Buy Australian dollars online

You'll be able to use your credit and debit cards across Australia, but your bank may charge an overseas transaction fee. It's also a good idea to let your bank know that you'll be in Australia before you go. If you don't, your bank may think the transaction is fraudulent and block the payment.

Smaller shops and cafés often have a minimum card spend for bank card purchases. In cases like these, having some travel money on hand can help you pay for your morning coffee or jar of yeast extract.

Australia can be quite an expensive place to visit, especially if you're staying in cities like Canberra or Sydney.

If you're visiting Australia on a tighter budget, staying in hostels and using public transport are a few good ways to reduce your travel expenses. Some hostels and guestrooms will even have kitchens where you can cook.

But if you do plan to dine out in Australia, a basic meal can cost:

• AUD48 in Canberra
• AUD35 in Adelaide
• AUD30 in Perth
• AUD25 in Sydney and Melbourne
• AUD19 in Wollongong
• AUD15 in Ballarat

Check our currency converter to see the latest exchange rates for Australian dollars.

The Australian dollar is the only accepted currency in Australia.

While they have the same currency unit, the US dollar (USD) and New Zealand dollar (NZD) aren't interchangeable with the Australian dollar. If you arrive in Australia with any of these currencies, you'll need to exchange them.

Whether you're attending a conference or going on a cruise, UK citizens will need a visa to enter Australia.

If you're visiting Australia for a holiday or to attend a business meeting, you can apply for an eVisitor pass which will let you stay in Australia for up to 3 months. If you're hoping to work or stay longer, you'll need a different visa.

You'll also need to bring a valid passport and completed Incoming Passenger Card.

You should always research the most up to date visa guidelines before planning a trip.

Other passport holders should check the entry requirements with your country's embassy.

Tipping isn't normally expected in Australia. Instead, a 10% to 15% service charge will be added onto your bill.

In cases where there's no service charge, waiters and taxi drivers will appreciate a tip between AUD10 and AUD15. For hotel porters, you should tip AUD1 per bag.

Australia doesn't have an official language. However, English is recognised as the national language and is spoken widely throughout the country.

Besides English, there are a few other languages spoken by expat communities:

• Mandarin
• Arabic
• Vietnamese
• Cantonese
• Punjabi

There are also a few Aboriginal Australian languages, including:

• Australian Kriol
• Yumplatok
• Arrernte
• Pitjantjatjara
• Tiwi

During summer, parts of Australia can become very hot and dry. Bushfires are especially common during this period, and many can be extremely dangerous. Smoke from these fires can cause poor air quality and lead to respiratory conditions.

The government regularly provides information for travel into Australia. You can visit the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for the latest travel advice for Australia.

Australia is part of the Southern Hemisphere, which means that it's Australian summer during British winter and vice versa.

If you're heading to Australia for a beach holiday, visit southern Australia between December and March. This will be Australian summer time, meaning longer days and warmer temperatures. Cities like Gold Coast and Sydney will be bustling holiday hotspots during this period.

Northern Australia is popular during the dry season (June to September). The currents are gentler, making it a great opportunity for snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef. The lack of humidity also makes the dry season a good time to explore Australian rainforests or hike one of Australia's many trails.

Generally speaking, the best time to visit Australia will depend on what you want to do and the weather you want to have!