safari lite luggage

Best safari luggage – Duffel bags & backpacks for African travels

The best African safari luggage is completely different to the necessary luggage for a city trip or backpacking expedition.

There are some very unique conditions that make it important to choose specific safari luggage. This includes the dusty savanna, cramped buses, and a jam-packed Land Cruiser bouncing into the wilderness.

The single most important part of African travel is having a suitable bag . Everything else you can work out after you have arrived.

But what is the best luggage for an African safari? Is it a duffel bag or backpack? And if so, what are the best safari bags for your trip?

In this guide, we’ll detail everything you need to know .

Best Luggage for Travel to Africa: The Basics

An elephant does not care what you look like. Neither does a lion or even a safari guide .

So put the fancy clothes away and get practical . The wilderness simply isn’t a place for frivolities, and that starts with your safari luggage.

First, take a look at our detailed guide on what to pack for an African safari. In short – pack light and keep it simple .

Why? Well, however you plan to travel in Africa, it’s going to be full, and there isn’t enough space for big safari luggage.

• Light aircraft safari flights have strict 15 kg baggage weight limits.
• Safari vehicles are generally designed for off-roading and don’t have much space for luggage.
• Travel on public transport, and you must be comfortable carrying your own luggage, including walking with it for more than a kilometer.

On an African adventure, you will be moving from place to place. On many safaris, you go to a different camp every day.

So there isn’t even time to unpack everything. Just take the basics and stay practical – this isn’t a fashion statement!

It doesn’t help if you are a wizard at folding safari clothing into crease-free, super-flat, super-organized piles. If your safari luggage is a complete dinosaur, it’s going to be disastrous.

And all the skillful arrangement adds up to nothing if your bag weighs more than King Kong with the Empire State Building in his left hand and a distressed blonde in his right!

What is the Best Luggage for Safari?

It is important to choose the right luggage for your African safari. This way, you can ensure the safety of all your belongings , whether on the plane, bus, or the savanna.

As mentioned above, you will need to pack light. And in addition to sticking to the strict weight limits, the bag should be able to hold all your clothing and gear .

Chances are you’ll need to pack several layers for those warm days and cold nights. You may also need space for your camera equipment .

Luckily, there are many lightweight duffel bags and backpacks that fit the bill. Below is a breakdown of the best safari duffel bags, backpacks, and travel bags for your next African adventure.

Best duffel bag for safari

Soft-sided luggage for safari is a must , and there are many duffel bags that offer exactly that. They are also spacious enough to store up to a week’s worth of clothing and toiletries, along with your other safari gear.

Depending on which African safari you’re visiting, it may help to look for a technical duffel bag .

These travel bags have unique features that can help a ton when out in the wilderness. Common features include a water-repellent shell and detachable straps .

But what is the best duffel bag for an African safari? Top brands to look out for include The North Face, Travelpro, and Red Oxx .

Best backpack for safari

While duffel bags are the preferred pick, backpacks are good too – especially if you’re going on a walking safari through Mana Pools National Park or elsewhere in Africa.

Like duffel bags, backpacks for safari need to be light , durable , and compressible . They also need to have enough pockets and compartments to store your belongings securely.

Backpacks also make for a good secondary bag. As such, opt for a roll-top as these can easily fit into your larger duffel bag during your flight and transfer. This way, you’re getting the best of both worlds.

What is the best safari backpack? Recommended picks include the Saddleback Leather backpack and the Targus Drifter.

Other safari travel bags

In addition to your safari duffel bag or backpack, there are a few other luggage items you may want to bring along.

These items are fanny packs , dopp kits , and camera bags . Each of these can easily fit into a larger bag and can come in hand when on a safari.

Remember to only bring these along if necessary as you might need the extra space.

How to Pick the Best Luggage for African Safari

Let’s recap on the conditions, especially if you haven’t been on a safari in Africa.

On an African safari, you will be driving off-road , often on arid landscapes shrouded in dust. If it’s not dusty, it will probably be muddy.

Take a holiday at an all-inclusive beach resort, and you only use your luggage once – to get from your home to the resort.

In Africa, you will be on the move .

Whether public or private transport, flights or local buses, all that moving means things will spill, and your safari luggage is going to get dirty .

There are usually two options when it comes to what to wear on holiday. Change your clothes every day, or change your destination every day instead.

As you regularly move between destinations, you won’t need lots of luggage . And don’t worry if your clothes are a little sweaty or dust-stained. You will look more out of place in incredibly clean clothes.

It’s going to be hot, probably very hot. You will be battling against humidity. If it’s the rainy season, you and your luggage will get drenched.

These can be tough conditions, so the fundamental principle of all safari luggage is to make it easier for yourself .

In addition to knowing what the best bags for exploring in the wild are, here is how to choose safari luggage . These are sure to make your African adventure easier and packing less challenging.

1. You need quality luggage for safari (but not designer or expensive)

The eternal conundrum is whether to head for an exclusive luggage shop or select the cheapest , most rubbish piece of safari baggage available at a local supermarket.

Airline baggage controllers do not distinguish between designer labels and care not for price tags. Your bags get completely stuffed up, whether you paid a small fortune or got them in the bargain bin.

Your bag will be treated like a bag of potatoes by the majority of the people who handle it, from baggage controllers to local bus boys squashing your carefully labeled luggage next to some chickens and maize sacks.

Be warned – fragile stickers don’t work , especially not when you are on safari.

Spending hundreds or thousands on Louis Vuitton’s finest or the very latest Antler miracle is not a wise thing. And the cheapest safari luggage won’t live up to the demands of traveling in Africa.

So go for a good , middle-of-the-road bag – the “iSpot” duffel bag range from Travelite is a recommended choice. They are durable and inexpensive.

iSpots are soft , relatively light, and have a built-in wheely handle so you can pull them along the road and runway when necessary.

iSpots have concealed zips , which all have locking facilities on them (so many lightweight safari bags only have locking docks on their main zips and not on side pockets).

They are hard-wearing , rugged , and spacious enough for two-week trips in Africa. The seams won’t rip and dispose of half your belongings onto a buffalo -covered savanna.

2. Safari travel bags should be soft

In Africa, there is plenty of space for elephants to charge around. But there is not enough space for luggage.

Keeping your weight below 15 kg is important. Your safari luggage needs to mold and squeeze into any available space.

Solid-state suitcases may be good for European city trips, but they are completely impractical for Africa .

These massive, stainless steel megalodons are too bulky, do not stack neatly, and take up too much unnecessary room.

African safaris require soft , squishy bags that can squeeze into small spaces. As previously mentioned, duffel bags are perfect for this.

Backpacks are also a good choice, provided they don’t have a protruding and inflexible frame.

So let’s recap. The perfect safari luggage is light , squishy , hard-wearing , rugged enough for the dusty African savanna , and spacious enough for the safari essentials.

3. Reduce the volume of your safari bag

That aside, you should also take the volume of your bag into account. A 70-liter capacity is around average.

There are some excellent duffels out there , especially those designed for diving or adventure pursuits, which offer more space.

Coming in at $14.95, you get what you pay for with a duffel bag like this. It may last one trip if you are lucky!

But remember that a tightly packed soft bag is better than a loosely packed one because it keeps your belongings from rolling around and getting damaged.

It also prevents your cosmetics bag from getting a bang and leaking its contents all over your clothes.

Some duffel bags have straps that can compress the contents inside. These are ideal, as you can start light and still compress. Then you can expand it if you end up purchasing half a bag of souvenirs.

4. Other key considerations for the best luggage for safari travel

A wet bag is a great idea for cosmetics. Don’t buy an expensive one. You can use a run-of-the-mill high-street supermarket bag and tie the handles up tight to prevent unwanted spillages.

Consider decanting things like shampoo and moisturizer into small containers, or buy them in small bottles, to begin with.

The Body Shop , for example, has some great small bottles of products that are ideal for traveling. This reduces volume.

Your choice of safari luggage is peculiar to you and your needs , what you want to put in it and where you are going.

Whether you spend a lot of money on it or not, just make sure that it is secure with decent locks or, failing that, cable ties.

When flying, never put anything of value in it (jewelry, cameras, computers, cell phones, etc.).

And if it gets damaged by an airline’s baggage handler, make sure you stand up for your rights and get it either repaired or replaced.

Where to Take Your Safari Luggage

Having the right safari luggage can make or break your trip. But with this guide, you now know what to take and how to take it. So all that’s left is to go out and explore !

There are endless opportunities for a wild adventure in different locations – South Africa , Botswana , Namibia , Zambia , Zimbabwe , Tanzania , Kenya , Uganda , and gorilla trekking in Rwanda .

Hopefully, your safari luggage will keep you returning to Africa and experience as many incredible safaris as possible.

About The Author

Editorial Team

Related posts.

African safari packing list – What to bring on a trip to Africa

Best safari clothing: brands, clothes & tips for African safaris

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The Best Safari Luggage

By Mara Balagtas and Lale Arikoglu

Choosing the right luggage for a safari can make or break the trip: One day, you might be rumbling along Botswana’s lush delta with nothing to protect your camera, and the next, you're boarding a tiny domestic aircraft that prohibits all suitcases with wheels. You'll need to pack light to adhere to strict weight limits, but still invest in something that can hold enough layers for warm days and cool nights, as well as a bag to hold all your gear while actually out on a game drive. Here, our picks of the best luggage to take on safari—from camera bags and dopp kits to backpacks and duffels.

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

A backpack is going to be your best friend when you're out on a game drive all day. Choose one with plenty of pockets and compartments to hold everything from a change of clothes, to camera batteries, to sunscreen, and if you can, go for a roll top version that can be stashed away in your larger duffle when you don't need it.

Tumi Alpha Bravo Tyndall backpack ($495, saksfifthavenue.com ); Hobo River backpack ($298, hobobags.com ); Marni backpack ($1,090, eastdane.com ); Fjallraven Split Pack weekender bag ($175, backcountry.cocom ); Oakley roll top backpack ($93, amazon.com ); Herschel Supply Co. Heritage backpack ($65, herschel.com ).

Classic Duffel Bags

"You're usually on rough terrain once outside of the international airport, so wheels are not that helpful on safari," says West Coast editor Rebecca Misner. And given that most safari camps are only accessible by small propeller planes, hard-sided luggage is a no-go. Instead, invest in a soft-sided duffle that's roomy enough to hold everything you need for the week, but still meets all the requirements of your jumper plane.

Paravel Grand Tour ($365, tourparavel.com ); Anya Hindmarch Bespoke Walton suitcase ($1,550, anyahindmarch.com ); Wool & Oak Duffel Suitcase ($425, woolandoak.com ); Hobo Zeppelin Duffel ($598, hobobags.com ); Filson Large Rugged Twill duffel bag ($425, filson.com ); Ghurka Cavalier canvas duffel bag ($1,295, ghurka.com ).

While you still need all your beauty essentials (there's cocktail hour back at camp, after all), you don't want a dopp kit that takes up too much space. Opt for a soft one that can be squeezed easily down the side of a bag.

Prada cosmetic pouch ($525, prada.com ); Hobo cosmetic pouch ($78, hobobags.com ); Dolce & Gabbana Necessaire nylon case ($415, us.dolcegabbana.com ); Louis Vuitton Toiletry Bag 25 ($745, us.louisvuitton.com ); Bottega Veneta Intrecciato beauty case ($580, bottegaveneta.com ); Filson wash bag ($125, filson.com ).

Technical Duffel Bags

On safari, you never know what the day will bring. Find a bag that has a water-repellant shell and detachable straps that allow you to sling it over your shoulder—or even transform it into a backpack—at a moment's notice.

Patagonia duffel ($129, patagonia.com ); Best Made Co. SWS 100L roll top duffle ($198, bestmadeco.com ); Herschel Supply Co. Outfitter luggage ($140, herschel.com ); Cotopaxi Chumpi travel duffel ($110, cotopaxi.com ); Burton Backhill duffel ($109, amazon.com ); Eastpak Perce duffel ($77, selfridges.com ).

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Hannah Towey

Fanny Packs

Given that you've traveled thousands of miles to catch a glimpse of wildlife roaming free, you'll want your hands free to grab your camera at any given moment. Luckily, fanny packs are in vogue again—perfect for holding all your essentials.

VereVerto Convertible Mini Mox bag ($295, shopbop.com ); Patagonia Ultralight hip pack ($29, patagonia.com ); Clare V. belt bag ($345, nordstrom.com ); Marc Jacobs belt bag ($315, marcjacobs.com ); Paravel belt bag ($35, tourparavel.com ); Herschel Supply Co. 17 hip pack ($45, herschel.com ).

Camera Bags

You'll want a compact, sturdy bag to protect that new camera you splurged on. We love the Palma camera bag from ONA, which comes with a handy compartment to store your spare memory cards or lenses in.

Madewell camera cross body bag ($128, madewell.com ); Lo & Sons Claremont leather camera bag ($368, loandsons.com ); Ganni tech bag ($135, ganni.com ); Yeezy Season 6 crossbody bag ($119, endclothing.com ); ONA The Palma camera bag ($329, amazon.com ); Tumi Luanda Flight bag ($295, tumi.com ).

15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure

Traveling on safari brings with it countless obstacles and situations that you need to be prepared for and having the right safari bags with you can help you to be ready, and to best enjoy your trip.

Safaris in Africa, Asia, or anywhere else in the world where you may choose to head off into the wilderness in search of wildlife, will ensure that you are encountering extreme weather conditions, be it rain, dust, mud, heat and cold, potentially all within the same day, so it’s imperative to choose safari bags that are able to withstand the worst that will be thrown at them.

There’s a lot more to reflect on too, and you’ll need to consider your style of travel, be it luxury safaris or budget safaris, expeditions, overland travel or charter plane flights.

Luckily, there are a lot of great safari bags out there to meet almost any requirements, and to help you decide what exactly you need, here’s our guide to buying the best products on the market.

Top 5 Best Safari Bags

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: Best Safari Bags

• Best OverAll Safari Bag: North Face Base Camp Duffel
• Best Budget Safari Bag: Osprey Packs Trilium 65 Duffel Bag
• Best Safari Bag for Women: Osprey Packs Fairview 70 Women’s Travel Backpack
• Best Safari Bag for Men: Osprey Packs Farpoint 70 Men’s Travel Backpack
• Best Woman’s Safari Bag for Hiking: Osprey Fairview 40  
• Best Men’s Safari Bag for Hiking: Osprey Farpoint 40
• Best Safari Duffel Bag: North Face Base Camp Duffel
• Best Safari Duffel/Backpack Bag: RAB Expedition Kitbag 80L Duffel Bag Blue 80L
• Best Safari Day Bag: Osprey Porter 46  
• Best Malti-Day Safari Bag: Osprey Packs Farpoint 70 Travel Backpack 
• Best Wheeled Safari Bag: Eddie Bauer Unisex-Adult Expedition Drop-Bottom Rolling Duffel
• Best Lightweight Safari Bag: Gonex 80L Packable Travel Duffle Bag
• Best Waterproof/Dustproof Safari Bag: North Face Base Camp Duffel
• Best Leather Safari Bag:   Komal’s Passion Leather 24 Inch Square Duffel Travel Safari Leather Bag
• Best Canvas Safari Bag:   Filson Medium Duffle – Waxed canvas
• Best Soft Side Safari Bag: Mountain Warehouse 90 Cargo Bag – 3 Ways to Carry All-Season Backpack Black
• Best Packable Safari Bag: Gonex 80L Packable Travel Duffle Bag

What Type of Safari are You going on?

The first thing to think about when you begin delving into the vast world of safari bags is what type of safari you are actually going to be going on. Different types of bags will be more suited for different types of safari, and the season you will be traveling.

If you are traveling across Africa in the rainy season, you will want to make waterproofing a priority. If you are a wildlife photographer and have a lot of equipment, you will want to ensure that your safari bags will provide adequate protection against dust and the elements.

Luxury travelers may want to ensure they have a fashionable yet durable bag that looks the part at their remote bush camp, while backpackers opting for cheaper safaris may want to have a more practical hiking or duffel bag to cope with the stress of long-distance, overland travel.

Practicality vs Style

Practicality vs style then is another important consideration to make. There are a lot of classic, leather-bound carry bags on the market that wouldn’t look out of place in the late Victorian era, and while they might look stylish, you might want to determine if it is the best fit for you.

Some of the most practical bags, however, won’t look the most stylish, but you can find some quality safari bags produced by outdoor companies as kit bags, that are suitable for almost anything.

Colour and aesthetics, while they may seem trivial, can be an important part of the buying process. Many bags that are specifically aimed at safari-goers may be brown, beige or green in color, to almost blend in with the classic safari environment.

Some travelers though, find it is more practical to have a brightly colored bag that they can actually find quickly amongst piles of other luggage when traveling by bus or plane.

