Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia? If you're planning to go to Canberra, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

Based on the climate and weather in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Canberra, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia by month

January

January for Canberra is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Australia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Canberra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the charming St John the Baptist Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Australian National Botanic Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February for Canberra is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Australia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Canberra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you are going to go to the charming St John the Baptist Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Australian National Botanic Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

If you vacation in Canberra during March, you might see that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Australia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Canberra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to choose the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the charming St John the Baptist Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Australian National Botanic Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you vacation in Canberra during April, you are likely to find that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Australia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Canberra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the charming St John the Baptist Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Australian National Botanic Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you are traveling to Canberra in May, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Australia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Canberra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the charming St John the Baptist Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Australian National Botanic Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in Canberra can be brisk. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains or snows regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Australia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Canberra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to find the right kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to go to the charming St John the Baptist Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Australian National Botanic Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you vacation in Canberra during July, you may notice that it is cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain or snow/sleet a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Australia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Canberra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you are going to go to the charming St John the Baptist Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Australian National Botanic Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you visit Canberra during August, you might see that it can be very chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain or snow/sleet about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Australia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Canberra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are going to go to the charming St John the Baptist Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Australian National Botanic Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

Traveling to Canberra in September, you will notice that it is crisp. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Australia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Canberra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the charming St John the Baptist Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Australian National Botanic Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Canberra is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Australia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Canberra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you are going to go to the charming St John the Baptist Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Australian National Botanic Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November for Canberra is mild. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Australia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Canberra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to choose the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you are going to go to the charming St John the Baptist Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Australian National Botanic Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Canberra is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) to high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Australia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Canberra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the charming St John the Baptist Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Australian National Botanic Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia

Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves culture, history, and natural beauty. Located in the Australian Capital Territory, Canberra is home to some of the most iconic tourist attractions in the country. Here are the top tourist attractions you should add to your itinerary when visiting Canberra, Australia.

1. Australian War Memorial: The Australian War Memorial is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Canberra. This museum and memorial honors those who have served and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping activities. A visit to this museum enables you to learn about Australia’s military history and recognize the sacrifices of those who fought for their country.

2. Parliament House: Parliament House is a symbol of Australia’s democracy and the center of the country’s political activities. It features several unique architectural and design elements, including a grass-topped roof and an extensive art collection. Visitors can take guided tours of Parliament House daily and observe parliamentary proceedings when they are in session.

3. National Gallery of Australia: The National Gallery of Australia is an excellent place to explore Australia’s art history. It houses an extensive collection of Australian and international art, including works by Australian Indigenous artists. The gallery’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and contemporary art installations.

4. Mount Ainslie: For breathtaking views of Canberra and its environs, climb up Mount Ainslie. The mountain is located just east of the city center and offers visitors panoramic views of Canberra and the surrounding countryside.

5. Australian National Botanic Gardens: The Australian National Botanic Gardens is a 90-acre garden that showcases the country’s unique flora and fauna. Visitors can explore a variety of habitats, from rainforests to alpine meadows, and learn about the plants and animals that thrive in Australia’s varied landscapes.

6. National Museum of Australia: The National Museum of Australia is an excellent place to learn about Australia’s past, present, and future. The museum features interactive exhibits that showcase Australia’s history, culture, and natural resources. Visitors can watch films, participate in hands-on activities and learn about various topics, including colonization, nature, and art.

7. Canberra Walks: Canberra is an excellent destination for walking enthusiasts, thanks to its beautiful parks, reserves, and walking trails. Visitors can take leisurely strolls around Lake Burley Griffin or explore the Australian Alps Walking Track, which is over 600 km long.

These are just a few of the top tourist attractions in Canberra, Australia. The city offers plenty of attractions, from museums and galleries to outdoor activities and events, that cater to visitors of different interests and preferences. Whether you are a history buff, art lover, nature enthusiast or sports enthusiast, Canberra has something for you.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Fuxian, China, Bingley, England, United Kingdom, Derby, England, United Kingdom, Miramichi, New Brunswick, Canada, Xàbia, Spain, Faxe, Denmark, Reedley, California, United States of America, Changshu, China, Southwestern Quebec, Quebec, Canada, Abuyog, Philippines, and 100 Mile House, British Columbia, Canada.