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My assumption aboutwhat to wear inAustralia couldn’t have been further from the truth. It is no where nearas laid back and casual as I thought it would be. Well, not everywhere.
Yes, Byron Bay and Surfer’s Paradise fit this stereotype – but Sydney? No way. Packing for Sydney is different than packing for other Australian cities. The same goes for The Outback and The Northern Territory.
Lucky for you we’ve got heaps of tips after living here! Find out what to pack for Australia year round!
Written By: Kelly Ella Maz and LCHaughey
Backpackers are so prevalent in Australia that as a local, you can almost sniff them out. Except you don’t need to–their clothes tend to give them away.So, what do you wear when you want toblend in with the locals?That’s what we’re going to explore in this guide.
Australia is quite obviously a huge country and so, the climate is varied. On the same day that people are shivering on the streets of Melbourne, the residents of Far North Queensland will be frolicking at the beach.
J.Crew Tee | Leather Paperbag Shorts
What to Wear inAustralia: Sydney
Sydney has some of the best weather in the world, with hot summers and mild winters. Locals and travelers alike flock to the city’s famous beaches in the warmer months. In the winter, you can get away with wearing jeans and a t-shirt, with a light coat in the cool of the night.
Women in Sydney pride themselves on being well-dressed and healthy.In the early morning hours and late afternoon you’ll see Sydneysiders everywhere, jogging through the streets and sipping on green smoothies.
Planning to run when you travel? This running fanatic shares her go-to running clothesto jogon the go!
If you’re traveling to Syd in the warmer months, pack a few decent pairs of shorts, some nice tops, and a goodpair of sandals for the day. And bring your hottest heels if you’re planning a night out.
I made the mistake of wearing flat sandals out for drinks one night by the Sydney Harbor. I felt very out of place when I realized I was the only woman in flat shoes in a sea of model-like women all wearing designer heels.
Public transportation is excellent in Sydney, so don’t worry about walking far in the city! Pull out your best stilettos for a night out in Sydney and don’t underestimate style when planning what to wear in Australia.
You’ll get a lot of wear out of a great pair of shorts – especially in the hot summer months.
Just remember what I said about dressing up in Sydney! Opt for a pair of dressy shorts with wedges when planning what to wear in Australia and leave the denim cut offs and rubber flip flops at home if you’re traveling in the city. The heat gets pretty intense here, so I’d pick a lightweight fabric for your shorts, and a palecolor – like white or beige.
Tip:The key to packing light is to create a travel capsule wardrobe which can easily fit into a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes!
Biker Leather Jacket | J.Crew Tee
Swap out most of the shorts for jeans or leggings in winter (I’d keep at least one pair on hand for the odd warm day), paired with some nice blouses or t-shirts and cardigans.
Ankle boots are always in fashion, as are short-skirted dresses with long sleeves. Bring a nice party dress and high heels for nights out on the town.
Heading to the spring races in Sydney?A fascinator is an absolute must!
In Sydney, who wears the best hair accessory is a bigger deal than which horse wins the race. Horse racing events are definitely more about the fashion than the horses – with women wearing gloves, hats and color-matching shoes with their designer dresses.
Of course, the city beaches are pretty spectacular, so don’t forget your bikini.
Suits from Amazon Swimwear are all the rage here, but any classic bikini with a few luxe touches will fit in perfectly. Accessorize your bikini with a matching Turkish towel – which are uber popular at hot-spots like Bondi Beach and Manly Beach.
Biker Leather Jacket | Leith Tank Dress
Just because Sydney has tons of amazing beaches doesn’t mean the dress code is “beach casual”.
I was shocked to discover the residents of Sydney tend to dress up more than other cities I’ve been to. Leave the casual clothes at home and put your best foot forward in high quality, fashionable clothes to fit in here. You can never be overdressed in Sydney – even when I think I’ll be overdressed I usually arrive to party feeling underdressed.
