Heading to Africa? Whether it’s your first safari or your tenth, having the right gear can make or break your adventure. To help you pack smartly, here’s a comprehensive packing list covering everything you need for a seamless journey across this incredible continent.
Safari Packing List
Accessories
Soft shell suitcase, travel bag, or hybrid backpack with wheels – brands like Osprey, Kathmandu, North Face, or American Apparel are great options (cheaper alternatives work too). Make sure that it is soft shell and limited to 50litres or 15kgs because there is limited room in the safari jeeps, and if your bags dont fit inside, they will be tied to the roof of the jeep, and will get wet and dusty.
Day pack.
Refillable water canteen to reduce plastic waste.
Pocket knife and travel cutlery.
Binoculars for animal spotting.
Travel towel.
A good book (but not too many as they add weight).
Packing cubes for organisation.
Foldable duffle bag.
Waterproof cover and dry bag.
Laundry bag and detergent.
Stain remover.
Earplugs and an eye mask.
Sunglasses.
Buff or scarf for dusty safaris.
Travel locks.
Small mirror.
Clothes
(Always check the climate and season in the areas you’re travelling to as conditions can vary widely.)
Lightweight, breathable clothing in layers.
Sweater or jacket for cooler mornings and evenings.
Earthy or neutral colours for safari (avoid bright colours).
3-4 short-sleeve t-shirts.
2-3 pairs of shorts.
1 long-sleeve t-shirt.
1-2 dresses (non-creasing fabric is best).
1-2 pairs of long trousers (avoid short shorts in conservative regions).
1 pair of leggings.
7 sets of underwear and socks.
Sports bra for bumpy rides.
Swimwear (most lodges have pools).
Flip-flops or sandals for camp use.
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for walking or trainers.
A hat (choose one with a strap or snug fit to avoid it flying away).
Pyjamas.
For Cold Weather
(Africa isn’t always hot; temperatures can drop below freezing in some areas like Kilimanjaro but if you are not going there, then you wont need to worry.)
Down jacket (compressible).
Lightweight rain jacket.
Thermals.
Long trousers and woollen jumpers.
Beanie and woollen socks.
Sleeping bag liner for added warmth in tents.
Health
Sun protection: sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen.
Lip balm (for dry air and dust).
Insect repellent and bite cream (like Tiger Balm).
Hand sanitiser.
Biodegradable wet wipes.
Prescription medications (enough for the whole trip).
Anti-malaria pills (test them beforehand to ensure no side effects).
First aid kit:
Plasters/Band-Aids.
Antiseptic cream (e.g., Savlon).
Electrolyte powders.
Pain relievers (paracetamol, ibuprofen).
Stomach meds (e.g., Pepto Bismol, Imodium).
Antihistamines and cold & flu tablets.
Blister plasters and antiseptic wipes.
Fibre powder or pre/probiotics.
Aloe vera or aftersun.
Toiletries
Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss.
Hair products and deodorant.
Body wash.
Tweezers and nail clippers.
For Women
Feminine hygiene products (tampons and applicators are scarce; menstrual cups are a great alternative).
Long trousers and maxi/midi skirts (for conservative areas).
Sarong (multi-purpose).
Spare toilet paper (many public toilets don’t provide it).
Electronics
Adaptor and power bank.
Phone and eSIM or phone pin.
Laptop with a protective case.
Camera (with a zoom lens for wildlife).
Memory cards and USB/hard drive.
Solar power charger.
Portable speaker.
Head torch or LED hand torch.
Kindle.
Electric fan.
For Long Bus Rides
Snacks and meals.
Spare cash for roadside purchases.
Warm clothes for early morning/late night journeys.
Long books, downloaded playlists, or podcasts.
Plenty of water (at least 6L for long rides).
Insurance, Immunisations, and Travel Docs
Travel insurance (World Nomads is a popular choice).
Valid passport (at least 6 months’ validity).
Approved Visa's and ETA's (Apply at least 60 days in advance).
International Driver’s licence (if renting a car).
Yellow fever certificate (required in some countries).
Printed copies of all important documents (e.g., passports, visas, flight tickets, hotel bookings, yellow fever).
Money
A mix of mostly US dollars (for activities) and a small amount local currency (if available).
Debit/credit cards (Visa is the most widely accepted, but Mastercard is becoming more common). Notify your bank of your travel plans.
Bring two cards in case one doesn’t work or is swallowed by an ATM.
With this packing list in hand, you’re all set for an unforgettable African adventure. Pack wisely, travel lightly, and soak in the beauty of the continent!
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