The Ultimate Packing List for
Australia & New Zealand

After coordinating group tours to Australia and New Zealand, I've learned exactly what travelers wish they'd packed — and what they wish they'd left at home. This is the definitive list I send to every traveler joining my January 2028 tour.

Australia and New Zealand in January means summer in the Southern Hemisphere — but don't be fooled. Temperatures can swing wildly, especially in New Zealand where you might hike a glacier in the morning and enjoy warm Queenstown sunshine in the afternoon. You need to pack for variety.

The golden rule for group travel: pack light, pack smart. You'll be moving hotels frequently, loading luggage onto coaches, and navigating airports. Everything in this list earns its weight.

Luggage: Start with the Right Bag

For a 17-day trip, most travelers do well with one checked bag and a carry-on. I strongly recommend a spinner suitcase under 26" for checked luggage — easier to maneuver on cobblestones and coach storage. Here are my top picks:

Clothing: Pack for Summer & Layers

January is peak summer in both countries, but New Zealand's South Island can get surprisingly cool, especially near Milford Sound and in the mountains around Queenstown. Here's how I recommend building your travel wardrobe:

The Clothing Formula

• 5–6 lightweight tops — quick-dry fabric is a must. Merino wool is worth the investment.
• 2 pairs of travel pants — convertible zip-off pants are perfect for touring and hiking.
• 1 pair of shorts — for Sydney beach days and warm city exploration.
• 1 lightweight rain jacket — NZ weather is famously unpredictable. Non-negotiable.
• 1 fleece or mid-layer — for Milford Sound and evening Queenstown.
• 1 nice dinner outfit — some restaurants and cultural events are semi-formal.
• Comfortable walking shoes — you'll average 8–12k steps a day on tour.
• Swimwear — for the Great Barrier Reef and hotel pools.
• Sun hat & sunglasses — UV levels in Australia are extremely high. Protect yourself!

Health & Safety Essentials

Australia in particular has some of the world's strongest UV radiation. Sun protection is not optional — it's survival. Here's what every traveler on my tours absolutely must bring:

• SPF 50+ sunscreen — buy extra, you'll use more than you expect at the Great Barrier Reef.
• Insect repellent — especially for any outdoor activities in Queensland.
• Prescription medications — bring more than you think you'll need, plus copies of prescriptions.
• Basic first aid kit — blister plasters are the #1 most-used item on every tour.
• Travel insurance documents — EF Go Ahead includes coverage, but keep paperwork accessible.
• Reusable water bottle — tap water is safe and delicious in both countries. Stay hydrated!

Power & Tech Essentials