african safari must haves

23 MUST-HAVE Items on your African Safari Packing List

• Updated on January 15, 2024
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First trip to Africa? You’re in luck!

Having recently been on Safari in Tanzania, we can provide you with first-hand, reliable and up-to-date information on how to make your trip stress-free, with this ultimate African safari packing list.

Packing for your first safari can be a daunting task. It is not just about taking the essentials, but also understanding what to expect from this new and exciting experience. 

Most people don’t realize that African safaris are not just limited to a few hours in the wild.

You need to be prepared for lots of travel, long drives, and a great deal of time outdoors.

If you want to know exactly what to take and the practical reasons WHY you need them, then you’ll find this safari packing list incredibly helpful!

Safari Clothing Essentials

The following list of safari clothing is based on the assumption that you will be sat in a vehicle for the majority of the day, which makes your safari packing list a tad easier.

Note: We are all for sustainable travel and find no need to splurge on expensive safari gear that will only be used once!

Tips for Safari Clothes Packing

• Material Choose clothing that is easy to pack, dries quickly, and wicks moisture away from the skin. Man-made fabrics (such as polyimide) perform better than natural fabrics (such as cotton) and keep you cooler.
• Laundry Services Laundry services are generally available at camps and lodges, so only pack what you need as luggage space is precious.
• Wear Earth Tones The African Tsetse fly is ferocious and is attracted to dark blue and black colors. With bites similar to horseflies, they can and will make your trip a living nightmare! Choose khaki green and brown colors where possible. It’s best to avoid pale colors as you will get rather dusty and dirty during the day!
• Organize Your Clothing Organizing your safari clothing makes life so much easier, particularly if you have onward travel to another destination. Use packing cubes to place your safari clothes on the top for easier access and less mess.

Read More: Riu Palace Resort Zanzibar – Our Honest Review

Clothing for your African Safari Packing List:

1. safari shirt.

If there is one thing worth investing in, it is a proper safari shirt. We were the only ones in our camp that didn’t get bitten to bits by those relentless tsetse flies!

Tsetse flies can bite through thin or penetrable fabric, and a quality safari shirt will prevent them from doing so.

The best safari shirts will have built-in anti-insect treatment.

You can thank us later…!

2. T-Shirts

Layering is key to keeping warm and/or cool. Wearing t-shirts (under your shirt) also means you only need to fork out on the one expensive safari shirt.

3. Boots or Shoes

You don’t need specific safari boots or shoes and you certainly don’t need to spend a fortune on them. As you’ll be in the vehicle all day, a sturdy pair that you can wear with socks (that you can tuck your pants into) will do just fine.

When you’re walking around camp you won’t want to wear open-toe sandals, especially once you’ve seen all the sunspiders scattering around! Eeeek!

4. Safari Hat

Don’t forget your safari hat! You want full coverage – preferably one with a large brim that keeps your face and neck in the shade. Even with a pop-up roof, the sun will still manage to beat down on you, and it’s one heck of a sun!

Tip: Make sure your safari hat fits you snugly or has a neck cord – your rides will pick up speed and you don’t want to lose it with an unexpected gust of wind!

We love this packable safari hat that always bounces back to life (in featured photo).

5. Safari Pants

Long, lightweight, and enough to cover up those legs but not too hot or bulky. You’ll be sitting for a large proportion of the day so they’ll need to be comfortable.

You probably won’t want to wear shorts after you’ve encountered those tsetse flies.

Read More: The Lodge in Ngorongoro that has Spectacular Views

Lightweight, comfortable, and preferably water-resistant. Early starts can get chilly, so don’t be fooled – even if you’re the hardiest of people!

African Safari Packing List Essentials

7. soft-sided luggage.

If you’re traveling on bush flights you’ll be limited to 15kg on your luggage, plus you’ll need a soft bag (no hard suitcases allowed) that can be stuffed onto small planes. A duffel bag is an essential item to get your safari packing list going!

8. Packing Cubes

If you’ve never used them before, you’re in for a treat! Packing cubes made life so much easier on safari!

These provide the perfect way to organize your clothes and toiletries. Plus, you’ll be able to quickly see what’s in them which makes it easy when you’re looking for something specific without having to unpack everything. A total game-changer for organized travel!

Note: Plastic bags are now banned in many African countries and will be confiscated at airports. Sealable silicone bags are a perfect alternative for your leaky toiletries.

9. Universal Travel Adapter

Be sure to bring the correct travel adapters for Africa so you can charge your essential batteries. There are two types of outlets, European and British – this universal travel adapter will have you covered in any eventuality! 

10. Insect Repellent

It’s important to keep biting insects away from you, both during the day and at night. They can carry dangerous diseases such as malaria, so don’t be tempted to leave this out.

The best type to use is one that can be sprayed over clothing. I know this may sound peculiar, but that’s what they all do in the bush! 

Choose a natural repellant that does not damage clothing – this is the insect repellent we used and our safari guides absolutely loved it!

11. Tiger Balm

African tsetse flies have a nasty bite on them. This tiger balm will help take the edge off any itchy or swollen skin and should not be missed off your safari packing list. We first discovered this in Thailand and it’s by far the best relief for insect bites

12. First Aid Kit

Remember that you’re a while away from any emergency medical care. A simple first aid kit can take the stress out of any minor accidents along the way. Plus, you won’t have to rely on calling the staff to your tent at night if you have your own kit.

13. Sunscreen

Being so close to the equator means that you’re going to be exposed to a lot of UV radiation. Pack sunscreen and wear it when outdoors, even when you think you don’t need it.

On our first day, we thought the pop-up roof in our vehicle would provide enough protection from the sun – we were very wrong!

Read More: How we found The Best Safari Tour Guides in Tanzania

14. Sunglasses

UV protection is essential in Africa! Protecting yourself from intense sunlight will make your safari experience so much more comfortable. If you want to avoid squinting all day, then sunglasses are a must!

15. Flashlight

It gets pretty dark at night when you’re in an environment with zero light pollution. Most camps should provide you with a flashlight, but we would always err on the side of caution and have one handy.

16. Mosquito Net

It goes without saying that tented camps will lack any air-conditioning that ordinarily keeps mosquitos at bay! Check if your accommodation provides mosquito nets around beds before you book, if not – take one with you.

17. Power Bank

A power bank is essential if you’re on safari for more than a day. It’s always handy to have an external charger that can work anywhere in Africa.

Most safari vehicles will have USB ports that can be used with charging cables, but if you’re staying in tented camps then I wouldn’t rely on charging anything too quickly!

18. Selfie Stick

Wait, I know what you’re thinking… selfie sticks are soooo NOT on-trend!

But when you’re up close to a pack of lions feasting, or that cheetah that’s slowly walking behind your vehicle, you’ll be incredibly pleased you had something that could reach around to capture the all-important moment (rather than hanging your arms out of the jeep!)

19. Anti-Diarrhea Tablets

Being on the go in Africa can result in some stomach upset, so it’s best to have a supply of anti-diarrhea tablets with you. The last thing you need is for your bucket list safari trip to be ruined because you can’t part with the bathroom!

20. Binoculars

Check whether your safari vehicle provides a sufficient number of binoculars for all travelers. 

If not, you might want to bring your own as there’s nothing quite like hurrying up the person next to you so you can cop a look at the action!

21. Microfibre Towel

These smart microfibre towels are light and packable for when you’re not staying in a hotel. They dry quickly too and won’t cause a stench when you’re on the go! 

22. Toilet Paper/Wipes

Depending on your safari destination, there may not be any bathrooms within a 2-hour radius, so be prepared by packing toilet paper/wipes and hand sanitizer! These are absolutely essential items for your safari packing list!

23. Anti-Malaria Tablets

There is a risk of malaria in most parts of Africa. Speak with your travel clinic about the pros and cons of taking anti-malarial tablets, sometimes the side effects can be off-putting if you have existing medical conditions or a sensitive tummy. 

You may decide that taking the tablets is not an option and therefore need to re-evaluate whether an African safari is the right choice for you.

Read More: How Plan an Affordable Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari

Other Handy Safari Packing Tips:

• Take sufficient cash You may be surprised to hear that there are no ATM machines out on safari! Make sure you bring enough cash for the duration of your safari for souvenirs, additional snacks, drinks at your camp/lodge, and tips for your safari guide
• Drones Drones are not allowed by any camps in East Africa due to the effects they have on wildlife (and also for security reasons)
• Hairdryers Hairdryers and other powerful appliances generally cannot be used if you’re staying in tented camps as electricity is scarce
• Avoid any military/camo clothing It’s a safari, not the SAS! Just kidding. The real reason to avoid military-style clothing is that it may land you into trouble in some territories, especially in Kenya. Governments are wary of anyone posing as a military officer and will question your intentions. A situation we would all just rather avoid!

READ: Zanzibar Travel During Covid-19 – What You Need To Know

Your Safari Packing List Covered!

Packing for a safari can be stressful, especially if you have no idea what to expect.

Hopefully this African safari packing list will help to make your experience as stress-free as possible, so that you can focus on making great memories instead!

You may also be interested in our post about Safari Anxiety: 19 Things That Freak People Out

Further Reads:

• Things People Worry About on Safari
• How to Save $$$ on an African Safari
• 9 Luxury Safari Tented Camps in Serengeti

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African Safari Anxiety: 19 Things People Worry About!

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Roy Safaris Review: Best Tour Operator in Tanzania?

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The Ultimate Packing List for Your African Safari

Packing for an African safari is somewhat different to most other trips you'll take. Navigating rural roads in an open-top jeep means that you'll get covered in dust, so you'll need clothes that hide dirt well. Because temperatures can change dramatically throughout the day, layers are essential (after all, pre-dawn game drives are often chilly even in the height of summer). If your itinerary includes flights in a bush plane between different parks or camps, you'll need to pack extra light to comply with charter flight baggage restrictions.

In this article, we provide a comprehensive packing list that should cover most 7-10 day safaris (while still leaving room in your suitcase for a few curios ).

Dressing for Your Safari

Safaris are generally casual affairs, so you can leave your evening-wear at home. The best clothes are loose-fitting and lightweight, so that they keep you cool and dry quickly if you get caught in a rain shower. Make sure to bring at least one good fleece or jacket for warding off the chill on early morning game drives. At night, there will usually be a campfire to keep you warm, but you'll want to wear long sleeves and trousers to protect yourself from mosquitoes . This is particularly important in malarial areas.

When it comes to colors, pick neutral tones over brighter shades for optimum camouflage in the bush. Khaki is a safari favorite for a reason: it's cool, camouflaged and hides dirt well. If you're in tsetse fly country, avoid wearing blue – it's an attractant for the disease-carrying insects.

Clothes and Accessories

• 2 long-sleeve shirts
• 1 sweatshirt or fleece
• 1 lightweight raincoat 
• 1 pair of comfortable shorts
• 2 pairs of cotton trousers/pants
• 3 pairs of socks
• 4 pairs of underwear (cotton, so that you can easily wash and dry them overnight)
• 1 pair of sunglasses (preferably with UV protection)
• 1 warm woollen hat 
• 1 swimsuit 
• 1 pair of lightweight, durable walking shoes or hiking boots
• 1 pair of flip-flops or sandals (for wearing around camp)
• A supply of Ziploc bags to keep your dirty laundry separate from your clean clothes

Top Tip: Ladies, on the bumpy roads of Africa, a decent sports bra is your best friend. 

Toiletries and First Aid

Every camp or lodge will have at least a basic first aid kit , and most safari vehicles will too (especially those operated by higher-end camps). However, it's always a good idea to bring your own small supply of hygiene and health essentials. 

• Personal toiletries, including travel size shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, moisturizer, toothpaste and toothbrush
• Sunscreen (minimum SPF 30+)
• After-sun cream
• Antiseptic gel (for washing your hands when there's no water around)
• Sanitary products for ladies
• Contraceptives (including a supply of the pill, if you're on it)
• Mosquito repellant (the most effective includes DEET)
• Malaria pills (if needed)
• Antihistamines for bug bites and allergic reactions
• Painkillers, e.g. aspirin or Tylenol
• Cold and flu medicines 
• Diarrhea medication, e.g. loperamide
• Antiseptic cream
• Prescription medicines
• A spare pair of glasses for those that wear contact lenses (it's often too dusty to wear them comfortably)

​Electronic Devices

• Camera (this can be a basic point-and-shoot or an SLR with detachable lenses and a tripod, depending on how serious a photographer you are)
• Spare memory cards 
• Spare camera battery (consider a solar charger if you're going to be camping)
• Binoculars (if you have them, otherwise your safari guide will likely have a pair you can borrow)
• Spare AA and AAA batteries
• Electrical adaptor 
• Small flashlight (to use inside your tent or to find your way around camp at night)
• iPad or tablet for storing e-books, photos and handy travel apps

Pack For a Purpose

Many safari camps and lodges now support local community initiatives in and around the wildlife parks, reserves and concession areas. If you want to make a positive difference during your time away, ask if you can bring any supplies that will help these projects (usually school supplies, medication or clothing). Check out  Pack For a Purpose  for lists of specific requests from lodges around Africa as well as suggestions on how best to pack the items they need. 

Before you start packing, make sure to research your options carefully. If there are two parts to your trip, you may be able to pack a separate duffel or backpack for the safari section and leave your main suitcase with your tour operator or hotel back at base. This keeps things light for your bush flight to Ngorongoro Crater , for example, while still allowing you to pack your scuba gear for your second week on the beach in Zanzibar .

You should also try to find out ahead of time whether your safari camp or lodge offers a laundry service. If not, you can recycle clothes by packing a small bottle of travel detergent and a length of thin nylon rope to serve as a makeshift laundry line. 

When choosing your suitcase, a soft-sided duffel is almost always a better bet than a rigid hardshell case. Duffels are easier to fit into narrow overhead compartments or into the back of a safari vehicle – and they're more likely to withstand the wear and tear of life in the bush. Because poverty and corruption lead to theft at many third world airports , we recommend plastic wrapping your bags before your flights and investing in a decent luggage lock. Always pack your valuables (and especially your camera with all your precious memories) in your hand luggage.

This article was updated by Jessica Macdonald on March 20 2019. 

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10 Things You Must Pack for Your Safari

Patrick has been an Africa travel specialist, based in Australia, for over 10 years and prior to that was a safari operator in Mana Pools in Zimbabwe.

You’ve waited months for your safari to finally come around. And now you have to decide what you must pack for your safari. Decisions, decisions, decisions. SafariBookings is here to help. Below are a few of our tips.

9,859 African Safaris

1. Passport, Itinerary, Travel Insurance Docs & Etickets

It seems obvious, but we would be remiss if we didn't put this at the top of the list of what you must pack for your safari.

2. Prescription Meds

Remember to put your prescription medications in your hand luggage (in case your check-in bag goes astray... it happens!)…and make sure you have enough of each type to last your entire safari.

3. Prescription Glasses (Sunglasses, Hat, Sunblock Et Al)

If you wear prescription glasses, be sure to pack more than one set (in case you lose one or they get broken). You will be outdoors for much of the time, so be prepared. Pack a hat, sunblock, long sleeves, and lip balm.

4. Camera, Video and Binoculars

Whilst most people will remember to take their camera and/or video (or will use their mobile phone), not everyone thinks they need to take binoculars! Binoculars are ESSENTIAL for optimum wildlife viewing on safari (and a GOOD pair of binoculars will make a BIG difference to your safari). We strongly recommend a pair of binoculars on safari. Get the most expensive you can afford (at least 8x or better still 10x magnification).

Africa is a photographer’s dream. Not only does the boundless wildlife come in all shapes and sizes, but the continent is also blessed with stunning landscapes, colorful people and fabulous light! Don’t miss out. Buy a camera, if you don’t already have one.

5. Clothes & Toiletries

Of course you’re not going to forget clothes! But are you taking the right clothes…and are you within those weight restrictions your travel agent told you about for those light aircraft flights? Most international airlines will restrict your check-in luggage to around 20 to 30kgs (55lbs). However, if your safari itinerary includes any light aircraft flights, then this can mean as little as 12 to 15 kgs (sometimes including your hand luggage!).

Don’t panic! Remember, a same-day laundry service is usually available in most safari camps and lodges. This means you DO NOT need a change of clothes for each day you are on safari! The exception will be for mobile tented safaris where it is often difficult, due the mobile nature, to offer a laundry service. It may also be possible to leave a bag with the charter company, or person meeting you, for the duration of the safari portion. When in doubt, ask your travel agent.

Casual but Comfortable

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year when on safari. Whilst you may elect to start a completely new safari ‘wardrobe’ it is really not necessary to look like an extra on the set of Out of Africa! Apart from selecting reasonably neutral or ‘non-bright’ colored clothing, safari-wear is generally casual and practical. Be sure you take clothes that you feel comfortable in – especially when it comes to your walking/hiking boots. The newer quick-drying fabrics, shirts with ventilation and trousers that convert into shorts are all worth considering.

Layering Is Key

Wearing clothes in layers is the most practical way to cope with fluctuating day/night temperatures and cool evenings whilst on safari. As the day warms up you can peel off another layer. Then as it begins to cool toward evening, you can put them back on. Here's the "must-haves" to pack for your safari:

• A) T-shirt, shirt or blouse - long sleeves and collars help to protect from the sun and mosquitoes
• B) Fleece or warm jacket
• C) A pair of safari trousers - those that zip off at the knees are very handy, too
• D) Comfortable walking shoes (or boots) and socks
• F) Bandanna or cotton scarf and a sarong (kanga, pareo, kikoi)
• G) Maybe a pair of open sports sandals for general daytime use in warmer months
• H) Swimsuit -  a number of lodges and camps have swimming pools
• I) An elegantly casual outfit for dinner at the smarter hotels
• J) A light, compact raincoat if it is likely you will encounter rain (gorilla and chimp trekking)
• K) And, of course, your undergarments

Dull and/or neutral colors are more suitable for safari, white and/or bright colours are not practical as they tend to stand out – definitely not advisable on a walking safari. Cotton clothing is recommended although the newer synthetic safari clothing lines are quick drying and extremely comfortable.

Check the Weather

Ask your travel agent (or check online) and find out what the weather will be like where you are going. You may not need any serious cold weather gear at all (and that will really help with the luggage limit!). Alternatively, if you are going anywhere in winter where the temperature drops dramatically when the sun goes down, you may need gloves, a scarf, a thick jacket and a beanie!  Places like Hwange, Okavango, Linyanti and even Kruger are freezing in the early morning and late evening during the winter months (June through August). And this is magnified by a significant wind-chill factor that you'll feel when on the back of an open game-drive vehicle.

6. Phone, Music, Tablet or Laptop

What you must pack for your safari are your phone, music, tablet or laptop - and their respective chargers,  country-specific adaptor plugs.

7. Preventative Pharmaceuticals

This is just a fancy way of saying ‘meds’ – stuff you need, just in case the worst happens: diarrhea, headaches, heartburn, insect repellent, hand sanitizer, bites (antihistamine), indigestion, sore throat (lozenges),  eye drops, and most important – anti-malarial tablets.

8. Odds & Ends

A good torch (flashlight) is a must. It can be pitch black in the bush or in your tent in the middle of the night. A rechargeable torch is ideal but a small battery-powered torch is sufficient. The new LED miner’s lights that fit on your head (and leave your hands free) are also a good option. A smaller (pencil) torch for emergencies or looking at star maps is also worth considering. Most camps will provide a torch, or will walk you back to your tent as required, but being self-sufficient is always a good idea.

A good book. It never hurts to have an interesting book when travelling. You never know when you are going to be delayed at the airport or fall victim to Africa time! A travel diary or journal is something we recommend. You will see and experience so much in such a short period of time on safari, that the only way to maintain a good record of it will be to write it down. It does require discipline, but will serve as an invaluable record of your safari adventure.

9. Hand Luggage

Firstly, try to restrict your hand luggage to one item only, if for no other reason than more than one item makes travel that much harder. And, yes, a handbag qualifies as a second item! Obviously, that one item should be of a size that is acceptable as carry-on luggage by the airlines. If you are a photographer, then this will mean you must have sufficient space in your camera bag for travel documents, your prescription medication and/or glasses, binoculars and even a change of clothes. Bear in mind that restrictions on what can and cannot be taken on board an aircraft are still in place – including for liquids, flammables and sharp objects. The rules change frequently, so please double-check and take heed.

10. Finally, Don’t Forget Your Sense of Humor, Patience and Some Common Sense!

It is not advisable to wear any form of clothing that may be construed as “camouflage”. By this we mean any form of brown/green “combat” style coloring. Even if it is the latest fashion statement – and even if it is your 14 year old wearing it – and even if it is just a cap. Many African authorities have a disproportionate phobia about such garments and this could conceivably result in you being questioned or harassed by the police. It has the potential to cause you grief, so don’t do it. Do not take any expensive personal jewelry on safari. Be minimalist or take only those everyday items that you normally wear, like your wedding band, inexpensive earrings.

With regard to securing your luggage, we would strongly suggest using one or more combination locks to secure zips together if your suitcase does not have its own locking mechanism. Luggage tampering in airports does occur, unfortunately. Luggage straps that wrap around your suitcase can also deter, whilst shrink-wrapping facilities are available at some airports.

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The Ultimate Safari Packing List

All the clothing, shoes, and accessories you need for your safari adventure.

In This Article

Packing Checklist for a Safari

• What to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

A safari tour is a bucket-list vacation for many travelers — and it's a type of trip that requires a bit of specialized packing. After all, you can't just pop by the store to pick up any forgotten items when you're in the bush.

While camps might have some spare supplies that you can borrow, it's important to head into this journey as prepared as possible. That's why we spoke to experts to put this broad safari packing list together, covering the essentials for clothing, shoes, accessories, and bags (because you might not be able to bring your normal suitcase!). And we've even tested a number of the products ourselves.

Use this guide to gather everything you'll need for your safari trip, and also be sure to pack other typical travel essentials, such as your passport and other necessary documents, toiletries, and more.

Here's everything you need to pack for a safari with our top pick for each item. Use this as a checklist and read more about each of our specific recommendations below.

• Best Long-sleeved Shirt: Columbia Men's and Women's PFG Tamiami II Long-sleeve Shirt at Columbia
• Best Short-sleeved Shirt: L.L. Bean Men's and Women's Tropicwear Shirt, Short-sleeve at L.L. Bean
• Best Pants: REI Co-op Men's and Women's Sahara Convertible Pants at REI
• Best Warm Layer: Patagonia Men's and Women's Better Sweater Fleece Jacket at REI
• Best Rain Jacket: Marmot Men's and Women's Precip Waterproof Rain Jacket
• Best Hiking Boots: Merrell Men's and Women's Moab 3 Mid
• Best Trail Runners: Allbirds Men's and Women's Trail Runners SWT at Allbirds
• Best Sandals: Birkenstock Gizeh EVA Sandals

Gear and Accessories

• Best Hat: Tilley LTM6 Airflo Broad Brim Hat at REI
• Best Binoculars: Athlon Optics Midas G2 UHD 8x42 at Amazon
• Best Sunscreen: Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
• Best Sunglasses: Smith Caper Sunglasses with Chromapop
• Best E-reader: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite at Amazon
• Best Adapter: Mingtong International Travel Adapter at Amazon
• Best Bug Spray: Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent

Luggage and Bags

• Best Carry-on Duffel: Patagonia Black Hole 40L Duffle Bag
• Best Checked Duffel: Briggs & Riley ZDX 27” Medium Upright Duffle
• Best Daypack: Gregory Swift 22 H20 Backpack

Best Clothing

"When it comes to safari clothing, bear in mind the Three Cs: Color-sensitive, casual, and comfortable," says Micato Safaris advisor Liz Wheeler, a member of Travel + Leisure's A-List.

Color is particularly important. "Stick to neutral colors like khaki, light brown, gray, stone, and tan, which blend in with the colors of nature," says Richard Avilino, a private guide with Wilderness Safaris . You also might want to skip white — it's not ideal for the dusty conditions of most safari landscapes. As for colors to avoid, Wheeler advises to skip "flamboyantly bright colors, particularly reds, which can actually scare off the safari animals." She also advises against darker colors like dark blue, which can attract flies.

In terms of fabrics, opt for materials that will keep you cool, like cotton or moisture-wicking synthetics. Anything quick-dry is a great idea, particularly if you plan on doing laundry during your safari. "If you are in remote camps, all laundry will be done by hand and air-dried, so quick-dry is handy," says Andy Hogg, founder of the Bushcamp Company.

Fortunately, most safari lodges offer laundry services — which are frequently complimentary — so you can get away with packing light. Here's our recommended wardrobe.

Best Long-sleeved Shirt

Columbia columbia men's and women's pfg tamiami ii long-sleeve shirt.

