What to Pack for a Day Trip on the Sunshine Coast?

Two people admiring the view from a scenic overlook at sunset during their Montville Day Tour. Sunshine Coast Hinterland Highlights Tour: Discover Maleny and Montville

If you are to ask me about the best place to explore in Queensland, I would recommend the Sunshine Coast. The beautifully clean and clear beaches, stunning national parks and various avenues for nature exploration make the Sunshine Coast worth exploring. 

Above all, I find the humid subtropical climate of the region providing an added advantage. The mild winters and warm summers make it an ideal location for a day trip. 

However, I feel our comfort level is very important while exploring any place. If you are not physically or mentally comfortable, there is very little chance that you will enjoy the sights. Thus, what you pack for the day trip is very important.

What should I pack for a day trip on the Sunshine Coast?

  • Hiking boots24,800+ Hiking Boot Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images - iStock | Hiking, Wood shapes, Wood background

The first major attraction of the Sunshine Coast is the various walking trails in this region. A Google search will show Mount Coolum Walk and Noosa National Park Coastal Walk as a few of the major walking and hiking trails in this region. If you wish to go on a hike in any of these regions then, without doubt, you should carry a pair of hiking boots. 

The hiking boots you carry should provide a good grip and ankle support. The boot should be waterproof as sometimes the trail can get wet and slippery.

  • Hiking stick                                 77,000+ Walking Stick Hike Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images - iStock

When I went on my first hiking adventure, I assumed that trekking was quite an easy task. However, I quickly learned that this was not true. At some points, the hiking trail can be a little bit more complicated than others, with steep climbing or a descent. Soon, I realised that a hiking stick is a must-have. 

Of the different types of hiking sticks, an adjustable one is the best, as I can adjust the height depending on the condition of the hiking trail.

  • Other comfortable footwear

You will probably start your day trip wearing a pair of shoes. What if the trip involves a stopover at any of the beautiful beaches of the Sunshine Coast? You definitely cannot walk around in shoes. You should thus carry a pair of flip-flops along.

  • Lightweight cloth

You might wonder, ” It is a day trip. Then why should I pack clothes”? The answer is you might never know when you need it. You might feel like taking a dip in the beach and you definitely need a change of clothes. Or sometimes, if the walking trail is too slushy, your dress might get dirty. Then you need to change it. 

It is therefore always better to carry a pair of clothes when you go on a day trip. The type of clothes you carry should depend on the weather, with a light cotton dress for sunny days and warm clothes for colder days.

  • Sun protection accessories

252,900+ Sun Screen Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images - iStock | Sun protection, Sunscreen bottle, Applying sunscreen

If you are like me and enjoy sunbathing on the warm and sub-tropical weather of the Sunshine Coast, then I warn you a good sun protection is highly essential. A sunscreen that offers good protection from the UV rays is a must-have in your bag along with other sun protection accessories like a wide-brimmed hat, umbrella and protective sun glass.

  • Raincoat

If you are travelling during the rainy seasons of December to March, then a raincoat is a must-have. Make sure that the raincoat provides good coverage, including your leg.

  • Bug repellant

Bugs can be a nuisance, especially if you travel during the rainy season. You should thus carry bug repellants to avoid allergy and irritation.

  • Gadgets

Nowadays travelling without a phone charger is unimaginable. Make sure that you have packed the correct charger for your phone.  

  • Water and snacks

  • 97,100+ Water And Healthy Snacks Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images - iStock

Most tour packages offer lunch and snacks. But it would be a good idea to carry some on your own, especially if you are travelling with kids. 

  • Miscellaneous items

In addition to the above, it would be a good idea to carry a few other miscellaneous items like a plastic bag, toilet paper, a first aid kit, a clothing layer, and a knife. Also remember to carry your wallet with some liquid cash and your personal id cards. 

 

How to pack for a day trip to the Sunshine Coast?

  • It is best not to carry valuables like jewellery and expensive watches while going on a day trip. But if you are carrying one, you should tuck it in a corner of the backpack where it cannot be easily accessed. 
  • Your personal belongings like passport, money, and credit card should be placed in a wallet and kept tucked in a hidden spot like other valuables. You can keep a small change of money in the front pocket for easy purchase. 
  • In case you walk through the crowded areas of Sunshine Coast, which you most probably will, make sure to carry the backpack on your chest instead of hanging it on the back. 
  • If you have a large bottle of sunscreen or moisturiser, pour it into smaller bottles, as it can save space. 
  • Roll the lightweight clothes so that they can be tucked easily on some corners. 
  • Most backpacks will have a separate space for carrying bottles. It is best to place the bottles there instead of placing them inside the bag. 
  • In case you need a knife, you should carry it with the cover on. If you do not have a cover, wrap it up using multiple layers of newspaper. This will prevent the knife from piercing the bag. 

Conclusion

In my opinion, most people do not pay much attention to packing while going on a day trip. Even I was one among them. Since the food and other essentials are taken care of by the tour company, I would often neglect packing. 

But I soon realised that to make the most of any day trip, you should carry the basic items you need for the trip. This ensures that your trip remains comfortable and you get to enjoy to the fullest.

 

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