Moved to Forum: Original Link
For the cheap, and not-so-lazy…
If you walk 1.5km from Sydney Airport Domestic Terminal to Mascot (train) Station you can catch the same train for $3.80 instead of the original $16.40 that Airport Link want.
So, effectively you are getting paid $8.40 per kilometre walking.
How is this a bargain? You have to walk with luggage in tow. It's not practical. If you were to take a taxi, you might as well have taken the train all the way, with the flagfall…
Why not just walk all the way? Then it's free.
Haha.. If you have a big group of people and not much luggage, saving $12.60 per person is not worthwhile? :)
if you have a group of people, you might as well have hired a vehicle of some sort. Keep in mind, if you were to head to the city in a taxi using O'Riordan St, it would cost you around $30 or so - probably a lot quicker and not much more than the walk to train option.
I work near at Domestic Airport and I bike it between Mascot station and work. Surprisingly, there are people who actually walk it with their luggage. I wouldn't be bothered to be honest. I would just catch the 400 bus to the station nearest where you want to go (Mascot, Rockdale, Arncliffe, Bondi Junction, Campsie, Burwood).
The 400 is definitely the way to go. Train from city to Mascot, then bus to terminals.
Hey Bruce, I'm not from Sydney, so plz enlighten me on Sydney PT. do I need two tickets, one for the bus and one for the train if I train from city to mascot, then the 400 to terminal? If not, what ticket do I buy?
Yes, unless you have opal, you need to buy a separate bus and train ticket.
@cloudy:
I am lucky/unlucky enough to get concession ticket so 1 ticket for trip from anywhere in Sydney region cost $2.50/day when I visited last year. 400 bus goes to Bondi Junction.
Just check timetables. Buses to/from airport operate all except the wee hours of the night. Great service.
Flew from Brisbane on $10 Jetstar flights, so didn't want to pay more than that just for short hop into city.
Luckily I can travel to the Brisbane airport from southern Brisbane for about $1.50 (590 bus), with free shuttle bus from DFO/Skygate.
So under $14 from home in Brisbane to Sydney CBD. Quite a good deal :-)
@cloudy:
Google map mate, the best!
It has a feature all app makers and developers of all sort of navigators and route finders including government approved apps and agencies, they use it all
It called "Get Direction"
In app store, Google play or web base Google map
It is free!
Use it
only problem with 400 is that its less frequent than the train (i think).
Waited about 25mins last weekend, but was much cheaper.
I like your enthusiasm but the deal isn't going to last long on here. Keep it up though.
Is the $3.80 price cheaper than it normally would be?
Moved to forum… where it should be!!!
It's the same scenario with the McDonalds deals, isn't it?
Personally speaking, yes… Unless it's actualy on special as in the $1 cheeseburgers!!!
lol this is like getting off the bus a few stops earlier to save a few cents and having to walk 15mins further as a result.
Time is money as they say, but if you must YMMV.
You can get a 76.8% discount by simply walking 1500m. How is this really any different to the amount of legwork people do here to save a few cents on an online purchase? ;)
There is legwork and then there is 'legwork'…. Like on the old ads for the Yellow Pages - one didn't physically walk on their fingers
Many people pay for "legwork" at the gym. So this suggestion saves more than just an expensive station fee.
Taking a short stroll after sitting on a flight is quite refreshing. I enjoy it, but now take the cheap bus.
Hauling a suitcase 1.5km takes the sweetness off the saving…
… otherwise a good idea, exercise and save as well .. win win.
@xywolap:
I travel a lot (usually 9 months a year overseas) on a minimal budget, so travel light. 7-10kg carry on is usual (sometimes including camping gear & tent) & have not used a suitcase since I was a kid, so 1.5km is a relaxing stroll for me.
Travelling light gives me the greatest possibilities - choices.
Travelling too cheap can mean arriving tired or late which can ruin a good holiday, etc - is just not worth the problems.
I run a quick cost-benefit/pleasure analysis & never rule out pretty well any possibility, no matter what the cost. (eg If I hear of a restaurant serving great local specialties, I will not worry about the expense on my travels, as paying to come back will cost far more.) But the cheapest option often wins.
So I recommend taking the bus & train for optimal cheapness, without much hassle. It just takes a little longer.
