What to pack for winter

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

This isn’t to say that the sun doesn’t shine – mornings in winter can be sunny, crisp and mesmerizingly still. But come back in the afternoon (or half an hour) and it’ll often be a different scene. Sometimes it even snows.

But 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. You can warm up in front of a hotel fire later on, promise.

In the city

Escape the mainland mayhem and revel in Tasmania's urban virtues. Along with a ubiquitous 'Tassie tuxedo' (puffer jacket), here's what you'll need on the streets: 

• 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 tourists have less fun. Go for something lightweight so you can carry it around and pack it away.
• Comfy clothes and shoes:  Slow down and check out the architecture: comfort is a must when meandering around Tasmania's cities.
• Water bottle:  Keeps you hydrated and saves you from having to buy one.
• Backpack:  Keeps your snacks handy, with space for shopping.
• Reusable coffee cup:  The coffee in Tasmania is great, but so is the environment.
• Sunscreen:  This is Australia, after all.
• That book you've been meaning to read:  Cosy up by the fire in the pub, hotel, B&B...

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 (you know it makes sense).

• Walking boots:  Tasmania’s trails can get wet and muddy.
• Thick socks:  Forget the flimsy office versions and get serious.
• 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, you know the drill.
• Thermals:  There aren’t many clothes shops in the bush, and you can always take them off if you get too toasty.
• Broad-brimmed hat:  Sunproof and rainproof – and you’ll feel like Indiana Jones.
• 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.

Party prone

Off Season is festival season, with plenty of ways to keep warm and safe on a long winter night.

• Snazzy outfits:  It’s not where you go, it’s how you look when you get there.
• Dancing shoes:  Yes, some events can get a little silly. Be prepared to boogie.
• Hair to let down:  Tasmania is big on public partying.
• Your phone:  Let your mates know what they’re missing. #DiscoverTasmania @tasmania
• Rideshare app:  Attached to your phone. You’ll need to get to bed eventually.
• Your friend’s number written on your hand:  For when you lose your phone (and your friend).
• Water bottle:  Hydrated revellers are happy revellers.
• An open mind:  Expect the unexpected. It is the Off Season, after all.

OK, let's go.