What to Pack for a Campervan Holiday in Australia
Packing for a campervan trip feels a bit like setting up a tiny holiday home on wheels. You don’t need a lot, but you do want the right things so the van feels organised and easy to live in.
Here’s a guide to what’s worth packing for a campervan holiday in Australia.
1. Clothing
Space is limited, so it helps to pack light. Soft bags or duffels are better than hard suitcases because they squish down and can be tucked away easily.
Instead of planning lots of outfits, think in layers:
- Light, breathable clothes for warm days
- A jumper or fleece for cooler evenings
- A light jacket (waterproof if you’re heading somewhere wetter or cooler)
- Comfortable shorts and/or lightweight pants
- Swimwear – there’s almost always a chance for a swim
- Relaxed sleepwear you’re happy to wear around the van
Most people end up wearing the same favourites on repeat, and many holiday parks have laundries, so you don’t need as much as you think.
For shoes, three pairs are usually plenty: everyday trainers or walking shoes, flip-flops, and maybe one pair of casual sandals.
2. Toiletries and Personal Items
Toiletries take up a surprising amount of room, so this is a good place to keep things streamlined.
Stick to your everyday essentials:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, skincare
- Shampoo and body wash in smaller bottles
- Sunscreen (high SPF) and SPF lip balm
- Insect repellent
- Any prescription medications
- A few basic first-aid items (band-aids, pain relief, antiseptic cream)
3. Bedding and Sleep Comfort
Sleep can make or break a trip, so it’s worth checking what your rental includes.
If bedding is provided, you might still like to bring:
- Your own pillow, if that makes a difference for you
- A light throw or extra blanket if you feel the cold
If bedding isn’t included, pack:
- Sheets (check bed sizes before you go)
- Doona/duvet or sleeping bags
- Pillows and pillowcases
- Bath towels and a quick-dry towel for the beach or pool
4. Kitchen and Food Basics
Most campervans include a small kitchen setup, but details vary, so it’s worth checking what’s listed in your booking.
If the van doesn’t come with a full kitchen kit, consider bringing:
- A small saucepan and frying pan
- A couple of decent knives
- Chopping board, spatula, tongs, and a wooden spoon
- Plates, bowls, mugs, and cutlery
- Dishcloth, sponge, and a small bottle of dishwashing liquid
- Tea towels
Even if some of this is already provided, a few extras make life easier:
- Food containers or resealable bags
- Foil or baking paper
- A reusable shopping bag
- Simple pantry staples: oil, salt, pepper, a few spices, tea/coffee
For meals, think easy one-pan dishes: pasta, stir-fries, tacos, BBQ-style dinners. You’ll quickly find a rhythm that suits how you like to eat.
5. Power, Tech, and Navigation
You’ll have a mix of battery power and regular power (when plugged into a powered site), so it pays to be a little intentional with devices.
Handy items:
- Phone chargers (plus a spare cable)
- A multi-USB charger or small power board for when you’re plugged in
- A portable power bank
- Headphones or earbuds
- Offline maps downloaded to your phone, just in case reception drops out
If you know you’ll be working or using laptops a lot, plan to stay on powered sites more often so you’re not chasing power all the time.
6. Outdoor Living Essentials
A big part of campervan life happens outside the van, so a few simple things can make your outdoor setup feel welcoming.
Useful extras:
- Camp chairs and a small fold-out table (often available as add-ons)
- A picnic rug or tough beach towel for grass and sand
- A hat and good sunglasses
- A small daypack for walks and quick trips to the shops
For beach-heavy trips:
- A mesh bag for wet gear
- A dedicated “swim towel”
- A few pegs or a simple clothesline to dry things around your site
It doesn’t have to be fancy – just enough to make sitting outside with a drink or a book feel inviting.
7. Little Things That Keep the Van Tidy
A tidy van feels bigger and calmer. A few small organising tricks can make a big difference.
Helpful items:
- Packing cubes or smaller bags inside your main bag
- A small basket or crate near the door for shoes
- A simple hanging organiser if there’s somewhere to hook it
- A couple of reusable shopping bags for groceries, laundry, or odds and ends
After a day or two, everyone tends to find “their” spots for things. Once you do, try to stick with it – future you will be grateful when you can reach for something and know exactly where it lives.
8. Safety and Practical Basics
Most rental vehicles come with standard safety gear, but it’s worth adding or checking a few things:
- A small torch or headlamp
- A basic first-aid kit if you’re heading somewhere remote
- Reusable water bottles for each person
- Copies (digital or printed) of booking and insurance details
Pro tip: Before you drive away, take a moment to ask how everything works: gas, water, power, where the spare tyre is, and how to empty and refill any tanks. It’s much easier to learn this at the depot than on the side of a road.
What You Can Skip
It’s just as helpful to know what not to bring.
You can usually leave behind:
- Bulky hard suitcases
- More outfits than you’ll realistically wear
- Heavy appliances you’ll rarely use
- Decorative items that just take up space
Start planning your trip today with Campervan Rental Shop!