The Ashes are back, and the excitement is building for what promises to be another unforgettable series Down Under. For travelling fans, Australia offers not just world-class cricket but an adventure filled with iconic stadiums, buzzing cities, and unforgettable Barmy Army memories.
We’ve been travelling Down Under for the past 30 years, so we’re well experienced in what preparations need to be done before you travel! Before you make the trip across the globe, there are a few essential steps to ensure your trip goes smoothly. From visas and e-sims to transport and travel insurance, careful preparation can make all the difference between a seamless tour and avoidable headaches.
In this guide, we’ve put together 10 key things every travelling fan should do before heading to Australia for the upcoming Ashes series – so you can focus on what really matters: getting behind the lads, enjoying the spectacle, and creating memories that will last long after the last ball is bowled.
Sort your visa before you leave
If you have not already applied for, and received, your visa, please do this as soon as possible. Your own personal circumstances will determine which visa to apply for, however, the majority of British citizens can usually apply for the following type of electronic visitor visa here: Australia eVisa Application
The Australian Department of Home Affairs has information on all other types of visas here.
Download Sim Local
These days, staying online is almost as important as knowing your cover drive from your reverse sweep — and that’s where a travel eSIM comes in. Instead of fiddling with physical SIM cards or worrying about roaming charges, an eSIM lets you connect to Australian networks digitally before you even land.
Providers like Sim Local make it simple: choose a plan online, scan the QR code, and your phone is ready to go. Coverage is strong across all major cities, so you can navigate stadiums, check match updates, and share your post-match plans without interruption!
An eSIM is also a game-changer for flexibility. You can select a data-only plan or a full package with calls and texts, and adjust your plan based on how long you’re staying or how much you plan to use your phone. No more hunting for local SIM cards or worrying about running out of credit mid-tour — everything is digital and manageable from your phone.
Even better, use code ‘BARMY10’ for 10% off your order. Click here for full details.
Book your airport parking
Let’s face it — the last thing you want before a long-haul flight is the stress of finding parking. Circling the airport car park with luggage in tow is not the kind of warm-up anyone needs before heading to Australia for the Ashes. Pre-booking your parking through Holiday Extras takes that worry off your plate, letting you focus on the excitement ahead.
Airport parking isn’t just about convenience; it’s about peace of mind. Knowing your car is safe and waiting for you when you return means one less thing to stress about during a packed tour. Plus, with long-haul flights, early arrivals are often recommended — and having a reserved parking space ensures you don’t waste time hunting for a spot.
Click here to book using the exclusive Barmy Army webpage.
Travel Insurance
Before you jet off to Australia, make sure you’ve got comprehensive travel insurance sorted. Long-haul flights, stadium adventures, and city explorations come with unexpected risks — from lost luggage and delayed flights to medical emergencies. Having the right insurance ensures you can handle any curveballs without breaking the bank.
It’s also worth reviewing the small print carefully. Some policies have limits on extreme sports, pre-existing conditions, or certain high-value items. Make sure your chosen plan aligns with your itinerary — whether you’re planning city sightseeing, coastal adventures, or attending multiple Tests across different states.
Barmy Army members can get 10% off at Admiral Travel Insurance, using the Barmy Army member rewards platform!
Click here to purchase your travel insurance.
Get rewarded with The Pass
If you’re a fan travelling Down Under, The Pass app is the perfect companion for every pint and post-match celebration! The Pass is a pub and bar loyalty app earning you rewards on every order and unlocking member-only offers at over 200 venues across Australia.
Here’s why every cricket fan should have it:
- Free to download and easy to join
- $10 off your first order
- Exclusive 10% discount for Barmy Army Members
- Earn 10 points for every $1 spent
Travelling for The Ashes isn’t just about cricket – it’s about the full experience. With The Pass, you can maximise your time, discover the best Aussie pubs, earn rewards, and never be far from a cracking pint.
Thanks to The Pass, there truly is a venue for everyone in Australia – whether you want to be in a lively atmosphere or prefer somewhere more quiet.
Download the app, plan your pub crawl, and let the Barmy Army spirit thrive from Perth to Sydney.
Click here to download The Pass.
