Here's the thing about packing for Australia: most people bring too much. Australia has shops, pharmacies, and outdoor stores in every city and most towns. You don't need to pack for every scenario — you need to pack the things that are hard to replace or that you'll want from day one. Everything else can be bought cheaply on arrival.

The Non-Negotiables

These are the items that should go in your bag first — the things Australia's climate and environment genuinely require. Everything else is secondary.

Sun protection — this is not optional

Australia has some of the highest UV levels on earth. Even on overcast days, the UV index regularly reaches "extreme" (11+) across most of the country. Sunburn can happen in 15 minutes. Pack SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen (you'll use more than you think), a broad-brim hat that actually shades your face and neck, and quality sunglasses with UV protection.

Why this matters: Visitors from the Northern Hemisphere consistently underestimate Australian UV. It's noticeably more intense than the same temperatures in Europe or North America. Apply sunscreen before you leave your accommodation, reapply every 2 hours, and wear a hat. Your future self will thank you.

Clothing — Less Than You Think

Australia is casual. Very casual. You can wear shorts, t-shirts, and thongs (flip-flops) to almost everything except fine dining. Pack light, breathable fabrics and plan to do laundry rather than packing a fresh outfit for every day.

The air conditioning warning: Australian buildings — shops, restaurants, buses, cinemas — are often aggressively air-conditioned. Stepping from 32°C outside into 18°C inside is a genuine temperature shock. A light cardigan or long-sleeve layer you can throw on is more useful than you'd expect.

Shoes — The Most Important Item You'll Pack

Your shoe choice will determine how comfortable your trip is more than almost anything else. Australia involves a lot of walking — on trails, beaches, uneven surfaces, and hot pavement.

Bring these:

Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes with grip. Not brand-new — break them in before your trip. These are for bushwalks, day tours, hinterland trails, and any walking on uneven terrain. Trail runners or lightweight hiking shoes are ideal. They don't need to be heavy boots unless you're doing serious multi-day hiking.

Sandals or thongs (flip-flops). For beaches, casual walking, and giving your feet a break. Reef-style sandals with a back strap are more versatile than flat thongs.

Tour-specific: On Cooee Tours day trips, we always recommend closed-toe shoes with grip. Rainforest trails can be muddy and slippery. Hinterland walks involve uneven ground. Thongs and ballet flats won't cut it.

Tech & Electronics

Voltage note: Australia runs 230V/50Hz. Modern phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage (check the fine print — it should say "100–240V"). You only need a plug adapter, not a voltage converter. Hair dryers and straighteners from 110V countries (US, Japan, parts of South America) will need a converter — or just buy a cheap one in Australia.

Region-Specific Additions

What you add depends on where you're going. Australia's climate zones range from tropical to alpine — the same packing list doesn't work everywhere.

Tropical Queensland Cairns, Daintree, Whitsundays Reef-safe sunscreen (zinc-based), stinger suit or rash vest for ocean swimming Oct–May, tropical-strength insect repellent (DEET 30%+), lightweight long sleeves for mosquitoes at dusk, waterproof phone case.
Southeast Queensland Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast Subtropical year-round — standard list covers it. Add a light rain layer (afternoon storms in summer). Swimwear is essential. Slightly cooler in winter evenings — one warm layer.
Southern Cities Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide Melbourne in particular gets cold in winter (June–Aug): pack a proper jacket, scarf, and closed shoes. Sydney is milder but still cool in winter. Layers are key — weather changes within a day.
Outback Red Centre, Kimberley, Flinders Ranges Wide-brim hat essential (no shade). Buff or neck gaiter for dust. Extra water capacity. Warm layers for cold desert nights. Sturdy shoes. Long sleeves and trousers for sun + scrub protection.
Tasmania / Alpine Overland Track, Blue Mountains, Snowy Mountains Proper waterproof jacket (not just water-resistant). Warm base layers (merino is ideal). Beanie and gloves for alpine. Weather changes rapidly — pack for four seasons.
Great Barrier Reef Day trips from Cairns or Whitsundays Reef-safe sunscreen (mandatory on responsible boats). Rash vest or stinger suit. Towel (some boats provide, some don't — check). Waterproof bag for phone. Motion sickness tablets if prone.

What to Bring on a Day Tour

If you're joining a Cooee Tours day trip, here's what we recommend in your daypack:

What we provide: Transport, guide, and anything specific to the tour is covered. Check your booking confirmation for what's included — some tours include lunch, others recommend bringing your own or include a cafe stop.

What to Leave at Home

These are the things people commonly overpack that either aren't needed or are easily bought in Australia:

What to Buy in Australia Instead

These items are cheap, widely available, and not worth the luggage space:

Chemist Warehouse / Priceline Sunscreen, insect repellent, toiletries, basic first aid, over-the-counter medications. Chemist Warehouse in particular is very affordable.
Kmart / Target / Big W Cheap clothing, hats, thongs, beach towels, adapters, phone accessories, basic travel gear. Kmart is ridiculously cheap for basics.
Coles / Woolworths Reusable water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent. Available in every town.
Anaconda / BCF Outdoor and camping gear if you need it: daypacks, hiking shoes, camping equipment, water bottles. Quality varies but basics are good value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I pack for a trip to Australia?

Essentials: SPF 50+ sunscreen, broad-brim hat, comfortable walking shoes with grip, lightweight breathable clothing, light rain jacket, swimwear, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, and a Type I power adapter. Sun protection is the single most important thing to pack.

Do I need warm clothes in Australia?

Yes, depending on where and when. Even tropical Queensland has cool winter evenings. Melbourne and Tasmania are genuinely cold June–August. Air conditioning everywhere is set very cold. Always pack at least one warm layer.

Can I buy travel essentials in Australia?

Yes — Chemist Warehouse, Kmart, and supermarkets are in every city and most towns. Sunscreen, repellent, hats, basic clothing, toiletries, and accessories are all easy to find. Don't overpack things you can buy cheaply on arrival.

What power adapter do I need?

Australia uses Type I plugs (two angled flat pins). Voltage is 230V/50Hz. Most modern phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage — just need a plug adapter. 110V appliances need a converter.

What should I wear on a day tour?

Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes with grip, lightweight clothing, hat, and sun protection. For rainforest tours, long lightweight trousers protect against scratches and insects. Australia is casual — no smart dress needed.

Now You're Packed — Time to Book

Cooee Tours small-group day trips across Queensland. Local guides, transport included, and we'll tell you exactly what to bring for each tour when you book.

Explore All Tours → Gold Coast Cairns

The One Rule of Packing

Pack less than you think you need. Australia has everything you might have forgotten, the climate is forgiving for light luggage, and the only things you'll genuinely regret not bringing are sun protection and good shoes. Everything else is solvable with a quick Kmart run on arrival.