Essential Packing Tips for a Three-Week Adventure in Australia

I just returned from an incredible three-week trip to Australia in April. We explored the Sydney area and then traveled up to Hervey Bay at the base of the Great Barrier Reef. It was the kind of trip that makes you fall in love with the world all over again! And yes, I did it all with just a carry-on and a backpack.

The Joy of Light Packing

Light packing has become a personal mission of mine. It took time and practice, but I’ve gotten to a point where I can pack for three weeks without checking a bag. My first time doing this was a couple of years ago on a whirlwind trip through Europe. We visited five countries in 12 days, and traveling light was a must. That trip didn’t offer much access to laundry, so I washed clothes in the bathtub and dried them with hair dryers and heated bathroom floors. It wasn’t glamorous, but it worked.

Still, if I had to do it over again, I might splurge on hotel laundry service. But then again, those memories are priceless, and I'd never trade them for anything.

Packing Light in Australia

On this trip to Australia, things were much easier. We weren’t traveling in the cold season, and we had access to a washer and dryer. That made a huge difference. I also took both a carry-on suitcase and a roomy backpack, which gave me a little extra flexibility. I didn’t have to bring a coat, but I did pack a sweatshirt. I always wear the bulkiest items on the plane to save space in my luggage.

My Favorite Carry-On Backpack

For this trip, I used the LOVEVOOK Travel Backpack, and I can’t say enough good things about it. It’s spacious, well-organized, and fits perfectly under the seat on a plane. It held my in-flight comforts, electronics, and other essentials I wanted within reach.

Carry-On Packing List

Clothes

• 2 hair turbans: These were fantastic for quickly drying my hair and keeping frizz at bay. They barely take up any space and dry super fast.

• 1 sweatshirt: I wore this to save room in my luggage.

• 2 pajama bottoms

• 2 pajama tops

• 2 dresses

• 2 cardigans

• 1 pair of tennis shoes: Wore these to save room in my luggage.

• 1 pair of sandals

• 1 pair of white flats

• 1 pair of black flats

• 1 pair of flip flops

• 2 pairs of jeans

• 3 pairs of socks

• 2 pairs of shorts

• 3 t-shirts

• 4 blouses

• 7 tank tops

• Plenty of unmentionables

• 1 swimsuit

• 1 travel purse

• 1 belt

  
  

Electronics

• 2 adapters

• 1 converter

• 2 portable chargers

• Various charging cables

  
  

Toiletries & Accessories (all travel-sized)

• Face wash

• Moisturizer

• Hair products

• Shampoo

• Hand sanitizer

• This mini razor but I changed the head out with these razors because I prefer them.

• Perfume

• Sunscreen

• Makeup

• Lip gloss

• Toothbrush

• Toothpaste

• Medicines: Dramamine, Tylenol, ibuprofen, Pepto, cough medicine, allergy pills, Tums

• Vitamins

• Glasses

• Jewelry

• Bandaids

• Deodorant

• Hair ties and clips

• Cotton balls

• Q-tips

• Ear plugs

• Hairbrush

  
  

Hair Tools I Packed

• Mini hair dryer brush: This was one of my best travel tools. Compact, powerful, and perfect for styling on the go. It worked wonderfully and saved me from packing a full-size blow dryer.

• Mini curling iron: Sadly, this one was a fail. It got way too hot and ended up damaging my hair more than styling it. I honestly wish I could return it. It’s one item I definitely don’t recommend.

  
  

In-Flight Comforts

• Travel foot rest: A game changer for long-haul flights. It’s lightweight, easy to set up, and made a big difference for my comfort in economy seating.

• Eye mask: Super soft and completely blocked out light, allowing me to sleep on the plane.

  
  

What I Wish I Had Packed

• My regular-sized curling iron

• My straightener

  
  

What I Didn’t End Up Using

• 3 tank tops

• 1 t-shirt

• 1 blouse

• 1 pair of jeans

• Belt

• Vitamins (I always forgot to take them)

  
  

What I Won’t Pack Next Time

• The second dress and sandals I brought specifically for Easter - definitely could have made do with what I had.

  
  

Souvenirs and More

One of the best parts of traveling is what you bring back. I came home with a few extra items:

• 3 t-shirts

• A pile of tea towels

• A new purse

• 2 books

  
  

Conclusion: Embrace the Freedom of Carry-On Travel

Traveling with just a carry-on might feel intimidating, but I promise it’s possible - and freeing. With the right bag, smart planning, and a few multifunctional items, you can enjoy your trip without the hassle of heavy luggage or baggage claims.

Perhaps this carry-on packing list can help you plan for your next adventure. If you have a question about packing or planning for Australia, I’d love to help!

Remember, every trip is an opportunity to create cherished memories that last a lifetime. Embrace the journey, pack smart, and your travels will be all the more enjoyable.