Packing Checklist For Sydney
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Photo by Carlos Derecichei on Unsplash
Sydney’s climate is temperate, with warm summers, crisp winters and unpredictable rain. Think: beach days, windy ferries, chilly lecture halls and lots of walking.
Clothing
Summer Wear
Breathable tops, shorts, dresses and linen pieces.
Layering Options
Sydney evenings cool down fast. Pack hoodies, light knits and flannels for layering.
Winterwear
A proper medium-weight coat (Sydney gets colder than Brisbane).
Long-sleeve tops, sweaters and jeans.
Rain Gear
Rain is Sydney can get chaotic. Don't forget a compact umbrella and a waterproof jacket.
Footwear
Everyday sneakers for walking, sandals, flip-flops and maybe a spare pair of nicer shoes.
Swimwear
Beaches, coastal walks, uni pools - you’ll use it for sure!
Gadgets & Tech
Laptop/Tablet
Essential for your studies and entertainment.
Smartphone & Charger
This is a given! Your entire life is probably on your phone.
Portable Power Bank
For long campus days or when you're out and about.
Universal Adapter
Your chargers from home may not fit Australia's Type I plug!
Headphones/Earbuds
Great for focusing in study spaces - best if they're noise-cancelling as well!
External Hard Drive
Backup important files, documents and large sized projects.
Multi Port Adapter
Some nights you need to charge your phone, laptop, portable power bank and portable fan all at the same time.
Important Documents
Passport & Student Visa
Make sure they're valid and within the required expiry date. Have multiple digital and hard photocopies just in case!
University Acceptance Letter & Enrolment Papers
Always have them on hand in case they're needed at immigration.
Accommodation Details
If you managed to secure accommodation in advance, have the booking details, host contact details and lease printed out and in digital form as well!
Medical Records
Health checkup results, prescriptions, diagnosis letters and other important medical documents.
Insurance Documents
Travel insurance, medical insurance or contents insurance - have them on hand.
Emergency Contact List
Have both digital and physical copies just in case!
International Drivers License
If you plan on driving while overseas, make sure to obtain your International Drivers License beforehand in your home country.
Bank Documents
Proof of funds may be required sometimes!
Home Comforts & Personal Items
Photos & Small Keepsakes
To personalise your space and rid the homesickness.
Favourite Snacks
Pack a few of your go-to treats to enjoy a comforting taste of home whenever you need it! However, do double check the Australian border restrictions on bringing in food from abroad.
Reusable Water Bottle
Essential in Sydney's weather, especially the summer.
Reusable Shopping Bags
Australia encourages eco-friendly habits!
Basic Toiletries
Toothbrush, toothpaste, personal skincare and makeup.
Sun Protection
Sydney's summer sun can be brutal! Don't forget sun screen, UV protection sunglasses and other sun protection essentials.
Personal Laundry Net
A must have if you're staying in a shared dorm with a shared laundry room.
Mini First Aid Kit
Plasters, bandages, painkillers, inhalers - everything that's necessary.
(Bonus!) Student Living
Daily School Bag
Be it a tote, a backpack or just a laptop case.
Sports & Exercise Gear
If you're planning on joining any clubs or subscribing for a gym membership.
Card Holder (With Lanyard)
Don't lose your Opalcard or student ID card!
Small Toolkit
Sometimes accidents can happen and you need a quick fix!
What You DON'T Need
Clothing
- Heavy winter coats or snow gear: Sydney gets cold, but not freezing.
- Too many formal outfits: One or two is enough.
- Excessive shoes: They take up space and you’ll walk a lot. Comfort > quantity.
Gadgets
- Hair dryers, kettles, irons, rice cookers: Cheap at Kmart/Target.
- Voltage converters: Most modern electronics are dual-voltage so you only need plug adapters.
- Bulky speakers or printers: Buy secondhand or use campus facilities.
Documents
- Every original certificate you own: Bring only essentials + digital backups.
- Large amounts of cash: Sydney is extremely card-friendly.
Home Comforts
- Full bedding sets: Duvets, pillows and sheets are bulky. Buy locally.
- Kitchenware: Pots, pans and utensils are inexpensive and easy to find.
- Too many snacks: Customs restrictions + plenty of Asian groceries in Sydney.
Personal Essentials
- Bulk toiletries: Heavy and unnecessary.
- Large first-aid kits: Pharmacies are everywhere.
- Stationery in bulk: Officeworks has everything.
Extras
- Textbooks: Buy/borrow once you arrive.
- Decor or furniture: Your room will have basics; personalise later.
- Multiple bags/suitcases: One checked bag + one carry-on is usually enough.
🌟 Sydney-Specific Tips
- Weather swings are real so pack layers.
- Walking is a lifestyle so comfortable shoes matter.
- Beaches + coastal walks mean swimwear and sun protection are essential.
- Public transport is tap-on/tap-off so keep your Opal card handy.
