Backpacking is a great way to stay active without getting bored — every trail provides something new and exciting. However, it’s easy to burn thousands of calories each day when you’re on the trail, especially if you’re taking on rough terrain.

Needless to say, most backpackers recognize the importance of staying properly fueled. However, if you are backpacking with dietary restrictions, that might seem easier said than done. Things like food allergies or sensitivities can make it hard to get the calories you need to keep going on a long hike.

Thankfully, it’s not impossible to get the right nutrients and fuel your body in healthy, effective, and efficient ways. Learning how to do so can make each experience more fulfilling and enriching, so you can focus on your surroundings instead of your grumbling stomach. Let’s take a look at how you can maintain your strength and energy on long backpacking hikes, even if you have to deal with dietary restrictions.

Plan the Perfect Trip

Packing snacks for the trail can be easy enough, even if you go with the same “stand by” snacks every time. However, unless you’re camping after a hike, the most important way to keep yourself properly fueled is by eating a healthy meal before you hit the trail and after you’re done.

So, it’s a good rule of thumb to choose backpacking locations that are surrounded by places that fit your dietary needs. For example, if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, it’ll be easier for you to find healthy, filling options in trails close to cities that cater to plant-based diets. Some of the best areas in the country for plant-based tourists include:

  • Portland, Oregon
  • Austin, Texas
  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
  • Phoenix, Arizona
  • Chicago, Illinois

Backpacking should be fun and exciting. It’s all about exploration and discovery. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some of the perks of “city life” while you’re on your trip. While backpacking, search for local restaurants that cater to your dietary needs, and you’ll have an easier time fueling up and recharging.

Understand Backpacking Food Basics

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or you’re hitting the trail for the first time, you probably understand how important it is to have enough food with you. However, far too many backpackers make the mistake of not packing enough nutrient-dense items. There are some essential rules to follow when it comes to backpacking food basics, including:

  • Choosing shelf-stable ingredients;
  • Packing plenty of lightweight food, including freeze-dried and dehydrated items;
  • Packing calorie-dense items;
  • Understanding cooking times.

The more you understand how to pack your food efficiently, the easier it will be to pack snacks and meals that meet your caloric needs and take your dietary restrictions into account while backpacking.

Yes, we suggested meals. Sometimes, when you have restrictions that require certain ingredients to be eliminated, small snacks won’t cut it. Thankfully, there are plenty of pre-packaged and even stoveless meals you can take with you on the trail. Nowadays, you can find vegan options and gluten-free options, as well as pre-made meals that will offer warnings and disclaimers about any ingredients that may cause allergic reactions.

It can take a bit of time, research, and even some trial and error to find pre-packaged meals and snacks that meet your needs and taste great. Don’t be afraid to try different brands and options, and you’ll eventually find what works best for you.

Create Your Own Snack Hacks

While there are plenty of pre-packaged snacks and meals on the market, sometimes the easiest way to meet your dietary needs is to make your own. You know your restrictions better than anyone. Sometimes it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to ingredients.

Plus, when you’re in charge of preparing your own snacks and meals, you can choose flavors you love, and you won’t get bored on the trail. Having something delicious and nutritious to look forward to can keep you motivated and energized long before you dig in.

It can take a bit of creativity to prepare meals and snacks, depending on your dietary restrictions. For example, many people take nuts or trail mix with them while backpacking. Nuts are a great source of protein and can provide a quick energy boost. However, if you have a nut allergy, those pre-packaged mixes aren’t an option.

Thankfully, you can create your own with things like seeds, dried fruits, and different spices. Not only will making your own snacks allow you to leave out ingredients you can’t have, but you’ll also be in control of sugar content, fat, and flavor.

You don’t have to be a pro in the kitchen to create snacks and meals that meet your restrictions and taste great. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different foods and flavors. It can end up saving you money and keeping you properly fed and fueled on your trip.

There’s no reason dietary restrictions should get in the way of your backpacking goals. Keep these tips in mind to stay safe, healthy, and energized on the trail.

Being able to travel and see different countries is an amazing experience. You can learn so much about culture and people by going on holiday and exploring the cities.

One popular place to visit is France as the country is so diverse and offers so many different holiday opportunities. Before you visit a country for the first time, it is always a good idea to do some research and find out a little bit about the country. This gives you a good guideline to work with and it can help you make the most out of your experience.

In this article, we are going to be talking specifically about France, so if you are planning to visit the country soon, then keep on reading to find out our top tips.