A long-sleeve shirt might be the most crucial part of your safari wardrobe. Though most safari destinations can get pretty hot during the day, long-sleeve shirts are ideal as they provide extra protection from both the sun and insect bites. Plus, it often gets fairly cold in the morning and at night, so being able to roll your sleeves down is a bonus. We love this long-sleeve shirt because it's quick-dry and moisture-wicking with mesh ventilation in the back for extra cooling.

Best Short-sleeved Shirt

L.l. bean l.l. bean tropicwear shirt, short-sleeve.

If you really can't stand the idea of wearing long sleeves on safari, don't worry. Short-sleeve shirts are acceptable, too! This wrinkle-free shirt is made with UPF 50+, providing you with extra sun protection. You can toss your sunglasses in one of the two chest pockets, and you can clean them with the microfiber wipe inside the front shirttail. A bonus: This shirt is stretchy for extra comfort.

REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

Safari pants are something of a personal choice — you want to wear something that feels most comfortable to you. "Some guests like the novelty and convenience of those nylon pants with the nifty zip-off legs," Wheeler says. "If you do make that fashion choice, practice zipping the legs on and off before you go. I’m serious! It’s just one of those things that’s not for everybody." If you do decide to go the convertible route, we recommend this pair of pants, which are made from water-repellent nylon and have plenty of pockets for gear.

Best Warm Layer

Patagonia better sweater fleece jacket.

At night, it often gets fairly cold on safari, so it's essential to pack a warm layer for evenings and early-morning game drives. This full-zip Patagonia fleece, which is made from 100 percent recycled polyester, has a sweater-knit exterior that's ideal for dusty conditions on safari — it doesn't trap as much dust as fuzzier models. It has three zippered pockets, including a chest pocket for stashing your binoculars, phone, or hand warmers if you need them.

Best Rain Jacket

Marmot precip rain jacket.

If you're going on safari during the wet season, toss a packable rain jacket into your duffel. This jacket, which folds into its own pocket, has a hood that can be rolled into the collar as well as a soft lining on the chin to prevent chafing. While many rain jackets trap body heat, this is a particularly breathable one, made from Marmot's proprietary NanoPro nylon. It also has zippers in the armpits for extra ventilation and more flexible movement. We found that though this jacket feels deceptively thin, it's extremely adept at repelling water. But if you're looking for warmth, definitely wear a layer underneath.

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Many safari operators issue weight limits for your baggage, which is often due to the small bush planes you take to get between remote camps. As such, you'll want to avoid overpacking, and cutting down the number of shoes you bring is an easy way to save space. Two essential pairs? Hiking boots or trail runners (for walking safaris or trekking along trails) and sandals (for comfortably lounging at your lodge for the day).

Best Hiking Boots

Merrell waterproof hiking boots.

Hiking boots aren't always necessary on safari, as most game drives don't involve much walking. But if you're on a walking safari or if your lodge has hiking trails, you'll want to pack appropriate footwear. This mid-height pair provides enough ankle support without being too bulky, and we found them to be solidly waterproof — key if you're trekking through a muddy area. They're also fairly lightweight, so they won't take up too much of your precious weight limit in your bag. If you're going to bring hiking boots on safari, make sure to break them in first. "Don’t buy new ones right before the trip," Hogg says. No one wants to develop blisters while on safari!

Best Trail Runners

Allbirds trail runners.

Trail runners are an excellent alternative to a full-on hiking boot, as they're lightweight and require less breaking in. This pair weighs just 12.36 ounces (compared to more than 2 pounds for the Merrell hiking boots), yet they're still waterproof and have macaroni-shaped treads for traction. We also love the sock-like collar that helps keep dust and debris out of the shoe. Plus, these trail runners come in a variety of colors, many of which are safari-friendly.

Best Sandals

Birkenstock gizeh eva sandals.

Sandals or flip-flops are perfect for lounging around camp during the day, especially if there's a pool. If you're a fan of classic cork Birkenstocks, give this pair a go. They're made from lightweight EVA, a soft, springy plastic that is shock-absorbing and waterproof, so they're super easy to rinse off if they get dusty. And you can wear them with socks if it gets cold (if you don't mind making that style decision).

Travel + Leisure / Karen Chen

Best Gear and Accessories

Must-haves for your time out on safari include binoculars for spotting faraway animals; sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent for protection; and also a travel camera for capturing memorable moments. Also, think about the things you'll need outside of safari time, such as an adapter suitable for your destination and an e-reader to pass the time between drives.

Tilley LTM6 Airflo Broad Brim Hat

The sun is your worst enemy on safari, which is why all safari experts advocate for bringing a hat. "You’d be surprised how often guests forget to pack a hat or just don’t want to because hats seldom fit gracefully into luggage," Wheeler says. "But a great safari hat with a generous brim is pretty essential on the sunny plains. A ball cap is better than nothing, but sadly only does half the job unless you relentlessly flip it." This hat has a UPF 50 rating, providing great sun protection. It also has mesh ventilation to keep you cool.

Best Binoculars

Athlon optics midas binocular.

While it'd be lovely if all wildlife sightings happened within feet of your safari vehicle, the reality is that many sightings will be a bit more distant, which makes great binoculars a necessity. This pair has 8x magnification and a 42-millimeter objective lens diameter, which is what many experts recommend for general use. They're also extremely durable — they're waterproof and fogproof with rubber armor coating. But before going out to buy your own binoculars, check with your safari operator to see if they provide them for guests, which could save you precious space and weight in your luggage.

Best Sunscreen

Babo botanicals sheer mineral sunscreen lotion spf 50.

Even if you're wearing a wide-brim hat and a long-sleeve shirt, you should still take care to protect any exposed skin with a good sunscreen . While many mineral sunscreens can be rather thick, which leads to patchy application, we found this one to be buttery smooth and more like a true lotion. And though it initially left a slight white cast after application, this disappeared after a few minutes. With an SPF 50 rating, 80-minute water resistance rating, and no added fragrances, we think this is a top pick for skin protection — especially for those with sensitive skin. Make sure you reapply regularly! If you still end up getting sunburned, try an after-sun lotion with cooling ingredients like aloe.

Travel + Leisure / Melody Chiu

Best Sunglasses

Smith caper sunglasses with chromapop.

Pair your safari hat with sunglasses for maximum viewing comfort during a game drive. While we're fans of the classic shape, it's really the Chromapop lenses that are a standout — they enhance contrast and boost natural color, making the landscape (and wildlife!) even more vivid than you'd see with the naked eye. They're also smudge- and moisture-resistant, which means they're easy to clean in the bush. Perhaps most importantly, the sunglasses never budged when we wore them, so you don't have to worry about them flying off as your safari vehicle makes its way down bumpy roads. You can also order these sunglasses in your prescription.

Travel + Leisure / Lydia Price

Best E-reader

Amazon kindle paperwhite signature edition.

Game drives typically happen in the morning and the late afternoon, when the temperatures are a little cooler and animals are more active. In the middle of the day, you'll likely have a bit of downtime at your safari lodge . Bring an e-reader to help pass the time. Amazon's Kindle Paperwhite has 8 gigabytes of storage, plus a 10-week battery life, making it a traveler's best friend. It's also waterproof, so don't fear splashes by the pool. That said, it's not designed to be used underwater — it's waterproof for "accidental immersion" only — so it's a good idea to look for a protective case .

Best Bug Spray

Sawyer products 20% picaridin insect repellent.

Mosquitos can carry some pretty unpleasant diseases that affect humans, from malaria to yellow fever. Certain areas of Africa are known to have mosquito populations that carry these diseases, so it's crucial to protect yourself from their bites. Beyond medication and vaccines, insect repellent is a helpful tool to do so. While DEET is the chemical best known to keep mosquitoes away, it can often be oily on the skin. Picaridin, which you'll find in this repellent, has been proven to be just as effective as DEET, but it's a little kinder to your body. It's also more helpful than DEET in repelling flies. We found this lotion to apply smoothly and absorb quickly — and it has only the lightest citrus scent. Considering it effectively repelled mosquitos during our tests, that's a win in our book.

Best Adapter

Mingtong mingtong international travel adapter.

Different countries have different electrical outlets, so pack an adapter to ensure you'll be able to keep your phone and camera powered up. This model has four retractable plugs that cover the majority of countries' electrical outlets, and its socket also accepts all four plug shapes. It also has three USB ports and one USB-C port that allow you to charge multiple devices at once. Each port is a smart port, adapting energy needs to suit the specific device plugged into it.

Best Luggage and Bags

Given how remote many safari lodges are, you'll probably end up on tiny bush planes to get there. As such, most safari companies advise you to bring soft-sided luggage like duffel bags, which are easier to squeeze into the cargo areas of those planes. Some planes are able to handle bags with one hard side, which allows you to bring rolling duffels with extendable handles, while others might require true duffels — check about baggage rules with your safari operator before packing up for your trip.

Best Carry-on Duffel

Patagonia black hole 40l duffel bag.

If you're not able to bring a rolling bag on your safari, you'll have to go with a classic duffel. This carry-on-sized model is outfitted with detachable backpack straps, making carrying it much easier on your shoulders and arms than crossbody duffels. Made of water-resistant post-consumer recycled polyester with a TPU coating, this bag is tough enough to handle being checked into a cargo hold, too. What we love most about this bag is that it's deceptively spacious — it fits far more than you think it might, to the relief of overpackers. We also love that it collapses into itself for easy storage at home.

Travel + Leisure / Nick Kova

Best Checked Duffel

Briggs & riley zdx medium upright duffel bag.

Checking a bag instead? This wheeled duffel provides ample space for all your clothing and gear. We easily fit seven days' worth of clothing inside. One of our favorite features is a PVC-lined pocket that can store wet items, though we really liked all of the pockets that made organization a cinch. As you're packing this bag, remember to keep within your operator's weight limit, which is usually less than the 50-pound maximum of most major airlines. Fortunately, the bag itself is reasonably lightweight, weighing just 8.6 pounds thanks to its durable yet flexible nylon exterior. While it's "crushable" enough to be jammed into the cargo hold of a bush plane, we found it to be a very sturdy piece of luggage.

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Daypack

Gregory women's swift 22 h20 backpack.

"Bring a backpack to take on activities, it will come in handy as you shed layers and also for your camera equipment, sunblock, and water bottle," Avilino says. We recommend a hiking daypack , like this model which has a capacity of 16 liters — plenty of space for the basic gear you'll be taking with you on game drives. It even comes with a built-in 2-liter bladder for water. When we tested this backpack, we liked the customizable adjustments and extra padding that provided a high level of comfort, as well as the zippered pouch on the hip strap for easy access to your phone or lip balm.

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

What to Know Before You Pack for a Safari

Prepare to wear layers.

If you're going out on a morning game drive, it's going to be rather chilly when you hit the road. Most days you'll leave the warmth of your bed before sunrise, so you'll want to add some warm layers to your packing list (most safari lodges will also provide blankets for the drive). But it can get mighty hot mighty fast, so wear lightweight layers underneath for the midday heat.

Pack everything in a soft-sided bag

Most safari operators request guests pack all their belongings in a soft-sided bag like a duffle, as these are easier to stow in the tiny cargo holds of the bush planes commonly used to get from camp to camp. If you're daunted by the idea of lugging a duffle through airports on your way from home to your safari destination, opt for a wheeled duffle that's easy to transport.

Don't overpack clothing

Laundry services are frequently provided at safari camps (often for free!), so there's no need to overpack when it comes to clothing. Instead, leave more space in your bag for gear, whether that's your camera, your sun hat, or your shoes. And don't forget to leave space for anything you might buy — chances are you'll want to take home handmade souvenirs like jewelry or baskets.

Start with your wardrobe, which should mainly include casual clothing in natural colors that are suitable for outdoor activities. "The best advice I can give regarding clothing for a safari is simple — layers!" Avilino says. "They are key to being comfortable and well-prepared for the extremes in temperature that we can experience in southern Africa, particularly in our winter months, when early mornings and night-time can be really cold, but by lunchtime, you could be wearing short sleeves."

Beyond that, you'll want to bring a hat, binoculars, sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent, all of which you should store in an easy-to-carry daypack. Don't forget electronics like a camera, an e-reader, and all your chargers, plus an adapter.

"Absolutely do not pack camouflage clothing for safari, as it’s prohibited for non-military personnel in many African countries," Wheeler says.

Also, aside from safari specifically, several countries in Africa have strict bans on plastic bags and may confiscate them or fine travelers for using them, so don't pack these for your trip, even to hold your toiletries — instead, opt for a reusable toiletry bag .

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Stefanie Waldek is a travel writer who has gone on safaris across Eastern and Southern Africa. (And, in fact, she wrote this article while packing for a safari!)  She not only relied on her own experience, but also spoke with safari experts to determine the best things to pack for safari. While researching safaris, we spoke with Micato Safaris advisor Liz Wheeler, a member of Travel + Leisure's A-List , Andy Hogg , founder of the Bushcamp company , and Richard Avilino , a private guide with Wilderness Safaris .

Related Articles

What to Pack for Safari: The Ultimate Safari Packing List

The safari packing list below is based on our personal experience as well as the advice and recommendations from previous guests along with our partners in-country. follow the list and you won’t worry about leaving something behind or taking something that you won’t need on your african safari.  going gorilla trekking a complete list of trekking essentials is included at the bottom of this guide., safari clothing tips.

• Wear neutral colors: Khaki, light brown, green, and tan. White clothes will show up dust and dirt. Bright-colored clothing such as red makes you very conspicuous to the wildlife, especially on a walking safari.
• Dress casually: Safari only requires casual clothing unless specified (i.e. for luxury train journeys, etc.)
• Cover at night: Long sleeves and pants will help you stay warm and avoid mosquito bites.
• Be comfortable: Clothing should consist of non-synthetic material. Cotton is ideal.
• Use the laundry service: Most camps/lodges offer laundry service but will not launder undergarments. Choose clothing that is easily laundered.
• Dress in layers: Zip-off sleeves and lots of pockets are a plus. Bring a jacket and scarf along on game drives as temperatures drop quickly once the sun goes down in the evening.
• Provide complete sun protection – especially for the back of your neck
• Gas permeable so the heat generated from your head can escape
• Be water-absorbent on the inside and waterproof on the outside, in order to absorb sweat and cover you if you get caught in the rain
• Light-neutral, unisex safari hat
• Dark-neutral, unisex safari hat
• SPF baseball cap
• Don’t over-pack: Choose lightweight clothing options whenever possible since packing space is at a premium.
• Safari shirt
• Hooded safari jacket
• Fleece zip-up jacket
• White button down/tunic
• Tank top with built-in bra
• Quilted lightweight jacket
• Quilted jacket option 2
• Pullover sweater
• Lightweight, water-resistant safari pants
• Lightweight SPF pants in khaki
• Convertable pants
• Linen drawstring pants
• Linen pants option 2
• High waisted leggings in green
• High waisted leggings in green option 2
• Athletic joggers in dark olive and brick red
• Breathable, moisture-wicking bra
• Moisture-wicking briefs
• Moisture-wicking thongs
• Ray-Ban Aviator
• Ray-Ban Wayfarer
• Maui Jim Cat-Eye
• Buff wrap to protect your face from dirt or to keep your hair out of your face
• Blanket scarf or shawl  to wrap yourself up on cold flights, chilly morning and evening game drives, and cover your shoulders in places with a strict dress code
• Bug repellent socks
• Fleece pullover
• Lightweight jacket
• Softshell water-resistant jacket
• Breathable short sleeve shirt
• Moisture-wicking tank top
• Zip-off safari pants
• Water-resistant hiking pants
• Moisture-wicking boxers
• Maui Jim Rectangle
• Ray-Ban Aviators

LUGGAGE ON LIGHT AIRCRAFT TRANSFERS

Most airfields are over 3,500 feet above sea level and are located in the warm tropics, thereby reducing the permissible carrying capacity.

• Weight restrictions on charter flights are limited to a soft “barrel” (duffle bag) with a maximum of 33 lbs (44lbs in parts of Southern Africa). This includes your day pack and camera gear. Weight limits are strictly enforced. Only soft bags, preferably without wheels, will be accepted. This includes camera equipment and hand luggage. Hard suitcases are not permitted . The maximum dimensions allowed are 10” W x 11” H x 24” L. Light aircraft baggage compartments are only 10” high, so the pilots must have the ability to manipulate the bag into the compartment.

• Water-resistant Travel Duffel with Wheels
• Small Travel Day Pack
• Slimmer Small Travel Day Pack
• Medium Canvas Day Pack

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

• Place them in your checked luggage to keep track of your bags when flying to/from your destination
• Luggage tag
• Disposal shower caps
• Gallon freezer ziplock bags
• Adventure books
• Packing cubes are like drawers for your luggage
• Or this plug adaptor with a power strip to charge multiple devices at a time
• Travel-sized power strip to charge multiple devices at a time
• Nikon Prostaff 7s 10×42 Binocs

MEDICATIONS

Pack enough daily vitamins and prescribed medicine to last your entire trip. Keep your prescriptions in their original bottles and store them in your carry on bag. 

• Allergy remedy
• Rehydration salts like Liquid I.V.
• Pain reliever 
• Antiseptic cream
• Dramamine Natural Non-Drowsy
• Heartburn remedy
• Anti-diarrhea medicine
• Cold/flu tablets

Most accommodations provide basic toilet amenities (i.e. body soap, shampoo, conditioner). Any liquids and cream that go into your carry-on luggage must be in bottles of 3.4 ounces or less

• Travel toothbrush or toothbrush cover
• Toothpaste  and floss
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Men’s travel razor and shave cream
• Women’s travel razor and shave cream
• Sanitary requirements
• If you wear contacts, we recommend that you bring along a pair of glasses in case you get irritation from the dust.
• Face moisturizer
• Toner to cleanse your face of dirt
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect Repellent

Travel Tip: If you’re transitting through the U.K., and you pack liquids in your carry-on bag, they must be placed in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a liter and measures approximately 8in x 8in. Contents must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be sealed. You’re limited to 1 plastic bag per person and you must show the bag at the airport security point.

PHOTOGRAPHY

• Nikon CoolPix P900
• Smartphone gimbal stabilizer 
• Lens cleaner
• Extra lens caps
• Microfiber cloth
• Bean bag (tripod substitute)

GORILLA TREKKING ESSENTIALS

• Garden gloves to push away tree branches and for gripping tree roots – you will be happy to have clean hands when taking photos.
• Long waterproof socks and gaiters to prevent cuts and scratches and protect from army ants.
• Men’s
• Women’s
• A lightweight, foldable backpack is necessary for carrying all your essentials.

WHAT NOT   TO PACK

• Several countries in East Africa have banned single-use plastic bags (this includes customary plastic duty-free bags). Zip-lock bags are acceptable.
• Camouflage clothing is not recommended for travel in southern African countries. Camouflage or military-inspired clothing is prohibited when traveling in Zimbabwe.
• Drones are prohibited at most camps.
• Many camps cannot support electricity for hair dryers.

Complete African Safari Packing List [Checklist and Guide]

What do you need to pack for your upcoming safari? In this guide, you’ll get the complete African safari packing list – including 4 factors to consider when packing, how to pack minimalist, and just what to include with specific recommendations. We also include things that you shouldn’t bring on your safari.

Ultimate African Safari Packing List: Checklist and Guide

An African safari is the trip of a lifetime. To help you prepare – and enjoy it to the fullest – we put together the ultimate safari packing list.

You will learn what factors are important to consider when packing. Not only that, but we give you a comprehensive list of necessities. This will help first-time safari-goers figure out what is essential and what is a luxury. Without further ado, let’s dive in!

This post is divided into four primary sections:

• Minimalist Packing for Africa: Video
• 4 Factors: Packing for Your African Safari

What to Include on Your Safari Packing List

Pack for a purpose, minimalist packing for african safari.

More reading: Travelers Guide to the Best Anti-theft Gear

4 Factors: Packing for your African Safari

It can be difficult making a safari packing list. There are so many considerations – some that you may not realize until you are in Africa.

It isn’t always that easy to pick up a piece of missing gear – sometimes it’s just not available and other times the schedule won’t allow for running errands.

The following are things to keep in mind when making your ultimate safari packing list.

Packing light is important when making your safari packing list. Always give preference to a light, soft duffle bag when compared to a hardshell suitcase. Wheeling a suitcase is not advised, and you will find it much better to use your soft-sided bag. A bag without a frame (and without wheels) fits better into vans, trucks, and small airplanes.

Primary Bag: We recommend the super-popular Bago Travel Duffle Bag . It has an 85-liter capacity and comes in 14 colors (great for each member of your party).

For your day trips, a  backpack is perfect  and it will be much easier to carry around.

Daypack:  For your daypack, we recommend the Mountaintop 40 liter backpack . Water-resistant coating and padded laptop compartment keeps important things safe. And it has an additional rain cover – perfect for your gorilla trek.

If you are going to be based out of an urban area, see if your hotel or travel agent would be willing to keep your stuff safe. Only do this if you have complete trust in the business. Many world travelers have at least one story about theft and trusting the wrong people.

Are you taking a bush plane? If so, you will face even tighter luggage weight restrictions. These small, local flights take you between different parks and camps. Bush planes are usually more convenient and faster than moving by ground. However, the size and weight limit on the plane mean there isn’t much room for luggage.

Find out how much you can have ahead of time, and tweak your safari packing list accordingly. In southern Africa, the weight limit can be as low as 41 pounds. In East Africa, it gets as light as 33 pounds. This includes carry-ons, so you will have to be selective.

Another and really important, reason to go light on your safari packing list are souvenirs. Africa is booming with shops and even malls. On the savannah, tribes, and villages will be selling unique, one-of-a-kind art. Don’t forget gifts for back home!

2. Activities

Are you going on a walking trek or an open jeep safari? Either way, temperatures change throughout the day dramatically. You may start out with a chilly pre-dawn drive, and then find yourself sweating on the afternoon walk. That’s why layers are essential, even in the height of summer!

Will you be doing other activities while you are on vacation? If so, you will need to amend your safari packing list. If trekking for gorillas , you’ll want some rain gear.

If you’ll be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) later on your trip, you will need to bring cold weather clothes to combat the frozen temperatures at the top. Going on a safari for elephants and antelope will require sun protection gear .

3. Safari Camp, Lodge, Hotel, or Hostel

Not all of these choices will be available in every location you travel to. However, chances are you will stay at a safari camp or lodge at least one night. If you can, find out ahead of time  if your destinations have laundry service . This will help you decide how much you should pack.

Are you keen on doing your laundry at the camp or lodge? If so, there are some convenient on the go laundry bags you can pack. For those on a budget, pack a length of lightweight rope and detergent. Fortunately, most legitimate camps offer laundry services where you don’t have to lift a finger.

4. Planning

Planning is an unfortunate necessity of having a fun, enjoyable vacation. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is waiting until the last minute to make your safari packing list. The weight adds up fast, and the last thing you want to do is find better gear at the last minute.

Even if you do forget something, chances are you will be able to find it in the city where the safari departs. Besides, many guides want to make sure you have everything you need.

So, you may even be forced to purchase something that will add extra weight. Fortunately, this can be avoided by planning ahead.

More reading: How to Choose the Best Portable Water Filter

In this section, we’ll consider the following 9 categories.

They include safari clothing, footwear, sun protection, insect repellent, technology, health, personal toiletries, and other items.

More reading: Is Uganda Safe? Guide to Water, Crime, Disease, Sun

Clothing for a Safari

A safari is a casual event, so there is no need to overdress. Unless you plan on hitting up the nightlife in Kampala , leave your fancy clothes off your safari packing list! Everyone keeps it casual even at the most upscale lodges.

Light, loose clothing is recommended for safari wear. You will stay comfortable in the sun and dry out quickly in the occasional rainstorm.

However, don’t forget about the early morning cool down. You will want some pants and a long sleeve top to keep you snug. Although nights around camp include a fire, you may still need some extra layers. The important thing is, to be honest with yourself.

You will definitely want to cover up when the mosquitoes are at their worst during dusk and dawn. Technically, the lighter the suitcase the better, but you also need to balance weight with comfort. Don’t forget, many lodges have blankets to pass out in the cold evening.

The color of your clothing is another extremely important factor of your safari packing list.

Neutral shades are a must. You want anything that will camouflage you: shades of green, brown, olive, khaki, and beige are all acceptable and even encouraged!

3 Types of Clothing to Avoid Like the Plague:

• Don’t bring bright-colored clothing. These are only good for scaring the animals and angering your fellow companions. Remember, this is the trip of a lifetime. Even if this is your 100th safari, be respectful of others.
• Do not bring American T-shirts. These are the tees with logos and writing. You will stick out like a sore thumb. Additionally, leave the short shorts at home – you will want the extra protection in the wild.
• Don’t bring clothes that are dark blue or black. The two colors attract tsetse flies like no other, and these biting insects will make you miserable during a long safari day. These insects can bite right through your clothing, even jeans – which they are undeniably attracted to. Not even the most potent insect repellant will keep them away. Tsetse flies are also dangerous, as they can transmit African sleeping sickness (African trypanosomiasis).

