5 Accommodation Recommendations for Backpackers in New South Wales
New South Wales (and Sydney, in particular) has some spectacular budget accommodation options for backpackers. The following five hostels and budget hotels are highly recommended:
Sydney Harbour YHA
Tucked into the heart of Sydney’s historic Rocks precinct, Sydney Harbour YHA offers unbelievable value. This won’t be your cheapest hostel experience in New South Wales, but the location and extra amenities make up for this. Sydney Harbour features an on-site grocery store, coffee bar, expansive communal areas and a self-catering kitchen. If that’s not enough, each of the personal lockers is equipped with an electric socket inside, so you can charge your phone or tablet without having to keep an eye on it. For the genuine flashpacker experience, head to the rooftop terrace for sweeping view of the harbour.
Bondi Beach House YHA
Stay two minutes stroll from the beach at Bondi Beach House without heading too far out of the Sydney city centre. This is, hands down, the best backpacker accommodation in Bondi, and it’s chocked full of amenities including a game room, barbecue facilities and free access to snorkels and body boards. Sunbathe on the roof and enjoy views over the beach.
Wake Up!
Located opposite Central railway station in the heart of Sydney CBD, this is the largest (privately owned) backpacker hostel on the planet. It’s a refreshingly modern hostel with plenty of special events on tap, including free guided city tours on certain days, live music and a trivia night with some serious prizes on the line.
Melaleuca Surfside Backpackers
Located in Port Stephens, this backpackers accommodation is relatively close to the beach and features a variety of shared and double-occupancy cabins that were designed by an architect. The property is set in the bush, and guests are also invited to pitch a tent and make use of shared facilities, which include a fully equipped kitchen, lounge, barbecues and dining area. Koalas and sugar glides live right on the property.
Aquarius Backpackers Byron Bay
The beaches on bohemian Byron Bay are the first to receive the sun’s rays each morning. As popular with backpackers as it is with poets and surfers, this is one of Australia’s most popular (not to mention, crowded) beach communities. Aquarius Backpackers offers dorm rooms (mixed and women-only) as well as a range of standard rooms at various price points. In other words, you can enjoy the full backpacker experience or splurge on something a bit more private.