What Should You Pack for Australia?
In Australia, you’ll want lightweight clothes for the hot summers, especially for beach days and city exploring. A pair of shorts and a tank top work well for casual days. For cooler seasons, a light jacket is handy for the evenings. If you’re visiting during the winter months, make sure to bring warmer layers like sweaters for colder mornings and nights.
Make sure you’re prepared for: Surfing at Bondi Beach, exploring the Great Barrier Reef, visiting Sydney Opera House, hiking in the Blue Mountains, road-tripping along the Great Ocean Road.
Dress Code
Australians have a casual dress code, especially around the beach towns. In cities like Sydney and Melbourne, people dress a bit more stylish, with sundresses, skirts, and casual-chic outfits for dining out or attending events. If you’re heading to the beach, make sure to pack a swimsuit and cover-up for sun protection.
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Spring
60 – 80°F
(15 – 27°C
)
Summer
65 – 85°F
(18 – 29°C
)
Fall
55 – 75°F
(13 – 24°C
)
Winter
45 – 65°F
(7 – 18°C
)
Spring: Warm, with occasional rain
Summer: Hot, sunny, and dry
Fall: Mild, with breezy afternoons
Winter: Cool, with some rain
Spring
2.0 inches of rain
Summer
1.5 inches of rain
Fall
2.3 inches of rain
Winter
3.5 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for casual days exploring Sydney’s beaches or shopping in Melbourne—I loved having these for sunny afternoons!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for cool evenings or indoor venues.
3. Tank Tops: Great for hot days, especially on beach trips to the Gold Coast.
4. Sweaters: Necessary for cooler nights, especially in winter.
5. Casual Jacket: Perfect for windy evenings by the coast.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Great for cooler days or casual dining out.
2. Leggings: Ideal for outdoor adventures like hiking in the Blue Mountains.
3. Shorts: Essential for hot days, especially for beach trips—I really liked wearing these at Bondi Beach.
4. Dresses: Perfect for dining out or sightseeing in stylish Melbourne.
5. Skirt: A fun, stylish option for casual outings in the city.
6. Jumpsuit: Comfortable and versatile for day trips to vineyards.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes for city tours and hikes—I always bring these for exploring nature trails.
2. Flats: A stylish option for dining out or casual evenings.
3. Swimsuit: Essential for the beach or poolside days in Queensland.
4. Beach Coverup: Great for transitioning from the beach to nearby cafes.
5. Sarong: Useful for beach lounging, especially on Australia’s iconic coastlines.
6. Sunglasses: Crucial for sunny days on the beach or outdoor sightseeing.
7. Flip Flops: Perfect for beach days and walking along the coast—I always bring these for easy strolls on the sand.
8. Pajamas: Comfortable sleepwear for all seasons.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Handy for short domestic flights between Australian cities.
2. Daypack: Ideal for hiking trips or beach days.
3. Purse: Great for keeping essentials while exploring cities like Sydney or Brisbane.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layers: Even in summer, Australia can have cooler evenings, so pack layers.
- Sun protection: Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for outdoor activities.
- Comfortable shoes: Australia has great hiking spots and walking tours, so good walking shoes are a must.
Australia Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT AUSTRALIA?
September to November and March to May are the best months to visit Australia. These months offer mild weather and fewer crowds, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or exploring the cities.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN AUSTRALIA?
Sydney New Year’s Eve (December): One of the largest New Year’s celebrations in the world, with incredible fireworks over the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Melbourne International Comedy Festival (March/April): A large attraction for comedy lovers, ideal for couples and friends.
Vivid Sydney (May/June): A popular light, music, and ideas festival that attracts tourists from all over, great for families and solo travelers.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN AUSTRALIA?
Australia offers diverse attractions, from the vibrant city life of Sydney and Melbourne to the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru. Visit the Sydney Opera House, explore the beaches along the Gold Coast, or take a road trip along the scenic Great Ocean Road. One of my favorite places is the Blue Mountains, where you can hike and take in breathtaking views.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT AUSTRALIA?
Ideally, spend at least 10-14 days in Australia to experience a mix of cities, beaches, and natural landmarks.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Spend your first day exploring Sydney’s iconic landmarks such as the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. On the second day, head to Bondi Beach for sun and surf, then finish with dinner in Darling Harbour.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the Blue Mountains for hiking and scenic views. Spend day four exploring Melbourne’s cafes and street art. On day five, take a road trip along the Great Ocean Road, stopping at the Twelve Apostles.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: Spend day six in Cairns for snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef. On day seven, visit the Daintree Rainforest and relax at Port Douglas.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: Spend day eight exploring the Outback and Uluru. On day nine, visit Brisbane and take a day trip to the nearby islands. Finish day ten relaxing on the Gold Coast.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, explore the wineries of the Barossa Valley. Spend day twelve in the Whitsunday Islands. On days thirteen and fourteen, visit Tasmania for nature and wildlife adventures.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN AUSTRALIA?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR AUSTRALIA?
Heavy winter coat: Australia’s climate doesn’t require heavy outerwear for most trips.
High heels: Not practical for outdoor activities or walking in cities.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO AUSTRALIA ?
Airfare: $600-$1,200 depending on the season and your starting location. Flights are cheaper outside of the summer months and major holidays.
Accommodation: $100-$300 per night. Rates increase during peak tourist seasons.
Transportation: $50-$150 depending on public transit or rental cars. Domestic flights may be necessary for longer distances.
Meals: $30-$80 per day, with plenty of options from cafes to fine dining.
Activities: $30-$150 per day depending on excursions like the Great Barrier Reef or city tours.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN AUSTRALIA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping in Australia is not expected, but rounding up the bill or tipping 10% at restaurants is appreciated for excellent service.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AUSTRALIA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Bring sunscreen: Australia has intense sun exposure, so protection is essential.
- Plan for long distances: Cities and attractions are often far apart, so flights or long drives may be needed.
- Watch for wildlife: Be mindful of Australia’s wildlife, especially in rural or coastal areas.
- Use public transport in cities: It’s easier than navigating traffic, especially in Sydney or Melbourne.