Size Considerations

The size of your chosen safari bags will come down to a number of factors, but the most important thing to note is that your luggage needs to be suitable for air travel.

Likely, you will arrive at your destination via air, and if you are planning on visiting remote, luxury camps in the African savannah, then getting there will generally involve flying in small, charter aircraft that are very restricted by weight and size requirements.

Don’t overpack, and make sure your luggage fits the airline requirements. If you travel light and hand luggage only, then ensure your backpack or duffel is in line with ever-changing airline restrictions.

If you are planning on traveling overland as part of your safari, or are planning it as part of a wider trip, then you may want to choose a bag that is easy to carry around, that can fit in luggage compartments, or that you can easily walk around with.

Again, the size will depend on your individual requirements, but just remember, when you are on safari, it’s always best to pack light.

Material and Durability

The material that your safari bags are constructed from can make the difference between a terrible bag and a bag that will last you a lifetime of traveling.

You may want to invest in a waterproof bag , or at the very least be able to attach a rain cover to the outside, particularly if it is a backpack that you might be walking around with.

Luxury travelers may want to invest in specialized leather or canvas bags that not only look the part at your safari lodge in the wilderness but that will also be water-resistant and durable.

In the long run, unless this is a one-off trip, you will be better off investing money into quality products that will last. You don’t want your bag falling apart mid-flight, or on the taxi ride out of the airport, after all, you want it to last a lifetime.

Bag straps are another important aspect that you don’t want to overlook. If you are just traveling from one point to the next then you might be fine with just a holdall that you can pick up with one handle.

If you are hiking, backpacking or walking around a lot, then you’ll want to make sure your safari bags have adequate support, be it comfortable back straps, or even waist or chest straps to take the weight off your shoulders.

Many kit bags now come with a versatile number of straps, allowing you to instantly transform your handheld duffel bag into a backpack or a single strap, shoulder-worn bag.

You will also want to look at the number of pockets and different compartments that your bag has. If you purchase a basic duffel or kit bag, then the number of compartments is usually restricted to one open space, which can be fine if you aren’t too fussy.

If you want to separate your dirty laundry and your wet towels from your fresh, clean clothes, then this isn’t going to be an ideal situation.

As well as separate compartments you may also want safari bags that allow you space and different pockets for being organized. For instance, you may want pockets for toiletries, for your chargers and batteries, for your passport, or for your socks. The opportunities are quite endless really.

Best Types of Safari Bags and Product Recommendations

There is a great selection of safari bags out on the market right now, catering to all budgets, styles, designs, and needs. Here are a few of the most versatile types of bags to think about selecting for your trip, and a few specific product recommendations too.

Duffel Bags

Duffel bags and kit bags are great all-rounders that are perfect for the frugal traveler on a budget , making multiple, and varied trips each year. Modern kit bags can be incredibly versatile, with waterproofing, different outside straps that can be arranged to carry the bag how you feel is best or most appropriate for the situation, and a high level of resilience. 

Some of the best are made by outdoor companies and can come in many different capacities, from 40 liters up to 120 liters. The North Face makes excellent, quality, and great value kit bags, as do Rab , Mountain Warehouse and increasingly, many more well known outdoor brands too.

The Top Five Best Safari Duffel Bags:

• North Face Base Camp Duffel
• RAB Expedition Kitbag 80L Duffel Bag Blue 80L
• Mountain Warehouse 90 Cargo Bag – 3 Ways to Carry All-Season Backpack Black
• Osprey Packs Transporter 65 Expedition Duffel/Backpack
• Osprey Packs Trilium 65 Duffel Bag

Hiking Bags

Hiking bags are another fantastic, versatile choice that has long been the favored luggage-style of backpackers across the world. They can make for perfect safari bags, particularly if you are planning on hiking, or have an extended trip that will also take you on other adventures too.

Hiking bags come in many different sizes, with large capacities suitable for remote expeditions and small capacities which can make for perfect day hiking bags and carry-ons when flying.

Hiking bags have the added bonus of being designed for the outdoors, and if you pick a quality brand, you can also get lifetime warranties on your kit.

Osprey is a favorite amongst travelers, and they offer not only excellent hiking bags but also hybrid bags that cater to backpackers. Great examples are the Osprey Farpoint or the Osprey Transporter .

While you can get incredibly cheap hiking bags from sports outlets, it’s also best to invest in a quality product, with guarantees and reputation if you want it to last.

The Best Safari Hiking Bags:

• Osprey Farpoint 40  –  Men’s Best Safari Bag For Hiking
• Osprey Fairview 40  –  Women’s Best Safari Bag For Hiking
• Osprey Porter 46

Vintage Bags

Some of the most popular safari bags amongst luxury travelers or short terms holidaymakers are vintage bags. Not only do they look the part, but the best ones are made of quality leather or canvas, that is rugged, durable and able to stand up to the harsh requirements of the savannah while also looking great in the city.

Classic style safari bags are not for everyone, however, and they will be limited as to the variety and diversity of travel situations that they are handy in, but if you want a fashionable way to carry your luggage, then these are the bags for your safari.

Great vintage options include the excellent leather duffel bag by Komal , which retails at an incredibly affordable price, upwards to the canvas, bespoke designs from the likes of Ralph Lauren.

The Top Five Best Safari Vintage Bags:

• Travel Duffel Bag Waterproof Canvas or Leather  
• Filson Medium Duffle – Waxed canvas
• DRAKENSBERG Kimberley Long Weekender, canvas, buffalo leather
• Komal’s Passion Leather 24 Inch Square Duffel Travel Safari Leather Bag
• Komal’s Passion Leather 24 Inch Duffel Travel Gym Sports Overnight Weekend Leather Bag

Other Safari Items We Can Not Live Without?

Camera Gear: 

• Canon 6d DSLR Body
• Canon 100-400mm L Lens
• Canon ET-83C Lens Hood
• Canon 2x Extender
• OptiTech Sling Comfort Strap
• Rain Cover Coat Dust Proof Camera Protector (THIS IS A MUST)

Camera Bag:   Vanguard Alta Sky 45D .

Monopod: VEO2 AM-234 or the VEO CM-264 Carbon Fiber

Binoculars: Nikon Monarch 7   ( If you want to be able to spot and identify wildlife and birds then a good pair of safari binoculars are a must-have.)

• Cell Phone Binocular Adapter Mount (So you can take photos through your binoculars)

Safari Hat:  Panama Jack Men’s Mesh Safari Hat 

• Woman’s Safari Packable Khaki Summer Hat

Buff Headwear: BUFF Unisex Lightweight Merino Wool, Forest Night or  BUFF Unisex UV Multifunctional Headwear

Travel Insurance: Things can happen before your safari, while on your safari and after your safari while traveling home. Why not be protected with Travel Insurance? We have used Allianz Travel Insurance since our first trip together back in 2003. Simply use this link to get their travel insurance.

Not finding what you are looking for? Check out our favorite places to go shopping for travel gear.

• Shop Columbia – The industry leader in outdoor apparel and products; You can find anything from great jackets, gloves, hats, shirts, and travel pants.
• Shop REI – They offer some of the best outdoor gear around. We love REI since they have a year Love it or hate it no questions guarantee.
• Shop Moosejaw – Has a huge selection of outdoor gear at killer prices.

More on Travel Gear:

• 85 Best Travel Gifts for Travelers
• Best Sleeping Bag for Cold Weather – From Africa to Greenland
• Best Sleeping Bag Liners
• Best Drones For Travel From A Real Drone User
• Ultimate Travel Photography Gear List 
• Photography Gear Every Adventure Traveler Should Carry
• The Best GoPro Accessories for Adventure Travel
• 30 Best Travel Movies that Inspire Travel
• Best Travel Rain Jacket to Stay Dry on the Go
• A Man’s Travel Clothing Essential- Bluff Works Pants
• How To Wear A Buff Headwear – It’s Easy!
• Best Hiking Backpack for your Next Adventure
• Best Compact Binoculars for Outdoors & Travel
• Best Carry on Backpacks for Travel

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

2 thoughts on “15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure”

Very informative article and i get to know about types of safari bags. Thanks for sharing.

Glad you found it useful, good luck in your search for a new bag!

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Best Duffle Bag & Luggage for African Safari Travel in 2022

Choosing what type of bag to take on your safari can depend on where you are going, what you are doing ( climbing Kilimanjaro or flying in small bush planes) and how long you are staying. Different regions have different luggage requirements and restrictions depending on what type of air transport is being used. Recently rolling duffel bags with a hard bottom frame and wheels have become quite popular. Now while this sort of bag is fine for many safaris, it won’t work on most safaris in Botswana and Zambia where the hard frame and wheels can’t be squeezed into the tiny luggage compartment in the belly of the Cessna. A traditional duffel bag or a completely soft-sided bag with wheels is appropriate in these situations (see the Swissgear bag below).

As frequent travelers to Africa, we’re sharing some of our favorite safari bags below. All of these bags qualify as carry-ons and are about the right size for keeping within the strict weight limits of most small plane flights in Africa (33 or 44 pounds per person and a maximum size of 10 inches wide, 12 inches high and 24 inches long).

For more packing recommendations, view our Safari Packing List and our Amazon Store .

Herschel Novel Duffel Bag & Herschel Supply Co. Sutton Mini

Herschel bags are favorites of our Journey Specialists. The Mini is a nice pick for travelers comfortable traveling very light, as it’s only 12.5″ wide. The Classic duffel is 20.5″ wide and holds 42.5L. The Classic duffle also has a removable padded shoulder strap, though you won’t be carrying your own bag while on safari. The Mini currently sells for $65 and the Classic is $90.

Eagle Creek Medium

Eagle Creek is another staff favorite and one of our most affordable picks, as it currently sells for $80. The medium bag is made of bi-tech fabric, making it extra durable and water-resistant, but only weighs 30 oz. There is also an extra storage pouch that you can use as an internal packing pocket for items you’d like to keep separate.

Swissgear Large Lightweight Rolling Duffel

For those looking for a wheeled duffel bag, we recommend the Swissgear Large Lightweight Rolling Duffel . Kent has bought many of these over the years for his family and himself and takes one every time he goes to Africa. This is a true rolling duffel in that it can be packed down – there’s no frame so this bag is ideal for flying safaris in Southern Africa. This bag is 24 inches wide, but the wheels and handle do add weight compared to the lighter weight duffel options above. This bag is 6.3 pounds empty, which will take away from packing weight for safaris that have luggage weight restrictions. It currently sells for $188.

Filson Medium 25″ Duffle Bag

Our top pick for a higher-end duffle is the Filson Medium 25″ Duffle Bag . This high quality bag is constructed with water resistant rugged twill and durable bridle leather. It also has two interior pockets and a removable shoulder strap. It’s currently priced at $380.

Be sure to check with your Journey Specialist about specific requirements for your safari before purchasing your bag. Also, check out our packing list so you know you’re not overpacking or forgetting something!

Want to See Our Safari Packing List?

Updated March 2022

All products featured are independently selected by the Africa Adventure Consultants team. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

• Travel Tips

Best Luggage for an African Safari 2024: Top 11 Bags and Backpacks Reviewed

By Deb Hendricks | August 9, 2022 | Updated February 12, 2024

Are you looking for the best safari luggage for your trip?

That’s what we’ve got for you here. I’ve been through a lot of bags on my many trips to Africa. This list includes what I’ve found to be THE best luggage for safari .

These bags check all the boxes. They’re roomy enough for all your gear, aren’t too heavy empty, and are comfortable to get around with. And they’re sturdy enough to withstand the rigours of a long camping safari.

No time to read the whole article? Here’s the best of the best bag for your safari ⤵️

✔️ Cotopaxi Uyuni 46L Duffel

⭐️ RATED: 5 out of 5 with over 50 reviews

• At 46L, the perfect carry-on size for long or short trips
• Light at 1.5 lbs / 0.7 kg
• 5 external handles and stowable shoulder strap
• Guaranteed for Good™️

Plus, safaris companies do have rules when it comes to luggage. The bag you choose can have a big impact on your trip.

Below you’ll find my all-time favourite types of bags, and what makes them my favourites. I’ve narrowed it down to only the best of the best bags for safari. These will work whether you’re heading to South Africa, East Africa, Botswana, or any other of the incredible safari destinations in Africa.

When it comes to what luggage to take on safari, I recommend a lightweight, good-quality nylon duffel bag . I prefer these over leather or canvas simply because nylon tends to be lighter.

But, I’ve included the best leather and canvas options as well. The choice is yours!

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The Best Safari Travel Bags

Here is the best of the best luggage for travel to Africa. They’re all soft-sided and lightweight, without any unnecessary extras that take up room in the bag or add weight.

BEST SAFARI DUFFEL BAG

Size: 22″ x 11″ x 10″ Weight: 1.5 lbs / 0.7 kg

➤ Cotopaxi Uyuni 46L Duffel

This is a great , lightweight bag, made with durable, double-ripstop nylon. It’s the best duffel bag for safari.

It has some really useful features :

• a padded laptop sleeve with external access.
• top side pocket and collapsible laundry pocket.
• 5 external handles, stowable shoulder strap
• fits well when worn with the shoulder strap crossbody, and the bag diagonal across your back; good for carrying longer distances

✔️ Find the Cotopaxi Uyuni 46L Duffel on Amazon

Size: 21 x 14 x 9 inches Weight: 1.4 lbs / 0.63 kg

➤ Osprey Daylight Duffel

⭐️ RATED: 4.6 out of 5 with over 50 reviews

This duffel has everything you should be looking for in the best bag for safari travel. The wide opening is perfect for managing your items, making it easy to find what you’re looking for.

The hand grips also act as a shoulder strap and as backpack straps

More great features :

• there’s a zippered pocket on one end.
• long zippered pocket down one side.
• has a small, easy-access external pocket
• made of 300D packcloth
• The single compartment makes it easy to arrange your things according to your own system.
• the bag is covered by Osprey’s “ All Mighty Guarantee “

🧳 Find the Osprey Daylight Duffel price ➤

Size: 23″ x 13″ x 11″ Weight: 4.2 lbs / 1.9 kg

➤ The Drakensberg Weekender (L)

If you’re set on the idea of a traditional canvas safari bag, this is a great option. While it’s not quite as squishable, it’s not much heavier than some of the nylon bags.

Here are a few of its features:

• a roomy 60L. May not be carry-on-able if packed too full.
• the durable canvas is 100% cotton with leather trim.
• has a padded bottom and internal pocket.

✔️ Find the Weekender on Amazon

Size: 21″ x 11″ x 10″ Weight: 4.5 lbs / 2.0 kg

➤ Cenzo Vecchio Italian Leather Travel Bag

If you love the thought of a decadent, high-quality leather bag, then this is the perfect safari bag for you.

Here’s what you get:

• full-grain calf-skin leather
• durable, tear proof, stain resistant beige canvas lining
• inside zippered pocket.
• floor-to-floor zipper
• hand grips and detachable shoulder strap.
• brass zipper and hardware

✔️ Find the Cenzo Vecchio Travel Bag on Amazon

Size: 22″ x 12.5″ x 9″ Weight: 1.8 lbs/ 0.822 kg

➤ Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler (S)

⭐️ RATED: 4.5 out of 5 with over 545 reviews

This bag is a roomy 40L, and also comes in 60L and 90L, in case you have a lot of gear.

Here are its main features :

• it’s incredibly durable, made of abrasion-resistant and water-repellant material.
• folds into itself for storage.
• has tuck-way backpack straps, side strap, side and top handles
• U-zip provides full access
• has an easy-access end compartment and external side pocket.
• equipped with a detachable inside mesh divider
• comes with the amazing No Matter What™ Lifetime Warranty.

✔️ Find the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler (S) on Amazon

Size: 21.6″ x 12″ x 8.6″ Weight: 0.9 lb / 0.4 kg

➤ G4Free Travel Duffel

⭐️ RATED: 4.5 out of 5 with over 1,600 reviews

If your budget is straining at the seams, this duffel is a good, affordable option. I’ve used a similar bag, and it worked just fine for several months.

With this bag you get:

• hand grips and a detachable shoulder strap.
• one long zipper along the top of the main compartment.
• front pockets that can hold your passport and boarding pass.
• external pouches on either end for snacks and reusable water bottle.
• the option to fold it up into a small packet. This also makes it a good option if you want to tuck a spare bag in your main one if you’re a big souvenir shopper.
• the same capacity as the more expensive bags.

However, with a lower-quality bag, even one that’s fairly sturdy and well-made like this one, you take a chance on tears and broken zippers. Be sure to pack some duct tape , just in case.

✔️ Find the G4Free Duffel on Amazon

Size: 22″ x 14″ x 9″ Weight : 3.4 lb / 1.54 kg

➤ Osprey Transporter Carry-On

⭐️ RATED: 4.4 out of 5 with 20 reviews

This 44L bag has a long shoulder strap and hand grips, as well as stow-away backpack straps. It’s a great choice for short hauls as a backpack.