Plan your excursions
The Ashes isn’t just about the cricket — it’s about the experience. Beyond the boundary ropes, Australia offers a wealth of adventures waiting to be explored. Whether you’re keen to dive into the Great Barrier Reef, take a scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road, or immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Melbourne, there’s an excursion tailored for every Barmy Army fan.
To make your planning seamless, the Barmy Army has partnered with Travello, Australia’s leading tour operator, to offer a curated selection of excursions. These experiences are designed to complement your Ashes tour, ensuring you get the most out of your time Down Under.
Why Book with Barmy Army & Travello?
- Exclusive Discount: Use code barmy20 to receive $20 off your first booking, making your adventures even more affordable.
- Tailored Experiences: From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, choose excursions that align with your interests and schedule.
- Easy Booking: Browse and book directly through the Barmy Army Ashes Excursions page, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Due to the peak season, these excursions will not be available to book once you arrive. It’s advisable to book early to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Carry a Photo ID
Both Queensland (Brisbane) and New South Wales (Sydney) have strict policies on ID’ing people when entering pubs and bars. You may not be able to enter certain licensed premises, such as bars or nightclubs, including to Barmy Army event venues, without a valid photo ID (passport or driving license) even if you clearly are over the required age.
For this reason it is worthwhile taking your driving license to Australia so that you do not have to carry your passport to prove you are old enough to enter a venue.
Sort Your Money
Australia is largely card-friendly, with most shops, restaurants, and transport services accepting contactless debit and credit cards. That said, it’s wise to carry a small amount of AUD cash for markets, tipping, or smaller vendors that may not take cards.
Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid your cards being blocked, and consider bringing a backup card in case of emergencies. Check fees for international withdrawals or transactions to avoid unnecessary charges — every dollar saved can go toward snacks, souvenirs, or a post-match pint.
For budgeting, plan for daily expenses plus extras. Having a mix of cash and cards gives flexibility and peace of mind, so you can enjoy the Ashes experience without worrying about being caught short.
Secure Your Online Presence with NordVPN
As you travel across Australia to support England in the Ashes, it’s essential to protect your online activities, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks in airports, hotels, and stadiums. NordVPN, the Barmy Army’s official cybersecurity partner, offers a reliable solution to safeguard your personal information and maintain privacy while online.
By subscribing through the Barmy Army’s dedicated link, you can enjoy an exclusive deal, including extra subscription time. Simply use the code BARMYARMY at checkout to unlock this offer.
Why Choose NordVPN?
- Global Server Network: Access thousands of ultra-fast servers across 165 locations worldwide, ensuring a stable connection wherever you are.
- Advanced Security Features: Utilize Threat Protection Pro™ to block malware, trackers, and ads, even when you’re not connected to a VPN.
- Enhanced Privacy: Benefit from features like Meshnet and Dark Web Monitor to further secure your online presence.
Click here to set up your NordVPN account.
Book Your Barmy Army Events
The Ashes isn’t just about cricket — it’s about the unforgettable experiences off the field too. The Barmy Army offers a packed schedule of official events across all five Test cities. From lively parties to scenic brunches, these gatherings are designed to immerse you in the Barmy Army spirit and make your trip truly memorable.
- Ultimate Ashes Parties: Celebrate the highs and lows of the Test matches with fellow fans.
- Pre-Test Parties: Build the excitement before each Test begins.
- Barmy Brunch: Enjoy a relaxed start to the day with good food and great company.
- Christmas Day Lunch (Melbourne only): Celebrate the festive season with fellow supporters.
- New Year’s Eve Parties (Melbourne & Sydney): Ring in the new year in true Barmy Army style.
- River Cruises (Perth): Experience the city from a unique vantage point before heading to the stadium.
Many of these events are included in the Barmy Army Travel Packages, but individual tickets are also available for those who prefer to book separately. With options ranging in price, there’s something for every budget. Tickets can be purchased through the Barmy Army Ashes Events page.
Other things to consider
Pack a Travel Adapter: Australia uses Type I plugs, which feature two flat, angled pins and a third vertical grounding pin so you will need a travel adapter to use UK plugs in Australia.
Through your Barmy Army Membership, you have access to 5% off Currys and WH Smith and 4% off Argos. Click here to access the Member Rewards Platform.
