In the new year, I will be leaving lovely Canada and heading off on my next adventure to Australia. I’ll be heading back home to the UK for a few weeks in between, which will give me a chance to swap some of my winter clothes for lighter and airier ones. Packing for Canada was a bit of a struggle as I needed a few bulkier items that took up valuable space in my luggage, so here’s hoping packing for Australia will be a little bit easier. If you are considering a longer move abroad and don’t know where to start with packing, keep reading as I offer you a packing guide and some tips and tricks on saving valuable luggage space.
Traveling to Australia from a cold country can be quite a challenge when it comes to packing. Australia’s vast landscape and diverse climate make it a unique destination to explore. Whether you are planning to immerse yourself in the urban life of Sydney, explore the tropical wonders of Queensland, or experience the rugged beauty of the Outback, it’s crucial to pack appropriately for your 6-month adventure. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on what to pack and how to prepare for your long stay in Australia.
Do your Research
Before you start packing, it’s essential to thoroughly research Australia’s climate during the months you will be visiting. Australia experiences different seasons at different times of the year, so understanding the weather patterns will help you pack the right clothing and gear. Keep in mind that Australia’s climate can vary significantly between regions, so it’s crucial to consider the areas you plan to explore. When it comes to clothing, versatility is key. Here are some essential items to pack:
- Lightweight and breathable clothing: Pack a mix of comfortable t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, and skirts for the warmer days. Opt for natural fabrics like cotton or linen that allow your skin to breathe.
- Long-sleeved shirts and light sweaters: Bring a few long-sleeved shirts and light sweaters for cooler evenings or if you plan to visit regions with colder temperatures.
- Pants and jeans: Include a couple of pairs of pants or jeans for cooler days or outdoor activities.
- Swimwear: Australia boasts stunning beaches and breathtaking coastal destinations, so don’t forget to pack your favorite swimsuit.
- A lightweight jacket or hoodie: Even during warmer months, evenings can get chilly, so having a lightweight jacket or hoodie is a smart choice.
- Comfortable shoes: Bring a mix of sandals, sneakers, and closed-toe shoes suitable for different activities and terrains.
My Packing List
My current packing list looks something like this:
- 4 neutral colored t-shirts that I can mix and match with any outfit
- 3 nicer tops for going out in
- 1 light weight long sleeved shirt
- 1 Thermal shirt
- 1 warm and cozy fleece/jumper for when its a little bit colder
- 1 light weight waterproof rain coat. I have a great one form The North Face which is super lightweight
- 3 pairs of shorts. 1 nice pair for wearing out, a pair for hiking in and a pair to lounge in
- 2 pairs of lightweight pants
- 2 skirts, one short and one long
- 1 pair short dungarees
- 1 nice coat to wear out
- 2 lightweight casual dresses (Bonus if you get ones you can roll down and wear as a skirt)
- 1 nice dress for special occasions
- 2 pairs of light pajamas
- 1 pair of walking boots
- 1 pair of runners
- 1 pair sandals
- 1 pair flip flops
- 3 bikinis
- 1 swimsuit
- 1 rash vest
- 1 spring suit (a wetsuit without legs. Only needed if you plan to swim/snorkel a lot)
- 1 cover up (the sun is hot in Australia so make sure you always have a way to cover up to protect your skin)
Assuming you have access to laundry facilities at least once a week I recommend bringing 10 pairs of socks and 10 pairs of underwear as well as a mix of bras and sports bras if applicable.
Plan your Travel Fit Strategically
Remember you will be wearing clothes to the airport! i always wear my bulkier items in order to save space and travel lighter. My go to airport outfit is loose sweatpants, a light vest, a t shirt and a jumper as well as my trainers. I also wear my warmer coat to the airport. It’s still going to be freezing in the UK and I like to use my coat as a blanket on the plane if I need to.
Other Items to Consider
In addition to clothing, certain accessories and miscellaneous items will be needed for your time in Australia. Consider packing the following:
- Sun protection: Australia is known for its strong sun, so pack a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. if you are going to be visiting the reef make sure you get some reef safe sunscreen. You can wait till you’re in Australia to purchase this
- Insect repellent: Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects, especially if you plan to explore nature reserves or hike in national parks.
- Power adapters: Australia uses Type I electrical outlets, so ensure you have the right power adapters for your electronic devices. A surge protector multiplug is the best option!
- Medications and toiletries: Pack any prescription medications you require, along with toiletries and personal hygiene products. Make sure you check which medications you need to declare before arriving! Check out my post on how I pack my make-up and toiletries for a long trip here
Buying on Arrival
If you are short on space or don’t want to carry heavy luggage through the airport, try to consider what you can buy once you arrive. I always like to give myself a day after landing to do a bit of shopping. Things like sunscreen, insect repellent, and medication can all be easily purchased there, especially if you’re going to be flying into a large city. If I am going to be working in the county I am visiting, I like to wait till I’m there to purchase my uniform if it is not provided by my employer. There are also plenty of clothing shops such as Cotton On, K-Mart, Target and Ganda that are all great for purchasing the basics from. You’ll fit right in immediately with the Aussie Girl aesthetic too!
Layering is Key
The list above is just what I would pack based on what I wear day to day. If you want to make your own list just remember that Australia’s climate can be quite variable, even within the same day, pack clothes you can layer and that have a multipurpose to save space. By practicing adaptability and layering, you can easily adjust to changing weather conditions. Consider packing lightweight, versatile pieces that can be layered to add or remove warmth as needed. This strategy allows you to stay comfortable while adapting to the ever-changing Australian climate.
Laundry Facilities and Packing Light
To avoid overpacking, consider finding accommodations that have laundry facilities or nearby laundromats. This will allow you to pack fewer clothes and do laundry during your stay, keeping your luggage manageable and leaving room for any souvenirs you may want to bring back home. I really recommend purchasing some laundry sheets from Amazon. They are lightweight and work well on lightly soiled clothes. I used them the whole time I was working in a National Park in Canada, and I still have a few left after 5 months!
Here are a few additional packing tips to make your journey smoother:
- Roll your clothes: Rolling your clothes rather than folding them can save space and help prevent wrinkles.
- Use packing cubes: Packing cubes can keep your belongings organized and make it easier to find what you need without unpacking everything.
Conclusion
Preparing for a 6-month trip, or longer, to Australia from a cold country requires thoughtful planning and consideration. By packing the right clothing for the climate, accessories for protection, and prioritizing adaptability and layering, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your Australian adventure. Remember to thoroughly research the specific regions you plan to visit and adjust your packing list accordingly. Have an incredible journey exploring the natural wonders, vibrant cities, and unique cultural experiences that Australia has to offer!
Remember that the specific regions and time of year you plan to visit may have different climate considerations. Ensure you research and prepare accordingly to have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Packing for Tasmania vs Queensland is a very different story!
