Late summer in Victoria, Australia, offers the perfect opportunity to escape into the great outdoors as long as you pack a waterproof hooded jacket. Because Victoria's weather can change so rapidly, not having the appropriate outerwear can easily ruin camping trips.  Whether you're a seasoned camper or a novice looking to embark on your first camping trip, here are the top five places to camp in Victoria this summer, plus what to wear at each location.

Camping in Wilsons Promontory National Park Needs a Rainbird Waterproof Jacket

Why it’s Great: Wilsons Promontory, affectionately known as "The Prom," is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts located in Gippsland. Its geological beauty is breathtaking as it rests atop an immense granite ridge that surged upward through the frigid waters of Bass Strait. It offers a diverse wilderness landscape including cliffs, hills, mountains, valleys, tidal rivers, sand dunes, and magnificent views.

Where to camp: There are countless camping options at The Prom. One of the primary campsites in Wilsons Promontory, Stockyards, is close to the entrance. The most popular campsite though, Tidal River Campground is an extra 35 kilometers drive deeper into the park.

What to wear: Wilson’s Prom is coastal and as far south as you can get, so it can get chilly even in Summer. In January and February, opt for lightweight, breathable, waterproof raincoats that allow for layering underneath. For families camping together, don't forget the kids. Bring a colourful children's waterproof jacket Australia to ensure your little one stays visible and extra dry during your adventure.

During the other Summer months, opt for thicker, waterproof jackets to give you extra warmth - you’ll need it, especially at night.

Lyra Parka - Black

Camping in the Grampians National Park Requires a Melbourne Puffer Jacket

Why it’s great: For those seeking adventure amidst an inland rugged landscape, Grampians National Park is the ideal destination. Just a few hours' drive from Melbourne, this iconic park features towering sandstone mountains, cascading waterfalls, and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites. Our top tip: Don’t miss a refreshing dip in the Venus Baths, located in Stony Creek. 

Where to camp: The Grampians National Park is vast, spanning around 1,600 km2, making camping options seemingly endless. Here are a few favourites:

• Borough Huts Campground, nestled in the serene Grampians, provides a cosy retreat for nature lovers. It offers basic amenities including fire pits, drop toilets, and picnic tables. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, it offers an ideal setting for hiking and wildlife observation, where encounters with kangaroos and kookaburras are common.
• Kalymna Falls Campground offers a breathtaking tranquil and scenic haven for nature enthusiasts, featuring well-spaced campsites and fire pits in the serene surroundings of the Grampians. While the campground offers basic amenities, including a small car park, it doesn't offer to individual pitches, featuring only five camping platforms. This makes it one of the smaller, more exclusive camping options in the Grampians.

Tip: The campgrounds are managed by Parks Victoria, so check their website before you travel.

Camping on Phillip Island Calls for a Windproof and Waterproof Hooded Jacket

What to pack: Located inland, the Grampians can get cold at night and hold the chilly weather throughout the day. For chilly mornings and evenings, consider packing a Melbourne puffer jacket that easily rolls into your pack. As the Grampians campsites are both basic and remote, you need jackets that cover all bases. Pack jackets blending insulation with waterproof fabric to keep you warm and dry, no matter the weather.

Why it’s great: Phillip Island is renowned for its wildlife encounters and stunning coastal scenery. Camp by the beach and wake up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore, or stay in a caravan park with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Explore the island's walking tracks, visit the famous Penguin Parade, explore the Forrest Caves or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. 

Where to camp: Phillip Island has a number of camping options, but here are two very different options to try:

Keen on some glamping? At The Sheltered Glamping Co, guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations in well-equipped canvas bell tents or spacious safari tents. These eco-friendly options include amenities such as queen-sized beds, heating, private outdoor showers, and access to communal areas, all set in a serene environment where wallabies and echidnas roam freely.

BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island, situated on the island's western edge near the bridge to the mainland, offers a secluded retreat close to nature with direct beach access. Alongside standard amenities like an adventure playground and camp kitchen, the park also features unique offerings such as a seasonal outdoor cinema and pedal cars for hire, providing a diverse range of activities for guests.

What to pack: Hot summer days at the beach are dreamy, but often disturbed by coastal winds. Don’t let the wind ruin your trip by packing a lightweight, windproof jacket. Look for jackets that offer cord-adjustable cuffs and hoods to keep you cosy even in the strongest breeze. For the ultimate camping jacket for women or men, look for styles that offer an inner fleece layer that can be unzipped, offering extra warmth on cooler nights, or serving as a simple windproof shell in the heat.

Victoria offers countless camping destinations for every type of adventurer. Whether you prefer coastal camping, mountain retreats, or bushland adventures, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Before heading off on your camping trip, ensure you pack a great waterproof hooded jacket to stay comfortable and prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Happy camping!