As the cost of living becomes increasingly challenging, Australians have been finding new ways to get out and about without burning too large of a hole in their wallets.
How creative can we get, though? Being selective about your weekend excursions and utilising existing services like Westpac’s new Pay with Points feature through the Westpac Altitude Card can make for a winning combination. The goal is to continue being a social butterfly while spending like a reclusive, cocooned caterpillar.
So how does it work? You'll need to switch it on in the Westpac App to activate it for your next purchase or for all eligible purchases. You’ll need at least $3 of points available and can use Pay with Points anywhere Mastercard® is accepted. Then, begin to shop, spend with your Altitude Rewards card on any purchase of $3 or more. You’ll get a credit back for the amount of points used.
The most crucial element of cost-cutting, however, is intel: taking advantage of the free or cheaper experiences can be more about who you know and who you speak to. For instance, if you need a coffee to fuel your stroll around the CBD, you can head to a cafe that accepts Mastercard and tap to get your caffeine hit using your Altitude Rewards Points.
Every city has something to offer, so we’ve leaned on Urban List's editors to give you those juicy, affordable recommendations.
The Best For Less In Your City:
Melbourne
Melbourne’s famously walkable CBD is designed to be traversed for less. Navigate the city’s grid via free trams or a brisk stroll, making occasional pit stops to visit its lush, green parks and constant rotation of free exhibitions.
The Ian Potter Centre
For a day well spent, the NGV is the way to go. Not only does it host stellar after-hours events but it's stacked roster of exhibitions are always an exciting and immersive low cost day out. Explore The Ian Potter Centre and their My Country installation which sees First Nations artists and designers linking up with leading industry mentors to collaboratively create stunning pieces of work.
“It's always worth popping your head into NGV, the exhibitions are always insightful."
—Lara, Melbourne Editor
THE DETAILS
What: NGV’s Ian Potter Centre
When: 10am-5pm daily (excluding Christmas Day)
Where: 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006
Cost: While certain exhibitions at the NGV are ticketed, the Ian Potter Centre is free
The City Circle Tram & Surroundings
If you're in the mood to play tourist in your home city, a spin on the vintage City Circle Tram is a must. Jump aboard the heritage line to hit Melbourne Museum, Flinders Street Station, Federation Square, Melbourne Aquarium and the Queen Victoria Market all in a day.
"The beauty of Melbourne is in the little things and if you're in the heart of the city this trip won't cost you a dime and will take you around all the major spots.”
—Lara, Melbourne Editor
THE DETAILS
What: City Circle Tram
When: The City Circle Trams run every 12 minutes from 10am to 6pm, Sunday to Wednesday, and 10am to 9pm, Thursday to Saturday
Where: Flinders Street Station, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000
Cost: Free
Sydney
Home to some of the country's most internationally recognised landmarks, how much you spend in Australia's busiest city really depends on what type of day you want to have. For minimal spending, pack a robust picnic and soak in the stunning sights, famous beaches and lively pop-up activations.
Carriageworks Farmers Markets
Markets are a surefire way to turnaround any weekend, and Carriageworks Saturday markets have to be some of our favourite in the city. Make the most of your day experiencing Sydney's culinary scene, sampling your way through the freshest seasonal produce and artisanal delights from local growers and producers across NSW.
“Spending a Saturday at Carriageworks Farmers Markets is a great way to make the most of the city while also stocking up on local and gourmet treats.”
—Georgia, Sydney Deputy Editor
THE DETAILS
What: Carriageworks Farmers Markets
When: Every Saturday 8am—1pm
Where: 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh NSW 2015
Cost: Free entry
Perth
Perth is the ideal family holiday destination: kids can access many places for a significant discount (or completely free), parents can take their kids to the natural wonders circling the city centre, and its coastal ambience oozes relaxation—you can’t put a price on serenity but it’s free here, too.
Perth Cultural Centre
If you're a little skint but want to feel like you've actually done something big, you can't beat a day in the Perth Cultural Centre exploring the free experiences on offer.
"You can tick off the The Cultural Centre, Art Gallery Of WA and PICA (Perth Institute of Contemporary Art) for free. For lunch, you can pull into Picabar, grab a seat outside and smash one of their steak sandwich and pint or wine deals. Day sorted!”
—Claire, Perth Editor
THE DETAILS
What: Perth Cultural Centre
When: Daily
Where: Roe Street, Beaufort Street Francis Street &, William St, Northbridge WA 6003
Cost: varies depending on venue
Brisbane
The money you save by not having to pay for heating year-round can be put to good use in Brisbane. It’s time to take off your hermit hat and lean into a savvy, social lifestyle.
Cineplex
When was the last time you saw a movie for 10 dollars? Well, if you live in Brisbane, the answer is likely much more recent than people living in most other cities. The local Cineplex screenings in South Bank, Hawthorne, and Bulimba have maintained that super affordable price tag so you can see the latest movies for less.
“My favourite budget day out is hitting the South Bank Cineplex for a back-to-back movie session, with a cheap feed from somewhere around South Bank. It takes me back to my uni days!”
—Ranyhyn, Brisbane Editor
THE DETAILS
What: Cineplex Cinema
When: Daily
Where: Various Locations.
Cost: $10 tickets for adults
Mt Coot-Tha Botanic Gardens
Situated a short 20-minute drive from Brisbane’s CBD, Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens is an attractive, achievable option—especially if you’re on a shoestring budget. Entry to the hypnotising grounds is completely free and everywhere you look resembles something out of a Monet painting.
“Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens has an amazing bonsai garden, a stunning greenhouse dome, walks up to the summit, and it’s all totally free.”
—Ranyhyn, Brisbane Editor
THE DETAILS
What: Mt Coot-Tha Botanic Gardens
When: Daily
Where: 152 Mount Coot-Tha Rd, Mount Coot-Tha QLD 4066
Cost: Free
If you haven’t already, look into Westpac’s Pay with Points feature to help maintain that social butterfly status—life’s too short to be tucked away in bed all weekend. Use your Altitude points anywhere and everywhere Mastercard is accepted*.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Westpac and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.
Image: Urban List.
*T&Cs, minimum balance requirements, eligibility and credit criteria apply. Available where Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard® is a registered trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. Credit provided by Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.