Why waste your annual leave? Top budget adventures you won’t regret
Are you going to spend your well deserved annual leave slothing around the house or will you be exploring awe-inspiring landscapes and conquering mountains?
We know which option we would choose!
So if Sally from HR is on your case for hoarding your annual leave, check out these top budget adventures you won’t regret:
Camp in Australia
If you’ve banked up annual leave but don’t want to break the bank then look no further than camping. Holidaying locally is a thrifty way to spend your annual leave, as you don’t have to fork out cash like with an overseas trip for everything from vaccinations to flights and you’ll discover the natural beauty at your doorstep.
According to Australian Geographic the best spots in Australia for pitching a tent include the Booderee National Park in Jervis Bay (NSW), the Fortress in the Grampians National Park (Vic) and Iga Warta in the Northern Flinders Ranges (SA). From white sandy beaches to barren valleys these spots showcase the beauty of Australia’s landscape for as little as $7 per camping site.
Hike in New Zealand
Towering alps, glacial valleys and majestic mountains…Get your walking boots ready, as the lands of Middle-earth are waiting for you to explore.
New Zealand is only a short plane ride from most Aussie cities making flights pretty wallet-friendly. In fact our search showed a Qantas return saver flight from Sydney to Christchurch starts from just $588*.
New Zealand is home to 9 Great Walks including Lake Waikaremoana, Tongariro Northern Circuit and Whanganui Journey with hut accommodation starting from just $22 a night.
Help orangutans in Borneo
If you’re looking for an adventure that will truly make the most out of your annual leave, then check out the Great Orangutan Project in the Matang Wildlife Centre, Borneo.
As a volunteer you’ll get a hands on experience and help protect endangered orangutans. Great for water cooler conversations back at work! At the time of our search a two week stay - including accommodation, food and water - will cost you $2,112 and if you’ve got more annual leave up your sleeve it’s just $3,077 for a month.
But keep in mind flights and travel insurance are on you, so make sure you get your travel insurance sorted before you jet-set by looking for a policy with unlimited medical cover and overseas emergency hospital expense like the American Express Travel Insurance Basic.
*All prices taken on the 19 November. Flights and accommodation from 18-24 January.