One thing to keep in mind is that it rains an awful lot in Sydney, in contrast to the popular belief of it being a constantly sun-soaked city. Be sure to pack an umbrella or light raincoat and a waterproof pair of shoes like these stylish leather boots.
It’s not uncommon to have a beautiful hot morning only to have hurricane-like rain come from no where around 5pm. Enjoy your sunny mornings at the beach, but throw a travel umbrella in your purse so you’re never caught off guard!
Read these tips on what to wear on a rainy day!
Tippi Sweater | Spanx Moto Leggings
What to Wear inAustralia: Melbourne
Melbourne is arguably the fashion capital of Australia, with the city’s inhabitants taking the content of their wardrobe very seriously.Summer wear in Melbourne is quite similar to that of Sydney’s–it’s in the winter months that the city really comes into its own.
Shop Sizes XS-4X:J.Jill
In the shoulder seasons in particular, Melbourne can experience a range of weather, with temperatures changing in a matter of hours. The day can start off warm and sunny with a cold front hitting in the early afternoon before the city gets drenched in a deluge of rain. It’s best to be prepared for anything and everything.
Check out the easy packing solution for trips with both cold and hot climates!
The trick to surviving Melbourne’s temperamental temperatures is layering. Black is a popular color, with many women opting for skinny jeans or leggings.
Oversized sweaters with simple white linen shirts are popular in the winter, teamed with a brightly colored beanie. A scarf will be your best friend–you can keep it in your bag, whipping it out when the weather turns cool.
Read these tips on how to avoid boring all-black outfitswhen you travel!
Timberland Sutherlin Bay Mid Back Zip Boot
It might seem tempting to wear canvas shoes, but they won’t be able to cope with the sudden changes in weather. I recommend a sturdy pair of boots (both my Timberlands and Doc Martens serve me well) or a pair of black or brown leather boots. Try to sway away from suede–it’ll get soaked within seconds.
Find out why leather boots are some of the best shoes for travel!
Columbia Women’s Pardon My Trench Rain Jacket
You’ll want a coat that is cute, practical, and goes with everything. I alternate between my black leather jacket and black wool coat, because once again, black goes with everything, darling
On a rainy day, I wear my bright yellow 66°North raincoat. I figure that something of Icelandic design can probably withstand Melbourne’s weather and then some!
Take a look at the most popular waterproof jackets for travel!
Michael Stars Drape Top | Denim Shorts (similar)
What to Wear inAustralia: The Northern Territory
The Top End, also known as the Northern Territory, has what is probably the oddest weather of the entire country.
Towns like the capital of Darwin have only two seasons, known as the “Wet” and the “Dry”. The Dry is far more preferable and takes place in the winter months, from around May to September. Temperatures are usually around 70-89°F (21-32°C), which isquite similar to summer temperatures elsewhere in the country.
In the summer, or the Wet–things get tropical. The Top End is ravaged by thunderstorms (and the odd cyclone). Humidity is high. You’ll start sweating the second you step outside.
Aussies who call this region home live in shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and flip-flops (we call them “thongs”). Your best bet will be to avoid clothes with synthetic materials; stick to cotton.
Traveling to a hot weather destination? Take a look at the best flip-flops and sandals our readers rave about!
If you’re visiting during the Wet (which is gorgeous, apart from the humidity) bring a change of clothes. You’ll find you’ll sweat through your t-shirt before you know it!
Eddie Bauer Charly Jacket | Ugg Wilde Boots
What to Wear inAustralia: Tasmania
Tasmania’s climate is pretty close to that of Europe’s. Summer is mild and the winters are chilly. Snow is not uncommon in the cooler months.
Calvin Klein Chevron Packable Coat
I would pack similar clothes to that of Melbourne, with an emphasis on layering up, again. Bring a sturdy jacket, no matter which time of the year you choose to visit. In the winter, packALLyour winter woolens!!
Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:
- Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
- How to Pack for Cold Weather
- How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
- The Best Travel Shoes for Winter
Icebreaker Oasis Longsleeve Crew
Start with a base layer of thermals (merino wool is warm and dry) and wearjeans or leggings and a long-sleeve t-shirt over the top. Consider packinga fleece and jacket, too. Accessorize with a beanie, gloves, and a warm scarf.
Enhance your basics with color and texture using these winter accessoriesand find out why thermals are a must for traveling light (and staying warm) in winter!
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot
Don’t forget to pack a sturdy pair of hiking boots, as Tasmania has some of nicest hikes in the country, patronized by travelers and locals alike.
Find out how to choose hiking boots and the top styles TFG readers voted as their favorites!
What to Wear inAustralia: The Outback
May through September is winter in Australia, and the prime time for visiting any of the sights in the Australian outback. The temperatures are quite nice during the day and tend to plummet at night. I wouldn’t advise visiting the outback during the summer months, unless you’rea big fan of searing heat, humidity, and flies.
The dead center of Australia is also known as the “Red Centre”. It’s home to two of the most famous sights of the country: Kata Tjuta (or “The Olgas”) and Uluru. Visitors to this region tend to stay on site in a small town known as Yulara, which was built for access to Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. It features hotels at a range of different prices, as well as a hostel and a campsite.
During the day
Temperatures during the day in the Red Centre range around the high 60°s to low 70°s F(low 20°s C).
For this region, I recommend bringingseveral t-shirts, a long-sleeve shirt, leggings, a pair of jeans for the evening, and two pairs of shorts (one for exercise and one denim) in case the weather warms up in the middle of the day. A light sweatshirt might be needed during the day, too.
If you’re staying at a hotel in the nearby town of Yulara, bring your swimsuit in case you fancy a dip in the pool.
Here are thebest one-piece swimsuitsof the season!
When I did the Uluru Base Walk, I wore workout clothes–my normal joggers with Teeki leggings, which are made out of recycled plastic water bottles. (This pairare certainly appropriate for a desert climate).
Dr. Martens Women’s Flora Leather Chelsea Boot
Bring a pair of boots with you. They don’t need to be hiking boots, as most of the walks around Kata Tjuta National Park are fairly tame. I brought my Doc Martens and was perfectly happy in them, day or night. I paired them with thick socks when the day cooled.
These are the best waterproof leather boots recommended by our readers!
If you have a pair of adventure sandals pack them, too.They come in very handy.
Occasionally water adventures require special shoes. Find out which water shoes to wearfor which activities!
During the evening
If you’re camping in the outback, you’ll be roughing it, but there are many opportunities to indulge in a little luxury here and there. This is mostly in the form of delicious dinners, whereyou may want to dress up a bit more.
In this instance, I’d wear jeans along with a nice shirt or blouse. It doesn’t have to be too fancy–this is the outback, after all.
Don’t forget to bring a coat. It doesn’t have to be of Nordic weather proportions, just ensure it will provide you with a little extra warmth on those cold summer nights.
From sporty to bold and colorful, find the most stylish and practical down jacketfor your cold weather travels!
Nighttime
Duofold Mid Weight Wicking Thermal Shirt
It may be surprising to hear that the outback can get quite cold at night. Ridiculously so–around 37°F / 5°C or lower once the sun has gone down!
The amount of clothing you bring shouldcorrelate with the type of accommodation you choose. All the hotels in Yulara are heated, with extra blankets available for thosewho like to snuggle up under their duvet. Bring along your winter pajamas (mine are a mixture of flannelette and thermals) and a pair of bed socks, just in case.
If you’re camping, I thoroughly recommend bringing not only a good pair of thermals (merino wool is the best fabric) and a fleece but your coziest sweatpants, too. You can wear them around the campsite and they’ll double up as pajamas at night.
Thermals are the secret to packing light! Here are our top picks for thermal underwear!
Don’t forget to pack a pair of gloves and a beanie. You’ll end up using them, I promise you–particularly during those crisp, early mornings!
