For some people, packing for a trip can be a stressful job, especially if you’re going to a place you’ve never been before. It’s important that you make sure you have packed everything you need before you leave to ensure you have the best adventure possible.
Fitzroy Island is an idyllic tropical Island getaway just off the coast of Cairns in Far North Queensland, surrounded by the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re planning on an extended holiday or just a day trip, the things that we have listed below are essential to pack in your luggage, in order to get the most out of your time on the Island.
Swimming Gear
Whether it’s scuba diving, snorkelling or simply enjoying the resort pool, a trip to Fitzroy Island is usually all about the water. So on the top of the list of things to pack should definitely be your swimmers (also known as bathers, togs, swimming cozzie, etc). You’ll probably find that you spend most of your days wearing your swimmers, so it might be a good idea to bring more than one set.
If you plan on doing some snorkelling it’s a good idea to bring your own snorkel gear (mask, snorkel and fins). However, if you don’t have a set of your own, then you can hire everything you need from the Fitzroy Island Sports Hub on the island. Goggles are also a handy accessory to throw in your suitcase to use in the resort pool or swimming in the shallow waters offshore.
All equipment needed for scuba diving can be hired on the Island.
Sun Protection
With all the time that you will be spending in the water and relaxing on the beach, it’s extremely important to have adequate sun protection. The sun in Australia is harsh and many a tourist can tell you from first-hand experience that it doesn’t take long out in the sun to start burning.
Be sure to pack a good SPF50+ sunscreen and apply it every morning before heading out for the day. It is also essential to re-apply throughout the day and after swimming. Zinc is also great on your nose and cheeks for added protection, especially on kids who tend to spend hours out in the water and playing on the sand.
A full brim hat is also a must for when you’re not swimming or snorkelling, as well as a good pair of UV protection sunglasses. For added protection, it is common for both adults and kids who are local to the area to wear ‘rashies’ (short- or long-sleeve swim tops) over their swimmers for another layer of protection from the sun.
Image Credit: broadsheet.com.au
Insect Repellent
While we’re on the topic of protection, another must-have is insect repellent. Australia is well known for its mozzies and it’s no different on Fitzroy Island. Generally, night time is when the mozzies are at their worst and having some insect repellent handy will ensure you can enjoy your balmy nights without getting eaten alive by these little pests.
The rainforest, with its warm, moist environment is also a hot spot for mozzies during the day, so if you decide to explore the walking tracks on the Island make sure you have your insect repellents handy.
Clothing and Shoes
What clothes to take can be one of the hardest decisions to make when packing for any trip. The beauty of heading off to Fitzroy Island is that you can leave the winter woollies behind. Far North Queensland is home to some of the best weather year round that Australia has to offer, and throughout the year the average daily temperatures on Fitzroy Island range from 19°C to just over 30°C.
Shorts, t-shirts and summery dresses made of light material such as cotton and silk will be ideal for your time on the Island. In winter the temperature at night can drop slightly, but even then you will only need some loose, long pants and a long sleeved top made of light material.
Flip-flops (otherwise known as ‘thongs’) are essential and are the go-to footwear for everyday use on the Island. For the more adventurous type, you may want to pack a pair of walking shoes or boots. Fitzroy Island has a number of walking tracks covering the Island varying in length and difficulty that give you some amazing views of the Island and the surrounding reef.
Camera
With so many exciting things to see and do a camera is a must-have on your trip to Fitzroy Island. Words alone will not be able to express to family and friends the beauty of the Island and the awesome adventures that were had.
From the pristine, palm-fringed beaches and turquoise waters, to the lush rainforest and cocktail sunsets, you’ll want to be sure to capture as many memories as you can during your stay.
Image Credit: freeimages.com
The items we’ve included here to add to your list when packing for your trip will ensure that you get the most out of your time on Fitzroy Island and can enjoy everything the Island has to offer in comfort. However, don’t get too stressed about forgetting the little things like sunscreen and insect repellent, as the Island General Store will have you covered.
