6 Packing
Australian students wear more or less what American students wear on campus; however, they tend to dress nicer when going out and attending class. It is uncommon to wear sweatpants to class. PACK LIGHT and bring what is most comfortable. Try using vacuum bags to condense clothing.
Pack the following:
- rain gear (poncho, waterproof shoes, umbrella)
- warm sweaters and windbreaker (it does get cool!)
- hiking boots
- swimwear
- sunglasses
- hat to protect you from the sun
- heavy coat (spring semester)
- sun block (expensive in Australia!) – take note of sunblock or cosmetics that are environmentally safe, especially if you plan to swim)
- towel, sheets, and toiletries (see note below)
- phone
- pictures of your friends and family or other things to decorate your room
- cosmetics (Items like makeup, gels and hair products can be very expensive in Australia. Research prices for the items that you use and pack extra or budget
- accordingly.)
- adapter plugs and power converter
- Print/save the following:
- Academic Advising Plan
- Confirmation of Enrollment
- E-visa
Electronic devices
You can buy converters and adapters while in Australia, but most U.S. electronics stores (Best Buy, Target) will sell international power adapters that can be used in multiple countries for a low price.
Unless your electronic devices (such as hair dryers, hair straighteners/curling irons, electric shavers, speakers, etc.) are explicitly 110/220 compatible, they are likely to break using Australia power. You can generally purchase these devices at low prices once you have arrived in Australia.
Clothing
Australia’s weather can vary greatly and it is important to pack the right clothes. You should:
- Research the average temperature for the location and the months you will be abroad
- Contact a returnee for advice on what to pack
- Check to see if the university you are attending offers a travel packing list
- Keep in mind that Australia uses the metric system so temperatures are in Celsius
Additional notes from former participants
- Towels, sheets, and toiletries are easy to purchase after you arrive by taking the bus to the mall. Prices can vary widely, but these can be inexpensive in stores like K-Mart, which is big in Australia. If you have room in your suitcase, some returnees recommend bringing these items. After a 24-hour flight, you might not want to go shopping for a bath towel!
- If you stay at a residential college, there might be a formal event. To save room in your suitcase, consider borrowing formal wear from a friend or purchasing locally.