Packing for your trip to Australia is exciting but it might be hard to know exactly what you need. Here is a list of what we recommend you bring with you to Australia.

Your baggage allowance

Depending on which airline you are flying to Australia with, the baggage allowance will vary.

It will also be different if you are fortunate enough to be flying in premium economy, business or first class. We recommend that you check your airline’s website and your ticket for details.

In general, economy-class passengers can check in one piece of luggage up to 30kg in weight. They can also have one carry-on piece up to 7kg, plus a handbag or laptop case.

If you are flying domestically into Melbourne from another Australian city, the weight limit may be significantly lower (20kg), so please consider the restrictions when packing if you have a connecting, domestic flight.

As you will be restricted by your baggage allowance, you will have to think carefully about what to pack.

In your suitcase

Clothes

Australia is generally a very casually dressed society. For university, you will generally be wearing comfortable, casual clothes, and business attire if you intend to work part-time.

When it comes to what you should pack, make sure you have clothes for all four seasons – Victoria’s climate is variable. If you can’t fit everything in your case and still meet your baggage allowance, you can always purchase clothing upon your arrival (but the price may be higher than in your own country).

You should pack a range of clothing including t-shirts, pants and jumpers, as well as comfortable shoes, a hat, a warm, weather-proof jacket and basic toiletries. We also recommend you bring a small towel and some bedding.

Hard-to-find items

Australia is home to people from many different cultures and there are many businesses that sell items from all around the world. You will probably be able to find everything you need while you are here, but there may be some items that are not as common as back home.

Certain shaped pillows may not be available at every store. For example, bolster pillows, which are popular throughout Asia, are not used as much in Australia. You should be able to buy them at craft and homewares stores like Spotlight, which has locations throughout Melbourne.

Melbourne has a multicultural population made up of immigrants from more than 180 countries. Our supermarkets carry a wide selection of herbs and spices, plus the major chains (Woolworths and Coles) generally have a large international foods section. If you are looking for a specific ingredient or product, try searching for a store that specialises in products from your home country or region.

In your carry-on luggage

Mobile phone and computer

You should pack your laptop, your mobile phone and any other valuable devices (such as a tablet) in your carry-on luggage.

If your computer is new and cost more than $AUD900, you may be subject to paying duty (importation tax). As a student, this is rarely the case, especially if you can prove that you intend to take the computer back out of the country when you leave. If your laptop is more than one year old, no problem. We recommend that you have proof of purchase (a receipt) with you.

When bringing a mobile phone, make sure that it is 'unlocked' – not restricted to the phone network in your home country. You can then purchase an Australian SIM card to insert into your phone. Most mobile phone companies in Australia will allow you to purchase a pre-paid SIM card, or you can sign up to a post-pay longer-term contract. You might also choose to bring an international pre-paid SIM card.

If you have any doubt as to whether your devices will work in Australia, please check with the Australian Communications and Media Authority for further information.

It’s also a good idea to pack your chargers as well as some Australian power adaptors for your electronics.

Money

We recommend you bring a small amount of cash, preferably in Australian dollars, with you in your carry-on luggage. This is just in case you have any problems with your credit or debit cards on your arrival and you need to make a small purchase.

There are banks and foreign currency exchanges at the airport where you can exchange cash, as well as several ATMs for withdrawing Australian dollars. If you have a bank card or debit card that works internationally, you can keep your funds in your bank account at home and just withdraw cash as needed from ATMs.

Once you are in Melbourne, banks and foreign exchange outlets can exchange your foreign currency or travellers' cheques. You will find them located in shopping centres, post offices and retail areas.

What to wear on the plane

On long-distance flights, it is important to be comfortable. Depending on your airport of departure, you might have to remove your belt and/or your shoes to go through security, so it may be easiest to wear slip-on shoes and no belt.

Airports can also be large places so make sure your shoes are good for walking long distances. Planes tend to be a bit over air-conditioned, so bring an extra layer of clothing and socks to keep your feet warm.

Keep in mind what the weather will be when you arrive in Melbourne and dress accordingly.