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What to Wear in Cairns: 5 Tips to Make You Stand Out on Trip

Traveloka Team

28 Jun 2024 - 4 min read

Located in the state of Queensland, Australia, Cairns is well known for its several key attractions such as Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, and Cairns Esplanade. No wonder this city successfully draws visitors from around the world. If you're planning to explore Cairns, you might wonder what to pack and what to wear to seamlessly blend with the local people and have no wardrobe malfunction. Fear not! This guide will help you decide what to wear in Cairns so you can enjoy every moment of your trip comfortably and stylishly.

1. Embrace the Tropical Climate

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Situated in the far north of Queensland, Cairns has a warm, tropical climate year-round. These pleasant seasons make it an ideal destination for those seeking sunshine and warmth. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the natural attractions.

So, while you’re packing clothes to visit Cairns, think light, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect each season in Cairns and how to dress accordingly:

Summer (December to February)

Weather: Hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C.

Clothing Tips: Opt for lightweight clothing such as cotton or linen. Think shorts, tank tops, sundresses, and flip-flops. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are must-haves to protect against the strong sun.

Autumn (March to May)

Weather: Warm with less humidity, temperatures between 21°C to 29°C.

Clothing Tips: Similar to summer, but you might want a light jacket for cooler evenings. Comfortable sandals or sneakers are great for walking around.

Winter (June to August)

Weather: Mild and pleasant, temperatures from 17°C to 26°C.

Clothing Tips: Light layers are your best bet. Think t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and perhaps a light sweater or jacket for early mornings and evenings.

Spring (September to November)

Weather: Warming up, with temperatures between 20°C to 29°C.

Clothing Tips: Similar to autumn. Keep it light and breathable. A mix of shorts, skirts, and light layers will keep you comfortable.

2. Beach and Reef Adventures

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Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, so you’ll likely be spending time in and around the water. Here’s what to pack for beach and reef activities if you plan to go to this popular attraction:

Swimwear: Pack a couple of swimsuits or bikinis. Quick-dry materials are a plus.

Cover-Ups: Lightweight cover-ups or sarongs are perfect for transitioning from the beach to a casual meal.

Reef Shoes: Protect your feet from coral and rocky areas with reef shoes.

Snorkeling Gear: If you prefer using your own gear, pack a mask and snorkel. Otherwise, these are usually provided on tours.

Rash Guard: A rash guard or swim shirt offers sun protection and can be handy if you’re snorkeling for extended periods.

3. Exploring the Rainforest

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The rainforests around Cairns, including the Daintree, are a must-see destination to explore. To make sure that you make the most of the visit, here’s the tips of what to wear for your jungle adventures:

Lightweight Clothing: Long sleeves and pants made of breathable fabric will protect you from insects and the sun.

Hiking Boots: Comfortable, sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip are essential.

Hat and Sunglasses: To shield you from the sun when the canopy cover is sparse.

Insect Repellent: Clothing treated with insect repellent or a good spray to keep the bugs at bay.

4. Casual and Evening Wear

Cairns is home to rich Indigenous cultural heritage. Visitors can learn about the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures through various cultural tours, art galleries, and museums. So, spare your wardrobe space to pack some casual outfits for cultural trips. After the sun sets, you might want to dress up a bit for dining out or nightlife:

Casual Outfits: Lightweight dresses, skirts, or nice shorts with a stylish top are perfect for casual outings.

Evening Wear: For dining out, opt for a smart-casual look. Men can wear chinos or nice shorts with a collared shirt, while women might choose a sundress or a skirt and blouse combo.

Comfortable Footwear: Stylish sandals or comfortable flats will keep you looking good without sacrificing comfort.

5. Accessories and Extras

An outfit isn't complete without the right accessories and extras. So, keep in mind to pack these essential accessories to complete your Cairns wardrobe:

Sunscreen: A high SPF sunscreen is a must. Reapply frequently, especially after swimming.

Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated in the tropical heat by bringing your own reusable water bottle. In Cairns, the tap water is generally safe to drink and so you can refill the water bottle anytime you want.

Small Backpack: It is perfect for day trips to carry your essentials.

Rain Jacket: A lightweight, packable rain jacket is handy, especially during the wet season.

Camera or Smartphone: It’s a must to capture all those amazing moments in Cairns.

Final Tips

Before you start packing, here are some additional tips to optimize your luggage storage without being too much:

Pack Light: You won’t need heavy clothing in Cairns, so keep your luggage light and easy to manage.

Laundry: Many accommodations offer laundry facilities, so you can refresh your clothes if needed.

Stay Comfortable: Prioritize comfort over fashion, especially when exploring outdoor attractions.

Flight to Cairns

Sun, 6 Jul 2025

AirAsia Indonesia

Singapore (SIN) to Cairns (CNS)

Start from SGD 505.48

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Sun, 6 Jul 2025

Singapore Airlines

Singapore (SIN) to Cairns (CNS)

Start from SGD 1,015.02

Book Now

Wed, 30 Jul 2025

AirAsia Indonesia

Bali / Denpasar (DPS) to Cairns (CNS)

Start from SGD 153.36

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Conclusion

With this guide, you'll be well-prepared for your Cairns adventure, ensuring you're comfortable and stylish no matter what activities you have planned. You’ll know exactly what to wear in Cairns to make the most of your trip.

While packing what to wear in Cairns for your next trip, explore the Traveloka app to find everything you need for your journey. By only accessing this all-in-one travel app on your smartphone, you can book your flight ticket, find the best hotels, and even discover more tourist attractions in Cairns seamlessly to elevate your holiday experience. At Traveloka, you can find many good deals that save extra money. Download Traveloka app now to travel in ease. Happy travels!