Clothing Packing List:

• Swimsuit (1): most lodges and camps have a pool
• Lightweight fleece or jacket (1): For late nights and early mornings
• Scarf (1):  good to protect your face from blowing debris. Something like this moisture-wicking scarf by Kingree – multifunctional headwear, functions as a headband, scarf, dust mask, balaclava, and hairband. It comes in 35 different color patterns – great for men and women.
• Sports bra (2); for the ladies
• Money belt (1): This is always a great idea when traveling – especially internationally. This money belt by Alpha Keeper is one of the most popular travel belts and it comes in 7 colors and includes RFID blocking sleeves.
• PJ’s: You’ll want to be comfortable so you can get a good night’s sleep.
• Zip-off pants (2): Convertible pants save space and are super convenient. Start the cool morning with full pants and as the day warms up, remove the zip-off legs. These Columbia convertible pants ( mens and womens ) offer UPF 50 sun protection and convert to shorts with 10″ inseam.
• Long sleeve shirts (2): With sleeves that can be rolled up. Similar to the convertible pants, a long sleeve shirt with button tabs (for rolling up sleeves) are great for cooler mornings hot days. These Columbia Bahama shirts ( mens and womens ) have UPF 30 and are made with quick-dry fabric.
• Short-sleeved shirt (4): These are great for layering. Choose a breathable fabric to keep cool and dry. These Vapor Apparel ( mens and womens ) are UPF 50+ sun protection.
• Socks (4): Similar to the shirts above, you’ll want some moisture-wicking fabric to keep your feet dry and cool. These performance Bering socks ( mens and womens ) feature breathable mesh, moisture-wicking, and reinforced heel and toe.
• Underwear (4):  Here are some suggestions for underwear for outdoor activities .
• Sandals: Flip flops or close-toed sports sandals – to wear around camp at night

Pro Tip: On the plane, wear one pair of safari attire. This will save room in your luggage, and you can wash it later.

The best footwear to bring depends on what kind of safari you are taking.

Walking Safari / Trekking: If you are going to be mostly participating in walking safaris, you will want to prioritize comfort and stability. Hiking boots would be perfect for this type of situation.

Driving Safari: On the other hand, Jeep safaris calls for closed-toed sports sandals and hiking shoes. A pair of sandals may not be such a bad idea for walking around the bush camp. However, they are not necessary if there isn’t enough room or weight left.

If you’re going on a gorilla trek you’ll likely encounter wet conditions. Here are the best shoes for hiking in water .

Sun Protection

A safari means you will be spending a significant amount of time outside. This requires good protection from a more intense sun than most of us are used to. No matter walking or riding in a vehicle, this is a must!

• Sunglasses: The sun on your safari has the potential to be brutal! The best way to protect yourself is to buy a quality pair of polarizing sunglasses. This pair of Torege Polarized Sunglasses comes with 5 interchangeable lenses (including block polarized,  transparent and yellow). They are UV400, blocking 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
• Safari sun hat: You won’t just want any hat. Try to find something that will protect your face, neck, and ears. Additionally, look for a head covering that has a neck strap so it doesn’t fly off as your Jeep flies across the grasslands. Don’t find out the hard way that there is actually a reason behind silly safari hats! Dena and I love our Outdoor Research and Coolibar hats. Here’s a safari hat you might consider: Coolibar UPF 50+ Wide Brim Hat ( mens and womens ). Here’s our full guide for the best safari hats .
• Sunblock: The higher the SPF, the better. As stated before, most of us aren’t used to being so close to the equator. The sun can really take a toll on our skin, and sunburn or sun poisoning is an uncomfortable alternative.
• Long sleeve shirts and long pants: These will protect you from sunburn and insects! Yes, these were already mentioned. Aside from your personal comfort, the right shirt and pants will protect you from the harsh sun

Insect Repellent

• Mosquito netting – I can almost promise your bush camp will provide mosquito netting. However, find out ahead of time, and make 100% sure. This is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses.
• Picaridin (20%) – This powerful and safe bug spray ingredient keeps biting insects away. You can even put it directly on your skin! Outside of the United States, Picaridin is known as KBR 3032 and icaridin.
• OLE (30%) – Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) is featured in Repel Naturals and Off! Botanicals among others. However, it is not recommended for children under 3.
• PMD – Para-menthane-diol (PMD) is another botanical bug repellent. Sometimes it is used in conjunction with OLE.
• 2-undecanone and IR3535 – Both of these are man-made, and neither lasts as long as the first 3. However, they are relatively safe and can be combined with other products on this list.

Here’s how to keep biting insects away (naturally).

• Camera:  A basic point-and-shoot will do the trick. However, the better the camera the better photos. Seeing as this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, you may want to purchase something with better quality. Many people choose to bring a DSLR. Make sure you carry your camera in a case because a safari is not exactly a clean adventure! Don’t forget your spare memory card! Here’s our guide to choosing the best safari camera .
• Batteries: If you are using a camera, be sure to add extra batteries to your safari packing list. This is so important! Batteries are a true commodity out in the savannah, so if you don’t want to run out, you better bring extra!
• Cell phone: Yes, bring your cell phone. This goes double if you don’t have a tablet or a designated separate camera. Mobile phones are taking better and better photos. There are even monoculars you can purchase to increase your phone’s natural zoom. Monoculars like this 12 x 50 model by Cosbity that is compatible with most current phone models. These can turn your cell phone into a powerful zoom camera.
• Electrical adaptor: Although most camps provide universal plug converters, it is a good idea to bring one just in case. You may be staying at hotels or other places that are not as thoughtful.
• Chargers:  If you remember anything, remember your chargers. Most of the technology that’s useful on a safari requires charging. Instead of bringing an electrical adaptor, consider a solar charger. This is not only more environmentally friendly, but you will be able to charge multiple devices from the same platform at the same time! Here’s a nice set of solar panels for charging phones and cameras.
• Tablet: Basically anything you can use to read, play games, and otherwise entertain yourself in any downtime. Usually, print books are a go-to, but they might weigh too much for your safari packing list.
• Yellow Fever Health Card – This is necessary for some African nations (like Tanzania). You have to get these from your doctor, so don’t wait until the last minute! Aside from vaccinations, don’t forget your necessary medications. According to the CDC , yellow fever vaccination is only required for entering Uganda if you are traveling from a country with risk of YFV transmission and are a minimum of 1 year of age.
• First aid kit:  Out in the African bush, the nearest town could be hours or even days away. That means catching a cold could turn into a miserable experience. That is why it’s important to pack some cough drops, Sudafed, diarrhea medication, aspirin, Dramamine, and allergy medication. Avoid bringing a real first aid kit, as most lodges and guides have their own. Simply think about what you may need if you start feeling sick.
• Prescriptions: Before you get on the plane, make sure you have all of your necessary prescriptions. You may even want to ask the doctor for Cipro. This medication will help in times of intense stomach pain. Everyone’s body reacts differently when exposed to different microbes, and you won’t want to stay behind due to a sick stomach. Furthermore, check with your tour company to see if malaria medication should be on your list.
• Hand sanitizer:  Why not protect yourself as much as humanly possible? Getting sick on vacation sucks, but getting sick on a safari could be disastrous. There are times when clean water for hand washing will not be available.
• Sleep aids– A good night’s sleep is important to fully enjoy your time on the safari. Lack of sleep can lead to a bad attitude and eye fatigue. If you know you have problems falling asleep or staying asleep in new places, bring what you need. This could be melatonin, Z-Quil, Ambien, or anything else that’s a legal sleep aid. Also, bring earplugs. Hippos like to snore quite loudly!

Personal Toiletries

Whenever possible, use travel-sized containers to save on weight and room.

• Shampoo / Conditioner (or all-in-1)
• Toothbrush / Toothpaste
• Moisturizer
• Sanitary products
• Contact solution

Other Items to Consider

• Cash (in local currency):  There are no ATM’s in the bush, but there are things to buy with cash. Furthermore, most places in the backcountry do not have credit card scanners. You will also need cash to tip the guides after your awesome safari! Make sure to check the country’s policy on money. Some places only accept US dollars minted from 2006 on. That’s because all older bills are easier to forge.  Learn more about currency in Uganda .
• Waterproof bag:  Light and compact, a waterproof bag can come in handy when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Even if you have dustproof and waterproof equipment, the rain will turn any dust into mud. A waterproof bag allows you to stick your stuff inside for the duration of the moisture!

• Glasses:  Unfortunately, the conditions can sometimes get too dry for the average contact wearer. That is why it is important for contact lens wearers to bring their glasses.
• Water bottle:  Some camps provide water bottles. However, make sure ahead of time. If you bring your own, you can use it in the airports!

If you want to make a positive difference, think about adding a purpose to your safari packing list. These projects help local communities and are affiliated with many different safari lodges and bush camps.

Pack for a Purpose usually needs medications, clothing, school supplies, and feminine products. Check out their website for more information, and to see what safari businesses are currently giving. The site also includes suggestions and tips for packing these products.

Here’s more about  Pack for a Purpose: Africa . And here are the eight  Ugandan lodges and safaris that participate.

What’s on Your Ultimate African Safari Packing List?

Hopefully, we have demystified the ins and outs of packing for a safari. With proper guidance, making a safari packing list is not at all difficult.

The main things to remember are to do your homework and to put together a plan. As long as you are prepared, you will have a great time!

Did we forget something? Have a packing tip? Let us know in the comments!

Traveler, Writer, Entrepreneur

Hi, I'm Dena Haines . And I'm co-founder of Storyteller Travel . I love to cover food, animals, and destinations around the world.

I also blog about photography at Storyteller Tech .

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This is one of the most elaborate and helpful travel guide on packing for a safari, i have read.

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The Ultimate Packing List for an African Safari

An essential element of planning the perfect African safari is packing all the right things! With a detailed and accurate safari packing list for Africa curated by experts, you'll be equipped for anything you might encounter on your trip of a lifetime.

What to Pack On a Safari

• Safari essentials
• Safari medication
• African safari gear

Don't forget...

• Travellers are prohibited from bringing plastic into Kenya and Rwanda
• Bring a pair of glasses instead of contact lenses due to dust storms
• Take out enough cash in advance as there are no ATMs in the parks

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Save this pocket guide for help when packing!

First-Aid Kit

• Anti-malaria tablets
• Antihistamines
• Anti-nausea tablets (for bumpy flights)
• Diarrhoea medication
• Bandaids and gauze
• Rubbing alcohol or antiseptic spray
• Insect repellent

• Pants and long sleeve t-shirts for bush walks and game drives (to minimise sun exposure)
• Comfortable closed-toe shoes (no bright colours)
• Flip flops for the camp
• A wide-brimmed hat (wide enough to cover face and neck)
• Windbreaker/ fleece jacket 
• Bandana (can act as both a hat and sweatband; can be dipped in cold water on hot days)
• Sports bra for ladies 
• Pack minimal - there will most likely be a washing service
• Skip the flashy colours, and opt for khaki and tan (white is not practical, blue and black attract Tse-Tse flies) 
• Do not pack clothing with a camouflage pattern (banned in Zimbabwe)
• Avoid delicate clothing or materials that take longer to dry

Safari Gear

• Camera with dust cover and waterproof bag
• Extra memory cards and batteries
• Binoculars (magnification power 8x is recommended) 
• Electrical adapters
• Headlamp/flashlight 
• Leave the drone at home (they are banned in most locations)

Safari Packing FAQs

What to pack for a safari in kenya.

Be sure you bring money in USD, preferably printed after 2004 to eliminate any concerns regarding possible forgery. Your money should be in good condition without any tears or rips. You should also bring two printed copies of your tour itinerary, flight details, visas and any other relevant travel documents. Pack your anti-malaria tablets and electrical adapters with a plug type G . Don't forget that plastic of all kinds is banned in Kenya . 

What to pack for a safari in Kruger?

When you're heading to Kruger National Park, you will need to pack anti-malaria medication . In all of South Africa, you'll encounter plug types D, M and N but to be safe, we recommend packing a universal power adapter . Kruger is known for unexpected temperature changes, so be sure to always have a jacket or pashmina in your backpack should the weather become cold without notice.

What to wear on safari evenings?

Evenings on your safari can get quite cold, so pack long sleeves, pants and a fleece jacket to stay warm. Depending on the type of accommodation during your safari, there may be a more official dress code in place, but dining is usually casual, so no shirts or dresses are needed, and flat shoes are recommended .

Can you wear jeans on a safari?

Yes, you can. However, it is not recommended. With high temperatures, it’s best to wear breathable materials such as cotton. Save jeans for evenings at the camp.

What are the best luggage types for a safari trip?

Skip the hard shell, large rectangular luggage in favour of a soft duffel bag or backpack . In most cases, you will be restricted to a weight limit of 15 kg for all your luggage so pack accordingly.

What colours should you wear on a safari?

When packing clothes and shoes for your safari, avoid bright colours, and specifically avoid black, blue and red. Neutral tones are the best and consider packing beige or khaki coloured clothing. Please note: wearing clothes with a camouflage pattern is banned in some countries and it's best to avoid it altogether.

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What to Pack: African Safari Packing List

By Jennifer Dombrowski 31 Comments

Packing for an African safari is vastly different than packing for just about any other trip, and it’s often a challenge for first time safari goers. Not only do most safari goers have weight restrictions on bush flights (a typical weight restriction is 15 kilograms or 33 pounds total per person, including camera equipment and carry-ons), but you also have the challenge of knowing which types of clothes to wear on safari are appropriate. We’ve been on safari twice now in Tanzania and Kenya, and have put together our tips for what to pack for an African safari.

Preparing for an African Safari

What to pack for a safari isn’t just about the clothing, either. There’s a lot of little quirky things about traveling to Sub-Saharan Africa that you need to know before you go. We either got tips in advance from the awesome safari companies we went with, or learned about various policies along the way.

1. Prepare your documents 

Many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa require your passport to be valid for six months beyond your travel dates in Africa. They also have requirements like a certain number of consecutive blank pages being available in your passport. So be sure to pull out your passport well in advance of your trip, and thoroughly review all the entry requirements for each country you’re visiting. US citizens can get the most up-to-date entry requirements on travel.state.gov .

In addition to your passport being in order, you should obtain a Yellow Health Card and have it completed by your doctor. The Yellow Heath Card is an internationally recognized record of vaccinations endorsed by the World Health Organization .

Some countries require visitors to obtain certain vaccinations as part of their entry requirements. These vaccinations should be completed with the date of administration, the date the vaccination is valid until and be certified with a stamp and signature from your doctor.

All passengers on our flight to Tanzania had to present their Yellow Health Cards to an official that boarded the plane to verify the documents the moment we touched down. Some countries won’t even allow you off the plane if you can’t present this card, so it’s equally as important to have as your passport.

The other thing to pay close attention to are visas. Many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa require a visa for entry. Often a visa upon arrival is offered, and you should be prepared to pay for your visa with cash as electricity operates on the grid and connections can be unreliable for card machines. US dollars are widely accepted, though your US dollar bills should be printed after 2006. Additionally, ensure your bills are in excellent condition. US dollar bills with tears or writing on them won’t be accepted.

2. Cash is king in Africa

You won’t find credit card machines in the African bush and you’ll likely visit at least one village where you can pick up some unique souvenirs. US dollars are fairly widely accepted, and you can also easily take out local currency from an ATM when you arrive at the international airport.

Know that tipping is common throughout Sub-Saharan Africa and you should have cash on hand to tips guides and service staff. Your safari company should answer questions and provide a guide on tipping etiquette. In our experience for a luxury safari, you should plan to tip your guide between $20 – $30 per day per couple.

Some of the airstrips also have coolers with drinks for purchase, though if you’re choosing a luxury safari all drinks are typically included.

Note that particularly in East Africa, only crisp US bills newer than 2014 are accepted. This is because banknotes produced prior than in the past 10 years were very easily forged. We definitely ran into this when a bill older than 2006 made it into our mix and was refused. It’s not a myth!

What to Pack for an African Safari

The primary activity on an African safari is going on game drives, which are what safaris are called in Africa. While there are often additional activities like walking safaris offered, the majority of your time will be spent sitting in safari vehicles while you and your guide look for the various wildlife you’ve come to see. That’s why it’s paramount that your African safari clothes are practical and comfortable.

We break everything down for you below with further explanation, but your packing list for safari should include the following essentials and will work no matter if you need a 2-day or 2-week safari packing list:

• duffel or soft-sided bag
• TSA approved clear toiletry case
• 2 pairs of pants in a breathable fabric in earth tones
• 1 – 2 long sleeve shirts in chambray or earth tones
• 3 layering tanks or tshirts
• utility jacket
• light scarf
• wide brim hat with chin strap
• closed toe shoes like trail runners or fashion sneakers with good traction
• waterproof dry bag
• moisturizer
• insect repellent with Deet
• conditioner
• plug adapters / convertors
• USB flash drive
• Memory cards for your camera
• first aid kit

1. Luggage and Packing Essentials

You’ll likely be arriving to safari destinations like the Serengeti or Masai Mara on a bush flight. These are small planes, often only a Cesna Caravan, that have strict weight limits. They also require that passengers travel with soft-sided luggage that can easily be stuffed into compartments.

Some airlines like AirKenya and SafariLink offer luggage storage for a small fee. This can be a convenient option if you’re returning to the same airport. Just bring a duffel bag with you to take along to your safari destination, and store the rest of your luggage. But if you’re continuing on to another safari destination, you’ll have to take everything along with you.

On our most recent safari to the Masai Mara, I opted to take my spinner hard case and store it with AirKenya. I love my Bric’s X-Bag 22″ Folding Duffel . The large duffel bag is made from a water resistant materials, is sturdy and is classy with its leather trim. It easily folds down in to a small zippered pouch that is perfect for packing. The pouch also comes with a strap, so it can be used as a cross body purse.

You can use packing cubes to keep everything organized in the duffel and add a little extra sturdy protection. Choose lightweight ones like these Shacke water resistant packing cubes that come in a 4-pack of different sizes. And you’ll notice a theme where we like things that their pouch can be dual purpose. The pouch they come in makes a great laundry bag.

One other thing to invest in as a TSA approved clear toiletry bag, and this is essential for your Kenya packing list. Some African countries like Kenya and Tanzania have banned single-use plastic bags, inclusive of the ones provided by the airport. Kenya’s plastic bag ban law is the strictest in the world. Not only are plastic bags confiscated, but anyone caught using them faces a maximum penalty of $37,000 or a jail term of up to four years.

DO NOT bring any sort of plastic bag in to Kenya or Tanzania. Instead, especially if you like to carry on, get a TSA approved clear toiletry bag. I have the Lermende clear toiletry bag I’ve used for a while. It’s been accepted at many airports and I’ve never had an issue using it to carry on my liquids.

2. African Safari Clothes

Know that the 15 kilo weight allotment adds up quickly. When it comes to what to wear in Africa, comfort should be prioritized over anything else when you’re spending time in the African bush. But packing sensibly doesn’t have to mean frumpy, either.

Laundry Service

Another perk of luxury safaris like SkySafari and Angama Mara is that laundry service is included at their camps and lodges. Knowing we had laundry service available helped us pare down to the essentials for our 10-day safaris in Tanzania and Kenya.

With laundry service available, you don’t need to pack any more than 2 pairs of pants, 2 long sleeve shirts and one pair of pajamas. We recommend bringing enough underwear for your entire trip or washing them out yourself since it is considered taboo to include your underwear in your laundry in Africa (and some camps or lodges like Loisaba Lodo Springs will not wash them). Soap flakes are usually provided to wash out whatever you’d like yourself in your tent or room.

Where to Buy Safari Clothes

You don’t need to head out to any special store to buy clothes for an African safari. Chances are you have some perfectly suitable things already in your wardrobe. If not, we recommend your favorite outdoor retailer for safari appropriate clothing.

We like Columbia Sportswear , personally, since their outdoor clothing is made with their special material. Look for pants with Omni-Shield that keeps you dry by repelling moisture and stains and Omni-Shade with built in SPF 50 to protect you from the sun, like the women’s Saturday Trail stretch pants .

Then I add pieces like tank tops that I layer under an Old Navy classic chambray shirt . Chambray is stylish and lightweight enough to wear even during the hottest months. Roll the sleeves up to just below the elbow, and you can roll them down if/when you start to sunburn.

Pants and Long Sleeves

If you’re going on safari in East Africa in places like Kenya or Tanzania, then you’ll be just a few degrees away from the equator where the sun is strong. Even though it might seem counter intuitive to pack pants and long sleeves when the weather will be hot, you’ll be glad you did for protection from the sun. Even Tim learned this lesson when he opted for shorts and ended up with painfully sun-burnt knees after a game drive in the hot sun in Meru National Park.

Long sleeves and pants also help minimize bites and protect you from scrapes on walking safaris. Shorts, skirts and tank tops can be fine around the camp or lodge, but for game drives and bush walks stick to lightweight pants and long sleeve shirts.

Earth Tones

Clothing in earth tones is essential. Africa has a fly called the tsetse fly, which is a biting fly. They are attracted to dark blue and black, and tsetse fly traps are a blue or black cloth strung up in the trees where they are active.

Wearing blue or black makes you a tsetse fly trap and they can (and will) bite right through your clothing. Insect repellent is not effective in keeping tsetse flies away and the tsetse fly has been linked with a disease called sleeping sickness.

Utility Jacket

Game drives typically begin early and you’re out and about by 5am – 6am. The temperatures between night and day can be drastic, and you’ll practically experience all four seasons in one day.

Mornings are cool and a jacket is necessary. A cute utility jacket is also functional since all the pockets come in to use for easy access to lens cleaning cloths and lenses for your camera. You don’t have to spend a fortune – my Old Navy utili t y jacket was perfect.

Don’t bother with packing a rain jacket. Most safari companies provide ponchos for guests if you do have a rainy day. The safari vehicles also can be closed up. So skip the extra weight of a rain jacket that you may only need once or twice.

Light Scarf and a Hoo-rag

I also like to pack a light scarf . Wrap up it in to keep warm in the early morning, then use it to protect yourself from the sun when you strip off some layers under the hot midday sun.

In addition to a light scarf, which can whip in the wind and get snagged on bushes, I also recommend packing a hoo-rag . If you don’t know what a hoo-rag is, it’s a tubular bandana outdoor enthusiasts have included on their essential gear lists forever. You’ll definitely want one for going on safari because of the hoo-rag’s many purposes.

Ladies can use it as a headband to keep hair off your face on windy days. It will protect your head from the hot African sun no matter if you’re a man or woman. And it can serve as a scarf to keep your neck warm in the early morning or late evening when the air can have quite a bit of chill to it.

Safari Dress

I recommend only bringing along one casual dress for the evenings around camp. I do like to have one dressier outfit to make a night feel a bit more special. Columbia Sportswear Super Bonehead II Sleeveless Dress is 100% cotton, casual enough for wearing around a city like Nairobi during the day and can be dressed up for a night out.

Nearly every evening we arrived back around sunset and went straight to drinks around a campfire, a bush barbecue or hung out having a drink in the common lodge areas before dinner. We almost never went back to our tent or room to change first.

One ladies safari clothes essential is a sports bra . Trust me. The roads (or more likely dirt tracks) are bumpy and you will thank me for adding a sports bra to your safari packing list essentials.

Safari Footwear

You definitely don’t need to tote along heavy hiking boots. Not only will they be too hot, but hiking boots are clunky to pack. Really, any pair of sturdy closed-toe shoes will do.

Tim was perfectly fine with his usual Merrell Moab hiking shoe in Gortex , even on the bush walk we did along the Grumeti River in the Serengeti. These also held up like a champ in super muddy conditions, and were easy to clean after.

I prefer to wear a good pair fashion sneakers that I can dress up a bit with a cute dress in the evening. I like the Reef Cushion shoes since it has anatomical arch support and a cushioned foot bed that keeps me comfortable, even though I suffer from plantar fascitis. The tread is also good, so the Reef Iris can also be worn for bush walks.

I also like to bring a pair of lightweight waterproof hiking shoes like my Merrell Siren 3 . You’ll be thankful for a pair of waterproof shoes with good traction like this, particularly on wet days. Some parts of Africa don’t see rain often, and when it does rain the ground can quickly turn into a muddy river. This exact thing happened to us on a pretty wet morning in Nairobi at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

In Africa, flip flops are worn only around the pool. Bring a pair for walking around in your tent and going to the pool at your camp or lodge.

There’s really no special African safari hat you need, either. Stick to a wide brim style with a chin strap. The wide brim will help keep the sun off your face and neck. The chin strap will keep the hat from flying off when your guide gets word on the CB radio about that leopard or rhino sighting, then goes rushing off to make sure you see it.

