There’s something uniquely Australian about loading up the car, throwing a few essentials in the back, and heading out onto the open road. Maybe it’s the sheer size of the country, maybe it’s our love of the outdoors, or maybe it’s just the way the coastlines, deserts, and rainforests all seem to beg for exploration. Whatever the reason, road trips here aren’t just holidays—they’re a way of life.
But if you’ve ever pulled up to your campsite only to realise you left the torch at home, or that the esky is buried somewhere under a pile of tangled fishing rods, you’ll know that packing well can make or break the experience. It’s not about overpacking—it’s about choosing the right gear. Because when you’ve got what you need, you can focus on what matters: the adventure itself.
So, whether you’re taking surfboards up the coast, heading inland with a swag, or strapping bikes to bike racks for a weekend of trails, here’s the essential car packing list for Aussie road trips.
1. A Reliable Esky (and Snacks That Last)
You’d think an esky is an obvious choice, but you’d be surprised how many people grab the cheap one from the servo and regret it by midday. A good esky is an investment—something that’ll keep ice frozen through a Queensland summer or last you through a long weekend in the outback.
Don’t forget non-perishable snacks, too. Nuts, muesli bars, and crackers save you when you’re a couple of hours from the nearest bakery. And pro tip: always pack more water than you think you’ll need. Australia’s climate doesn’t mess around.
2. Maps—Yes, the Paper Kind
We all love Google Maps, but anyone who’s driven through country NSW or outback SA knows signal blackouts are real. Having an old-fashioned paper map (or even better, an atlas) is one of those small things you’ll thank yourself for later. Plus, it makes the car feel like an adventure-mobile instead of just another commute.
3. Swags, Tents, and Sleeping Gear
Australians have perfected the art of the swag—it’s simple, portable, and surprisingly comfortable. But even if you’re a tent person, having the right sleeping gear makes all the difference. Don’t skimp on sleeping bags; the desert gets cold at night, and so do alpine regions. A lightweight roll mat or inflatable mattress doesn’t hurt either.
4. Surfboards, Bikes, and Other “Toys”
This is where the fun happens. Your gear is what turns a road trip from “driving holiday” into “adventure.” Surfboards for the coast, mountain bikes for the trails, kayaks for the rivers. Whatever you’re into, pack it in a way that’s safe and accessible.
That’s the key: accessibility. If you’ve ever wrestled a surfboard out of a boot or tried to jam bikes in next to eskies and camp chairs, you’ll know the value of proper racks and storage. It’s the difference between hitting the water straight away or spending an hour swearing at bungee cords.
5. First Aid and Safety Gear
It doesn’t matter if you’re only going a couple of hours away—it’s worth packing a decent first aid kit. Bandages, antiseptic, painkillers, and sunscreen are non-negotiables. If you’re going bush, add a snake bite kit to the list. And while we’re on safety: throw in a spare torch, jumper cables, and at least one good multi-tool.
The RACV has an excellent guide on road trip safety essentials that’s worth a look before you set off.
6. Camp Kitchen Basics
Unless you plan to live on servo pies and takeaway (no judgement, we’ve all done it), you’ll need a few basics. A camping stove, a small gas bottle, and a decent pan cover most situations. Don’t forget utensils, plates, and mugs—you’ll miss them more than you’d think.
Oh, and always pack instant coffee or tea. There’s nothing better than sitting outside your tent in the morning with a hot drink, watching the bush wake up.
7. Clothing for Every Climate
Australia doesn’t do weather halfway. You can go from humid heat in the tropics to frosty nights in the Blue Mountains, all in one trip. Layers are your friend. A rain jacket, warm hoodie, breathable shirts, and comfortable shoes are basics you won’t regret.
And don’t forget thongs. They’re not just for the beach—they’re perfect for campground showers.
8. Entertainment on the Road
Let’s face it, road trips involve a lot of driving. Make a killer playlist, download a few podcasts, or even go old school and bring an audiobook. Kids? Pack games, books, and maybe a tablet loaded with movies (because sanity matters).
9. Storage and Organisation
The less rummaging you have to do, the better. Storage tubs or bags keep everything in place, and they’re easy to slide in and out of the car. Label them if you want to avoid the classic “where’s the sunscreen?” chaos.
And don’t underestimate how much smoother things go when the car is packed smartly. Keep snacks and drinks within arm’s reach. Put overnight gear on top if you’re arriving late. Think about what you’ll need first when you arrive and pack accordingly.
10. A Sense of Adventure
Okay, this one sounds cheesy, but it’s real. Road trips never go perfectly—there’s always a flat tyre, a wrong turn, or a surprise storm. That’s part of the charm. Half the stories you’ll tell later won’t be about the perfect sunset—they’ll be about the detour that led you to a random bakery in a tiny town, or the time your swag got soaked and you ended up sleeping under the stars instead.
Wrapping Up Your Aussie Road Trip Adventure
Australia was made for epic road trips, and with the right planning, every journey can be as smooth as it is unforgettable. Whether you’re chasing surf along the coast, winding through rainforest, or crossing the outback, packing smart and embracing the unexpected are key to making memories that last. So, grab your essentials, load up your gear, and hit the road—the adventure of a lifetime is out there, just waiting for you to discover it.
Australia is built for road trips. From surf breaks to desert plains, from tropical rainforests to red dirt highways, there’s a lifetime of adventure waiting. And packing smart is what makes those adventures smooth instead of stressful.
So, load up the esky, roll up the swag, strap the bikes on the rack, and just go. The road’s waiting—and you’ll never regret answering it.
