What to pack for an outback trip in Australia
Get prepared so you don’t get caught out in the Australian Outback
One of the most common predicaments we as travellers face is making sure we pack everything we need for our trip!
It’s important not to pack too heavy but it’s also important not to pack too light and forget essential things that will make your trip that much better and/or comfortable!
Below in no particular order are the items you should pack for your Australian outback trip. We recommend a day bag to keep with you at all times and a big bag for your clothing and things you’ll only need access to at night.
Day Bag
Torch
Essential for wandering around the campgrounds at night especially when nature calls at 3am and you need to find your way to the bathroom.
Sunscreen
This is an absolute ESSENTIAL! The Australian sun is very harsh especially to those with skin that is not used to it. Make sure you pack SPF30+ at the very least.
Hat
A good wide brimmed hat is one of the best ways to protect your face, ears and neck from the harsh Australian Sun.
Insect Repellent
Another essential, make sure the active ingredient is DEET as this will keep the nasty mosquitoes and Sand flies away. Rid and Aerogard are the most popular brands.
2 litre Water Bottle
It’s important to stay hydrated in the outback so we recommend having at least 2 litres of water on you at all times.
Camera/Phone
Of course you need a way to capture those magical travel memories to show your friends.
Optional
Protective Fly net for your face.
You won’t be winning any fashion awards but everyone will be jealous of you not having to spend all day swatting flies off your face like they are!
Main Bag
Clothing
Most people think “I’m going to the desert, it’s going to be hot! No need for any warm clothing!”. This can be true at certain times of the year. If you’re heading through the Red Centre of Australia During Summer (December to March) it can reach Temperatures of 45 Degrees Celsius and higher during the day and drop to about 20 degrees during the night.
During winter however, the Temperature can be a comfortable 20 to 25 degrees during the day but drop to a freezing 0 degrees or colder! If travelling during this time it’s important to pack shirts and shorts for the day and long pants and jumpers and other warm clothing for night time while sleeping under the stars in your swag!
Of course, it’s always important to make sure you pack enough underwear!
Sunscreen This is an absolute ESSENTIAL! The Australian sun is very harsh especially to those with skin that is not used to it. Make sure you pack SPF30+ at the very least.
Toiletries
This is a no brainer, Toothbrush, floss, deodorant, soap and all the other essentials for keeping your body clean. It may be an idea to bring a roll of toilet paper on the off chance you come across an outback toilet that has failed to be restocked!
Towel
Because hey, no one wants to watch you drip drying at camp.
Shoes
For most of the hikes through the outback you can get away with a good pair of Runners. For upmost comfort we recommend a good pair of hiking boots. These are better for your feet and provide more grip when walking over uneven terrain.
Swimmers
It can be super-hot, when the opportunity for a swim arises go for it!
Optional
Pillow
On your tour of the Outback you’ll be sleeping in a Swag which is a roll out Bag with a mattress and Pillow inside. There are people that like to bring along their own more comfortable Pillow and people that like to sleep on top of some of their clothing for added comfort.
Sleeping Bag
Essential if self driving, optional if on tour as you are able to hire a sleeping bag.
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