25 Important Australia Packing List Items You Must Take

Devising an Australia packing list can be difficult for several reasons. Firstly, if you’re doing a working holiday in Australia you might feel inclined to pack more than someone who is only going for a few months.

Considering what to pack for Australia is vital if you’re planning to go backpacking through Australia.

Or not! Who knows!

But that was the general trend that I noticed. I did feel quite happy that I packed light when people were backpacking Australia with massive suitcases full of stuff.

Let me assure you now. You don’t need nearly as much stuff as you think you do.

The fewer the things you bring the better, which will help you save money on your trip. You don’t want to be trawling 20 kg of dead weight around Australia!

Without further ado, let’s get into the nitty-gritty and find out the items you need on your packing list for Australia!

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Australia Packing List

What To Wear In Australia

Taking the right clothes with you to Australia is important. It’s a hot country, but one that gets cold in certain places if you’re there during the winter.

No matter what time you visit Australia, you want to ensure you have a range of warmer clothes and ones to protect against rain and the colder climates to meet these various needs.

Australia is known the world over for its beaches and sunshine. You need to pack for the beach and take clothes that will keep you cool during the hot weather.

But you shouldn’t neglect jackets and hats too! It can rain a lot in Australia, especially if you head to tropical cities such as Cairns or Darwin during the winter. A jacket is essential, otherwise, you will get drenched.

You also want to pack a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself against dangerous UV rays.

A variety of clothes are needed when visiting Australia, and below are some of the ones I recommend packing.

Flip flops (thongs)

The beaches in Australia are some of the best in the world! Bondi Beach and Surfer’s Paradise are famous all around the world.

Simply put, it’s inevitable you’ll visit the beach during your trip to Australia.

Flip-flops, or thongs as the locals call them, are one of the most important things to pack for Australia.

Not all flip-flops are made equal. I went through several pairs in Australia before I finally some that didn’t break or disintegrate rapidly.

I swear by Havaianas. They are the best money can buy, and they last a lot longer than other brands that I’ve used. Plus, they are extremely stylish as well!

Jacket

Australia may be a warm country for the majority of the year, but you will need to include a jacket on your packing list.

Depending on where you go, the weather can vary, especially during winter. If you visit Melbourne during the winter, a jacket is a necessity.

The weather can change in an instant, with heavy downpours not uncommon.

Likewise, if you visit the tropical regions of Australia during the wet season, you’ll need to pack a jacket. It can rain for days on end without stopping.

Without a waterproof and windproof jacket, you’ll be soaked in seconds!

I like this jacket from Columbia. It’s light, waterproof and won’t take up too much space in your backpack!

Hat

The sun is ridiculously strong in Australia. The country has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. In light of this, you’re going to want to take precautions!

As well as suncream, one of the best methods of sun protection is to buy a hat.

Keeping the sun off your face is a necessity in Australia, especially when temperatures regularly creep over 40 degrees in summer!

Having a hat handy will reduce your risk of permanent damage to your body and put your mind at ease! If you have a hat included when packing for Australia, you need one!

Shoes

A good pair of hiking shoes will go a long way in Australia. If you visit the Northern Territory, you will need a decent pair of walking shoes.

The outback has numerous walking trails at King’s Canyon, Uluru and Nitmulik in the tropical North that call for sturdy footwear.

There are numerous hikes dotted around Australia. No matter where you go, your feet will get a good walk.

Invest in a reliable pair of walking shoes and they will last you a trip to Australia and beyond!

Swimwear

One of the most important items to pack for Australia is swimwear.

Australia is renowned for its beaches and they are a big part of life in the country.

There is no doubt you will be visiting many during your trip to Australia.

I would advise you to pack two to three pairs of swimwear. You will spend more time than you realise at the beach. Plus, swimwear can double up as shorts you can wear during the day too!

For the women out there, I would advise taking a similar amount of swimwear. Here is a link to some fancy swimwear for you to check out!

Socks

I’m not the biggest fan of socks, but you will need to pack a few pairs.

Depending on when you visit Australia and where you go, you might not need to wear socks.

However, it’s best to pack a few pairs just in case!

I recommend buying happy socks. I like my socks to be funky and the cool patterns they have are certainly that.

Plus, they are made from cotton and help sweaty feet, like mine, breathe! Essential in the Australian heat!

Sunglasses

If there is one item you will need in Australia, it’s a good pair of sunglasses!

The sun is incredibly strong Down Under, you want to ensure your eyes are protected at all times!

My advice to buy one of the best-polarised sunglasses you can find! They protect you from 100% of harmful UV rays, and reduce glare too!

My preference is for the Oakley Frogskins. They are unique, as the hinges are detachable.

If you drop your glasses by accident, and the hinges fall off, you can simply reattach them with no hassle whatsoever!

You can also use them to hide your jet lag for the first few days and on a road trip to protect your eyes from the sun!

Accessories

Bobby Anti-Theft Backpack

The Bobby anti-theft backpack is one item that I wouldn’t leave home without. If you’ve ever worried about losing your valuables, this is the bag for you!

I nearly got pickpocketed twice on my travels. Pickpockets aren’t a major issue in Australia, but you can never be too careful.