Use Packing Cubes to Organize Clothing
Packing cubeswill change the way you travel. You can use them for your personal items and keep your belongings organized for your journey. We’ve designed our own brand of slim cubes with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything, including your jacket!
We put together afive-part YouTube seriesshowing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you usethisspecific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!
General Australia Travel Essentials
- A wide-brimmed hat. The Australian sun is particularly intense, especiallyin the desert regions.
- Sunscreen. No matter the time of the year, be sure to pack at least SPF 30+ sunscreen for your face and slather it onto the rest of your person if you tend to burn easily.
- Aloe vera gel.If you tend to burn, pack an“after sun” lotionto cool affectedskin.
- Skinmoisturizer.Due to the harshness of the daytime sun and cold nights, you may find that your skin gets quite dry.
- Panty liners or small packs of tissue.If you’re planning on hiking, you might want to bring alongthese items. These pantylinerscan be reused after washing.
- Insect repellent.Insects aren’t as prevalentduring the winter months, but bring along somerepellentjust in case you’re bothered by flies or other creepy crawlies during your outback adventure. Bushman’s is the best brand available in Australia.
- A reusable water bottle. This will come in handy. You can fill it up at your hotel and take it with you on hikes and day trips.
- Camera. It should go without saying! Empty your memory cards and bring additional batteries. This is an extremely photogenic corner of the world and you’ll want to start snapping away the moment youarrive.
The most important packing tip is to bring and use sunscreen year round. I’m talking SPF 60+ here.
UV levels hereare significantly higher than other areas of the world thanks to a hole in the ozone layer directly above the country. I can tell you that as a girl who previously lived in Spain and rarely wore sunscreen, the sun here is a killer. 20 minutes outside without sunscreen and I’m red as lobster. Pack your sunscreen!
If you’re planning on going to the beach (which I bet you are) use an organic sunscreento avoid spreading toxins into the ocean. It wouldn’t hurt to use a facial BB cream withsome SPF, too.
Read these after-sun skincare tips to help you rejuvenate dull, dry skin!
Ray-ban55mm Polarized Sunglasses
Don’t forget your sunglasses either (they’re known as sunnies in Australia) and a sun hat!
Insect repellent will also serve you well, particularly in the summer months. Look for products that contain DEET –this is one of my favorites!
What are the best accommodations in Australia?
We loveAirbnb for accommodation in Australia. Sign up herefor a free $40 credit!
I prefer to book “the entire home” instead of opting for shared accommodation on Airbnb. Aside from safety, I also like to feel like I’m living in the destination. It’s a small taste of local life plus you get more amenities than you would at a hotel such as a kitchen and washing machine.
Read theseAirbnb tipsfor more info!
If you prefer the convenience and comfort of a hotel room, I like using bothAgoda.comandHotels.com. Tip: Hotels.com gives you a free night for every ten nights you book!
For hostels, we recommendHostelworldandHostelbookers. Always read the reviews before booking to get the best idea if the hostel is right for you. Some are quiet and family friendly while others are known for their party atmosphere.
Not sure about staying at a hostel?Read this.
What are your best tips for what to wear in Australia? Comment below!
For more Australia packing lists:
- What to Wear when Backpacking Australia
- Road Trip Australia Travel Tips
- Visiting the Great Barrier Reef? Here’s What to Bring
- What to Pack for Gold Coast and Brisbane
Suggested travel resources:
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Author Bio: Kelly Ella Maz is a writer and full-time traveller. Originally from Canada, she left her home to chase summer around the globe. She’s currently living in Sydney, Australia where she spends her days exploring new cafes and hidden beaches. You can follow her travels at www.kellyellamaz.com.
Author Bio: LC has lived in Australia, Qatar, and the UK. Her interests include long road trips, bonfires, beach bumming, horse riding, bird watching, and dog cuddling. You can follow her adventures on her blog or in real-time on Facebook.
