Australia is a land of unparalleled beauty and adventure. Whether you’re visiting its sprawling beaches, vibrant cities, ancient rainforests, or vast outback, packing thoughtfully is essential to ensure your journey is as smooth as it is memorable.
When you book an Australia Tour with All Ways Tailormade, we take care of everything else so the only thing you need to focus on is the packing. But we want to give you an extra hand with this part of the process too, so here are our best tips on what to pack when you travel to one of the most exciting and unique countries in the world.
Why you need to be prepared
Australia is a unique country with landscape, climate, and wildlife that many visitors can find unexpected. And, as the old saying goes, it really is always better to be prepared than to be caught short.
Preparing for all conditions will keep you comfortable for your full trip, no matter what this wonderful country throws at you, and will prevent you from rushing around whilst you’re there, trying to find the right equipment, the right clothing, or even plug adapters for when your camera runs out of battery unexpectedly.
When you’ve spent hours travelling, you will want to fully submerge yourself in the depths of the landscape, and this can only be done when you free your mind of the little things. So, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to prioritise in your packing.
Packing for the flight
Our very first packing tip is to make sure you’re prepared for the flight. This is often one of the least prioritised sections in the packing agenda, but with the length of the journey to Australia, you need to put your hand luggage first.
Whether you’re travelling from England, America, Europe, or Asia, some flights can take up to 20 hours, so we suggest you have the following on hand:
- An eye mask: Eye masks will give you the chance to get some shut eye on the plane, and block out the excess light.
- Ear plugs: If you are sensitive to noise, then ear plugs are an essential.
- Earphones: Whether you prefer earphones or headphones, you may wish for on flight entertainment such as audio books or previously downloaded films that are not provided by the airline.
- An e-reader or physical book: Long flights are an excellent time to get some reading done, and an e-reader will allow you to bring multiple books with you, without taking up masses of bag space.
- A blanket, or substitute: Airlines do provide blankets, but it doesn’t hurt to have your own blanket to add some comfort. You could even bring a chunky scarf or pashmina that you can wear through airport security to avoid filling your hand luggage.
- Neck pillow: Sleeping in an airplane chair can be uncomfortable and the last thing you want when you’ve just arrived on holiday is tension in your neck.
- Water: Airplane staff will happily provide you with water upon request, but it is always sensible to pick up an extra bottle in the airport just in case.
- Travel games: Travel games are not an essential, but they might make the flight more entertaining if you’re travelling with your partner, family or friends. We recommend Mastermind, Travel Chess, Travel Scrabble, even a deck of cards.
Clothing
The clothing you pack is mostly at your discretion depending on your personal style and your sensitivity to heat, but there are a few necessary items to place in your suitcase right at the start so you don’t forget them:
- Light raincoat: If you visit Australia in the warmer months, then you may feel a jacket is unnecessary but you should always pack at least a light raincoat, or a windbreaker to keep the drizzle and evening breeze off your skin.
- Interchange jacket: A breathable interchange jacket that you can adjust depending on the changing weather conditions is your best option when it comes to an all round coat. These are particularly effective at times of the year when the climate is subject to change, like early spring and autumn.
- Walking boots: If you’re visiting Australia, regardless of the activities planned, you’ll need a comfortable pair of walking shoots. Walking boots are best, and they should have sufficient ankle support if you have any hikes planned during your stay.
- Flip flops: Known as ‘thongs’ down under, a good pair of flip flops or sandals are an excellent, lightweight footwear choice.
- Comfortable shoes: Alongside your walking boots, you’ll want to bring some comfortable shoes for day to day activities like trainers.
- Formal shoes: Although not essential, a versatile formal shoe might be on your packing list if you want to dress up for dinners, or have a few date nights during your time in Australia.
- Lightweight layers: Layers are always a good option in Australia, but you don’t need to bulk up your suitcase with fleeces or jumpers for this journey, although one fleece might be recommended in colder months. We suggest t-shirts, a few shirts, trousers as well as shorts, and a few sweatshirts or light cardigans.
- Hiking clothes: Clothes that are suitable for hiking will keep you prepared for any walks or adventures you have planned.
- Swimwear: This one is easy. If you’re planning to make use of the ocean, hotel swimming pool, hot tubs or spa facilities then you definitely need your swimming costume or trunks.
- Hat: Keep your face and eyes protected from the sun. Don’t forget your hat!
- Sunglasses: The sun is high and bright down under, and your eyes will need guarding from UV rays.
Hiking equipment
We’ve discussed a few items of clothing for your hiking expeditions, but there’s more to a good hike than just dressing appropriately. There are a great many things that contribute to a comfortable, safe hike.
- Hiking poles: Hiking poles are a great addition to your suitcase if you are planning a great deal of walking. They’ll keep you steady and take some strain off your hips and legs. Look for carbon fibre poles that are lightweight and ergonomic, ideal for long treks through the wilderness. An even better choice would be something extendable so they pack away nicely into your luggage.
- Backpack: A good backpack will keep all your hiking gear safe and on hand while you walk.
- Water bottle: You’ll need to stay hydrated throughout your walk so make sure you have a decently sized water bottle every time you leave the house. You can fill this up at your hotel or at any one of the public water fountains.
Toiletries
Toiletries are of course something that we all think about when we’re packing, because everyone’s individual cleaning and beauty routine has been crafted over years.
You know which shampoos, conditioners and scalp scrubs you’ll need. You’ll have your cleansers ready to go. Any shaving items will be at the forefront of your mind. So we don’t need to go into too much detail, but just in case, don’t forget to pack:
- Sun cream
- SPF for your face
- Toothpaste and dental floss
- Deodorant
- Travel perfume
First aid kit
A small, well organised kit should include items like plasters, antiseptic wipes, paracetamol, and any personal medication you might need. Consider investing in a luxury first aid kit, like those from Muji or Tumi, which are both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
You must have:
- Bug repellant
- Aloe vera gel
- Antihistamine
Other essentials
- Plug adapter: Australia uses a Type I plug, so ensure you have the right adapter for your electronics.
- Portable charger: Long days of sightseeing mean you’ll need a reliable power source for your phone or tablet. Choose a high capacity portable charger and test it well before you go.
- Waterproof or disposable camera: While your smartphone will capture many moments, consider bringing along a high quality waterproof camera for beach days or aquatic adventures. A camera like the Olympus Tough TG-6 offers exceptional photo quality and durability in challenging conditions.
- Umbrella: In case of a drizzle, an umbrella will come in handy.
- Bum bag: Keep all of your essentials close, and in a position that you can easily keep an eye on. Bum bags are compact but functional.
Australia offers an extraordinary range of experiences, from sophisticated city life to rugged outdoor adventures. With the right packing, you can ensure that your journey is as seamless as it is exciting.
At All Ways Tailormade, we believe that thoughtful preparation is the key to a truly refined travel experience. By packing wisely and bringing along the finest travel essentials, you’ll be able to enjoy all the wonders Australia has to offer, without ever compromising on style or comfort.
