Australia’s summer (December to February) is sunny, hot, and wildly diverse. Think beach days in Byron Bay, tropical humidity in Cairns, and dry desert heat in the Red Centre.
Whether you’re surfing in Sydney, wine tasting in Margaret River, or road-tripping the coast, this Australia summer packing list has you covered—by region, weather, and vibe.
What To Pack for Australia Summer
Packing smart will help you make the most of your trip. Here’s everything you need to bring for a comfortable and stylish adventure.
Carry-On Suitcase / Travel Bag Duffle / Portable Steamer / Packing cubes / Luggage scale / Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones / Speaker / Portable Charger / Universal Travel adapter / Compact Hair Dryer / Eye Mask / Waterproof Toiletry Bag Hanging / Zipper Pouch / Water BOTTLE / Liquid I.V. Hydration Vegan
If you want more options to have everything organized and well packed, take a look at these suggestions.
1. Rolling Backpack / 2. Luggage (large) / 3. Luggage (small) / 4. Toiletry Bag / 5. Beach Bag / 6. Backpack / 7. Packing Cubes
☀️ Coastal + City Australia (Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Gold Coast)
Weather: Hot, sunny, humid at times. Avg 75–95°F (24–35°C)
👗 Clothes
- 👚 Breathable tops (cotton or linen, 4–5)
- 👗 Sundresses or rompers (2–3)
- 🩳 Shorts or linen pants (2–3)
- 🧣 Lightweight scarf for sun or A/C
- 👙 Swimsuits (2) + beach cover-up
- 🧘 Activewear (for hikes or walks)
- 🧥 Light cardigan or denim jacket (cool evenings or malls)
- 🩴 Flip-flops or slides
- 👟 Casual sneakers or sandals
- 🧦 No-show socks (3–4 pairs)
💆 Skincare
- 🧴 SPF 50+ facial + body sunscreen (daily essential!)
- 💧 After-sun lotion or aloe
- 🧴 Lightweight gel moisturizer
- 💋 Lip balm with SPF
- 🧴 Facial mist or toner (refreshing on hot days)
💇 Haircare
- 🪮 Wide-tooth comb + clips or scrunchies
- 🧴 UV-protectant hair spray or serum
- 🧴 Anti-frizz or leave-in conditioner
- 🧼 2-in-1 shampoo + conditioner (beach-friendly)
📱 Tech
- 🔌 Type I power adapter
- 📱 Phone + charger + portable power bank
- 📷 Camera or waterproof phone case
- 🎧 Bluetooth earbuds for beach playlists
🌴 Tropical North (Cairns, Darwin, Whitsundays)
Weather: Hot, humid, wet season. Avg 80–100°F (27–38°C)
👗 Clothes
- 🧢 Wide-brim hat or cap
- 👚 Sleeveless or loose-fitting tops (4–5)
- 🩳 Quick-dry shorts or flowy skirts
- 👗 Lightweight dresses or playsuits (2–3)
- 🧘 Moisture-wicking activewear
- 👙 Swimsuits (2) + rash guard for reef snorkeling
- 🩴 Water sandals or reef shoes
- 👟 Breathable walking shoes
💆 Skincare
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen (for Great Barrier Reef & beaches)
- 💧 After-sun aloe
- 🧴 Hydrating toner + light moisturizer
- 💋 Lip balm with SPF
- 🧴 Bug spray with DEET (mosquitoes love the tropics!)
💇 Haircare
- 🧴 Leave-in conditioner or hydrating spray
- 🪮 Comb + headbands or clips
- 🧼 Dry shampoo (humidity = oily roots)
📱 Tech
- 📱 Waterproof phone pouch
- 📸 GoPro or waterproof camera
- 🔌 Type I adapter
- 🔋 Solar or outdoor power bank
🏜️ Outback & Inland (Uluru, Alice Springs, inland WA/QLD)
Weather: Hot, dry days + cool nights. Avg 75–105°F (24–40°C)
👗 Clothes
- 🧢 Breathable sunhat + sunglasses
- 👚 Light long-sleeve shirts for sun protection
- 🩳 Hiking shorts or convertible pants
- 🧥 Light fleece or jacket for evenings
- 🧘 Activewear (for hikes, sunrise walks)
- 👟 Hiking boots or trail shoes
- 🧦 Breathable socks (3–4)
💆 Skincare
- 🧴 SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen
- 💧 Hydrating serum or mist
- 🧴 Bug repellent (especially near watering holes)
- 🧴 Barrier cream or balm for dry skin
💇 Haircare
- 🪮 Brush or comb
- 🧴 Dust-protecting spray or leave-in
- 🧼 Shampoo + conditioner sachets
📱 Tech
- 📱 Offline GPS or road trip app
- 🔌 Type I adapter
- 🔋 Heavy-duty power bank
- 📷 Camera for sunsets and stargazing
🌍 Must-Haves for All of Australia in Summer
- 🛂 Passport + ETA visa (if required)
- 📁 Travel wallet
- 💳 Credit/debit cards + some AUD cash
- 📱 Phone + backup battery
- 🔌 Type I power adapter
- 💊 Prescription meds + pain relievers
- 🧴 Hand sanitizer + wipes
- 🧺 Laundry pouch or mesh bag
- 🛍️ Foldable beach/shopping tote
- 🧻 Pocket tissues
- 💧 Reusable water bottle (essential in the heat!)
✈️ Travel Tips for Summer in Australia
- ☀️ Always wear SPF — the Aussie sun is no joke
- 👡 Opt for open-toe shoes in humid cities
- 🎒 Use packing cubes to split beachwear & citywear
- 🧴 Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen for the Great Barrier Reef
- 📲 Download public transport apps for Sydney, Melbourne, etc.