I love the Columbia Global Adventure Hat because it’s packable. The hat retains its shape no matter how you stuff it in to your bag. And bonus that the hat has Columbia’s Omni-Wick technology with a sweat band inside and Omni-Shade SPF 50 protection. It definitely helped to keep my scalp from getting sunburned, which is a problem I always have being blonde.

Swim Suit and Casual Clothes for Around Camp

Many camps, especially luxury camps, have pools these days. There’s no better place to be than lounging in the pool during the hot afternoons between game drives. Don’t forget a swim suit!

You can also be more casual around camp in a pair of shorts and a tank top or tshirt. It’s not necessary to stick to neutral colors either, like when you’re out on game drives.

We like Old Navy , where you can find a variety of linen and linen-blend clothing items, at reasonable prices. Linen is perfect as a breathable fabric on hot afternoons.

Amazingly, we still saw tons of people inappropriately attired for safari. Not only will you stand out to other people, packing your favorite jeans or black shirt could also make you a magnet for tsetse flies. And your neon yellow trainers could scare off the animals on a bush walk.

3. Waterproof Bag

Dust is a problem and hard on your camera equipment. And if you have any rainy days like one we had, you’ll be combating both rain and sticky mud. Having a waterproof dry bag large enough to stick your equipment and anything else you want to stay dry or dust/mud free will definitely come in handy. It folds down small and weighs basically nothing, so is easy enough to pack.

4. Skin and Hair Care

The African bush is dry, so don’t leave home without your favorite moisturizer and a good conditioner. Even though all of the Elewana’s camps and lodges and Angama Mara provided shampoo and conditioner, I always prefer to bring my own.

You don’t need to bring the big bottle of your favorite shampoo and conditioner. I have a set of Cool Gear Go-Gear Silicone Travel Containers that are TSA approved and that I love. I just fill them back up with my L’Occitane Aromachologie Repairing Shampoo and Conditioner (which is sold in environmentally friendly refill bags) to keep my hair healthy at home and on the road.

For an incredible moisturizer, I love Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream . It doesn’t make my combination and sensitive skin breakout. And even in very dry Sub-Saharan Africa, my skin doesn’t get flaky and dry as long as I use moisturizer. A little goes a long way and I pare down from the somewhat heavy 2 oz jar the product comes in by scooping some out to fill my travel containers with.

Our lips also get very dried out and cracked in such dry conditions. I like Dr. Lipp’s Original Nipple Balm . It’s famous for being an ultra rich moisturizer that actually absorbs in to your lips to hydrate them and I’m a convert since I started using it.

The one other thing I’ve come to love to keep my skin at its best is my FOREO Luna Mini . It’s a facial cleansing brush that uses t-sonic pulsations to clean below the skin’s surface, remove dead skin and make-up and unclogs pores. It’s rechargeable and charging it up at home before a trip lasts around 30 days. It’s small and light enough that it’s easy to travel with. You use it for one minute each time you wash your face, and it’s seriously like getting a mini facial daily.

5. Plug Convertors

One of the things I love about Elewana Collection and Angama Mara is that all of their camps and lodges provide several universal plug adapters for your use in your room or tent. We always bring one of our own anyway, just in case. Plus having an extra means we can charge up all our electronic devices and camera batteries without having to pick and choose.

Africa uses 220 – 240 volt electricity at 50hz. Each country can be different with the plug type, so verify the plug type for the countries you’re visiting here before your trip.

Many electronics these days are dual voltage, meaning they can operate on the 110 volts that the US operates on as well as 220 – 240 volts that much of the rest of the world operates on with only a plug adapter. Cell phone chargers, camera chargers and even laptop chargers are all dual voltage these days and you need nothing more than a plug adapter to plug them in. Things like hairdryers and flatirons often are not dual voltage and require a convertor in order to use them.

6. USB Flash Drive and Memory Cards

Capturing some incredible photos to remember your time on safari by and share with family and friends back home is likely important to you. Some luxury safari brands like Angama Mara are offering guest experiences like photography workshops with their photographer in residence, or even just the opportunity to rent cameras or lenses.

The opportunity to borrow equipment is an excellent amenity to look out for, as good lenses appropriate for photographing wildlife can cost nearly as much as the trip itself. Just remember to pack a USB flash drive to save any photos from the cameras you borrow or bring your own extra memory cards to use.

7. Insect Repellent with Deet

Another thing Elewana and Anagama Mara were both terrific about was providing insect repellent and sunscreen in the safari vehicles. We would still encourage you to pack your own, though.

An insect repellent with deet is best since there are several diseases that biting insects in Africa can carry, including malaria. But if you’re concerned about the effects of deet, an all-natural citronella repellent will also get the job done. Just be sure you consistently spray yourself.

We were definitely diligent with spraying ourselves on both our skin with an all-natural citronella repellent and then again on our clothes every couple of hours. We had very minimal insect bites between dressing appropriately with long pants and consistently using repellent.

There is a risk of malaria in both Tanzania and Kenya. Malaria prevention is important when traveling to malaria endemic areas and in preparation for all of our safari trips, we have taken preventive malaria medication prescribed by a doctor. Runway Health is a service that makes routine doctor visits for things like preparing for safari travel a breeze. With just a short questionnaire about your travel plans and health history, Runway gives you an online consultation with a physician and ships your prescribed medications to you directly in just a few days.

8. First Aid Kit

Remember that you are in the African bush and the nearest town or village might be hours away by plane. Be sure to pack yourself a first aid kit with medications you might need like aspirin, cold medicine in case you do catch a bug, an antihistamine like Benadryl for reactions to insect bites, diarrhea medication like Immodium, sunscreen and cough drops or throat lozenges.

If you want to take something to head off diarrhea before it can start, try Travelan . You take it as a dietary supplement before meals to assist with traveler’s diarrhea prevention. Especially when traveling to Africa where your stomach isn’t conditioned to resist things that could be in treated and potable water, it’s a good preventative measure to take. Bathrooms are basically non-existent in the African bush and it’s not the place where you want to experience tummy woes.

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About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

March 5, 2014 at 10:53 AM

Definitely a handy-list there, thanks for sharing. I would definitely have not thought to bring a fleece. BTW that one photo of “what not to wear on safari” is awesome LOL 😉

Jennifer Dombrowski says

March 10, 2014 at 3:17 PM

I really considered just leaving the fleece home. Surely I wouldn’t need it during Tanzania’s hottest month! But I ended up wearing it on a few occasions, so I was glad to have carried it with me in the end.

Heather says

March 5, 2014 at 5:07 PM

Great tips! I really need to get myself a waterproof bag, even just for rainy Europe.

And I second Derek, that “what not to wear’ photo is hysterical! Who would dress like that on safari? I’d be covered from head to toe to avoid insect bites! (And now I know not to wear blue or black!) 🙂

March 10, 2014 at 3:18 PM

Worst of all, we snapped the lovely lady in the floral jumper on a day that it was pretty chilly! She had to have been absolutely freezing in that get up.

Devlin @ Marginal Boundaries says

March 5, 2014 at 7:29 PM

Really good tips, I’ll make sure to leave my black shirts at home, don’t need to become a walking fly trap.

March 10, 2014 at 3:22 PM

No, you certainly don’t want to be a walking fly trap! Those tse tse flies really hurt when they bite and they will bite right through your clothes.

Val-This Way To Paradise says

March 6, 2014 at 5:21 AM

Great and helpful packing list! I would have to go shopping…almost everything I own is blue or black!

March 10, 2014 at 3:23 PM

I did a little safari shopping myself before the trip. Now I’m prepared for our next safari!

Travel with Kevin and Ruth says

March 6, 2014 at 4:39 PM

A yellow fever vaccination is NOT required for Tanzania unless you are arriving there from a country that has a risk of yellow fever.

March 6, 2014 at 6:40 PM

We didn’t say that the vaccination is required. We said that the yellow health card is required, which you must present upon arrival and lists your vaccination records.

March 6, 2015 at 9:46 PM

I read this blog too soon before my trip to do anything about the yellow fever issue. My wife and I just passed through immigration at JRO this morning so I thought I’d share my take, since this had me worried.

It’s true that they ask for the cert before your passport, but if you tell them you’re coming from the US, you don’t need it. That said, I think it’s a really good idea to get the shot before leaving the US, and it isn’t for any paranoia about contracting yellow fever or BS altruistic reason.

In our case, our connecting flight to JRO was from Kenya. Normally you wouldn’t have to go through Kenya immigration for this, but since our flight to JRO the previous night was cancelled, we did have to as we spent the night in Kenya. I think we were pretty lucky the official at JRO a didn’t ask too many questions or check our passports for the Kenyan visa.

You can also pay $50 USD at JRO to get the shot if you need it, but at that point you’re deciding to let someone in Africa stick a needle in you. Just get the shot in the US (or whatever first world country you’re visiting from) so you don’t need to worry about it further if your travel plans go south.

March 6, 2014 at 9:05 PM

What exactly is a “yellow fever health card”?

March 10, 2014 at 3:26 PM

It’s an official record of immunizations by the World Health Organization. Your primary care physician will have them on hand and properly fill them out for you after reviewing your medical records. This card is required and you must show it to officials upon entering Tanzania.

Suzanne says

March 7, 2014 at 5:40 AM

Great list! I had a ten day safari subject to a medium duffel bag only so I had to be super attentive to pack only what was needed. Surprised by so many people with multiple bags of luggage and all with the wrong clothes – blues, black, prints, hot pink, etc. I second the sports bra – a necessity! I would also add a few power bars or snacks for early morning game drive before breakfast – we often skipped our game drive coffee break as we were at a sighting.

March 10, 2014 at 3:28 PM

Good tips Suzanne! That was something else that we really enjoyed about SkySafari – our vehicle was also packed with drinks and snacks so we didn’t have to worry about the extra weight of bringing snacks with us. And even though you are mostly just sitting, you do still get the munchies!

Arianwen says

March 9, 2014 at 4:13 AM

Great tips! I made the mistake of only having two long-sleeved tops – one was blue and one was black. Those tsetse flies sure do sting when they bite!

March 10, 2014 at 3:30 PM

No kidding! Even with the earthy tones, a couple tse tse flies got me. And you sure do know when they bite! What a nuisance those things are.

March 9, 2014 at 8:24 PM

Thanks for sharing this really helpful list. I will definitely make use of it when I take part in my first Safari!

March 10, 2014 at 3:31 PM

I hope you make it on a safari soon, Stef. You will absolutely love it!

Ron | Active Planet Travels says

March 27, 2014 at 8:51 PM

Nice packing list! I’m going to have to look back on this in the Fall when I finally make it to Africa. So stoked!

Marsha says

April 11, 2014 at 8:13 PM

Great post. This list is very helpful. I’ll be keeping this in mind as I’m starting to plan my trip for the African safari next year. This will be so helpful…..awesome! And something I can keep in mind while I start planning. 🙂

Ellen Blau says

December 28, 2017 at 1:57 PM

From the Center for Disease Control Canada, here is the link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/tanzania Proof of Yellow Fever Card is only needed from countries not on this list.

August 11, 2018 at 2:19 AM

Thanks for the great tips.

I totally understand the confusion on the yellow fever card being required or not. I thought it was not needed since we were coming from the US and headed directly to Tanzania. The issue was we were coming via Nairobi (although only there a day). If you come from Kenya, you will need the yellow fever card. I am so glad I figured that out before our trip as we were crossing into Tanzania on the boarder and not through an airport.

July 30, 2022 at 1:51 AM

Hi! This is so helpful! I was wondering if you think that shoes and backpacks should also be in light or neutral colors? Or does that not make as much of an impact in keeping the tsetse flies away?

July 31, 2022 at 12:20 PM

Yes, you should avoid black and navy at all – even for shoes or backpacks. You’ll see tsetse fly traps while in safari and these are just a piece of navy or black cloth hung up because these colors are that effective in attracting the flies. And unfortunately, there’s no spray or anything that deters them other than not having dark colors anywhere near you.

Hope that helps answer your question!

March 11, 2023 at 4:22 AM

Hi there! I’m planning for our trip in August. I’m wondering about the water. Do you think it’s wise to invest in one of those water bottles that has an internal filter? Also, I’m very prone to bug bites, and was considering bringing my portable diffuser (really small) and placing it by my bed with citronella oil to help with any night bites. Any helpful tips for sleeping and bug bites? Thank you!!!

Karol Young says

March 11, 2023 at 9:19 PM

You mentioned the all natural citronella repellent. Is there a particular brand to use. Also what about an after bug bite spray or lotion? Just in case

Anne MacKenzie says

September 21, 2023 at 10:31 PM

Great blog. I won’t be wearing my black trainers! Thank you so much for all the useful comments.

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• Jul 6, 2023

The Complete African Safari Vacation Packing List & Guide

You’ve dreamed of going on safari for the longest time and now it’s all in motion: you’re finally heading to the savannahs of the Serengeti, the sprawling crater floor of Ngorongoro, and the verdant jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Your sights are set and your flights are booked—now, what in the world do you pack for your African safari adventure? What are the list of essentials for your African safari? Well, we hear this question quite a bit, so it prompted us to create this thorough article on the subject matter.

Getting your safari packing list in order can feel like a daunting task, especially if this is your first safari. How to prepare for a trip to places like nowhere else on the planet?

Not to worry—the trip planners at Penwell Safaris can help you pick out everything you need to succeed in the wild landscapes of East Africa. From recommendations to restrictions, we’ll help you sort out what to put on your safari packing list, what to pack it all into, and what to leave behind.

Safari Travel Luggage & Baggage Requirements

We expect that it’s a big ol’ jet airliner that’ll carry you to East Africa. But once you’re here, you’ll be hopping from spot to spot in more compact quarters: journeying by jeep and lifting off in light aircraft. And as neither of those adventurous modes of transport are known for their luggage capacity, there are some considerations to keep in mind.

The first consideration is weight. Light prop planes can only lift so much between passengers and cargo, and strict regulations on luggage keep the whole kit and caboodle safely in the sky. There are some slight variations from country to country and plane to plane, but the general rule across East Africa is this: two bags per passenger (one stowed, one carry-on), and no more than 33lbs total luggage between the two.

The second part is the luggage itself—nothing with a rigid frame, hard shell, or wheels. In East Africa, you want things you can cram into tight compartments and toss into stuffed trunks. Plus, you want the grab-and-go ease of bags that you can lug about with minimal fuss and as few hands as possible—light hiking backpacks and rugged duffel bags are where it’s at. Restrictions on dimensions vary, but most medium to small bags will fit the bill. Aim for a form factor of 24 inches by 18 inches by 13 inches or smaller and you’ll be good to go.

The great news is that these two requirements combine well—if you’re leaving your standard roller suitcase at home, you’re freeing up about 10 pounds of weight. And it gets better: thanks to East Africa’s climate, you’re not going to need a great variety in your wardrobe. With a few sensible outdoors standards on your safari packing list, you’re all set to go out on the game drives.

For some additional information around airlines and their luggage size rules, here’s a list of the most common airlines traveling from the U.S. to East Africa and their respective baggage allowance travel guidelines:

• KLM / Royal Dutch Airlines

• British Airways

• Kenya Air

• Ethiopian Airlines

• Qatar Airways

East African Weather Climate and What to Expect on Safari

Your luggage choices are all sorted out—but what goes in those appropriately selected packs and sacks? For that, we need to have a little climate chat.

The Earth’s equator runs right through East Africa, which causes a unique seasonality. While you’ll hear November through March referred to as “summer” and May through August as “winter,” you’re also certain to hear time spans named with the more straightforward descriptors of “wet” and “dry” seasons.

Seasonality of East Africa Weather

In Kenya and Tanzania, June through October make up a reliably dry season of abundant sunshine and very little rain. Summery November to March means a mix of rain and sun, and March through May is a time of soaking rains and swampy humidity. You’ll encounter much the same in Uganda and Rwanda, with the exception that the expected rainy seasons start about a month earlier, and surprise rain showers can pop up just about any time of year—especially in the rainforests.

East Africa also boasts relatively stable temperatures thanks to its equatorial locale. It’s not unheard of for parts of northern Uganda to tiptoe over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the hottest parts of July, nor for daytime temps along the Ngorongoro Crater rim to bottom out in the low 60s—but for the most part, year-round and across the whole area, daytime temperatures tend to bandy about the 70s and 80s. Nights and mornings are often about 20 degrees cooler. (As you’ll likely be out and about during those times, that’s something to take into account.)

Clothing to Pack for an African Safari

All of this adds up to needing about three or four outfits that can mix and match to cover a variety of fairly comfortable outdoor conditions. Let’s take a look at the particular must-haves that you’ll need for a safari in the summer months:

T-shirts & tank tops

Khakis and trousers (jeans in dry, winter months only)

A few pairs of shorts (if you’re a fancy-pants with fancy pants that are shorts AND trousers, this is your time to shine)

Comfy walking shoes for game walks, decent hiking shoes for hardier hikes

Flip-flops for your room and the pool—keeps the dirt outside and the changing simple

Bathing suit

A securely fastened sun hat or a baseball cap

Hoodie, fleece, pullover, and/or windbreaker for brisk evenings and mornings

One or two long-sleeve layers

A waterproof outer layer or two, like a sturdy poncho or a more technical shell layer

Underwear and socks! (ladies: you’ll want a sports bra)

A bandana for sun-screening and cooling or a light scarf for layering

Dust bags for cameras and binoculars

Those t-shirts, khakis, and shorts are the basics that will keep you happy, and the core around which you can customize your clothing for the specific whens and wheres of your safari. Summer months (November to March) and wet seasons (the same, but through May) require more attention to waterproofing and quick-drying clothing for inland areas. Sunnier and drier winters (June through October) mean leaner outfits overall but more layering to protect from sun and dust.

Should You Pack Nice/Dress Clothes for Safari?

If you want to dress to impress, knock yourself out and slip a stylish button-down into your ensemble. Mostly, you’re going to want to look properly prepared, which means following a few basic guidelines on top of the specifics.

Muted earth tones are your friends out in the bush. Bright and bold colors can sometimes draw reactions from the wildlife, whether it’s a spooked savannah zebra or a biting tse-tse fly attracted to your brilliant blue shirt.

Layering is key, and comfort is king. It’s totally normal to have a morning chilly enough for a fleece, an afternoon hot enough for tanks and shorts, and an afternoon rain shower. You want to be able to shed and don layers with ease to keep yourself comfortable while you’re away from camp.

Waterproof and quick-drying clothing are great at all times, and absolutely essential for wet seasons. The old hiking mantra of “cotton is rotten” is important to remember for underlayers like socks—wool is far superior to cotton for wicking moisture, whether it’s coming from you or the sky.

Recommended Safari Toiletries and First Aid Products

Sunscreen. Recommended SPFs for safari range on personal preference, but you’ll want at least SPF 20 to be safe.

Insect repellant. Up to 30% DEET for skin application. Consider permethrin-based products for clothing if you’re traveling in jungles or during humid, late-wet-season months.

A “travelers’ best friends” assortment of basic medications: antihistamines (e.g. Benadryl), anti-diarrheals (e.g. Imodium), anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen), anti-emetics (e.g. Pepto Bismol)

Band-aids, blister cushions, gauze

Cortisone cream and antibiotic ointment

Toothbrush and toothpaste, floss

Brush or comb

Nail clippers, file, and tweezers

Antacids, cough drops, earache drops

Saline solution for contacts (though we recommend wearing glasses where possible due to dust)

Finally, be sure to check with your physician for up-to-date and regionally specific medications like anti-malarial tablets and antibiotic measures like Z-Paks.

Gifts to Bring for African Locals

Over the years, our travel planners at Penwell have been asked so often about the possibility of bringing gifts to donate to children and hosts that we’ve dedicated a full blog post to the topic. For reference, here’s a short list of the best gifts to bring on safari:

Dental hygiene and first-aid products

Pencils, pens, crayons, and chalk

Notepads and notebooks

Toys like soccer balls, footballs, and board games

Household goods like clothes and linens

What NOT to Pack for an African Safari

For a variety of reasons, there are a few items that many travelers might tote along that just don’t jive well with the environments in East Africa. To stay on the safe side, leave these items at home.

Electric items with large power requirements like hairdryers. Most camps aren’t equipped to power such devices.

Camouflage clothing or military-style outfits or accessories. They can cause trouble in some situations and big trouble in some countries.

Plastic bags and single-use bottles. Frowned upon in most of East Africa, plastic bags are outright banned in Kenya and Rwanda for environmental reasons.

US currency printed before 2006. These older bills are simply not accepted in many places, customs included.

Get Packing for an African Safari Adventure!

Ready to start stuffing duffels and donning backpacks for your safari adventure? We can’t wait to get you out there for one life-changing experience after another. Be sure to check in with your Penwell trip planners for any specifics about your exciting destinations, and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you might have. Let’s write your safari story together.

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• The Ultimate Safari Packing List: What to Pack for your African Safari

by AdminSoa July 4, 2017

• SOUTH AFRICA
• BEACH HOLIDAYS

Packing for your Safari

So, you've booked your flights, you've picked out your hotels, and you've carefully negotiated the best price and itinerary for your trip.

You've had your vaccinations for Africa , made a checklist of animals you want to photograph, and bought that all-important travel insurance for your safari .

Now comes the hard part: figuring out what to pack for your once-in-a-lifetime safari adventure.

As always, the Shadows of Africa team has your back.

Below, you'll not only find a complete list of the safari essentials you'll need to pack, but also a guide on what kind of clothes to bring for the different times of year.

Of course, if we've missed anything here, don't hesitate to contact us or ask your safari expert for their advice.

What to Pack for Your Safari

Packing for your first safari can be a bit daunting. What do you bring? What don’t you need? Below you’ll find our recommended list of things to bring along with you when you’re on safari.

While there is plenty of room in our safari vehicles for your larger suitcase, it's always handy to have a more manageable bag that you can have with you in the vehicle.

A warm sweater or light fleece

Nights and mornings in East Africa can be cold, so it's always good to have something a little warmer to throw on until the sun warms the plains up.

You can check below for a better idea of what to wear on safari.

A windbreaker or waterproof jacket

You never know when there's going to be a sudden squall or downpour, so packing a lightweight rain jacket is a good idea.

While you'll be safe and dry inside your safari vehicle, a rain jacket is a good option for when you're getting about camp.

Walking shoes or boots

Much of your safari takes place within your safari vehicle, but you'll need a comfortable pair of shoes or hiking boots for walking to your lodges, snapping photos from the picnic spot, or if you've added any walking safaris to your itinerary.

Even in the car, you'll want a pair of comfortable shoes that cover your skin to prevent against sunburn and insect bites.

A long sleeve dress shirt and trousers

Perfect for both sun protection and to ward off hungry mosquitoes, a long sleeve shirt and trousers are also a good option for a cold morning or evening.

If you're staying in nicer lodges, you'll also wants these handy for dinner and drinks at the end of a long day.

The sun in East Africa can be quite intense, so sunglasses are a good protective measure and have the benefit of reducing glare while you're game-viewing.

Sun protection should be a priority while you're on safari. While your vehicle provides shade, having the top up for game-viewing means you'll be exposed to the elements.

A good hat is a great way to avoid nasty burns or heatstroke.

Sunscreen and lip balm

Another valuable precaution against the often harsh equatorial sun, sunscreen and lip balm will protect you where your clothes don't.

Insect repellent

Mosquitoes and tsetse flies are both capable of carrying diseases and their bites can be quite irritating or painful. Tsetse flies can deliver a particularly nasty sting.

A good insect repellent is a good way to ward off these blood-thirsty little guys.

It goes without saying that you're going to want a camera for your safari adventure. While in some cases your smart phone will be enough to snap a shot, a camera with a good zoom lens is the perfect companion.

Shadows of Africa vehicles come standard with a single pair of binoculars that you can share with your driver, but having your own pair is a good way to ensure you don't miss a second of the action.

You don't need an expensive pair. Even a travel-sized pair of binoculars is sufficient for game-viewing.

Batteries and/or charger for your camera

You don't want to be midway through a day on safari and suddenly run out of battery for your camera.

Shadows of Africa vehicles come standard with in-car charging stations, but it's always a good idea to travel with an additional battery.

Additional SD cards are also a good idea to ensure you don't need to stop to delete photos.

A flashlight or headlamp

The wilderness can be pretty dark, so a headlamp or flashlight can be essential when moving about camp after dark.

Many lodges provide these, but those staying in budget camps will want to bring their own.

Guide books

You don't need a hefty Lonely Planet for your safari, but having a wilderness guidebook is a good way to build a 'to do list' for your trip.

Your Shadows of Africa driver is a font of knowledge when it comes to animal, bird, and plant-life too. Don't hesitate to ask questions!

Phone and charger

Whether it's to stay in touch, to share your photos, or just so you can snap pictures on the fly - bringing along your smart phone is a good idea.