However, the padding is thin in the backpack straps, so don’t plan to use it as a long-haul backpack. Remember, the straps add a bit of bulk.

This bag also features:

• 1/3, 2/3 clam shell opening.
• two zippered mesh interior pockets, plus an external zippered access pocket for your 1L bag of liquid products.
• the same durable, weather-resistant, rubbery fabric as the Global Carry-on above.
• front panel organizing pocket.
• internal zippered compartments and compression straps.
• limited lifetime warranty

✔️ Find the Transporter on Amazon

Size: 22″ x 14″ x 11″ Weight : 4.2 lb / 1.9 kg

➤ Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

⭐️ RATED: 4.6 out of 5 with over 90 reviews

Lightweight, much sturdier than it looks, and very roomy. Every bag is different, and the colours make it easy to pick out of a pile. The hip belt is adjustable for different torso sizes , so you get a more comfortable fit.

You also get:

• clam shell opening with zippered mesh dividers
• padded laptop and tablet sleeve
• rain cover included, but quite waterproof on its own
• exterior water bottle pocket
• the company donates 1% of sales to non-profits, to support a healthier planet
• also available in a 35L size

** A bit smaller at 35L, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack has the same look and the same great features. PLUS it has an added upgrade – the waist belt is now detachable for those times when it just isn’t necessary.

✔️ Find the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L and the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L on Amazon

Size: approx. 27″ x 13″ x11″ Weight: 3lb 9 oz

➤ Gregory Stout 45 Plus Backpack

⭐️ RATED: 4.5 out of 5 with 2 reviews

Discount mysteriously disappeared from Amazon

If you’re planning to backpack through Africa, you’ll be spending a lot of time with your pack on your back.

If that’s the case, then your best backpack for safari is going to be one that was made to be worn that way.

This one has:

• adjustable and breathable, important in hot climates
• sternum strap, 2 zippered hip belt pockets
• bottom compression strap
• integrated rain cover

The downside is that it’s top loading, which is enormously inconvenient to pack. Even with bottom access as well, it’s a hassle to pack and unpack.

It’s also a bit oo long to use as a carry-on if it’s packed full.

For those reasons, I only recommend a pack like this if you really need it. But, if you are wearing it for long distances, you’ll be really glad to have a comfortable backpack.

✔️ Find the price of the Gregory Stout 45 Plus Backpack on Amazon

Size: approx. 16″ x 11″ x7″ Weight: 7 oz

➤ sinotron 22L Backpack

⭐️ RATED: 4.6 out of 5 with 1308 reviews

Aside from your main bag for safari, you’ll need a daypack to take out on games drive or bush walk.

As well, if you’re travelling throughout Africa, you’ll need a bag to take on your daily adventures.

You’ll want to take your reusable water bottle with you, sun protection, a jacket if the mornings are cool, and maybe your extra camera batteries, for example.

This daypack is perfect:

• it has wide, comfortable straps
• contains a sleeve for an optional water bladder
• it’s extremely water-resistant
• has external side pockets for your water bottle
• a large packet on the outside that clips shut
• there is an internal zip pocket

This one is 22L, and can be used as a shopping bag, too, if you’ll be spending any time in towns and cities.

A light tote bag is great, too. I prefer a backpack for ease of carrying on bush walks, though.

✔️ Find the sinotron 22L Backpack on Amazon

🇨🇦 Luggage and Gear for Canadian Travellers ⇩

Hiking Backpack 40L

This is a great pack to wear long distances. At 40L and 26″x12″x10″, it can fit carry-on guidelines if the top is not stuffed full (21.5″). It also comes in a larger size if you’re taller. Has multiple compartments and a side zip.

Gadgets and Gear

Here is a site with camping gear that is great for travelling in Africa. Find headlamps, tents, battery-powered lanterns, travel pillows, luggage scales , and more. Their autumn sale is a great time to gear up.

7 Most Important Rules for Choosing the Best Safari Luggage

There are a few rules when it comes to choosing the best bag for travelling to Africa. The most important requirements for your bag should be:

➥ It meets Luggage Restrictions ➥ Soft sided ➥ Lightweight ➥ Comfortable to Carry ➥ WithOUT wheels ➥ Carry-on size ➥ Prepare for a walking safari

1. Consider Safari Luggage Restrictions

Safari luggage restrictions are a serious consideration when you’re deciding on a bag. For example, if you’ll be flying into a safari camp on a bush plane, there are often strict weight limits .

You may be permitted no more than a 33 lb bag, though some companies allow up to 44 lbs. These rules can be very strictly enforced. Safari luggage size can be an issue as well.

Be careful to always double-check with your tour operator before you leave home to be sure.

Even if you won’t be travelling on small planes , safari vehicles have limited space. They may have rules, too, against rigid frames or wheels on your luggage. Again, always consult with your tour company to avoid hassle later.

2. It Should be Soft-sided

Soft luggage for safari is always the way to go. There will be limited vehicle space for a group’s bags. As the best luggage for safari travel, duffel bags can be thrown in with everybody else’s without worry.

As well, soft-sided luggage fits together better and take up less space . This is true on the plane as well. A soft bag is easier to fit in the overhead and under the seat in front of you.

*Remember that hard-sided bags and trolley bags aren’t allowed on many of the small planes used on fly-in safaris. Check with your tour company .

3. Lightweight but Sturdy

The less your bag weighs when it’s empty , the more you can pack it with and remain within the weight limit.

When I’m choosing my bag, I steer away from heavy canvas, and especially leather bags. The extra weight just isn’t worth it , no matter how good it looks.

The airline or your safari company will have weight limits that you need to consider. But also remember that you need to be able to comfortably lift and carry your bag .

For this reason, I don’t always recommend tools like compression bags. Just because you can fit more into your bag, doesn’t mean that you should.

And remember, you do tend to get what you pay for . It’s great to find in cheap back that looks like it fits the bill, but a broken zipper or split seam can throw a pretty big wrench into your trip.

Your bag will be tossed around, mashed under other bags, potentially exposed to weather – it needs to be tough.

Look for sales, shop around, but ultimately go for quality over price. The Eagle Creek bag above is a good middle-of-the-road choice.

4. Comfortable to Carry

– Whether you decide on a duffel with just a shoulder strap and hand grips, a standard backpack, or a combination of the two, try it out . Fill it up and walk around.

One fixable issue you might find is a duffel with a shoulder strap that cuts into your shoulder a bit . This can be a problem especially if you’re going with a budget bag. A seatbelt cover like this is an easy fix that I’ve used, and it helps a lot.

5. No Wheels

Wheeled bags were a genius invention, and are a gift to travellers in a lot of situations. Safari isn’t one of them .

Safaris often involve travelling in small bush planes. Wheeled bags, as well as hard-sided ones, generally are NOT allowed on board.

They’ll also get in the way when any safari vehicle gets packed up. Sometimes they aren’t even allowed on safari trucks, due to the limited space. Go for squishable when you can.

The wheels decrease the available room in the bag and add weight to it, too .

If you’ll have a long walk through the airport, get a cart . Otherwise, you’ve tried the bag and determined that you can comfortably carry it ( see #3 above ), so you’re all set.

6. Carry-on Size

– The general size for an international carry-on is 9″ x 14″ x 22″ and 40 lb (18 kg), or 45L. But each airline is a bit different , and things do change. So always check your airline’s website before you decide on your bag.

If your safari plans do include a small aircraft, there is usually a tight safari luggage size/weight restriction . There are rarely exceptions to these restrictions. A luggage scale is always a good idea.

In short, the size duffel bag for safari I recommend is the largest that still fits within my airline’s carry-on limits.

7. Prepare for a Walking Safari or Bushwalk

Chances are good that, aside from epic game drives, you get to go on walking safaris. These are also known as bushwalks.

You’re going to need to take a few things with you – sun protection and water, for example. And to carry them, a comfortable, roomy day pack is perfect. A lightweight, packable one will come in handy many times during your trip.

Packing Tips

First things first – the best luggage for an African safari is a single carry-on bag . This is always my first recommendation.

Keep in mind that when I travel to Africa, I go for no less than a month, and usually more than one. It really is possible to take everything you need in one bag .

Unless you’re staying in one place for your entire trip – and really, even if you are – having just one bag to worry about makes life i nfinitely easier.

As well, having your bag with you on your flight is a big stress reliever . It happens anytime I’ve watched my own luggage disappear into the cargo hold of a plane. I feel like I’m holding my breath until I see it again at my destination.

And of course, there have been times when I didn’t see it at my destination. At least, not until I was leaving again. That can put a serious damper on your trip.

For those reasons, the bags above are all carry-on-sized . They’re all about the same size as the one that I’ve travelled through Africa with for 6 months at a stretch. On safari and just exploring.

Trust me, it’s very possible ! If you need help getting there, we have some epic packing advice, and a complete packing list for you.

What to Clothes to Wear on Safari

When you’re deciding on your safari packing list , there are a few things you need to think about:

• Pack safari clothing that will help you stay comfortable in the heat. Mornings can be cool, though, so be sure to bring the appropriate clothes.
• Browse these quick packing lists to find out the best things to pack for the weather.
• If you’re not sure what to expect weather-wise during your trip, find out when and where to expect cooler weather.

It’s also important to consider the colour of your clothes. It’s more important than you might think:

• Camouflage and military-style clothing are frowned on in Africa. It is even illegal for everyone except members of the military in some countries. Best leave it at home.
• Plain khaki colours are best. They allow you to blend in when on a game drive or bushwalk, so you can watch the animals unnoticed.
• Dark colours like black, navy, and red will attract mosquitoes and tsetse flies. Tsetse flies, which can transmit African sleeping sickness, are also attracted by metallics and bright colours. Again, khaki is a good choice.

How to Pack for an Africa Safari: The Essentials

• malaria meds
• insect repellent   with   DEET
• toothbrush & toiletries
• small  towel
• hair clips, ties, razor
• wide-brimmed  hat  with strap/ clip
• sunglasses and cord/ chums
• camera /extra batteries & SD card
• downloaded  travel
• flashlight  &  headlamp
• charging cables
• power  adapter
• laundry sheets
• foldable  daypack
• filtered water  bottle
• downloaded  map app
• period products
• clothes that cover shoulder/knees
• toilet paper
• 4 short-sleeved shirts
• 2 light, loose, linen-y pants
• 5 pairs underwear
• 1 pair closed-toed shoes
• 5 pairs socks
• 1 pair flip-flops
• 2 pairs of light pyjamas
• thin scarf /bandana to soak, & wear on the neck

You’ll use your laundry sheets to rinse underwear and anything else that needs it. Some tours will have a laundry service, especially if you’re on a luxury safari.

And don’t be afraid to wear the same thing more than once!

More Essentials for Safaris and Travel

Now that you’ve found the perfect bag, there are a few more things to consider to ensure a smooth trip.

✔️ Travel Insurance is a must. Safety Wing Nomad Insurance will take care of you from take-off to return home. Hook up with SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

✔️ Never count on having drinkable water when travelling in Africa . Great alternatives to buying plastic bottles are to carry a LifeStraw or LifeStraw water bottle . One will filter 4000 L of water, and the company provides drinking water to school kids for every straw sold. Find the LifeStraw Filter on Amazon or Find the LifeStraw Water Bottle on Amazon

✔️ Soap-free shampoo, conditioner, body and face wash, and skin care bars are the perfect way to a void checking your bag because you have too much liquid. Ethique products are an excellent option. Find Ethique on Amazo n

Luggage for an Africa Safari: FAQ

What size bag do i need for safari.

I recommend a maximum size of 45L in a soft-sided bag . Large enough to fit everything you need, but still small enough to be carry-on size.

Measurements of 10 x 12 x 25 inches and 33-44 lbs are average , but a soft squishable bag might be given a bit of leeway in size.

What size luggage is allowed on an African safari?

Small planes used within a safari can have strict size limits that depend on the airline. An average is a 33-44 lbs soft sided bag, measuring about 10 x 12 x 25 inches when it’s all packed.

What should you pack for a trip to Africa if you want to see wildlife

On safari in Africa, the goal is to blend, so clothing in neutral colours like khaki, green, brown and grey are best if you want to see wildlife.

What kind of shoes are best to wear on safari?

On safari it’s best to wear breathable, closed-toed shoes, with soles that can withstand long acacia thorns .

What not to wear on safari?

The goal is to blend, so leave bright, white , and crazy-patterned clothes at home. Also, leave camo behind – it is strictly for military in Africa, and is illegal in some countries. Also, avoid bright and dark colours as they attract mosquitoes and tsetse flies.

Is it ok to wear grey on safari?

Yes , neutral colours like grey , as well as browns, greens, and khakis are good colours to wear on safari.

Do I need a hat for safari?

The sun can be strong in Africa, and you’ll be spending long hours outside on safari. A cap or preferably a wide-brimmed hat is essential, and a chin strap or hat clip is handy.

What are the best duffel bags for safari travel?

A sturdy , l ightweight nylon duffel with comfortable straps and at least one external , easy-access pocket is best for safari travel. Good , covered zippers that will keep the dirt out are important, and look for a duffel with a good warranty .

Summing it Up: The Best Luggage for an African Safari

The best luggage for an African safari is a lightweight duffel bag. But as you can see, there are other options that also work well.

And they’ll work whether you’re heading to South Africa, East Africa, Botswana , or any other of the incredible safari destinations in Africa.

Once you’ve got your bag, you’re one step closer to safari! Africa is an amazing place, and you don’t need to take a lot with you to have an unforgettable time.

It might be daunting to consider travelling so far from home with just a carry-on. Find everything from products designed to minimize what you need to pack, to the pros and cons of packing cubes in IWIF’s epic packing guide .

Happy travels!

You might also like: • How to Plan a Trip to Africa: an Essential Guide • What to Bring When Travelling to Africa: Unexpected Essentials • Types of Safaris in Africa • Travel Resources

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I had been travelling for years before I first went to Africa. Once I had been on my first safari, I was hooked. Now I go back every chance I get. I've lived in Botswana, explored the wild coast of Namibia, toured Southern Africa and so much more.

There's no place that has more to offer a traveller than this enormous and stunning continent. I write about it here to hopefully inspire you to experience it for yourself, and to make your travels easier. It'll be the trip of your life! Happy travels!

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The Ultimate African Safari Packing List, For Botswana And Beyond

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For nature and wildlife lovers, there are few adventures more spellbinding than an African safari. From tracking lions as they stalk prey through grassy plains to watching graceful kudu sashay across rivers, it’s an epic outdoor experience. Since warm days on safari can turn into cooler nights—not to mention the sweltering sun, wind, dust and pesky insects that come up in between—it’s important to carefully plan your African safari packing list to prepare for it all.

Knowing how to put together a failsafe African safari packing list for your trip is essential.

As a journalist who has embarked on multiple safaris, including a trek through the Okavango Delta in Botswana most recently, I’ve learned firsthand the importance of having the right packing list for safari destinations across the continent. You’ll want to bring versatile items that are comfortable and protect you from the elements. Durable yet lightweight activewear and a sturdy pair of hiking boots are key for daytime excursions; you’ll also need lighter tennis shoes or sandals for the evenings in addition to key gear like a headlamp . Most importantly, be aware that many bush flights between tour destinations only allow for softside luggage that meets specific size and weight limits once packed—so depending on where you’re going, you may need to leave that hardshell suitcase at home.

Ahead, here’s what to prioritize on your African safari packing list so you can make the most of those morning game drives and active bush walks.

The Best Vacuums For Carpets To Suck Up Every Piece Of Hidden Dirt

What to expect from this year’s memorial day sales—and 13 early offers that are already live, african safari packing list, at a glance :.

Best Luggage To Bring: Pacsafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack , Monos Metro Weekender , Fjällräven 23L Daypack

Best Clothing To Wear: Outdoor Research Women’s Astroman Long Sleeve Sun Shirt , Patagonia Happy Hike Studio Pant , Oboz Men’s Sawtooth X Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Best Accessories To Carry: Fjällräven Abisko Sun Hat , Thinksport ClearZinc SPF 50 Sunscreen , Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent

Best Gear To Use: Sony Alpha 7 III , Nikon Monarch M5 Binoculars , Black Diamond Spot 400 Head Lamp

Best Luggage To Bring

Most bush flights in Botswana and other parts of southern Africa are restricted to soft-sided, carry-on luggage, with a total permissible weight of 44 pounds per person and the maximum size of an individual bag being 11.8 x 13.8 x 27.5 inches. East African bush flights share similar maximum dimensions for a single bag but typically have a lower total weight allowance, topping out at 33 pounds. Be sure to check with your tour operator about specific size restrictions, as exact regulations can vary, but these measurements are a good rule of thumb.

Yes, packing for a safari with only a carry-on and a daypack may seem daunting, but when you’re methodical about what you bring (more on non-negotiable essentials below), it’s easier than you think.

