Australia travel checklist
Power, visa, eSIM, packing rules, and weather in one fast page.
Currency
AUD
Language
English
Power
Plug type I, 230V / 50Hz.
Time zone
AEST (UTC+10)
Power banks
Under 100Wh allowed in carry-on; 100-160Wh needs airline approval; Up to 2 units.
Australia travel checklist overview
What this page covers
The Australia travel checklist highlights the key rules that affect most visitors: power standards, entry requirements, SIM options, carry-on rules, and weather expectations.
Who it helps
Use this checklist if you want a fast pre-flight scan before diving into the full tools. It is designed for first-time visitors and quick repeat trips.
Local context
Expect 230V power, long flight times, and strong mobile coverage across major cities and coastal routes.
Local essentials
What locals use
- Transit card: Opal (Sydney)
- Main airports: SYD, MEL, BNE
- Emergency number: 000
- City climate notes: Sydney is warm most of the year; Melbourne is cooler and more changeable; the north has a wet season from November to April.
- Voltage differences: Voltage is consistent nationwide at 230V / 50Hz.
Local insight
Australia is vast, so plan flights between major regions and leave extra time for driving distances. Coastal cities are walkable in the core, but day trips often require cars. Sun exposure is intense, so sunscreen and hats are essential even in cooler months. In tropical areas, expect sudden storms and humidity; in the south, pack layers for chilly evenings.
Entry essentials
🛂 Visa & entry
- Most travelers need an ETA or eVisitor before arrival
- Passport should be valid for the full stay
- Biosecurity rules are strict for food and plant items
🔌 Power & charging
- Type I plugs, 230V power
- Most devices support 100-240V input
- Bring a Type I adapter for chargers
📱 eSIM & data
- 4G/5G coverage is strong in cities
- Choose a plan with extra data for long drives
- Activate before landing for instant access
💳 Payments
- Tap-and-go cards are widely accepted
- Most cafes and transit accept cards
- Keep small cash for rural stops
Getting around, safety, and best seasons
🚆 Transportation
- Domestic flights save time between cities
- Opal and Myki cards cover major metros
- Driving is on the left for road trips
🛡️ Safety
- Emergency number is 000
- Stay hydrated and use sun protection
- Swim between the flags at beaches
🌤️ Best seasons
- September-October and March are mild
- Summer is hot with school holiday crowds
- Winter is cooler but still travel-friendly
Planning checklist
Australia travel checklist tools to use
Power bank rules
Under 100Wh allowed in carry-on; 100-160Wh needs airline approval; Up to 2 units.
Open tool →Visa and entry snapshot
| Passport | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | visa-free | ETA required before travel; short stays up to 3 months. |
| Japan | visa-free | ETA required before travel; short stays up to 3 months. |
| United Kingdom | visa-free | ETA required before travel; short stays up to 3 months. |
| France | Check | Open visa tool for full rules. |
Best eSIM picks for Australia
Airalo
10GB for 30 days • $20 • 4G/5G
Nomad
5GB for 30 days • $18 • 4G/LTE
Weather and packing advice
Best weather months around Sydney:
- September: 22°C / 14°C, 60mm rain
- October: 24°C / 16°C, 75mm rain
- March: 25°C / 18°C, 120mm rain
FAQ
Most travelers need an ETA or eVisitor before arrival. Use the visa tool to confirm for your passport.
Australia uses type I plugs with 230V / 50Hz power.
Yes, but they must be carried in the cabin and stay within airline watt-hour limits.
Other destinations
Last updated: 2025-02-01. Always confirm critical rules with official sources.