Be Prepared

One of the first things you should do before you travel to France is to make a plan. Now, this doesn’t mean you need to make a detailed itinerary or have your whole holiday meticulously planned, but it would be a good idea to have a basic guideline of the things you would like to do.

France is a place that has so much to offer, so depending on what sort of holiday you are after, there are different places to visit. If you are wanting a sunny, beach holiday, then we recommend visiting the south of France as it offers such a wide variety of beaches that you can relax on.

However, if a beach holiday isn’t something you are after, then you can always go for a city break in Paris, or embrace the slopes and go skiing, which we will discuss below.

Go Skiing

As mentioned above, if you are travelling to France for your holidays, then going skiing could be a great opportunity to make the most of your holiday. If you are an adrenaline junkie, then a skiing holiday in France is definitely the right option for you.

In terms of where to ski in France, you have a few options available. Chamonix, Avoriaz, and La Tania are all great places to go whether you are a beginner skier or advanced. If you have never skied before but have always wanted to try it, then France would be a good place to go as you can enjoy some gorgeous views while you ski down the mountain. All resorts in France will offer you induction courses too, so you can learn the basics before you start.

Live Like A Local

Mingle with the locals at a French market

Mingle with the locals at a French market

Another good way to make the most of your holiday in France is to simply live like a local. Being a tourist anywhere in the world can be a little daunting, so the best way to enjoy your holiday is to embrace the culture and live like a local.

This is why it is so important to do your research before you go to France as this will help you learn a bit more about the culture and the customs. Different countries will have different ways of living, so if you want to properly fit in and feel comfortable in the country, then you will need to take some time and do some research to find out how you can live like a local.

Learn Some Language Basics

When visiting any country, it is a good idea if you learn some language basics beforehand. While English is spoken all over France, it would still be polite if you knew some basic words and phrases, so that you can ask for things or respond to people in a polite manner.

No one will expect you to be fluent in the language, but it can make a huge difference if you can ask for a drink in French or just simply say ‘please’ and ‘thank-you’. The great thing about learning a language in the modern age, is that there are so many helpful apps available that can teach you the basics beforehand. A lot of the apps may have translators too, so you can use the app while you are exploring.

Explore The History

Explore the history of France with interesting sites like the Catacombs

Explore the history of France with interesting sites like the Catacombs

France is a country that is rich in history, so if you are planning to travel there and you enjoy learning about history, then you should take the time to explore some of its most historic sites. The catacombs in Paris are one of the most popular historical sites to visit as there is still so much mystery surrounding them.

If you want to get the full experience, you can book a 45-minute tour that shows you all of the gruesome and grisly details of the catacombs. This tour is definitely not for the faint-hearted, but if you are into to the macabre, then it could be the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Paris.

There are few better gifts to give your child than the gift of the great outdoors. Teaching your children to love and respect nature is a lesson that will enrich them for the rest of their lives.

Backpacking, in particular, can be an ideal way to introduce children to outdoor life while making some extraordinary family memories. However, before you pack up the kids and bring them along on your next great backpacking adventure, there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind.

The Benefits of Starting Early

If you’re an experienced backpacker, then you know it’s nothing to be taken lightly. Backcountry hiking requires planning, skill, and conscientiousness.

However, even the shortest and simplest of excursions, such as the kind you’ll likely undertake with your little one, demands care. What you and your child will get in return for your efforts, though, is an unparalleled bonding experience, as well as the opportunity to show your child a side of life that is unimaginable in our tech-saturated world.

With time, even small children can experience the rewards of primitive camping. By being removed from the modern world of digital screens and creature comforts, children learn the art of self-reliance.

They are called upon to develop their powers of imagination and creative thinking. They learn to entertain themselves rather than being entertained by a gadget. In learning to pitch a tent, start a fire, or keep warm outdoors, they are cultivating essential problem-solving and logical reasoning skills. Best of all, immersion in nature provides them with the opportunity to learn about plants, animals, and the environment in a manner against which the classroom simply can’t compare.

In addition, the skills children develop while backpacking often also pave the way to other highly beneficial activities. Learning to handle and shoot guns safely is a terrific way to help children develop confidence, focus, and responsibility.

Start Small When Backpacking with Your Kids

Because the rewards of backpacking are so great, you are probably eager to jump feet-first. And while you certainly want your little one’s first experience to be an unforgettable one, it’s imperative to start small.

Plan for shorter distances and less demanding trails. If you’re planning to stay overnight with your little one, then you might consider opting for an established campground with easy access to the road.

