tours and attractions are open and waiting to welcome you. Here’s what to expect:
- Smaller groups: tours and attractions may have reduced group sizes, making for an even more immersive experience.
- Advance bookings: bookings may be required for attractions that did not previously require them, like museums and galleries. Visit the venue’s website for information.
- Card only: you may be asked to pay with a card rather than with cash.
After a tough year, tourism providers need your support, so book an experience now to add something truly memorable to your holiday.
Each state and territory has different rules around how many people can attend an event. Updates for all states can be found in the Entertainment Venues section of the Australian Government’s Restriction Checker.
Find out more about business events in Australia here.
If you develop any symptoms of COVID-19 while travelling, visit a doctor to get tested as soon as possible and follow their isolation instructions. See here for testing locations.
To talk to someone about your symptoms, call the National Coronavirus Hotline. Remember, in the case of a medical emergency, please call 000.
