Moving to Australia in 2026? Don't Pack Without Watching This

Packing Advice for Students Moving from India to Australia

Priyanka Saluja’s main advice is to pack light. Your accommodation may change, and many everyday items are readily available in Australia.

Documents

• Carry your passport and a few printed copies of your visa.
• Keep academic certificates and transcripts together in a file. Priyanka says she rarely needed hers but recommends bringing them.
• Print your health-insurance membership details and keep them handy.
• Bring prescriptions for any medicines you rely on.
• Bring your Indian driver’s licence if you may want to drive later. It may help when transferring to an Australian licence, subject to tests.

Electronics

• If you plan to buy a new laptop or other electronics, Priyanka recommends waiting until you arrive.
• Bring a small, lightweight universal travel adapter for Indian devices and chargers.
• Pack headphones you already own if they’ll be useful during the flight and in everyday life.

Food and Kitchen Items

• Declare food items on the arrival card, including snacks, nuts, seeds, and homemade food.
• You don’t need to bring lots of spices or groceries. Indian stores and some major supermarkets carry many familiar items.
• For the first few days, consider bringing a small supply of salt and pepper, instant noodles, and ready-to-eat meals such as Haldiram’s packets.
• A pressure cooker is the main kitchen item Priyanka suggests considering, as she finds it useful and relatively expensive in Australia.
• Skip bulky or unnecessary cookware, plates, and utensils. Start with a few basics and buy more locally.

Clothing and Footwear

• Pack a small selection of everyday basics: T-shirts or tops, trousers, sleepwear, a few shirts, and essential undergarments.
• Bring at most one or two jackets; Priyanka suggests buying suitable outerwear in Australia. For February arrivals, she describes the weather as relatively mild and breezy.
• Bedding, towels beyond perhaps one, and swimwear can be bought locally.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes for your first few days while you get oriented, plus slippers or flip-flops for home.

Places and Products Mentioned

Coles, Woolworths, Kmart, Big W, Officeworks, Indian grocery stores, a pressure cooker, a universal adapter, Haldiram’s ready-to-eat meals, and Maggi.

Speaker: Priyanka Saluja