Exploring Tasmania in a campervan gives you the freedom to experience the island’s breathtaking landscapes, coastlines, and wilderness at your own pace. Whether you’re setting out for a weekend getaway or an extended road trip, it’s essential to pack the right gear for a smooth and enjoyable adventure on this beautiful Australian island. Here’s a guide to packing essentials for your Tasmanian campervan journey.
Clothing for All Weather
Tasmanian weather can’t always be predicted; temperatures can rise and fall throughout the day. We’d advise that you bring clothes that can be layered when it gets colder and removed when it warms up.
- Under Layers: Thermal tops and bottoms help keep you warm on chilly mornings and throughout the night.
- Mid-Layers: Fleece jackets or sweaters keep you warm without being too bulky.
- Outer Layers: A waterproof and windproof jacket is essential for staying dry during sudden, unexpected downpours.
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots for trails, comfortable shoes for driving, and sandals for walking on the beach.
- Accessories: A beanie, gloves, and a scarf for colder regions, plus a sun hat and sunglasses for protection against the harmful effects of ultra-violet radiation.
Kitchen & Cooking Supplies
Our campervans come equipped with a fully functional kitchen, including a sink, stove, microwave, and fridge, where you can prepare delicious meals with fresh Tasmanian produce. To make your cooking experience even more convenient, consider bringing the following items:
- Cookware: A lightweight pot, pan, cutting board, and knife for meal prep.
- Reusable Plates & Utensils: Opt for eco-friendly, reusable options to minimise waste and do your bit for the planet.
- Food Storage Containers: Ideal for storing leftovers or packing snacks to take with you on hikes.
- Dishwashing Supplies: Biodegradable soap, a sponge, and a cloth for drying the dishes.
Sleeping & Comfort Items
It’s important to get a good night’s sleep so you have enough energy to enjoy everything the island has to offer. Don’t forget to bring:
- Sleeping Bags: Choose a good-quality sleeping bag suited for Tasmania’s fluctuating temperatures.
- Pillows & Blankets: For added comfort, bring a cosy pillow and an extra blanket.
- Eye Mask & Earplugs: Helpful if you’re a light sleeper camping in highly populated areas.
Navigation & Safety Equipment
Getting off the beaten path is part of the fun, but it’s important to be prepared for any situation.
- Maps & GPS: Mobile signals can be temperamental or non-existent in remote areas, so carry a physical map or download an app that can be accessed offline.
- First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications.
- Torch & Headlamp: Essential for nighttime visibility, especially at remote campsites.
- Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife: Handy for minor repairs and general use.
- Fire Extinguisher: Essential for emergencies, especially in areas prone to bushfires.
Outdoor Gear for Activities
Make the most of your time in Tasmania by packing the following essentials:
- Hiking Gear: A backpack, poles for walking and mountain hiking, and a refillable water bottle for exploring national parks and the wilderness.
- Swimwear & Towel: Ideal for a dip in the sea, a waterfall swim, or a visit to a thermal pool.
- Binoculars: Perfect for spotting the island’s unique wildlife, including wombats on Cradle Mountain and seabirds on Bruny Island.
- Camping Chairs & Table: Create a space to relax or eat outdoors while admiring the spectacular landscape.
- Fishing Gear: If you want to catch fresh fish from Tasmania’s crystal-clear waters.
Tech & Entertainment
While having a digital detox is part of being part of nature, you might want to bring some tech to unwind after a hike or adrenaline-fueled activity.
- Power Bank & Car Charger: Keep your devices powered for easy navigation and capturing memories.
- Camera or Smartphone: Tasmania’s landscapes are incredibly photogenic, so you’ll want to bring a good camera or phone. You can also keep updated with weather forecasts, road closures, and anything else that might affect your trip.
- Books & Travel Guides: Perfect for winding down at night or learning about the places you visit.
- Bluetooth Speaker: Enjoy your favourite music while you drive around the island.
Final Tips for Packing Your Campervan
- Plan for Remote Areas: Some regions, such as the Tarkine Wilderness, have limited access to supplies, so we advise that you stock up before heading off the beaten track.
- Keep Essentials Accessible: Store frequently used items like snacks, water, and maps within easy reach. Don’t forget to bring them with you during your ventures away from the campervan.
- Pack Light but Smart: Space is limited in a campervan, so prioritise multi-use items and pack efficiently.
- Check Weather Forecasts: Knowing the conditions ahead of time helps you bring the appropriate gear.
The last thing you want on your Tasmanian adventure is to find yourself unprepared for its rapidly changing weather, without a power bank to keep your phone charged, or missing essential utensils for enjoying your own-cooked meals. By packing wisely with your campervan hire, you’ll be fully prepared to enjoy your time on the island.
Follow this checklist to ensure you pack your campervan with the correct gear!
