safari shopping list

23 Top Safari Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Many people view an African safari as the ultimate “bucket list” travel destination—and for good reason! There is a particular enchantment about the open savannah, largely untouched by civilization and inhabited by the most stunning creatures. It is something that has to be experienced to be truly understood.

For most people, the prospect of going on a safari is both exhilarating and intimidating. That’s why I’ve put together this Safari packing list and a section on what to wear on a safari . There’s also helpful information on what NOT to bring, and answers to FAQs. Wherever you are going on a safari, these must-haves are sure to have you covered for just about any situation you might encounter.

What to Pack for a Safari – 23 Essentials

1. neck wallet.

Keep important documents safe with a neck wallet. As you experience long travel days and inevitably get exhausted, it’s important to keep your passports in one place. This organizer can be worn around your neck to minimize the risk of pickpocketing or losing something essential. It can hold passports, phones, credit cards, and anything else you wouldn’t want to risk losing. It even has RFID-blocking material to stop digital thieves from scanning your credit cards.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Insect Repellent Wristbands

Since most safaris will be in Africa, you’ll want to protect your family from regional mosquito-born illnesses, including Zika, Chikungunya, Dengue Fever, malaria, and West Nile. Instead of being under attack from annoying and potentially harmful bug bites, use mosquito repellent to stay ahead of these pests. We like the wearable option instead of respraying toxic fumes all day.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Many countries in Africa censor the Internet. A good VPN can help prevent your connection from being blocked. Additionally, a VPN makes it extremely difficult for hackers to access your information or steal your private data. Cybercrime is up by a huge percentage in recent years, with over 100,000 attacks in 2023 in South Africa alone.

Since a great deal of your travel time might be spent putting in credit card information and flight details – not to mention passport ID or social security numbers – having a secure connection is critical. NordVPN is our go-to because they are affordable and will protect you with one click.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Not only is it uncertain that your hotel will provide a towel, but it may not be up to your standards of hygiene. In case you have dirty towels (or no towels) bring along your own for the journey. This one is great for hiking since it’s not big and fluffy like hotel towels. It also dries 10x faster than cotton as a more practical microfiber material. We find tons of uses for it along the way!

5. Binoculars with Phone Adapter

Africa boasts some of the most majestic scenery that planet Earth has to offer, not to mention its most mysterious creatures. One of the most essential items on your list, after investing so much to get here, is being able to take in the sights clearly. These are high-quality so you can get epic views but still maintain a safe distance. These even have an adapter so you can plug them into your phone for views and live-action screenshots.

6. Universal Power Adapter

You will likely be using major cities as the jumping-off point for your safari, and you will want a power adapter to suit these destinations. In terms of the safari itself, many people opt for glamping or camp resort experiences, and these sites usually offer electrical power as well. Come prepared with a universal power adapter that is suitable for anywhere you go. This one works in 100+ popular countries and comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.

(Note: If you’re headed to southern Africa, you’ll want to bring a South Africa-specific adapter as well).

7. Travel Insurance for a Safari

Accidents do happen and can be even more common when venturing far from home. Traveling for a safari is not cheap anyway, so why wouldn’t you pay a small amount extra to protect your travel investment? The last thing you want is to pay out-of-pocket for international medical bills, expensive medivacs, lost luggage, or flight cancelations. Being that your domestic provider generally will not cover you overseas (Medicare and Medicaid in particular), you have to protect yourself from bills that would be difficult to recover from.

Faye is our favorite travel provider because they make the process a breeze through their mobile app. It’s probably one of the cheapest aspects of your trip and well worth it for the peace of mind alone! Faye even covers entire trip cancelation, which is very rare for an affordable provider.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

8. Cooling Towel

One thing there’s no shortage of on a safari – is HEAT! The open savannah doesn’t offer air conditioning, but cooling towels are just about the next best thing. Simply by adding water, this magical towel drops to nearly 30-degrees colder than the outside temperature. It’s such a sweet relief on a hot day, and we wouldn’t travel anywhere warm without these. If the effects start to minimize, just add more water and you’re good to go!

9. High-Quality Filtered Water Bottle

Do not drink the local tap water. It is critical to avoid drinking unsafe water in Africa and many other less-developed areas as well. While many resorts and safari camps offer bottled water, it is best to make sure you have a consistent source of safe drinking water to stay hydrated in the severe heat. This Grayl option is worth the price-tag since it’s such undeniable quality! It will protect you from harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, microplastics, sediment, chlorine, pesticides, and more.

10. Portable Universal Charger

If you are going to be away from electrical outlets for a while, you will need a universal charger to keep your electronic devices fully charged. There are not generally electricity grids in the middle of the savannah, so use this charger to stay on-the-go. It has multiple USB ports so you can charge your devices quickly and efficiently.

11. Motion Sickness Relief

If you’re prone to any motion sickness, the safari land cruisers and game-viewing vehicles can be very bumpy! Use these patches to stay ahead of any nausea. They’re all natural and make a big difference in your comfort level for this exhilarating part of your trip! We also use them on boat rides, driving on windy roads, at amusement parks, and more.

12. Windproof Travel Umbrella

During the summer months especially, rain is common and you’ll want to come prepared with a lightweight umbrella. It’s also brilliant to have for shade protection and just getting out of the sun for a bit on a long day of animal watching! This one is our favorite because it’s good quality and weighs only one pound.

13. Deodorant Wipes

When you are on a safari, it’s not always feasible to take a shower right when you need one. Deodorant wipes are the next best thing. These are refreshing and cooling with scents like mint and cucumber. They cleanse away sweat, dirt, and odors so you can enjoy long days without feeling sticky.

14. Paracord Bracelet

When you are trekking into the middle of the great outdoors, it’s always wise to have a few tools on hand. A paracord bracelet blends style and practicality, providing a few essential tools such as a flint fire starter, emergency whistle, and a compass.

15. Travel Backpack

Safaris often involve side trips, whether that side trip is an extended hot air balloon ride or a jeep drive to catch a glimpse of the Serengeti’s wildebeest migration. Make sure you bring a travel backpack that will carry everything you need for the day (like your phones, water bottles, neck wallet, umbrella, etc).

16. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

We’ve sadly had something stolen out of our checked luggage. Now, anytime our bags are going to be out of sight or exposed to areas with petty theft – we bring these locks. They can be attached to your suitcase, backpack, or lockers in public areas. They’re also TSA-approved, so security won’t give you any fuss over securing your bags.

17. Jet Lag Relief

They say that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Well, a journey to Africa often begins with what feels like a thousand layovers! Jet lag pills will help you be ready to hit the ground running instead of taking days to adjust to the drastic time change. We use them on the way there, and when we return home to get back on track faster.

18. Packing Cubes

Packing your essentials while staying lightweight and organized can be a challenge even for the most experienced of travelers. Use packing cubes to keep everything tidy and well-organized. These come in a variety of colors so every family member can have their own, and even bonus laundry bags to separate dirty and clean items. I can promise that once you try them – you won’t go back!

19. First-Aid Kit

Do not risk a small cut or wound getting infected. While the odds of sustaining a serious injury while on a safari are pretty low, any kind of travel comes with the risk of bumps and bruises. A first-aid kit can help take care of pesky cuts and abrasions and everything you need comes in this compact case.

20. Convertible Hiking Pants

These hiking pants are the perfect safari wardrobe. They allow you to wear longer pants – or unzip them at the knee if you want a cooler shorts-style. It’s nice if hiking and you step in a muddy puddle, you can easily convert these back and forth between shorts and pants. They also have temperature-regulating material to keep you warm or cool, depending on the environment. Smarty pants!

21. Hanging Toiletry Bag

African bathrooms are not generally huge, unless you’re staying in a luxury resort. Regardless of whether you’re in a bungalow or camping outside – this hanging toiletry bag is a game-changer! It can hang anywhere and offer you a built-in storage system for all toiletry items like skincare, haircare, and makeup products. We never travel without ours. It’s one of the best items we’ve come across for consolidating the most regulated items.

22. Activated Charcoal

While traveling to a foreign country, the odds are that you might encounter foods and flavors you haven’t encountered before. In case you get hit with food poisoning or a bad stomach ache – activated charcoal is wise to have on-hand. It is an easy way to help rid your body of unexpected toxins and get back to enjoying your vacation.

23. Camera with Zoom Lens

As an obvious but necessary packing list item, you will definitely want top-notch photos of your safari. Document the moment with this Canon set that includes a versatile kit lens and a powerful zoom lens to capture wildlife in the distance. It will make a big difference to walk away from the trip with images you will treasure for a lifetime, rather than blurry shots on your phone that will likely get lost there forever.

Other Safari Packing List Items

• Discounted tours
• “Just in case” bag
• Windproof/waterproof jacket
• Dustproof camera bag
• Insulated water bottle
• Sunglasses case
• Hand sanitizer
• Travel power strip
• TSA-approved travel-sized bottles
• Polythene-free storage bag
• Citronella soap
• Shampoo bar case
• Flip-flops or sandals
• Waterproof shoe bag
• Lip balm with sunscreen
• Travel umbrella
• Bug bite cream
• Solid shampoo
• Mini hairbrush
• Pocket knife
• Travel laundry detergent
• Clothesline
• Waterproof phone case
• Flotation strap
• Selfie stick
• Memory card
• Flash drive
• Steripod toothbrush cover
• Travel pillow
• Protein bars
• Hat with bug net
• Fleece jacket
• Rain jacket

What to Wear on a Safari

Going on a safari will present you with a range of conditions. In particular, many travelers find it difficult to straddle that line between fending off the heat and the bugs. The bugs will leave you wishing you had better covered up, the heat will leave you wanting to shed longer layers.

The best way to approach this dilemma is to find the perfect blending of the two. During the hottest parts of the day, it is probably okay to wear shorts as long as you properly apply bug spray. During the dawn and dusk hours, when disease-carrying mosquitoes are at their most active, you will want to make sure you are covered by lightweight clothes that have ideally been pre-treated with bug repellant.

Either way, make sure you pack a pair of comfortable shoes with good tread.

In general, women should wear lightweight clothing that comfortably covers knees and shoulders. This is out of respect for local customs and culture as much as it is an added barrier against bugs and sun exposure.

Lightweight, stylish pants that cover your entire legs and ankles work well. Soft, light materials shirts also work well for staying cool. Keep in mind that darker colors are not only worse for heat but also for attracting mosquitoes. And don’t forget to pack at least one nice dress , as there are sure to at least one day or night where you will be relaxing over a nice dinner at your safari lodge or resort.

For men, wearing gear that is both lightweight and rugged is the way to go. As mentioned previously, avoiding bug bites is also of top concern, so the better the coverage you can get (while staying cool) the better.

Cargo shorts are good to have on hand, as well as at least a few changes of soft, lightweight shirts in both long and short sleeves. A baseball cap works well for staying put on your head during safari rides, but a more stylish brimmed hat can be nice for other sightseeing activities as well. Don’t forget to pack at least one set of nicer pants and a shirt as the opportunity for a nice dinner is likely at some point during your trip.

Packing for the Seasons in Safari

Safari in dry season – april, may, june, july, august, september, october :.

Dry months might be warm during the day but can be deceptively cool at night Convertible zip-off pants and a sturdy pair of sandals can allow you to easily go from one to the other without a lot of hassle. Layers will allow you to also accommodate fluctuations in temperature. Don’t forget a jacket to give you an extra layer of warmth when you need it.

Safari in WET SEASON – November, December, January, February, March:

If are traveling during wet season, keep in mind that road conditions might be muddy, which means your walking conditions will be muddy as well Waterproof shoes are a must. Keep in mind that wet conditions don’t necessarily mean cold, so layers are critical to effectively navigating the fluctuations in temperature. A rain jacket and water-resistant backpack will help you keep your belongings (and yourself!) cool and dry.

Glamping or Camping – In many regions of Africa it can be surprisingly cool at night and in the early morning. Wool is a versatile material that will keep you cool when it gets hot, and hot when it gets cold. Packing other favorites such as t-shirts and your favorite yoga pants are good options as well.

Jeep treks – Lightweight clothes, layers, and a brimmed hat that fits snugly and won’t fly off can all help you enjoy the drive without having to pack too much into your day bag.

What NOT to Bring on a Safari

Heavy luggage is a no-no on most vacations, but this is especially true when it comes to going on a safari. The best way to bring your library of books to wile away the long layover hours is by buying a Kindle or other e-reading device

2. Unnecessary valuables:

There’s really no reason to pack fancy jewelry while you are on a safari, and don’t bring too much extra cash either. Not only is there a risk of theft or loss, but the idea of a safari is to get in touch with nature.

3. Too many clothes:

The best way to maximize your luggage is to pack basic outfits that can work in multiple situations, temperatures, and then to hand wash them on the go if possible.

Not only are drones bulky, they aren’t allowed in most regions where you might be going on a safari. If you bring one where they are prohibited, you run the risk of having it confiscated, never to be seen again.

5. Sleeping bags:

Unless your safari journey specifically entails heavy-duty camping and you are in charge of bringing your own gear, a sleeping bag is unnecessary and will only weigh you down.

6. Plastic bags:

Plastic bags have been banned in many African countries. If you are caught with duty-free plastic bags, you might be asked to get rid of them, or worse, receive a fine.

FAQs about Safaris

1. where should i go on an african safari.

There are many options for first-time safari trekkers, but in general, the top 3 most popular destinations include the Masai Mara in Kenya, Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, and Kruger National Park in South Africa. Choosing which one is best varies from person to person.

Flying is the easiest way to reach Moab, with Canyonlands Field Airport just 20 miles outside of town. It’s a very small airport though, and only has flights to Denver, which are pretty pricey. Otherwise, you can fly into Grand Junction, which is just under two hours away, or the nearest major airport is Salt Lake City, almost four hours from Moab. Fortunately, in either case, there’s some beautiful scenery along the way. Some destinations, such as Kenya, have better safari travel structures in place but often come at a higher cost. Others, such as Tanzania, are a bit more rustic in their approach but can be easier on the pocketbook. Each destination has its own unique beauty to offer, and exploring these offerings is half the adventure!

2. What is the best time of year to go on a safari?

Africa is a huge continent, with safaris available in a multitude of countries. Because of this, there is no“one size fits all” answer to figuring out the best time of year to go on a safari. In general, dry seasons are a safer bet as roads tend to be less likely to close down. Additionally, it can be more optimal for spotting animals because the dry season tends to force your favorite “must-see” animals to congregate around the same watering holes and other water sources, which makes them easier for guides to spot.

Perhaps the most important thing to consider is what matters to you in terms of what you hope to achieve by going on a safari. Popular activities such as witnessing the Serengeti migration or a visit to Kruger National Park can vary wildly in what is considered “peak” season. For example, if seeing baby animals is high on your list, November through March is the season for babies at South Africa’s Kruger National Park.

Making a wish list of the experiences that matter most for your safari will help you better decide the best time of year to visit.

3. Are African safaris ethical?

Going on an African safari is ethical as long as you go about it thoughtfully. Watch for tour providers that focus on ethical tourism meant to provide a safe experience for both you and the animals. While getting the perfect selfie next to your favorite animal might be high on your bucket list, consider choosing activities that are easier on the ecosystem, and respectful of the animal’s natural habits. In general, activities focused on enjoying the animals from a distance are best.

4. Are African safaris safe?

As long as you are following the rules and not participating in blatantly dangerous behavior, yes, African safaris are considered very safe! However, it is always wise to check with your government’s travel site to make sure there aren’t any travel advisories in place, as well as to get advice on proper vaccinations.

5. How much are African safari tours?

The cost of your safari will vary widely depending on the time of year and also which destination you choose. Safaris that utilize a more rugged, DIY approach can be surprisingly affordable. Luxury safari lodges, however, can cost up to thousands per person, per day!

6. Are African safaris good for families?

Safaris offer a rich array of activities for families and are suitable for older children. From hot air balloon rides over the Savannah to see amazing animals in real life, safaris provide unforgettable memories and learning experiences. Keep in mind that some tour companies and lodges do have a minimum age requirement of 6 or 8. A widely accepted rule of thumb is that children should be at least age 8 to be able to appreciate a safari fully.

7. Are African safaris good for solo travelers?

Safaris offer an incredible getaway for solo travelers. Watch for resorts and lodges that waive the supplemental fee that often accompanies solo travel. If you hope to achieve solitude, you can book private drives and activities. If you are hoping to meet new friends, you are sure to meet other travelers at your lodge as well, so you won’t be short of people to share the adventure!

8. How do I pay for things while on an African safari?

The odds are that while you are on a safari, you will visit local villages and towns where you will find a vast array of locally made crafts and goods you will want to purchase. It is preferable to pay for these goods in cash, ideally in the local currency. ATMs are available at some resorts but do your research ahead of time to not only get the best exchange rate but to avoid the awkward situation of having to count out unfamiliar money on the fly when you arrive.

9. What are the African safari big 5?

What is called the “big five” while going on a safari in Africa refers to the most wished for sightings, specifically: lions, buffalos, leopards, elephants, and rhinos.

Asher Fergusson

Complete African Safari Packing List [Checklist and Guide]

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

Ultimate African Safari Packing List: Checklist and Guide

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

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

This post is divided into four primary sections:

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

What to Include on Your Safari Packing List

Pack for a purpose, minimalist packing for african safari.

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

4 Factors: Packing for your African Safari

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Activities

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

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

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

3. Safari Camp, Lodge, Hotel, or Hostel

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

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

4. Planning

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

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

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

More reading: How to Choose the Best Portable Water Filter

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

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

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

Clothing for a Safari

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

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

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

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

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

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

3 Types of Clothing to Avoid Like the Plague:

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

Clothing Packing List:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sun Protection

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

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

Insect Repellent

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

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

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

Personal Toiletries

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

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

Other Items to Consider

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

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

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

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

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

What’s on Your Ultimate African Safari Packing List?

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

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

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

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

I also blog about photography at Storyteller Tech .

Similar Posts

14 Things to Do in Kampala Uganda (Bonus: 11 Kampala Facts)

Thinking about visiting Kampala while in Uganda? In this post, you’ll learn all about Uganda’s capital city – interesting facts and many things to do in Kampala. Looking for facts about Kampala? Jump to that section now. 14 Things to Do in Kampala Uganda Here are 14 things to do in Kampala Uganda. Did we…

26 Beautiful Places to Visit in Uganda: Nature, Culture, Wildlife

Looking for the best places to visit in Uganda? In this huge guide, you’ll learn about 26 of the most beautiful and most interesting attractions in Uganda. Often called the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda is a country jam-packed with breathtaking scenery, natural wonders, exotic wildlife and fascinating culture. Learn more with these 22 facts about Uganda….

Uganda Animals: 27 Amazing Safari Animals of Uganda

Looking for Uganda animals? In this post, you’ll learn about 27 amazing animals that you can see while trekking and on safari in Uganda. They include mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. 27 African Safari Animals in Uganda Uganda is a landlocked country in eastern Africa. Along with Tanzania and Kenya, it is home to Lake…

How to Choose a Uganda Gorilla Trek (Best Time to Go, Tour Companies, Price…)

Planning your Uganda gorilla trek? Perfect! In this post, you’ll learn what to expect, the best time to go, prices, and how to choose. I also include a list of the top 3 trekking tour companies. What should you bring on your gorilla trek? Don’t forget anything with our Complete African Safari Packing List How…

19 Amazing Facts About Uganda Mountain Gorillas (Silverback, Baby, Habitat…)

In this post, you’ll learn all about Uganda mountain gorillas, including their diet, habitat, silverbacks and more. You’ll also learn specific facts about male, female and baby gorillas. And you’ll see lots of amazing pictures and video. 19 Amazing Facts About Uganda Mountain Gorillas Because Uganda is one of only three places where you can…

Travel Guide For the Ssese Islands, Lake Victoria (Uganda)

Uganda is rapidly becoming one of the hottest tourist destinations in Africa. People come from all over the world to marvel at the wildlife and plant life, eat incredible food, and take in the breathtaking scenery. The landscapes in Uganda are varied and wonderful. They’re perfect for hiking or taking nature walks. Visit Ssese Islands in Uganda…

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

Thank you Bryan

Thanks Mamerito!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Packing Lists

The Ultimate Safari Packing List

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

In This Article

Jump to a Section

Packing Checklist for a Safari

• What to Know
• 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 / David Hattan

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

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

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

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

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

Gear and Accessories

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

Luggage and Bags

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

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

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

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

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

Best Long-sleeved Shirt

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

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

Best Short-sleeved Shirt

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

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

REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

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

Best Warm Layer

Patagonia better sweater fleece jacket.

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

Best Rain Jacket

Marmot precip rain jacket.

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

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

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

Best Hiking Boots

Merrell waterproof hiking boots.

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

Best Trail Runners

Allbirds trail runners.

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

Best Sandals

Birkenstock gizeh eva sandals.

Birkenstock 

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

Travel + Leisure / Karen Chen

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

Tilley LTM6 Airflo Broad Brim Hat

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

Best Binoculars

Athlon optics midas binocular.

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

Best Sunscreen

Babo botanicals sheer mineral sunscreen lotion spf 50.

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

Travel + Leisure / Melody Chiu

Best Sunglasses

Smith caper sunglasses with chromapop.

Smith Optics

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

Travel + Leisure / Lydia Price

Best E-reader

Amazon kindle paperwhite signature edition.

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

Best Bug Spray

Sawyer products 20% picaridin insect repellent.

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

Best Adapter

Mingtong mingtong international travel adapter.

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

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

Best Carry-on Duffel

Patagonia black hole 40l duffel bag.

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

Travel + Leisure / Nick Kova

Best Checked Duffel

Briggs & riley zdx medium upright duffel bag.

Bloomingdales

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

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Daypack

Gregory women's swift 22 h20 backpack.

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

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

What to Know Before You Pack for a Safari

Prepare to wear layers.

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

Pack everything in a soft-sided bag

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

Don't overpack clothing

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

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

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

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

What to Pack for Safari – A Detailed Safari Packing List

Last updated: February 14, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 4 Comments

So you’re going on safari. Awesome! We love safaris, and Jess and I have been lucky enough to take many safaris together. But now you might be wondering what to actually pack for safari.

Well, we’re here to help. We’ve taken safaris on a number of occasions in a variety of countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. From those trips, we’ve learned what items are essential for your safari packing list, and what you probably won’t need.

We’ll also share some tips on what to consider when packing and a detailed safari packing checklist for your reference.

What to Consider when Packing for Safari

Before you start putting your safari packing list together, you are going to need to know the answers to a few questions. These questions will help inform you as to what you need to pack.

There are many different types of safari across a range of destinations and accommodation types, so there is no “one size fits all” safari packing list.

Here are some questions that we think will help you figure out more clearly what you need to bring.

Where are you going?

The first question of course is where you are going on safari. Whilst many people will instantly think of the African continent when thinking of a safari trip, you can take a safari in destinations around the world.

Once you know where you are going, then you can start to research the answers to some of the other questions that are important to your safari trip planning.

What will the weather be like during your safari?

When it comes to packing clothes and travel gear, having an idea of the weather is definitely going to make a big difference. Whilst we often think of safaris as taking place in hot and dry places, this is certainly not always the case.

If you are visiting Africa, this is obviously a huge continent, with very variable weather. If you are visiting the more southern countries like South Africa, these have a weather pattern similar to Europe or the USA, with cool winters and hot summers. Although of course being in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are reversed.

If you are visiting countries closer to the equator, like Kenya or Tanzania, then their proximity to the equator means that they tend to be quite warm year-round, and their seasons are instead divided into dry seasons and wet seasons.

The wet season, as the name suggests, is when you are more likely to get a lot more rain, whilst the dry season will be, well, drier. Of course, rain is theoretically possible at any time, but it is much less common in the dry season.

In some areas, it can get pretty cold, especially at higher elevations or when next to water. For example, if you are visiting Tanzania to hike Kilimanjaro , then even if it is hot in the plains, it is likely to be very cold near the summit.

So be sure to check into that, especially if you are visiting during the winter season of that country. You may be surprised to know you might need to bring a coat, gloves, hats, etc.

