Can You Claim Travel Expenses related to Crypto Activities?

  • April 1 2026
  • 3 min read
crypto tax article graphic

Yes, in Australia, you can sometimes claim travel expenses connected to cryptocurrency activities, but only where the trip is genuinely for a taxable business or income-producing purpose, not for private investing or personal interest. The ATO says business travel can be deductible, but you can only claim the business portion and must keep records to prove it.

What You Can Claim

If your crypto activity is part of a business – for example, mining, trading as a business, or another crypto-related enterprise – travel may be deductible where it is directly tied to earning assessable income. ATO guidance for business travel includes costs such as airfares, taxis or ride-sourcing, car hire, fuel, tolls, car parking, accommodation, and meals when you are away overnight for business.

What You Cannot Claim

You cannot claim private travel costs, even if the trip also involves some crypto activity. The ATO says private elements must be excluded, including holidays, sightseeing, family travel, souvenirs, visas, passports, and travel insurance. If a trip is mainly private with a small crypto-related component, only the business portion can be potentially claimed. 

Important Distinction

The key question is whether your crypto activity is an investment or a business. Ordinary crypto investors usually rely on capital gains tax treatment, while crypto businesses may be able to claim business deductions for eligible expenses, including some travel costs. If your travel is simply to check prices, meet other investors, or attend a conference for personal learning, the deductibility position is much weaker unless it is clearly linked to a business activity.

Records You Need

The ATO requires records for five years to substantiate travel deductions, including receipts, boarding passes, tickets, travel diaries, and details showing how you worked out any private portion. If you are a sole trader or partner and you travel for six or more consecutive nights, you must keep a travel diary.