Best Carry-On Bag

Water-repellant with anti-theft technology, pacsafe exp45 anti-theft carry-on travel pack.

This Pacsafe backpack has served me well on numerous safaris and adventure-focused trips that require softside luggage. It meets bush flight requirements and is also designed with water-repellent fabric and anti-theft technology—it’s seen sun, rain, dust and sweat and can handle it all. Ergonomically designed, the backpack straps are soft and comfortable, and it can also be carried like a suitcase with its side handle. Outer and inner pockets keep everything organized and it’s deceptively roomy.

Best Duffel

Roomy and organized while still meeting size requirements, monos metro weekender.

For a more sleek, elevated style, I opt for the Monos Metro Weekender. Made of water- and scratch-resistant vegan leather, I’ve used this bag on multiple trips and have noticed it wears beautifully with time. Its outer and inner compartments keep everything organized and it even has a slip pocket for shoes. This bag also comes in a durable nylon fabric that can really handle heavy use.

Best Daypack

Fits all of the essentials for active days, fjällräven 23l daypack.

While on safari, you’re often away from camp for long periods on game drives, bush walks and cultural excursions. Bush flight luggage restrictions allow you to bring one bag outside of your main carry-on. A daypack ensures all your must-haves, including water bottle, sunscreen, extra layers and camera, are always within reach. This 23-liter pack from Fjällräven is an ideal size that fits all the essentials and comes in a range of colors. It’s made with durable, waterproof fabric and has an interior laptop sleeve and zipper pockets, as well as stretchy exterior pockets that fit most water bottles. It won’t look out of place in a city either, making it versatile.

Best Camera Bag

Protection for your dslr that doubles as a daypack, shimoda v2 25l backpack.

If you love photography, you’ll likely pack a professional camera to capture the astonishing array of wildlife you’ll spot on safari, and may want to opt for a daypack that doubles as a camera bag. The Shimoda V2 25L Backpack is a favorite among photojournalists. Water-resistant fabric, lockable zippers and a hidden passport pocket make it a great travel bag, and the Core Unit Modular Camera Insert System—sold separately or as part of the above set—provides shockproof protection for cameras and lenses. The side pockets can also store a tripod and water bottle.

Best Compact Bag

Ideal for evening essentials, monos metro mini crossbody.

If there’s room in your carry-on or daypack for a small sling or crossbody bag, it’s nice to have one at camp so that you can stay hands-free without lugging your bigger daypack to the dinner table. Stuff evening essentials like your phone, hand sanitizer, bug spray and even a small headlamp into this Metro Mini Crossbody and you’re good to go.

Best Clothing To Wear

Packing five days’ worth of clothing is more than enough for your safari, especially when considering the luggage restrictions on bush flights. Many camps offer laundry service, and even for those that don’t, only the elephants are around to judge your outfit repeats. Loose, long shirts and pants in light, neutral colors—bright colors will make you conspicuous to wildlife—are the best option for beating the heat and staving off insects like mosquitoes. Linen is a good go-to for any downtime (paired with a shell or fleece when the temperature drops) and durable yet lightweight activewear is key during daytime excursions.

“When it comes to the right clothing for a safari, the best advice I can give is simple: [focus on] layers , ” says Richard Avilino, a private guide with luxury safari outfitter Wilderness , who offers many safaris throughout Botswana. “They [keep you] comfortable and well-prepared for the extremes in temperature.” Pack the essentials below, along with a couple of breathable, long- and short-sleeve t-shirts.

Best UPF Shirt For Women

Made to shield you from the sun.

Outdoor Research

Outdoor Research Women’s Astroman Long Sleeve Sun Shirt

The sub-Saharan African sun can be brutal, and while you’ll want to make sure your face and hands are slathered with sunscreen, a long-sleeve UPF shirt will save you from constantly reapplying while giving you light wind protection. These button-up options from Outdoor Research are designed for maximum airflow, breathability and mobility while offering UPF 30 to 50+ sun protection. As opposed to pullovers, a button-up can be loosened and unbuttoned to help you regulate your temperature throughout the day.

Best UPF Shirt For Men

Feels light and cool while protecting from the sun, outdoor research men’s astroman long sleeve sun shirt.

Outdoor Research makes this shirt in both women’s and men’s sizes. In addition it’s sun-protecting qualities, this style is quick-drying; so whether you’re breaking a sweat on a bush walk or doing a quick clothing wash in the evening, you’ll never have to worry about lugging around soggy shirts.

Best Pants For Women

Lightweight but great for rigorous activity, patagonia happy hike studio pant.

While some safari-goers are comfortable in shorts, a lightweight, technical pant means one less layer of sunscreen and bug spray. Pants also add comfort on long game drives and are better suited for bush walks when branches can scratch your legs. Patagonia’s Happy Hike Studio Pant are streamlined, soft, stretchy and sweat wicking. While lightweight, they also stand up to longer day hikes and more rigorous outdoor activity—and are great for when temperatures fall in the evening, too.

Best Pants For Men

Durable and water-repellant, lululemon license to train jogger.

A comparable pant for men is the License to Train Jogger from Lululemon. They’re lightweight, durable and stretchy, plus they’re water-repellent, making them perfect for all manner of adventures.

Best Fleece Jacket For Women

Made to keep you warm on night walks, arc’teryx women's covert cardigan.

Even though you can expect heat throughout the day, safari excursions often start early or go late. You can expect to go on sunrise game drives and night walks where you’ll spot some of the wilderness’s nocturnal creatures like leopards—all of which means cooler temps. Pack a lightweight yet warm fleece to make the most of these moments. The women’s Covert Cardigan by Arc’teryx is warm, soft and breathable, and comes in a variety of light-hued, safari-friendly colors.

Best Fleece Jacket For Men

A warm and lightweight great for layering, patagonia men’s micro d fleece jacket.

Patagonia’s most lightweight fleece jacket offers comfort and softness and will keep you warm while still easily rolling up into your carry-on. Its front zipper makes it easy to pop on and off for layering, and it comes with a front pocket that you can use to hold hand sanitizer, sunscreen and more.

Best Walking Shoes For Men

Sturdy with a strong grip, oboz men’s sawtooth x low waterproof hiking shoes.

While a pair of sandals or tennis shoes is a nice-to-have for evenings at camp, a sturdy walking shoe is what you’ll be reaching for every morning. Choose a style with decent arch support and grip on the sole that can handle some dirt. These ankle hiking shoes by Oboz are both durable and comfortable, meaning you can go on adventurous treks all day long without having to worry about them holding up.

Best Walking Shoes For Women

Waterproof and made for long treks, oboz women’s sawtooth x low waterproof hiking shoes.

The women’s version of this shoe is also lightweight and breathable while still offering some water protection, so they’ll have you covered while you’re motoring down the Delta’s plains in a boat.

Best Camp Shoes For Men

Light and supportive, birkenstock men’s mogami terra sandals.

After spending the day in hiking shoes, you’ll want to swap them out in the evenings for something lighter. Tennis shoes or a pair of supportive sandals are your best bet. These classic, dual-purpose Birkenstock sandals in an easy-to-clean, waterproof material are perfect for going to dinner, or for staying poolside in the heat of the afternoon.

Best Camp Shoes For Women

A reprieve for your feet after an active day, birkenstock women’s mogami terra sandals.

One great thing about Birkenstocks are they look good on everyone. The women’s version of the Mogami Terra sandals provide the comfort and support the brand is known for, and are appropriate for both daytime and evening activities.

Best Accessories To Carry

Comfort on safari is all in the details: The best sun and wind protection often comes in the form of small accessories like hats and buffs that you can keep on hand in your daypack. So while packing space is certainly tight, it’s worth it throw these in—you never know when you might need them.

A Breathable Option That Will Keep Its Shape

Fjällräven abisko sun hat.

A wide-brim hat that keeps the sun off your face and neck is a smart packing move. The unisex Fjällräven Abisko Sun Hat is a great choice for warm-weather destinations: It’s lightweight, breathable and won’t get bent out of shape no matter which way you stuff it in your daypack. Plus, it comes in an array of neutral colors.

Best Sunglasses

Stylish and understated, ray-ban round metal sunglasses.

You can’t go wrong with a pair of classic Ray-Ban aviator or round metal sunglasses. They’re comfortable and have an understated look that’s perfect for game drives and sundowners (or bush happy hour) alike. Opt for a polarized version for a safari trip to reduce glare on boat and canoe rides, as well as river crossings.

Offers Built-In Cooling Technology And An Insect Shield

Buff coolnet uv neck gaiter.

Game drives can be windy and dusty, so a buff or neck gaiter is nice to have within reach, and they roll up to almost nothing in your carry-on. This CoolNet UV neck gaiter by Buff is made for warmer weather, integrating UPF 50 sun protection, cooling technology and a built-in insect shield. Wear it around your neck and quickly pull it up over your nose when the wind picks up. You can also use it as a headband to wick sweat and keep hair out of the way while your Land Cruiser careens down dirt trails and across rivers.

Best Sunscreen

Sweat-resistant and non-greasy, thinksport clearzinc spf 50 sunscreen.

Thinksport sunscreen has a great reputation among outdoor enthusiasts, and this Clear Zinc SPF 50 is my go-to. It’s sweat and water-resistant, free of harmful chemicals, non-greasy and has a significantly less white look than other zinc-based brands. It also boasts a long lasting, 80-minute wear time and it’s reef-friendly, in case you’re planning on extending your stay and visiting coastal countries on the continent. There’s a face version , too.

Best Bug Spray

Sure to keep pesky insects away, sawyer picaridin insect repellent.

Insects are a reality in most African countries. Although your doctor may recommend you take an anti-malaria medication before your trip, depending on which region you’re traveling to, your first line of defense is a good bug spray. Choose a formula made with Picaridin, also known as Icaridin, an effective alternative to DEET that won’t damage your clothing and gear (I’m a mosquito magnet and Icaridin does the trick). Do a light spray on skin under clothing and pay special attention to exposed areas like ankles, hands and ears.

Best Gear To Use

For many travelers, an African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Make sure you don’t miss a thing by packing a decent pair of binoculars and a camera that yields print-quality photos so that you can relive spectacular wildlife encounters and other memorable moments from the African wilderness. Here’s what else you need:

Best Camera

Lightweight and professional-quality.

Sony Electronics

Sony Alpha 7 III

Considering the packing restrictions on safari, a lightweight and compact mirrorless camera is your best bet. The Sony Alpha 7 III delivers professional-quality photos and videos with fast continuous and silent shooting—perfect for capturing wildlife on the move, even if you’re new to the technology and shooting on auto. Although the kit lens is great for everyday shooting, upgrade to at least a 70-300mm zoom lens to capture wildlife. Don’t forget to pack a universal adapter to keep your battery charged.

Best Binoculars

Bright and clear views, even in low light, nikon monarch m5 binoculars.

Chances are your guide will have a pair of binoculars on hand during game drives and other excursions, but you’ll often have to wait your turn if you’re traveling with a group. And while you’re almost guaranteed animal encounters during a safari in southern or East Africa, binoculars are handy for getting an even closer look at the jewel-tone colors of the country’s prolific birdlife or zeroing in on a high-octane chase. The lightweight, compact and waterproof Nikon Monarch M5 delivers eight times magnification power for bright, clear views, even in low light.

Best Headlamp

A versatile accessory for visibility.

Black Diamond

Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp

A headlamp is a great little piece of gear to take on safari, whether you want to make sure that the throaty bellow of hippos in the middle of the night is indeed coming from outside your tent—or simply to make your way to dinner in the evenings with a bit more visibility. Black Diamond is a tried-and-true brand and the Spot 400 is one of the most versatile options on the market, with a lightweight, ergonomic design.

Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Helps keep loud noises at bay, sony wf-1000xm5 noise cancelling headphones.

Part of the fun of a safari is hopping between camps on a puddle jumper, or small bush plane. What safari newbies might not be aware of is how loud those little planes can be, which makes a pair of noise-cancelling headphones a non-negotiable for me. A pair of AirPods can do the trick, but for the best noise-cancelling technology on the market, I like the Sony WF-1000XM5.

Best Water Bottle

Purifies water with the touch of a button, monos kiyu uvc water bottle.

Your safari camp may supply a reusable water bottle, but unless you live on the continent, your journey from home to said camp will likely be long. You can stay hydrated and avoid single-use plastic on the multi-leg sojourn by toting your own water bottle with a built-in filter. The sleek, stainless-steel Monos Kiyo UVC Water Bottle holds half a liter and serves up clean drinking water—a good option in many African destinations. The touch of a button activates UVC technology that purifies your water, eliminating up to 99.99% of bacteria.

How We Chose Items For An African Safari Packing List

Given the seemingly infinite amount of clothing, gear and accessories out there, it helps to have an expert on hand to pinpoint the true essentials for an African safari.

I’m a Vancouver-based freelance writer who has gone on safari in numerous African countries, including Botswana, Rwanda and Kenya. In particular, my recent travels through Botswana, from the Okavango Delta to the northern Linyanti region, helped me master the art of safari packing. Beyond Africa, I have extensive adventure travel experience across the globe, from trekking through the wilds of Patagonia and India to braving the Australian outback and Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest. I’ve learned through experience what to pack for a variety of different climates, natural elements and adrenaline-pumping activities.

I researched the items for this African safari packing list extensively and tested many of the items myself on recent safaris. I also pulled from decades of firsthand experience as an adventure traveler to find the best recommendations for your next safari.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

From meticulously testing and reviewing the best ski gear to narrowing down the best hiking boots for your trekking adventures, Forbes Vetted editors have dedicated themselves to helping you pack wisely for whatever trip you book. When putting together this African safari packing list, we applied the same unyielding commitment to ensure that our readers will enjoy game drives and bush walks stress-free.

We examined each contender on this list, closely considering the materials and construction, and testing them out on multiple safaris. To make the cut for this African safari packing list, products need to provide both comfort for active days as well as protection from the elements.

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Africa , Kenya , South Africa

The best luggage for safari holidays.

Wherever you’re heading on your wildlife travels, picking the best luggage for safari is essential. 

Most safari companies specify a number of rules your safari luggage should follow, regarding the weight, material and features, in order to help it squeeze into cramped places in luggage compartments and your tent. 

But you also need to make sure it holds all your stuff… so what are we to do?! 

Never fear! I’ve done the research on the best bags to take with you, that not only fit your entire packing list but also meet all the requirements of the airlines AND look stylish too!

And remember, if you buy anything after clicking on a link in this post, you’re supporting my blog to keep bringing you unbiased safari luggage reviews like this one! 

Best safari holdalls and duffel bags

Most safari companies recommend a soft holdall case without wheels, as they’re easily squished into planes and onto the back of jeeps. 

If that’s what you’re after, read all about my favourite safari duffel bags right here:

Rufiji Canvas Duffel Bag

A traditional canvas holdall , available in two colour ways and holding an impressive 72 litres of stuff. 

Available exclusively from The Safari Store for £179. Use my code reallywildlife to get an awesome 5% off. 

This is a really stylish holdall in traditional safari colours, and there’ll be no mistaking your bag for another once it appears on the luggage carousel. 

It’s comfortable to carry (as long as you’ve kept within the weight limits!) using the short grab handles, as well as the longer over-the-shoulder strap. 

The zipper opens up really wide, allowing you to see all your belongings quickly and easily.

These bags can be pricey once you’ve already shelled out for the safari itself, but if you go on safaris fairly often, it’s a great investment for the future. 

There are no internal pockets at all, meaning everything is in the same main area when you open it. This isn’t necessarily a problem for everyone, but if you like to be organised and STAY organised, consider a few packing cubes to help. 

>> Click here to buy !

Rab Kit Bag II 80L

One of the largest options on our list of the best safari luggage, this rugged bag has plenty of room for up to 80L of your stuff.

Find it online at Cotswold Outdoor (UK) from £80.  

Despite the amount of stuff it can carry, the Rab kit bag is really easy to transport. Its detachable shoulder straps allow you to wear it like a backpack, while the 4 other handles give you the option of carrying it in many other ways too. 

It’s made from a very hard-wearing and water-resistant fabric, making sure your belongings stay safe and dry no matter how they’re squeezed into luggage compartments or thrown around by luggage handlers!

It’s a matter of personal preference, but I don’t find this bag to be particularly stylish. It’s a bog-standard style only available in a couple of muted colourways, so it doesn’t spark joy as much for me as other brightly coloured choices!

North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag

This medium-sized duffel bag is an iconic choice, offering 71L of space and a classic design.

You can find this holdall in lots of other colourways and sizes at Cotswold Outdoor (UK) for £120. 

The classic North Face holdall is hard-wearing and durable, while also being made from water-resistant, recycled materials. This makes it a sustainable and practical choice too. 

The large interior with a mesh pocket offers plenty of space for your clothes, while a separate compartment on the end can be used to store shoes or dirty laundry while travelling. 