So take a look at the average temperatures, humidity, and rainfall in the places you plan to go at the time of the year you plan to visit. Also note that some countries may have very different climates across regions so be sure to take that into account as well.

One good website for checking average temperatures, precipitation, and humidity for the destinations on your trip is the “Climate (averages)” section of timeanddate.com . It allows for you to check the historical averages by month as well as the current weather.

How long is your safari?

The duration of your safari will definitely make an impact on how much you pack.

If you are traveling for a few days, then you will likely need fewer items of clothing compared to a safari lasting for a few weeks or even months. For longer safaris, you’ll want to consider how to handle laundry, which we cover in a different section.

What types of transport will you be using?

It’s important to have an understanding of the transport you will be using when you are on safari, as this will often make a big difference in terms of what you can bring with you, and also the sort of luggage you can bring.

For example, if you are going on safari in an African country, many airlines flying to and from these destinations will have very generous luggage allowances, so it can be tempting to pack a lot in a big suitcase just in case.

However, once you are actually in the country, your local transport might not have quite so much room. If you are taking a group safari especially, with multiple people, there will be limited space available for each person.

Another big restricting factor is if you are taking any domestic flights on smaller aircraft. These are often used in-country to get to and from safari parks, and can skip long drives.

Smaller aircraft tend to be particularly restrictive when it comes to luggage allowances, both in terms of weight and also volume. The small holds mean they can only carry so much, and larger hard sided luggage for example might not even fit through the hatch. So many don’t allow you to bring any kind of hard-sided luggage.

If you are doing a multi-day hike, such as up Mt. Kilimanjaro or Mt. Kenya, your trekking guide and company will generally set size and weight restrictions on what can be carried.

Generally, you are allowed one duffel bag (carried by a porter) and then one personal backpack that you have on you at all times. Most companies (or hotels if staying at the same one before and after) will have somewhere you can store additional luggage before your hike if needed but you will need to check and make arrangements.

You will definitely want to talk to your safari organizer prior to packing. They should be able to give you clear instructions regarding luggage limits and restrictions. If you are flying on smaller aircraft, you will generally find that soft luggage is going to be preferable.

What activities will you be doing on your safari trip?

Every safari is different, and it’s important that you pack according to what you will be doing.

For example, a safari where you are going to spend the majority of your time in a vehicle looking at wildlife in game reserves will probably pack a bit differently than someone going on a safari which includes gorilla trekking , long hikes, climbing a mountain, fishing, cycling, camping, or spending a lot of time birdwatching on foot in swampy areas.

So it is good to have an idea of those activities. How much time will be spent in vehicles, walking, hiking, boating, biking, etc.? Will you be spending any time in cities doing activities like visiting museums, shopping, visiting restaurants, etc. Will you be going to a beach or spending a bit of time in swimming pools?

You should have a full itinerary for your safari so you should know what to bring, and a good tour operator should also give some suggestions as to essential items to bring.

What sort of accommodation will you be staying in during your safari?

Safari accommodation varies wildly, from very simple budget camping options through to high end 5-star luxury lodges.

Whilst the majority of accommodation options that we have stayed at on safari have a fairly relaxed dress code, even at the luxury end, it is worth checking to see what the dress code is, if any. Sometimes evening attire might require a button up shirt for men for example or close toed shoes.

On the other end of the scale, if you are staying in a tent then you might need to consider things like shower shoes or nightwear that is suitable for midnight bathroom breaks at shared toilet blocks.

General Tips when Packing for Safari

Before we go through the packing list, we wanted to share some tips to help you pick what to bring with you on safari.

Clothing Color for Safari

Perhaps one of the more important things to consider when packing for safari is the color of the clothes you bring with you.

Generally, brown and green colors, or variants thereof, are regarded as the best. They generally blend into the surroundings, and have the bonus that they don’t show dirt quite as well, which is a benefit on dusty drives.

Bright primary colors are discouraged as they make you stand out more.

Blue, dark purple, and black colors should also be avoided. These colors are known to attract Tsetse flies, which have a very nasty bite and which can carry disease.

How Easy is it to Wash?

When putting your clothing list together, especially on a trip longer than a week or so, you will want to think about how easy each item of clothing is to wash. You might also want to consider how long it might take to dry.

A safari can be both a dusty and sweaty environment, meaning that unless you want to carry a lot of clothes, you will have to plan to do some laundry as you go on a longer trip. Most lodges will likely offer laundry, or you can do your own hand laundry easily enough.

With this in mind, high-end clothing which requires dry-cleaning or a careful delicate cycle might be best left at home if you don’t want it ruined. We’d suggest sticking to clothes that wash easily in hot or cold water, and which air-dry quickly (the majority of locations we’ve visited do not have electric driers).

Versatility

When it comes to choosing clothing and putting outfits together, we’d suggest giving priority to clothing that can be worn in multiple situations or in multiple outfits, to avoid having to bring too much clothing.

So a top that works as well on a safari as at an evening meal would definitely be a better choice if possible, compared to bringing multiple options for different occasions.

Safari Packing List

We’ll now go through a guide to what we think are essentials for safari, which is based on multiple safaris we have taken, some of which have been over quite prolonged multi-week trips.

Of course, there is no definitive list, and you should adjust this list based on what you feel you need to take with you. But this should give you a good starting point.

Shirts for Safari

Wherever you are going on safari, and whatever the weather, you will need a number of shirts or tops. We usually travel with a number of layers, because even in hot countries our experience is that it can be cooler at night.

So for us, we normally pack a bunch of t-shirts, some long sleeve button-up safari style shirts, and a couple of fleece outer layers.

For t-shirts, we prefer these made of wicking material, which is cool and fast drying. So something like this for Laurence and these for Jess . We also travel with a few cotton t-shirts as well, but note that these tend to hold sweat and not dry as fast.

Next, we also like to travel with button-up shirts that are specifically designed for safari, and for that we like the Craghoppers brand of clothing. We mostly wear long-sleeved ones as these protect against both the sun and insect bites.

Craghoppers make a whole range of clothes which are excellent for all sorts of outdoor activities, but we think they are particularly suited to safari. If you spend time on safari, you’ll likely recognize that this is probably the most common brand worn by more experienced travelers, especially those from Europe.

Their clothes are fast drying, very lightweight, durable, usually have multiple handy pockets, and many of them have built-in insect repellent as well!

For shirts, we both like the Craghoppers Adventure II style, available for men here and for women here . We’ve worn them on safari all across East Africa and they have proven to be very capable items of clothing.

Of course, there are many more options out there, and you can see a range of moisture-wicking fast-drying button up shirts on Amazon here .

Finally, when it comes to general top layers, we usually also pack at least one warmer top which can go over everything else. This can be handy for those cooler early morning safaris or evenings in the camp, when temperatures can drop, especially if you are at higher elevations.

Generally, we prefer a top with a full zip down the front as it allows us to control our temperatures a bit more by zipping or unzipping the front, but this is a personal choice.

For tops, we love clothes from Patagonia . Their sustainable ethos and approach to rewearability is something we really appreciate, plus their clothing happens to be fantastic quality. It is definitely a little on the more expensive side, but it should last you a long time!

Jess in particular really likes her Patagonia full-zip better sweater , and there’s a men’s version as well . We’ve also had good experiences with the North Face range of fleeces, which is my current fleece, and you can see a full range of those here .

If you are on a budget, we have had good luck getting secondhand high quality fleeces and pullovers secondhand from thrift stores or online secondhand clothing websites.

Trousers / Pants / Dresses for Safari

Generally we both prefer to wear long pants for safari, even on hotter days. We like lightweight hiking style pants that offer good sun protection, as well as some protection from biting insects and branches. Jeans generally are a bit too heavy and hot in our experience.

When it comes to specific brands, we again like Craghoppers for their range of pants. Their Insect Shield technology helps keep biting insects away and they have a range of hiking pants with this technology built in. Their products are also very lightweight and fast drying.

When it comes to specific products that we have used, Laurence likes these more baggy cargo style trousers , whilst Jess prefers these slightly more fitted pants .

Again, there are multiple brands offering high quality pants, including these options from Patagonia , and this extensive selection on Amazon .

Jess also likes to travel with some easy wear lightweight dresses which are good for wearing in the evening for dinner and non-safari days.

