Hey there, fellow adventurers! Searching for the ultimate packing list for your next adventure? Planning a year-long trip around Australia is thrilling, but packing for it? That’s a whole different ball game. As a family who flew in from Europe with just two suitcases each, we had to get really smart about what to bring and what to leave behind. Let’s dive into what we learned about packing light and prioritizing the essentials for a hassle-free adventure down under.

Avoiding Unnecessary Items

First off, let’s talk about the temptation to overpack. When you’re staring at your wardrobe and all your travel gear, it’s easy to think you need everything. Spoiler alert: you don’t. I will try my best and list all the mistakes we made so you don’t have to 😊

Clothing

Australia’s climate varies, but heavy winter clothing? You can mostly skip it unless you’re planning to spend a lot of time in Tasmania or other consistently cold areas. Pack a couple of warm items for the cooler regions and evening chills but keep it minimal. Think versatile layers – a light fleece, a good wind jacket or raincoat, and some thermal tops and bottoms. Three long pants and three jumpers are more than enough. Roll your clothes to save space and opt for natural, quick-dry fabrics that are easy to wash and wear multiple times. 

Top tip: try to select clothes that are versatile, can be easily combined and you can create several outfits with them. The best is to lay them out on the bed and see which pieces are most variable. Also, pack t-shirts or tops that can be used for sleeping and the same for pants or leggings.

Shoes

Shoes take up a lot of space. I would suggest to stuck to maximum three-four pairs each (obviously ladies are allowed a couple more like ballerinas or wedges): sturdy hiking boots (if you plan to hike) or sneakers, comfortable walking shoes, a pair or two of flip-flops or sandals. This combo covers pretty much every activity you’ll encounter, from beach days to bushwalks. If needed you can buy water shoes locally. 

Duplicates

Don’t pack duplicates of anything you can buy on the road. Toiletries, basic medicines, even clothes – Australia has plenty of shops. We realized that bringing two of everything just ate up precious space and weight. Besides, you will want to buy some local stuff as well 😊

Heavy Books

As a book lover, this was tough for me, although I “only” took 3 books, I found out that in almost every caravan park you can borrow or swap books, so I could have spared some precious space and grams. If you don’t insist on feeling the paper under your fingers an e-reader is a brilliant option. It saves so much space and weight, and you still have all your favorite reads at your fingertips.

Remember, anything you forget or realize you need later can be purchased in Australia. From clothes and shoes to toys and electronics, you’ll find everything you need here. Only very specific items, like certain medications or personal care products unique to your home country, are worth bringing along.

Kids’ Packing

Packing for kids, especially toddlers, is a whole other challenge. It’s tempting to bring their entire wardrobe but trust me, it’s not necessary.

Clothes

Pack light. Babies outgrow clothes quickly and then tend to slow down after 15-18 months, so bring just current-size clothes (leave home what just fits) and a few next-size-up items. Stick to easy-to-wash, quick-dry outfits. I find that toddlers still need more changing due to their food “encounters”, potty training, and outside ventures, not talking about babies that have more “accidents” happening so I would consider bringing more pajamas, short-sleeved bodysuits and tops that are prone to get dirty more often. For the rest a couple of each essential is plenty. Otherwise, you have to do laundry more often.

Toys and Games

Limit toys to a few favorites and some new ones, which are more appropriate for later stages and for the flight. I know this is going to be difficult and I packed way too many toys and I regret it because after a few months with a limited variety of toys your child will be bored of them and you will buy new ones anyway. And which ones will you take back home?  Although it is individual, and you should pack what keeps your toddler interested here are some of my pics: some books (animals, vehicles, underwater, goodnight stories), a few cars, some drawing supplies, activity or quiet book, shape sorting cube and some entertaining, multiuse and fidgeting toys for the car and plane. Kids are great at adapting and finding new ways to entertain themselves, especially in a new and exciting environment, so do not stress if you cannot fit it all.

Feeding Gear

Use collapsible or suction dishes for meals to save space, some baby food containers, and baby cutlery. Reusable pouches for snacks and meals on the go are also a great option. Do not forget the bibs and wet wipes.

Adjusting to Your Journey Style

Your packing list should reflect your travel style and the type of journey you’re embarking on.

Fashion-Forward Travel

If you or your partner love to dress up, pack a few dresses, skirts, and a pair of wedges or nicer shoes. Versatile items that can be dressed up or down are key.

Outdoor Adventures

If your trip is more about hiking and outdoor activities, focus on functional clothes. Think sportswear, hiking shoes, and maybe even a baby hiking carrier if you’re traveling with a toddler. If you are after a specific sport, don’t forget your gear. 

Beach Life

Planning to spend most of your time by the sea? Pack plenty of swimwear, thongs (flip-flops), shorts, and t-shirts. Don’t forget cover-ups, sarongs, and hats to protect against the sun, as well as a beach shelter for the little one. 

Memory maker

If you plan to document your ventures in detail, your camera, lenses, drone, laptop, or GoPro and accessories will take up more space in your luggage. 

Streamlining Packing

Maximize your suitcase space with these tips:

Rolling Clothes

Roll, don’t fold. It saves space and reduces wrinkles. You can also use packing cubes to keep everything organized and compression bags for bulkier items like jackets and bedding. 

Multi-Purpose Items

Pack items that serve more than one purpose. A sarong can be a towel, a blanket, a sunshade, or even a makeshift curtain. A good-quality travel towel dries quickly and takes up much less space than a regular towel.

Toiletries

Keep toiletries minimal. Most things can be bought on the road. We brought travel-sized bottles and refilled them as needed.

Pack smart

Use every space, fill up your shoes with socks, cups, and containers with other smaller items, and use every crevice. You should have seen me I wearing a lot of jumpers just to take a couple more and “smuggling” toy cars in all my pockets. 

Minimizing Clutter

Living in a caravan means space is at a premium. Keeping it tidy and organized makes a big difference.

Storage Solutions

Use collapsible storage bins and hanging organizers for small items. We designated specific spots for everything – a shoe rack by the door, a basket for toys, and hooks for jackets and hats. Storage boxes on every shelf and in the car boot too. This kept clutter to a minimum and made it easier to find things.

Regular Decluttering

Make it a habit to declutter regularly. Every few weeks, go through your stuff and get rid of anything you haven’t used, you can sell it online, donate it, or bin it. This helps keep your space manageable and comfortable.

Multi-Functional Furniture

If your caravan has multi-functional furniture like a dining table that converts into a bed, make the most of it. It’s a great way to maximize space without sacrificing comfort.

Maximizing Convenience

When you’re on the road for a year, convenience is key. Here are some items that can make your journey smoother:

Portable Cooler

A good portable cooler keeps your drinks and snacks fresh and is a lifesaver on long driving days. It also doubled as extra seating or a table when needed.

Travel Mug

A quality travel mug is essential for keeping your coffee hot during early morning starts.

Charging Station

A reliable charging station keeps all your devices powered up. One with multiple USB ports is super handy for charging phones, tablets, and other gadgets simultaneously.

Safety Gear

Don’t forget a roadside emergency kit and a spare tire. These are crucial for any road trip, especially in remote areas where help might be far away.

Outlet adapter

Make sure you bring several of them, there are quite a few items to be charged sometimes more at the same time like phones, laptops, cameras, drones, GoPros, shavers, hair dryers, epilators, torches, power banks – anything with no Australian power cord, and you will still need sockets for TV, heater, vacuum cleaner and so on.

Extras We Found Useful

Here are a few more items we found indispensable:

Scarf or sarong

This is the most versatile thing you can pack. We use it every day, from shading on the plane, as a cover in a stroller, as a scarf, as a sarong, as a blanket on the beach or in the park, as a cover-up against the sun while changing bikini on the beach, you name it.

First Aid Kit

Always have a well-stocked first aid kit. Include basics like bandages, antiseptics especially with kids, and pain relievers, as well as any specific medications your family might need.

Compact Stroller

For our toddler, a compact, foldable stroller was a game-changer. It didn’t take up much space and was perfect for sightseeing and strolls in new towns.

Lightweight Camping Chairs

We packed a couple of lightweight, foldable camping chairs. They were perfect for relaxing outside the caravan, whether at a campsite or a beach.

Reusable Shopping Bags

Reusable bags were great for groceries and could be folded down to nothing when not in use.

The Packing Method We Used

Before stuffing everything into suitcases, we prepared several piles to help us prioritize. Here’s how we did it:

Absolute Must-Pack

These are the essentials you absolutely need to bring. For us, this included clothes, toiletries, baby items, important documents, and electronics.

Good to Have but Can Purchase Locally

These are items that are nice to have but can be bought in Australia if you find you need them. Think extra toiletries, some specific clothing items or shoes, jewelry, bags, books, snorkel gear, all the doubles and less crucial gear.

Nice to Have but Can Live Without

These are the lowest priority items. If there’s space left in your suitcase, you can pack them, but otherwise, they stay home. This included things like extra books, certain toys, and non-essential gadgets.

This method ensured we packed the most important items first and only added extras if we had the space.

Top Tip: Trust me and do not pack too many cosmetics, makeup, jewelry, warm clothes, underwear, t-shirts, shoes, books and toys, not only you will anyway always just wear your favorites but also you will be tempted to buy some nice new pieces from the land down under. 

Final Thoughts

Packing for a year-long caravan trip around Australia might seem daunting, but it’s all about being smart and selective. Focus on the essentials, avoid unnecessary items, and prioritize multi-purpose gear. Keep your living space tidy and organized, and make the most of your adventure.

