What To Bring To Fruit Picking (Fruit Picking Australia Essentials)

Whether you're on a working holiday picking fruits on a farm to obtain your second working holiday visa, or just in the mood to pick some fruits in your free time, it's in your best interest to be prepared by bringing these essential items.

Depending on what you're picking and the climate of your working area, these items may vary according.

        1. Sun Protection

A wide brimmed hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, long sleeves... you name it. These are all must-haves for any outdoor work or even any walking commute to your workplace - especially in Australia due to its Ozone depletion.

• Make sure your hat is wide enough to cover your entire face and neck. 
• A sunscreen with at least an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30+ is optimal; also remember to reapply sunscreen every three hours. 
• Choose sunglasses with a value of 3 or 4 high eye protection factor (EPF) to reduce most UV radiation from affecting your eyes. Polarised lenses are great at reducing sun glares. I bought a pair of polarised glasses for $37 during boxing day sales; its usefulness so far is immeasurable. 
• Long sleeves can also protect you from thorny fruit plants - be sure to do enough research beforehand. 

        2. Sufficient Water Supply

Water is your best friend when working outdoors. Or anytime. It prevents dehydration, heatstroke and heat exhaustion, lightheadedness... the list goes on and on. For me, bringing two water bottles is just right.

        3. Gloves and Shears 

Bring your own gloves and shears as many citrus and grape farms will not provide these for free. Getting them yourself can save the money you desperately need for that extra pack of crispy snacks you always crave!

        4. Sturdy Work Boots

Sneakers are also fine for most jobs. You should only take flip flops to pick fruits if you don't want to earn much; so it's in your best interest to invest in a long-lasting pair of sturdy shoes. 

        5. Insect Repellent

Depending on the area you're working in, the suitable insect repellent will help prevent those pesky little bugs from distracting you when picking. One thing people tend to forget to warn travellers about Australia is its amount of flies. Try typing in "Australia flies" into Google and the first search suggestion you'll see is "Australia flies everywhere". These flies are vicious and they will persistently pester your face, and so far are the bane of my life in Australia. If repellents are not your thing you can always try using fly net hats. 

        6. Music Device

Music has been my saviour from boredom for days of work. When you're a few weeks into your job, the monotony of picking or packing fruits will not be kind to your productiveness. Be sure to ask your supervisor for permission and download your favourite upbeat tracks to avoid the steady descent into insanity when picking.