Shoes for Safari

Choosing the right footwear for safari will of course depend on the kind of activities you are going to be doing.

If you will be doing any hiking, including game walks, chimpanzee trekking or gorilla trekking , then we highly recommend a good pair of waterproof hiking boots.

We both have a pair of Scarpa hiking boots , Laurence has these ones and Jess has these .

Of course, there are lot of other great brands . We’ve had various pairs, Jess in particular liked her Merrell hiking boots and she hiked Mt. Kilimanjaro in those.

If your trip doesn’t involve a lot of hiking, then you can probably skip proper hiking boots. They are quite heavy and take up a fair bit of space, so will save you some luggage space if not required.

We just recommend you bring one good pair of comfortable closed-toed shoes. A pair of lightweight flip flops or sandals is also likely a good idea if you plan to spend time relaxing at the pool, resort, or going to the beach.

For more tips on shoes for travel, see our guide to the best travel shoes for men , and the best travel shoes for women .

Hats for Safari

Many safari destinations tend to be quite hot and sunny, and you’re going to be spending a lot of time outdoors. So a good hat is going to be essential for your trip. You just want to make sure that the hat you choose has a wide enough brim to shade your entire face. Some may also want one with a neck flap.

We personally love our Tilley hats . They are well constructed, easy to pack, lightweight, machine washable, and come with a very solid guarantee. For safari, we’d recommend the LTM6 Airflo hat , which is what Laurence uses, or for even more cooling, the LTM8 Airflo hat .

We have also had other hats of course. In addition to a Tilley Airflo hat, Jess also has a hat with a foldable neck flap like this one , which keeps the sun off her neck as well as her head. My parents both took hats with sunflaps with them on safari to be able to protect their necks. So that is also a great option.

Swimwear for Safari

Whilst you are unlikely to be going for a swim whilst out on safari, what with the risk of crocodiles and hippos, that doesn’t mean you should leave your swimwear at home.

Many safari lodges and camps have absolutely wonderful pool areas, and if you have downtime between game drives on a hot day, then a dip in the pool can be a wonderful way to relax and cool down. Many safaris might also include some relaxation time on a beach or island.

We always pack swimwear when we go on safari for just this reason, and we’ve had some lovely swimming experiences as a result.

You can search for swimwear for men on Amazon here , and for women here .

Socks and Underwear for Safari

This one will be a brief entry. Obviously, you’re going to need undergarments and socks for safari!

Our main tips are to be sure to pack enough to last either your trip (if a week or less) or the longest stretch of your trip you plan to go without doing laundry. Ideally pick lightweight and quick-drying underwear and socks that can be easily washed on the go. We tended to handwash these types of items every 4-5 days so we never ran out of them.

If you are looking for a brand, ExOfficio (nylon) or Smartwool (merino wool) are a couple of brands you might check out for travel-friendly quick-drying undergarments.

If hiking or planning to do a lot of walking, be sure to bring good quality hiking socks along. You want good socks that will provide a bit of cushion, wick away moisture, and help prevent blisters. A few brands we like are Smartwool , Darn Tough , and Farm to Feet .

Also, for women, it is a good idea to bring along a supportive sports bra or two. Jess says these are a must-have for bumpy roads and climbing.

Raingear for Safari

Whatever time of year you are planning on going on safari, and whatever activities you will be doing, we still recommend packing some sort of raingear just in case.

This might be a lightweight breathable rain jacket that you can wear over your clothes, or a pack away rain poncho . Just make sure whatever you bring has a hood.

We always travel with rain protection of some kind, just in case.

Camera Gear for Safari

I’ve already written a very comprehensive guide to the best camera for safari , as well as the best bean bag for safari , so I would definitely recommend reading those if you want to get some great images on your trip.

In summary though, if you want to get great images of wildlife, you will need a couple of things. First, a camera with a good zoom lens. Second, a bean bag to stabilize your gear.

When it comes to specific camera suggestions, many folks find that a bridge camera like the Sony RX10 IV  is a good option. At the higher end of the budget and size spectrum, you’ll want a high end dedicated mirrorless camera with at least a 400mm zoom lens.

A camera can be a huge investment, so we also suggest renting as an option to consider. A company like  Lens Rentals will allow you to rent a lens and a camera body at a much lower cost than buying it outright.

They also give you the option to purchase the gear rather than return it, so if you love the experience then you can invest having tested the gear out.

If you decide to rent through Lens Rentals , you can save 15% on any rental by using our discount code, LAURENCE15. Just enter it at checkout.

We also highly recommend a photography bean bag if you will mainly be shooting from inside vehicle. We use these extensively on safari trips, and they are really an invaluable item.

We have a guide to some of the best options photography bean bags here , but recommend checking out either the  Kinesis SafariSack 4.2  or  LensCoat LensSack Pro Jr  as a starting point.

Finally, don’t forget a good camera bag to keep your gear safe, lots of spare batteries , memory cards , your chargers, and ideally a waterproof camera cover to protect your gear in case it rains.

Binoculars for Safari

We can highly recommend taking a good pair of binoculars with you when on safari. Not every bird or animal is going to conveniently place itself within easy viewing range, and a pair of binoculars will let you get a much better view of the wildlife.

You don’t need to spend a massive amount to get a reasonable pair of binoculars, but we’d suggest setting a minimum budget of around $80 USD. Below this price point build and image quality will likely suffer.

We’d suggest looking for a pair with around an 8x to 10x magnification.

Some recommended options include:

• Vanguard Vesta 8×25 . a great entry level option if don’t want to spend a fortune. They are very light and offer both waterproofing and fogproofing. These are a great value option, plus you can save 20% on the price by using our exclusive discount code FindingTheUniverse at checkout on the Vanguard store.
• Celestron Nature DX 8×42 . This is a well-regarded and popular budget option. Fog and waterproof with a tough construction.
• Vanguard VEO HD2 8×42 binoculars – an excellent, well priced and still reasonably compact pair of binoculars featuring extra low dispersion glass carbon-composite construction, waterproofing and fogproofing. We use a pair like this.
• Nikon 8×42 Monarch M5 – lightweight, durable, waterproof and fogproof. Nikon make quite a few binoculars, and these are a popular mid-range option.
• Swarokvski 8.5×42 – we had a pair of Swarovski binoculars loaned to us for several months, and they are magnificent, with wonderful bright and sharp images. This pair offers excellent performance, but are definitely at the premium end of the price spectrum!

As you can see, there’s no shortage of choice across a range of price points. If you are interested in bird watching on safari, or getting into birding, see our beginners’ guide to birdwatching for some tips.

Electronics for Safari

You don’t really need a lot of electronics for safari, however there are a few things you might find useful.

First, a USB battery pack . These will let you charge your phone on the go, as well as any other device that uses USB.

Whilst the majority of accommodation options we’ve stayed at on safari have had had power, even the most remote, this isn’t always guaranteed. So a USB battery pack is a great fallback option.

The second thing we recommend, if your camera has removable batteries, is to see if you can get a USB powered battery charger for it.

This is because sometimes, more remote lodges don’t have regular plug sockets. However, they do often have USB outputs. While some cameras support direct charging by USB, this is by no means the standard.

We personally travel with a USB charger which is compatible with our DSLR and mirrorless Canon cameras, which both use the same type of battery. You will need to search for a USB battery charger that is compatible with the batteries your camera uses.

You can see some examples for a range of brands on Amazon here .

Insect Repellent for Safari

One slightly less exciting aspect of safari is the potential for biting insects. Mosquitoes are the obvious one, but there are a range of other insects that can bite you.

Ideally, you want to avoid being bitten if you can help it. Many insects carry various diseases, including malaria, yellow fever, dengue fever, and so on. Whilst you can take medication or vaccines to help prevent some of these diseases like malaria (definitely recommend considering taking antimalarials), prevention is also a really important step.

With this in mind, a good insect repellent like this is a must for safari. Most experts recommend products with DEET in, which are generally regarded as the most effective against most biting insects, including mosquitoes. However, there are also some DEET free options out there for those who want to avoid it, just note they may not be as effective.

Also for those planning to do much trekking, hiking, or walking, depending on your destination, you will also want to think more about crawling insects like safari ants, leeches, stinging caterpillars, ticks, etc.  Generally insect repellent along with long sleeves, long pants, and pulling hiking socks up over your pants are fine to avoid these for most people.

Those going to wetter areas and jungles might also want to consider leech socks or gaiters for those going into wetter areas like jungles where leeches are common.

We own these leech socks and they work great, but they are probably overkill for most people on safari trips. But if you have gaiters for hiking anyway to keep out dirt and stones, these can generally also work to help guard against leeches and ticks.

Toiletries / Medicines for Safari

You will want to bring a range of toiletries and medicines with you, some of which should be fairly obvious, and some which may be less obvious.

Falling into the latter camp, we always travel with and recommend rehydration salts . Dehydration is no joke, and drinking plenty of water is really important. However, as you sweat you can lose salt, and rehydration salts can help replace what you lose.

It’s also important to remember that you may be in some pretty remote places and it is good to be prepared to be able to tend to minor health issues such as cuts, scrapes, blisters, bug bites, headache, common stomach complaints, etc.

Here’s a quick list of things to think about packing in your toiletry / medicine kit for safari:

• High SPF (30+) sun cream or sunscreen
• Lip-balm with SPF
• Rehydration salts
• Basic meds like pain relievers, anti-diarrheal tablets , and antacids
• Mini first aid kit with bandages, blister covers, antiseptic wipes, etc.
• Toothpaste / toothbrush
• Sanitary items (in our experience tampons are not always available in country, depending on where you are going)
• Anti-malarial / other required medication
• Razor / spare blades
• Ear plugs / eye mask
• Hand sanitizer
• Moisturizer / lotion

Of course, your list may vary somewhat but we think the above should be a good starting point.

Laundry on Safari

Depending on how long your safari trip is, it’s possible that you might need to do a little laundry as you travel. We’ve done a couple of five-week safari trips, and we had to do laundry a few times on both of those trips.

Whilst many lodges and hotels will do your laundry for you if you stay more than 1 night, you can also normally just handwash a few items yourself, which is what we often end up doing. In hot countries it can often dry in an afternoon.

The main things you will need are going to be some form of travel wash, a sink stopper, and a portable clothesline to hang your clothes.

For laundry wash in a travel sized bottle or tube we like the Dr. Beckmanns travel wash , Sink Suds , or the Sea to Summit Wash , all of which we have used to do laundry whilst traveling all around the world. Or just put your favorite liquid laundry detergent in a reusable plastic or silicone bottle and pack it along.

For a clothesline, there are lots of portable clotheslines on Amazon . We particularly like this one as it packs away small and you don’t need to pack pegs. For a sink stopper, Jess has been using this one for over 10 years.

For more tips on laundry, see our complete guide to laundry when you travel .

Luggage for Safari

When it comes to choosing what to pack all your belongings into for your safari trip, a lot will come down to the type of trip you are taking, especially around the transport.

If you’re going to be using small planes for example, this will have a big impact, and you will like find a sturdy duffle travel bag like this might be the best option.

You might be wondering if wheeled luggage makes sense for safari. In our experience, the majority of accommodation options don’t really suit wheeled luggage as the ground is simply too rough. So whilst it will be nice at the airport, beyond that you’re likely going to have to carry the bag (or rely on the enthusiastic hotel staff).

However, if you already have wheeled luggage and won’t be taking small planes, then by all means don’t feel you need to purchase new bags. We’ve taken a number of safaris with hard sided wheeled luggage and it worked out great.

As well as larger luggage, we highly recommend bringing a small backpack or shoulder bag that you can use on a day-to-day basis. This can be used to carry things like your water bottle, battery charger, guide books, suncream and insect repellent, for example.

We use a small Osprey day pack as well as a larger Vanguard camera bag for our camera gear on a day-to-day basis.

If you’re looking for a new bag anyway, we have no hesitation recommending Eagle Creek or  Osprey specifically for safari.

For hard sided luggage with wheels, we use and can recommend Level8 or Delsey , both of which we have used on trips around the world including safaris (without domestic flights).

For camera gear, we use Vanguard for our camera bags, they offer a great mix of high quality and great value. Laurence has been a Vanguard ambassador since 2014 and is always happy to recommend their gear.

Books for Safari

When you go on safari you are going to be seeing a lot of new animals and birds.

Your guide will normally be very knowledgeable to help you identify what you are seeing, but it is also nice to be able to develop your own recognition skills.

We’d also often see birds or animals around our hotel when we were not with our guide and want to know what they were.

For this reason, we recommend bringing along a guidebook or two to the likely animals and birds you might see. Whilst your guide will probably have a giant and super comprehensive book, we suggest that a smaller book that covers the most common animals and birds will be more practical for packing.

We particularly like the Pocket Guide books, which we have used on various trips. For example, there’s the Pocket Guide to the Birds of East Africa , the Pocket Guide to the Mammals of East Africa , and the Pocket Guide to the Mammals of Southern Africa .

We have found that having a small reference guide can definitely make the safari experience a lot more fun and hands on, and well worth the small investment.

Reusable Water Bottle / Water Filter

You will definitely need to drink a lot of water on safari. Unfortunately, most safari destinations do not have safe drinking water, meaning you need to either drink bottled water, or figure out a way to purify it yourself.

We prefer the latter option as it means we can cut down on plastic waste. Depending on your safari operator, they may also purchase a large refillable water bottle that you can refill your own bottle from. Some hotels also filter their own water on site.

In either case, we highly recommend travelling with at least one refillable water bottle per person on your trip. Just make sure to get one with a lid that seals and doesn’t drip and one that will fit into a standard cup holder or can be placed in the back of a vehicle seat pouch.

For water bottles, we use and love the Klean Kanteen range , and they have a range of bottles to choose from. Jess uses the classic , whilst Laurence likes the wide mouth version .

If you decide to go down the route of filtering your own water, we recommend reading our guide to safe drinking water when travelling , as well as the best water filters for travel , which contain lots of useful advice and information to help you pick the right product for your trip.

If you have questions or want advice based on our experience, just ask in the comments section of this post or in either of those water related articles.

Entertainment Items

Whilst a safari is very entertaining in of itself, there will be periods of downtime, such as long drives between game reserves, flights, or afternoon and evening periods between game drives.

For these periods, you may want to bring some entertainment. We always like to travel with a pack of playing cards for example, as well as some books to read.

Many hotels and safari lodges will have a small book swap service, so you can often swap books as you go. A Kindle or similar eBook reader can also be a good investment if you read a lot.

Another thing we love to do when we travel is to keep a travel journal. On safari this can serve as a reminder of what we have seen and done each day, and it makes for a lovely keepsake.

See our guide to the best travel journals for some of our favourites.

Safari Packing Checklist

Here’s a full safari packing checklist to help you remember what to bring on your trip for reference.

• T-shirts / tops
• Button down shirts
• Sweater / fleeces for layering
• Trousers / Pants / Shorts
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hiking boots (if needed)
• Sandals (if needed)
• Nicer outfit for evening wear if required
• Wide-brimmed hat
• Raincoat or poncho
• Coat (if needed)
• Hat / gloves (if needed)
• Reusable water bottle / water filter
• Skincare items (cleansers/soap/creams etc.)
• Chapstick with SPF
• Sun cream / Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Insect repellent
• Basic Medications and first aid items (incl. anti-malarials and prescriptions)
• Hygiene Products
• Hair care items (shampoo/comb/hair ties, etc.)
• Razor / tweezers / nail clippers
• Eye mask / ear plugs
• Other __________________
• Camera and lenses
• Photography bean bag
• Memory cards
• Spare batteries / chargers
• Camera accessories
• Headphones / ear buds
• Portable power pack
• Travel adaptor
• Cables / chargers
• hiking day bag, duffel bag (if needed for porter), gaiters or leech socks / hiking poles / hiking clothing, reusable water bottle or hydration pack (like Camelbak), head lamp or flashlight, any camping gear like sleeping bag etc. (if not provided), Other
• Checked bag
• Carry-on bag
• Visa / proof of onward travel etc (if required)
• Vaccination records
• Jewelry / watch
• Laundry supplies
• Travel journal
• Mini sewing kit
• Reading materials
• Cards / games / puzzle books
• Other ___________________

Further Reading

That’s it for our guide to what to pack on safari! We hope you found it useful. We do have some more content that we also think you might find handy when planning your safari.

• Our guide to getting better photos on safari , as well as choosing the best camera for safari
• We also have a guide to the best photography bean bags for safari
• If you are keen on seeing primates, we have a guide to gorilla trekking as well as a guide to chimpanzee trekking
• We have a guide to  getting online when travelling , to help you stay connected on the go
• You’re going to need to power all your devices when you travel – see our guide to the  best travel adapters so you can choose the right one for your trip

And that’s it! As always, we are happy to try to answer any questions you may have about planning your own safari. Just pop them in the comments below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Or if you have been on safari and want to share your own experiences or advice about packing for a safari, feel free to share it below!

Enjoyed this post? Why not share it!

There are 4 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

25th March 2024 at 12:26 pm

Hello there, I am wondering about packing jackets or coats for an upcoming safari trip to South Africa? It will be myself, a friend, and my teenage daughter. We have never been and will be visiting during the country’s winter season (July). We’ll be in both north and south parts of the country and we’ve been told to prepare for cool weather and rain, as well as warm sunny weather, but not too much else. Going on a 10 day planned safari tour and need to keep our packing to a minimum as I think there are size/weight requirements for parts of the journey. Wondering how you would decide about what to bring for warmth and rain given the time of year?

Also, if the 3 of us share a photo beanbag, which one might you suggest for someone who has little space?

Appreciative of any advice you can share with me and thanks for such a great article on packing for a safari – it has been a great help for us as we come up with what we need to buy for our trip to South Africa!

Laurence Norah says

25th March 2024 at 6:41 pm

Sounds like you have a wonderful trip coming up!

Having visited South Africa in July I can confirm that it definitely gets pretty cold, especially at higher elevations. In July in Johannesburg it’s not unusual to have temperatures close to freezing for example. So you are definitely going to want warm clothes for your trip.

I would recommend packing a number of layers so you can take them on and off as the day warms and cools, and you can also then mix and match to suit. If you are particularly sensitive to the cold you might consider thermal baselayers, but the challenge with those is that as it gets warmer you will likely find they are too hot and removing a base layer in the middle of a safari is going to be more challenging.

So a good warm coat as your outer layer is probably going to be your best bet, and then a long sleeve mid-layer fleece followed by a baselayer. You might also appreciate a warm hat and gloves. A lot of safari time takes place early in the morning and in the evening, when temperatures are going to be lower. I would personally bring a lightweight rain jacket or poncho and a warmer jacket. Then if it’s warmer in the day and raining I can still wear the rain jacket, rather than having a heavy waterproof jacket that might be too warm.

A good down (or down style) jacket will be fairly lightweight and still warm, so that might be the best option. Fleece is also a light material.

For a photo bean bag I’d probably recommend the smaller Kinesis Safari Sack 1.4 which is pretty small. If you get buckwheat that is very light, or you can buy something like kidney beans when you arrive in country. If you have larger camera gear then the Kinesis 4.2 is also a great pick, I own of these and it works great. It’s also worth noting that most bean bags are very light and small when empty, they only start to take up weight and space when they’re full.

I hope this helps, have an amazing time on safari and let me know if you have any more questions!

Glenn M. says

9th September 2023 at 6:32 pm

Just wanted to stop by and say that this is such a wonderful post for anyone packing for a safari for the first time (or second time!). We have been lucky to do a couple of African safaris in our life and it was fun to read over this and remember them even if our safari days have probably come to an end. Definitely second the recommendations for Craghoppers (if you know, you know!) and for bringing soft sided luggage, hard wearing clothes, comfortable high-top hiking shoes/boots, lots of sun cream & insect repellent, a hat, earbuds, and some physical things to do (books, cards, journals, etc.) in the evenings and on long driving days.

Also woudl add for those who wear glasses like myself, those eye glass things that attach to your glasses with a cord and keep your glasses from coming off. Can also be useful for sunglasses as my wife and son wore them as well. They saved my glasses a couple of times and they are very cheap to buy. Maybe somethign to add to your otherwise great safari packing list here?

Also my wife always brought a few little souvenirs or useful items from home for our main driver and guide on the trips to give them as a small token of our appreication.

10th September 2023 at 2:57 pm

Thanks so much! Your tip on a sunglasses holder is a good one, Jess does actually normally travel with one and also finds it invaluable. I will definitely add that to our post. I also like your idea of bringing things from home as gifts for your guide, that’s a lovely idea.

Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts! I’m actually hiking in Wales in my Craghoppers at the moment. Such great pants 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let me know when there's a reply to my comment (just replies to your comment, no other e-mails, we promise!)

Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter where we share our latest travel news and tips. This also makes you eligible to enter our monthly giveaways!

We only ask for your e-mail so we can verify you are human and if requested notify you of a reply. To do this, we store your data as outlined in our privacy policy . Your e-mail will not be published or used for any other reason other than those outlined above.

• Mattress Toppers
• Sheets & Bedding
• Sleep Products
• Cleaning & Laundry
• Heating & Cooling
• Home Office
• Kitchen & Dining
• Storage & Organization
• Wine & Bar
• Accessories
• Handbags & Purses
• Lingerie & Sleepwear
• Outdoor & Fitness Apparel
• Kids Clothes & Accessories
• Pregnancy & Postpartum
• Toys & Books
• Apparel & Accessories
• Camping & Hiking
• Fishing & Hunting
• Tennis & Racket Sports
• Tools & Tech
• Training & Recovery
• Water Sports
• Winter Sports
• Personal Products
• Wellness & Self Care
• Computers, Tablets & Accessories
• Online Tools
• Smart Home Devices
• Smartphones, Smartwatches & Accessories
• Hotels & Lodging
• Travel Products
• Father's Day
• Mother's Day
• Valentine's Day
• Amazon Prime Day
• Beauty & Grooming
• Tech & Electronics
• Travel Deals
• Mattress & Sleep

The Ultimate African Safari Packing List, For Botswana And Beyond

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

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.

More Travel Stories

• International Travel Packing List
• Ski Trip Packing List
• Best Luggage

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

23 MUST-HAVE Items on your African Safari Packing List

• Updated on January 15, 2024
• No Comments

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more about disclosures.

First trip to Africa? You’re in luck!

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

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

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

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

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

Safari Clothing Essentials

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

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

Tips for Safari Clothes Packing

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

Read More: Riu Palace Resort Zanzibar – Our Honest Review

Clothing for your African Safari Packing List:

1. safari shirt.

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

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

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

You can thank us later…!

2. T-Shirts

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

3. Boots or Shoes

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

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

4. Safari Hat

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

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

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

5. Safari Pants

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

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

Read More: The Lodge in Ngorongoro that has Spectacular Views

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

African Safari Packing List Essentials

7. soft-sided luggage.

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

8. Packing Cubes

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

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

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

9. Universal Travel Adapter

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

10. Insect Repellent

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

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

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

11. Tiger Balm

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

12. First Aid Kit

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

13. Sunscreen

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

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

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

14. Sunglasses

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

15. Flashlight

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

16. Mosquito Net

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

17. Power Bank

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

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

18. Selfie Stick

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

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

19. Anti-Diarrhea Tablets

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

20. Binoculars

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

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

21. Microfibre Towel

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

22. Toilet Paper/Wipes

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

23. Anti-Malaria Tablets

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

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

Read More: How Plan an Affordable Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari

Other Handy Safari Packing Tips:

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

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

Your Safari Packing List Covered!

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

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

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

Further Reads:

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

Related Posts

African Safari Anxiety: 19 Things People Worry About!

Riu Palace Zanzibar Review: Best All-Round Luxury Hotel

Roy Safaris Review: Best Tour Operator in Tanzania?

11 Smart Tips: How to do Affordable Luxury Travel

Luxurious destinations are little to do with how much they cost and everything to do with how they make us feel –  long after the journey ends. That’s the essence of Roaming in Luxury. We’re a group of people who have mastered the art of LuxVenturing – a blend of adventure and affordable luxury travel. Our aim is to share our insights, resources, and stories, so you can focus on crafting the best, most affordable luxury experiences on your own travels. Read more about us…

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Remember Me

Become a Luxventurer with us!