Laura Verbekeon September 6, 2022 at 8:45 am
I discovered your website and haven’t stopped reading since 2014 when I was preparing for my first trip to Australia. Clearly, I’m a huge fan. Now, I’m visiting different Aussie cities during their Spring season. I’m still stuck on Melbourne clothes for Spring and a trip along the Great Ocean Road. Any suggestions?
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Ariadneon September 6, 2022 at 8:22 pm
They say Melbourne has four seasons in a day. Black is the locals go-to colour and the vibe is more European than Sydney – so think tailored. Layering is the key. Start with a packable rain jacket, light weight blazer, dressy jeans, a pretty dress that doubles with the blazer. Melbourne cup is a big deal, there are events nationwide. Dress to impress, including a fascinator.
The Great ocean road is goegeous, but very windy in spring. Jeans, T-shirts, trainers, warm hoodie, packable rain jacket will see you through. You might be lucky and get a swim in late spring, but don’t pack just shorts, or you will regret it.Reply
Layna Schmitton August 23, 2022 at 2:27 pm
You are so right! The climates around Australia very so much. We are headed to Tasmania this Christmas and it’s all about layering. Trying to find a good but not bulky jacket to bring (even though it will be summer) the weather can be quite changeable there.
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Sandraon December 8, 2019 at 2:17 pm
Hi
I was reading your blog and I wanted to correct you. There is no hole in the ozone layer above Australia. It has to do with the angle of the sun in relation to the earth as it orbits. In summer, Australia gets a lot of direct sunlight with long days and therefore it tends to be hot and you can get sunburned. Australians avoid being out in the sun without a hat, shirt, sunglasses and sunscreen during the middle of the day.
BTW love your blog. I use it every time I travel to the northern hemisphere in our summer, your winter. It’s had to pack when winter here in Brisbane ranges from 7 to 21 deg C, and your going to somewhere where it actually gets cold.Reply
Alexon December 9, 2019 at 5:05 am
Hi Sandra, thank you taking the time to share this with us and for your helpful advice. We always love hearing from a local ? So happy to hear you love the blog and that we have been able to help you with your packing! ❤️? Happy travels!!
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Komalon January 23, 2019 at 8:19 am
What types of tops are suitable for visiting to melbourne
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Alexon January 24, 2019 at 12:48 am
Hi Komal, it would depend on what time of the year you were traveling? In the fall months the temperature can change quickly so you might need a warmer top which you could layer for when it got chiller. In the winter are white linen shirt would work well which you could layer with a sweater. In the summer you could opt for a lightweight shirt or t-shirt. Hope this helps answer your question 🙂
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Breezyon December 11, 2017 at 2:39 am
Great blog! Can you tell me what to wear in Southern Australia from summer to autumn (Feb to March)?
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Aliceon October 17, 2017 at 12:39 am
Great information shared and help me in my trip for Australia.
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alexon October 19, 2017 at 10:23 am
Thanks Alice!
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Alexiaon October 2, 2017 at 4:20 pm
Sydney used to be well dressed, 20 years ago. Not any more. Generally people don’t make much effort and anything and everything seems to be ok. A small number of women dress beautifully, most men do not. A tiny number of suburbs are stylish and are full of cafes and restaurants, the majority of Sydney is not like this. A few suburbs have beaches, most do not. Do not worry about how you dress for this city. As a Sydneysider it is really sad that style is virtually nonexistent. Melbourne style is world class and stylish dressing is everywhere.
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Alexison October 2, 2017 at 4:33 pm
Sydney public transport is very erratic. Some inner city suburbs have excellent transport, the rest of Sydney is extremely lacking. Traveling by car is slow like being in a moving carpark, and parking is very expensive.
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alexon October 3, 2017 at 8:51 am
Thanks for the feedback Alexia! The authors of the article and I were impressed with the style on our trips but it’s interesting to know that it was once even more well dressed 🙂
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Kate - Travel for Differenceon August 6, 2017 at 7:27 pm
It’s so funny to see foreigners try and pack for Australia – but you’re so spot on! It’s really not as laid back as so many people think (and no there aren’t any koalas wandering around the streets), a lot of the major cities are much fancier than what is often assumed. I think you’ve really hit the nail on the head X
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alexon August 9, 2017 at 4:43 pm
Awesome Kate thank you for you feedback!