As your child grows more accustomed to backpacking, you can plan for more ambitious hikes, longer distances, and more challenging terrain. As your child becomes more comfortable and confident in the woods, you can feel more secure in choosing more remote campsites, as it will be less likely that you’ll need to bring your little one out quickly.

Packing the Appropriate Gear while Backpacking with Children

Every backpacker knows that bringing the appropriate gear isn’t just a matter of convenience, it can also be a life or death difference. No hiking trip, regardless of how brief, should be undertaken without a fully-stocked first aid kit, one designed specifically for backpacking in the wilderness.

In addition, your child will need their own pack, but the weight of the child’s pack and its contents will depend largely on the age and size of the child. Toddlers under the age of four generally shouldn’t attempt to carry a pack. Indeed, you may end up spending most of the hike with the baby on your back!

Children who are between the ages of four and seven can usually manage a backpack weighing between two and four pounds. At this stage, kids should learn to make carrying water a habit, even for the shortest hikes. Other than water, some lightweight materials, such as a light blanket or a few snacks, can be included in your young child’s pack. For the most part, however, the greater part of your child’s gear should be included in your pack.

By the age of eight, kids are usually ready to start carrying most, if not all, of their own gear. However, the amount of gear a child can carry safely will depend on a range of factors, including the distance and speed at which you’re traveling, the difficulty of the hike, and the child’s body weight. A good rule of thumb is to limit the backpack to 15-20% of the child’s body weight.

Remember that Backpacking Risks Are Higher with Kids

Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when you are planning to take our child backpacking is that all the safety risks associated with the sport are amplified for children. Children have less muscle strength, gross motor skills, and hand-eye coordination than adults, making them more susceptible to stumbles and falls. They can also become dehydrated far more quickly than adults.

This makes accident prevention, pacing, and frequent rest periods to eat and drink essential when backpacking with children.

Backpacking with Kids: The Takeaway

Backpacking with your child can engender a love of the outdoors that lasts a lifetime. However, before you embark on your first wilderness adventure with your little one, there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind.

This selection of the top 8 backpacking books will make you want to travel the world, whether you’re just planning your next backpacking trip or an ambitious round-the-world adventure. These are the finest novels to read when traveling if you want to be inspired to go on amazing adventures and explore more. This collection is the best reading list of books for backpackers, with everything from romance to wanderlust novels.

The One Woman By Laura May

The One Woman - Backpacking ebook on Amazon

Get the eBook on Amazon

The One Woman, one of Laura May’s books, is a great book to read while backpacking, because it tells the story across multiple countries like Israel, Spain, Ukraine, and the USA. Julie, a graphic artist, is the main heroine of Laura May’s first LGBTQ romance book. Regrettably, we know little about Julie’s life or her partnership with Mark. That is, until she meets Ann. Web developer Ann is a kind and outgoing person. It is obvious that Julie has affections for Ann. The spark is genuine as their history and present converge in Barcelona. Julie will have to choose between her love for Ann and her allegiance to Mark when catastrophe strikes. Will true love last the distance? Read this book by writer Laura May to find out.

Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

Into the wild - one of the best backpacking ebooks

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A book about pushing one’s boundaries, cutting ties with society, and looking to nature and solitude for enlightenment. These are all the ingredients necessary to make a great book to read while backpacking.

The inquiry into the true tale of Chris McCandless, missing Alaskan wilderness hiker, whose SOS letter and skeletal remains were discovered months later, served as the inspiration for the book’s plot. One of the top books to read while backpacking.

Less by Andrew Sean Greer

Less by Andrew Sean Greer

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An unsuccessful novelist approaching his 50th birthday is Arthur Less. A nine-year ex-boyfriend who is engaged to another person sends him a wedding invitation in the mail. Both saying yes and saying no are out of the question for Arthur because doing so would be embarrassing and defeatist. So he starts to accept the invites to shoddy literary events that arrive on his desk from all over the world.

Arthur almost falls in love, almost dies, and travels from France to India, Germany to Japan, all the while putting distance between himself and the situation he doesn’t want to face. The book Less is about misunderstandings, accidents, and the depths of the human heart.

Meet Me in Paradise by Libby Hubscher

Meet me in Paradise - a great travel ebook

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Since her mother, a journalist, passed away while on the job, Marin has stayed within Tennessee, playing it safe. Sadie, her rambunctious younger sister, has traveled the world as a photographer while subsisting on art and adrenaline.