It’s very easy to carry thanks to its flexible and adjustable straps, meaning you can wear it comfortably like a backpack or use the padded side handles to carry as a holdall. 

It’s genuinely difficult to find a con for this one; there are plenty of reasons to choose it as your next safari holdall, which may make it difficult to spot yours on the luggage carousel amongst many lookalike bags. It’s a very popular choice! 

Best wheelie cases for taking on safari 

Though bags with wheels aren’t always recommended, they do make carrying your luggage a whole lot easier! 

My favourite safari suitcases are right here: 

Craghoppers 28” Wheelie Bag

A soft wheelie case , bursting with features and 70 litres of space for all your safari essentials. 

Buy direct from Craghoppers , where two of the colours are currently on sale for £136.50. 

This wheelie bag has tons of space in the main compartment, as well as a number of internal pockets to keep you organised when travelling. If you manage to fill the cavernous 70-litre interior, the wheels on this bag will make navigating through airports and the bush a breeze. 

The soft fabric is made from 19 recycled plastic bottles, so it boasts eco-credentials too. But that doesn’t make it any less secure:  it’s been designed to be slash-resistant for extra security! 

Yes, I’ve already listed the fact this bag has wheels as a pro. However, not all safari companies or airlines recommend bags with wheels as they can be more difficult to fit into the hold on small aeroplanes. That said I have seen wheelie cases being used widely across Africa – just make sure you do your research first.

Osprey Sojourn 60 Travel Pack 

The most suitcase-like bag on our list is packed with features and flexibility, from one of travel’s most widely recognised brands.

Choose between two different colourways from Cotswold Outdoor (UK) for £275.

This bag is incredibly flexible. Thanks to its wheeled chassis, walking through airports will be a breeze. And when you don’t have the option to use the wheels, pick the bag up and carry it like a backpack with its shoulder straps. 

At 60L, it’s not the largest bag on our list, but various compartments and mesh pockets will keep your clothes, toiletries and accessories safe and secure. Even if you overpack, the compression straps help you maximise capacity and meet any limits on dimensions. 

This bag is the most expensive bag reviewed so, naturally, the price will count against it. But if you’re after a well-made bag from a well-known brand, the Osprey Sojourn 60 is a great option. 

Despite the bag’s soft material, it is one of the most structured bags, particularly due to the plastic high road chassis that holds the wheels. That means it won’t be as flexible or as easy to squeeze into luggage compartments and you may get some disapproving looks from the pilot when loading. But the bag’s manoeuvrability is a worthy trade-off if your airline will allow it.

Cabin-friendly safari bags

Many safari-goers swear by keeping their luggage small and going with hand luggage only. This makes travel incredibly efficient, so consider these bags for your next trip:

Craghoppers 40L Holdall

A small but mighty backpack that’s compact enough to fit in the cabin but large enough to fit in plenty of stuff for a short break. 

Buy from the official Craghoppers site from £105. 

The small size means you’ll struggle to go over the weight limits imposed by small aeroplanes. It’s also incredibly comfortable to wear with adjustable straps that can be worn as a backpack or across your shoulder.

Despite its size, the holdall boasts lots of compartments to keep your laptop and tablet secure, as well as smaller internal organiser pockets so you won’t lose your essentials. 

The 40L interior won’t be big enough for long trips but is ideal if you’re committed to travelling with hand luggage only. Plus, many safari lodges offer laundry facilities so you can afford to take less with you.

——–

Whatever you’re looking for in a safari bag, whether it’s space, security or style, our unbiased reviews are designed to help you find it!

Anna is the founder of Really Wildlife. She's a 30-something lover of wildlife travel, vegetables and listening to the Lion King soundtrack on full blast.

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What luggage for safari?

Luggage weights on safari

Luxury safaris normally include light aircraft flights to minimise travel times and maximise enjoyment. You’ll get a great bird’s eye view of the scenery below, but your luggage will have to meet strict weight limits.

Typically on safari your baggage weight limit will be:

• 20kg (44lbs) in Southern Africa
• 15kg (33lbs) in East Africa

These limits are a total and include hand baggage as well as your main bag.

You shouldn’t need more than these limits since:

• Safari camps and lodges provide toiletries and towels
• Laundry can be done daily
• Dress on safari is casual throughout the day and into the evening

Bags have to fit into the luggage pod on a light aircraft. If you do need a higher luggage limit – generally something only really required by photographers with multiple camera bodies and long lenses – you can buy an extra seat on the light aircraft to make things more flexible.

Main bags for safari

The key restriction is that, on safari, bags must be strictly soft sided bags only, no wheels or frames (don’t worry about not having wheels as there are trolleys at airports and someone to carry your bag to your room or tent in the safari camp).

Bags have to fit into the luggage pod on a light aircraft flying between safari camps and lodges. When the flight is full, bags often require a shove to squeeze them in.

‘Weekender’ leather safari luggage by Sandstorm Kenya 57 x 19 x 39 cm (22.4 x 7.5 x 15.4 inches)

Size restrictions are seldom explicitly defined, since the weight restriction generally means you only need a ‘medium bag’, but aim at something no bigger than the following:

• 62cm (24 inches) long
• 30cm (12 inches) high
• 25cm (10 inches) wide

In terms of ‘capacity’ this size is likely to be around 70 litres.

Day pack for safari

For many people on safari, their hand luggage on the international flights becomes their day pack to take out on a safari vehicle or when walking. Obviously, if you are going to walk with it, a small rucksack is easier than a tote bag.

Wayo Fly Camp walking safari with backpacks

Ideally your day pack is big enough to carry your camera and accessories (if you don’t have a big DSLR and a separate camera bag), a water bottle, sun cream, tissues and a portable battery charger.

Packing help

We’ve produced an interactive safari packing list, which asks three questions before tailoring a personal list for you based on destination, time of year and safari activities you’re undertaking. Click the link to try it out: Interactive Safari Packing List

Any questions?

If you’ve got this far and not found an answer to a question you have that we should have included, please ask in the comments section below, or pop us an email. We’ll be sure to reply and may amend the article to include our answer.

We would be delighted to help you plan a holiday, or answer any questions if you’re at an earlier stage. Our team of experts have travelled widely throughout Africa. They can offer expert advice on every type of safari from family and beach holidays to riding and primate safaris.  If you would like to talk to someone who has been there and done it, please just  send us an email  or  give us a call .

17 responses to “What luggage for safari?”

I’m going on a 7 day safari and then to a beach hotel for 7 days. What happens to my luggage for beach holiday whilst on safari?

Thanks for the question. Unless you have particularly heavy or bulky watersports equipment it would be normal to take it with you.

Can you please suggest some makes and models of duffle bags that match 62x30x25 as I am struggling to find this size?

Hi Adursh, thanks for your message. One of the team will be back in touch soon to try and help you with this.

I am struggling with fitting camera equipment and clothing for 14 days safari in a bag that weighs less than or equal to 33 pounds. Seems that bags either do one or the other. Camera bags that leave zero room for any clothing or a travel bag that has zero padding or dividers for equipment. Does anybody have a recommendation for a good bag that fills camera and clothing needs and is no larger than 28″X18″X10″?

I’ve asked around the office and got a quick reply from a couple of friendly photographers. Noone uses a single bag to achieve safety for their camera kit (they aren’t ever checking it in) and the rest of their luggage. Unless they only have a single day’s worth of clothes, they use two bags/cases/packs.

Hope you find a solution. Have a great trip.

Hi I would also like to get some recommendations on makes and models of bags measuring 62x30x25 as nothing I’ve seen matches this size. Thank you

Eva – bear in mind that luggage is fine if it can be ‘squashed’ to the sizes mentioned. The luggage pods of many light aircraft are an awkward shape. As long as the pilot can make your bag fit, your fine. Either a small bag absolutely full, or a bigger bag that’s half full and can be squashed to fit.

Travelling to South Africa this Oct 2023 . What do we do with our large cases . Staying in the Commodore Hotel first for a few days then on to Franschhoek for a few days then Whale watching. Before flying to Karegi for safari for 4 days then back to Belmond Mount Hotel . The cases are the problem. As the flight to safari is small . So any suggestions on what we do with cases please.

Dear Leslie We would offer our clients two options: (i) Pack less. Hopefully this doesn’t sound too obvious, but most people pack too much when they holiday. South Africa isn’t generally formal for meals and you can get laundry done everywhere. In most cases there is little reason to have more luggage than can go to a safari camp with you. (ii) Arrange for the cases you don’t need on safari to go direct to the next hotel. There would be a cost for them to be transported but most hotels have a storage area where they can look after them until you arrive. If you choose the second option, I hope your tour operator can make the arrangements for you.

Thank you Richard. Much appreciated

No problem at all Eva.

Might I presume that a Cotopaxi Allpa 35L travel pack, 22 x 10 x 12 inches would fit into the described baggage pod?

It sounds like an Osprey Porter 46 at 22 x 14 x 10 inches might be a bit too wide.

Good morning Alan, I will ask one of the team to get back in touch and they can help advise. Thanks Katy

Can I take a medium suitcase with wheels

Can it be a medium suit case for 8 days

Hi Katrina, thanks for getting in touch. It depends on where you are travelling to and whether or not you are taking internal flights. We would be more than happy to advise if you e-mail us direct – [email protected] . Thansk Katy

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What to Pack for An African Safari, According to Trip Organizers

Packing is hard. Especially when the destination might involve giant mosquitoes or Instagram-worthy hiking trails. What do frequent travelers to these spots — the ones who best know how to prepare for the conditions — put in their suitcases ? We’ll be tackling this in our series “ The Trip List .”

Going on an African safari and spotting animals like lions and zebras in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Since it’s not something most people do very often, it’s also not the easiest trip to pack for. For those lucky enough to have a safari in their future, we’ve rounded up a group of experienced tour guides and travel planners (with hundreds of safaris collectively under their belts) to help you out.

“People always overpack. I think that’s the biggest mistake,” says Deborah Calmeyer, founder and CEO of the safari trip organizer Roar Africa . She explains that, in terms of clothing, you generally just need a few casual pieces, as there aren’t many occasions to dress up on safari. Most lodges also offer laundry service with a quick turnaround time, so there’s no need to pack a new outfit for each day of your trip. Instead of prioritizing style, safari experts say to focus on layering , as you’ll spend most of your time outdoors on game drives in open-air vehicles. It might be chilly when you leave your lodge in the early morning but heat up quickly when the sun comes out. “If you’re out after sunset when the temperature drops, those layers will come in handy again,” says Calmeyer.

Before you start packing, learn the luggage requirements of your particular trip, which will determine how much you can bring. Even if you fly to Africa on a major international airline, once you’re in the bush, you’ll travel from site to site on small aircrafts with limited space. “The portal leading into the luggage compartments is quite small, and the bags have to be smushed and manipulated into these little cargo areas,” explains Kota Tabuchi, the managing director for African travel at the trip-planning consultancy Travel Beyond . Depending on your destination, weight limits can range from roughly 33 to 42 pounds, with lower limits more common in East Africa and higher maximums generally seen in South Africa. Choose a soft duffel bag (check your airline’s rules to confirm whether wheeled bags are allowed), as you can’t bring hard-sided luggage on many small planes.

You’re likely going on safari to encounter wild animals (especially the big five: lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants, and buffalo), so don’t scrimp on binoculars and cameras that will help you get the best view and capture the best memories of your sightings. Below, our experts share their top picks for the gear that’ll make your trip comfortable and memorable, plus everything else you’ll need for a perfect safari.

As stated above, a soft-sided duffel bag is your best bet for traveling on safari. Tabuchi has owned this North Face bag for more than 15 years now and has brought it on multiple safaris each year. He calls it “absolutely bombproof.” The lightweight and roomy duffel should hold everything you need, and it is compliant with most African airline requirements. If you want another option, Tabuchi also likes the very similar Patagonia Black Hole bag (a longtime Strategist favorite ).

At under $100, this bag is an affordable pick that was mentioned by several safari pros, including Ina Steinhilber, president of tour operator Thomson Safaris . It’s lightweight, too, clocking in at just over two pounds, leaving plenty of room under the weight allowance for your stuff.

If you’re allowed to bring a soft duffel with wheels, this Osprey bag gets rave reviews from Wil Smith, founder and director of travel organizer Deeper Africa . “Make sure the bag is water resistant and has a storm flap over the zipper,” he says. “On a safari, you’re out on bumpy roads, and you never know if your bag’s going to end up out in the rain, dust, or dirt. It probably won’t, but you want to prepare for anything.” He says this bag checks all his boxes and even has lockable zippers.

“These are a must for finding clothing easily in the soft-sided duffel,” says Kristina Jackson, a senior safari and Kilimanjaro travel consultant at Thomson Safaris. Many frequent travelers have recommended packing cubes to us in the past (including the eBags set) because they compress your gear to save space — even more crucial when you have a tight luggage allotment. “After safari, you may find yourself using them more often,” says Jackson. “They make traveling so easy.”

According to Joel Cody, sales and marketing director at Thomson Safaris, you’ll also want a backpack for your daily game drives to carry things like extra layers, bug spray , and binoculars. Because it folds down into a compact pouch, he suggests this Paravel backpack, as you can easily fit it into your larger luggage.

“Layers are the most practical way to cope with fluctuating daytime and nighttime temperatures,” says Sherwin Banda, president of the safari trip operator African Travel , and pretty much all of our experts agree. A basic tee is a good first layer, and in the summer you might not need more than a long-sleeved shirt on top for the chilly morning and evenings. “We all have one of these,” says Ali Riley, art director of Thomson Safaris, of this polyester button-up. She likes that it’s comfortable, moisture-wicking, and offers UPF 40 protection from the sun.

If you prefer natural fibers, Cody recommends these linen long-sleeved shirts from Uniqlo. “They’re lightweight and comfortable, and you can wear a T-shirt or tank underneath for layering,” he says. “They look good after they’re washed and are available at an excellent price point.”

Patagonia pieces came up a lot among our experts, who like how they’re made sustainably and designed for travel and adventure. For a slightly warmer second layer, Cody likes this half-zip, which is made from a moisture-wicking fabric and locks in body heat. He tells us it “provides warmth without bulk, and doesn’t take up much room in a backpack.”

An even warmer jacket is a good option to have with you even in the summer. Elizabeth Gordon, co-founder and CEO of the safari company Extraordinary Journeys , explains that many popular safari locations, such as Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, are located at high altitudes and may be chilly year-round. For cold nights and mornings, she loves Patagonia’s Nano Puff jackets. “They weigh practically nothing and somehow always keep me at the right temperature,” she says. For a less-expensive option, Gordon also likes ultralight down jackets from Uniqlo, available for both men and women .

“A light rain jacket can double as a windbreaker, so it’s good to bring no matter the time of year, [especially] with the changing rain patterns,” says Gordon. She says spring and fall are typically the rainy seasons in East Africa, but climate change has made the weather less predictable. To make sure you’ll have coverage in the event of an unexpected storm, she recommends this packable, lightweight Patagonia jacket.

There’s no need to go out and buy special pants for your safari — chinos , leggings , and shorts are all generally fine (though some experts advise against jeans because they’re heavy to pack). If you want to really get in the spirit, however, Riley suggests these convertible pants from Eddie Bauer. You can wear them as long pants in the morning and then roll them up into capris when the weather heats up. “They’re extremely comfortable, if not overly stylish,” she says. Here’s a similar style for men that unzips into shorts. Even if it’s warm out, our experts like having the option of long pants in the evenings when mosquitos are out.

Leggings and yoga pants are especially popular on safari because they’re lightweight and comfortable, especially if you’re going to be sitting in a Jeep all day. If you anticipate being cold, a fleece-lined pair is good to have too. “In case you get a cold night in Ngorongoro, these are great to sleep in, are inexpensive, and don’t take up a lot of room,” says Cody.

Although most lodges have laundry services — often complimentary for guests — many won’t wash women’s underwear because of cultural norms in certain countries. Since you may have to wash your own underwear in your bathroom sink, go with pairs made for exercise or travel that are designed to be fast-drying. “Ideally you want clothing that is easy to wash and dry,” says Smith. He includes underwear in this category, especially for women. Ex Officio (which makes some of our favorite men’s and women’s underwear) specializes in quick-drying materials that’ll make it easy for you to do your own wash.

Gordon points out that most lodges have pools, and getting in an afternoon dip is a great way to cool down after a long day out in the bush. Obviously, go with whatever swimsuit you love, but if you want some Strategist-approved picks, check out out recommendations for men and women (plus bikinis ). Here are two crowd-pleasers that earned our seal of approval.

Unless you’re trekking through the mountains to see gorillas, safaris are mostly sedentary experiences spent on Jeeps or Land Rovers driving through wildlife preserves to catch a glimpse of the big five. Our experts say there’s no need to waste precious luggage space on heavy hiking boots , as you’ll likely be doing only a bit of walking outside the vehicle. Jackson suggests wearing Toms. “They’re perfect to slip on and off while in the vehicle throughout the day and are also very lightweight.” Similarly, her colleague Cody swears by Vans, telling us, “They’re so easy to take off and on and are washable. I wore these all the time.”

If you do anticipate doing more active walking on your trip, both Smith and Tabuchi recommend trail-running shoes. They’re not as bulky as hiking boots (which our experts say aren’t necessary for most safari terrain) but still offer stability and traction. “They’re very sturdy,” says Smith. “You want good traction because if you get out of the car and it has been raining, the ground may be a little slippery.” Tabuchi says any trail runners with a solid rubber sole should do the trick. The lightweight Hoka One One Torrent is popular among trail runners and should be rugged enough to get you through your safari adventure.

Although our experts recommend closed-toe shoes while you’re out on game drives, they say to also bring a pair of flip-flops or sandals for when you’re relaxing back at your home base. “It’s great to have some comfortable flip flops for your tent or your lodge or around the campfire,” says Smith. You’ll also want to wear your flip-flops at the pool if your lodge has one. Brazilian-made Havaianas are an affordable yet stylish option that we’ve written about before .

Accessories

In the past, we’ve covered how merino-wool socks are ideal for all types of activities including running , biking , and hiking . Their temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking properties also make them perfect for safari. Steinhilber says Smartwool socks will “keep your feet warm on cool nights” and, given their lightness, will also be comfortable on daytime game drives.

Calmeyer says a shawl or pashmina will “never go to waste on safari” because it’s an all-in-one piece that you can use to stay warm, block out the sun, or even zhuzh up your casual clothes for a candlelit dinner back at the lodge. Gordon agrees, telling us she always brings a scarf “to dress everything up, or protect from dust.” Nicole Scherr, a former marketing project manager at Thomson Safaris, likes this specific shawl because it’s lightweight, quick-drying, and has UPF sun protection. “It’s great for the plane because it becomes a small blanket, and it’s also light enough to drape over yourself in the vehicle to protect from getting a burn,” she says.

If you’re not into shawls, a bandana or multipurpose gaiter can help with sun protection and keeping dust off your face. These two are favorites of the Thomson Safaris team. The UV-protective Buff also has built-in insect repellent, which you’ll appreciate when the mosquitoes come out.

Since you’ll be out in the sun for most of the day, all of our experts recommend a hat — both to prevent burning and to keep the sun out of your eyes so you can focus on the wildebeest migration or whatever amazing sight you’ve come across on your drive. Tabuchi recommends “a baseball cap at the very minimum,” but if you want even more coverage, several of our experts suggested a wide-brimmed hat like this one from Tilley, which is a top choice among Thomson Safari guides. It’ll cover the front and back of your neck, and it’s also packable, so you can cram it into your luggage and it will retain its shape when you take it out.

While the classic safari hat above is practical, Gordon admits it’s not the most stylish; she prefers a Panama hat like this one. You’ll get nearly as much sun protection in a bit more fashionable of a package.

Binoculars and cameras

“You can’t go on safari without these,” says Steinhilber, and nearly all of our experts agree that a good pair of binoculars will enhance your trip. How close you’re able to get to animals will depend on where exactly you’re going on safari, but Tabuchi explains that in many national parks and game reserves, vehicles are restricted to the road networks, so your driver won’t be able to go off-road to follow a pride of lions or elephants bathing in a river. That’s when binoculars will really come in handy. Although some lodges and game drives provide loaner pairs, Calmeyer says you’ll often end up having to share these with other guests, so it’s worth bringing your own. Gordon adds that “not having binoculars holds you back.”

All binoculars are labeled with two numbers. The first represents the magnification power (for example, “10” means objects will appear ten times bigger than they actually are), and the second is the lens diameter, which determines the field of vision. Binoculars can range in price from under $100 to well into the four figures for a Swarovski pair that Smith calls “the envy of every safari guide and bird enthusiast.” For a safari, Smith says to look for a pair with minimum specs of 8x42, like this mid-range model from Zeiss. With these, Smith says you’ll be able to zoom in on incredible sights like a rhinoceros 1,000 yards away.

If you’re willing to make more of an investment, the Vortex Viper 10x42 are Smith’s personal favorite binoculars. “Those are really good binoculars at a very reasonable price,” he says. “I think the glass is good; it’s stable. I’ve had people compare them with much more expensive binoculars.”

Smartphone cameras are so high-quality these days that experts say you’ll be able to get a lot of great shots with your iPhone — but on safari there are occasions when you’ll want a traditional camera. Like binoculars, a camera will be useful when your drive can’t get close to an animal and your phone camera’s zoom isn’t strong enough to shoot a clear picture from 50 yards away. Tabuchi adds that there are some areas where smartphone photography is banned to protect rhinoceroses, as poachers have used geotagged photos to track down the animals. And, as Gordon points out, if there’s any occasion to break out your fancy cameras and lenses, it’s Africa. Experts say you’ll want a minimum of 300-400mm zoom lenses for shooting at typical safari distances.

This Sony is a favorite of both Smith’s and Tabuchi’s. A bridge between an entry-level point-and-shoot and a high-end DSLR, it has an adjustable telescopic lens that zooms out to 600mm, more than enough to capture lion paws or the eyes of an elephant from a distance. Compared to a DSLR camera with multiple lenses, this one “takes up less space,” Smith says, “and you don’t have to mess around changing lenses.” Tabuchi calls it “stellar,” telling us “it’s got the functionality and zoom capabilities of a DSLR but has enough automatic features in there for dummies like myself.” (If you do choose to go the DSLR route, Tabuchi recommends renting additional lenses from Lensrentals.com to save money on expensive kits you might not use after your safari.)

Here’s a more affordable bridge camera that made Calmeyer’s list of recommended models for Roar Africa safari guests. She admits it won’t be as powerful as a DSLR, but for the price it’s a solid option for capturing both close-ups of animals and sweeping landscape shots.

Even pre-pandemic, experts recommended packing hand sanitizer, since you might be eating lunch straight off a game drive or need to take a bathroom break out in the bush and far from running water. Of course, by now we all have our own sanitizer preferences, but Steinhilber especially likes this lavender one because she says it “doesn’t have that terrible antiseptic odor.” (Interestingly, it’s also Sarah Michelle Gellar’s favorite .)

“The African sun is brutal,” says Calmeyer, and a good sunscreen is an absolute must. Any type you prefer will work as long as it has a high SPF, but if you want a safari-approved pick, Jackson says Badger is a solid “all-natural brand to use all day long.”

Don’t forget lip protection. Steinhilber says any lip balm you choose must have a strong SPF. She uses this one from Dermatone.

Mosquitos, tsetse flies, chiggers, and other critters are often unavoidable on safari, but a good bug spray can reduce your chances of getting bitten. Now’s not the time for organic essential-oil-based repellents that experts say won’t be up to the task. Instead, you’ve got to bring in the DEET. Brittany Silva, a safari trip manager at Thomson Safaris, says this 30 percent DEET spray is one of the best. Another good option is to wait until you land, so that you can buy bug spray from an African company and feel confident that it’s designed to repel the local insects. Calmeyer suggests the brands Peaceful Sleep and Tabard . “They work better than anything I’ve ever got from anywhere else,” she says. Gordon agrees, calling Peaceful Sleep “magical.”

If you’ve read our coverage of the best tick repellents , you know we’re already big fans of this permethrin spray, which can be used to treat clothing and gear. Smith, along with the team at Thomson Safaris, also uses it and likes the extra protection it provides. You can spray it on your shoes, your hat, and anything else you might be wearing to keep bugs at bay.

If you really don’t want to use DEET (which can be smelly and irritate skin), Smith suggests the non-toxic ingredient picaridin as an alternative. “It comes in nice, soft lotions that smell good,” he says, “and it’s just as effective as high-concentration DEET.” He says this Sawyer lotion feels gentle and non-greasy on your skin.

Even if your lodge has a laundry service, if you’re moving between places quickly and won’t be at a specific lodge for more than one night, Smith recommends packing soap for washing your own clothes. He says, “You can just wash your stuff and hang it up to dry while you’re sleeping, so you always have something clean.” Also, bringing your own soap is a must if your lodge won’t wash your underwear. Jackson recommends this eco-friendly, biodegradable soap for easy cleaning.

Additional gear

“On glamping safaris to the Serengeti, charging opportunities are generally limited to the vehicles and central lounge areas,” says Andrew Doherty, manager of special-interest travel at Thomson Safaris. Since you might not have a personal charging station in your tent or lodge, he recommends bringing a power bank that you can charge up when you’re near an outlet and then use to keep your phone and other gadgets running when you’re out of reach. “That way, you can continue to scan through selfies and edit safari shots on your phone while lying in bed listening to lions roaring in the distance.”

“There are three different plugs in Africa,” says Gordon. “A universal adapter is good to have because if you’re entering different countries, you’re just going to want to have all three in one.” This adapter will work in popular safari countries like South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.

Similarly, not all tents and lodges will have lights and electricity at all times. “A lot of places are on generators or solar panels that aren’t going to be on all day or all night,” says Gordon. “The lights are getting better, but they’re not super-strong.” While she used to bring a flashlight on safari, she says she now just uses the one on her phone, but still packs a book light for reading at night. A headlamp works too, if you prefer, and we’ve recommended our favorite one here .

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Safari Luggage

Safari luggage designed for Africa, made for the world. Choose from our range of customisable, deconstruct-able, soft, squashable, dependable, and always safarified luggage for travel and every day. A safari essential designed for Africa, made for adventure and the everyday too.

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Safari Backpacks, Satchels & Small Bags Read our Safari Backpacks, Satchels & Small Bags Advice Guide

• You will need a smaller safari bag to take with you on all safari activities - whether a few hours or a few days - including game drive safaris, walking safaris, horse riding safaris, mountain biking safaris, boating safaris, fishing safaris, canoeing safaris, and mekoro (dugout) safaris.
• Into this smaller safari bag will go any number of safari essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, binoculars, waterproof jacket (assuming you are wearing your warm-layer safari jacket or fleece), a safari beanie, any books you want to take on safari with you, water bottle, perhaps your passport if you prefer to keep it with you - and any other personal effects you want to take with you on safari.
• The nature of your safari will determine which bag - or bags - you decide to take with you on your safari. For example, if you are only planning on going on game drives, then you will be fine to take any safari satchel, safari backpack, safari tote, or over-the-shoulder safari bag as you will just be walking with it from your room to the safari 4x4 and then placing it on the seat next to you. If you also want to do walks from the lodge (recommended), then you would need a safari satchel or safari backpack and, if you are on a proper walking safari, then you would need a safari satchel or safari backpack which you are happy to have over the shoulder or on your back for many kilometres or miles of walking.
• Your choice of smaller safari bag (or bags) could and should also double as your safari carry-on bag for flights to and from Africa. If you prefer a larger carry-on to carry some clothes, then take this bag in addition to your carry-on. Some brands of holdall/duffel luggage - such as the Mara&Meru™ Voyager range - also allow you to zip and lock the ideal safari satchel-backpack combination bag as an end pocket on to your main safari bag, which means that you simply unzip it when you get to your safari to use it as your smaller safari bag. That way you are able to check it into the aircraft hold for your international flight to Africa.

Number of smaller safari bags to pack for your safari: 1 x smaller safari bag per person.

The Rufiji Safari Explorer Satchel in Safari Tan

The rufiji safari explorer satchel in classic khaki green, rufiji™ black - the satchel in black, mara&meru™ 3-in-1 satchel, backpack, pocket (adjustable depth), mara&meru™ 4-in-1 camerabag, satchel, backpack, pocket in safari tan & leather, mara&meru™ selous satchel in safari tan, limited edition: mara&meru™ full leather satchel & pannier in brown, mara&meru™ canvas & leather 3-in-1 safari pannier bag in safari tan, safari holdalls & duffle bags read our safari holdalls & duffle bags advice guide.

• For your main large safari duffel or safari holdall, choose safari luggage which is soft and squashable and which has no frame. This is especially true for safari travel to Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania, and Kenya and the reason for this is rather a practical one. The majority of safari lodges and camps within these countries are accessible only by light aircraft. As a result, in order for your pilot to fit your luggage into the small, cramped hold, your luggage must not have hard sides, nor rigid frames or structure, and should rather be soft-sided so that the pilot is able to fit (squash) your bag into the plane. The same is true for some overland and expedition-style safaris where there will be limited space for luggage in the safari 4x4.
• Please check with the safari company you have booked with about luggage limitations for the internal flights on your safari, as the requirements may vary from safari to safari. Where luggage weight limitations are specified please note that - as the maximum take-off weight in any aircraft has to be strictly adhered to by pilots to maximise your safety on each flight - you may find that your pilot will not be able to take any luggage over the maximum allowed weight per passenger. In this instance, you may have to pay for your luggage to be flown separately.

Number of large, soft-sided safari bags to pack for your safari: 1 x large safari duffel or holdall bag per person.

The Rufiji™ Traveller Canvas Safari Duffle Bag in Safari Tan

The rufiji safari explorer ii - canvas & leather safari duffle bag in safari tan, mara&meru™ southern cross safari voyager iii duffle bag, the luggage protector, the luggage protector x-large (voyager suit bag & traveller duffels) in khaki tan, the luggage protector x-large (voyager suit bag & traveller duffels) in safari tan, mara&meru™ safari voyager iii duffle bag in safari tan, mara&meru™ safari voyager iii duffle bag with built-in suit bag in safari tan, safari totes & champagne coolers, mara&meru™ leather safari companion bag in sable brown, the sandstorm medium safari tote in mocca, safari toiletry bags for travel read our safari toiletry bags for travel advice guide.

• Most safari luggage does not have a built in area for a safari washbag - mind you, not many bags do - and so you should keep your toiletries separate to your clothes by using a safari washbag.
• If you prefer to travel with your own soap, then please select one of our washbags which comes with a wooden soap box so that you don't get soap on your toothbrush.

Number of safari washbags to pack for your safari: 1 x safari washbag per person.

The Rufiji Safari Explorer Travel Toiletry Bag in Safari Tan

Mara&meru™ canvas & leather selous travel toiletry bag in safari tan, mara&meru™ leather selous travel toiletry bag in brown, safari gifts under £50, the rufiji™ leather safari moneyclip in brown, safari pet feeders, woof-meow portable dog cat pet bowl bag (large) in safari tan, woof-meow portable dog cat pet bowl bag (small) in safari tan, safari weekenders & carry-ons read our safari weekenders & carry-ons advice guide.

• These weekender and carry-on bags are ideal for short trips away and for use every day. They may also be used for very short safaris and adventure travel.
• If you are looking for a bag which is suitable for both short and long trips then please look no further than our Voyager range . These bags all adjust from weekender sized bags to large duffels - simply by zipping on end pockets. You get to decide which version of the bag to take on your next adventure.
• A soft and squashable bag is a safari packing essential.

Number of weekender bags to pack for your short trips and safaris: x1

The Sandstorm Leather Odyssey Safari Bag in Tan

The sandstorm weekender in tan, safari locks & scales, tsa brass travel sentry, digital luggage scale, safari wallets read our safari wallets advice guide.

• Keeping all your travel documents, money and cards in a travel wallet makes good sense.
• While borders in African vary tremendously, they can be disorganised. The more disorganised the border the more organised you want to be.
• As always be savvy and keep some money and cards in another location just in case your travel wallet goes missing.

Number of travel wallets to pack: 1 per person.

Classic Safari Travel Wallet

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AN ENTIRE CONTINENT OF INSPIRATION

From the Masai Mara to Kruger National Park, one cannot possibly describe the eclectic experiences to be had wherever you are in Africa. So we won’t even try. Instead we took inspiration from the safari adventure for this collection that features the best of a classic Globe-Trotter while paying homage to the 1920s era of exploration.

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AN ENTIRE CONTINENT OF INSPIRATION From the Masai Mara to Kruger National Park, one cannot possibly describe the eclectic experiences to be had wherever you are in Africa. So we won’t even try. Instead we took inspiration from the safari adventure for this collection that features the best of a classic Globe-Trotter while paying homage to the 1920s era of exploration.

Our luxury safari luggage is available in iconic Ivory or Coffee Brown and accented with a natural leather trim designed to darken with age, developing a rich patina with every journey.

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Safari Packing List: Our in-depth guide what to bring on a safari

From clothes to camera gear & first aid kit

Many of you have been inquiring lately what we pack for a safari , which essentials to bring and what to leave at home. The main question is: What do you truly need on a safari? And how can you manage to abide by the 15-20kg bush plane luggage weight limit (and that’s the total weight – including your carry-on and personal items)!

So here’s our absolutely essential, proven-in-detail, fully explained safari packing list with everything you need on a safari plus all our tips what you really don’t need.

