Last updated on April 24th, 2025
As Australia draws closer to welcoming another sun-drenched summer, nature enthusiasts gear up for an adventure Down Under. With its diverse landscapes, it sets the ideal backdrop for all manner of outdoor activities. From surfing in Byron Bay to hiking the Great Ocean Walk, Australia beckons explorers to immerse themselves in the lap of nature’s grandeur, all while offering a touch of luxury.
As you prepare for this expedition, packing plays a vital role in ensuring an immersive and comfortable experience. Below, we’ll go through some Australian summer essentials that cater to those seeking the thrill of outdoor exploration amidst the continent’s breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you plan to explore the coast or venture inland, a reliable car hire service can provide the freedom and flexibility to discover Australia’s hidden gems at your own pace.
4 Australian summer essentials
Sunscreen
Sydney experiences the highest level of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in January, February, and December, when the maximum UV index can reach values of 13 to 14, corresponding to the “extreme” category of sun exposure. So, sunscreen is a must-have if you’re planning to see the Blue Mountains and perhaps go on a canyoning or rappelling adventure. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 helps protect the skin from harmful sunburns and reduces the risk of long-term damage, including melanoma. Plus, using sunscreen daily has anti-aging benefits like preventing age spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. Try Australian-made Ulra Violette’s Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen with SPF 50+ for a sunscreen that doubles as a luxurious skincare product.
Sunglasses
No summer trip to Australia is complete without a visit to Bondi Beach, whether to surf or charter a yacht to take you diving or snorkeling. In any case, taking precautions and protecting your eyes is important, especially since being near water intensifies UV radiation. When selecting a pair of sunglasses, opt for larger ones that cover more of the eye area. The Holbrook XL by Oakley has oversized frames that are great for protecting the delicate skin and tissue around the eyes. If you require sports sunglasses to accompany you on a wide range of activities, the Canteen frames provide 100% UV filtering and are made of lightweight material for all-day comfort.
UPF clothing
Glamping – glamorous camping – offers the best of both worlds for nature lovers who are also partial to the finer things in life. Australia has no shortage of luxurious lodges for this activity in beautifully wild locations. For example, the Arkaba Conservancy in the Flinders Ranges offers overnight walking safaris or shorter bushwalks with a private guide and all the comforts you want, like a stylish lodge with en suite bathrooms. However, if you want to maximize your stay with the guided safari tours, it’s best to come prepared with sun-protective clothing as summer temperatures can be punishing to your skin. Check out the brand Solbari, which specializes in sun-safe apparel that blocks 98% of UVA and UVB rays.
Water bottle
Last but not least, a travel-friendly water bottle is essential for staying hydrated and to combat intense heat. With temperatures peaking, having a way to replenish fluids is crucial for overall well-being and preventing dehydration. A portable water bottle, like the highly-packable 70-ounce Platypus Platy bottle, guarantees you can easily carry and access water during outdoor activities, whether you’re hiking through the Jatbula Trail in the Northern Territory or the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail in South Australia.
Summers in Australia are notorious for the scorching heat they bring, often reaching well above 86 degrees Fahrenheit, and occasionally soaring even higher. The intense sun and the country’s unique geography can produce harsh ultraviolet radiation on your body. As such, it’s crucial to be armed with the above-mentioned sun protection essentials to shield yourself from the blistering sun. Moreover, the risk of sunburn, eye damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer is significant, making sun protection necessary for a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience in Australia’s hot summers.
