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Melbourne Travel Resources

Melbourne Travel Resources

Melbourne Victoria, Australia Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Advance planning prevents last-minute issues and secures preferred options.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Break down your preparations into manageable stages for a stress-free trip.

3+

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Verify passport validity and submit your Australian visa application early.

Flights & Stays

Book international flights and accommodation, especially for peak season.

Insurance & Tours

Secure comprehensive travel insurance and major tours like the Great Ocean Road.

1

Month Before

Itinerary & Reservations

Finalize your daily itinerary and book for dining or shows.

Car & Currency

Book any rental cars, obtain Australian Dollars, and inform your bank of travel.

Documents & SIM

Prepare digital and physical document copies, and research local SIM or eSIM options.

1

Week Before

Packing & Essentials

Create a packing list, gather medications, and reserve your Type I power adapter.

Apps & Contacts

Download key applications (PTV, Google Maps, BOM), and confirm emergency contacts.

Home Care

Arrange for mail, pet care, and secure your home before leaving.

Advance Bookings

Certain bookings should be prioritized early in your planning.

Items to Reserve

  • International flights.
  • Accommodation.
  • Australian visa.
  • Travel insurance.

Pre-Trip Research

Information gathering enhances your preparedness for Melbourne.

Explore & Understand

  • Check What's On Melbourne for current events.
  • Familiarize yourself with Melbourne's seasonal weather.
  • Understand the Myki transport system and Free Tram Zone.
  • Read about local etiquette for respectful interactions.

Home Preparation

Ensure your home is secured and affairs are in order before you depart.

Security Checklist

  • Lock all doors and windows securely.
  • Let a reliable neighbor know of your absence.
  • Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances.
  • Consider smart home security options.

Household Management

  • Stop mail or newspaper deliveries.
  • Arrange for pet care during your trip.
  • Water plants or arrange for plant care.
  • Empty all perishable food from the fridge.

Financial & Administrative

  • Inform your bank of your travel dates.
  • Pay any upcoming bills in advance.
  • Scan important documents and store them digitally.
  • Update emergency contact lists.

Visa Application Timeline

Initiate your visa application as soon as your travel dates are set. Varied processing times mean an early start reduces potential stress.

Arrival Checklist

Your initial hours in Melbourne lay the groundwork for a memorable trip.

Initial Steps

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs

    Navigate airport signage, clear immigration, and retrieve your luggage. Accurately fill out the Incoming Passenger Card.

  • 2
    Biosecurity Screening

    Be ready for strict biosecurity checks. Avoid bringing prohibited items, like certain foods or plant materials.

  • 3
    Airport Transfer

    Proceed to your chosen airport transfer—SkyBus, taxi, or ride-share—or locate public transport connections.

Settling In

  • Tourist Information

    Visit the Melbourne Visitor Centre at Federation Square for maps and local recommendations.

  • Currency & Connectivity

    Withdraw Australian Dollars from an ATM and acquire a local SIM card if you have an Unlocked phone.

  • Public Transport Card

    Purchase and top up a Myki card for easy how to get to public transport outside the Free Tram Zone.

Transport from Entry Points

Melbourne Airport MEL

SkyBus offers service to Southern Cross Station.

Connect to your accommodation via tram, train, taxi, or ride-share from that point.

Avalon Airport AVV

SkyBus operates routes to Southern Cross Station.

From Southern Cross, proceed to your final destination using local transport.

Station Pier Cruise/Ferry

Tram Route 109 provides direct service to the CBD.

Alternatively, taxis and ride-shares are available for onward travel.

Connectivity & Travel Card

Upon arrival, acquiring a local SIM credit card and a Myki card expedites your connection and movement within the city.

Departure Preparation

A thoughtful departure plan promotes a seamless journey home.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Complete souvenir shopping a few days before departure to allow for Packing.
  • Inquire about international shipping for large or fragile items from retailers.
  • Decide which souvenirs go in carry-on and which in checked luggage.
  • Be mindful of airline liquid restrictions for carry-on items.

VAT Refund Procedure

  • The Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) offers GST refunds on eligible purchases.
  • Purchases over AUD $300 from a single store within 60 days qualify.
  • Present goods, original tax invoice, passport, and boarding pass at a TRS office.
  • Allocate extra time at the airport for TRS processing before departure.

Pre-Departure Timing

Strategic timing minimizes stress during your the process of leaving.

Critical Actions

  • Confirm flight status and terminal information.1 day prior
  • Plan airport transfer; consider peak hour traffic.Before travel
  • Arrive 2-3 hours early for international flights.Day of departure
  • Arrive 1-2 hours early for domestic flights.Day of departure

Return Trip Prep

  • Reconfirm layover flights and onward travel plans.
  • Keep all required documents easily accessible in your carry-on.
  • Double-check accommodation for forgotten personal items.
  • Spend remaining Australian Dollars or exchange them as needed.

TRS Documentation

For a GST refund via the Tourist Refund Scheme, retain all original receipts plus the actual goods.

Allocate ample time at the airport for the processing of your claim.

Melbourne Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts