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Ultimate Packing List for International Students Going to Australia

By Shivangi Mishra

Updated on Jun 02, 2025 | 1.21K+ views

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Students moving to Australia should ensure they have the following essentials on their packing list: important documents, weather-appropriate clothing, personal care items, electronic devices, and essentials for college life.

Student life in Australia means you need to get used to the weather, your daily activities, and the rules and regulations. Packing smartly is crucial to make sure you bring needed items while adhering to airline baggage rules and student visa requirements. Recognizing Australia's varied climate and your daily needs will help ensure a smooth, enjoyable start to your study in Australia journey.

The write-up below outlines the detailed aspects of the Packing List for International Students Going to Australia. Let's delve in!

Packing List for International Students Going to Australia - Overview

It’s important to focus on your passport, visa, and health insurance papers if you’re getting ready to go to Australia as an international student. A jacket and some cash, as well as products you typically need such as toiletries and your favorite electronics with their chargers, should not be missed. Please remember to bring your school supplies and a bag to use during your university studies.

If you put things in groups, you’ll likely include everything needed and nothing extra.

Category Items to Include
Important Documents Passport, student visa, offer letter, CoE, transcripts, health insurance
Clothing Casual wear, formal clothes, winter essentials, footwear
Electronics Laptop, smartphone, chargers, power adapter (Type I), power bank
Toiletries Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, sanitary products
Medicines Prescription meds, basic first aid kit, painkillers, allergy meds
Kitchen Essentials Pressure cooker, basic utensils, small spice packets
Miscellaneous Travel adapter, reusable water bottle, umbrella, stationery

Essential Documents to Carry

To get into Australia, you must have a passport, a visa, and an Incoming Passenger Card. A valid visa is required for you if you are not a citizen. All of these, plus details on Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) and health insurance, are a must for international students. 

Important Documents

Having your main documents sorted and close by is necessary when you’re traveling to Australia. This helps, as you don’t have to worry about immigration issues and can quickly get around the city.

Document Purpose Tip
Passport with a valid Student Visa Identification and entry permission Carry the original and a photocopy
Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) Proof of admission to your Australian university Keep a digital and hard copy
Offer letter from the university Admission confirmation Keep handy for visa and enrollment
Academic transcripts & certificates Proof of prior education Carry originals and copies
Financial documents Proof of funds to support your studies Bank statements, scholarship letters
Health insurance documents Proof of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) Keep both digital and physical copies
Travel insurance Coverage for emergencies Optional but recommended
Medical records & prescriptions Necessary for ongoing treatments Carry with doctor’s prescription
Flight tickets & itinerary Travel details Keep accessible during travel
Contact details & Australian address For emergency and official communication Note down clearly

Clothing & Accessories Checklist

Remember to pack airy clothing, including t-shirts, shorts and a swimsuit, if you are going to Australia. Think about a light jacket for chilly evenings and cozy walking footwear.

Clothes

  • Lightweight cotton shirts and t-shirts
  • Casual trousers, jeans, and shorts
  • Formal outfit for presentations or interviews
  • Comfortable everyday wear (hoodies, sweatshirts)
  • Ethnic wear for cultural or festive occasions

Winter Essentials

  • Warm jacket or coat
  • Sweaters and hoodies
  • Thermal innerwear (if traveling to colder regions)
  • Gloves, scarf, and beanie
  • Warm socks

Footwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
  • Flip-flops or sandals for casual wear
  • Formal shoes for events or interviews
  • Waterproof shoes or boots (optional, for rainy seasons)

Electronics and Gadgets

When relocating or visiting Australia with electronic devices, it’s important to take into account safety regulations, voltage compatibility, and possible duty-free limits. Imported electronic products, particularly those that are "prescribed," frequently need safety certification, and it is vital to know the Australian electrical voltage (240V). 

  • Laptop with charger (check for international warranty)
  • Smartphone with a global SIM or unlocked for a local SIM
  • Universal power adapter (Type I plug for Australia)
  • Power bank (within airline-allowed capacity)
  • Noise-canceling headphones or earphones
  • External hard drive or USB flash drive
  • Portable travel charger or multi-port extension board
  • Scientific calculator (if required for your course)
  • Fitness band or smartwatch (optional, for daily use)
  • Camera (optional, for hobby or travel)

Kitchen Essentials for Indian Students

For Indian students traveling to Australia, important kitchen necessities include a pressure cooker, idli maker, masala dabba, and several traditional Indian cooking utensils such as a chakla-belan (rolling board and pin) and dosa tava. Additional helpful items consist of stainless steel cutlery, a chopping board, kitchen shears, and chef knives.

Also Read: Study in Australia for Indian Students After 12th: Key Facts

Utensils

Select portable and sturdy utensils that are simple to transport and fulfill your essential cooking requirements: 

  • Small pressure cooker (with spare gasket and whistle)
  • One non-stick frying pan and one small saucepan
  • Serving spoon, spatula, and ladle
  • Medium-sized plate, bowl, and cup
  • Tiffin box or lunchbox
  • Cutting board and a small kitchen knife(appropriately packed and put in checked baggage). Check the airline rules for the length of knives allowed
  • Peeler and grater
  • Set of measuring spoons
  • Spoon and fork

Food & Spices

Transport small amounts of key ingredients to prepare basic dishes in your initial weeks: 

  • Basic spices: turmeric, cumin, mustard seeds, garam masala, red chili powder (in labeled, sealed packets)
  • Instant noodles, ready-to-eat meals, or poha/upma packs
  • Small packets of tea, coffee, or masala chai
  • Dry snacks: namkeen, biscuits, or energy bars
  • Lentils (dal), rice, or instant mix packets (only in small quantities)

Toiletries and Medications

When visiting Australia with personal care items and medicines, be aware of the amount and packaging. For medications, a supply for three months for personal or close family use is typically permitted without import authorization; however, it is advisable to have a prescription or a doctor’s note. For personal care items, follow airport security regulations regarding liquids, sprays, and gels in hand luggage. 