Just enjoy.
@brucefromaustralia:
Agree with a lot of what you said. The amount of times I've returned home and thought to myself "why the hell didn't I spend the money at the time" is beyond me! But in saying that, I now refuse to walk for miles in 40º heat & 80% humidity just to save $10! (I will walk through the snow though, as that's still a novelty for me!)
But in all honesty, most of the best experiences come from doing it on the cheap, or as the locals do!
@Snoop:
Like the cut of your jib, Snoop.
Sitting with locals sharing same food is wonderful. A good way to make new friends (& often a free feed).
As for walking in hot humid locations rather than the often cheap transport - it's better to pay the money, & arrive refreshed instead of needing a shower. Strangely in places like KL, its only Foreigners walking at midday in the parks - locals take taxis with a/c.
It's also a luxury not to have to do my own (hand) washing when someone will do it for me. I can be so cheap.
It's a bit neurotic always to want to take the cheapest option.
So I'll take the 400 bus.
@brucefromaustralia:
Ha… KL! Well yes, guilty! That, and to avoid the 2pm down pour / flash flooding!
Clever. AirportLink is ridiculously expensive. I'll do this next time I'm in Syd.
Of course its expensive it's owned by Westpac.
There is also the 400 Bus which may be useful and much cheaper than the train.
Cheers! I will be doing this in my next trip next month!
Catch the 400 Bus. No station fee.
+1 Catch the 400 at Rockdale or Banksia or near Mascot station
Or at the airport itself.
Good one OP, I think it's definitely a "deal", for some. These days a lot of the budget flights are "carry on luggage only" (or pay extra for stowed luggage), and a lot of peeps travelling for business would go to Sydney and back (or leave it and return) all in a day; thus carrying only a brief-case/ small bag, if anything much at all (memory-stick/ tablet?).
Now factor in that a lot of peeps like to walk a bit each day, and that 1.5 km is very doable (not to mention healthy); particularly after a long meeting + plane flight. The "time is money" comment does not apply to those peeps.
Also factor in that some peeps get a flat rate to compensate themself for "associated travel expenses", if they have to travel interstate for work, that they are allowed to utilise any way that they like. For these peeps, the "time is money" comment also does not apply.
What's the comparable option for Melbourne Airport I wonder? I hate the shameless money gouging that goes on there; it's nothing but government-sanctioned extortion.
5 peeps in one post. Good effort.
Sky bus isn't gov owned, but the one-day built train link will be…
There is a bus that can be used with normal myki zone 1 + 2 ticket. Saves about $10. Search the forums
It's either 901, 902, 903. Takes about 2 hours though. Definitely a good choice if you got the time anyway as u pretty much don't have to walk or transit once you jump on the bus. I've never personally tried it though.
Sydney airport has been constructed to be a cash grab airport. It is easy to walk to the airport but they intentionally removed the footpaths. They intentionally agreed with the airport link to only have 1 bus line to the airport. Insane parking fees.
Some people here already do this. I did this a couple of times and it's feasible if you are only flying with hand luggage. But it's always been available, hence it isn't a deal.
When did 'always available' mean something is not a deal? And why don't 'some people here' post about it then?
Don't take it personally. Check the definition of a deal in the wiki.
It's been mentioned before, probably in the forums. Not everybody knows everything, so if you think it isn't well publicised, then post in the forums not in the deals.
Keep up the good work mate…Ignore all the do gooders here being judge jury and executioner. I appreciate this 'Deal"
I personally encourage more posts like these. They are general ways to save money not just "one off, get it before it sells out" bargains. Even though some people know about it, a lot of people like me, don't. Thanks OP for sharing. Next time I'm in Sydney I just might save myself $12.60.
Yup. Unconventional ways to save money are always good.
Like cheezal's cheap McFlurry, MelbBargainChaser77's cheap McChicken, Justing197's cheap McNuggets.
Catching a public bus is unconventional???
Do you consider walking to be "catching a public bus" ????
And yes, to many people the idea of walking to/from the airport would be unconventional.
hahahaha. Thanks for that
Yup, annoying how Snoop picked on this awesome post with a somewhat condescending comment, yet all these McCrap deals are considered great bargains when they too are the standard price. Personally, I think the McShit deals are no bargain. Paying to eat that crap is no deal.
