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If you’re planning on backpacking Australia, this packing list will help you plan what to wear.ย Most backpackers head for the beach experience on the East Coast route while other travelers may prefer to focus on the outback. Please keep in mind that the country is massive so areas vary and your activities will also affect your packing choices.

Since I was only there for a few weeks, several local girls have offered up some helpful tips about what to wear when backpacking Australia!

 


What to Wear when Backpacking Australia


 

I spent 3 weeks traveling Australia’s east coast during my Round the World trip in 2010. A few of ย my highlights included Sydney, the Whitsundays, and Fraser Island.

Your transportation and activities are easy to book upon arrival using one of the many travel agencies around. I highly recommend Peter Pan travel agency as they provide helpful service and great prices.

The east coast can be kind of a party route so a few must have essentials for me on this summer time backpacking trip were jeans, cute going out sandals, and a party dress. With all the flashpacker hostels available, many of them even have straighteners and blow dryers you can use (for a fee).

 

If you’re not backpacking,ย  find out what to wear in Australiaย year round!

 

 

Australia is split into six states and two major mainland territories โ€“ Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, Victoria and Tasmania – each one as unique and varied as the next.

To bring you the most accurate information possible, our Australia lovers, locals and travelers, have assisted in providing awesome tips to help us create a reliable packing list for travel to Australia:

 

Australian Clothing Style

 

Australia has a distinctive fashion style – it is fairly casual, think t-shirts, shorts and thongs (flip flops), expressive of the countries strong beach culture. Larger cities such as Sydney and Melbourne tend to be more stylish and fashion conscious, dressing for dinner is usually expected.

In the Gold Coast Laura describes the style as โ€˜Las Vegas-meets-Miamiโ€™ anything goes regarding fashion, the weather is warm and there is a strong beach culture and party attitude.

Stick to casual clothing such as jeans/shorts, flats, cute tees, and a tailored trench coat, however throw in your favourite party dress, blazer and heels (your call, flats are totally acceptable) if you plan on eating out in fancy places or hitting the cool Australian party scene.

The best advice when packing for Australia would be to dress for the climate, the weather can get insanely hot and the air is humid, people understand if you canโ€™t be bothered to get jazzed up in your finest clothes all of the time.

 

Worth a note: youโ€™re guaranteed to stick out as a tourist (not that itโ€™s a big deal) if you wear baggy shorts, oversized tees, running shoes, a baseball hat and traditional khaki travel pants.

 

Also, Uggs are mainly worn inside as house shoes, not as a fashion statement! Uggs is the type of shoe that you wear during the cold months of the season, it is also the name of the company that sells them.

You donโ€™t have to buy from the companies called UGGs – there are plenty of affordable options that are still originals. While in Australia you will find a lot of stores selling uggs, remember if the price is cheap it usually affects the quality.

 

The secret to traveling light is to create a functional but minimalist capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide!

 

 

what-to-wear-when-backpacking-australia

Tee | Tank | Top | Blouse | Dress 1 | Dress 2 | Jeans 1 | Jeans 2 | Poncho | Coat | Skirt | Sweater | Shoes | Sandals | Hat | Backpack

 

What to Wear when Backpacking Australia in Spring

 

ย Weather

 

Donna Says: Spring can be beautiful, but highly unpredictable. Northern Australia can be hot and humid already, while southern Australia can still be windy, rainy, and cool, with nice days throughout. Be prepared for the biggest range of weather during the Spring- layers, people!

Spring in Australia lasts between the months of September and November, it is a season of generally nice weather however be prepared for wind and rain when the wet season begins in October affecting the northern areas of the Northern Territory, Queensland and Western Australia, the weather in the north will be significantly warmer, cooling as you travel south.

 

Start by reading these general tips on packing for springย travel:

 

Backpacking Australia Packing List

 

Seen as though spring is considered the wet season, pack according to this with items such as natural colored jersey t-shirts, a pair of ย jeans or capris, a thin knit sweater and a printed spring rain coat with hood – think warm and cosy to light and airy.

If you prefer something a bit more feminine and girly opt for a simple skater dress and boho skirt. The best advice for spring would be to layer; clothes can be added and removed depending on what the weather brings.

 

Read these tips on what to wear on a rainy day!

 

Donโ€™t forget a pretty maxi dress, colorful swimsuits and sunnies and sunhat if youโ€™re planning on visiting one of the countryโ€™s tropic areas or fabulous beaches. However maybe hold off until late spring to hit the beaches in the southern states.

