Theo Vale

Pick one or two day trips by transport time and your interests, and keep a rest or weather-flexible day between them.

Choose accommodation near a river crossing or transport stop so you can reach food and a park without another long transfer. Compare the total cost, not only the nightly room rate.

Compare total time and effort, including stairs, luggage and the arrival hour. A taxi or booked ride can be good value if the public route involves several changes.

Read the operating coach company's boarding instructions directly. An intercity booking is different from tapping on and off a local bus or tram.

Ask the hotel about late arrivals and nearby options, but compare reviews and prices yourself. A place ideal for breakfast may not serve dinner.

Choose your top two trips rather than promising yourselves every zoo, island and theme park. Door-to-door travel can take much of a day even when attractions look close on a map.

Check Translink's journey planner for the exact date; rail closures and replacement stops change. For eight people with bags, compare the total public-transport cost and transfers with a quoted private transfer.

For several travellers or a hotel far from rail, compare a taxi or rideshare's estimated total. Follow the terminal's signed pickup area rather than arranging an informal kerbside meeting.

Port of Brisbane says there is no onsite car rental and no public transport connection at the International Cruise Terminal. You would need to arrange a taxi or rideshare to an offsite rental branch and confirm its opening hours and return process.

If you need a wheelchair-accessible taxi or hire vehicle, reserve it well ahead and give the operator the chair dimensions and transfer needs. Ask an island or wildlife operator directly about its vessel, ramps, toilets and any assistance required before buying tickets.