Disclaimer: This post is written by a woman , who often travels solo or with her husband and no kids. This packing list might look a bit different for a man or very different for a family with kids.

At the very end of this post you’ll find a FREE downloadable pdf packing list.

The clothes should be lightweight, durable and neutral coloured. And it’s all about layers!

Table of Contents

Safari packing list: Luggage

This is the first piece of advice: Unless you go on an ultra luxury safari without any weight or luggage limitations you should always bring luggage that works on bush planes , in open safari vehicles and on sandy paths in bush camps. So in essence: no hard case trolleys.

Instead it’s recommended to opt for duffle bags as they can easily be stowed – no matter if you travel by Mokoro boat or on a helicopter. As a bonus if they’re well made they have really durable zippers and close well so no sand and dust can get into your bag. My luggage usually consists of:

• 1 x North Face duffle bag large (weighing about 10kg when fully packed, check-in luggage on long haul flights)
• 1 x North Face duffle bag small (weighing about 5kg when fully packed, carry on luggage on long haul flights – this is mostly for my camera gear, which is stowed in separate camera inlets inside the duffle bag. Usually there’s some extra space in this bag for souvenirs…)
• 1 x small waterproof backpack (personal item, mostly for my travel documents and laptop)

Safari packing list: Clothes

It’s important to note a few things before we jump into the details of my garment packing list:

• It doesn’t matter if my safari is 5 days or 3 weeks – I would always pack the same amount of clothes.
• Camps and lodges in the bush offer complimentary laundry services for everything except for your delicates (exceptions apply, but generally this is the rule).
• This means you essentially need 2-3 sets of clothes, because laundry can sometimes take 2-3 days to return (they might be hand washed and dried outside in many camps in lack of washing machines).
• The only item where I pack supply for more days is underwear, although most camps offer laundry detergent and so you can always wash your delicates yourself by hand when in need.

My friend & travel buddy Kady is wearing our trusted Palladium boots here. And for cold mornings you should always bring a lightweight insulated jacket.

These are the garments i bring:.

• 1x lightweight insulated jacket (this is essential when travelling in the dry season = winter in many South African destinations, it gets cold at night!)
• 1x thin scarf (I use this to protect my neck from wind and sunburn)
• 1x thick scarf (this is a personal preference, but I love it and use it as pillow on planes and for very cold morning and evening game drives)
• 1x Long Cargo Pants (mine are relatively thin and are tapered at the ankles to avoid any insects to crawl in – this is only essential for walking safaris, not for game drives)
• 3x leggings (these are my go to “pants” on game drives – comfortable, easy to wear and wash, dry quickly. The only downside is that Tse Tse flies can bite you through those, but they literally bite through down jackets as well…)
• 2x long sleeve linen shirts (I wear these over sleeveless tops on warm days and just around camp for lunch etc.)
• 5x pairs of socks (high enough so you can put them over your tapered long pants to avoid ants to crawl into your pants)
• 2x long sleeve wool under layers (I usually bring quick dry wool long sleeves on winter safaris to layer in the mornings and evenings)
• 2x short sleeve / sleeveless T-Shirts
• 1x pair of Sunglasses
• 2x hooded sweaters (one jersey and one cashmere hooded sweater – layered over the long sleeve shirts these are perfect for the chilly mornings and the hoodie helps me spare packing a wool beanie)
• 7x underwear
• 2x pyjamas (again, it gets cold at night and if you sleep in a tent or even a regular safari camp you’ll want to wear a pyjama. I bring 2, so one can be washed once in a while.)
• 1x pair of Palladium ankle high light linen boots (these are the perfect safari shoes for me. I wear them on cold days, for walking safaris, hiking, etc. – everywhere except for the rainforest)
• Alternatively: 1x pair of waterproof ankle high hiking boots (if I go on safari in Central Africa – think gorilla or chimp trekking and moist rainforest conditions)
• 1x pair of Birkenstock sandals (I use the Arizona Eva model, which is 100% plastic and therefore can be easily washed and doubles as my showering and outdoor bathroom shoes)
• 1x safari hat with a wide brim (to protect your face and neck – especially for boat or canoe safaris!)
• 1x basecap (for walking safaris)
• Sometimes: 1x swimsuit (if I check into a lodge with a pool or combine my safari with a beach stay)

During the days it usually gets warm enough for linen shirts and t-shirts – even in winter.

Layering is essential on a safari – when we left in the morning we needed a jacket, on the plane we used them as pillows and when we landed it was warm enough for t-shirts and linen shirts., safari packing list: toiletries.

A short disclaimer here: I generally wear very little to no make-up, so this might read almost like a men’s toiletry bag. Of course you can add a few items if you prefer to have some glam in the bush . My experience is: You’ll be comfortable with less and less every day 🙂

Also it’s important to know that there’s countries that forbid the use of single use plastics (so think about this when you pack cotton swabs, floss picks, contact lenses, etc.). Everything that is packaged in single use plastics should be avoided if possible. I’ve listed a few alternative products below.

What’s in my safari toiletry bag:

• Sunscreen with SPF50 (try to bring environmentally friendly products, as your waste water will remain in the bush)
• Face Cleanser (this is one of my luxury products, but I can’t go to sleep without a proper face clean, even in the bush)
• Antioxidant (I’m trying to avoid sun damage to my facial skin, so this is also an essential for my face care routine)
• Tooth Brush (I even bring my electrical tooth brush, but that’s a very personal choice – since I travel so much I don’t want to compromise on my routine here)
• Deodorant (without perfume! You should never wear perfume on a safari, as animals have a very sensitive sense of smell and any unnatural scent can deter wildlife.)
• Tampons or your preferred feminine hygiene product (again: these will remain in the trash in the bush camps, so I use biodegradable organic cotton products. Personally I wouldn’t bring a menstrual cup on a safari as access to fresh water might be limited during the day when you’re out in the field, etc.)
• Biodegradable (!) dental floss (I use floss picks made from bamboo)
• Reusable ear swabs (I bought a washable one, that I use on safaris – it’s not perfect, but better than creating unnecessary waste.)

Toiletries that you don’t need to bring:

• Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion! All of these are provided in the camps (and they will make sure the products are biodegradable and do not damage the soil or create toxic waste water).
• Towels: Camps and lodges always provide fresh towels. Unless you’ll go camping individually or stay in rooftop tents etc., then I would recommend quick dry travel towels.

Safari packing list: Camera & Equipment

This is a special section for the photography enthusiasts among you. As a professional travel photographer I bring quite an extensive amount of equipment, but I still bring a lot less than the “real” wildlife photographers. Their luggage almost exclusively consists of camera equipment.

The main difference is that I rely mostly on zoom lenses , to keep the camera equipment down to a minimum. Wildlife photographers often bring prime lenses and then you need a lot more than me 🙂

Here’s what I bring to take photos and videos (and work):

• Nikon Z8 (my primary camera)
• Nikon Z6II (my secondary camera)
• NIKKOR Z 100-400mm 4.5-5.6 lens (for wildlife shots)
• NIKKOR Z 24-70mm 2.8 lens (for landscapes, portraits, travel shots)
• 5x camera batteries (some days you might not be able to charge. Remember many safari camps don’t have power outlets in the rooms, but only at the main tent – so it’s always a bit of logistics to charge equipment.)
• 3x extra memory cards (it gets very technical here, but I bring one very fast ultra professional card for each camera with 512GB and the extra cards are all smaller. On my last safari I shot 500GB worth of photos and videos in a few days.)
• 3x 1TB SSD hard drives (this is to make sure I can create duplicate back-ups during the trip.)
• 2x camera battery charger (to charge 2 batteries at once)
• Laptop + charger (this is only necessary for my photo back-ups and editing sessions. If I weren’t a photographer I would probably leave my laptop at home on a safari, there’s often no internet anyways.)
• Mobile phone + 2 charger cables (1x regular cable for regular power outlets and 1x “old” USB cable for planes and safari vehicles)
• 1x power adapter (these are heavy and bulky, so you can also check with the camps you’re staying at if they provide adapters or if – like in Zambia – they had multiple different types of sockets for all sorts of chargers.)
• 1x multi-outlet power strip (I still bring one of those with at least 3 sockets, so I can charge more devices if there’s only one outlet available)
• 1x battery pack (this is to charge my phone or laptop when there’s no power available for whatever reason – we had fly-camps that relied 100% on solar and then 3 overcast days = no power. So it’s the ultimate backup, but only necessary, because I do need to work on these trips.)

Safari packing list: First-aid kit

This is a delicate one, as I’m no medical expert, so please don’t take this list and rely on it 100%, but consult your doctor before your trip. Also each location within Africa has different preconditions when it comes to tropical diseases, etc. – so these recommendations are to be taken with caution.

• Malaria medication (Malarone or similar. Please consult your doctor about the options when it comes to standby vs. prophylactic intake of malaria medication.)
• Clinical thermometer
• Antihistamine (I sometimes react to insect bites)
• Wound Disinfection
• Blister Pads (if you go on many walking safaris)
• Gauze bandages
• Disinfectant Spray

What I didn’t pack on my last trip was any regular flu medication and of course I caught a cold… my travel buddy Kady luckily had pastils against sore throat, nose spray and the likes. So you might want to add these to your list!

What you you don’t need to bring:

• Mosquito repellent (with a high DEET content)
• Insect repellants are usually provided by each camp. Often they even have two different types – one for your skin and one for your clothes. Also they provide the local products, that often work much better than what you can bring from your home country.

Safari packing list: Miscellaneous

Lastly here are few miscalleaneous items that are quite essential for any trip.

• Wallet with credit card, debit card, insurance card, etc.
• US Dollars (even when travelling from Europe I usually exchange US dollars ahead of the trip as those are accepted in every country. Make sure the bills are not torn or old or anything scribbled on them. Locals will only accept dollar notes in good condition as otherwise the banks will not exchange to their local currency. You can read more about my most important money tips for a safari here .)
• Vaccination card (you might have to provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination or a COVID vaccination – make sure to check the requirements for the destination you’re visiting).

What you you may or may not need to bring:

• Binoculars: I personally never bring binoculars, because I always look through the viewfinder of my camera with the long tele zoom lens instead. In many camps they also provide binoculars, either one pair per game drive vehicle or in more luxurious lodges there’s even a pair waiting for each guest in the room.
• Reusable water bottles: Even in more rustic fly camps these will be provided for the duration of the stay, but if you want to make sure to also have a water bottle ready for travel days, on airports, etc. you can bring your own.

• Headlamp: Usually camps provide flashlights or lanterns for nightly toilet visits or trips to the main tent. In many camps you’re not allowed to walk outside of your tent alone at night (because they’re unfenced and wildlife will pass through). So a team member will always be there with a flashlight.
• Gators: I brought gators to Rwanda for the chimp trekking and used them once during a 2 week trip. So unless you plan on going jungle trekking regularly I think those are not really necessary.

If this blogpost was helpful, make sure to also check our guide for safari beginners !

Download your free safari packing list pdf here.

Or pin and save this post for later:

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The 9 Best Expandable Luggage Pieces of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Pack heavy or light with these suitcases that give you more room to spare.

In This Article

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• Our top picks

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• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

If you tend to overpack for trips or like to have extra luggage space for souvenirs and shopping hauls you’ve picked up along the way, expandable luggage might be just the thing. These carry-ons, checked suitcases, and weekender bags unzip to extend the depth by a couple of inches and increase the overall capacity.

We tested hundreds of luggage pieces, a decent portion of which are expandable, to see which are actually worth buying. Each suitcase and bag was tested in our New York City lab and used on multiple trips for at least six months. We pull year-round insights from luggage tests and evaluate each piece based on capacity, organization, maneuverability, durability, and overall value.

Best Overall

Away the carry-on flex.

• Organization 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5
• Capacity 5 /5

It’s conveniently compact but unzips to extend the depth by over two inches.

The lighter colors may show scuffs more easily.

Away's Carry-on Flex suitcase is conveniently compact, easily fitting into an airplane overhead bin, and you can unzip it to expand the depth by two and a quarter inches. We fit everything on our packing list without a fuss and had room to spare. Inside are two main compartments: a mesh one with zippered closure and the other with a compression panel and straps, plus a zippered pouch. All zippers run smoothly without snagging. The suitcase is also easy to open and close (even when stuffed full) and lift overhead, thanks to the lightweight design.

We found the Carry-on Flex a breeze to maneuver. The handle worked well, the weight felt evenly distributed, and it rolled effortlessly over carpet, hard floor, and tile. This suitcase also proved durable. Nothing broke when we shoved it off a counter and whacked it with a baseball bat. It did sustain a few scuffs, though, so you might want to choose a darker color to conceal them better.

Considering the high-quality design, compact yet spacious capacity, smooth-gliding spinner wheels, and organizational features, we think the price is fair.

The Details: 21.7 x 13.7 x 9 inches (unexpanded), 21.7 x 13.7 x 11.25 inches (expanded) | 8.9 pounds | 39.8 liters (unexpanded), 46.7 liters (expanded) | Polycarbonate

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Lightweight

Delsey paris hardside expandable luggage with spinner wheels.

• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4 /5
• Durability 4.7 /5

At 5.3 pounds, this carry-on is easy to lift and compact while still fitting a substantial amount of clothes.

It may be prone to dents, and the expander only adds two centimeters to the depth.

Carry-ons can range from about four to 13 pounds. At just over five pounds, the Delsey Clavel Spinner is the best lightweight option we tested. While this hardside spinner suitcase looks pretty small, it can hold a significant amount of clothes even without expanding it. The expander feature adds two centimeters to the depth. This is a little less than most (which are typically about two inches), but the extra space can go a long way.

This carry-on has a sturdy thermoplastic shell that, for the most part, held up well during our tests. However, swinging a bat at it did cause minor dents. The Clavel maneuvers nicely on different surfaces, even over bumps and cracks, but we wish the handle was a bit longer.

In the end, we think the price is warranted and would recommend this suitcase to those looking for a compact, easy-to-lift carry-on for a short getaway .

The Details: 21.75 x 13.75 x 9.75 inches (unexpanded), 21.75 x 13.75 x 10.5 inches inches (expanded) | 5.3 pounds | 43 liters | Polypropylene

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Checked

Béis large check-in roller.

• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

This suitcase has lots of organizational features, an enormous capacity, and an expander that adds two inches of depth.

Though it's generally durable, the exterior may develop scuffs.

With a whopping 112-liter capacity, this Béis suitcase is among the biggest we tested. We had enough room to fit twice the stuff on our packing list — and this is without the expander feature that gives you an extra two inches of depth. Besides an enormous capacity, the Large Check-in Roller has zippered compartments, ample internal pockets, a removable compression panel, compression straps, and a laundry bag for dirty clothes.

This checked suitcase is also surprisingly lightweight for how massive it is. After packing it full, we could grab it from a baggage carousel and lift it into a car trunk without a struggle. What's more, the cushioned handle and 360-degree spinner wheels make pushing and pulling very comfortable. Although this bag didn't sustain any scratches or dents from our durability tests, it does scuff easily. That said, superficial marks can be wiped off with a damp cloth as needed, and the darker colors will conceal them better than the lighter hues.

Considering the enormous size and organizational features, we think the price is warranted.

The Details: 31.3 x 19.6 x 12.6 inches (unexpanded), 31.3 x 19.6 x 14.6 inches (expanded) | 11.5 pounds | 112 liters | Polycarbonate

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Best Carry-on

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

• Durability 5 /5

This impressive carry-on has a generous capacity, a durable shell, and smooth-gliding spinner wheels.

It doesn't have a removable bag or designated section for dirty clothes.

Of all the carry-on luggage we tested, Samsonite's Freeform Spinner is our favorite. This thoughtfully designed suitcase has two separate compartments and several interior pockets, plus it expands to add two inches to the depth. We fit enough outfits, shoes, outerwear, and toiletries for a four-day trip without having to use the expander. It would be nice if there was a removable laundry bag or separate section for dirty clothes, but we were otherwise satisfied with the organizational features.

This carry-on maneuvers easily on two or four wheels, rolling smoothly over carpet, hard floors, and concrete. We also appreciate that the telescoping handle extends and locks with the press of a button. Hitting it with a bat and shoving it off a table left virtually no damage. And after using this bag regularly for six months, there were no signs of wear and tear. Beyond that, we love the chic, minimalist aesthetic of the Freeform, which comes in a handful of neutral colors and statement hues.

Considering the durable construction, generous capacity, and reasonable price tag, we think this suitcase is an excellent choice for frequent fliers looking for a high-quality carry-on.

The Details: 23 x 15 x 10 inches (unexpanded), 23 x 15 x 12 inches (expanded) | 5.6 pounds | Polypropylene

Travelpro Hardside Luggage Set

• Capacity 4.9 /5
• Design 4.5 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

These expandable suitcases are remarkably spacious, durable, easy to maneuver, and backed by a lifetime warranty.