Savvy travelers may wish to purchase a local SIM card, but many hotels have WiFi.

While on safari in Tanzania, our vehicles also come with WiFi, although this is dependent on location.

A good book

You'll rarely find yourself without something to see while on safari, but there is going to be some downtime.

Whether it's the drive to or from the airport or just a lazy night at your lodge, having a good book (or a Kindle) on hand is a great way to pass the time.

Tissues/Wet Wipes

While all national parks and lodges have toilet facilities available, there's no telling when nature might call and you'll need to make use of the famous 'bush toilet'.

Having a packet of tissues or wet wipes in your pack is always a good idea.

Medical Essentials

While all of our Shadows of Africa vehicles have their own on board first aid kit, it never hurts to be prepared.

You might wish to consider the below list and figure out which medications you'd like to bring along for your trip. We've highlighted those we think are most essential in italics .

• Anti-malarial medication ;
• Painkillers;
• Antihistamines for allergies and insect bites ;
• Cold and flu medication;
• Anti-Diarrhea medication ;
• Medicines for re-hydration after diarrhea or sunstroke;
• Moisturizer for treating sunburn;
• Antiseptic lotion;
• Rubbing alcohol;
• Bandages and plasters;

If you're planning to climb Kilimanjaro or do some hiking, you may also wish to bring along water purification tablets.

All of our safari clients are provided with 1.5L of drinking water per day.

Don’t let the above list daunt you. Many of these items are only necessary in extreme cases, but it’s better to have something and not need it than it is to need something and not have it!

What to Wear on Safari

There is no dress code for safari, however it is advised that you were inconspicuous clothes in brown, green, beige, khaki, or other neutral colors so as not to draw attention to yourself or frighten the animals away.

As driving distances can be quite long while on safari, it is advisable that you dress lightly and comfortably. With evenings able to get quite cold, it is also advisable to bring along warmer clothes.

Weather in East Africa

Depending on which country you'll be spending your time in, there are different conditions to be aware of.

Weather in Tanzania

As an equatorial country, Tanzania does not experience the four traditional seasons - instead having alternating wet and dry seasons.

The long rainy season takes place from March through May, and is considered low season in Tanzania. This means less crowds and cheaper accommodation, but the weather is obviously cooler and wetter.

The short rainy season is in November and December. The rains at this time of year are lighter, and crowds are at a more respectable level.

June through October is Tanzania's long dry season . Rain is extremely uncommon and game-viewing conditions are at their best.

January and February represent the short dry season .

On average, temperatures rarely get lower than 60F and average at about 85F in the dry months. The overall average temperature hovers between 70 - 75F year round, with just mornings and nights being cooler.

Weather in Kenya

Kenya is similar to Tanzania in terms of having both rainy and dry seasons, but the time of year varies.

Kenya's long rainy season come from April through to mid-June, with the short rainy season in November and December.

A cool season stretches from June through October, and is typically drier and cooler than the other months. Temperatures range from 50F to 82F at this time of year.

Lastly, a dry season of hotter weather comes from December to March. Days peak at around 86F during the dry season.

Weather in Rwanda

March through May are Rwanda's long rainy season , and provide poor conditions for viewing primates such as gorillas and chimpanzees. There is also a short rainy season from October to November.

The long dry season stretches from June through September, with a short dry season from December to February. These offer the best time to visit.

Even in dry season, cloud cover is not uncommon across Rwanda. This does tend to keep temperatures at a less oppressive level.

Temperatures in Rwanda tend to range from 60F to 80F.

Weather in Uganda

Like Tanzania & Kenya, Uganda has alternating periods of wet and dry.

There are two wet seasons , with one falling from March - May and one from September - November. The March rainy season is wetter, but both make travel on Uganda's dirt roads more difficult.

The dry seasons in June - August and December - February are warmer and drier, with temperatures ranging from

Regardless of the time of year, temperatures tend to range from 61C to 82C, with higher altitude locations such as Bwindi Impenetrable and Kibale Forest having cooler temperatures.

Are you interested in an African safari?

Contact one of our safari experts and we will tailor-make a safari for you!

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The Complete Safari Packing List: What to Pack for African Safaris

This Complete Safari Packing List tells you exactly what to pack for African Safaris on a budget. Our easy guide on what to pack for safari trips provides an essential safari packing list ideal for planning your first safari in Africa, honing your packing skills, or packing on a budget, in a hurry.

Safari Packing Lists for African Safaris on a Budget

• Essential Safari Packing List - the must-haves
• Important Items to Pack for African Safaris - don't forget 
• What to Wear on an African Safari - clothes to pack
• Recommended for Your Safari Packing List - good to have
• Useful Things to Pack for Safaris in Africa - handy items
• Do NOT Pack for Safari Trips - leave at home
• Nice to Have on Safari in Africa - nice-to-have items
• Safari Packing List for Gifts & Donations - things to give
• Africa Safari Packing List Tips - how to pack

Let's start with the essential items to pack for safari trips before we go into more details (like the nice-to-haves, what to wear on an African safari, packing no-nos, and more).

1. ESSENTIAL SAFARI PACKING LIST 

These are the most important things to take on safari with you. You do NOT want to forget to pack these items. In fact, you won't be going anywhere without some of them.

Passport with all the required visas for every country your African safari travels to and through.

Some cash and bank cards (Forex and/or Credit Card). You can also use e-wallet apps these days to avoid carrying cards and cash.

Air tickets and travel vouchers for any pre-booked safari tours.

Vaccination certificates (yellow fever, COVID etc) where required. Some vaccinations need to be taken well in advance (see  Vaccinations needed for your African Safari )

Medication: malaria prophylactics if advised (see  Malaria Made Simple ) and any personal medication (also take your prescription in case of an emergency - your medication gets lost, wet, eaten by a baboon, etc)

Travel insurance policy details. Your policy number and the contact details for claims and emergencies. (Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for African safari bookings).

Cell phone. Most globetrotters travel with a smartphone to stay in touch with family and friends, connect to Wi-Fi, and for emergencies.

Copies of your important documents: as a precaution take a copy of your air tickets, travel insurance policy, vaccinations, visas, prescriptions, and passport. 

A hard copy of your most important contact numbers in case you lose your phone.

Top Safari Packing Tips for Essential Travel Items

#1: Pack your essential documents (#1 to #7) separately to your copies of these important documents (#9) rather than putting all of your 'eggs' in one 'basket' (i.e. a piece of luggage).

#2: Keep your essential documents on you (think fanny pack/moon bag, man bag, cargo pants) or in your day bag which you keep with you. Don't pack your essential documents in your main luggage as baggage does go missing sometimes. 

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2. IMPORTANT ITEMS TO PACK FOR AFRICAN SAFARIS

Take the following items from the safari packing list with you for the best African safari experience. These are the things to pack for a happy safari trip.

1. Sun Protection:

• Sunblock - an eco-friendly 30 SPF (or higher) sunscreen.
• A sun hat. Avoid the floppy straw hat, as experience has shown that you'll spend more time clutching onto it than the shade is worth! 
• Sunglasses are excellent for keeping dust and small flying insects out of your eyes, as well as the blazing African sun.

2. Insect Repellents:

• ECO-FRIENDLY insect repelling lotion or body spray/mist and ECO-FRIENDLY insect spray or citronella products to deter the critters.

3. Head Torch:

• Torch or headtorch. Take a light source for around camp and for getting to/from the safari vehicle on night drives without stepping on any wild animals' toes. It gets really dark out in the bush at night so you need a light source to navigate your way after dark. The headtorch is best as it leaves your hands free to do stuff.

4. Day backpack: 

• A bag for day trips and excursions will come in very handy (a real must on the safari packing list).
• You may want to take a money belt (also known as a moon bag, fanny pack, and bum bag) for travel in cities.

5. Hand sanitizer & a facemask:

• Hand sanitiser (spray or gel) has become an important item to pack for safaris, as with all travel, due to Covid-19. Most places you go will have hand sanitiser but it is best to carry your own just to be safe.
• Sanitizer is great for keeping fresh and healthy on the road, especially if access to clean water is limited. Wet wipes are also handy but less eco-friendly so use them sparingly.
• In most African countries it is mandatory to wear a facemask in public, as is the case in airports and most countries in the world at present.

Safari Packing Tips for Important Items

#1. When it comes to choosing a sun hat, go with functionality over form. Take a snug-fitting peak or one of those typical safari hats that compliment khaki shorts and protect your neck too. A round-brim hat with a drawcord to keep your hat on in windy conditions is best.

#2. Insect repellent does NOT replace the need for anti-malaria medication! Packing insect repellents is recommended in conjunction with malaria prophylaxis, especially in high-risk malaria areas. Not getting bitten and bugged by mosquitoes also makes travelling far more pleasant, but taking anti-malaria medication is the most essential part so check if you need to take precautions well in advance (See Malaria Made Simple ). 

#3. Headlamps are ideal as you still have both hands free to do stuff. Plus you can get headlamps with red lights for watching nocturnal animals without chasing them away. (Remember extra batteries or get a USB rechargeable headtorch and remember to pack the charging cable).

3. WHAT TO WEAR ON AN AFRICAN SAFARI - CLOTHES TO PACK 

Knowing what to wear on safari is important because it will affect your levels of comfort. The overall recommendation is to pack clothes that are comfortable, durable, and functional. 

• A lightweight long-sleeved shirt or two - these keep the sun and insects out and help you stay warm during cool morning and evening periods.
• Closed shoes (again, comfortable) - for walking in the bush or in wet conditions. You don't need Doc Martens or army boots, just worn-in, comfortable, and sensible footwear. Leave the platforms and high-heels at home.
• Open shoes - lightweight, slip-on shoes for around camp and at the pool and beach. Avoid heels.

• Long pants and/or shorts - I recommend long pants to protect your legs from scratchy bushes (if walking in the wild) and insect or tick bites. 
• A jacket - usually a lightweight, rainproof jacket will be enough for cool nights unless you're heading to more mountainous and colder areas (check seasons and ask your travel advisor).
• Take natural and light-coloured clothing - avoid the glaring primary and neon colours that get you spotted first. Black garments will get you baking in the sun, while white clothes will create glare and become brownish soon anyway. Camo wear isn't necessary, just go with neutral tones.
• If you're travelling to places with distinct wet seasons during the rainy months go prepared - waterproof shoes and a rainjacket etc.

Safari Packing Tips for Clothes on Safari

#1. Pack light. Don't overdo it when packing clothes for your safari!

#2. Activewear and outdoor clothing and gear will serve you well on safari in Africa. Think, comfortable, breathable, and long-lasting.

#3. Avoid bright primary colours and neons. Opt for muted tones (beige, khaki, pastel green, light blue, etc) instead. 

#4. Remember that some cultures are more conservative than others, so dress respectfully (wear clothes appropriate to the local customs). 

4. RECOMMENDED FOR YOUR SAFARI PACKING LIST

You'll kick yourself if you forget to take these handy things on the african safari packing list..

• Binoculars - you don't want to wait to share binoculars, because by the time it's your turn the action is often over. Take your own binoculars, even night vision binoculars if you can!

• Digital camera - a Single Lens Reflex (SLR) with memory card ports supporting SD cards, or a smaller Superzoom Camera. It's the size (not too big) and a good zoom lens that counts when choosing what camera to take on safari. 
• Charging devices - The correct plugs or adaptors for the areas your safari visits and all of your chargers, batteries, and device power cables.
• Camera storage devices - enough memory for a bazillion photos! Take extra memory space along.
• A warm hat (aka a beanie) - early mornings and evenings can get chilly, especially on game drives so take a warm hat.

• Toiletries (don't forget sanitary wear). Take biodegradable toiletries with you if your safari travels into the bush, especially to pristine natural areas.
• Swimwear - costumes for refreshing dips in the camp swimming pools, waterfalls, rock pools, lakes, oceans, etc.
• Comfortable shoes. Sensible shoes for walking in - avoid big boots as these are heavy, space-gobblers.
• If you plan on cycling then take light gloves for biking in the sun (top tip from Neil Foulger's safari review )

Safari Packing Tips for Recommended Items

#1. Pack your toiletries and devices in wet bags to ensure that they stay dry. 

#2. Keep your camera in your daypack/on you.

#3. Decant your toiletries into smaller containers to save space (shampoo, conditioner, moisturiser, etc).

5. USEFUL THINGS TO PACK FOR SAFARIS

• Pocket knife - you'll get lots of neat opportunities to utilize your pocket knife and feel like a real outdoor survivor.
• Wet bags - so handy, you'll keep finding more uses for these as you go. A great way to waterproof items and keep snacks fresh and safe from creatures and the elements.
• Antiseptic cream - a multi-purpose ointment for minor scratches, bites, and burns (like Zam-buk).
• Lip ice - being outdoors in often hot and dry places, lip ice is great for preventing and soothing chapped lips.
• Guides/Apps - to local flora and fauna, for insight and useful information about the wild things you encounter in Africa (see Top 6 Wildlife Apps for your African Safari ).
• Sarong or kikoi - always useful when travelling. Used as a scarf, an extra layer for warmth, to keep the sun and mosquitoes off your skin, as a picnic blanket or lightweight towel or small pillow, and more.
• Re-usable shopping bags - handy for carrying things on day trips, boat rides, beach outings, and market visits. Fabric shopping bags are great alternatives to plastic bags which are banned in many African countries.
• Earplugs to block out noise when you need to sleep or zone out.

6. DO NOT PACK FOR SAFARI TRIPS 

When packing for your safari in Africa do not pack the following:

• single-use plastic. Banned in many countries, especially in East Africa.
• unnecessary jewellery and expensive accessories
• items prohibited by airlines, check your airline regulations (seeds, plants, certain foods, etc).
• disposable water bottles. Most safari trucks and lodges have water dispensers for topping up reusable water bottles. Alternatively, buy a big 5 or 10-litre water container and top-up from that along the way.

7. NICE TO HAVE ON SAFARI IN AFRICA

A few things you will be glad you packed for your safari in Africa (if you have space).

• Lightweight travelling hammock - especially for beach tours and safaris into the bush where you will want to laze in the scenic settings.
• GPS app - you won't get lost with  African Budget Safaris but a GPS device or app on your phone is handy for finding local sights and restaurants and keeping track of your journey through Africa.
• Digital camcorder - a small handheld video recorder for making personal and YouTube videos that capture all the action on your trip. 
• A good book, iPod, iPad, or games - to keep you entertained on the road and while waiting for transfers and relaxing on your safari.
• A small diary - for recording your travel experiences and noting down the names of animals/birds sighted on game drives as well as useful local words and phrases.
• Headphones - nice for listening to a soundtrack while you watch the scenery on the road or for falling asleep, as well as for audiobooks.

If your luggage is overloaded it may be better to leave some of the extra items from the safari packing list at home. Remember there are shops in Africa and many safari lodges have small libraries you can use.

8. SAFARI PACKING LIST FOR GIFTS & DONATIONS

Personally, I am in favour of donating directly to charitable organizations or volunteering in support of good causes. But, if you'd like to give gifts and physical donations to people and places on your safari here are a few suggestions.

• Pens, pencils, notebooks, and colouring pencils 
• Extra clothes or shoes
• Toiletries (soap, toothbrushes, and sanitary pads)
• Small tokens/souvenirs unique to your home country

Some responsible travellers donate their old camping gear, sleeping bags, clothes, and shoes to charity at the end of their safari trips which is another easy way to give back (see  Responsible Safari: how to travel ethically ).

9. SAFARI PACKING LIST TIPS

Some easy guidelines on How to Pack for African Safaris.

• Don't overdo it. Packing too much for safaris is a common mistake! If your African safari includes domestic flights between destinations in small fixed-wing planes then your luggage allowance is usually restricted to a weight limit of 15 kg /33 lb (check with your travel advisor).
• Soft bags are recommended as safari luggage. Go with a good quality, hardy duffel bag that is light and secure. Nothing fancy. You can even get soft bags with wheels and handles. Just make sure that your bag can be secured properly with sturdy locks.
• When going on a guided group safari (like many tours with  African Budget Safaris ), you don't need to worry about the emergency first-aid kit and most of your meals are included in the tour price.
• Your guides know where to stop for supplies and can get hold of the most important things, if and when you are caught unprepared.
• Towels, bedding/sleeping bags, and basic toiletries may be provided as part of your safari tour - check when booking your safari.
• Remember not to pack your valuables into your main luggage (stored in the baggage compartment of the plane) when flying as bags do go missing at times. 

There you have it - the Complete Safari Packing List for the best African safari on a budget. Oh, and one more thing... Don't forget to bring a healthy sense of adventure with you to Africa : )

If you have any essentials or nice-to-have items to add to our Easy Guide on What to Pack for African Safaris, we would love to know! 

Talk to a safari pro for travel advice and tips on planning your African safari. And, let's get packing!

Landia Davies Content Manager & Sculptor

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African Safari 101: What to Pack (And What to Leave Behind)

By Bridget Hallinan

Packing for an African safari can feel intimidating—you hear about all sorts of restrictions, like that small charter planes only allow luggage under 40 pounds, and it has to be soft-shelled (no frames or rigid structures). And though your tour operator will most likely send you packing tips after you book, we tapped our safari experts for the essentials, from necessary tech and gear to packing for all weather conditions (yes, it can get cold).

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

The luggage

“The weight of luggage is very limited on the small aircrafts that fly in Africa: 44 pounds per person in soft duffels for Southern Africa , 33 pounds per checked bag, per person, for East Africa. The most important thing is to forgo wheels on your luggage as they add about eight to 12 pounds, where if you have a lightweight duffel without wheels, you have so much more weight for clothing and shoes.”— Nina Wennersten , co-owner of Hippo Creek Safaris

“Your [carry-on] should contain medications and necessary items in the event your checked bag is lost or delayed. A backpack is recommended for gorilla tracking.”— Linda Friedman , CEO of Custom Safaris

For more luggage tips, check out our round-up of the The Best Safari Luggage .

The clothes

“ Pack very minimal and lightweight, earth-toned clothing. Since most camps provide laundry services, packing light should be easy (think three to four outfits). It’s always good to pack a windbreaker or fleece, as the night game drives can be cool.”— Sarah Taylor, special projects coordinator at Africa Adventure Company

“Khaki and tan are the preferred colors when going on a game walk, but most of the time in East Africa, you are in a safari vehicle and can wear jeans/shorts with T-shirts in almost all colors. However, avoid shirts that are purple, red or royal blue—bright colors seem to make the animals shy away. Biting insects like tse-tse flies are attracted to striped patterns of royal blue and black, so don't wear this combination if possible.”— N.W.

“[Bring] a bandana, which, when dipped in water, is very refreshing around your neck when it's warm out. When chilly, definitely bring a hat, warm scarf or pashmina, and gloves or mittens.”— Phoebe Weinberg , president of Greatways Travel, Inc

“If you plan to walk, then pack one pair of lightweight walking shoes with good tread...ideally, not white or neon! Hiking boots [are] really not needed for the leisurely pace of a “ bush walk ,” but a firm tread is needed.”— P.W.

“You will need waterproof hiking boots (that are broken in) for gorilla tracking, lightweight wool socks, waterproof jacket, hat and garden gloves (to avoid stinging nettles), gaiters or duct tape to wrap your ankles, a lightweight fleece, long sleeves, and trousers.”— L.F.

Wennersten's general safari must-haves, during summer (November-March)

• Comfortable sneakers/sandals/walking shoes for game walks
• Flip-flops or similar for pool or in-room use, or even in safari vehicle
• Baseball cap or hat to keep dust/sun from head
• Windbreaker/fleece jacket for layering during game drives and evening
• Jeans (one or two pairs)
• Khaki or cotton pants/slacks, for dinner time
• Four T-shirts for daytime wear
• Button-down long-sleeve sport shirts (optional at dinner for men)
• Long-sleeve and mid-sleeve women’s cotton shirts for layering
• Shorts/cut-offs—two or three pairs for mid-day wear
• Sleeveless shirts for warmer days—very necessary for summer
• Bathing suit
• Underwear (sports bras are recommended for game drives)

For more clothing ideas, check out our guide to safari outfits .

In the Dopp kit

“Motion sickness relief band—these are ideal for the charter flights since they don’t cause drowsiness.”— S.T.

First aid and toiletries needs, from multiple sources

• Malaria tablets (Wennersten recommends getting a prescription from your doctor for any of the following: Malarone, Larium, Doxycycline, or Primaquin)
• Antihistamine tablets
• Anti-nausea tablets
• Pepto-Bismol and antacids
• Cough drops, earache drops
• Z pack for the flu, just in case
• Basic medical kit (aspirin, band-aids, Imodium, antiseptic /anti-histamine cream)
• Moisturizer and suntan lotion —SPF 20 or higher
• Insect repellent (30 percent DEET or above for anti-malaria use)
• Tissues/Wet Ones
• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Hairbrush/comb
• Nail scissors/file/clipper/tweezers

“Pack a great reference book like Mark Nolting’s African Safari Field Guide . This handy resource is ideal for first time and repeat safari-goers as it gives a comprehensive list of the different species frequently seen on safari. It also includes a journal section for jotting down memories, recipes, and contact information.”— S.T. ( We've also got a list of books to read before you go on safari, and you can check them out here . )

“Besides your usual electronics, a power strip from home is essential so you can plug that into the camp or lodge outlet and then charge all of your items at one time. Most camps have one outlet or plug that will accept your American 110 volt plug.”— N.W.

“Remember all of your electronics, camera, [memory] cards, batteries, chargers, and a small flashlight. We recommend a camera with a telephoto lens and lightweight binoculars.”— L.F.

“Everyone should bring their own pair of binoculars in order to get the most out of the safari. 8x40/8x42 is the recommended general purpose binocular specification for both birding and mammal viewing.”— Julian Harrison , CEO and owner of Premier Tours

“A waterproof/dust-proof bag/cover for your camera; good quality sunglasses ; glasses, as wearing contacts might make you susceptible to dust irritation; moisturizer; and sunblock.”— J.H.

“A flashlight or head lamp and a Southern African bird guide (like Newman’s or Sasol .)”— Wilderness Tours

What n ot to pack

“ Kenya and Rwanda are polythene-free countries. For environmental reasons, plastic bags are illegal and have been banned, the customary plastic duty-free bags included. For liquids in hand luggage, it is recommended to use transparent toiletry bags.”— Wilderness Tours

“Camouflage clothing is not recommended for travel in southern African countries. Camouflage or military-inspired clothing is prohibited when traveling in Zimbabwe .”— J.H.

By Jessica Puckett

By Madison Flager

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

By Julia Eskins

“Please note no drones are allowed by any camps in East Africa.”— P.W.

“Do not bring a portable hair dryer—most camps’ electrical systems cannot take the drain, but if you must bring, make sure it is a travel version with capabilities at 220-240v (most do not auto-adapt).”— N.W.

“[Bring] business or personal contact cards—you will have the opportunity to chat with lots of wonderful people along the way who share a similar spirit of adventure. Stay in touch with them!”— S.T.

“An International Certificate of Vaccination (including yellow fever inoculation) [is] required for travel to Rwanda and Uganda , and Tanzania /Zanzibar if you arrive from Kenya (or have been to Kenya on this trip).” — N.W.

“In the unlikely event of an injury, travel insurance is highly recommended—especially to cover evacuation.”— P.W.

Other necessities: Don't forget your plane tickets, passport, credit cards (note that AMEX isn't widely accepted), and some U.S. dollars for visas, tips, and souvenirs, etc. If you're traveling in Kenya, you'll need to bring a printed copy of your eVisa.

Pro tip: We're all about souvenirs at Traveler , so make sure to pack a second lightweight duffel bag when you go on safari—that way, you'll have plenty of room to bring home memorabilia on the way back.

• By Destination
• By Trip Type
• Luggage Expertise
• Packing Tips

• 1 Durable and Lightweight Duffle
• 2 Reading Material
• 3 Hat with SPF Protection
• 4 Water-Resistant Windbreaker
• 5 Camera Bag
• 6 Versatile Shirt
• 7 Simple Maxi Dress
• 8 Mosquito Repellent Wipes
• 10 Substantial Hiking Shoes

The 10 Key Items to Pack for an African Safari

Nature lodges, bush camping, stunning natural scenery, and close encounters with some of the most awe-inspiring wildlife on earth—an African safari promises to be to the stuff of a romantic, adventure-filled epic. Your packing list, however, should be built around practical, utilitarian pieces. Think: durable outerwear in earth tones. Pick items that can be layered—it’s often cool in the morning when game drives begin—and that can be easily washed and worn again. You’ll also want a carryall for in-the-field essentials like bug spray, sunscreen, and camera equipment when you’re out during the day. And at night, you'll want comfortable pieces for unwinding back at the lodge or in the safari tent. Here are 10 essentials to help make the trip of a lifetime a success.

