Australia Travel Checklist: Packing Tips and Must-Know Travel Prep
Australia Travel Planning - Part 5
This is part 5 of the Australia Planning series. Other articles are linked at the bottom of the post.
Australia is an incredible travel destination with so much to offer, from its beautiful beaches and coral reefs to the vibrant cities and vast outback. If you're planning a trip to this incredible country, there's a lot to think about to ensure your journey goes smoothly. As someone who has traveled to Australia, I know how overwhelming the planning process can be. But don’t worry – I’ve put together a comprehensive checklist that will help you pack and prepare for your Australian adventure.
Here’s everything you need to do before you hop on that plane.
1. Create a Rough Itinerary
Before you start packing, it’s essential to have a rough itinerary in place. Australia is huge, and with so many incredible places to visit, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Whether you're going for a two-week holiday or a month-long adventure, having a basic plan will help guide your packing choices.
Start by choosing the cities or regions you want to visit. Popular destinations include Sydney, Melbourne, the Great Barrier Reef, the Outback, and Tasmania. If you plan to do some road trips, make sure you note the driving distances and expected weather conditions in each region. This will help you pack clothes and gear that suit the conditions.
Also, if you're planning to take internal flights, such as from Sydney to Cairns, check out the baggage policies and weight limits of the airlines you’ll be using.
If you need help planning the itinerary, check out Part 1 of my Australia planning series:
2. Buy Australian Currency (AUD)
While credit cards are widely accepted in Australia, it’s always a good idea to have some local currency on hand for small purchases or when you’re in more remote areas where cards may not be accepted. Before you travel, make sure to buy Australian dollars (AUD) either through your bank, at a currency exchange, or online.
I recommend exchanging a small amount of money before you leave so you have cash upon arrival, and then you can use ATMs once you’re in Australia for larger withdrawals. Most ATMs will offer competitive exchange rates, but watch out for withdrawal fees.
3. Buy an eSIM or SIM Card for Data
In today’s world, staying connected while traveling is crucial. I recommend getting an eSIM or a local SIM card for your phone before you leave or as soon as you land. This allows you to have access to mobile data for navigating, booking things on the go, and staying in touch with friends and family.
An eSIM is a great option because it can be activated digitally without needing to swap physical SIM cards, and it's available in many countries, including Australia. There are several Australian telecom providers like Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone that offer travel eSIMs. You can purchase them online before you leave or buy one at the airport when you land.
4. Arrange Airport Transfers
Once you’ve landed in Australia, you’ll want a smooth transition from the airport to your accommodation. While taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available, I recommend arranging an airport transfer in advance, especially if you're traveling to a busy city like Sydney or Melbourne.
Many hotels offer airport shuttle services, or you can book a private transfer through various services like Viator or Get Your Guide. If you’re traveling to a more remote area, such as a resort in the outback, make sure to confirm your airport transfer well before you arrive. This will save you time and avoid any stress after a long flight.
5. Review Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a must when traveling abroad, especially to a country as diverse as Australia. Whether you’re worried about health coverage, trip cancellations, or unexpected events, having the right travel insurance can give you peace of mind throughout your trip. Visitors Coverage is one of the companies as is Allianz or Blue Cross.
Make sure your insurance covers medical emergencies, flight delays, lost luggage, and activities like hiking, snorkeling, or surfing, especially if you’re doing adventurous activities. Double-check for any age restrictions as they can vary between suppliers.
6. Apply for Australian Visa or ETA
Depending on your nationality, (mostly everyone except New Zealand) you will need a visa to enter Australia. Most visitors will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or a Visitor Visa before arrival. The application process is generally simple and is done through the Australian Department of Home Affairs App or website. App is the preferred method.
If you're from the U.S., Canada, or several other countries, an ETA is the easiest and most common option. The approval process is quick (often within minutes), but you’ll want to apply at least a few weeks before your trip to be safe. If your application is refused, or there is a tech glitch with the App, you will need the extra time to sort it out.
Note: Without this visa, you will be denied entry to Australia and will be prevented from boarding the plane.
7. Create Credit Card Travel Notifications
Before you leave for Australia, it’s a good idea to notify your credit card companies about your travel plans. Most banks have online tools where you can specify the dates and countries you’ll be visiting. This prevents your card from being flagged for suspicious activity when you use it overseas.
I always recommend having at least two forms of payment (such as a debit card and a credit card) in case one gets lost or blocked. Make sure to check the foreign transaction fees on your cards. Some cards offer no foreign transaction fees, which can save you a lot of money over time.
8. Pack Smart and According to the Weather
Australia is known for its diverse climate, so it’s important to pack smart depending on the regions you’ll be visiting. Generally, the north of Australia is tropical and warm, while the southern areas can experience cooler temperatures, especially during the winter months (June to August).
Here’s what to pack for different regions:
Sydney, Melbourne, and cities along the coast: Light, breathable clothing for the summer months (November to March), and warmer layers for the winter.
The Outback: Sturdy hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts for sun protection, and a wide-brimmed hat for shade.
The Great Barrier Reef: Swimsuits, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes for snorkeling or diving.
In general, Australia’s sun is intense, so sunscreen is a must, and it’s always a good idea to carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
9. Ensure You Have All Necessary Documents
Before you leave, make sure you have all your important documents ready and organized. This includes:
Your passport (with at least six months of validity beyond your arrival date)
Your Australian Visa or ETA approval
Travel insurance details
Hotel and flight reservations
Emergency contacts and medical details
I recommend keeping both physical and digital copies of your important documents just in case. Google Drive, Dropbox, or a similar cloud service is a great place to store your documents, and they’ll be accessible no matter where you are. But, relying on airport Wi-Fi to access them, can be challenging.
When I travel, I go “old school” with printed copies of all reservations, itineraries and documents.
10. Download Useful Apps and Maps
There are plenty of useful apps to help you navigate and explore Australia. Some must-have apps for your trip include:
Google Maps: For navigation and finding places to visit.
TripAdvisor: For restaurant reviews and activity recommendations.
XE Currency: To check exchange rates while traveling.
Uber: For easy transport in most cities.
TheTrainLine: For train schedules if you plan to travel via rail.
You might also want to download offline maps or apps that can help with planning your trips, especially if you're heading to remote areas where data service might be limited.
11. Other Tips to Keep in Mind
Stay Safe in the Sun: Australia’s UV levels are high, so always wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Beware of Wildlife: While Australia’s wildlife is fascinating, some animals can be dangerous. Follow safety advice, especially when swimming in the ocean or hiking in national parks. Sharks, crocodiles and spiders are the known dangers but be aware that kangaroos, koalas and dingoes are just as dangerous.
Check for Local Events: If you're traveling to a big city, check local event calendars for festivals or events happening during your stay.
Check your Medications: You do not want to run out while you are away. Many pharmacies will increase your quantity if you ask for vacation coverage.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for your trip to Australia is all about organization and planning ahead. From creating your itinerary and packing the right gear to handling the essentials like your visa, insurance, and mobile data, the more you plan ahead, the smoother your trip will be.
So, take a deep breath, check off each item on this list, and get excited – Australia is waiting for you! Safe travels!
For other Australia planning tips, check out the other posts in the series.
Part 1 - Australia Travel Planning - Part 1: Deciding What to See and Do
Part 2 - 10 Important Tips Before Booking Your Flights
Part 3 - Navigating Your Australian Adventure: Tips for Choosing the Perfect Accommodation
Part 4 - Navigating Your Australian Adventure: Refining the Itinerary