Packing List © Tourism Australia

The ultimate packing list for Australia

  • Walking or hiking shoes to explore some of Australia's top hiking trails
  • Headlamp to find epic stargazing spots
  • Active wear for working up a sweat
  • Day pack or backpack
  • Thermal wine glass or sustainable coffee cup
  • Aussie Snacks (we recommend Tim Tams, Caramello Koalas, Shapes, and Allen's lollies!)
  • Wind or waterproof jacket depending on the weather
  • Binoculars for spotting local wildlife
  • First aid kit: if not travelling on a guided tour
  • Travel essentials

Pro tip: a lightweight picnic rug or blanket will take your trip photos from boring to bougie.

  • Wide brimmed hat (for safety and style)
  • Beach towel (Turkish towels are a good lightweight option)
  • Swimwear or bathing suits for diving in at the best swimming beaches
  • Sarong, or cover-up for comfortable beach hopping
  • Goggles if you plan to go snorkelling with local marine life
  • Book to read when you're laying in the sun at one of Australia's best beaches
  • Summer dresses and lightweight clothing
  • Party outfits and heels to sip cocktails on a rooftop bar
  • Rash vest to protect you from the sun - and board if you plan to go surfing!
  • Light jumper, cardigan, or jacket for cool evening sunsets
  • Sandals or thongs (flip flops) for easy walking
  • Comfortable walking shoes for enjoying coastal walks
  • Fold up umbrella for shaded picnics
  • Travel essentials

Pro Tip: When discovering coral reefs don't forget your reef shoes and wet bag. Water shoes protect your feet from the hot sand, sharp rocks, and rough terrain you might encounter as you explore.

  • Beanie, scarf and gloves to keep you cosy
  • Thermal underwear and thick socks
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket to keep you warm throughout your many winter adventures
  • Long sleeve shirts and layers for days spent outdoors seeking winter wildlife events
  • Thick jacket or jumper
  • Dress pants and a button up for chilly nights out among Australia's eclectic food scene
  • Tracksuit for exploring in comfort or curling up by the fire
  • Ski clothing: that’s right, you can ski in Australia!
  • Comfortable walking shoes if you're going on a walk or hike
  • Closed in, waterproof shoes or boots
  • Swimwear to swim with our spectacular marine life (swimming with humpbacks happens during their winter migration!)
  • Travel essentials

Pro tip: The Aussie sun can pack a punch! Be sure to bring your sun safety essentials even if you're visiting in winter.

  • Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
  • Reusable coffee cup to keep your flat-white warm
  • Canvas or reusable bag (single-use plastic bags are outlawed in most Australian states, so a compact shopping bag is an essential addition!)
  • Reusable cutlery for irresistible street eats
  • Reusable straw for sipping cocktails
  • Bike shorts and walking shoes for cycling through city streets
  • Solid shampoo and conditioner
  • Lightweight towel to save on space
  • Durable clothing and footwear for exploring Australia's most eco-friendly destinations
  • A conscious travel mindset!
  • Travel essentials

Pro tip: Australia's tap water is clean and safe to drink, so bringing a reusable water bottle will help your wallet and the environment.

  • Camera, GoPro, or drone to record your favourite Aussie experiences
  • Underwater camera for diving adventures
  • Chargers for all of your devices - portable power packs are great for when you're on the go
  • Mini tripod to quietly capture photos of friendly wildlife
  • Microphone for optimal sound quality
  • Universal adaptor and powerboard
  • Spare camera batteries
  • Memory cards to avoid running low on space
  • Bluetooth speaker for beachside tunes
  • Laptop / tablet
  • Headphones to play your travel soundtrack
  • Selfie stick for snapping moments with Australia's top natural attractions
  • Travel essentials

Pro tip: Australia uses voltage 230V 50Hz. If your home country does not use the same voltage, you’ll need to pack a voltage transformer, which adjusts the outlet power accordingly. Check the label on your electronic appliances to see which voltage is used.

  • Documents: passport (VERY ESSENTIAL!), visa (if required), boarding pass, itinerary and travel insurance policy
  • Travel wallet, keys and phone
  • A change of clothes for the flight
  • Hairbrush: to freshen up when you arrive
  • Compression socks: recommended for long-haul flights 
  • Entertainment: book, journal and pen, magazine, cards, tablet, laptop and headphones  
  • Reusable bottle: just remember to empty it before you go through security!
  • Toiletries: toothpaste, toothbrush, roll-on deodorant, moisturiser, lip balm and face wash (all under 100 mls or 3.4 ounces)
  • Hand sanitiser and a face mask
  • Neck pillow, eye mask and earplugs: you can never be too comfortable, right?
  • Medication (if required)

Pro tip: Wearing comfortable layers like a big cosy jumper on your flight will help you stay warm while in the air and save space in your luggage. Strip down to your lighter layers when you land in sunny Australia!

Essentials
  • Packing cubes
  • Small backpack
  • Sun safe kit, including sunglasses and a hat
  • Sleepwear and underwear

Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Makeup and makeup remover
  • Skincare: moisturiser, face wash and serums
  • Deodorant
  • Perfumes, aftershave, or cologne
  • Sunscreen: we recommend reef-friendly, SPF 50 
  • After sun / Aloe vera
  • Insect repellent
  • Medications 
  • Vitamins
  • Reusable face cloth and towel
  • Razor
  • Shampoo, conditioner and soap: most of Australia’s accommodations will provide these, but it’s always worth double-checking
  • Hair dryer, curler, or straightener (if not staying at hotels)

Pro tip: Sunscreen in Australia is high quality and affordable, so you can save some room in your bag by stocking up when you arrive.