See recent posts by Leigh Crandall

Durable and Lightweight Duffle

Most of the puddle jumper-sized planes that deliver visitors to safari lodges have a luggage weight limit around 30 pounds. To maximize your packing, opt for a lightweight bag without wheels or added hardware. Made from durable heathered nylon, Eagle Creek’s Packable Duffle weighs in at just eight ounces, includes a lockable main compartment, and has a lifetime warranty.  It folds down into a 10-inch pouch making it easy to store during and after your trip. Remember, most camps provide same-day laundry service, so even though you’ll bring less you shouldn't run out of clean clothes.

Reading Material

Without TV, or maybe even Wi-Fi, enjoy additional time to read. We suggest Beryl Markham’s memoir, " West With the Night ." From her childhood on a horse racing farm to touch-and-go flights as a bush pilot, Markham paints a vivid, thrilling picture of life in Kenya in the first half of the 20th century and details her record-setting trip as the first person to fly solo across the Atlantic from east to west. As Ernest Hemingway once said, “It really is a bloody wonderful book.” 

Hat with SPF Protection

Hours of outdoor time each day on game drives means sun protection is essential. One easy solution: a hat made with materials that guard against UV rays. This one from Scala provides UPF 50+ protection and includes a leather chin cord to keep it in place. It’s also crushable, making it easy to pack and reshape once you arrive. While the look of lightweight raffia certainly fits a safari, you can also wear it again at the beach or poolside.

Water-Resistant Windbreaker

Game drives often begin before sunrise or in the early evening when temperatures are cooler. A lightweight windbreaker like L.L.Bean's Waterproof Primaloft Packaway Jacket in Dark Cinder is the perfect extra layer. The waterproof fabric protects against the rain, there are pockets to stash valuables (and keep your hands warm), and it's light-weight, easy-to-pack, and machine washable--all ideal qualities when traveling to a far-flung locale. 

To capture closeups of the lions, zebras, giraffes, and other incredible animals you’ll be spotting, plan to pack a camera with a telephoto lens. Another thing that’s worth investing in: a great camera bag that will protect your camera and lenses and also serve as a carryall while you’re out on game drives. We like the Bond Street bag by Ona for its durable, water-resistant waxed canvas exterior and removable padded divider that lets you organize the interior any way you see fit. Pockets provide places to hold other game drive must-haves like lightweight binoculars, sunscreen, and cash to tip your guides.

Versatile Shirt

Keeping your skin protected from the sun and mosquitos is required on safari. Pack a few easily washable cotton, long-sleeved shirts. Remember, bright and dark colors (even plain black and white) are often not permitted on game drives as they can frighten animals and attract flies, so be sure to pick neutral colors like khaki, olive green, and tan. The Boyfriend Utility Shirt by J.Crew fits the bill (it comes in British khaki and distressed fatigue) and has two large front pockets perfect for placing odds and ends, like sunglasses. It's available in a huge range of sizes, from XXS to XXXL. 

Simple Maxi Dress

Meals and midday downtime are mostly had at camp and you’ll want to pack a comfortable outfit or two for the time spent lounging around the lodge. A simple and soft maxi dress like this one from Auselily works for day or night. It comes in nine flattering shades, plus it has pockets. It's easy to change the look by simply adding accessories, a scarf, or a lightweight camisole.

Mosquito Repellent Wipes

Most safari lodges provide mosquito nets over beds for bug-free sleep, but during drives and evenings at camp it’s important to wear mosquito repellent to ward off pesky, and potentially dangerous, insects. The most effective repellents contain DEET. Repel’s Travel-Sized Mosquito Wipes have 30-percent of the inspect-repelling chemical and application is easy thanks to disposable towelettes. One swipe should keep insects away for up to 10 hours.

A bandana can be your best friend on safari. It will keep your neck warm on evening drives and help wipe sweat away in the hot afternoons, or it can be dipped it in water to cool you off. It can even be repurposed as a headband. ExOfficio’s BugsAway Woven Bandana goes a step further with a built-in insect shield that wards off flies and mosquitos and lasts up to 70 washes. And bandanas are having a fashion moment, too. 

Substantial Hiking Shoes

One of the best ways to take in the natural landscape is on a guided bush walk. You’ll forgo the 4x4 vehicle in lieu of hitting the trail on your own two feet (with a guide, of course). The slower pace allows you to stop and take in the details of smaller flora and fauna close-up and head to spots inaccessible by vehicle. Comfortable footwear is a must. Oboz Sawtooth Low BDry are a breathable and waterproof option with extra traction for muddy trails. Each shoe weights 15 ounces, which means they're durable but still lightweight. 

DON’T FORGET THESE 3 KEY ITEMS ON SAFARI

Don’t even think about showing up on a safari without the above key items. Bug bites and rashes from poisonous plants are a fact of life in the bush, so don’t forget a cortisone cream to treat splotchy skin and itches. A serious sunscreen is a no brainer, but pack a scentless version. Game animals (and mosquitos) will smell coconut from a mile away—and it’s too bad that strong scents frighten away the animals you want to see and attract the insects you need to avoid. Speaking of bothersome insects, a headlamp is ideal for reading inside your mosquito net, and you won’t have to battle the bugs to turn out the light. Consider bringing extras of all three items—your fellow safarigoers will thank you.

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• The Best Headlamps for Every Activity and How to Use Them 
• What to Pack For a Camping Trip 

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35 Top Africa Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Many Westerners see Africa as an exotic, faraway land – one that’s so different that it’s hard to comprehend. Fortunately, more and more people are visiting Africa to see for themselves what it’s really like. From the fascinating history of Egypt, to the exceptional wildlife safaris of South Africa, to the rich culture of Senegal– you’ll find magic in every country of this beautiful continent.

To help prepare you for diverse landscapes and cultural etiquette, we’ve put together this packing list, including a section on what to wear in Africa , what NOT to bring., seasonal information, and FAQs.

What to Pack for Africa – 35 Essentials

1. high-quality filtered water bottle.

Avoiding tap water is probably the #1 thing visitors should do to stay healthy in Africa. Out on safari or in less populated areas, bottled water may not be readily available, and you will appreciate having autonomy over your water supply. The Grayl filtered water bottle is our preferred option – it’s top-quality and filters out harmful bacteria, viruses, microplastics, sediment, chlorine, and more. It’s not cheap, but also not expensive considering you’ll pay more in health bills by gambling with e. Coli or Hepatitis A.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Neck Wallet

You’ll obviously need your passport to reach Africa. A passport pouch is useful for keeping your credit cards, cash, phones, plane tickets, and of course… passports — organized for the long international journey. It’s also smart when traversing crowded tourist attractions or busy marketplaces where pickpockets tend to hang out. This one is difficult for sticky hands to open and it can be worn discreetly under your shirt to prevent petty theft. It also has RFID-Blocking material, which means anyone scanning your bag from afar cannot steal your financial information.

Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO”.

view on Amazon.com ➜

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Ransomware is rapidly growing in Africa and the country is digitally-evolving faster than the legislation can keep up with. This means there isn’t sufficient security around cyberattacks and you will need to protect yourself from any data breaches or online theft. You may not realize this, but if you go on any public or unsecured Wi-Fi such as at a restaurant, airport, or hotel – you are putting your passwords and credit cards at risk of being stolen. The last thing you want is to discover your bank account has been drained or your identity has been sold to the dark web! But a good provider like NordVPN makes it next to impossible for hackers to access your private info.

Also, many African countries heavily censor the internet, which means you may be unable to check emails or stream your favorite shows on services like Netflix, YouTube, or HBO. If you plan on remaining connected on your journey, a reliable VPN is essential to prevent getting blocked. Get the VPN beforehand for discounted flight tickets since they can’t geolocate you, woo-hoo!

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Power Adapter for Africa

If you’re coming from North America, you’ll need a power adapter anywhere in Africa. There are several different types of plugs found throughout the continent, so a universal adapter is the way to go. This one is our favorite because it works in 100+ popular countries and can be used for future travel as well. The only African country this one won’t work for is South Africa, as that plug is a different kind entirely – we recommend this Type M adapter for South Africa.

5. Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning Remedy)

If you’re careful about what you eat and drink as you travel around Africa, hopefully, you can avoid getting sick. But there’s always some risk, so bring a bottle of activated charcoal to be prepared. If you get sick, it’ll stop diarrhea by absorbing whatever toxins are in your system, saving you a lot of time and distress by getting you back on your feet in no time!

6. Travel Insurance for Africa

Your domestic provider does not cover you overseas and you will need a travel-based form of insurance to protect yourself and your loved ones. For this region in particular, buying travel insurance is essential since you need to expect the unexpected on the vast plains of Africa. We had a friend break their arm overseas – thankfully, she had insured her trip and wasn’t forced to pay out-of-pocket for major surgery and treatment expenses.

It costs a tiny fraction of your total trip cost and will cover you for common traveler issues like delays, theft, baggage loss, international hospital bills, and even the ability to cancel your trip “for any reason!” We use Faye because they simplify everything through their mobile app (I’ve avoided filling out insurance paperwork in the past because it was so daunting… but Faye made the claims process super easy and sent us funds when we needed them most). We love the peace of mind of knowing we’re covered, and it’s way more affordable than people think.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

These days, keeping your devices charged while on the go is essential. Africa is no exception. Although the continent boasts a population of 1.2 billion people, almost 75% is uninhabited. This means you will be spending long days lost in the bush or deep in the Valley of Kings, with no power grid in sight. I can’t tell you how many times this lipstick-sized charger has saved us on our journey when our phones were almost out of batteries and we needed to look something up online, navigate somewhere, or call for a ride. If you plan on spending a lot of time off-grid, we highly suggest bringing a solar-powered power bank as well.

8. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are the secret to any organized suitcase or backpack. They come with three or five different-sized cubes (depending on which variety you choose), so you can organize your things and easily find them at your destination. They are well-ventilated to keep your clothes and other belongings smelling fresh. Label each cube “tops, pants, essentials, socks, etc.” and never lose anything on vacation again! There are even bonus laundry bags so that you can separate your dirty clothes from your clean ones.

9. Jet Lag Relief

These jet lag relief supplements are a must-have for our international travel days. If you’re an American traveler, direct flights to Africa can take 15+ hours and the time change is nearly 10 hours ahead. This is a recipe for disaster against your internal clock and can really throw off your first couple of days on vacation. These supplements are herbal and balance your circadian rhythm, giving you energy without the jitters or caffeine rush. They’re an absolute game-changer!

10. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Whether you go swimming, hiking, exploring ancient temples, on safari, or just lounging by the Mediterranean Sea – a travel towel will definitely come in handy. These quick-dry towels are much more compact than a regular towel (so you’re not lugging around bulky hotel towels everywhere), plus they dry 10x faster than typical cotton. It’s one of the most versatile items you can bring, doubling as a shawl, packing cushion, seat cover, changing curtain, and more.

11. Hanging Toiletry Bag

Bathrooms can be small or non-existent across the plains of Africa. If you’re staying at a resort or hotel, you will likely have a toilet and sink, but countertop space and storage are not guaranteed. We were elated to discover this hack – a hanging toiletry bag that takes all of your toiletry products and converts them into a shelf-like storage system. You’ll find that this noticeably ups your travel game and minimizes stress. It’s WAY better than sprawling products all over the place and creating utter chaos in your suite.

Just hang this nifty case on any door, hook, shower pole, or branch if camping, and you can easily see everything at eye-level to avoid rummaging for that little lip balm or digging for cotton swabs. It has 4 spacious internal pockets with elastic bands to hold your bottles in place, and 3 external pockets which are perfect for smaller items like medicine and jewelry.

12. Windproof Travel Umbrella

If you plan to visit Africa, you’ll want to be aware of each country’s rainy season. Packing a small but sturdy travel umbrella would be a good idea so that you are prepared regardless of the weather forecast. It’s also great for blocking the sun while waiting in long lines. We’d recommend this travel umbrella in particular because it’s durable and has a lifetime replacement guarantee!

13. Discounted Tickets to African Attractions

Get Your Guide is our favorite booking service for the best local tours that will completely enhance your trip. From ziplining in Tsitsikamma to safari in Nairobi , you’ll find no shortage of adventure in Africa! And there are so many ways to get around Africa – by dune buggy in the Sahara, by cruising down the Nile, or by camelback .

Obviously, tourists are drawn to the Egyptian pyramids and popular spots like The Blue Town for a reason… They are amazing! But carve out some time for lesser-known experiences like cooking a traditional Morrocan meal, visiting the Ouzoud Waterfalls , marveling at wildlife on a Puebla safari , or hiking Paradise Valley .

See all African attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

14. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

Crowded places like tourist attractions, public buses, and beaches can draw thieves. You’re also trusting your checked luggage to the airlines as it disappears out of sight for potentially dozens of hours. As someone who’s had things stolen out of their checked bag, I recommend these TSA-approved luggage locks that are harder to crack than traditional locks. Bring a couple of sets for your suitcase, backpack, locker, or anything else you need to secure.

15. Luggage Straps

Frankly, it’s a long journey to Africa and I wouldn’t feel safe sending my bags on that rough passage without attaching these luggage straps. Between the layovers and common mishandling of bags – things break. Actually, an average of 25+ million bags per year are damaged or lost by airlines. And the last thing you’ll want to deal with is a suitcase exploding open while it’s being thrown around from one conveyor belt to the next.

They can withstand 700+ lbs of force tension, fit nearly any-sized case (hard-shell, soft-shell, children’s case, carry-on, etc.), and will ensure your items arrive in one piece. Another brilliant perk is the brightly-colored straps that you’ll spot from a mile away, even in a sea of bags that look all the same. And the built-in ID tags are a thoughtful touch in case anything gets temporarily lost.

16. Motion Sickness Patches

Between whale-watching in Cape Verde, busing on bumpy roads through Madagascar, or riding the roller-coaster of sand dunes in Namibia – these motion sickness patches will offer support against nausea. I used to get very sick on trains, planes, and cars, but this remedy has drastically improved my life. My favorite perk is that it’s more gentle than oral medication and doesn’t cause the typical drowsiness of products like Drammamine .

17. Cooling Towels

The highest recorded temperature in Africa is 136°F. While it’s unlikely that temps will skyrocket during your visit, it could still be very hot. Just in case, we recommend bringing a set of cooling towels – these magical babies drop to 20-30 degrees colder than the outside temperature and stay frosty for up to an hour! Simply add water and you’ll be resilient against the harsh UV rays.

18. Ultralight Travel Backpack

Day-to-day, a backpack will be the smartest way to carry all of your essentials (water bottle, camera, phone, wallet, etc.) while still remaining hands-free. This one by Venture Pal is designed for travel. It’s super lightweight, with tons of storage compartments and material that resists water, rips, and abrasions. If you were in an emergency, it also has a whistle attached to the front buckle to call for help.

19. Convertible Hiking Pants

Convertible hiking pants will be perfect for safari and other outdoor excursions. You don’t want to wear jeans or anything overly-heavy that can cause heat stress. Not to mention, bright colors are a no-no since they can attract unwanted attention from wildlife. This option is neutral and practical because you can rip off the lower pant legs if they get wet or muddy, transitioning from pants to shorts with ease. They’re even designed with a silver fiber cooling system for built-in temperature regulation.

20. Universal Waterproof Phone Cases

Dive to depths of up to 75 feet to explore coral reefs and marine life in Zanzibar and capture it all on camera with this waterproof phone case. It will also keep pesky sand from collecting in the nooks and crannies of your phone while you traverse the Sahara desert on camelback. No matter where in Africa you choose to explore, a waterproof phone case will protect your lifeline from the elements.

21. Water-Resistant Crocs

For daily walks through town, you’ll be more comfortable in protective shoes. You may also be moving through savannahs, the rainforest, and more, so having water-resistant Crocs is ideal since you can easily hose off any mud or dirt. They’re incredibly comfy, and I preferred having a slip-on pair than having to un-lace shoes every time I entered a home. Here’s a pair for men .

22. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

Africa will leave an imprint on your heart and you will likely feel called to bring back some stunning local goods! Use this “just in case” bag to do a little shopping on your getaway and bring home a piece of your memories. Between a multi-billion-dollar diamond empire, scrumptious tea exports, old-world wine, textiles, masks, jewelry, baskets, and vibrant artwork – you’ll find plenty of gifts for yourself and your loved ones. This bag can be easily stored under your plane seat on the trip home and counts as your personal item.

23. Probiotics

Many African nations don’t have the same sanitary standards that we’re used to in Western countries. Therefore, using these probiotics to keep your digestion and immunity strong is essential. I recommend taking them before your travels and especially during the trip. It will keep you regular and mitigate the risk of any harmful bacteria.

24. Female Urination Device

Okay gals, hear me out. Africa has sprawling terrains that can lead you far off the beaten path. Sometimes a restroom is nowhere in sight or it’s a squat toilet (a hole in the ground). Sometimes you find one, but it’s absolutely atrocious… When you gotta go, this little device will allow you to enjoy the freedom that men are born with – being able to pee while standing up! Using a funnel design for no mess (and zero porta-potty trauma), I promise you won’t regret having it.

25. TSA-Approved Toiletry Bottles

Speaking of things that will fit perfectly in your hanging toiletries bag – TSA will require all liquid bottles to be under 3.4 ounces/100 ml for flights. So don’t forget these leak-free travel bottles that work for both your checked suitcase and carry-on bag. You likely won’t find your favorite products in Africa, but you also don’t want to risk having to throw them away at the airport. These nifty cases will save space in your luggage and spare you from hauling heavy, full-sized bottles.

26. Rash Guard

With almost 20,000 miles of coastline that spreads across 54 nations, Africa boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world! Madagascar has some of the largest coral reefs we’ve ever seen, and if you’re visiting the Northern or Eastern seaboard, you’ll definitely want to do some snorkeling. Bring along a rash guard because Africa’s sunrays are powerful! This top will prevent any nasty sunburns and cut down on the amount of reef-safe sunscreen you have to use.

27. Deodorant Wipes

As you beat the heat, bring along a few natural deodorant wipes for a quick refresh. Since they control smell and sweat, I use them all over my arms and legs for a cool-off. They smell divine and are pocket-sized, so you can throw a handful in your purse or backpack. Maybe best of all, they leave behind ZERO white residue ( which we can’t say about typical deodorant )!

28. Lightweight Binoculars with Phone Adapter

The otherworldly sights of Africa are part of what makes it so unique! As you spot lions and giraffes across the horizon, use travel binoculars to make your sights even more breathtaking. This set will give you cheetah vision with 12X magnification. It can even be connected to most smartphones for simplified sharing. You could invest in a top-notch pair like Vanguard , but these are a great value at a fraction of the cost!

29. Waterproof Pocket Blanket

The landscapes of Africa can range greatly. From sandy beaches to lush forests to muddy plateaus – this pocket blanket is perfect for countless activities like picnics, morning meditations, or sitting in an area that may be less clean than you would like. With a durable waterproof material, it will ensure that no moisture seeps through or ruins your clothes. P.s. travel items are always better in pocket size!

30. Electrolytes

Electrolytes are unsung heroes. Not only do they literally save lives, but diarrhea or food poisoning (from food or water) can leave you seriously dehydrated. This is especially problematic in a hot climate. If you do get sick, mix these tablets with water to replenish the electrolytes you’re losing. Loaded with key nutrients and vitamins, electrolytes will help you combat dehydration and balance your fluid levels more quickly.

31. Headlamp

For any outdoor activities, a headlamp is an effective way to keep your footing on uneven grounds and remain hands-free. If you need to find a restroom in the jungle or need to see in areas with no streetlights, this will keep you safe from accidents. I’ve tried to find a bathroom in the middle of nowhere and ended up in a horrific bed of spiders! Learn from my mistakes and keep this with you to navigate unpredictable areas.

32. Travel Toilet Paper

Sadly, nationwide, there are reports that some African cities aren’t keeping up with the demand for basic toilets. While a resort will certainly have toilet paper, consider excursion days or times when you venture away from your accommodation. Toilet paper may not be available throughout your trip, so keep some on hand that is strong and absorbent. This brand is one of the only options we’ve found that doesn’t reek of harsh chemicals!

33. Mosquito-Repelling Wristbands

Out of 600K malaria deaths in 2021, Africa was home to 95% of malaria cases. While this is an intimidating statistic, thankfully – malaria is easily preventable and treatable with medication. Still, you should be aware of the facts to be prepared. Pack plenty of mosquito spray and these wristbands that allow you to stay consistently protected. Extra caution should be taken in the warm summer months (December through March).

34. Sun Hat with Mosquito Netting

Along the same line of thinking, there are some areas where a netted hat would be wise to wear. This one will offer you mosquito and sun protection along with a built-in sweatband to wick away moisture. The netting can be adjusted, and you can choose to wear it in 3 ways – bucket hat, hat with a neck cover, or hat with a face cover. It’s waterproof, so it won’t be damaged by surprise downpours, and it will help you feel safer against mosquito-borne diseases.

35. Stylish Jumpsuit

Accra in Ghana, Club 57 in Lagos, The Summit Club in Johannesburg – you will have a plethora of awesome nightlife options, so you’ll obviously need a gorgeous outfit! This jumpsuit works for day or evening, flaring out at the waist for a classical dress-like silhouette. It suits the culture well, so you won’t stick out like a sore thumb, and the style is super flattering on many body types.

Other Packing List Items for Africa

• Luggage locks
• Small backpack
• Reusable cloth bag
• Quick-dry towel
• Travel sheet
• Travel pillow
• Memory card
• Headphone splitter
• GorillaPod tripod
• Calcium supplements
• Toothbrush covers
• Bug repellent
• Hand sanitizer
• Contact solution
• Mini hairbrush
• Loofah glove
• Toiletry bag
• Hiking shoes
• Lightweight scarf
• Swimsuit cover-up
• Passport photos
• Other Africa packing lists you may like:
• Kilimanjaro |
• Marrakech |
• South Africa |

What to Wear in Africa?

Though it’s a large and diverse place, when it comes to clothes for Africa, there are three things I’ve found everywhere I’ve visited.

The general rule of thumb is to make sure that you have your shoulders and knees covered, but that doesn’t mean your sense of fashion needs to suffer. Knit capri pants can pair well with flowing t-shirts that can be cute for a day out and easily dressed up for an evening meal. For those who are planning on taking a safari, a simple cotton shirt paired with breathable cargo pants are the way to go.

Most resorts and major cities have a wide variety of nightlife options, so make sure to pack going-out outfits that are both fashionable and dance-able. Protection from the sun is also important, so polarized shades and a wide-rimmed hat are must-haves. Finally, a comfy-pair of shoes and a cute pair of sandals will keep you comfortable and stylish. What should MEN wear in Africa? – (Click to expand) Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Men should be following the same conservative rules as women when it comes to preparing their wardrobes. A quick-dry convertible shirt is convenient for safaris, while a loose-fitting causal button-down is ideal for the nights out. Don’t forget a classic t-shirt! Jersey t-shirts are great for keeping excessive sweating at bay. Cargo shorts are a safe bet for cruising around major cities, as well as the more remote areas that you may visit on safari. Pants that can be converted to shorts are perfect – you can wear them as pants when you need to be conservative, and transition them to shorts for the more casual areas.

Packing for the Seasons in Africa

Dry Season – April, May, June, July, August, September, October:

Most regions in Africa – especially south of the equator – experience a dry period for about half of the year. This time of year is drier but can sport some intense heat. It’s a popular time of year to safari because scarcity of water forces animals to group around watering holes, which means they’re easier to see. Travel conditions are also a bit easier when it’s dry.

Layers are perfect here, as the temperature change can be dramatic from morning to night. A light jacket or fleece will do nicely. Convertible pants are also ideal, as you can adapt them to fit any weather. Be sure to pack good hiking shoes if you’ll be doing anything even remotely active – sneakers won’t cut it. Walking sandals are a great idea as well. If you plan to go out (most people find at least one occasion to do so) bring a knockout outfit and some comfortable but cute flats to dress up. Temperatures vary widely by region, but average between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C).

Wet Season – November, December, January, February, March:

The wet season is, predictably, wet. Rain and humidity dominate the forecast, though you’ll find that certain months have much less rain than others. Heat doesn’t let up – in fact, the humidity can intensify it so plan accordingly.

Quick-dry clothing is essential – think athletic tops , a breathable rain jacket , and convertible hiking pants . Waterproof hiking shoes are non-negotiables, along with a windproof travel umbrella . I also highly recommend bringing a water-resistant daybag to store your daily belongings in. Temperatures vary widely by region, but average between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C).

Safari, in Swahili, means “vacation” and it is the quintessential experience when visiting Africa. Your wardrobe will be contingent upon what season you visit, between rainy and dry seasons. For the rainy seasons, a downpour is never ruled-out so it is imperative that you bring quick-drying clothes and lightweight raingear, as well as hiking shoes that you are not afraid to get muddy. Nights during both the rainy and dry seasons can become chilly, so be sure to pack long sleeve shirts, sweaters, and pants. Layering is your friend, as layers can always be taken off as the day progresses and gets warmer. A daypack is also advised to keep valuables close to you while not obstructing movement or getting in the way.

