Pre-Trip Essentials: Kangaroo Island

Preparation Timeline

Manage your tasks effectively with this guide.

Key Milestones

Follow these pre-departure steps for a smooth trip.

-6 Months Ahead

Passport Validity

Check validity for at least six months beyond your stay.

Visa Application

Apply for your Australian visa (ETA/eVisitor) early.

Ferry & Car Rental

Book Sealink ferry tickets and rental car, they book out fast.

Month Ahead

Finalize Accommodation

Confirm all bookings and check-in procedures.

Book Specific Tours

Secure tours (e.g., Seal Bay) and unique dining experiences.

Parks Pass & Flights

Purchase SA Parks Pass and reconfirm all flight bookings.

Week Ahead

Pack Your Bags

Use a detailed packing list. Consider Packing cubes for organization.

Download Offline Maps

Ensure offline maps of Kangaroo Island load to your phone.

Charge Electronics

Fully charge devices and Portable power banks.

Useful Advance Reservations

Secure these items well in advance, especially during peak season.

Essential Bookings

Sealink Ferry (essential if bringing a vehicle)
Rental Car (highly recommended for island travel)
Accommodation (secure lodging for busy periods)
Seal Bay Guided Beach Tour (pre-booking secures your spot)

Pre-Trip Insights & Home Prep

Gather knowledge and secure your home before departing.

Research Points

Review typical road conditions, including unsealed roads.
Familiarize yourself with bushfire safety protocols.
Research local produce and dining options.
Secure your home, lock doors and windows.

Detailed Preparation Checklist

Thorough planning leads to a relaxed journey.

In-depth Research

Understand island road conditions.
Know bushfire safety protocols.
Research local culinary experiences.
Be aware of wildlife driving hazards.

Home Security & Care

Secure all doors and windows.
Arrange for pet care if applicable.
Arrange for plant watering or house sitting.
Stop mail or newspaper delivery.

Important Information Sharing

Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary.
Provide emergency contact information.
Share travel insurance policy details.
Save digital copies to cloud storage.

Travel Insurance Recommendation

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation/interruption, and loss/theft of belongings.

Arrival & Orientation

These steps confirm a smooth arrival on Kangaroo Island.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
At Kingscote Airport
Collect luggage and proceed to car rental desks for pre-booked vehicle.
2
At Penneshaw Ferry Terminal
Drive off the ferry with your vehicle, or meet transfer/collect rental car as a foot passenger.
3
Sim Card Purchase
If needed, buy a local SIM card (Telstra for best coverage).

Orientation Strategies

Check-in at Accommodation
Drive directly to your lodging, check in, unpack, and settle.
Grocery Stop
Visit Drakes Foodland in Kingscote for groceries if self-catering.
Familiarize with Town
Take a short drive or walk around Kingscote or Penneshaw to see services.

Initial Logistics

Currency Exchange

Have some Australian Dollars (AUD) for small purchases. Credit cards are widely accepted.

A bit of cash is helpful for smaller businesses.

Essential Purchases

Purchase extra water and snacks for your car journeys.

Ensure your rental car has fuel upon collection.

Transport to Accommodation

Use your pre-booked rental car for independent travel.

Do not rely on hailing a taxi; pre-booking is important.

SIM Card Recommendation

Telstra generally offers the best mobile coverage across Kangaroo Island, especially in more remote areas. Consider this when choosing a local SIM provider.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure for a stress-free exit from Kangaroo Island.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase local produce (honey, wine, spirits) in advance.
Check airline carry-on and checked baggage restrictions for liquids.
If you have large items, consider shipping them from Kingscote Post office.
Keep your receipts for any applicable VAT refund procedures.

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive at Penneshaw Ferry Terminal 30 minutes before passenger departure.
Arrive 60 minutes early if taking a vehicle on the ferry.
Arrive at Kingscote Airport 60 minutes before your domestic flight.
Allow time to refuel your rental car before returning it.

Return Trip Final Checks

Ensure all personal belongings are accounted for.

Checklist for Departure Day

All personal belongings packed?
Nothing left behind in accommodation?
Current traffic conditions checked?
Onward travel plans from Adelaide confirmed?

Important Logistics

Return your rental car according to the company's instructions.
Return the vehicle at the agreed time to avoid extra charges.
Australia has a Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) for GST refund.
TRS is processed at major international airports, not on Kangaroo Island.

Digital Copies Reminder

Create a digital folder on your phone or in the cloud with all your booking confirmations.

Include passport copies and emergency contacts for peace of mind.

Pre-Trip Essentials