Written by the Travel Gear team. Last updated: May 2026.
Packing is an art form — and like any art form, it gets easier with practice and the right tools. This checklist has been built specifically for Australian travellers, covering everything from your passport to your packing cubes. Save it, print it, or bookmark it before every trip.
Documents & Money
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date)
- Visa or entry permits (check requirements for every country)
- Travel insurance documents (printed and digital copy)
- Flight and accommodation confirmations
- International driving permit (if hiring a car)
- Emergency contact list (separate from your phone)
- Local currency for arrival (ATMs aren't always available)
- Credit/debit cards with no international transaction fees
Luggage & Bags
- Carry-on cabin bag (check airline size limits)
- Checked luggage (if needed)
- Day backpack for sightseeing
- Luggage tags with contact details
- TSA-approved travel lock
Packing Organisation
- Packing cubes (game-changer for organised packing)
- Toiletry bag (TSA-friendly, leak-proof)
- Compression bags for bulky items
- Laundry bag for dirty clothes
- Shoe bags
Electronics & Power
- International travel adapter (check destination socket type)
- Portable power bank (check airline restrictions on capacity)
- Phone charger and cables
- Laptop and charger (if needed)
- Camera and memory cards
Travel Security
- RFID-blocking money belt or neck wallet
- RFID-blocking wallet
- Luggage locks (TSA-approved for checked bags)
- Photocopies of passport and important documents
- Digital copies stored in cloud storage
Clothing (Adjust for Destination & Duration)
- Underwear (1 per day + 2 extra)
- Socks (1 per day + 2 extra)
- T-shirts / tops (3–5, mix and match)
- Pants / shorts (2–3)
- Smart outfit for restaurants / events
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light jacket or layers (planes are cold)
Toiletries (100ml Rule for Carry-On)
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo and conditioner (travel size)
- Sunscreen (essential for Aussies abroad)
- Insect repellent (for tropical destinations)
- Hand sanitiser
- Prescription medications (with documentation)
- Basic first aid kit
In-Flight Comfort
- Travel neck pillow
- Eye mask
- Earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones
- Reusable water bottle (fill after security)
- Snacks for the flight
- Jet lag supplement (for long-haul flights)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many outfits should I pack for a 2-week trip?
Aim for 5–7 outfits that mix and match, plus a smart outfit for nicer occasions. Plan to do laundry once during a 2-week trip rather than packing for every day.
What can't I take in carry-on luggage on Australian flights?
Liquids over 100ml, sharp objects, and lithium batteries over 100Wh are restricted in carry-on. Power banks must go in carry-on (not checked luggage). Always check CASA and your airline's current guidelines.
Should I use packing cubes?
Yes — packing cubes are one of the most useful travel accessories you can buy. They compress your clothes, keep categories organised, and make unpacking at your destination instant.
For more on packing efficiently, see our carry-on only travel guide and our long-haul flight essentials checklist.