You’ve been planning and preparing for your trip, now it’s time to pack. With an empty suitcase sitting on the bed, packing for a long trip like Australia can seems daunting. So… let’s take it one step at a time.
Regardless of the destination, there are a couple of questions that will determine what to pack.
- What activities are part of the itinerary
- Is it cold, hot, rainy, dry
- Will I need to pack and re-pack during the trip
- What footwear will I need for my various activities
Flight, Hotel and Itinerary: First make sure you have everything for your flight and entry into the country. Your flight details, a copy of your itinerary, passport, VISA (which can be obtained online), hotel details and tour information. Pack copies of any confirmations for pre-purchased activities.
The Necessities: Bring a credit card and have a few Australian dollars for those just in case moments that you can not predict, but are happy you have a few bills. Have a list of credit card numbers, passport number in a place separate from your wallet. A guide book and map will come in handy too.
Camera: You must have a camera. Although a smartphone with a camera is handy, we suggest bringing along a camera with a video mode to ensure you capture all of the beauty and colors of Australia. Make sure and bring along extra batteries, chargers, adapters, photo card and the smartphone for quick photos. If you are planning to download photos to your computer, don’t forget to pack your download cord. Pack your electronic items in your carry on and take it a step further by placing them in a waterproof pouch, because you will not be able to resist a trip to the beach. Cameras and electronics are items subject to theft, so keep them close by and attach a strap to your camera to wear around your neck or have around your wrist.
Clothing: Australia does have the change of seasons with cold days and rainy weather. We think of sunny times in Australia, but a visit to a site such as the Weather Channel, will help plan what to pack for the time of year. Summertime (November – February) is outdoor time and shorts, T-shirt, jeans and summer dresses are great. Bring along the swimwear with cover-up and great shoes for walking. Natural fabrics are most comfortable in warm-hot weather. Pack light and save room in the suitcase for souvenirs!
If you are planning very adventurous activities such as hiking the Harbour Bridge, bungee jumping, biking or nature hiking bring comfortable footwear that supports your feet and will not slip off. Don’t forget socks. And for the beach flip flops pack easy and will be greatly appreciated on the hot sandy beaches.
Although most of Australia is informal and casual, if you are planning to attend the opera or enjoy an evening of fine dinning, pack a more dressy outfit …. and don’t forget the fancy shoes. If you’re spending time on the water, remember the sunscreen, sunglasses and a packable hat.
If you are in Australia during the rainy season, bring along an umbrella or be prepared to purchase one. Colder time of the year means a jacket for sure.
A few more things:
- Insect repellent
- Medicines with a copy of your prescription
- Converter
- Antibacterials
- Over the counter medicines for upset stomach, pain relief and headaches
- A small plastic bag with basic first-aid items such as band-aids and ointment
And, one last thing that is a must to pack for every trip: A positive attitude and open mind! Try new things, explore and learn about the people and culture. Travel is not a spectator sport, it is a chance to run full force ahead, jump in and be ready to participate in the adventure of your life.
Do you have any other tips? Add your Australia packing suggestions!