Remember, you can always buy things on the road if you find you’ve forgotten something. The key is to start with a well-thought-out plan, pack light, and enjoy the freedom and excitement of your Australian road trip. Happy travels, mates!

Ultimate Packing List for the Family

Here’s our ultimate packing list per gender, designed to keep things simple and efficient:

For Men

– 7-10 T-shirts 

– 2 Dress shirts

– 3-5 Pairs of shorts

– 2-3 Pairs of long pants (sport, chino or jeans)

– 3 Jumpers or sweaters

– 1 Light jacket against wind and rain

– 1 Pair of hiking boots (if hiking is intended), otherwise sneakers

– 1 Pair of walking shoes

– 1 Pair of flip-flops

– Underwear and socks for a week (and a half) – depending on how often you intend to do laundry

-3 pairs of Swimwear

– Pyjamas

– Hat, cap, and sunglasses

– Toiletries (razor, toothbrush, floss, deodorant, etc.)

– Electronics (laptop, charger, phone, camera, watch, cables, adaptors)

– Medicine and first aid items

– Lightweight travel towel

– Shaving or trimming gear

– Optional:

– Thermal underwear set

– Lightweight bathrobe (suitable for spas, caravan park showers, etc.) 

– Jewellery, belts

For Women

– 5-7 T-shirts or tops (ideally some that could be used for sleeping as well)

– 3-7 Dresses or skirts (if you are a dress kind of girl)

– 3 Pairs of shorts

– 3 Pairs of long pants (leggings, sports pants, jeans)

– 3 Jumpers or sweaters

– 1 Light jacket (wind and waterproof)

– 1 Pair of hiking boots (if hiking is intended), otherwise sneakers

– 1 Pair of walking shoes

– 1 Pair of flip-flops or sandals

– 1 Pair of ballerinas or wedges for your dress-up days/nights

– Underwear and socks for a week and a half – depending on how often you intend to make laundry

– Pyjamas

– Swimwear

– Sarong or scarf

– Hat, cap, and sunglasses

– Toiletries (makeup, hairbrush, deodorant, perfume, toothbrush, floss etc.)

– Electronics (laptop, charger, phone, camera, watch, adaptors)

– Medicine and first aid items

– Menstrual cup, disinfecting tablets, pouch or tampons, pads, menstrual panties

– Epilator or razor

– Lightweight travel towel

– Optional:

– Thermal underwear set

– Lightweight bathrobe (suitable for spas, caravan park showers, etc.) 

– Jewellery, hair accessories, belts

For Toddlers

– 5 T-shirts

– 5 Bodysuits/Onesies (short sleeves) 

– 3 Bodysuits/Onesies (long sleeves)

– 5 Pairs of shorts

– 3 Pairs of long pants

– 3-5 Babygrow/Sleepsuit

– 3-5 Rompers (short sleeves)

– 1 Pair of Tights

– Sleeping bag

– 3 Jumpers or sweaters

– 1 Light jacket

– 1-2 Pairs of walking shoes (size up)

– 1-2 Pair of sandals (size up)

– 1 Hooded bath towel

– Socks

– Swimwear (long/short sleeved swimsuit/rashie suit UPF 50+)

– Hat for swimming UPF 50+, cap and sunglasses

– Favorite toys and books

– Feeding gear (collapsible dishes, bottles, cutlery, suction cup, suction dishes, bib)

– Changing gear (changing mat, nappies, wet wipes, cream)

– Toiletries (baby soap, shampoo, oil, ear, cotton buds, nail clipper)

– Medicine and first aid items 

– Blanket and comfort items (plush toys, pacifier)

– Compact stroller (cabin approved)

– Baby food and snacks for the flight 

– Optional:

– 1 Beach poncho

– water shoes

– Bottle warmer

– Nasal aspirator/cleaner

– Baby hiking carrier (if applicable)

– Travel (foldable) potty

– Knee pads – perfect for first walkers

– Swim vest or floaties

General Items

– Travel documents (visa, passport, ID, money, photo)

– Charging station with multiple USB ports 

– Roadside emergency kit

– Basic tools

– Reusable shopping bags

– Sarongs or cover-ups

– Snorkeling gear (optional but fun!)

– Sports gear like rackets or balls

– Drone or Go-pro 

– Camping gear – flashlight, shovel, travel shower, 

– Lightweight camping chairs

– Luggage scale 

– Book or e-reader 

– Laptop

– Beach bag

– Beach towel or blanket

– Portable cooler or bag

– Travel mugs

– Beach shelter/tent

By being selective about what you pack and focusing on essentials, you can streamline your packing process, maximize space in your vehicle, and ensure a more enjoyable and stress-free road trip experience.

Take a look at our Australia Travel Guide page for all the inspiration and information you need to kickstart your travels and hit the road more frequently!