We wanted to share some helpful tips for your African safari packing list. Our safari planning team at Go2Africa was a fantastic resource and answered a lot of questions for us, as it was our first safari. We can’t thank them enough!
The first thing you should know about your safari is that your camp will usually provide a laundry service! Yay! If that’s the case, that will greatly help in reducing the amount of clothes needed for your trip. The reason this is so important is that you’ll have luggage weight limitations on the small bush planes. You may also be required to pack in soft-sided duffle bags or backpacks, as suitcases aren’t allowed. We like this Osprey backpack for our safari travel.
If your camps do provide laundry service, then be prepared to have at least 3 sets of clothes suitable for safaris. Also, research the typical weather conditions and temperatures (i.e., is it the wet season, is it cold in the morning but warm throughout the day?).
If you have to do your own laundry, then we recommend laundry detergent sheets by laundry club. They are eco-friendly, veteran-owned and super easy to pack in a Ziplock, so you don’t have to take the whole box.
One of the most important things about clothing is the color. Certain colors can and will attract the wrong attention. Blue and black are for sure off the packing list; both colors will attract bugs, more specifically the tsetse fly and other biting flies. Bright colors, like white, yellow or reds, may startle or scare off the animals that you are trying to see up close. Camouflage is forbidden due to military affiliation, and you should also avoid other patterns. Your best bet is to pack solid natural colors (drab greens, browns or khaki).
Your shoes should be durable but comfortable and close-toed. For these, we love our ON Cloudventures. We love this brand for their comfort, but this particular style has a firmer sole for support while hiking or walking on uneven terrain. They breathe well and also come in a waterproof version. Most importantly, pick any shoe you like, just make sure you are comfortable wearing them for long hours out in your safari vehicle and while hiking.
For your attire, think in layers. Clothes that breathe well are more comfortable and typically lighter in weight, which makes it easier for layering. If you are going in the cooler months, be sure to have a warm jacket/fleece and warm hat for the early morning breakfasts and safaris, as well as safaris past sundown. If it’s the wet season, then all the above is applicable but also include a lightweight rain jacket and possibly pants. Again, these should all be neutral in color.
Now let’s talk accessories. A nice camera is a plus for distant wildlife shots; be sure to pack this in your carryon luggage. We use the Sony RX10 IV and love its incredible zoom without having to change lenses, as its an all-in-one camera. The image and video quality are superb for beginner photographers. If a new camera is not on the list, then any of the newer smart phones do a decent job as well.
Another important accessory for wildlife viewing is a good pair of binoculars. This pair is lightweight, high-powered and has an adapter for your smart phone to take pictures through the binoculars.
Sunblock and bug spray or lotion are also critical items on your African safari packing list – to keep the midday sun and biting flies away. Also, don’t forget sunglasses and a hat.
We recommend you check with a travel clinic to review any vaccines, antimalarials, or antibiotics needed for your specific destinations. Be sure to also pack a first aid kit with bandages and topical treatments.
Purchasing a filtering water bottle is a must and takes away any uncertainty regarding water quality. We use the Grayl GeoPress water bottle. It’s lightweight and easy to use, plus you get 65 gallons per filter. It filters out viruses, bacteria, chemicals and particulates.
We also like these compressed toilet paper rolls for use in the field. You simply add a teaspoon of water, and the roll expands to a wet wipe. These are super easy to carry, are biodegradable, and multipurpose.
For staying connected with family and friends, download a virtual eSIM card for your smart phone through Airalo. Lastly, an outlet adapter is a crucial packing item for all of your electronics and chargers during any international travel. We love this outlet adapter for its multiple connection points and versatility across the globe.
Let us know if you have any questions or have anything to add for our next African safari packing list!
And check out our African safari adventure through Botswana and Zimbabwe.
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