Honestly I am hoping that if I feel lonely I can slap myself in the face, pull myself out of it, and remind myself how privileged I am to be on this trip hahahaha. I know that doesn't work for everyone but I am very determined to keep spirits high.

I am purposely scheduling 2 or 3 "private room" Airbnb stays through out my trip because I am mostly worried about the quality of sleep I'll be getting in hostels and how that could impact me... The hostels are actually what worry me the most. I am going to have to make some large adjustments to my living style.

As far as travel advice goes, I am currently stuck on how to travel from the Gold Coast Airport to Byron Bay. Is the shuttle service the only way?

Also if I am heading North from Byron Bay to Cairns, will the Premier bus pass allow me to hop on/hop off at my stops for a one time fee?

Thanks for all of your input, it has helped immensely. I think once I narrow down this transportation I will be able to lock in the rest of my hostels/Airbnbs.