Best Gear to Pack and Places to Go This Australia Day 2026
Best Gear to Pack and Places to Go This Australia Day 2026
Australia Day is about coming together with mates, soaking up the sunshine, and celebrating everything that makes our country special. Whether you’re camping in the bush, travelling to the coast, or setting up the BBQ at home, having the right Australia Day gear and knowing where to go can make your weekend one to remember.
Here’s your ultimate guide to what to pack, where to travel, and how to make the most of the great outdoors this Australia Day 2026.
1. Hit the Beach: Pack for Sun, Sand, and Surf
If you’re planning to spend Australia Day by the water, you’ll need gear that can handle the sun, salt, and sea breeze.
Top Gear to Pack:
- Beach Shelter or Gazebo: : A UV-resistant beach shelter from Oztent or a sturdy gazebo from Oztrail gives you shade that lasts all day.
- Cooler or Portable Fridge: Keep drinks icy cold and food fresh with a Dometic or Enerdrive 12V fridge.
- Beach Chairs & Annexe Floor Matting: Relax in comfort with sturdy chairs and mats from Oztent or Oztrail.
- Hats: Stay protected with trusted sun care and keep cool with hats from Nomad Design or Black Magic Tackle.
Best Spots to Visit:
- Whitehaven Beach (QLD) – soft sand and clear water for an easy, breezy day.
- Cottesloe Beach (WA) – perfect for swimming, food, and a sunset BBQ.
- Noosa Main Beach (QLD) – ideal for families, paddle boarding, and fun in the surf.
- Glenelg Beach (SA) – a lively setting packed with cafés and people-watching.
Pro tip: Post your setup on Instagram and tag your favourite Outback Equipment gear for a chance to be featured!
2. Go Bush: Camping and 4WD Adventures
For those who love open skies and starry nights, a camping trip is the ultimate way to celebrate.
Top Gear to Pack:
- Camping Tent: A reliable tent from OZtrail or Darche so you stay cool on warm nights.
- Camping Chairs & Table: Set up a comfy camp space with chairs and tables from OZtrail or Coleman.
- 270-Degree Awning: Get wide shade around your vehicle with a 270 awning from Outback Tourer or Tuff Terrain.
- Camping Lights & Portable Power: Light up your site with Nebo camping LED Lights and keep devices running with power gear from Enerdrive.
- Camp Oven or Portable BBQ: Cook great food with a camp oven or compact BBQ from Campfire, or Camp Chef.
Best National Parks to Explore:
- Fraser Island / K’gari (QLD) – 4WD paradise with freshwater lakes and stunning wildlife.
- Grampians National Park (VIC) – incredible hikes and scenic views.
- Cape Range National Park (WA) – a warm and open landscape where desert meets sea.
- Barrington Tops (NSW) – lush trails, cool mountain air, and plenty of local wildlife.
Pro tip: Check park alerts before travelling, and always pack sunscreen and essential outdoor gear for changing weather.
3. Cast a Line: Fishing and Marine Adventures
If you love water activities, Australia Day is a great excuse to get out on the boat or cast a line from shore.
Top Gear to Pack:
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Fishing Rods & Tackle Box: Grab a rod and tackle setup from Jarvis Walker or Nomad Design to stay ready for action.
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Bait Accessories & Bait Pumps: Pick a sturdy bucket or pump from Sant Marine for easy live-bait collecting.
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Dry Bags & Waterproof Storage: Keep your gear safe with dry bags from Sea to Summit.
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Life Jackets: Stay prepared with PFDs from Response or Watersnake for every marine trip.
Best Fishing Spots:
- Moreton Bay (QLD) – great for families and people learning to fish.
- Port Stephens (NSW) – a warm and scenic area for boating and dolphin watching.
- Port Lincoln (SA) – famous for tuna, squid, and adventure tours.
- Swan River (WA) – calm waters and easy access for everyone.
Pro tip: Take photos of your catch and tag #OutbackEquipment on Instagram — we love seeing your fishing adventures!
4. Backyard BBQs: Celebrate at Home
You don’t have to travel far for a great celebration. With the right outdoor gear, your backyard or local park can be the perfect setting.
Top Gear to Pack:
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Portable BBQ or Grill: Cook up a feast with a compact grill from nomadiQ or Gasmate.
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Cooler or Portable Fridge: Keep everything chilled with a cooler or 12V fridge from Dometic or Evakool.
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Folding Table & Chairs: Set up a comfy space with chairs and tables from OZtrail or Companion.
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Lighting & Sleeping Gear: Light up the night with LED gear from Hardkorr and stay warm with camping sleeping gear from Darche.
Pro tip: Keep the setting open and easy for people to mingle. Good company makes every Australia Day activity better.
5. Family-Friendly Day Trips
If you’ve only got one day off, make it count with a short camp or travel adventure.
Best Quick Escapes:
- Tamborine Mountain (QLD) – great food, easy hikes, and local wildlife encounters.
- Royal National Park (NSW) – boardwalk trails, beaches, and picnic spots close to the city.
- Torquay (VIC) – surf, swim, and explore the start of the Great Ocean Road.
- Rottnest Island (WA) – meet quokkas and enjoy a fun day on the bikes.
Pack light, stay cool, and make it a day to remember with the whole family.
6. Gear Up with Outback Equipment
Wherever you’re heading this Australia Day, make sure you’re ready with the right camping gear, 4WD accessories, and outdoor essentials. From portable fridges and gazebos to fishing gear and tents, Outback Equipment has everything you need to explore the great outdoors.
Join GEAR’d and Save with Mates’ Rates
Love getting a good deal on quality outdoor gear? Join GEAR’d, Outback Equipment’s free loyalty program, and unlock exclusive Mates’ Rates, early sale access, and earn GEAR'd points every time you shop.
It’s easy, free, and open to everyone, just sign up and start saving before your next camping trip.
Australia Day is the perfect time to celebrate the outdoors, good food, and time with friends and family. Pack smart, plan ahead, and enjoy every warm moment wherever you choose to spend the day.
From everyone at Outback Equipment, have a happy, safe, and adventure-filled Australia Day
