What to pack
for winter
in Tasmania

Whether you’re here for the city, the wilderness or the festivals, Tasmania’s winter weather can get a little…chilly. 

That's not to say that the sun doesn’t shine – mornings in winter are usually sunny, crisp and mesmerizingly still. But come back in the afternoon (or half an hour) and it can be a different scene. Sometimes it even snows.

Don’t let the weather get you down: the Off Season is when you can avoid the crowds and meet the real Tasmania. Just rug up and come properly equipped for the winter weather. You can warm up in front of the hotel fire later on, promise.

In the city

Escape the mainland mayhem and revel in Tasmania's urban virtues. Along with local favourite the 'Tassie tuxedo' (puffer jacket), here's what you'll need to pack for your city adventure: 

• Download the official Discover Tasmania app:  Hit the ground running. Don’t forget your phone charger.
• Woollen beanie:  Accessorise with a scarf, why don't you? And some gloves for good measure.
• Rainwear:  Soggy visitors have less fun. Go for something lightweight so you can carry it around.
• Comfy clothes and shoes:  Comfort is a must when meandering around Tasmania's cities.
• Water bottle:  You'll find lots of public refill stations in major cities.
• Backpack:  Keep your snacks handy, with space for shopping.
• Reusable coffee cup:  The coffee in Tasmania is great, but so is the environment.
• That book you've been meaning to read:  Cosy up by the fire in the pub, hotel, B&B...you know the drill.

Into the wild

Venturing into Tasmania’s winter wilderness is a soul-enriching experience – but like every good scout, be prepared and put safety first. Choose walks appropriate for your fitness level; bring equipment and gear for all weather conditions; use the provided logbooks to record your plans; let someone know where you’re going and avoid walking alone.  

It’s important to check the weather, monitor fire and flood conditions and stay up to date on emergency alerts.

Before you visit a national park in Tasmania, make sure you read this essential information. And remember to embrace the ‘Leave No Trace’ ideology.

• Walking boots:  Tasmania’s trails can get wet and muddy.
• Thick socks:  Forget the flimsy office versions and get serious. Wool, possum merino and waterproof are all great options.
• Waterproof outerwear:  The brighter the better: hi-vis means you’re easy to spot if things go south.
• Water bottle:  It may be pristine wilderness, but no one really wants to drink the rivers.
• Sunscreen:  Even when it’s not sunny…yada, yada. The UV is low in winter, but if you're outside for a long time it's worth slip, slop, slapping.
• Thermals:  There aren’t many clothes shops in the bush, and you can always take them off if you get too toasty.
• Binoculars:  The local wildlife doesn’t like to get too close.
• National Parks pass:  If you don’t have one, they won’t let you into some of the best bits. Get your parks pass here.

...And for the more intrepid

• Compass:  Phones lose signal pretty quickly in wilderness areas and can’t be relied on.
• Wristwatch:  Go old school: if your phone dies, so does your timekeeping.
• Torch:  Magical superpowers: see in the dark.
• Satellite phone / personal locator beacon (PLB):  So someone can find you if you're MIA.
• Paper maps:  Find your way, sans battery. Best paired with a compass.
• EpiPens:  If you have severe allergies, you may need more than one shot while you wait for help to arrive, so bring a couple.
• Lighter:  Fire = warmth = survival.
• Poo trowel:  Head 100m off-track and bury your business 15–20cm deep (including toilet paper).
• First-aid kit:  No brainer.