Lonely Planet community blog

Our mapping guru, Canadian Ken, will soon enjoy a visit from his Canadian cousin Nolan. It’ll be Nolan’s first time in Australia, and he isn’t sure what to pack. We thought we’d give him some tips, with your help.

The Australia branch of the Thorn Tree has some clear ideas about what to haul to Oz. Apart from the essentials (rucksack, thongs, adaptors for gadgets and phones), they recommend sunnies, sunscreen, a Swiss army knife for emergencies (but don’t take it on the plane), ‘something to wear to the footy or cricket’ and, importantly, ‘a bicycle helmet, even if you don’t cycle,’ to ward off rogue magpies. Yes Nolan, there’s crazy critters down under.

Nolan will be touching down in Melbourne, which is notorious for its unpredictable, ‘four seasons in one day’ weather. So there may be some wisdom in this discussion about packing for multiple climates.

It’s probably worth consulting this share session about the fine line between what to take and stuff you wish you left at home. And, if he’s a geek like our Ken, he’ll need to take his iPhone along (which can be packed with goodies itself).

Finally, he should pay homage at the feet of Packing List Geoff, the Thorn Tree’s patron saint of schlep. From loofahs to nylon pants to old stamps, Geoff’s got you covered.

What else should Nolan bring?

[Photo: ftzdomino/Flickr - This isn't Nolan, nor are we suggesting he pack a kitty. We just thought the puss was cute]

Hide 3 comments

1. October 16, 2009 meganadam Report this comment

   As an Aussie, i can say a hat is an ABSOLUTE must, as well as a singlet to wear to the cricket (there is no footy on in Australia at this time of year),board shorts to swim in and which can also be worn to the cricket(those european swim shorts are gastly to see on grown men), a jumper and long pants (jumper as the weather can turn quickly in melbourne, and long pants not only for warmth, but to prevent mosquito bites too). Most importantly, a sense of humour!Enjoy your visit to our fantastic country.

2. October 20, 2009 anneo Report this comment

   An extra singlet and that would just about do it.

3. October 26, 2009 glennbeck Report this comment

   Nolan should bring some extra underwear. You never know what might go wrong