Snoop on 19/08/2014 - 16:42
Is the $3.80 price cheaper than it normally would be?
Moved to forum… where it should be!!!
Yes, I've tried this myself. I walked from Wolli Creek to the international terminal and it took around 20 minutes.
Definitely not an easy walk with heavy luggage.
But I saved a decent amount of money.
If someone has you by the balls (especially if they are in someones mouth with teeth) you don't decide to go walking, its not safe
but if your going to screw da man, well hell yes! 1.5k isn't too bad, unless you get hit by traffic and killed, then its just a short stop to the pearly gates to explain what your balls were doing prior….
so get your story strait
While I do not agree that this is a deal, what you are saying is not true. I take this route to work to work by bike. There are footpaths and it's not dangerous at all.
Hello; I'm a Doctor and it looks like you could use some help
is there a bus you can catch?
edit: thanks as above "Catch the 400 at Rockdale or Banksia or near Mascot station"
…..or at the airport.
Good Post - Like it.
Certainly is a good 'deal' in my book.
Another Idea is to walk from the Airport along Robey St to Botany Rd and ten catch any Bus to Circular Quay from there. (takes about 15mins and quite a pleasant walk during the daytime)
This is a deal IMO.
It's smart, not everyone knows it and it saves you a decent amount of money. Great if you've got the time and can manage your luggage on shorter trips etc.
Anything that gives Sydney Airport less money is a great thing, those bastards make plenty already https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/booming-demand-and-pri…
Why does this thread invoke the memorable scene from "The Castle", when family walks home from the airport.
I did exactly the same thing when I had a trip to Sydney last DEC and returned to Melbourne Jan this year. However, if you are a first time bargainer, I would recommended you to walk on the right-side of the sidewalk so you'll not be confused to cross the busy highway when you see the sign "Welcome to Sydney Airport". Not a big deal for me to walk from Mascot to Domestic airport.
YEp, I did this OP. on a nice mild day, it's a short walk. Good if ur traveling light.
The bus does a bit longer too, which sucks.
Walking from Wolli Creek to International is also possible.
$5.20 from north shore to wolli creek
$17 same station to international airport
to save 12 bucks, get off walk across the bridge near the rowers club and down a small alley through the international car park. easy!
I always do the same at Sydney airport. In Melbourne you can catch a public bus to Broadmeadows and then train to the city. Some buses also go up to Moonee Ponds and then can take a tram…
Airport transport is a rip off in Oz.
I'd like to take the opportunity to thank our State government for another amazing sell off of public infrastructure. I can only assume 16 dollars is profit maximising price under monopoly conditions. Thank you politicians for giving a helping hand to those who need it most, the struggling asset managers at Westpac Banking!
Mascot airport does occupy some very expensive real estate.. Someone has to pay, either via taxes or the user.
The alternative is Route 400 bus to Burwood then catch train no need to walk. You could go to Mascot like that much Burwood has more options as its closer to Central
Dragging luggage walk to Mascot not really worth your effort
No need to go as far as Burwood. Get off at Banksia station or, for better connections, at Rockdale which is only a couple of minutes on from Banksia on the 400 bus.
what i dont understand, given so much of sydneys PT is bur orinentated, why there isn't just a direct bus from airport to city.
The keyword : Revenue
Why would they charge you $5-6 if they know you'll pay $16.40 ?
ZZZZzzzz. Not news. This would've been discussed at length on various boards elsewhere, since 2011 when the Station Access Fee disappeared from Green Sq/Mascot Stations.
Move on.
It may be old to you but is good news and a saving to many who do not read the forums you do :-)
Especially for travellers like myself from outside Sydney.
This is OZBargain.
Locals often think because they know something, every one must know it - which is of course incorrect.
Discovering the 400 bus on a trip last year, as a suggested transport in an App, was a revelation for my budget-conscious nature. And I enjoyed the ride.
Just checked that 400 bus and it runs approx. every 20 mins from mascot stn to domestic and then international terminal. Runs from 5.34am to around 11.40pm. Check timetable online to be sure.
And if you are going to be in Sydney using public transport, download an App. Found it very helpful.
This is definitely a deal and I absolutely love it. Thanks Zuccs!