The beauty of the backpack is that the compartments are hidden. Any would-be pickpocket would have a hard time getting your valuables with this bag!

If you value protecting your belongings while you travel to Australia, then you simply need this bag. It’s an investment.

Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack

As well as a smaller backpack, you’ll need a bigger backpack to carry the bulk of your clothes. This is why it becomes crucial to not add too much to your Australia packing list.

If you’re doing a working holiday in Australia, you’re going to be travelling around with this backpack for 12 months.

You want to travel light, otherwise, you’ll break your back carrying your belongings around.

A 40-litre backpack is just what most backpackers need as anything bigger can be too much. You can fit a lot of clothes and items and still have a fair amount of space.

This Osprey Farpoint 40 L backpack is a great option, as it’s front-loading.

Most backpacks for travelling are top-loading. It can be frustrating rooting around trying to find what you want. With this backpack, you open the bag up and find what you want.

There’s also more than enough space to store your packing cubes if you use them, making it a great option for any traveller!

Duct Tape

Duct tape might seem like a strange item to include on your packing list for Australia, but there are a few reasons why you should include it.

Travelling around Australia entails a lot of wear and tear on your backpack. Unfortunately, this can result in your bag splitting.

Carrying duct tape allows you to fix the split without buying a new bag.

You can also use duct tape more imaginatively. If you enjoy hiking, you’ll know that blisters are a common occurrence.

One tip to manage them is to place duct tape over them to avoid the blister getting worse! Simple, yet effective!

Hanging toiletry bag

These hanging toiletry bags were everywhere when I was in Australia. I remember thinking they were a better idea than my bog standard bag.

Unfortunately, I kept my toiletries in a big clumsy bag! I cannot describe how annoying it was rifling through the bag trying to find what I wanted.

The value of having one of these bags is that it makes it easier to find what you want because of the array of compartments.

The bag keeps your items without the fear of them spilling out, as well as being easy to access!

It’s one of the essential things you should include when packing for Australia for a year!

Power adapter

Unless you’re from Australia or New Zealand, you will need a power adapter.

This is one of the most essential things to take to Australia.

The power outlets in Australia use 230 V, 50hz and Type I prongs.

Purchasing a travel adapter will allow you to charge your electrical items without worrying about them running out of power at any point.

Portable charger

The distances between places in Australia are big, really big. You could be looking at journeys over 12 hours to some places.

If you don’t have a portable charger on your backpacking Australia packing list, you may run out of power on your electrical items quickly!

Carrying a portable charger with you ensures you won’t run out of power.

This can be crucial in Australia. You don’t want to get stranded in the middle of nowhere with no battery on your phone!

Just make sure you don’t lose your USB cable!

Eco water bottle

Buying bottles of water while travelling is one of my bugbears. I used to buy one every time I went to a new destination, not realising that there was a better option.

I’m trying to reduce the amount of plastic that I consume and make a difference when I travel.

Buying a reusable Eco water bottle is a great way to do that!

A reusable bottle is a great way to reduce your plastic consumption and will lead to less plastic ending up in the ocean!

Security padlock

A padlock is an essential item to have while backpacking Australia.

There are a lot of hostels in Australia, most of the people that stay there are lovely. However, there’s always the possibility of someone staying in your room who is a bit dodgy!

Having a padlock to keep your belongings safe in a locker is a necessity.

You could just buy a key padlock, but that has one drawback. Lose the key and you’re screwed.

Using a padlock with numbers is safer, all you need to do is remember the code!

It couldn’t be easier! You can also change the code at a later date if you wish.

For such a cheap item, it’s a must to include when packing for Australia for a year! You’ll need it!

Toiletries

After-sun cream

If you’re considering what to pack for Australia after suncream is an essential item!

The Aussie sun is incredibly powerful. The country has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world.

If you do get sunburnt, it can be painful and linger for days.

Investing in after suncream is a great way to soothe the effects of sunburn. The aloe vera formula cools your skin and reduces the pain that comes from sunburn.

I used to spend days in pain before I bought this cream, and my sunburn faded after a few days. I can’t recommend this item enough!

Deodorant Cream

Deodorant cream is a new product that I’ve recently started using, but it’s one of my favourites already.

Trying to eliminate plastic from my life has meant I’ve had to reconsider the deodorant I use.

It’s nearly impossible to find a deodorant that does not come packaged in plastic. Thankfully, I found this handy deodorant cream!

It comes in a recyclable tin and is ridiculously easy to use.

You simply dab your hand into the cream, wipe it under your armpits and you’re done! Simple and environmentally friendly.

Reef-safe suncream

If you plan on going to the Great Barrier Reef, then you’ll need to invest in reef-safe suncream. This specific type of cream is free of chemicals which damage the underwater ecosystem.

You will 100% need suncream in Australia. Not packing any would be lunacy!

In some locations, it’s mandatory to wear reef-safe suncream due to stringent environmental restrictions.

Packing this keeps you protected physically from the Australian sun and ensures you don’t damage the environment as you travel!

Solid shampoo

I know what you’re thinking! Solid shampoo? What is this madness!?