You may not save money by buying the suitcases as a set rather than individually.

Travelpro's Platinum Elite luggage line is among the best we tested. This two-piece bundle comes with a hardside checked bag and a matching carry-on, each with spacious capacities that expand by two inches. (If you need more luggage, you can add the Medium Check-in Spinner or the Compact Carry-on .) We fit all items on our list with room to spare and appreciated how the zippered panels, cross straps, and various pockets helped with packing.

The suitcases showed a few superficial marks after being whacked with a bat and shoved off a counter, but there were no dents or scratches. When packed full, we thought the carry-on was a little easier to maneuver on two wheels than four, but other than that, the Platinum Elite collection rolls like a champ.

Just a heads up, purchasing the suitcases as a set may not be more affordable than buying them separately. We still think the price is reasonable, especially considering the lifetime warranty.

The Details: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches (carry-on unexpanded), 23 x 14.5 x 11.5 inches (carry-on expanded), 30 x 18 x 13.5 inches (checked unexpanded), 30 x 18 x 15.5 inches (checked expanded) | 8.1 pounds (carry-on), 12.3 pounds (checked) | 45 liters (carry-on), 108 liters (checked) | Polycarbonate

Best Splurge

Tumi alpha medium trip expandable 4 wheeled packing case.

The high-end, exceptionally durable, and incredibly spacious design expands by more than two inches and has exterior pockets that extend outward.

It's relatively heavy when empty.

The Tumi Alpha Packing Case is undoubtedly worth the price tag. We found the medium checked size spacious, without being too large or awkward to handle. Everything on our packing list fit into just one of the compartments, and the zippered expander adds two and a half inches of depth. There are also multiple front pockets that extend outward, allowing you to fit even more stuff and easily access items when the main compartments are full. The zippers seemed to be very high-quality too.

At 17.6 pounds, this suitcase is relatively heavy when empty, but we didn't find it hard to lift compared to lighter bags. The handle locked confidently, and the 360-degree caster wheels rolled smoothly and turned on a dime. It was ever-so-slightly more cumbersome on carpet, though we wouldn't say it was difficult to maneuver at all. The quality of the Alpha Packing Case is undeniable. It showed resistance to wear and tear during our durability test and is backed by a five-year warranty.

If you're willing to invest in an upscale design and want a suitcase big enough for two people's belongings or to fit purchases from your trips, this suitcase is a stellar choice.

The Details: 29 x 20 x 13 inches (unexpanded), 29 x 20 x 15.5 inches (expanded) | 17.6 pounds | 108 liters | Ballistic nylon

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best Budget

Swisstech softside luggage.

This sizable checked bag has lots of organizational features, including various interior and exterior pockets, and it rolls smoothly on all surfaces.

It's not the most stylish but stands out for practicality.

On a budget? We recommend the SwissTech Executive Upright Suitcase. This large checked bag is notably spacious, with a zippered compartment, compression straps, multiple pockets inside and out, and a removable pouch to keep your things organized. Unzipping the expander adds two inches of extra depth and a lot more packing space.

This suitcase is durable, sustaining almost no visible damage from our bat test. There was just one small smudge on the exterior, which wiped off. It rolled smoothly over carpets and hard flooring and even did pretty well when we pulled it over gravel. The simple, softside design isn't the most fashion-forward — but we wouldn't hesitate to bring it on a trip.

If you're looking for an affordable suitcase with an expander and practical features, you really can't go wrong.

The Details: 29 x 19 x 10.5 inches (unexpanded), 29 x 19 x 12.5 inches (expanded) | 9.1 pounds | 1,680-denier textile

Best Softside

Briggs & riley expandable spinner.

Briggs & Riley

The suitcase feels all-around well made, from the dent-proof exterior to the easy-gliding wheels and sturdy handle.

We wish the built-in garment bag was more intuitive.

The Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Spinner is made of soft yet sturdy ballistic nylon that looks sleek without compromising durability. With impact-resistant corners, it withstood several bat hits and falls from a table. The textile exterior was also easy to wipe clean. We love this suitcase's self-repairing YKK zippers, which actually get smoother over time. Not only that, but the sturdy aluminum handle makes it a piece of cake to maneuver over smooth and bumpy surfaces.

We appreciate the interior and exterior pockets and expandable main compartment. The only real drawback is that the built-in folding garment bag isn't very intuitive. Still, we like that this feature stays tucked away if you choose not to use it.

If you can swing the price, you might consider investing in this well-made, luxury piece of luggage — and the lifetime guarantee can give you peace of mind about your purchase.

The Details: 26 x 18 x 12 inches (unexpanded) | 13.3 pounds | 80 liters (unexpanded), 97 liters (expanded) | Ballistic nylon

Best Weekender

Longchamp le pliage expandable travel bag.

• Portability 5 /5

The Le Pliage Bag is lightweight and comfortable to carry, with a seemingly never-ending capacity.

It doesn't have many organizational features.

Longchamp's Le Pliage Travel Bag is the best expandable weekender we tested. With a seemingly never-ending capacity, this carrier effortlessly fit everything on our four-day packing list with room to spare. The expander is easy to use — just unzip the middle to increase the size by more than half. We also like how lightweight it is: less than two pounds when empty.

This bag's biggest downside is the lack of organizational features. It has two small interior pockets big enough for things like a phone, passport, AirPods, or lip balm, but that's it. Depending on your travel plans, you might want to use packing cubes. What makes up for it is the fact that the Le Pliage is made of smooth, durable canvas that repels stains and wipes clean as needed. You can carry it with the two grab handles or the adjustable shoulder strap, which we found comfortable. 

Seeing as Longchamp bags last for years and stand up to wear and tear, we think the price tag is warranted.

The Details: 17.7 x 13.8 x 9.1 inches (unexpanded) | 1.6 pounds | 30 liters (unexpanded), 50 liters (expanded) | Recycled polyamide canvas

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

The Travel + Leisure team has tested hundreds of luggage pieces both in our New York City lab and in real-life settings, including a wide range of expandable carry-ons, checked bags, weekenders, and underseat bags. We created an airplane set in the lab to simulate the travel experience. Our comprehensive tests include hitting the luggage with a baseball bat, shoving it off a table, packing it with enough belongings for a trip based on the size, pushing and pulling over different flooring materials and terrains, lifting into a makeshift overhead bin, and placing smaller ones under a seat.

Each piece of luggage was evaluated based on capacity (with and without the expanders), organization, maneuverability, durability, and overall value. Those with the highest scores are featured here.

Tips for Buying Expandable Luggage

Pay attention to the materials.

Luggage can have a hard shell (often made of polycarbonate or aluminum) or a textile exterior, such as ripstop or ballistic nylon. Hardside suitcases can prevent your belongings from getting crushed, but the softside variety can be more flexible and easy to zip closed when packed to the brim. Both are generally easy to wipe clean, though hard shells can be more prone to scuffs.

Besides the exterior material, pay attention to the zippers. They should be strong, smooth, and reliable, especially with an expandable suitcase that unzips to increase the depth.

Check your airline's carry-on size requirements

Carry-on rules and requirements vary, so check your airline's size limit before your trip. The cap for overhead bins on many domestic flights is 24 x 16 x 10 inches, but some airlines are more strict and may set the limit to 22 x 14 x 9 inches. For international flights, carry-ons usually can't be taller/longer than 21 inches.

With this in mind, some carry-on suitcases won't fit when expanded. You may need to check your bag both ways or potentially just on your return flight if you use the expander to fit souvenirs from your trip.

Consider your airline's checked bag policy

While an expandable suitcase will allow you to fit more stuff, you'll want to be conscious of the weight. Filling it to the brim will not only make it heavier and potentially harder to maneuver but also may exceed the airline's weight limit for checked luggage. In many cases, you'll have to pay extra (on top of the standard checked baggage fee) if you go over 50 pounds.

If you're willing to pay the additional fee, the limit may be 80 to 100 pounds. Also, the maximum size for checked bags is often 60 linear inches (meaning the total length, width, and depth). But again, this varies among airlines, so check the rules before heading to the airport.

Unzipping the expander typically adds two inches to the depth of a suitcase, but it can be slightly more or less. While this may not seem like much, it means you can fit another two-inch layer of clothes into the main compartment — potentially more, depending on the material and if there are any compression features.

Expandable hardside suitcases have rigid, crush-resistant exteriors that help protect what's inside (and potentially prevent wrinkles ). They're usually easy to wipe clean, though lighter colors can show more scuffs. Softside luggage, on the other hand, is sometimes lighter-weight and often just as durable. Additionally, a textile suitcase can be easier to zip closed when packed full, which can be good for overpackers . Both can be great options, so it really comes down to personal preference.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L contributors are travel and shopping experts with a keen understanding of today's luggage offerings. For this story, freelance commerce writer Theresa Holland pored over our testing insights, combed through product pages, read the fine print for warranties, and evaluated price ranges to create a comprehensive roundup of the best expandable luggage.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Watch CBS News

The best Rimowa luggage in 2024

By Leah Groth , Kaylyn McKenna

Updated on: April 24, 2024 / 3:28 PM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

If your plans for the spring and summer include traveling, it might be time to upgrade your luggage. If you can afford it, we think you should consider buying Rimowa.

Rimowa luggage isn't cheap, but the brand does make beautiful and durable  luggage . Consider upgrading your 2024 travels by splurging on one of their luxury suitcases -- like one of these top picks. It's an investment in your future travels backed by a lifetime warranty . 

But choosing the right Rimowa luggage can be tricky. The brand has spawned several popular luggage collections and options, and deciding which one to purchase can be a bit overwhelming. To help, the CBS Essentials luggage experts have broken down the best options for different uses, budgets and design preferences. Here's what you need to know about Rimowa and its most popular lines of polycarbonate and  aluminum luggage .

We rounded up the top Rimowa aluminum, polycarbonate and hybrid suitcases of 2024, some of which we included in our best luggage of 2024 roundup. 

• The luggage that put Rimowa on the map : Rimowa Original
• The most premium Rimowa luggage : Rimowa Classic  
• The best partial-aluminum Rimowa luggage : Rimowa Hybrid

The best polycarbonate Rimowa luggage: Rimowa Essential

• The most affordable Rimowa luggage : Rimowa Essential Lite
• The most versatile Rimowa carry-on : Rimowa Essential Sleeve

Keep reading to learn more about our top picks. Or, shop all of Rimowa's luggage options with the button below.

The luggage that put Rimowa on the map: Rimowa Original

The Rimowa Original is one of the most iconic suitcases of all time. Engineered in Germany out of top-of-the-line aluminum, the grooved suitcase is equipped with everything you need for travel. 

Features include TSA-approved locks, a flex divider for organized packing, a telescopic handle and a smooth, multi-wheel system. While the surprisingly lightweight suitcase (the smallest carry-on weighs 9.3 pounds) might be a splurge, consider it an investment in a long-term travel buddy. 

Available in three carry-on sizes, two check-ins and a large trunk version in titanium, silver and black.

Why we like the Rimowa Original:

• Its aluminum construction protects your belongings much better than soft-sided or polycarbonate luggage.
• Its sleek metallic material gives these luggage pieces a trendy, high-end look.
• Available in four colors.

The most premium Rimowa luggage: Rimowa Classic

The Rimowa classic looks very similar to the Original but with a few tweaks. The primary difference is that the handles are wrapped in premium leather. Other features, including the TSA-approved locks and spinner wheels, skew a little more retro. 

The Rimowa Classic comes in silver and black and in three carry-on sizes, two check-ins and a trunk size as well. 

Why we like the Rimowa Classic:

• It features a flex divider to keep items separated and organized during travel.
• The Rimowa Classic's high-end multi-wheel system offers easy maneuverability.
• It features a premium leather handle with an ergonomic grip and easy handle height adjustment.

The best hybrid partial-aluminum Rimowa luggage: Rimowa Hybrid

Engineered of both aluminum-magnesium alloy and lightweight polycarbonate, this cleverly crafted suitcase offers the trademark grooved aluminum look, minus a pound and a few hundred dollars. 

The smallest Rimowa Hybrid carry-on weighs 8.2 pounds and comes in a few color options (matte blue, matte black and a glossy white) and two carry-on and check-in sizes. 

Why we like the Rimowa Hybrid:

• It's a great compromise between RImowa's luxurious aluminum luggage options and the brand's more lightweight polycarbonate luggage.
• The Hybrid line is more affordable than Rimowa's fully aluminum luggage.
• Rimowa Hybrid luggage features telescopic handles and TSA-approved locks .

The first polycarbonate suitcase to hit the market in 2000, the Rimowa Essential remains one of the brand's best-selling collections. 

Available in a bunch of glossy and matte color options in a carry-on, check-in and trunk version, the sleek suitcase comes equipped with a TSA-approved lock, telescopic handle and smooth and multi-wheel system. It weighs just 7.1 pounds. 

Why we like the Rimowa Essential:

• It's more lightweight than Rimowa's aluminum and hybrid luggage options.
• It's available in a wider range of colors than many of the aluminum pieces.
• Rimowa Essential luggage has an excellent interior organization system.

The most affordable Rimowa luggage: Rimowa Essential Lite

If the Rimowa Essential isn't light enough, consider getting the lightest Rimowa suitcase, the Essential Lite. It weighs 30% less and costs a few hundred dollars less as well.

It comes in glossy black or green and in three carry-on and one checked size. The smallest weighs just 4.6 pounds.

Why we like the Rimowa Essential Lite:

• It's the most lightweight, full-size luggage option from Rimowa.
• Rimowa Essential Lite luggage features a specially engineered T-bar handle with three-stage adjustment for maximum comfort and maneuverability.
• It has a mesh interior divider and a zippered pocket for storage.

The most versatile Rimowa carry-on: Rimowa Essential Sleeve

The Essential Sleeve is a carry-on collection designed for the tech-savvy traveler. Think of the smallest option, the Compact, as a wheeled briefcase that transforms into an overnight bag, perfect for daily commuters and short trips. 

Stash your computer and electronics in the external and interior laptop compartments. Remove the interior accordion to transform the briefcase into a carry-on for personal items and clothing. Larger sizes offer more interior space and are equipped with laptop compartments, making them a better option for traveling for more than a night or two. 

Why we like the Rimowa Essential Sleeve:

• It's an ideal option for those who tend to go on shorter trips.
• These suitcases will protect your laptop during travel.
• The suitcases feature compression straps, a removable accordion organizer and a convenient front pocket.

What's special about Rimowa luggage?

Rimowa pioneered the aluminum luggage trend, introducing them to the market in the 1930s. The company unveiled the very first polycarbonate suitcase in 2000, eventually adding a hybrid of the two materials to its collection. All of Rimowa's designs feature its trademark grooves, inspired by the first all-metal airplane. 

Aside from its quality materials and construction, one of the greatest benefits of buying a piece of Rimowa luggage is peace of mind. The brand recently added a lifetime guarantee on all new suitcases, covering all functional aspects (but excluding wear and tear). Rimowa also offers in-store repairs and even in-hotel repairs at participating international locations. 

Rimowa suitcases come in a lot of shapes and sizes, materials and colors. Size and color combinations vary per collection, but most come in a few cabin (carry-on) and  checked luggage options . There is also a trunk, an extra large piece of luggage designed for trips lasting two weeks or more. 

Why is Rimowa luggage expensive?

Why do Rimowa suitcases cost so much more than the competition? Engineered in Germany and primarily manufactured in a factory outside of Toronto, the brand prides itself on using only the finest materials. 

Rimowa recently opened up their Toronto, Canada factory, giving CBS Essentials an inside look into how each piece of their luxury luggage collection is assembled. Each piece takes over two hours to make from start to finish. While most of the components are machine-made, the bags require human hands to carefully assemble them. After assembly, each Rimowa individually tests every piece of luggage to ensure quality control.

For aluminum suitcases, Rimowa uses a high-grade aluminum-magnesium alloy metal. This material is so durable that pieces of Rimowa luggage have survived everything from plane crashes to tornados with barely a dent.

Rimowa polycarbonate luggage, meanwhile, uses the highest grade, high-grade pure poly. If you bend a piece of Rimowa polycarbonate, it immediately bounces back and holds its form without cracking or denting. 

Rimowa's bags also come equipped with finely tuned components, including patented multi-wheel spinners, which make rolling through the airport or cobblestone streets a breeze. Handles are engineered to work in unison with the wheels.

Returns are accepted within 30 days of receiving the merchandise for full reimbursement or exchange, provided the returned item is complete, unused and undamaged (except where indicated for certain special promotions).

What are the best Rimowa alternatives?

Rimowa is one of the most expensive luggage brands, with prices that will bust many people's budgets. The good news is that there are plenty of Rimowa alternatives available from other brands with a similar look and construction -- and a much lower price point. Check out our past coverage of the best Rimowa alternatives to see if a look-alike is right for you.

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