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What to Pack for Lord Howe Island

What to Pack for Lord Howe Island

Lord Howe Island Australia Travel Guide

Clothing for Warm Seasons

For Summer (Dec-Feb), pack lightweight, breathable clothing like cotton and linen. Include shorts, t-shirts, and plenty of Swimwear.

Layering for Evenings

  • A Light jacket or long-sleeved shirt offers warmth as temperatures cool.
  • It also provides sun protection during the day.
  • For Autumn/Spring (Mar-May, Sep-Nov), pack similar items but add warmer layers for unexpected showers or breezy conditions.

Clothing for Cooler Seasons

Warmer layers are needed for Winter (June-August). Pack fleece jackets, wool sweaters, and trousers.

Rain and Wind Protection

Footwear Recommendations

Water Shoes/Reef Booties

These are for walking on coral, rocky beaches, and in the lagoon. They protect your feet and provide grip. Options include Speedo Men's Surfwalker Pro 3.0 Water Shoes.

Protects from sharp objects.

Comfortable Walking Shoes/Sandals

For everyday wear and easy walks around the island. Comfortable sandals like Birkenstock Arizona Sandals work well. Comfortable walking shoes are good for general exploration.

Good for daily use and not heavy walks.

Hiking Boots

Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good grip and ankle support are mandatory for the Mount Gower trek. Alternatives include Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots. They provide grip and stability on uneven terrain.

Essential for challenging trails.

Essential Travel Documents

Documents Checklist

Careful organization of your travel documents helps ensure a stress-free trip. Keep both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport and visa documentation: Carry your valid passport and a printout or digital copy of your Australian visa grant notification.
  • Your travel insurance plan info: Have your policy number and emergency contact details for your insurer readily available.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation: A record of routine vaccinations is a wise precaution. If you have medical conditions, carry relevant medical letters.
  • International driving permit: Not generally needed on the island itself as tourist renting a car is not permitted.
  • Hard copies and electronic copies of bookings: Include flight itineraries, accommodation bookings, and tour confirmations.
  • Emergency contact information: Compile a list of essential phone numbers, including family, doctor, and your country's embassy in Australia.
  • Student/senior/press IDs: Not widely applicable on Lord Howe Island, but useful not on an island Australia.
  • Organize all your important your documents inside a secure, accessible Travel wallet. Use cloud storage for digital backups.

Technology & Connectivity

Power & Mobile

Australia functions on 230V at 50Hz, using Type I sockets (three flat pins). A Universal travel adapter is needed. Most modern smartphones are compatible with Australian cell phone networks.

SIM Card Options

  • Purchase Australian SIM cards (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone) on the mainland.
  • Telstra generally offers the best coverage, though it can still be limited on the island. Optus and Vodafone have very limited or no coverage.
  • Consider an International eSIM like Airalo if your cell phone supports it, but verify Lord Howe Island coverage.

Photography & Power

A Waterproof camera is highly recommended for underwater life (e.g., GoPro HERO12 Black or Olympus Tough TG-6). Check drone regulations with the Lord Howe Island Board before flying. They are generally discouraged or prohibited.

Essential Accessories

Digital Preparedness

Offline Maps

Download Google Maps or Maps.me for Lord Howe Island for offline use. Mobile data can be unreliable across the island.

VPN Services

Consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing, especially on public Wi-Fi. B&H Photo Video is a good source for electronics.

Data Backup

Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) for pictures and papers. A Small external hard drive or USB provides additional backup.

Health & Comfort Packing

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit makes a difference for minor illnesses and environmental factors.

Contents for Island Travel

Medications & Hygiene

Carry prescription medications in original packaging with labels. A doctor's letter for controlled substances or large quantities is good.

Over-the-Counter & Personal Items

Special Health Needs

Motion Sickness

  • Relevant for boat trips and the short flight to the island.
  • The flight can occasionally be bumpy.
  • Lord Howe Island does not have significant altitude, so there's no risk of altitude sickness.

Water & Hygiene Items

  • A Personal water filter bottle can be beneficial for hiking or extra caution.
  • Feminine hygiene products may have limited selection.
  • Bring specific brands of toiletries you prefer; island general store has limited variety and higher prices.

Activity-Specific Gear

Hiking Essentials

A comfortable Daypack is for carrying water, snacks, and layers. A Water bladder or multiple water bottles are important.

Snorkeling & Diving

Bring your own Mask, snorkel, and fins if you prefer personal gear. Otherwise, rent locally.

Birdwatching & Protection

Bring Binoculars like Vortex Optics Diamondback for distant birds. A field guide to Australian birds helps with identification.

Rent vs. Bring Gear

Good to Rent

  • Snorkel and fin sets are readily available from local operators.
  • Wetsuits (if diving), kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are for rent.
  • Fishing gear can be rented. Quality is generally good.
  • Renting saves luggage space and hassle.

Good to Bring

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Beyond the basics, a few other items add to your comfort and security on Lord Howe Island.

Travel Comfort Items

Island Specifics & Essentials

Be prepared for limited phone reception and internet. Download offline maps and consider a digital detox for a full island experience.

Reusable & Specific Items

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Reusable Coffee Cup

For your daily brew on the go.

Reusable Cutlery Set

Good for picnics and takeaways.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Minimizes single-use plastics.

Other Specific Needs

Essential for Comfort

  • Pack a Compact first aid kit tailored to island conditions.
  • Bring sun and insect protection.
  • A good book is for quiet evenings.

Items to Buy on Mainland

  • Specialty food products or specific dietary products.
  • Specific medications or high-quality outdoor gear.
  • Specific brands of toiletries, sunscreens, and insect repellents, which could be more expensive or limited on the island.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light, quick-drying layers. This helps adapt to temperature changes and participate in various activities without excess luggage.

Be prepared for limited phone reception and internet. Download offline maps and plan for a digital detox to fully experience the island.