The Australia Working Holiday Packing Guide

Every year, thousands of young Brits flock to Australia on a working holiday visa, spending twelve months working and living in the sun. If the thought of packing all your belongings into one backpack sounds daunting, get started with our handy working holiday packing list, which is sure to set you up for a life changing year.

Clothes

Without a doubt, clothes are one of the most important things you’ll need. The clothes you’ll need will depend on the time of year you visit, and where you plan on going, but generally temperatures don’t fall below 14C. Take staple items such as a light waterproof jacket, a fleece, light trousers, a handful of tops and vests, and a couple of shorts/ skirts and dresses. In terms of shoes, a pair of flip flops, and sturdy trainers/ hiking boots should suffice. Don’t forget that you’ll also need work appropriate clothes for a working holiday, which may mean a smart suit or dress depending on the type of work you’re looking for, but remember that you can always buy more when you get there.

CV and Cover Letter

Get your CV updated and printed before you even leave the country to save time at the other end, particularly as you may not have access to a printer. Make sure to include contact information, including a local phone number. You could also research some places you’re thinking of applying to and write personalised cover letters before you leave. If you’re planning on doing bar or restaurant work, you will also need to have a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate which can be done online, Make sure you do the correct course for the state you’re visiting, as they differ between states.

Passport and Visa

Before you even enter the country, you will have to have the correct visa. A working holiday visa allows you to work in the country for twelve months given you are aged 18-30 and have not used the same visa before. For more advice, or to secure your visa, check out immigration2oz.com.

Technology

If you’re planning on staying down under for a year, it is probably worth bringing your laptop, as this will help you find jobs and secure accommodation. Other basic items of technology you’ll want to bring include a camera, unlocked phone, chargers and an adapter. If you’re a big reader, packing a Kindle or other tablet is a far better option to lugging around a bag full of novels.

Money

You can use your UK debit or credit card in Australia, but it is also worth taking some cash in AUD. You will also need to open a bank account, which can be done before you get there. The National Australia Bank can help you set up a bank account up to twelve months before you arrive so you’re all set for when you starting getting an income.