Packing Checklist For Sydney

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.