Can't afford to get away this Australia Day weekend? Yes you can!

Australia Day this year falls on Thursday – and isn’t it tempting to take Friday off to make a long weekend of it!  January just seems to be that time of year when we all want to ease gently back into the slog of work, so a long weekend is the ideal opportunity for an affordable holiday.  And, after the chaos (and cost!) of Christmas, a mini break may seem out of reach but you can turn the dream into reality with these smart tips!

Holiday now, pay later 

With a mini loan from Safe Financial you could be off on your holiday in next to no time!  Take your short break now and then take your time to repay the loan – for repayments on a $1,000 loan, check out our mini loan calculator here! What could you do with $1,000?  Here’s a few options: 

Last minute specials – check out accommodation websites like wotif.com, expedia, booking.com or trivago for some awesome last minute weekend getaways at destinations all over Australia. 

Camp it up – camping has to be the best getaway option on a budget and it’s hard to beat this option if you’ve got a bunch of little ones in tow.  Spending less on accommodation means more cash in the kitty for fun activities and eating out.

Short breaks around Australia

If you’re looking for some inspiration for your affordable short break, here’s a few of our top picks from around the country:

NSW 

Newcastle and the Central Coast – beautiful beaches, Hunter Valley wineries and a great café culture make Newcastle and the Central Coast a relaxing option for a break this long weekend!

Explore Newcastle’s convict past, check out the city’s dark history with a ghost tour or kick back and relax in one of the city’s many bars and restaurants for a chilled out weekend. 

Victoria 

Melbourne – even if you live in Melbourne, chances are you haven’t experienced everything the city has to offer.  A CBD apartment for a few nights is the perfect opportunity to get out and experience the city laneways and urban groove. 

Grab yourself a copy of Melbourne’s free street papers Beat and Inpress to find out everything that’s happening this weekend! 

Queensland 

Coastal hinterland – Queensland is blessed with amazing weather all year round and if the novelty of the beach has worn off, why not check out some of the great options in the Gold or Sunshine Coast hinterland. 

Both hinterlands have options for budget cabins through to more luxurious escapes and you’ll never run out of things to see and do. 

South Australia 

Barossa Valley - South Australia is called our food and wine capital for good reason and we think it’s hard to go past the Barossa Valley as a destination of choice for a short break. 

With over 150 wineries and 80 cellar doors you’ll never get round them all but we can guarantee you’ll be hard pressed to pick a favourite! 

Tasmania 

Hobart – If variety is the spice of life then Hobart has it by the bucket load.  It’s the harbour town that has become hip and its brim full with restaurants, festivals, markets, arts and stunning waterfronts.  

On Saturdays check out the food and entertainment at Salamanca market – it’s Australia’s best outdoor market and once you’ve been there you’ll never forget it!

Western Australia 

Freemantle – this port city manages to blend its convict and colonial past with buzzing markets, lively bars and casual cafes in a vibrant mix that keeps everyone entertained. 

Don’t miss out on a trip to Freemantle Prison, Rottnest Island and Esplanade Park, and for lunch you can’t go past Little Creatures brewery – it’s fun and friendly for the whole family! 

It’s all in our own backyard

So there you have it – a few of our favourite places to visit around Australia no matter where you live. If you’ve got the will, there’s always a way to get out there and enjoy a short break this long weekend!  If you think you can’t afford it, or if you just want some extra cash to cover those back to school expenses, check out our mini loans - they're simple, easy and affordable!