Our new fixed tours are your ultimate Aussie & Kiwi adventure!

Looking back on the days when searching for hop-on/hop-off tours was all the rage, it felt like discovering a viral TikTok track from the pre-pandemic era. It was a vibe for the ages! But let’s face it, after the rollercoaster ride of the past few years, the rhythm of travel has shifted completely. It’s time to upgrade and groove to a new beat. Say goodbye to endless itinerary planning – leave that to the experts who know how to hit all the right notes. Swipe right on our lineup of action-packed bus tours in Australia and New Zealand. This isn’t just travel; it’s the ultimate playlist for your next top-charting adventure. Let’s make your journey the trend everyone is vibing to!

The magic of ADVENTURE and SELECT

Introducing ADVENTURE and SELECT, two brand-new tour categories in both Australia and New Zealand. This is the future of bus tours. Expand your horizons and embrace the #StraySpirit. Let’s break down what we mean by naming these tour categories ADVENTURE and SELECT.

ADVENTURE Tours

These new ADVENTURE tours are all about ‘more’. More fun, more thrills, more conversations with new friends after a day of adventure, and more tour days. We’ve taken bus tours to the next level. Unleash your adventurous side and let your spirit roam free with our new ADVENTURE Tours in Australia and New Zealand.

Immerse yourself in shared dorm-style accommodations and gear up for unforgettable activities. Experience the essence of Aussie or Kiwi wanderlust while forming bonds that will last a lifetime. ADVENTURE Tours are the upgraded version of our renowned backpacker tours, with all the hip vibes and none of the hopping around. No need to worry about where to stop or what to do – just sit back and relax. We’ll take care of the driving, and when the bus stops, you know it’s time for adventure. These tours are packed with breathtaking scenery, excitement, and fun.

Whether you opt for an Aussie ADVENTURE or a Kiwi ADVENTURE, you can expect a lineup of amazing activities and fun. In Australia, you’ll explore waterfalls, rainforests, sailing, and wildlife spotting, such as a 4WD Safari to K’gari (formerly Fraser Island), discovering the stunning Whitsunday Islands, and visiting Magnetic Island, a wildlife haven with koalas and wallabies. In New Zealand, activities like the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour, Lake Aniwhenua Cultural Experience, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Abel Tasman National Park, and a Milford Sound Cruise are among the highlights of these new ADVENTURE Tours. The specific activities included depend on the chosen ADVENTURE Tour. Compare our tours now and get ready for an adventure.

SELECT Tours

If you love adventure with a touch of luxury, our SELECT Tours are perfect for you. This is where comfort meets excitement. Relax in 3-4 star twin accommodations after a day of immersive, must-do activities. Immerse yourself in the essence of Australia or New Zealand with experiences that go beyond the typical tourist spots.

SELECT Tours are designed for travelers who have outgrown the traditional backpacker routes but still crave that adventurous spirit – because the journey never truly ends! If dorms no longer appeal to you and you prefer a bit more privacy, seeking that extra level of comfort and a more relaxed way of traveling, SELECT Tours are the way to go. You don’t want to miss out on thrills and incredible activities just because your preferences have evolved. And so have our tours, introducing SELECT Tours.

Embark on activities like experiencing the geothermal wonders of Geyser by Night and a 4WD Eco Safari at the remote Blue Duck Station in New Zealand; or exploring the untouched southern Great Barrier Reef at Lady Musgrave Island and delving into the fascinating Aboriginal Culture in Australia. Explore our SELECT Tours in Australia or opt for SELECT in New Zealand.

And what about hop-on/hop-off? Will it make a comeback?

As we’ve discussed in a previous blog post, our Freestyle Passes, also known as the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Network, are currently on hold as we focus on these exciting new Stray Journeys tours that cater to the needs of modern travelers and new-style backpackers – offering epic adventures with everything included, without the hassle of planning everything yourself!

But you may wonder, why are we keeping hop-on/hop-off tours on hold when other companies still offer them? The answer is simple…

The challenges of hop-on/hop-off tours

You may be enticed by the freedom that hop-on/hop-off tours promise, but beware of the potential pitfalls lurking beneath the surface. Let’s explore why they may not be the golden ticket they appear to be:

• Summer Crowds: Picture this: you’re enjoying the sun, soaking in the local culture, and suddenly – BAM! – every bus is packed to the brim. Summer turns these buses into overcrowded sardine cans, leaving you stranded and waiting for a vacant seat. Talk about a summer buzzkill!
• The Paradox of Choice: Yes, flexibility is key, but too many options can be overwhelming. Travelers often find themselves playing the role of their own travel agent, drowning in logistics and losing the spontaneity of their journey. Instead of “hop-on/hop-off,” it starts to feel more like “stop-and-stress.”
• DIY Overload: The real challenge begins after you hop off. From searching for budget-friendly accommodation to navigating from bus stops to your chosen stay, or simply deciding on your next move – it becomes a never-ending cycle of to-dos. The thrill of adventure? Replaced by the anxiety of planning.
• Stress & Anxiety Overload: Ever had those sleepless nights, wondering if you’ve bitten off more than you can chew? That’s often the experience of a hop-on/hop-off traveler. The idea of freedom transforms into a daunting checklist, replacing excitement with anxiety about budgeting and expenses.

The Stray solution: seamless, stress-free tours!

Fortunately, there’s a silver lining. Dive into our new fixed tours, where adventure meets convenience and spontaneity receives a structured twist. Why struggle with the complexities of planning when you can sail smoothly with us? Rest assured that most of your adventure is already paid for – you just need spending money for extra meals, drinks, and a few optional activities – so you can relax and truly live in the moment!

• Private Coaches: Say goodbye to crowded buses. Travel in style and comfort with our exclusive transportation.
• Curated Itineraries: Enjoy the best of both worlds – structured plans when needed, and freedom and free time to explore when desired.
• Comfortable Accommodations: Skip the accommodation hunt. We’ve selected cozy accommodations just for you.
• Culinary Delights: Get ready for a flavorful journey with included breakfasts and some meals.
• Small Groups: Form deeper connections in intimate groups, creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime.

Why settle for less when you can have it all? Choose peace of mind, choose adventure, choose value for your money. Leave the stress behind and embrace the excitement and #StrayTheRightWay!

You only need to decide between exploring Australia or New Zealand, as our fantastic new tour categories have been launched in both countries (with slight variations between Aussie and Kiwi tours). Here’s some help in making that decision.

Reasons to dive into New Zealand head-first

Yes, we’re talking about bungy jumping – New Zealand is where it all began. But there’s so much more… nestled amidst snow-capped mountains, ethereal beaches, glaciers, and rugged coastline, New Zealand is like a page from a fairy tale come to life. The #StrayWay promises a unique, off-the-grid journey through the wonders of Kiwiland.

Explore the new Kiwi ADVENTURE Tours or the SELECT Tours in New Zealand. We can’t wait to see your smiling faces on board.

Australia: where weather, wildlife, and culture collide

Australia – where golden beaches meet iconic landmarks and lush rainforests. From the glamour of Sydney to the tropical allure of Cairns, every corner holds a story. Stray is the only company that will take you through this majestic coastline with exclusive private buses, venturing off the beaten path to ensure each memory is uniquely yours.

Whether you choose an Aussie SELECT Tour or an Australian ADVENTURE Tour, we’ll create magic together. We look forward to welcoming you on board.