For shoes, consider a chic pair of boots or brogues due to the impulsiveness of the climate, pack a pair of pastel leather sandals and a trusty pair of flip flops for when the weather starts to pick up or if youโ€™re planning a trip to the beach.

 

Weโ€™ve rounded up a list of the most comfortable flip flops so you can enjoy your trip pain-free. Take a look!

 

 

what-to-wear-when-backpacking-australia

Tee | Tank | Top | Blouse | Romper | Dressย | Shorts 1 | Jeans | Poncho | Coat | Skirt | Shorts 2 | Sandals 1 | Sandals 2 | Swimsuit | Backpack

 

ย What to Wear when Backpacking Australia inย Summer

 

Weather

 

Diane Says: Mild to Hot! Anywhere between 25 and 45 degrees!ย Summer in Australia runs from December to February, the weather is HOT in most of the country with average maximum temperatures exceeding 30ยฐC, be prepared for frequent heat waves and periods of drought.

The weather differs throughout the country, ranging from unbearable hot in the north and desert regions to lovely and mild in South Australia and Tasmania, generally it gets warmer as you travel north and cooler as you head south, the wet season will still be present in the north, so be prepared for tropical rain.

 

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summerย travel:

 

Backpacking Australia Packing List

 

Summer is the season of fun and festivities (and Christmas, which just seems crazy), hit up a festival such as The Sydney Festival, held from around the second week in Jan, and celebrate the local art and culture. Summer is peak of the beach season, so take advantage and head to the beautiful coast, or pay a visit to one of the nearby islands, such as those along the Great Barrier Reef.

Take advantage of the beautiful summer weather by packing accordingly; opt for a pair of shorts, neutral singlets (tank tops), printed camis and tunics, your favorite maxi dress, boho skirts and a pretty sundress to complete you travel wardrobe, the north can get very humid so lightweight fabric is key, think cottons and silks that are light and breathable and will absorb sweat and release body heat.

 

Here are some gorgeous outfits on what to wear for a beach resort vacation!

 

In South Australia and Tasmania the weather can drop cool at night so pack a light jacket or printed kimono, a pair of Capri or palazzo trousers and some closed toe leather sandals.

Donโ€™t forget to pack a printed bikini or swimsuit, flip-flops, your favourite sunnies and a floppy sun hat, summer is the best time to explore the countryโ€™s beautiful beaches ideal for relaxing, boating and water sports. Donโ€™t forget high SPF sunscreen!! Australiaโ€™s sun rays are some of the harshest in the world.

 

Here are the best swimwear trends of the season!

 

 

 

 

what-to-wear-when-backpacking-australia

Tee | Tank | Top | Blouse | Dress 1 | Dress 2 | Jeans 1 | Jeans 2 | Poncho | Coat | Skirt | Sweater | Shoes | Sandals | Hat | Backpack

 

What to Wear when Backpacking Australia inย Autumn

 

Weather

 

Donna Says: Autumn is a lot like spring here- the weather is still unpredictable, but expect more wind than rain.ย The Autumn months are from March to May, the weather in autumn can be unpredictable, it is similar to spring but slightly colder.

The temp can range anywhere from 17 to 25 degrees, sometimes a tad warmer, sometimes dropping cooler – the best advice would be to check the weather forecast before you travel. Australia is beautiful in autumn, check out Vivid Sydney, taking place at the end of May through till June, a spectacular light and music event.

 

Start by reading these general tips on packing for autumnย travel:

 

Backpacking Australia Packing List

 

Your autumn wardrobe will be similar to springs, pack your favorite pair of jeans, a loose knit pullover, a printed blouse, leggings, and a neutral colored tunic that can be easily mixed and matched, pack a cute tea dress if you plan on heading out for nice meals or drinks.

 

Here’s what TFGย  readers voted onย the best leggings for women whoย travel!

 

Pair your clothing with opaque tights, a light jacket (such as denim) and a cotton scarf for the cooler days and nights, again the best advice would be to layer, adding and taking pieces off depending on the weather.

Australia has amazing walking and hiking areas, take advantage of the cool and dry weather by heading out and enjoying the great outdoors, pack a pair of leather boots or hiking shoes to enjoy these excursions to the fullest.

 

Ankle boots are so versatile, you canโ€™t go wrong with them! Here are theย best ankle boots for fall!

