A State-by-State Guide for UK Travellers
Australia is one of those rare destinations where you can go from golden beaches to red deserts, lush rainforests to buzzing cities—all in one trip. But with such a diverse landscape (and climate), knowing what to pack can be tricky.
As a traveller from the UK, you’ll want to consider seasonal differences (it’s summer in Australia when it’s winter back home!), regional climates, and Australia’s relaxed yet adventurous style. This guide will help you feel prepared and pack with confidence—no matter which state you’re visiting.
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Travel Essentials – Wherever You’re Headed
No matter your route through Australia, these items should always make it into your suitcase:
- Passport with valid ETA (Electronic Travel Authority)
- Travel insurance documents
- Credit/debit cards – Visa and Mastercard widely accepted
- UK to Australia power adapter (Australia uses plug type I, 230V)
- High SPF sunscreen (30+) – the Aussie sun is strong year-round
- Insect repellent – especially for tropical or bushland areas
- Reusable water bottle
- Comfortable walking shoes/trainers
- Swimwear & beach towel
- Light daypack or small backpack
- Basic first-aid kit & necessary medication (with a GP letter if needed)
- Digital or printed copies of travel bookings and ID
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Quick Note on Seasons
Australia’s seasons are the opposite of the UK:
- Summer: December–February
- Autumn: March–May
- Winter: June–August
- Spring: September–November
Be sure to check the weather in each region you’re visiting—it can vary widely!
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New South Wales (NSW) – Sydney, Blue Mountains, Byron Bay
Climate: Warm and coastal
Pack:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or linen)
- Swimwear for Bondi or Manly Beach
- A few smart-casual outfits for Sydney’s dining scene
- Walking shoes for the Blue Mountains
- Light jumper or jacket for cooler nights or air-conditioned venues
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Victoria (VIC) – Melbourne, Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley
Climate: Unpredictable!
Pack:
- Layers, layers, layers – T-shirts, cardigans, light jumpers
- A good quality waterproof jacket (Melbourne is known for spontaneous showers)
- Closed shoes/trainers for city walks and vineyards
- Scarf or extra layer for evenings—even in summer
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Queensland (QLD) – Brisbane, Cairns, Whitsundays, Gold Coast
Climate: Subtropical in the south, tropical in the north
Pack:
- Breathable, light clothing (linen shirts, cotton shorts)
- Wide-brim hat and sunglasses
- Swimwear and sandals
- Reef-safe sunscreen for snorkelling/diving
- Lightweight long-sleeved tops and trousers for mozzie protection in rainforest areas
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Northern Territory (NT) – Darwin, Kakadu, Uluru
Climate: Tropical in the Top End, desert-like in the centre
Pack:
- Moisture-wicking, UV-protective clothing
- Lightweight trousers and long sleeves for sun and bugs
- Wide-brim hat or cap
- Strong insect repellent (especially for Kakadu)
- Sturdy walking shoes or hiking sandals
- Head torch for outback stargazing or early sunrise tours
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South Australia (SA) – Adelaide, Barossa Valley, Kangaroo Island
Climate: Mediterranean – warm summers, cooler winters
Pack:
- Smart casual outfits for wine tasting and city dining
- A light jacket or jumper for evenings
- Comfortable shoes for wildlife walks and cellar doors
- Swimwear and towel for beach days
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Western Australia (WA) – Perth, Margaret River, Broome
Climate: Hot and dry in the north, mild in the south
Pack:
- Summer wear (vests, shorts, dresses)
- Swimwear for the Coral Coast or Indian Ocean beaches
- Fly net or insect repellent for remote outback areas
- Trainers or sandals with grip for bushwalks
- Light jacket for breezy evenings in Perth or the southwest
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Tasmania (TAS) – Hobart, Cradle Mountain, Freycinet
Climate: Cool and temperate
Pack:
- Warm layers – even in summer, mornings can be crisp
- Waterproof jacket for national park hikes
- Thermal base layer for alpine areas or winter visits
- Gloves, beanie, scarf for colder months
- Binoculars or camera for spotting wombats, wallabies and more!
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Adventure Add-Ons
If you’re planning specific outdoor activities, consider also packing:
- Dry bag and travel towel for kayaking or water adventures
- Compression socks for long-haul flights or long hikes
- Snorkel mask if you prefer your own
- GoPro or action camera for reef and rainforest thrills
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Style Tips for UK Travellers
- Australia is generally laid-back when it comes to dress codes.
- Most places—even nicer restaurants—welcome smart casual.
- Leave the heavy coats behind unless you’re heading to Tasmania or the Snowy Mountains in winter.
- Don’t forget flip-flops (aka “thongs”) for beach days!
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Ready to Go?
Australia offers incredible diversity in climate, scenery and culture, so packing smart means you’ll be able to enjoy it all—comfortably and confidently.