The best hangover cure? Sign up for a tour or activity the next day. From going sailing to wildlife spotting, or simply continuing on your epic tour of Oz with your chosen company who will take you to the top – and lesser-known – spots.

But who should you go with and what should you do? Every year TNT Magazine hosts the Golden Backpack Awards, which recognise those in the travel industry who are working extra hard to make visitors to Australia and New Zealand have the experiences of a lifetime.

Even better? The finalists are voted for by the backpackers themselves, and so you book your tour or activity knowing these companies and experiences across Australia have been given the seal of approval from fellow travellers.

Join local tour guides eager to show off their country, meet fellow travellers, and take in the best of what Australia has to offer with these top companies. To find out the overall winner, announced November 6, keep an eye on our website.

For the list of finalists covering tours/activities in Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, Northern Territory, Tasmania and Queensland, as well as our other awards categories including Best Backpacker Night, Tour Provider, Visitor Attraction and more, click here