 

 

what-to-wear-when-backpacking-australia

Tee | Tank | Top | Blouse | Dress 1 | Dress 2ย | Jeans 1 | Jeans 2 | Ponchoย | Coat | Skirt | Sweater | Shoes | Boots | Hat | Backpack

 

What to Wear when Backpacking Australia inย Winter

 

Weather

 

Laura Says: Cool to cold. The locals are โ€˜rugged upโ€™ in winter, but often I walk on the beach dressed head to toe in winter gear and will see an overseas tourist in board shorts taking a leisurely dip in the ocean.ย Winter โ€“ June โ€“ August.

Diane describes winter as โ€˜Cold! Anywhere between 12 and 17 degrees.โ€™, but to me (from the UK) that actually sounds quite pleasant, if you donโ€™t live in a subtropical climate you could actually find Australiaโ€™s winters very mild.

The days still tend to be quite sunny and warm, however you could find it a little cooler in the mornings and evenings, winter is high season for the beach cities in the north where thereโ€™s warm, sunny (24-30ยฐ) , dry days and cooler evenings, as predicted the south is much cooler, but is still reasonably mild.

 

Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:

 

Backpacking Australia Packing List

 

Winter is the perfect season to check out one of the countryโ€™s ski resort and enjoy the mountain slopes and snow activities, the best places include the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales, Victoriaโ€™s high country and the mountain areas of Tasmania.

Clothing wise really depend on where youโ€™re planning on heading, in the north of the country its prime beach weather, so donโ€™t put away your flip flops and bikini just yet.

 

These are theย best swimsuit coverups and styles of the season!

 

As a general rule opt for embellished sweaters, your fave jeans and cropper trousers, and neutral coloured tunic or mid sleeved shirt to easily mix and match and a lightweight jacket such as a classic mac.

To add femininity to your wardrobe pack a mid-sleeved shirt dress and opaque tights, accessories with a cute cotton scarf and wool fedora. The shoe of choice would be ankle boots!

 

Find out how to turn any one of your dresses into versatile dresses!

 

Climate Overview

 

South Australia, New South Wales and Victoria have milder climates, quite Mediterranean, than Western Australia (dry and hot), North Territory and Queensland (hot and humid) and Tasmania (quite cool), there is a large variation in climate and temp.

Dianeโ€™s advice is to check your destination state and cityโ€™s weather before you travel so you can pack appropriate clothing. Mid-November is when the South of Australia gets pretty hot, this means that the temperature in the North will be insane reaching +45C and sometimes +50C.

Juliaโ€™s main advice to combat this extreme weather is to stay hydrated, constantly use sunscreen and wear long sleeved thin tops, pants and a hat โ€“ why long? Youโ€™ll become less sun damage and dehydrated, stay in the shade as much as possible.

Iโ€™m not got to lie; it took me a while to get my head round all the differing climates across Australiaโ€™s states and territories, because the country is so large the weather can vary significantly in different areas.

 

Hereโ€™s my attempt of a breakdown so you can get an idea of the weather and pack accordingly:

 

  • New South Walesย : Weather in Sydney โ€“ The climate is pleasantly temperate all year round.
  • Victoria: Weather in Melbourne – Victoriaโ€™s has a range of different climate zones, from the hot, dry regions of the northwest to the alpine snowfields in the northeast. Melbourne is known for its changeable weather; generally the city enjoys a temperate climate.
  • South Australia: Weather in Adelaide – South Australiaโ€™s climate ranges from hot and dry in the inland to milder and wetter in the south and the south-east coast.
  • Western Australia: Weather in Perth – Western Australia has a number of climates due to its massive size. In the north-west the summer is ‘wet’ season, the interior is mainly dry with hot summer temps; whereas the southwest has mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers.
  • Queensland: Weather in Brisbane – Brisbane has subtropical weather – warm weather for most of the year.
    Weather in the Gold Coast โ€“ The Gold Coast has an enjoyable sub-tropical climate all-year round.
  • Tasmania: Summers are mild and rainfall is spread fairly consistently during the year.
  • Australian Capital Territory: Weather in Canberra – Canberra has a mainly dry, inland climate.
  • North: Weather in the North โ€“ The north, ranging from central and northern parts of the Northern Territory and Queensland and the northern parts of Western Australia, has a tropical climate with high temps and high humidity, there is distinct wet (Oct to Apr) and dry (May to Sept) seasons.