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Jennifer Bradleyon August 3, 2017 at 10:18 pm
Just to add, you don’t need to pack loads of sunscreen or insect repellent – you can easily find both in shops from supermarkets to chemists. You’ll need the sunscreen all year round (higher SPF in summer), but insect only in summer. And although I live in Australia’s coldest city, I’ve never worn a down jacket anywhere, except to go skiing. So research place, as well as weather for each month – it varies. We just got back to Canberra after a month away and the weather ranged from -6’C to 35’C during that time – all in Australia.
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alexon August 4, 2017 at 6:39 am
Thanks for the feedback Jennifer!
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Michelle B.on June 28, 2019 at 1:12 am
We are coming August 4th to Australia & New Zealand to do all the touristy things including bungee & snowskiing in New Zealand. HELP! I need to dress my 17- year old daughter & 19-year old son, husband & myself for 17-20 days. I’m certain that tourist bunny jumping and other things dictate different wardrobes.
Possibly jeans will work daily???Reply
Alexon July 1, 2019 at 1:01 pm
Hi Michelle, I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share. I am sorry that I could not have been of more help. Hope you have an awesome trip! ?
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Grace Milleron May 3, 2017 at 3:26 am
Nice blog post about what to wear in Australia. The dresses and accessories are good enough for surfing on the beach.
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alexon May 9, 2017 at 4:29 am
Thanks Grace!
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alexon May 2, 2017 at 2:50 am
Thanks Catherine!
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Sharonon August 13, 2016 at 7:31 am
This will come in very handy. Thx
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Travel Fashion Girlon August 15, 2016 at 5:11 am
You’re welcome Sharon 🙂
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Catherineon January 17, 2015 at 3:18 pm
As a Sydneysider and TFG fan, I have to admit I disagree with some of the points made here. Sydney is pretty casual, and during summer there is a reason for that – it is simply too hot to overdress or dress up too much, with days and sometimes weeks consistently in the 85 degree Fahrenheit region, or about 30 degrees Celsius. Thongs or flip flops, particularly Havianas, are very popular, completely acceptable, and on some hot days at my workplace, the majority of people you see will be wearing thongs because your feet expand, closed in shoes are uncomfortable and, unlike other warm cities like Singapore or Bangkok, Sydney is an outdoor city so you are not constantly moving from one air-conditioned space to another. As for heels at night – this might be the case on a Saturday night, but for the most part flat shoes are absolutely fine. Many of us go from work to a bar or restaurant without having the opportunity to go home and change, so flat footwear is fine and will take you on your commute home.
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Jennifer Bradleyon January 18, 2015 at 11:25 pm
I agree – we’re just back from a week in Sydney, where I did a lot of people watching. If you go to smart parties, maybe very high heels and fancy dresses are the go, but in summer, it’s usually too hot to get dressed up and hardly anybody does, unless they’re going to something high class. I saw shorts galore, (and some people shouldn’t have), short and long skirts, skimpy tops, kaftans, classy casual (especially at the opera house and galleries, although even at the opera house I saw shorts and thongs[flip/flops]) – and heels if they existed, were low or wedges. The dressiest garments I saw were sundresses.
Don’t ever forget the sunscreen – whatever the season – and a good sunhat helps. We did see some rain, but given the heat, it was very welcome.
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Brooke Vlasichon January 7, 2015 at 1:06 pm
As a lover of millinery, I am thrilled to see fascinators! I appreciate your knowledge about Sydney’s affinity for stylish clothes and the random downpours of rain since I hadn’t heard about those aspects yet. Thanks for a great informative post!
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alexon January 9, 2015 at 6:25 am
Thanks Brooke! I’m glad Kelly Ella Maz was nice enough to share her insightful tips!
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