I carry a backpack when I travel to see my family and generally train it to the city and then down to the suburbs. So this will save me plenty! I would be happy to walk 1.5km, but had no idea the next station was that close!
LEGEND!
This will always be a bargain!
Thanks
Tried doing that a few months ago. Didn't have a smart phone so I didn't have maps. I tried looking off the signs. It was pouring down rain. Didn't end well. Was about to miss my flight so I went back to the station and paid the extra 16.40. :(
Tried this on my last trip. The walk takes about 20 minutes. I did it because I was only carrying a handbag. I probably wouldn't bother if I had some luggage with me.
I understand why this was moved to forum, but I like these types of deals. Walking + saving money … win/win! Thanks Op!
Can you get a cab with uber from SYD?
Done this a couple times, with luggage and carry-on,well worth it.
Also if you drive to domestic, you can find parkings off the street nearby and park for weeks, for free.
And for driving to international airports, there are plenty of free 2( or 3 hours) parking across the river at Tempe recreational park IIRC. Especially good for those going by his/herself picking up someone at int'l. Imagine you go in only to find out the flight has been delay. When all is done, you are $30+ out of pocket.
The trade off is walk, which humans are very capable of. Bonus- burn a few calories, enjoy some nice scenery while you are at it.
Any way to pull this off in Brisbane?
Well, it's a 918,000 metre walk (Google suggests 7.83 days constant walking)… do you feel up to it? ;)
A couple of years old now, but there is:
http://www.lifehacker.com.au/2011/04/lifehacker%E2%80%99s-20…
In the comments was the suggestion:
get a bus/train to the main shopping centre at Toombul, where the bus interchange is. From there get a bus to the airport DFO and then from there there's a free link shuttle to/from the airport.
Quite a bit more complicated than the Sydney 400 bus. Especially for a visitor, not sure a person new to Brisbane would be able to go ahead with this suggestion. For locals it should be fine, unless they are in a hurry. Three bus rides and waiting periods might easily triple the time it takes by train to reach CBD.
It's only 1 more interchange than 400 bus + train on journey to CBD, & is a longer journey. Having done both, I can't see any issues, unless you need access out of hours or don't have the time to save the money.
I've given the information to a 72 year old from overseas, who found no problems.
(As I commented below, I can walk 10 minutes from my home, catch 2 buses to the airport for as little as $1.42 with concession, or $3.53 without a concession at Peak times, or $5.20 without GoCard.
Catching the airport train takes up to an hour longer (i need to catch 2 buses to CBD to catch train), and about $20 with concession, $25 without, and $29 without a GoCard! That's a big saving.)
Shuttle from airport drops you at stop for 590 bus to Toombul (only shuttle & 590 use that stop). At Toombul take express bus from same bus interchange to city, or walk across road to city train.
Prices Iisted below are using the discounted GoCard - available at tourist information in the terminals or airport train station. Worthwhile (saves up to 30%) even for a few days use, then get refund (at major train stations / newsagents).
590 bus connects Toombul, DFO (Skygate) [Domestic & International Terminal shuttle from outside 24 hour Woolworths - pick up some food], across river to South at Cannon Hill, Carindale, Garden City.
It's a single zone fare in Zone 3. Connections to buses & trains are free within Zone 3 (eg Chermside), or slightly more from say city (Zone 1).
Peak/off peak fares: $3.53/2.83, (concession $1.77/1.42)
From CBD: $4.91/3.93 ($2.46/1.97)
Brisbane Airport site to download shuttle timetable.
Used it late last year to travel from home in Carindale to Sydney CBD for under $14 (with concession tickets on Brisbane & Sydney public transport plus cheap Jetstar fares). Caught 400 bus to train in Sydney. Can't get much cheaper than that.
Unfortunately its a really shixxy walk, I've done it, terrible traffic lights terrible pathing
Agreed. However, i cant recall any area in inner Sydney that is not shitty, walk-wise, ride-wise and drive-wise
If I get an Opal card at the airport. Can I get the 400 bus and then the train on the same charge? Is it considered a transfer?
To be honest…just to stuff it at their (airport) faces i would do the walk from mascot. Srs how can they charge an aiport entry tax when if you come by car they dn't charge it.
Not exactly a deal I would say