 

Snow is uncommon in temperate Australia and unheard of in the dry and tropical regions, in Great Dividing Range โ€“ mountain range that passes through New South Wales and Victoria there are regular winter snowfalls.

 

Use packing cubes to help you organize and even compress your belongings to maximize your space.

 

Travel Essentials

 

One of the main travel essentials for Australia would be SUNSCREEN! The country has some of strongest sun rays in the world and regular application is essential, as well as sun cream pack your favorite sunnies and a broad- brimmed hat to combat the suns glare.

Good walking shoes/ hiking boots are a must, Australia is infamous for its outdoor activities, hikes and bush walks are more than likely going to be included in your itinerary and youโ€™ll not want to miss out, the country is home to some of the deadliest creatures, including spiders and snakes, so appropriate shoes for your exploring plans are essentials.

 

Find outย theย benefits of polarized sunglassesย plus myย top picks!

 

A colorful swimsuit, sarong, maxi dress (effortlessly glamorous vibe that fits in well in Australia) and flip flops are a definite if you plan on spending time discovering the countryโ€™s beautiful beaches, according to Laura youโ€™ll be able to pick up the best swimwear and cover ups in Australia, so maybe treat yourself and pick one up whilst travelling.

Donโ€™t forget some insect repellent for those annoying little critters; however itโ€™s easy enough to pick up over there if you donโ€™t fancy stocking up beforehand.

 

Weโ€™ve got a round up of twenty beautifulย summer maxi dresses!

 

A good tip would be to take some chic workout gear, the locals Aussies are active people -regularly outdoors walking, jogging and biking, taking in the beautiful scenery and beaches and enjoying the gorgeous climate, youโ€™ll fit right in if you love to be active and keep fit.

Finally pack a strong umbrella and lightweight waterproof hooded jacket, be prepared though, you might end up wrestling with your brolly in the strong winds.

 

Worth a note: Stock up on Australian dollars when venturing out, lots of eateries still only take cash.

 

Australia Shopping

 

Unfortunately, stores in Australia can be quite pricey, be prepared for constant sticker shock. If you’ve forgotten an item check out a local Target, K-Mart of Big W, these are good budget friendly storesย  for picking up forgotten accessories, beauty items, clothes and shoes.

 

If you fancy updating your holiday wardrobe and want to spend a little more check out โ€“

  • Sportsgirl โ€“ The brand is a leader in the Australian fashion industry, Sportsgirl is a younger, more fun alternative to the more conservative sister label Sportscraft.
  • Witchery โ€“ One of Australiaโ€™s most talked about fashion brands, Witchery is relied on to provide quality basic pieces and on trend looks, the brand offers womenโ€™s apparel, shoes, accessories, eyewear, underwear and beachwear,ย  Witchery has 80 concept stores strategically positioned in key locations around Australia.
  • Country Road โ€“ The brand is passionate about creating โ€˜beautiful merchandise designed to reflect an authentically Australian way of life,โ€™ they combine design trends with fine tailoring and attention to detail, Country Road stands for โ€˜natural simplicity with a relaxed, spontaneous style.โ€™ The brand produces womenโ€™s and menโ€™s clothing, footwear and accessories, childrenโ€™s clothing and home wares.

 

I youโ€™re a bargain hunter youโ€™re guaranteed to find some unique gems at local thrift stores such as Salvos and Goodwill.

 

Australia Travel Tips

 

Useful tips and tricks from our amazing Australian locals and travelers:

 

TFG recommends: Lonely Planet travel guides: Lonely Planet Australia or Lonely Planet East Coast Australia.

Transportation: Transportation of choice in Australia includes long distance bus companies such as the Greyhound (which I used and recommend); camper rentals, and internal flights. For flights,ย Flight Centre is a travel agency I saw during my trip up the east coast.

Accommodation: Hostels are the cheapest way to go in Australia and by cheap I mean starting at $25 a night which isnโ€™t very cheap. You can use booking sites such as Hostelworldย to reserve a bed. If youโ€™re looking for fun and modern, although pricey, Base hostels were a popular option in both Australia and New Zealand.

 

 

what-to-wear-when-backpacking-australia

what-to-wear-when-backpacking-australia

what-to-wear-when-backpacking-australia

what-to-wear-when-backpacking-australia

 

 


What are your best tips on what to wear when backpacking Australia? ย Please share in the comment section below!


 

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