Marin reluctantly agrees to a sisters’ spa weekend on the tropical island of Saba after Sadie returns from a challenging job abroad and appears a little worse for wear. But when Sadie misses the flight, Marin’s luggage gets mixed up with another passenger’s, and a turbulence episode sends her crashing into the lap of Lucas Tsai, the attractive stranger who took her sister’s seat. As she and Lucas explore the island, Marin is forced to leave her comfort zone for the first time in a long time and discover what she’s been missing. Marin discovers more about herself, the man she’s falling for, and the agonizing reason she’s there with each breath-taking new encounter.

The Cloud Garden by Paul Winder and Tom Hart Dyke

The Cloud Garden ebook on Amazon

Get the eBook on Amazon

The Darien Gap is a legendary location. It’s the lone rest stop along the Pan-American Highway, which connects Alaska with the southernmost point of South America. The gap is frequently portrayed as a nearly impenetrable area of marsh, rainforest, and cloud forest home to FARC guerillas. It is a well known no-go zone for world backpackers everywhere.

This interesting book relates the tale of two unusual travelers who band together and attempt an on-foot crossing from Panama to Colombia. They had endured a difficult journey and are just hours away from victory when they are taken hostage by FARC insurgents and held captive for nine months in the bush.

People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry

People we meet on vacation - a great backpacking book

Get the eBook on Amazon

Alex and Poppy don’t have much in common. He’s dressed in khakis, she’s a free spirit. He loves to stay home with a book, whereas she has an insatiable need to travel. They have been the best of friends ever since a tragic car share from college many years ago. While she lives in New York City and he in the little town for the majority of the year, they have spent one wonderful week of vacation every summer for the past ten years.

Up until they wrecked everything two years ago. Since then, they haven’t spoken.

Poppy is in a rut despite having everything she should want. She is certain that the heartbreaking, last trip she took with Alex was the last time she felt completely content. In order to make everything right, she resolves to persuade her best buddy that they should go on one more vacation together. Amazingly, he consents.

One River By Wade Davis

One River by Wade Davis a great backpacking book

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This is the epic tale of two generations of South African scientists who have traveled the world. Wade Davis, the protégé of Professor Richard Evan Schultes, and he set out on a trip to study natural history. Schultes left Harvard and spent twelve years living among the locals in the Amazon while charting unexplored rivers. You’ll definitely be on the edge of your seat as you read this tale of devastation, treachery, discovery, and adventure. One of the best non-fiction adventure novels available, you must read this book before backpacking anyplace in the Amazon (Peru, Colombia, or Brazil).

Wild By Cheryl Strayed

Wild by Cheryl Strayed - one of the best books for backpackers

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A novel that became well-known as a result of the movie. But the book—trust me—is better. For those who are unaware of the storyline, Cheryl believed she had lost everything when she turned 22. Her family was dispersed, her mother had passed away, and her marriage had failed. She made the rash decision to trek alone on a quest over a thousand miles long because she thought she had nothing left to lose. While maintaining its style and suspense, this backpacking-themed book glistens with love and humor. Everything revolves around a journey that strengthened and healed a broken woman.


What books would you recommend reading while backpacking?

 

Pin The Best eBooks to Read While Backpacking

Pin The Best eBooks to Read While Backpacking

When people are looking for a summer holiday in Australia, it is more common to look along the East Coast and the Islands available. Can you believe there are over 900 Queensland Islands situated just off this 2000 kilometres stretch of land? Obviously, not all these Queensland islands are habited and not that easy to visit.

Some Queensland Islands are available to visit on a day trip, whereas others have accommodation and camping facilities for a weekend stay. Conveniently, most are located along the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef and are a brilliant way to explore underwater life. Today, we are bringing 10 amazing Queensland Islands to visit for a weekend, which are easy to get to and the most popular.

Note that is you have a small budget in mind, there are a couple of Queensland Islands that are better to visit for a weekend than others. However, as a whole with transfers and facilities available, the costs are higher than staying on mainland. Consequently, day trips and tours can be a more cost-effective way to get a taste of the Islands experiences, while keeping within a strict budget. 

The winter season in Australia runs from June to August, and the southern Queensland Islands are a touch cooler in the waters. Alternatively, the summer seasons are brilliant swimming weather, although there is more rain in the region. Therefore, it’s recommended to visit the Queensland Islands around your shoulder seasons in autumn and spring for a planned trip.

