Hourly Paid Work – Without doubt the easiest way to save money is through reliable hourly work, the high minimum wage in Australia means most of these jobs pay over $800 a week. Contact The 88th Day if you’d like one, it’s our specialty.
Piece Rate Work – This work refers to the payment scheme used by many farms, paying workers by the weight of product they pick. Make no mistake some workers make great money, however the majority doesn’t. Farmers regularly skew the system, so only the top 25% of workers make minimum wage. This top 25% of workers are rarely backpackers and almost always experienced pickers who have made careers out of picking fruit. Be honest with yourselves, do you think you’re going to be faster than a 35 year old Tongan with 20 years experience.
Another factor to consider is that piece-rate work is outside 99% of the time and work relies on the weather. If it rains you’re not working, fruits not ripe? You’re not working. Harvests are unpredictable and work is not evenly spread. Piece –rate work will get you days, but its unlikely to save you much money
Freebies – Make the most of the goodies from work, many farms and factories will have excess stock, take advantage! Who turns their noses up at free food and wine?
Cook Communally at Home – Whether you’re in one of our share houses or living in a hostel, cooking at home as a group is a great way to count the pennies. Backpackers come from all over the world, encourage everyone to show off their skills in the kitchen
Goon/Hollandia – Ok, we aren’t advocating for binge drinking. But jeez this is a cheap way to get drunk.
Ride Sharing – Help the team out! Not everyone has cars and splitting the petrol costs such a simple way to count the cents.
The 88th Day 