The African coastline is a haven of beautiful beaches and resorts, from Zanzibar to South Africa. There are many beaches that lay in countries that practice Islam and Christianity, and so it’s best to plan to dress conservatively – even at the beach. One-piece bathing suits and swimsuit cover-ups are always a safe bet. Resorts usually have private beaches, in which case it is not necessary to be as conservative, but it’s always a good idea to ask the front desk if you have any doubts about how to dress appropriately.

Religious Sites

What NOT to Bring to Africa

1. don’t bring.

Short shorts or miniskirts. Revealing clothing is considered inappropriate in almost all parts of Africa. If it doesn’t cover your thighs and knees, leave it at home.

2. DON’T BRING

Lots of cash. Most larger towns and cities throughout Africa have ATMs, so you can access local currency once you arrive. There’s no need to take a ton of cash with you and risk having it get lost or stolen.

3. DON’T TAKE

An Africa-wide guidebook. Some companies publish guidebooks to the whole continent, but with 54 countries to cover, they don’t provide enough information to be useful. Do your generic Africa research online, and then purchase guidebooks to the specific countries or regions you’re visiting.

4. DON’T PACK

More than one pair of jeans. You may want jeans for nights out, but limit yourself to one pair. They’re bulky and heavy, and they take forever to dry. In many parts of Africa, the hot, humid weather means you probably won’t want to wear jeans too often anyway.

5. DON’T PACK

Heavy books. Even one or two books will add serious weight to your luggage, and you’ll probably regret having to carry them around. Instead of physical books, I recommend investing in a Kindle and doing your reading that way.

6. DON’T TAKE

A mosquito net. This is an item I sometimes see on Africa packing lists, but it’s generally not worth bringing. Most accommodations will have a net if one is necessary, and it’s usually not possible to hang up your own anyway.

7. DON’T BRING

A sleeping bag. I’ve also seen packing lists for Africa that include sleeping bags, but they’re big and bulky. There’s no need to bring one unless you’re planning on some serious camping and you’ll need your own gear.

8. DON’T TAKE

Unnecessary valuables. Things can get lost on the road, and there’s always some risk of theft while traveling in Africa. Other than things you’ll really need (like a camera), it’s just not worth bringing lots of valuables with you.

FAQs About Travel in Africa

1. is it safe to travel to africa.

There are risks involved with traveling to certain areas, but visiting Africa is in no way inherently unsafe. Remember that most countries are vastly different from how they’re portrayed in the media or pop culture. Over 65 million people from other continents visit Africa each year, and very few of them have any major problems. If you’re concerned about safety, it’s always best to check country-specific  travel advisories while planning your trip.

2. Is it safe for women to travel to Africa?

Women are pretty safe in Africa. This huge continent contains a lot of countries (54, to be exact!) and so you may find that certain areas are a little less comfortable for females and solo travelers, but for the most part it’s about as safe as most other tourist destinations. Unlike many other parts of the world, however, Africa is a place to watch for travel warnings, as the political and social climates in African countries can be tumultuous at times. This isn’t unique to Africa, of course, but it’s always best to search for the countries you plan to visit on the  US Department of State  website to be sure there aren’t any out-of-the-ordinary threats to tourists at your time of travel.

3. How can I stay healthy in Africa?

Vaccinations:  Beyond making sure you’re up-to-date on basic vaccines – MMR (measles-mumps-rubella), Tdap (tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis), polio, chicken pox, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B – both yellow fever and typhoid vaccinations are recommended for travel to most African countries. The rabies vaccine is only needed for visitors planning to take extended trips to remote areas or come into contact with animals.

Malaria prevention:  Malaria prophylaxis is recommended in almost all African countries, and it’s a good idea to use insect repellent and to sleep under a mosquito net, as well.

Food and drink:  Tap water in Africa is generally not safe for Westerners, so be sure to only drink water that has been treated and to avoid beverages made with tap water or ice. Make sure your food, especially meat, is thoroughly cooked, and skip raw fruits or vegetables unless they can be peeled.

4. What is the weather like?

While large parts of Africa are stereotypically hot, the weather varies across the continent and throughout the year. For planning travel, one key thing to understand is that most of Africa doesn’t have four seasons, but instead has two: rainy and dry. The exact timing of the seasons varies by region, and some experience two rainy seasons and two dry seasons per year. An exception is Southern Africa, where the seasons more closely mimic those in Australia: summer is December-February, and winter is June-August.

5. How much does it cost to travel in Africa?

Africa is generally cheaper than Europe or North America, but it’s not an extreme budget destination. However, travel costs vary significantly by country and region, as well as by travel style. You can spend thousands of dollars per person on luxury safaris, or travel independently for around $50 a day. As in most places, living like a local makes travel quite affordable: stay at basic guesthouses, eat at local restaurants or markets, and use public transportation and shared taxis.

6. How can I access cash or pay for things in Africa?

While credit cards are accepted at major resorts, large safari companies, and some upscale restaurants, cash is definitely king in most parts of Africa, especially outside of Southern Africa. ATMs that dispense local currency and accept international debit cards are common in cities and large towns but don’t be surprised if you have to try a couple before you find one that’s working. Most cities also have forex bureaus where you can easily exchange cash.

7. What kind of adapter will work in Africa?

Several types of electrical outlets are found throughout Africa, but a universal adapter will work in most places. However, if you’re visiting Southern Africa, it’s a good idea to bring a South Africa-specific adapter in addition to the universal one (see #3 in the first section of this article).

8. Where should I go on an African safari?

When people talk about safaris, they’re almost exclusively referring to East and Southern Africa. Kenya,  Tanzania , and South Africa – home to the Maasai Mara, the Serengeti, and Kruger National Park, respectively – are the most popular destinations for safaris, but there are also many excellent safari options in Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

9. What can I do in Africa besides go on a safari?

There are plenty of things to do throughout Africa besides safaris, especially for adventure junkies. Many of the continent’s coastal nations and islands boast picture-perfect beaches and offer an array of water activities, including scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, and kayaking. There are also hiking opportunities in most countries, including world-renowned hikes in Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania. Scenic helicopter, micro-light, and hot air balloon rides are available in a few places in East and Southern Africa, and there are even opportunities to skydive, bungee jump, and zipline. Beyond all the adventure activities, though, the chance to simply explore and experience the local culture is one of Africa’s biggest draws; visiting local markets, taking a walk through town, and talking to the people you meet might end up being some of your most memorable experiences.

10. Which African airlines are the best?

Among the continent’s major airlines, South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Kenya Airways are widely considered the most reputable and are known for operating at Western standards, though many smaller airlines are perfectly safe as well. I advise avoiding any airlines that are under European Union restrictions or that have an extensive list of recent incidents, which you can view on Wikipedia.

11. Can I visit Africa if I only speak English?

Yes! English-speaking visitors can get by in most parts of Africa, though it’s decidedly easier in the half of African countries that use English as an official language (mostly former British colonies). The average person you encounter on the street probably won’t be fluent in English, especially outside the cities, but many people working in tourism and hospitality do speak it. Compared to the rest of the continent, English is much more prevalent in East and Southern Africa.

Traveling Tulls

Eco-Travel in Retirement – Nature and Sustainable Luxury Travel

Complete Guide to Packing for an African Safari

Trunks are packed but not yet zipped. 🙂 We’ve laid out our safari clothes, removed all but the essential and STILL have too much to fit into a small duffel. The issue is that we’re heading to safari camps as well as the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town in South Africa. The nights will be cool and the days hot. We need comforts items for overseas flights and may need ponchos for Victoria Falls. How do we narrow our packing for an African safari adventure? What are the must bring items for an African safari? And what will we choose for our luggage for safari?

This post includes affiliate links. Traveling Tulls gets paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking on one of these. We have not received any products for review. We suggest items we have enjoyed and hope you will too.  DISCLOSURE

Table of Contents

Luggage for Safari – suggestions and restrictions

An African safari involves a lot of hopping around – whether you’re camping on your own, traveling in a group, or bouncing between game camps in a small bush plane. The travel will be dusty, bouncy, and luggage room limited. You will be advised to pack in a soft sided bag with no wheels. You will likely be given a weight restriction which will include your personal items, photo equipment, and gear. On our 2014 trip this was 20 kg or about 40 pounds. Update: In 2019 combined weight for light aircraft is 15 kg or 33 lbs.

If you’re traveling on your own, you will likely have space in your jeep for your gear. If you’re traveling on a luxury safari, you will likely have help with luggage. But don’t count on either. Be sure you are able to carry your own gear. For this reason, we recommend as your luggage for safari a duffel bag with comfortable backpack straps, giving you several carry options.

For more tips read How to Stay Organized on a Long Trip .

Download our Safari Packing List 

Suggested luggage for safari:

• Eagle Creek Load Hauler (49L expands to 59L), Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler (60 L) or similar – reasonably priced bags with organizational features and a No Matter What guarantee. Both have hide away backpack straps for convenient carry.
• Tom Bihn Aeronaut or Techonaut- elegant bags with lots of organizational features. Both of these bags have a maximum capacity of 45L.
• Osprey Transporter (40 or 65L)
• Patagonia Black Hole Duffel a sturdy, water-repellent bag, but well named as a black hole. Pack in colorful cubes to make access easier.

Depending on your overseas flight status, you may be able to fit all of your African safari gear and clothes for safari in your carry-on bags but be prepared for a last minute gate check.

For our flight to South Africa, we weighed and measured all our gear carefully. Everything fit the restrictions for our overseas flight. But when we arrived at the gate for our short hop to Atlanta, we were told they’d changed planes and our bags wouldn’t fit in the overhead. I only panicked a little bit as I dug through my duffel at the gate, pulling out essentials I’d expected to have close by. The next 20 hours or so were awful as I imagined I’d never see my bag again. (bag arrived in Johannesburg with my flight no worse for wear) Don’t be me. Be prepared! 

What to Pack for Safari

In your (guaranteed to fit) carry-on bag, paperwork must haves for an african safari.

• we recommend you photograph and email copies of your drivers license, and credit cards as well.
• Yellow Fever inoculation certificate – check with your country’s health department to see if this inoculation is required. Some countries will require it for entry, i.e., South Africa.
• Visas (if necessary) – you may be able to get your visa online before the flight. But if not, we recommend bringing two passport sized photos with you to facilitate the process.
• Tickets & travel vouchers
• Travel Insurance information – highly recommend getting travel insurance for such an exotic and EXPENSIVE trip.

Gear and Gadgets – (see  Travel Gear: African Safari for more information)

• extra SD cards
• lens wipe or brush (we use a Nikon lens pen )
• Binoculars [optional though highly recommended] – our favorites binoculars for travel here
• iPad or small laptop to review and backup images [optional]
• *Plugs, adapters and chargers for all above
• *Flashlight or headlamp
• Money belt or similar security stash

Health and First Aid

• Malarone – malaria pills – check with your doctor to see what will work for you
• Compression socks for DVT prevention on long flights
• *Bush bathroom helpers – toilet paper, wipes, (Amazon offers a packaged set including toilet seat covers call the Restroom Kit ) and the ladies might want to bring a urination device – Venus to Mars , or a  Go-Girl – for easier ‘going’ mid game drive. (Don’t laugh ladies, safari toilet facilities won’t be your favorite travel memory!)
• Prescription medicine – leave in labeled bottles if possible. Or take a copy of your prescription with you.
• Misc. OTC medications – include any basic medications you might reach for at home. There are no convenient pharmacies in the bush. We carry Advil, Pepcid-AC for heartburn, antihistamines for allergies, Imodium for diarrhea, Bonine for motion sickness, etc.
• *Bug spray (most camps will supply insect repellent but bring some just in case)

Flight Comfort items – see our Essential for Surviving a Long Flight in Coach

Just in Case Carry-On Clothing

We always include a packing cube with a swimsuit, a tee shirt, underwear, and one change of clothing. For this trip, we’d probably bring a bit more, including one safari outfit. It’s also a good idea to split your packing between your bags. Packing at least one outfit in a traveling companion’s bag will be appreciated if you lose your luggage.

Additionally, I recommend a sweater, or poncho, for over air-conditioned planes. I love my Diane Kroe carry-on cozy for this as it also will step in as a cover-up if luggage is lost. See more of my easy to pack favorites here.

* starred items can be checked if you’re short of room.

What to Pack in Your Duffel Bag – can be checked if necessary

Your duffel bag will likely be your ‘bureau’ on this trip, so we recommend you organize your clothing with packing cubes for safari travel. We use compression cubes from Eagle Creek for underwear, swimsuits, and puffy jackets, but prefer a boxier packing cube for safari clothes. When we arrive at our destination, we remove the cubes but leave the clothing in place. It’s easy to find our things that way, and easy to repack for the next game camp. Choosing packing cubes that are different colors will also help with your organization.

Note: most safari camps have options for laundry services. If you don’t expect this on your trip, bring along Woolite packets and a Scrubba wash bag to make washing clothes easier.

Is it necessary to buy safari outfits?

No. You may well have everything you need in your closet! Long, quick-dry pants, and roll-up long sleeve shirts in neutral colors will be fine for you trip. The neutral colors are especially important if you plan on a walking safari or are traveling to East Africa where tsetse flies are attracted to bright blues and black.

Admittedly we bought a few safari style clothing pieces – Columbia pants and Exofficio shirts, and have used them on trips within the U.S. (And investing in the gear was a good reason to plan another safari!)

In Dave’s duffel bag- safari clothing for men:

What’s In His Bag?

• 1 pair khakis and 1 sweater for dinners out in Cape Town
• 1 pair of shorts and 1 bathing suit
• 2 polo shirts and 3 tees in earth tones – merino wool recommended
• 2 button down shirts
• 2 safari style long sleeve shirts treated with permethrin insect repellant**
• Windbreaker (Magellan) and Scottevest tech fleece with removable arms
• Photo vest with insect shield (Exofficio)
• 2 pairs of convertible pants ( Columbia recommended – treat with permethrin**)

In Amy’s luggage- safari clothes for women:

Your itinerary will determine your packing list.

• If you are staying primarily in safari camps, you can limit your packing to safari casual.
• If you’ve chosen luxury safari camps, you CAN stay in safari clothing, but may wish to include a few nicer outfits for the evenings in camp. This is where a nice poncho or colorful skirt will come in handy.
• If you’ll be in Cape Town or another cosmopolitan city, you will want some dressier options.
• If you’ve booked a beach retreat during your vacation, check out the dress code for that area. Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania, is an Islamic area, so modest dress is recommended.
• And, of course, if you’ve planned a stopover on your way to Africa, choose clothing that will work for that location.

Simplify #3, 4, and 5 by using packing cubes dedicated to the city or beach stop. This will save you a lot of digging through clothes when you’re in the game camps.

What’s In Her Bag?

• Windbreaker with removable sleeves ( Scottevest jacket has the versatility of a photographer’s vest without the touristy look!)
• Fleece or a puff jacket in a compression cube for cool morning game drives
• 4 tees, merino wool recommended! These take up little room and are odor resistant!
• 2 scarves – one for safari to keep the dust off, one for keeping warm on the plane and dressing up
• Lightweight cardigan (I love my wrap cardigan, the DKNY cozy)
• 2 lightweight, convertible pants, treated with permethrin** ( Columbia and Mountain Hardwear )
• 2 long sleeve safari shirts, treated with permethrin.** (I’ve included an Exofficio BugsAway tunic which will be great for game drives AND dressy enough for city evenings.)
• Casual tops – 2019 update – I’ve replaced these tees with merino wool tops which take up half the space and are odor resistant!
• Silky dress-up tops
• Safari hat (wide brim for sun protection)
• 1 dress, 1 skirt, 1 travel pants

Necessary Extras

Foldable duffel – on your return flight, pack your clothing in a foldable duffel or pack and check it through to your final destination. Use your carry-on space for souvenirs. Do not underestimate how many beautiful souvenirs you will want to bring home, not just for the memories, but because your patronage is so important to the people you will meet on safari.

Journal – I keep an electronic journal but carry a small Field Notes notebook , or similar, to jot down things as we travel. You will want to record the animals you see, and friends made along the way.

Pen – you’ll need this to fill out paperwork on board the plane! Keep it handy in your personal item or in your safari vest.

**NOTE: It is not necessary to buy specially treated clothing for insect protection. We use Sawyer’s permethrin to treat our clothing. Saturate the clothing (outdoors) and allow to dry thoroughly – at least two hours. This insect repellent should last for 6 washings.

We’re off to Africa again! And we’re traveling carry-on only! Visit Packing for our Second Safari – In a Carry-On to see what we’re taking this time.

What would you include in your safari packing list that we’ve left out? Suggestions very welcome before we head out in a few months!

This article contains referral links. Read our DISCLOSURE .

Amy Tull and Team

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Amy, a writer on responsible bucket list travel, is your reliable source for insightful travel advice. With a career background in libraries, and a degree in biology and mathematics, Amy's approach to travel is rooted in meticulous research and planning, and her commitment to eco-conscious adventures.

Amy’s dedication to sustainable travel practices, including efficient packing techniques, ensures that every adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the traveler's well-being. Trust Amy to guide you towards meaningful and eco-friendly travel, making the most of your retirement years.

A lifelong New England resident, Amy is also the source for insider tips on travel in the Northeastern U.S.

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8 thoughts on “ Complete Guide to Packing for an African Safari ”

Awesome post thanks for the tips!

This is a great find as I might be heading off on a safari in the early part of 2020. I did an overland one back in 2006, but man times have changed!

Change that ‘might be’ to ‘will’! And share whatever you plan.

Great tips! I never would have guessed tsetse flies would be attracted to black!

I know!!! I’m so used to packing black that it’s a bit of a challenge!

Well as you know packing has been very much on my mind this week – we leave in ten days! Loved your suggestions here. We also will be in several African nations on our journey (Kenya, Zambia, Botswana, Mauritius, Uganda and Rwanda). Are you going to any of those this time?

We are going to Kenya, but went to Zambia and Botswana last time. Excited to read your whole itinerary!

Thanks for sharing such an interesting article about safari. want to see more.

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African Safari Packing List & Planning Guide for Women & Men

A complete African safari packing list for women and men from my recent trip to Africa, experiencing safaris in Zambia, Chobe National Park in Botswana, and Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

In this post:

• General African Safari Checklist & Planning Tips
• Must Haves for African Safari (which sunblock, insect repellent, shoes, hat etc)

African Safari Clothing Tips

Safari outfit ideas.

• Travel Essentials: Toiletries (Which toiletries you should pack and which your hotel will likely provide)
• Travel Essentials Electronics

General International Travel Packing Tips

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General African Safari Checklist

• Passport photos
• Proof that you have somewhere to stay in the country (i.e. hotel reservation or safari booking information)
• Proof that you have a flight out or enough funds to purchase a flight out of the country. This is no joke. Once, on my way to Singapore, I was forced to buy a “cheap” flight out of the country as proof out, and the administrator told me it could be refunded, when it couldn’t . Have your flight out of the country purchased on hand. They may not ask for it, but if they do, don’t be surprised.
• Get Cash in US Dollars:  Typically, I suggest that a person pulls cash from an ATM at the airport on arrival, to ensure the best currency conversion rate. However, in the countries I visited (Zambia, Botswana, and Tanzania), US dollars were preferred. In fact, upon arrival to the Tanzania airport, we could only pay for our visas in cash with US dollars. We had to dispense cash from the airport ATM (which gave us Tanzania shillings) and then convert it to US dollars at the airport currency conversion booth, before we could purchase our visa on arrival.
• Hotel House-Keepers / Butlers
• Tour Guides
• Help with Luggage
• Bar Tenders
• Update your Vaccinations 4-6 weeks before your trip
• Request Malaria Pills (start taking one week before your trip, and take up to one week after your trip)
• Check for blank pages in your passport: you’ll need space for more than just a few stamps. My Tanzania visa on arrival takes up an entire page in my passport.
• Print your booking information: phones die, wifi isn’t always up to par and the best way to safely know where you are going is with a hard copy. Each person in your group should have your booking information. Should anyone get lost or separated from the group without a means of communication, they too can make it safely to your hotel.
• Contact your bank: Online or in-person, let your bank know that you will be traveling, so that they don’t put your account on hold for “fraud.”
• Book accommodation in advance for better rates. We stayed at the Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls in Zambia (did day trips to Botswana and Zimbabwe from there) and at the Four Seasons Serengeti in Tanzania. 

Important Note (Before You Keep Reading)

Full transparency: some of the items we share in this post contain affiliate links. This means that while we researched and chose the best products that worked for our trip (unsponsored), referring you to these products can earn us a commission at no extra cost to you . Turn off your ad blocker to see the photos and links to the products we used and prefer.  Sometimes, when packing, I pair new items with things I already have in my closet. Throughout the African safari packing list — if I can’t remember where I got the exact product I wore on a trip — I suggest similar items.

Any commission from online purchases go to the maintenance of this website, so that we can continue to research and share free tips for you. It’s an easy way to support your favorite bloggers, thanks in advance!

Must Haves for African Safari

The most important part of your African safari packing list isn’t the clothes, it’s what keeps you safe! Don’t leave home without the following:

• We used the Repel Sportsman at 40% lotion
• Sunblock – I don’t usually worry too much about sunblock as I don’t burn, I tan. However, with temperatures reaching 105 degrees, even this little Mexican-American had to lather up! We used Sunsect Insect Repellant + Sunscreen . It’s nice enough on your skin to wear on your face. It doesn’t smell and that’s the best part.
• Medicated ointment for when you do get bit. If you’re in mosquito-prone areas for long enough, chances are you’ll get at least a few bug bites. I’ve tried so many anti-itch creams, and swear by Chiggerex for saving me during my trip to Africa.
• Advil to help with the swelling of any bug bites.
• Anti-diarrheal: Taking malaria pills can come with malaria-like side effects. Not to mention that foreign water and food can cause an upset stomach. Have something on hand; it’s better to be safe than sorry. The brand recommended by  Kaiser Permante  is MAJOR.
• Wear neutral colors and avoid black, blue or white for the actual safaris.
• Army / Camouflouge print is illegal in some areas as it is associated with military teams.
• Keep your feet covered with socks and boots as they’re the most vulnerable to bug bites.
• It’s quite cold at sunrise, bring a light jacket.
• It’s very hot during the day. Wear cool, light fabrics.
• Enjoy the hotel! A cute cocktail outfit or swimsuit for play at the hotel is all in good fun, at your disclosure.

Experiencing a Rhino Walk with the Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Resort in Zambia

African Safari Shoes based on Safari Experience Types

I based my African safari packing list on the type of excursions and accommodation we had booked. Had we been back-packing, our list could look different.

We didn’t do an aggressive trek-through-the-jungle-for-days-at-a-time trip. We took day trips and half day trips from our hotels. This not only minimized packing and unpacking, but enabled us to have a nice clean space to rest in between safari encounters. Our safari experiences can be summarized as follows:

Big Five Game Drives : during these trips, we were in a car, viewing animals at a safe distance. Closed-toed shoes were ideal for protecting our feet from mosquitos, however admittedly, we sometimes snuck in some comfortable, low heeled, close-toed wedges. You’re not exactly walking around, you’re driving around, so the shoes didn’t matter too much as long as they’re comfortable.

Safari River Cruise: The safari that brought us closest to animals was by boat. Again, any type of shoe really works here as you’ll be seated.

The Safari River Cruise, Chobe National Park, Botswana — Day Trip from Victoria Falls

Rhino Walk: A short walk through the bush gets you to a rhino conservation park in Zambia. The walk is very short and comfortable. Wear any shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty, and pants to cover your legs in the light bush.

Micro Lighting Over Victoria Falls : while flying over this Natural World Wonder, I was able to spot elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and more. Closed-toed shoes are necessary for this experience.

Animal Encounters from our Hotel : we were able to see zebras, giraffes, monkeys and hippos from the comfort of our hotel at Victoria Falls, the Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls  — and able to see elephants and gazelles at the watering hole of our pool at the Four Seasons Serengeti Lodge .

These beautiful luxury hotels allow you to dress at your discretion. We wore dressier, trendy, safari-inspired outfits and paired them with chunky heels. Many people stayed in their sporty activewear, and many people joined us in the opportunity to doll up. Wear what you please during your hotel experience. It’s YOUR African safari packing list — wear what you want!

Travel Blogger Stephanie Be (that’s meee!) at the Royal Livingstone Resort Victoria Falls , Zambia Note: this is not Photoshopped … I was that close to the zebras on property, and you can be too!