Lady Musgrave Island

Coral Reef Fish at Lady Musgrave Island

Coral Reef Fish at Lady Musgrave Island

You can day trip to Lady Musgrave Island from 1770/Agnes Water or Bundaberg, or extend your stay for a weekend. This visit to the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef and a great option for those not able to visit the northern region of Queensland. Boat trips take about 2 hours to get there, and the organised tours allow you to snorkel, view through a glass-bottom boat, and a small land tour.

If you’re travelling from Bundaberg, then there are options for diving the Coral Reefs and sleeping overnight on a purpose-built pontoon. The pontoon offers more room for day-trippers and a top deck for people soaking up the sun. Alternatively, the luxury glamping huts are a big hit for those after a romantic experience.

Snorkelling the reef is beyond amazing, with thousands of different fish and a brilliant spot for finding turtles all year round. The hard and soft corals provide protection for the smaller fish. You’ll also find larger fish hanging out under the large coral bommies.

North Stradbroke Island

Point Lookout North Stradbroke Island in Queensland

Point Lookout North Stradbroke Island in Queensland

The island of North Stradbroke lies 45 mins off the coast of the Queensland capital, Brisbane. This Queensland Island can be easy enough to visit on a day trip, but with so many different things to see and do, it’s better for a weekend. The Ferries can take any vehicles across to the Island, along with just the visitors using public transport. It’s the second-largest sand island in the world and has a permanent population of 2000 people.

While some of North Stradbroke Island will require a four-wheel drive to access the beaches, there are plenty of sealed roads and buses to help you get around. Conveniently, accommodation styles range from Backpacker hostels, caravan sites, beach camping, motel rooms, or Luxury homes.

Plenty of different beaches or places for swimming are on offer, with variety in the amount of surf and freshwater lakes. You can wander the small district and shop for local clothes, art or crafts, or pop into the bakery or café for meals and drinks.

Hamilton Island – The Most Popular of the Queensland Islands

Hamilton island, The Whitsunday Islands, Queensland

Hamilton island, The Whitsunday Islands, Queensland

Hamilton Island is located in the Whitsunday network, has easy access from Airlie Beach, and even has its own airport. It’s the perfect Queensland Island to visit for a weekend. There are no cars allowed on this Queensland Island, but visitors get around in golf buggies. There are a few different resorts to choose from, or you’ll find secluded holidays home available to rent. Great for a romantic holiday, or even get married there with a purpose-built Chapel.

There are several different activities to do with paddle boarding, snorkelling, and swimming around Catseye beach. Alternatively, you can laze the days away by relaxing on the beach in a lounge chair. Other than that, you can take advantage of the Whitsunday network, which provides ferries to other areas, including the famous Whitehaven Beach or Hill Inlet.

Lady Elliot Island

Lady Elliot Island from the air, Queensland

Lady Elliot Island from the air, Queensland

Lady Elliot Island can only be accessed by plane from either Gold Coast, Brisbane, Hervey Bay, or the closest to Bundaberg. Many will visit this stunning Queensland Island on a day trip of snorkelling fun, or stay in the Eco-friendly resort, for a longer weekend stay. Furthermore, they have a sustainability program set up to ensure the coral cay and the southern Great Barrier Reef area is preserved for many years to come.

It’s all about the water activities with snorkelling, diving, or walking through the reef at low tide. You’ll find many turtles swimming around with you, along with reef sharks and Manta Rays (in Season). On land, you can explore the local bird habitat and the long history behind Lady Elliot Island itself.

Bribie Island – The Most Accessible of the Queensland Islands

Bribie Island National Park in Queensland, Australia

Bribie Island National Park in Queensland, Australia

Bribie Island happens to be one of the easiest Queensland islands to visit for a weekend, with the fact you can actually drive there. It’s located off the coast of North Brisbane and separated by the mainland by the Bribie Island Bridge. This means there is a large in-built community and a population of over 16 thousand people.

Most people will visit Bribie for the quiet laidback atmosphere, while also being the best beach so close to Brisbane City. You have the west coast facing the mainland with quiet low-key waters. On the other hand, the east coast faces the Pacific Ocean and often has the surf.

The kids will love experiencing the butterfly house, especially on a bright sunny day. There is also a large golf course, four-wheel driving areas through the National Park, or a place to hire water equipment like paddle boards. The Museum will help you learn about Bribie Island’s history, or you can just sit by the beach, watching the sunrise.

Daydream Island

Lagoon Pool At DayDream Island, Queensland

Lagoon Pool At DayDream Island, Queensland

Daydream Island can be accessed by ferry from Airlie Beach and is also part of the Whitsunday Network of Islands. It’s one of the smaller Queensland islands to visit for a weekend but doesn’t disappoint with its facilities. Everywhere on this Queensland Island can be walked within 30 minutes, whether it’s along the beach or through the bushland. Their rooms offer a tranquil setting with views of gardens or oceans.