Toiletries

Pack travel-sized and easy-to-carry versions of your daily hygiene essentials:

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Soap or body wash
  • Deodorant
  • Hairbrush or comb
  • Shaving kit (manual razor, shaving cream)
  • Nail cutter and tweezers
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Sanitary products (tampons, pads, or menstrual cups)
  • Towel or quick-dry microfiber towel

Medicines

Pack a basic medical kit and any prescription medications you'll need:

  • Paracetamol or basic painkillers
  • Cold and flu medication
  • Antacids and digestive aids
  • Band-aids and antiseptic cream
  • Any ongoing prescription medication (with a doctor’s prescription)
  • Allergy medication (antihistamines, if needed)
  • Mosquito repellent cream or spray
  • Eye drops or contact lens solution (if required)

Miscellaneous Items to Pack 

When visiting Australia, various items to think about bringing are a power adapter, a travel pillow, a reusable water bottle, and a first aid kit. Additionally, think about bringing a guidebook, maps, snacks, and an organizational tool like packing cubes. 

In addition to your essentials, some extra items can help ease your transition to living in Australia, making it more comfortable. These frequently disregarded items can help you avoid wasting time, money, and trouble when you arrive. 

  • Power adapter (Type I) for Australian sockets
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Basic sewing kit (needles, thread, buttons)
  • Compact umbrella or raincoat
  • Stationery (pens, notebooks, stapler)
  • Laundry bag and a few detergent pods
  • A few passport-sized photographs
  • Small lock for hostel or dorm security
  • Personal diary or journal
  • Small cultural items or snacks for comfort

Packing these little extras can make a big difference in helping you feel at home abroad.

Items You Should Not Carry

Since imported food, plant items, and animals are strictly controlled in Australia, it’s best to leave them at home. Guns, firearms, munitions, narcotics, and steroids are not permitted. Visit the Australian Government website for complete information on what is not allowed and what happens if you are caught with an illegal item.

Category Items Not Allowed Reason
Food Items Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, homemade pickles Risk of pests and diseases
Spices & Condiments Unlabeled or loose spices, items in oil Biosecurity concern; must be factory-sealed
Medicines Without a prescription or improperly labeled meds May be classified as controlled substances
Electronics Devices with open lithium batteries or damaged batteries Fire and safety hazard
Counterfeit Goods Fake branded items, pirated media Violation of intellectual property laws
Cultural Artifacts Items made from endangered species or unlicensed antiques Illegal under wildlife protection laws
Excess Cash Amounts over AUD 10,000 not declared Must be declared at customs
Sharp Objects Knives, blades, or scissors in hand luggage Security risk during flights

Packing Tips for Indian Students Going to Australia

To get ready for your studies in Australia, bring suitable clothing for the climate, important documents, and a few personal belongings. Verify your airline's baggage policy and take into account essentials such as a universal power adapter and medical supplies. 

  • Utilize Vacuum Bags for Space Efficiency

Reduce the size of heavy garments such as jackets and sweaters to optimize luggage capacity and adhere to airline weight restrictions. 

  • Check the Weight of Your Luggage Before Going to the Airport

Utilize a handheld luggage scale to prevent urgent repacking or additional baggage charges at the airport. 

  • Tag Each Bag 

Make sure to clearly mark each bag with your complete name, phone number, and Australian address to avoid any confusion or loss while traveling. 

  • Select Long-lasting Suitcases

Choose a durable suitcase featuring wheels and TSA-approved locks for safety and convenience on lengthy international trips. 

  • Maintain Necessities in Your Carry-On

Pack travel documents, a spare outfit, a charger, medications, and snacks in your cabin bag in case of delays or lost baggage.

  • Prepare Travel-Sized Toiletries

Bring only travel-sized personal care products to conserve space—full-size items are readily accessible in Australia.

  • Roll Garments Instead of Folding

Rolling reduces wrinkles and provides additional room in your suitcase for other necessities.

  • Verify Airline Luggage Regulations 

Check your airline's baggage policy for both checked and carry-on luggage before you start packing to prevent any unexpected issues. 

Also Read: How to Study in Australia from India | Requirements & Application Process

Conclusion

Getting set for your trip to Australia as an Indian student is exciting, so you should start by creating a proper Packing List for International Students Going to Australia to help things go smoothly. Segregate your things rationally; doing so will save you time and effort and will also help your confidence in starting in your new country. By checking the right documents, packing clothes for the weather, and learning which things are not needed, you can save yourself the hassle later..

We are aware that each country, subject and university has its own set of learning challenges and questions. That’s the reason why we support you beyond choosing the right university. We provide support for your visa, admissions, advice before you leave, and suggestions for what to pack, so you have a successful and fulfilling study-abroad journey.

Remember, starting off well in another country comes from having knowledge and being fully prepared. When you have upGrad right by your side, you’ll never feel alone during this process. Cheers to a bold launch and a fruitful educational journey in Australia!

FAQs

What is the luggage limit for international students traveling to Australia?

Which documents ought I to take in my carry-on bag?

Am I allowed to bring food products or spices from my house?

Should I pack winter attire from my native country?

Should I bring cooking tools or devices?

Is it essential to bring bed linens and blankets?

What kind of power adapter is required for Australia?

Should I take textbooks or scholarly resources?

Are medications permitted, and will I require a prescription?

Am I able to purchase clothing, gadgets, and personal care items in Australia?

What items should I include in my cabin bag?

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Shivangi Mishra

Sr. Content Editor |279 articles published

She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them w...

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