What Should You Pack for Melbourne?
Melbourne is known for its unpredictable weather, so be prepared to layer up! In spring and fall, it’s all about layering short sleeve shirts, sweaters, and light jackets since the temperature can vary throughout the day. Summers are warm but not overly hot, so breathable clothing like dresses and shorts are perfect. In winter, you’ll need a cozy coat, scarves, and a rain jacket to keep dry during rainy days. Comfortable shoes are a must since Melbourne is a great city to explore on foot!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Exploring street art in laneways, visiting Federation Square, strolling along St Kilda Beach, seeing the Royal Botanic Gardens, and attending sporting events like Australian Rules Football.
Dress Code
Melbourne is known for its casual but stylish vibe. Whether you’re exploring laneways filled with street art or grabbing a coffee at a trendy café, you’ll fit right in with smart-casual outfits like jeans, jackets, and comfy shoes. Locals tend to dress fashionably but comfortably, and if you’re planning to attend a sporting event or explore the city’s parks, casual clothing works best. If you plan on dining at some of Melbourne’s high-end restaurants, bring a dress or stylish outfit for the evening!
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Spring
50 – 70°F
(10 – 21°C
)
Summer
60 – 80°F
(16 – 27°C
)
Fall
55 – 75°F
(13 – 24°C
)
Winter
45 – 60°F
(7 – 16°C
)
Spring: Mild, with rain showers and windy days
Summer: Warm, with occasional hot days and breezes
Fall: Crisp & cool, some rain
Winter: Chilly and windy, with frequent rain
Spring
2.4 inches of rain
Summer
1.8 inches of rain
Fall
2.1 inches of rain
Winter
2.5 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for sunny summer days spent exploring Melbourne’s street art.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for cooler mornings and evenings, especially in spring and fall.
3. Sweaters: Essential for layering during Melbourne’s unpredictable weather—I loved wearing mine during strolls along St Kilda Beach!
4. Tank Tops: Ideal for warm days spent walking through the city’s parks.
5. Casual Jacket: A versatile option for cool days and breezy evenings, especially near the waterfront.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and versatile, perfect for walking around the city—I really liked these for visiting Federation Square!
2. Leggings: Great for layering during colder days or for casual outings.
3. Shorts: Perfect for warm summer days spent strolling along St Kilda Beach.
4. Dresses: Perfect for evening dining or spending time in the city’s trendy neighborhoods.
5. Skirt: A stylish and comfortable option for visiting museums and shopping.
6. Jumpsuit: A chic yet casual choice for a day of sightseeing and café hopping.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring Melbourne’s streets—I really liked these for walking around the city’s vibrant laneways!
2. Flats: A stylish option for dining out or attending cultural events.
3. Sandals: Useful for warm summer days spent along the beach or in the parks.
4. Hat: Perfect for sunny days spent exploring Melbourne’s outdoor attractions.
5. Sunglasses: Useful for bright days spent walking around the city.
6. Swimsuit: If you’re planning to hit St Kilda Beach or nearby coastal spots, a swimsuit is a must.
7. Pajamas: Comfortable for relaxing after long days of exploring Melbourne’s vibrant neighborhoods.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for a weekend trip, keeping your essentials handy.
2. Daypack: Perfect for carrying snacks, a water bottle, and your camera while exploring the city.
3. Purse: Great for keeping your personal items secure while shopping or dining out.
4. Tote Bag: Handy for carrying layers or any items you pick up while visiting Melbourne’s markets.
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: Melbourne’s weather is known for changing rapidly, so packing layers is essential.
- Shoes: The city’s walkability and tram system make good shoes a must for exploring.
- Rain Jacket: Showers can pop up unexpectedly, so it’s smart to bring a light rain jacket.
- Stylish Yet Casual: Melbourne has a casual but fashionable vibe, so dress comfortably but stylishly.
Melbourne Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MELBOURNE?
March is the best month to visit Melbourne. March’s also great because the weather is warm but not too hot, making it perfect for outdoor activities like exploring the Royal Botanic Gardens or enjoying the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival. Expect pleasant days and cool evenings, with fewer crowds than summer.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN MELBOURNE?
Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (March): A major tourist attraction, ideal for food lovers, couples, and friends.
Australian Open (January): A grand slam tennis event, great for sports fans and solo travelers.
Melbourne International Comedy Festival (April): One of the world’s largest comedy festivals, perfect for a fun night out with friends or family.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN MELBOURNE?
Melbourne is a city filled with culture, art, and unique attractions. One of my favorite places is the laneways filled with colorful street art, especially Hosier Lane. Federation Square is another must-visit spot, offering a mix of modern architecture, museums, and cafes. Don’t miss St Kilda Beach for a relaxing walk or a sunset view. Be sure to check out the Royal Botanic Gardens for a peaceful escape in the city. For sports fans, catching an Australian Rules Football game at the MCG is a memorable experience!
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT MELBOURNE?
4-5 days is ideal to explore Melbourne’s neighborhoods, attractions, and beaches. A weekend is enough to see the highlights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, explore Federation Square, stroll through Hosier Lane to admire the street art, and relax at St Kilda Beach for sunset. Spend day two visiting the Royal Botanic Gardens, then head to the Southbank area for dinner and city views.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the National Gallery of Victoria and enjoy a walk along the Yarra River. Spend day four exploring the Melbourne Zoo, and visit Queen Victoria Market for fresh food and souvenirs. On day five, take a day trip to the Great Ocean Road or Phillip Island to see the penguins.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: Spend day six visiting the Melbourne Museum and exploring Carlton Gardens. On day seven, take a stroll through Fitzroy, Melbourne’s trendy neighborhood filled with cafes, vintage shops, and street art.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, take a day trip to the Dandenong Ranges for scenic hikes. Spend day nine exploring Melbourne’s laneways and hidden bars. On day ten, relax at Brighton Beach, famous for its colorful bathing boxes.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, visit the Healesville Sanctuary to see Australian wildlife. Spend day twelve exploring the Yarra Valley wine region. On the final days, visit the Mornington Peninsula for coastal walks and hot springs.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN MELBOURNE?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR MELBOURNE?
High heels: Melbourne’s laneways and parks require comfortable shoes, making high heels impractical.
Heavy winter coat: Melbourne’s winter is relatively mild, and layers work better than bulky coats.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO MELBOURNE ?
Airfare: $500-$1,500 depending on your starting location and season. Flights are more expensive in summer and during major events.
Accommodation: $100-$300 per night for hotels, with more affordable hostels and Airbnb options.
Transportation: $20-$50 for public transport or bike rentals—Melbourne’s trams are a popular way to get around.
Meals: $30-$70 per day, depending on whether you’re eating at cafes or fine dining.
Activities: $30-$60 per day for entrance fees and tours.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN MELBOURNE? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is not required in Australia, including Melbourne, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MELBOURNE BEFORE I VISIT?
- Use public transport: Melbourne’s tram system is an easy way to get around the city.
- Dress in layers: The weather can change rapidly, so bring layers to stay comfortable.
- Explore the laneways: Some of Melbourne’s best street art and cafes are hidden in the laneways—don’t miss out on exploring them!
- Visit early: Popular attractions like Federation Square and St Kilda Beach can get crowded, so visit earlier in the day to avoid the rush.