Travel to Australia

Preparing for Australia

Packing your Bags

The seasons in Australia are, at any given time, the reverse of the seasons in Europe: when it’s spring in Europe it’s autumn in Australia.  Depending on the part of the country, summers can reach temperatures in the forties Celsius; winters, on the other hand, rarely average below ten degrees Celsius.

The type of clothing you need will further vary according to the part of the country and the time of year, so check the internet for local temperatures before you pack.  

While it is tempting to pack favourite foods from home, it is important to be aware of Australia’s strict quarantine laws.  These include restrictions on food, plant material and animal products.  More specific information on restricted items can be obtained from Australian quarantine sites on the internet.  

To spare yourself money and delays at Customs, avoid packing any products you’re unsure about, and check that your baggage meets the weight restriction of 20kg (44lbs).

You will be held responsible for everything contained in your baggage, so don’t carry items or bags for anyone else, and lock your suitcase.   

More than any other items, your personal documents and cards are the most valuable. It is therefore recommended you make photocopies of all your travel, identity, banking and insurance documents, as well as all documents authorising your study and entry into Australia.

Carry the originals in your hand luggage, a set of copies in your suitcase, and leave a set of copies with someone at home.

Finally, if you don’t want your first day in Australia to involve being deprived of the use of your laptop or hairdryer, ensure you bring a power adapter that will make them suitable for use in Australia.

Other Pre-Flight Essentials

Lost baggage and cancelled flights are some unfortunate risks of any journey.  Consider purchasing travel insurance: it won’t reduce the risk; it will, however, reduce the cost of mishaps when they occur.

Unless you have managed to secure permanent accommodation in advance, you will require a short-term place to stay when you first arrive.  Your educational institution will be able to provide you with some options.  Other alternatives are youth hostels operated by the Youth Hostel Association (YHA) or YMCA, and guesthouses or Bed and Breakfasts advertised on the internet.  Hotels and motels are also widely available, though they are more expensive.