If you choose Australia as your study abroad destination, you can expect incredible outdoor adventures, exciting metropolitan cities, great student life, and a world-class education. Whether you have decided to study at the University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney, the University of Queensland, or any of Australia’s famed universities, you will surely enjoy your time as a student in the Land Down Under.
As Australia’s regions vary greatly in terms of climate and lifestyle, you may be asking yourself what to pack when studying abroad in Australia. Maybe you will be on the Gold Coast lying by the beach, or maybe you will be in Sydney enjoying classy evenings at the Sydney Opera House. No matter where you have chosen to study in Australia, this comprehensive packing guide will help you prepare for your semester abroad.
What is the climate like in Australia?
Learn all that you need to pack when studying abroad in Australia!
The unique climate of Australia is one of the most important things to know before you study abroad there. Australia experiences all four seasons, but they may differ from what you are used to at home. Summer lasts from December to February, autumn lasts from March to May, winter lasts from June to August, and spring lasts from September to November.
Australia is known for a warm and pleasant climate, but the weather will depend on where in the country you are studying. Western Australia has a hot and dry climate with mild winters, while the East Coast also experiences mild weather all year round. Northern Australia has a wet season between November and April, with frequent storms and rain. Finally, the outback has a desert climate and is often hot and humid. If you want to read more about the climate in different parts of Australia. Knowing the climate in your region will help you decide what to pack for study abroad in Australia.
6 Things to Pack for Study Abroad in Australia
Regardless of where and when you choose to study in Australia, there are a few items that every student must remember. With this packing list, you can guarantee that you will be prepared for going abroad. Here’s what to pack when studying abroad in Australia:
1. Passport
One of the most important things to pack for Australia is your passport.
Don’t forget your passport when packing for Australia! Make sure that it will not expire before the end of your semester so you don’t have any issues at the border. While you will need your passport for traveling, a foreign driver’s license is also a valid form of ID once you get to Australia.
2. Visa
Australia requires that foreigners obtain a student visa to study at one of their universities. This visa will allow you to study full-time and engage in paid work during your time abroad. Make sure to apply for your visa well before the beginning of your course. To learn more about student visa requirements, visit Australia’s Home Affairs website.
3. Health insurance
Foreign students in Australia must also obtain Overseas Student Health Cover, covering basic medical care. Some popular plans include Allianz Care Australia, CBHS International Health, and NIB OSHC. You can also check out GoAbroad’s recommended travel insurance options.
4. Adaptor
Australia uses the plug, ‘TYPE I,’ which is different from other parts of the world. During your time abroad, you will no doubt be using electronics to complete school work and talk to friends and family back home. Make sure to bring an adaptor so that you can charge all of your devices!
5. Hiking boots
You’ll need to bring a great pair of hiking boots while studying abroad in Australia.
Depending on where your university is located, you may be able to explore Australia’s incredible hiking trails. Some famous hikes include the Overland Track, Kosciuszko Walk, Larapinta Trail, and Three Capes Track. Make sure to bring hiking boots so that you’re well-prepared!
6. Bathing suits
Australia is famous for its gorgeous beaches, from Gold Coast to Bondi Beach to Byron Bay. If you’re lucky enough to be studying on one of Australia’s coasts, make sure to throw a few bathing suits in your suitcase. Maybe you’ll even pick up surfing during your stint abroad!
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Seasonal Packing Lists for Study Abroad in Australia
Your Australia packing list will largely depend on what time of year you decide to study abroad. With these packing lists, you will know exactly what you need to bring for the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
Fall semester packing list
Australia’s fall semester usually begins in February and coincides with the autumn season. As temperatures start to cool down during this time, here are a few things to pack to prepare for the fall weather:
- Light jacket: While many parts of Australia will still be warm when you arrive in the fall, you will want to have a light jacket to prepare for the change in seasons. You will especially want to have a warm coat for cool autumn evenings.
- Layers: Layers are key to staying comfortable in the autumn weather. The climate can vary greatly depending on the time of day and region of Australia, so layers will help you prepare for all kinds of weather.
- Jumpers (sweaters): Pack some of your comfiest jumpers from home for colder fall days. These will especially come in handy toward the end of the semester when winter is on the horizon!
Spring semester packing list
Be prepared for all sorts of weather by bringing an array of versatile and smart pieces of clothing.
If you go to Australia for their second semester, you will experience the end of winter and the beginning of spring. This is what to pack to prepare for both seasons:
- Winter coat: While Australia is often not considered a cold country, winter temperatures can get very low. It even snows in some parts of Australia. Pack your winter coat to make sure you’re ready for the winter season and avoid having to buy one while you’re overseas.
- Warm accessories: Bringing hats, scarves, gloves, and other accessories from home will help you stay warm during winter in Australia.
- Flip flops: The sun will start coming out again at the end of your semester in Australia. Be sure to bring flip-flops to hit the beach before heading back home!
Summer semester packing list
If you are journeying to Australia for the summer semester, you can enjoy the country’s warmest season. Here are a few essential items to prepare you for the summer heat:
- Light clothing: While many areas in Australia have mild weather, summer is the hottest time of the year. Bring light, loose clothing to ensure that you are prepared for hot summer days.
- Sun protection: During the summer, you will want to ensure you stay safe in the sun. The UV index in Australia can often be extreme, so you will definitely want extra protection. Pack a couple of hats, sun cream, sunglasses, and light long-sleeve tops.
- Umbrella: During summer, certain parts of Australia can experience heavy rains. Bring an umbrella to prepare for potential rain storms!
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Things you can buy in Australia
Get smart about what you buy while studying abroad in Australia instead of packing.
You don’t need to pack your bag with the following essentials, because they are sure to be widely available no matter where you choose to study in Australia:
- Toiletries: Some of the most popular pharmacies in Australia include Chemist Warehouse, Priceline Pharmacy, and TerryWhite Chemmart. You will be able to find an abundance of toiletries in Australia, so leave those liquids at home!
- Insect repellent: Australia has earned a reputation for its large insect population. You will be able to find insect repellent once you’re there to protect yourself from getting bitten.
- Snacks: Studying in Australia is a great opportunity to sample the country’s snack offerings. Some national favorites include Vegemite, Tim Tams, and Cheezels.
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Don’t wait until the last minute to pack for study abroad in Australia!
With the right packing list and sufficient preparation, your semester in Australia will be a breeze. As you may be very far from home, ensuring you have everything you need is key to relieving the stress of going abroad. Now that you know what to bring when studying abroad in Australia and what you can buy there, you are ready to head to the Land Down Under!
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