Reading time: 5 minutes
If you didn't post it on Instagram, did your trip really happen? We don't think so. With so many spectacular destinations to explore across the country, why wouldn't you share your amazing photos of the world? If you're having trouble deciding where to go next, fear not – we've rounded up five fabulous destinations worth planning your next holiday around.
Lavender fields, Tasmania
The fields of Bridestowe Lavender Estate burst into bloom each summer, rewarding phone-wielding visitors with a backdrop made in heaven. Wander around at your own pace (the best selfies take time!) or join a tour to learn how oil is extracted for use in perfume, moisturiser and more. Whatever you do, don't forget to buy a lavender-infused ice-cream cone at the on-site café. Mauve-coloured ice-cream against a mauve field of flowers? It's instant Insta gold! Bridestowe is located 55km from Launceston in northern Tassie, and is open seven days.
Whitehaven Beach, Queensland
Just because there are already 205,000-plus photos on Instagram tagged #whitehavenbeach doesn't mean there isn't room for a couple more. The beach is 7km long but the inlet's shifting sands and colours (teal, azure, sky blue) at the northern end are what makes this spot world famous. The drool-worthy destination can be shot successfully from a seaplane, boat, the beach or even underwater. The point is – you were there, you loved it, and you've got the awesome pics to prove it. The easiest and cheapest way to get to Whitsunday Island is by ferry from Airlie Beach. The journey takes 80 minutes, which makes it a doable day trip with plenty of time for snorkelling and sunbaking in between photo sessions.
Flinders Lane, Melbourne
Amazing food? Check. Boutique fashion? Check. Pre-theatre drinks? Check. Flinders Lane has opportunities galore for envy-inducing Instagram shots. Some of the best are captured just on dusk, when the laneway is at its bustling best and golden light spills out of cosy bars and eateries onto streetside diners and passers-by. The lane is lined with heritage buildings and converging lines (a photographer's dream) and has so much to offer the urban explorer that you'd be forgiven for not going anywhere else during your Melbourne stay. But do make a point of strolling down Hosier Lane (it runs off Flinders) to capture the colourful street art.
Uluru, Northern Territory
Red dirt, blue skies, majestic sunsets – the spiritual heart of Australia will blow you – and your followers – away with its natural beauty. Uluru, the 348m-high sandstone monolith rising from an otherwise flat landscape, is located 450km from Alice Springs but there's an accommodation option to suit every budget. Stay at least a few days to be sure you can shoot the Rock at various times of day – its colour changes with the light from bright red to pink to deep purple to pitch black as the day fades away and the stars come out to play. Uluru is at its most magnificent at sunrise and sunset, but your most creative shots may well be taken along the 6km base walk – blissfully uncrowded at dawn and dusk.
Icebergs, Sydney
It isn't just the rich and famous who can be Insta-sensational at this Sydney icon. The historic swimming pool and clubhouse, located at the southern end of Bondi Beach, welcomes everyone. Icebergs is so named for its diehard winter swimmers who commit to swimming three Sundays out of four for a period of five years when they join the Bondi Icebergs Winter Swimming Club. Luckily, you don't even need to get wet to capture a winning shot. Take a selfie poolside or head upstairs to the bistro for tasty food that won't break the bank (you might want to skip the cocktails) and panoramic views.
Cover available for budding photographers
No matter how you choose to capture your holiday memories, whether it be with your smartphone or the more traditional standalone camera, Travel Insurance Direct plans provide cover for your devices if they are stolen, accidentally lost or damaged.
Smartphones
The cameras built into our phones have come along way over the years, eliminating the need to pack an additional camera for a lot of travellers. All phones, including iPhones and Android phones, are covered – just check the PDS for individual limits.
Cameras
For the more passionate photographers, where a smartphone just won't cut it, cover is also available for your camera equipment, up to the individual item limits.
Need extra cover?
When purchasing a policy, you'll have the option to add extra cover for your luggage items up to $4,000 per item and a total limit of $10,000 for all items. Proof of value for specified items must be provided when you make a claim. Depreciation does not apply to specified items. Note that policy terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions apply to items insured under this option.
Find out more about what's covered for your cameras and personal tech and, always read the PDS for all the terms, conditions, exclusion and limitations that may apply.