The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most beautiful drives, 243 kms of Victoria’s rugged coastline. Whether you’re planning a road trip, a Great Ocean Road Tour, a Great Ocean Road Sunset Tour or a longer adventure, packing the right gear will make for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s what to bring to the Great Ocean Road.
Contents
1. Clothing Essentials
Layers
- The weather on the Great Ocean Road can be hit and miss, so pack layers.
- A lightweight, breathable top for daytime.
- A warm fleece or jacket for cooler evenings.
- A waterproof windbreaker or rain jacket, as rain can pop up unexpectedly.
- Be prepared for rough weather especially around Port Campbell National Park and Cape Otway.
Footwear
- Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for national parks and lookouts.
- Flip flops or sandals for beach stops at Johanna Beach, Wreck Beach or Milanesia Beach.
Sun Protection
- A broad brimmed hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- High SPF sunscreen for sunburn, especially in seaside towns like Port Fairy or Apollo Bay.
2. Travel Essentials
- A fully charged smartphone with Google Maps or an offline road map.
- A power bank or portable charger.
- A physical map as a backup (mobile reception can be patchy in some areas, especially near Lavers Hill and the inland route).
Camera & Accessories
- A good camera or a smartphone with a good camera.
- A tripod for sunset shots at the Twelve Apostles Tour or London Bridge.
Cash & Cards
- Some towns may have limited card facilities so it’s good to carry some cash.
- Fuel stations and remote cafes may not have contactless.
3. Food & Drinks
- A refillable water bottle.
- Snacks like granola bars, nuts, fruits.
- A small cooler or esky if you have perishable food.
- Coffee or tea in a thermos.
- Drinkable water supply for longer stretches with no visitor centres.
4. Outdoor & Adventure Gear
- Bring a picnic blanket if you’re stopping at a spot like Blanket Bay.
- Bring a beach towel and swimwear if you want to dip at Apollo Bay, Loch Ard Gorge, or Station Beach.
- Binoculars for koalas at Cape Otway Lightstation and whales near Port Campbell National Park.
- A torch or flashlight for night time or camping.
- Check the tides before going to Wreck Beach so you’re not caught by the swell.
5. First Aid & Safety Items
- A basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers.
- Insect repellent (summer months near Otway National Park).
- Motion sickness tablets if you get car sick on the coastal roads.
- Emergency contacts and travel insurance.
- Awareness of disability accessibility standards including visual impairment friendly routes at Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve.
6. Miscellaneous Extras
- A notebook or travel journal to document your adventure.
- A reusable shopping bag for any souvenirs from Apollo Bay Visitor Information Centre or Port Fairy Lighthouse.
- A small umbrella in case of unexpected rain showers.
- A playlist or audiobook for entertainment on long stretches of road.
- A road trip gear list including Jackery Solar Generators for road trips.
- Alternative accommodation options in western towns near Anglesea, Erskine Falls, or Castle Cove.
- A commitment to quality travel experiences by planning travel dates ahead.
- Adequate levels of preparation, including checking for alternative beach routes if accessibility is a concern.
- Asta Gear for outdoor adventure and adequate noise level management for camping trips.
- Ratpack Travel for itinerary recommendations.
Final Tips for Packing
- When to visit the Great Ocean Road depends on your preference but spring and autumn are the best with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Check the weather forecast before you leave and adjust your packing list accordingly especially if heavy rain is expected.
- Plan for pit stops and fuel refills as service stations can be scarce in some areas.
- Leave no trace – always dispose of rubbish responsibly and respect nature.
By following this packing list you’ll be ready for an epic journey along the Great Ocean Road. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, admiring limestone cliffs or relaxing on golden beaches having the right gear will make your trip stress-free and memorable.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit the Great Ocean Road?
Best time to visit: Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are the best times with mild weather and fewer tourists.
Do I need 4WD for the Great Ocean Road?
No, a standard car is fine, as the road is sealed. But if you plan to go off-road or into national parks, a 4WD may be useful.
Are there petrol stations along the Great Ocean Road?
Yes, but they can be scarce in some areas. Fill up in the larger towns like Torquay, Apollo Bay and Port Campbell.
Can I swim at the beaches along the Great Ocean Road?
Yes, but always check the local signs and be aware of ocean swells, especially at unpatrolled beaches.
What are the must-see stops on a Great Ocean Road Tour?
Key stops include the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, Port Campbell National Park, and Cape Otway Lighthouse.