A coral lagoon has been set up and makes it easier to experience the underwater creatures, especially for young children. It’s home to over 100 species of fish, starfish, sea cucumbers, and crabs. Not only that, but there is a landscaped pool that meanders through the gardens allowing the visitors to swim in the tropical settings.

Heron Island – Turtle Nesting in the Queensland Islands

Turtle Hatchlings at Heron Island, Queensland

Turtle Hatchlings at Heron Island, Queensland

Heron Island is located in central Queensland and can be accessed by helicopter or catamaran from Gladstone. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a Queensland Island to visit for a weekend trip. The more popular boat option leaves 5 days a week and takes about 2 hours to arrive in this island paradise. Currently, the resort will cater to several different room types, from budget to the more luxurious. They can also cater discounts for large groups, weddings, and even business conferences.  

Apart from the obvious water activities, Heron Island is known for its turtle nesting population. This means you can see Turtles all year round in the nearby coral reef waters. However, you can witness their Turtle nesting season from November to March each year.

Apart from that, Heron Island has a long history from being a turtle cannery in the 1920s and finally listed as a National Park in 1943. There is a large bird habitat on the island and many different tours help you learn about the Great Barrier Reef and its surrounding.

K’Gari/Fraser Island

Fraser Island views from Indian Head, Queensland

Fraser Island views from Indian Head, Queensland

The beautiful K’Gari or otherwise known as Fraser Island, is the largest sand island in the world. It can be accessed by a barge from either Hervey Bay or Inskip Point near Rainbow Beach. It’s hugely popular for the locals as a four-wheel drive and camping location but also loved by the tourists for its unique sites.

Conveniently, Fraser Island is easy enough to visit for the weekend, with one or two-day tours and staying in the resort accommodation. Others will stay for an extended weekend or longer in the many camping locations or holiday homes. Either way, you going to witness many different sites that you can’t see anywhere else in the world.

These include a rainforest growing in the sand at the highest altitude and freshwater streams flowing through the forest for swimming. Not only that but the Pinnacles Rock formation, champagne rock pools, and the SS Maheno Shipwreck that’s slowly eroding away.

Moreton Island

Tangalooma Wreck, Moreton Island Queensland

Tangalooma Wreck, Moreton Island Queensland

Moreton Island Lies 1.5 hours off the coast of Brisbane and is the third-largest sand island in the world. Most people will visit the Tangalooma Island Resort for the weekend and enjoy the activities it provides. However, the biggest draw card would be the nightly dolphin visit, where you can get up close to these wild creatures.

The Resort provides many different styles of accommodation, from budget to luxury, as well as a restaurant, bar, and activities & tour booking centre. You can visit this Queensland Island for a day, but we recommend at least an overnight stay to experience most of the sites over a weekend.

Obviously being a sand island, there are four-wheel-drive tours that take you tobogganing, or snorkelling/ diving tours to explore the 14 different shipwrecks. Jet skis can be hired, kayaks, paddleboards, or even Quad bikes or Helicopter tours. Consequently, at the end of the day and with the resort facing west, it’s a magnificent spot to watch a sunset.

Magnetic Island

Arthur Bay, Magnetic Island near Townsville

Arthur Bay, Magnetic Island near Townsville

It takes 30 minutes to access Magnetic Island off the coast of Townsville in North Queensland. Conveniently, you can choose to take your own vehicle to the Island or hire one when you get there. Not only that, but with a population of more than 2000 people, there is an in-built community with plenty of sealed roads.

There are luxury-style hotels with marina and beach views, a hostel with its own private beach, and lots of Airbnb options. With the multiple ferry times, you can access the Island for at least 9 hours of fun and exploration.

The beaches and water activities are always on offer with any Queensland Island you visit. However, Magnetic Island does contain a few different hiking trails and uniquely one that explores WWII remnants and sees the local koala Wildlife, making it a perfect Queensland Island for a weekend trip. Additionally, every evening the allied rock wallabies start jumping around at Geoffrey’s Bay, which makes for an exciting display to see in the wild.


I hope this helps you plan which Queensland Islands to visit for a weekend when traveling Australia. I’m sure there is one suited just for you, and you won’t regret your visit.

 

10 Amazing Queensland Islands You Need to Visit

Pin 10 Amazing Queensland Islands You Need to Visit