Well, there are a few reasons why I would include it on your packing list for Australia.

Firstly, it reduces the space taken up by bottles. Secondly, it reduces the amount of plastic that you’ll be using on your travels.

Finally, it’s simply more convenient! Plus, there’s less likelihood of the shampoo spilling in your bag, which happened a few times to me!

If you’re sceptical, give it a try, you might be surprised!

Antiseptic Cream

This is one item that is always on my carry-on list! Antiseptic cream is an extremely handy product to have with you.

You can use it to treat any number of ailments. From rashes to spots, and even sunburn, antiseptic cream can treat the lot!

It lasts for ages! It will last for a few months in Australia or even a year.

Ugly blemishes can appear out of nowhere on the road, packing antiseptic cream ensures you’ll be prepared should this happen!

As well as the above items, here are a few other items that are an essential part of my packing for Australia checklist!

• Earplugs
• Dental Floss
• Nail Clippers
• Shaver
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Towel
• Vaseline

Other

Hard drive

A hard drive is one item that I neglected to include on my Australia packing list.

I really, really, wish I had included it! I had one before I left on my trip to Australia, I just never thought I would need it.

The reality is, that long-term travel is exhausting. You’re not spending every day chasing rainbows and waterfalls.

There are days when you really can’t be bothered to do much.

Access to a hard drive allows you to stick a film on and relax! You can also use it to back up your photos and other important documents!

It’s also handy to have on a long flight if the options or movies and series aren’t great!

Kindle

I love books! The only problem is, they take up space, a lot of space.

I was carrying seven books around with me at one point!

It was ridiculous!

Eventually, I shipped them back to England, but it was a pain travelling with them!

Investing in a Kindle completely avoids this scenario.

Even if you’re only going for a short trip, I’d recommend getting one as they save space. They should be part of your long haul flight essentials so you don’t get bored on the long journey to Australia

Leaving you with more room for things to take on your Australia trip!

Laptop

A laptop is an important item to take to Australia if you need to do work, or if you want to keep in contact with your family.

I would recommend taking a MacBook with you when you go.

They are one of the top laptops for travel. They are portable, lightweight and will take up minimal space in your backpack.

That may cost a bit, but they last a long time. This laptop will survive your trip to Australia as well as many more!

Travel Insurance

A wise man once said, “if you can’t afford insurance, you can’t afford to travel!”

Travel insurance may not seem like a necessary purchase, but it is. I have first-hand experience of this.

When I was in Australia, I got hit by a car on my way to work.

Thankfully, I escaped with a few cuts and bruises. It could have been a lot worse. I had insurance, so if it had been worse, I would have been covered.

At least that was what I thought!

When my year was up, I realised the insurance I bought did not last for a year, but just 30 days!

I was extremely fortunate I didn’t have serious injuries, otherwise, I would be looking at a huge bill.

You have no idea when accidents can happen, especially as there are plenty of dangerous animals in Oz! If you’re insured, at least you have peace of mind.

SafetyWing are my recommended insurance company. They are tailored towards backpackers and travellers. If you plan on being adventurous, while backpacking Australia, they are the best company to go with!

Lonely Planet Guidebook

The Lonely Planet guides are a useful sounding board for finding out what to do in Australia.

I’m not one to advise planning every, single, detail of your trip.

However, having a rough idea of what you want to see certainly goes a long way.

The guide is detailed and will inform you about places you otherwise might not have heard of.

This was the case when I went to visit Wilson’s Promontory. I might not have visited had I not checked out the Lonely Planet guide beforehand!

What Not to Pack For Australia

The last thing you want to do when travelling to Australia is to pack too much.

Wherever you go, your backpack goes with you. If your backpack is full of things you don’t need, it will be a pain carrying it around with you.

It’s always better to pack less and buy anything you need later than take too much stuff and hardly use any of it!

Below are a few items I would leave off your packing list for Australia to ensure you’re not carrying around too much deadweight!

• Valuables – While you need to take some valuables with you, you should limit how many you take. The last thing you want to happen is to lose something personal during your Australia trip. If you take them, ensure they are locked away in your locker when you go out.
• Suitcase – It may seem like a good idea to take a suitcase, but it will be a pain to carry around. A backpack is much more practical, especially if you are backpacking around Australia. You’ll be able to move around much easier than you would with a suitcase!
• Books – I made this mistake when I was in Australia. I bought too many books and was carrying seven with me at one point! To avoid my fate, I would take a Kindle instead. They are much more practical for travelling and you won’t have to send multiple books home either like I did!
• Jeans – You should pack one or two pairs of jeans, but any more than that is necessary. Australia is a very hot country. No matter what time you visit Australia, it’s always hot in some parts of the country. It’s better to pack more shorts and swimwear, otherwise, you will burn up in the Australian heat!
• Food – Australia has some of the strictest customs laws in the world. This is due to the fragile ecosystem the government wants to protect from invasive species. If you’re coming into the country, any food you bring with you will have to be declared and potentially thrown away. It’s not worth the hassle, so don’t bring any!

Concluding Thoughts

Packing for Australia can be a stressful process. Hopefully, this list has put your mind at ease and let you look forward to your trip down under!

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