The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Your Adventure in Australia

Whether you're exploring the outdoors, enjoying a beach vacation, embracing winter adventures, or capturing memories with photography, we've got you covered. Find essential items, nice to have items and expert tips to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable trip Down Under.

Outdoor Travel Packing List:

• 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 (for example 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 (see below)

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

Beach Vacation Packing List:

• 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 (see below)

• 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.

Winter Packing List:

• 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 (see below)

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

Photography and Electronics Packing List:

• 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 (see below)

• 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.

Carry-on Packing List:

• Documents: passport, visa (if required), boarding pass, travel insurance policy and my guide of course

• Travel wallet, keys, and phone

• A change of clothes for the flight

• Hairbrush for freshening up when you arrive

• Compression socks recommended for long-haul flights

• Entertainment items: book, journal and pen, magazine, cards, tablet, laptop, and headphones

• Reusable bottle (remember to empty it before going through security!)

• Toiletries under 100ml or 3.4 ounces: toothpaste, toothbrush, roll-on deodorant, moisturizer, lip balm, and face wash

• Hand sanitizer and a face mask

• Neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs for maximum comfort

• Medication (if required)

• Pro tip: Stay warm and save space in your luggage by wearing comfortable layers like a big cozy jumper on your flight. Strip down to lighter layers when you land in sunny Australia!

Travel Essentials

• Packing cubes

• Small backpack

• Sun safe kit, including sunglasses and a hat

• Sleepwear and underwear

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Makeup and makeup remover

• Skincare essentials: moisturizer, 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 accommodations in Australia provide these, but it's 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 purchasing it when you arrive.