Hiking to Victoria Falls: we didn’t know that you could truly hike from Zambia to Zimbabwe through Victoria Falls. Be sure to bring cash to tip a guide as you’ll head off the beaten path in a way that you can’t explore without a guide. If you’d like this experience, I highly recommend comfortable boots, hiking or running shoes. We wore shorts and it worked just fine, but pants may be more comfortable in a few parts of the bush.

Swimming at the Devil’s Pool Victoria Falls: There are strict, guided tours to swimming in the Devil’s Pool, which is for tourist safety. You’ll need water shoes or have to keep barefoot for the swim.

My Safari Boots

No African safari packing list is complete without a good pair of safari boots!

The boots that I wore the most throughout my experience, were WELL worth the $60. They were not only very comfortable for safaris, hiking to the falls and the rhino walk, but also super cute in tying together my “safari looks.” They had good traction and were tough, I highly recommend them. 

These boots were my #1 must have African safari accessory … alongside my safari hat!

Microlighting over Victoria Falls, Zambia/ Zimbabwe

How to Pack Your Safari Shoes

You’re going to be picking up all kinds of interesting dirt and grime, and you don’t want it to get all over your clean clothes.

Grab a set of shoe bags with a clear “viewing window,”.

My African Safari Hat

If there is anything that tied my outfits together and put me in the safari “zone” was my African safari hat. I considered the following characteristics in picking my hat:

• Foldable (packing is a real deal)
• Shady, but light-weight (it’s hot)
• Color that contrasts my hair (personal preference for color “pops” in photos)
• String to hang the hat

My best friend and I both got a safari hat from Wombat Leather.  It not only looked great with everything but really lasted the wear and tear of so many adventures.

A post shared by Stephanie Be | TravelBreak (@stephbetravel) on Oct 29, 2017 at 1:38pm PDT

I do wish that I had packed a variety of hats and not just one. The safari hat really does “make” your outfit, so if you can stack them when you pack them, grab a few in different colors from the same brand.

How to Pack Your Safari Hat

You have three options to integrate your hats into your African safari packing list:

• Wear it on flights.
• Add it to your suitcase, rolling clothing inside the head section to fill it out and keep it from being smashed.
• Pack it in a hard case hat box.

Before you start shopping for your African safari packing list, check out our own looks!

• Combat green romper with safari hat.
• High-waisted pants with a cute top and safari hat. Shop similar from Nordstrom’s.
• Fun top, shorts and safari combat boots.
• Maxi dress for the hotel.
• Dress or skirt and top for high-tea at the hotel.
• Beach outfit for the hotel pool, the Devil’s Pool or a Zanzibar-like trip.

 Safari Outfit Ideas – Combat green romper with safari hat. Travel Blogger Stephanie Be (that’s me!) with the Four Seasons in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Safari Clothing and Accessory Checklist (Women)

• Safari top/bottom
• Light jacket for sunrise and sunset
• Bras & Underwear
• Swimsuit Coverup
• Water shoes or Flip Flops
• Cheap Sunglasses
• Cocktail dress or romper
• High-Tea Dress or Assemble
• Cocktail/ High-tea shoes
• Comfortable sundress for the hotel or shopping
• Fashion jewelry (if applicable — leave valuables at home)
• Comfortable, Warm Clothing for Flights

Safari Outfit Ideas Mix and Match

Some of our looks from Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Tanzania. Revise this inspiration for your own African safari packing list!

High-waisted wide leg khaki pants and tight olive top.

Definitely add this long sleeve denim top to your African safari packing list! Pair with white short and olive top.

High-waisted wide leg olive pants with tight black top.

White button up blouse, leopard print sunglasses, and high waisted olive bottoms.

Knit cover up over black halter for sunrise safari.

African Safari Packing List (Men)

• Swim trunks
• Swim T-shirt
• Water Shoes or Flip Flops
• Cocktail Attire
• Cocktail Shoes
• Comfortable light clothing for hotel
• Watch, cuff links (if applicable — leave valuables at home)

International Travel Essentials: Toiletries

Your African safari packing list wouldn’t be complete without your everyday essentials! But what do you pack, and what’s there when you get there?

Most hotels will have great body wash, moisturizer, shampoo and conditioner. However, if you’re staying at an AirBNB or have allergies, add the following to your African safari packing list:

• Conditioner
• Body Lotion

Toiletries that most hotels are less likely to have:

You can order all of this online. This is a super easy way to avoid forgetting anything in your African safari packing list! Carry on liquids needs to be 3.4 oz (100 mil) or less.

• Tooth Paste
• Tooth Brush
• Face wipes / make-up removing wipes
• Face moisturizer
• Shaving cream
• Feminine care products
• Tweezers, nail clippers
• Safety Pins

African Safari Packing List (Optional)

• Hair Product (Hairspray, gel etc)
• Bobby pins, Hair Ties, Clips
• Dry Shampoo (life-saver!)
• Curling iron or flat iron… FYI we both forgot our curling iron and could not find one at any airport. If you’re all about it, make sure you don’t forget it!
• Eye Drops (whether or not you wear contacts, your eyes will dry out from flights)
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Case
• Contact Solution
• Prescription Eye Glasses

Leave most of your makeup at home. Seriously. There’s enough to keep track of in your African safari packing list. The less the better, and you’ll have better things to do than get creative with your makeup. 

• NYX  Setting Spray: I only wear this when I’m going to be taking a lot of photos and want my makeup to last. It really does make a big difference in how long your makeup holds! The NYX Matte Setting Spray also keeps your foundation from appearing oily when it gets hot.
• Concealer /  Contour
• Power/ Foundation
• Eyeshadow & Eye Brow Palette
• Lipstick /  Lip Moisturizer
• Highlighter/ Bronzer +  Blush (get a set like this one to minimize packing or just get the “ uncomplicated brush se t”)
• Brushes (I like the small, double sided ones for travel purposes) and the cleansing brush wipes

International Travel Essentials Electronics

Your African Safari packing list wouldn’t be complete without the energy that keeps you going! Don’t forget this list, and consider the  Powerbank charging luxury backpack to keep it all organized.

• Travel Adapter: I’ve been through a lot of these and tried several brands. This one has two USBs and two outlets. It’s  is great for cameras, laptops and iPhones — but does not convert voltage for curling irons and hair dryers. TESSAN Travel Adapter
• You’re going to start charging your goods with one adapter for the country and realized you need many more plugs. I highly recommend a travel power strip. I use the Flat Plug Power Strip .
• Powerbank: I use this solar-powered one!

Camera Options

You’re 100% going to want to take a camera. You can read my three camera guides for more details:

• DSLR (Cannon)
• iPhone Only Photography
• GoPro Photography

You can also rent lenses during your stay at the Four Seasons Lodge in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.

Photography brings my memories to life!

An African safari packing list wouldn’t be complete without a guide on how to organize it! Please refer to my general packing tips for international travel.

• Put valuables that you absolutely need in your carryon (i.e. camera, passport, jewelry etc).
• Leave most valuables at home.
• Use packing cubes to pack by destination and daily use items. For example, an electronics cube, a toiletries cube, and clothing cubes in sets. That way you can leave clothing cubes packed up that you aren’t using at a destination. I am absolutely OBSESSED with these packing cubes. They not only serve well for international trips but are also great for meetings and weekenders. Everything in my bag stays the same (electronics etc). They’re super cheap and extremely helpful in getting more into your suitcase, but more importantly, keeping everything in place. I did a lot of research on the right packing cubes and settled on these because I like a laundry pouch with a zipper (keeps any smells away from your clean clothing).
• Consider your transit route. For example, we stayed at Victoria Falls in Zambia because it was easy to do a day trip to Botswana, a day trip to Zimbabwe, and leave our belongings for the first three countries, packing a carryon only for Tanzania, and breaking up the many flights with a stop in Zambia to pick up our belongings and rest before flying back to South Africa an, to Dubai and Los Angeles. We cut our packing and unpacking time by staying at the same hotel and doing day trips.
• Check baggage allowance for flights. You’re going to have a greater allowance for an international flight than for a quick one or two-hour flight within the country. Talk to your first hotel about leaving belongings there, as you won’t be able to take large suitcases on tiny charters into the national parks.

That’s it for now! Any recommendations to make my African Safari Packing List better?

For my upcoming blog posts on Zambia, Botswana, and Tanzania — follow along for updates on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

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African Safari Packing List: 15 Must-Haves

Woohoo! You’ve booked a trip to the continent of Africa, and going on safari is a big part of your itinerary. Now, it’s time to start prepping your packing list and at this point, you might be wondering what you’ll need for your safari adventures. I’m here to help!

It’s important to make packing decisions that revolve around specifically where and when you plan to visit being that climate can vary wildly on this continent. This will be one of the most important things to consider to create the perfect packing list for pretty much anywhere in Africa.

One thing to note about the seasons: Instead of spring, summer, fall, and winter, most countries in Africa have dry and rainy seasons.

For most safari destinations, the dry season runs from mid-December to March. During the dry season, Africa often sees intense heat and drought, but it s also the best time for safaris because roads are more navigable, visibility is better for spotting animals, and humidity is low.

The main rainy season, on the other hand, usually goes from late April to early August. During the rainy season, Africa sees a lot of flooding, high humidity, and more mosquitoes, but it’s also the most scenic time to visit as the brush and foliage is green and lush and the birds can be viewed migrating.

Below are the top things I would never go on safari without. We typically visit Africa during the dry season, so this list coincides with the climate this time of year specifically.

Let’s start with attire. For safari excursions, you’ll want to wear loose and comfortable clothing that is lightweight, breathable, and moisture wicking. It’s also important to avoid wearing brightly colored clothes on safari. (Keep an eye out for my next post on safari attire that explains why.)

• Lightweight Shirts . I found most of my lightweight, neutral colored tops at REI and they’ve proven to be functional, comfortable, and even stylish for every excursion. Button-down blouses are also great for layering and allow for adjusting with the rapidly changing weather conditions that can occur over the course of the day.
• Hiking Pants . Again, neutral colored and lightweight hiking pants will especially come in handy for those chilly morning safaris before the sun has had a chance to heat things up. Even in the dry season, the brush will be covered in enough morning dew to make your legs wet if on a walking safari, so pants will also be welcomed protection from elements. (Like my shirts, I also found some of my favorite hiking pants at REI. Here are some examples: prAna pants , Columbia pants , REI pants )
• Hiking Shorts . Shorts will serve you best for afternoon safaris when the sun is hot and the morning dew is burned off. Here’s an example of a reliable pair of shorts very similar to the ones I wear. A couple of the hiking pants I linked above are also convertible and can be turned into shorts.
• Jacket. Because temperatures can change dramatically throughout the day, I was always glad to have a warm jacket or windbreaker just in case I needed an extra layer, especially for our cool, early morning safaris.
• Crew Socks . I suggest bringing a bunch of crew length wool socks, which are comfortable, breathable, and prevent overheating. Some of my favorite brands are Smartwool and Darn Tough.
• Hiking Boots . Invest in a lightweight, comfortable boot with good ankle support. A solid, comfortable hiking boot is key especially if you plan on walking safaris or afternoon bush walks. Between my sister, brother, mom, and myself, we’ve had good luck with brands like Merrell, Salomon, and Keens. I have these Merrell boots , which always keep me comfortable through long days of exploring on my feet. For the guys, my brother is happy with his Salomon boots.

Beyond Clothing:

• Camera. This may be an obvious item for any avid traveler, but I can’t emphasize enough how picturesque and breathtaking the views will be in this beautiful destination. Having a reliable camera ready to capture the unforgettable memories you’re guaranteed to make on safari is a must.
• Water Bottle/Canteen. Afternoons under the sun in Africa WILL get HOT. Make sure you stay hydrated with water on the go.
• Binoculars. Don’t miss a single sighting. Having a set of binoculars was a huge help when an animal was spotted in the distance or around. a location that we couldn’t navigate to up close.
• Portable Charger. If you’re going to be out on safari all day, having backup chargers really came in handy when phone and camera batteries began to run low. Having a portable charger will help you avoid missing a single moment.
• Insect Repellent. When out on safari, beware of the tsetse flies, blood-sucking insects with a painful bite. Some recommend to get repellent with 30% deet or higher, but I’m pretty sure we quickly upgraded to the highest deet percentage available after our first day.
• Sunscreen. That African sun is fierce, always always always protect your skin and apply SPF throughout the day.
• Sunglasses. That sun is fierce and the last thing you’ll want is to risk missing a rare sighting because you were squinting into the sun.
• Hat . A hat with a brim of some kind is another great way to protect your face from the sun.
• Gaiters. These especially came in handy for when we either left the safety of the safari jeep to explore by foot or to take bush walks during our downtime. Gaiters can protect your legs from thorns in dense brush as well as ticks and other unwanted creatures.

Figuring out what to put on your safari packing list for a safari-packed itinerary can be stressful, but hopefully this post helps relieve some of that stress! Please keep an eye out for future posts on comprehensive safari packing advice to guide you on what to wear on this adventure of a lifetime.

Have questions or is there something I missed that you think should be on my safari packing list? Let’s chat in the comments! 🙂

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5 Must Haves For An African Safari

Preparing for a trip to Africa? Perhaps you have an African safari planned, well here are the 5 must haves for an African safari!

Modupe Sonuyi • Sep 22, 2014

So you’re heading out on your first ever African safari? Great! Now that you’ve packed your telephoto lens, plenty of sunblock and tons of comfortable clothes for layering, allow me to share a few tips that you may not find on most ‘must have’ safari lists but are definite necessities if you want to maximize your wildlife experience!

  1.  Pack your patience .  If you missed that perfect photo op of a lioness grooming her cub, worry not! The opportunity for some seriously dope pics are plentiful. Just be patient and ready to point and shoot!

2.  Don’t leave that open mind at home .  This is the wild, as in no filters!  You may not always agree with or be mentally prepared for what may unfold (I’m looking at you savage hyenas).  Just keep in mind that other passengers may be completely fascinated by events such as a ‘kill’.  If you find it’s not really your thing, just politely ask your guide when it’s okay to open your eyes!

3.  Think small. Get low .  While most of your bush experience will deliver that jaw dropping kind of beauty right to your lens, don’t forget to look around and capture the not so obvious things that nature has to offer. Every once in a while sneak a peek at what’s in your periphery, up high or down low (This is how I once spotted a black mamba creeping around our vehicle!).

4.   Be considerate. Hi, I’m Modupe and I’m a recovering question hogger!   During your African safari  ask plenty of questions, but don’t forget that other passengers may have great questions too. Make sure you’re not hogging all the Q & A time. You learn tons either way!

5.  Don’t be afraid to put your camera down.    Some of your fondest memories will be those moments where you sit in utter awe and disbelief at what’s happening in front of you. Take it all in! Not every moment should be experienced through your view finder.

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• Sep 30, 2019

Photography bag checklist - 20 must haves for an African Safari

Organising a Safari may seem like the hardest part, but I would argue that organising all your equipment is just as painstaking, and equally important. After over ten years as a wildlife photographer, I have decided I would compile my camera bag "20 must haves" to make the most of your trip.

1. Memory cards – I cannot stress this enough, there is never too many memory cards in your bag! You need more than you think! I still, to this day, am surprised at how easily you can fill up a memory card on a good day. This is not just simply solved by getting one or two 128 GB cards. Trust me when they stop working you realise how many pictures can be lost. My advice is to stick to multiple 32 GB/64 GB cards. They are big enough to not be a hassle and small enough to not have all your eggs in one basket.

2. A dust sheet – Africa is dusty. Not just any kind of dust, this dust is so fine it will get into every possible camera or lens joint. Rather than waiting till the end of the day to clean your equipment, take precautions throughout the day. I cover my camera with a microfiber blanket when I put it down on the car seat between shots. This way it is easily accessible but still covered.

3. Cleaning equipment – Bring your cleaning equipment with you, and clean cameras every day if possible. I will emphasise this point again, the dust is a killer!

4. A full range of lenses – The moment you say “I’ll leave my wide angle lens at home, I won’t need it” is the trip you find out a rare meteor shower will be seen from a beautiful spot overlooking the Kalahari. Try to travel light but do your research, there is always a surprise awaiting you in Africa, don’t get caught out.

5. Lens hoods – It is not just dusty it's also sunny in this part of the world, and lens hoods come in very handy for that silhouette shot of a lion into the sunset.

6. Charger and equally as important a universal adapter – I recently cursed as I was in and out of every shop in Kasane looking for a square to round adapter, the truth is sometimes you may not be lucky!

7. Spare batteries – The best investment ever made when growing your equipment list, spare batteries can be a lifesaver. Even the pros sometimes run out of power!

8. Custom camera strap (If walking) – This is something I am yet to do myself, but the advice is it can half that pain of carrying often very heavy equipment around.

9. A good gimbal head and tripod – I always take mine wherever I go. The truth is I probably only use it 10% of the time, but it takes one missed opportunity to remember why that is my steadfast rule. It is the base to your shot, don’t underestimate it!

10. Natural density filters – This is my solution to not getting broken, scratched and dusty lenses. Bonus - they're cheap and easy to replace; unlike your lens.

11. Silicone Camera Cover – This is purely another protective barrier for your camera. The downside is that they do attract dust, so thorough cleaning is needed each day. Keep in mind that most of the covers prohibit you from seeing the diagrams and writing on your camera buttons. If you are still learning and unsure of settings I advise against getting one. Check out: http://www.wexphotographic.com/camera-protection-easy-cover/b3055-m524Ground

12. Base plate – Surprisingly not as expensive or as complicated to make as the price tag indicates. I refused to pay £100 for what looked like a frying pan with a hole in the middle. I took to drilling a hole in an old melamine plate (very light). This is not a flawless solution as I am already on my 4th one (largely due to them being crushed by moving car seats back), but it is a lot cheaper! I also use this base plate with my gimble tripod head as my travel tripod solution. It is light and easy to transport, it also allows getting a nicer low angle for subjects. Trust me - don’t be afraid to get creative!

13. Rain cover (believe it or not!) – It does rain. Don't be surprised if your best sightings take place during a downfall, so always have one handy for just in case.

14. A good map – Contrary to popular belief, they are definitly not undated. Sure, it'll take you from A to B but a good detailed map will often indicate other attractions and other 'non-touristy' sites.

15. A notepad and pen/pencil – The truth of the matter is, you wont find a lion around every corner. Reality is, this is the wild. Often you are left waiting in a bird hide or photographic bunker for literally anything of minute interest. Keep a diary, make a bird list, or if you're feeling inspired, sketch the animals you’ve seen.

16. A multi-tool – Things break, and far too often in Africa. The important reminder is that the opticians you need to fix the screw in your glasses may be further than down the street on a safari. A good multi-tool may be the saviour of a very out of focus looking elephant.

17. Insurance – For both you and your cameras. Crime or even just an accident can be a disaster and have serious financial ramifications. Luckily, if you've got a good insurance cover it might not be the end of the road for your photographic ambitions. It also pays to keep the information with you, just in case.

18. Sunscreen and a hat – Whether it is on a walking safari or simply in the car. There's nothing worse than being sun burnt in already hot weather conditions.

19. A beanbag – This is not a must, but it can come in very handy. If you have not got one yet I suggest either A. Making one yourself, or B. making sure you buy one that can be filled at the location. My reason being lugging a 1 or 2 kg beanbag only adds to the back problems all photographers have due to heavy equipment. For great beanbags and other custom photographic supplies: http://www.wildlifewatchingsupplies.co.uk/retail/acatalog/Camera-Bean-Bags-test.html

20. Patience! – This one is the easiest to bring with you, but often I find it is the easiest to forget. In Africa, nothing can be rushed, especially not the wildlife. The sun will always set too soon, the lion will take forever to get up from its snooze in the long grass, and your bags may still miss your flight regardless of your rush. Enjoy the time you have, wait for the perfect moments, and appreciate your surroundings. The normal protocol is to watch the sunset with a gin and tonic while you wait for your bags that are coming “just now”.

The final note is; enjoy every single moment. Capturing every photograph may seem like the most important aspect of your trip, but the time you spend on safari should always be about enjoying every single moment as it happens.

I hope this has been helpful. If you would like any advice, help or simply have a question on safari's and photography safari's in Southern Africa, please do not hesitate to get in touch!

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9 Best Summer Must-Haves On Our List!

Get ready to bask in the summer sun and outdoor fun! Warm-weather enthusiasts yearn for the laid-back days of the season. The thrill of preparing for outdoor adventures, the joy of anticipating fun-filled days, and the satisfaction of knowing we’re fully prepared for anything—that’s what truly sets summer apart. The days of hibernation are behind us, and the call to embrace the outdoors with a carefree mentality is here!

Picture-perfect nights, sun-drenched days, and leisurely poolside lounging are on the agenda. So grab a chair, a refreshing drink, and a little shade, and embrace these essentials that will make it a summer to remember.

• Summer Vacay on the Ranch 

Are you still searching for a unique getaway, one that involves outdoor activities, animals, and peaceful pleasures? Look no further than Oak Meadow Ranch, where conservation meets resort living. The 30-acre ranch combines the thrill of an African safari with a remote open air destination that is a vacation paradise for all ages. Owner Kristin Navarro combines her expertise in event planning with her conservation work to create a natural habitat that both animals and visitors enjoy!

Oak Meadow Ranch is located outside of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas. For more information, visit www.oakmeadowranch.com and start planning your unforgettable vacation today!

• A Stylish Island Life

Be swimsuit-ready this year and embrace the island vibe with our latest bikini styles , a must-have for the modern woman’s wardrobe, designed to take you from the gym to the water. These designs highlight your confidence and comfort, radiating a playful spirit and a connection to nature’s beauty and island life’s simplicity. The “Current Valley” swimwear in citrus green perfectly blends style and ease. 

Discover Strait The Label  and the “Rooted” collection, featuring everything you need for effortless summer essentials.

• Just Keep Swimming

We love to cool off in the summer with a dip in the pool. But has stringy, tangled, discolored swimmers’ hair got you down? Ditch the damage and discoloration with this must-have tune-up tool for every swimmer. It removes chlorine, copper, and other pool elements to reveal shiny, vibrant, more manageable hair.

Check out the Malibu C Swimmers Wellness® Remedy , the top hair care choice for professional swimmers.

• The Next-Generation Beach Gear

Here’s the easiest and best set-up for beach shade this summer. The revolutionary silver-top beach umbrella and anchor system provides superior UPF 50+ sun and heat protection and unmatched wind resistance. Set it up in 10 seconds and sit back and relax, even on the windiest days. This high-quality, durable umbrella can be used on all types of beach surfaces, offering a stylish way to keep covered and cool under the sun’s rays. Ultra-functional and made with eco-friendly materials, it’s your perfect companion for a shaded, breezy beach experience in the sun, sand, and surf!

Don’t miss out on the Umbrella and Anchor system, available now at Handy Beach Goods .

• No More “Ruff” Times

Approximately one-third of dogs are affected by fear of loud noises. Fourth of July fireworks, travel season, and summer thunderstorms can cause our furry family members much anxiety. Show your pet how much you care by giving them these specially designed noise-canceling headphones . They’ll be part of the fun without the added stress, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing they’re safe and comfortable this summer.

Visit PAWNIX  for the best-fitting headphones that bring joy (and calmness) to dogs everywhere! Bow! Wow!

• Clever Hack to Keep Food Fresher

What better place to start lowering your carbon footprint than inside your refrigerator? These 100% natural zeolite “smart mineral” refrigerator filters help cut grocery bills and save money by reducing costly food waste and saving energy while controlling odors and moisture so you can serve fresher, better-tasting food all summer long.

Shop Polar Fresh ® at Humidity Control Systems, Inc.

• Blending Tie Dye Into Your Summer Wardrobe

Summer boredom, meet your match. Engage in an activity that not only provides hours of entertainment but also allows you to express your unique style. Whether you’re gearing up for a family reunion, throwing a backyard bash, or just looking for a creative outlet with the kiddos, the art of tie-dye is a versatile, hands-on experience the whole family will enjoy. With vibrant colors, you can create unique tees, socks, and accessories that will bring back summertime memories all year long. And when it comes to tie-dye, no one does it better than Tulip Tie-Dye, America’s favorite and most trusted brand. Get your hands on a tie dye kit today and unlock the potential for creating the most popular summer looks (psst…even Swifties love the style)!

Check out the summer fun at Tulip Tie Dye .

• Full Body Freshness

Staying odor-free this summer is a sure thing with the right product. Don’t settle for a sticky deodorant stick, choose the effectiveness of a full body deodorizing supplement that works from the inside out! Let It Just Works’ powerful, all-natural proprietary formula cleanse your body from within, absorbing odor-causing toxins before they reach your skin and breath. Simply take 1 or more capsules daily for tip-to-toe freshness. You’ll be confident in its effectiveness as you enjoy fresher summer days, free from the bad stuff.

Shop for your choice of It Just Works body deodorizing supplements here .

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• Rhinestone-Encrusted Drinkware

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