Backpack vs Suitcase: Which is Better for Australia?

Australia is BIG. From city laneways in Melbourne to barefoot island adventures in Queensland, your trip could involve trains, planes, buses, 4WDs, boats—and everything in between.

So how do you decide what to pack your stuff in? Backpack or suitcase for Australia?

Suitcase: 

Best for:

✅  Students staying in one city for months

✅  Urban travelers (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane)

✅  Those not planning to move around much

Pros: It’s easy to organize (no rummaging to find your socks), better for heavier items (books, full-size toiletries) and you can roll it (no back sweat).

Cons: Not ideal on gravel, sand, or hostel stairs, bulky to store in small hostel lockers, and it can be a pain on public transport or shared vans.

Pro Tip: If you’re using a suitcase, choose a soft-shell one with flexible compartments and not too massive—oversized hard cases scream “tourist panic pack.”

Backpack:

Best for:

✅  East Coast adventurers hopping from Sydney to Cairns

✅  Anyone doing overnight tours (Fraser Island, Whitsundays, Uluru)

✅  Budget travelers using hostels and buses

Pros: It’s easy to carry up stairs, onto boats, and across sand. It will fit in lockers, under hostel bunks, or on your lap. It keeps you mobile and hands-free to navigate google maps to your next spot.

Cons: Packing = Tetris. It’s harder to access stuff at the bottom and it can be heavy on your back if overpacked (aka backseat)

Pro Tip: Look for one with front-loading zips (not just top-load) and a padded hip belt. You’ll thank yourself later.

Or… Both?

Some travelers swear by a combo: A backpack or suitcase for your main stuff, and a small duffel bag or tote for weekend escapes in Australia.

Hot tip: Many overnight tours—like K’gari (Fraser Island), sailing the Whitsundays, or camping on Kangaroo Island or Uluru—require you to bring just a small overnight bag. You’ll usually leave your main luggage at your hostel or hotel, so it’s super handy to pack a foldable, compressible duffel in your gear. It takes up almost no space but saves you stress later.

Bonus Tip:
Even if you’re not joining a tour, hostels and hotels almost always offer free luggage storage. Whether you arrive early and can’t check in yet, or you’re checking out but catching a night bus later, just ask reception if they can store your bags. It’s rare they’ll say no—and it’ll make your day way easier.

Where to Buy a Backpack or Suitcase in Australia:

Realized halfway through your trip that you need something better? No worries—Australia has plenty of places to pick up a backpack or suitcase, whether you’re on a tight student budget or looking to invest in something long-term.

Budget-Friendly Options:

• Kmart – Great for cheap duffel bags, daypacks, and basic suitcases

• Decathlon – Sports and travel gear with solid quality for a good price

Mid-Range to Premium:

• Anaconda – Outdoor-focused store with durable travel packs, duffels, and accessories

• Kathmandu– Popular with backpackers; good quality bags, often on sale

If you want to chat with us about building a custom Australian itinerary, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re dedicated to creating the trip of your dreams and working within your budget, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your adventure just as you should.

And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @DundeeAdventure to find amazing deals!