Don’t miss out on the thrill of luxury adventure! Sign up for our newsletter and get insider tips, exciting destinations, and inspiration for your next luxurious adventure, all delivered straight to your inbox.

Quick Links

• Cookie Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

Search the site

Copyright © 2024 Roaming in Luxury | All Rights Reserved

Unlock the Secrets of Affordable Luxury Travel!

Are you an adventurer with a taste for comfort? Join our newsletter and receive weekly tips on experiencing  luxurious destinations without breaking the bank.

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. You must have JavaScript enabled in your browser to utilize the functionality of this website.

• Attractions
• Places to Visit
• Safaris & Tours
• Accommodation
• Wedding & Honeymoon
• Zanzibar Tours
• Safaris from Zanzibar
• Safaris from Mombasa
• Gorilla Trekking
• South Africa Tours
• Places To Visit
• Zimbabwe Safaris & Tours
• Ethiopia Historical Sites
• Trips & Tours

Wildebeest Migration

From the Ndutu region of the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania to the Maasai Mara in southern Kenya... read more

• Victoria Falls
• Crater Highlands
• Cities to explore
• Wildebeest migration
• Birdwatching
• Animals on safari
• Gorillas & Chimpanzee
• Masai Tribe
• Hadzabe Tribe

October 4, 2023

August 7, 2023

June 20, 2023

• Great Migration
• Classic Safari
• Multi Country Safari
• Gorilla & Chimpanzee
• Romantic Holidays
• Walking safaris
• Family Safaris
• Cultural Experience

• Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
• Preparation
• Acclimatization
• What to Pack for Kilimanjaro
• On the Mountain
• Mount Kilimanjaro Routes
• Mount Kilimanjaro Guides

We want the best for our clients!

We seek accommodation with friendly owners, helpful staff, great food, amazing pastime options, spectacular views, pleasant atmosphere and clean facilities.

We guarantee good value for money, whatever your choice of accommodation is.

Actual brochures

Explore, experience, and enjoy Africa with us!

• Safari tour specialists
• Years of experience
• Private vehicles
• Safe traveling
• Financial insurance
• About Shadows of Africa
• Social Responsibility
• Travel memberships

December 2, 2022

October 10, 2022

March 30, 2021

• Events and Festivals
• Adventures & Sports
• Meaningful travel
• Travel tips
• Special Offer
• Accomodation
• The Ultimate Safari Packing List: What to Pack for your African Safari

by AdminSoa July 4, 2017

• SOUTH AFRICA
• BEACH HOLIDAYS

Packing for your Safari

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Pack for Your Safari

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

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

A warm sweater or light fleece

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

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

A windbreaker or waterproof jacket

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

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

Walking shoes or boots

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

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

A long sleeve dress shirt and trousers

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

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

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

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

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

Sunscreen and lip balm

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

Insect repellent

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

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

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

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

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

Batteries and/or charger for your camera

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

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

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

A flashlight or headlamp

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

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

Guide books

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

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

Phone and charger

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

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

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

A good book

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

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

Tissues/Wet Wipes

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

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

Medical Essentials

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Wear on Safari

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

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

Weather in East Africa

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

Weather in Tanzania

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

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

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

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

January and February represent the short dry season .

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

Weather in Kenya

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

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

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

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

Weather in Rwanda

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

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

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

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

Weather in Uganda

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

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

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

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

Are you interested in an African safari?

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

Three Day Fly-In Serengeti Safari

If you're pressed for time and the Serengeti is your priority, why not cut out the driving and fly directly to the world-famous National Park? A three-day fly-in safari lets y...

Two Day Safari to Tarangire and Ngorongoro

For those pressed for time, this two day/one night safari packs in two of Tanzania's most beloved national parks. You'll have the chance to see the Big Five and plenty more...

Three Day Maasai Mara Flying Safari

If time is tight but you don't want to miss any of the beauty that the Maasai Mara has to offer, then a fly-in safari might be perfect for you.  Flying from Na...

Ten Day Sun and Sand Safari

Enjoy the very best of Kenyas  national parks and beaches on this unforgettable itinerary. You'll first go on an exciting wilderness safari before flying to the Kenyan...

Six Day Kenyan Bush Adventure

For the adventurous at heart, our African Bush Adventure Safari packs in a mixture of game-viewing and outdoor adrenaline as you pay visits to the Maasai Mara, Amboseli Nat...

Eight Day Best of Kenya Safari

Witness the majesty of the world-famous Wildebeest Migration on the Masai Mara, see the sun rise over Kilimanjaro in Ambosel National Park, look for black and white rhinoce...

• Flying safaris
• Weddings & Honeymoons
• Local Events
• Special Offers

How it works

• 1 Describe your dream trip
• 2 A travel consultant will help curate your experience
• 3 Confirm & start packing

Let us plan your dream African trip!

Enquire now and a Shadows of Africa Safari Expert will be in touch within 24 hours!

We are Shadows of Africa, an international team dedicated to sharing the beauty and wonder of Africa with the world.

Quick contact

• [email protected]
• US +1 585 312 1991 (phone)
• US +1 332 331 8621 (WhatsApp)
• +255 784 954 453 (emergency)
• +255 622 134 453 (emergency)

Privacy Policy | Terms and Conditions  | Sustainability

The Ultimate Packing List for Your African Safari

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

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

Dressing for Your Safari

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

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

Clothes and Accessories

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

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

Toiletries and First Aid

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

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

​Electronic Devices

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

Pack For a Purpose

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

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

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

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

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

Essential Items to Take on an African Safari

Everything You Should Pack for a Hiking Trip

The 14 Best Survival Kits of 2024

The 8 Best Bags and Backpacks for Disney of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Vacation Packing Checklist for France

The 9 Best Carry-on Luggage for Men of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Rolling Duffels of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

How to Go on Safari in Tanzania

The 9 Best Packing Cubes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Where to Go in 2021: 10 Future Trips You Can Start Planning Now

The Best Women’s Travel Pants of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

5 Ways to Make a Luxury African Safari More Affordable

The Ultimate Carry-On Packing List

Bali Packing List

The 11 Best Beach Bags of 2024

Independent Trekking in Nepal

Luxe Adventure Traveler

Adventure Travel With a Glass of Wine

What to Pack: African Safari Packing List

By Jennifer Dombrowski 31 Comments

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

Preparing for an African Safari

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

1. Prepare your documents 

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

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

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

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

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

2. Cash is king in Africa

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

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

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

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

What to Pack for an African Safari

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

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

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

1. Luggage and Packing Essentials

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. African Safari Clothes

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

Laundry Service

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

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

Where to Buy Safari Clothes

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

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

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

Pants and Long Sleeves

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

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

Earth Tones

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

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

Utility Jacket

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

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

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

Light Scarf and a Hoo-rag

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

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

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

Safari Dress

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

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

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

Safari Footwear

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Swim Suit and Casual Clothes for Around Camp

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

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

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

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

3. Waterproof Bag

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

4. Skin and Hair Care

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

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

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

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

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

5. Plug Convertors

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

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

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

6. USB Flash Drive and Memory Cards

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

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

7. Insect Repellent with Deet

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

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

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

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

8. First Aid Kit

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

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

Shop This Post

This article contains affiliate links. When you purchase anything on Amazon, Zappos, Old Navy, L’Occitane, FOREO or Columbia Sportswear through our affiliate sites, we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Loved this post? We love when you share our content! ~ Jen & Tim

About Jennifer Dombrowski

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

March 5, 2014 at 10:53 AM

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

Jennifer Dombrowski says

March 10, 2014 at 3:17 PM

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

Heather says

March 5, 2014 at 5:07 PM

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

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

March 10, 2014 at 3:18 PM

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

Devlin @ Marginal Boundaries says

March 5, 2014 at 7:29 PM

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

March 10, 2014 at 3:22 PM

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

Val-This Way To Paradise says

March 6, 2014 at 5:21 AM

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

March 10, 2014 at 3:23 PM

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

Travel with Kevin and Ruth says

March 6, 2014 at 4:39 PM

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

March 6, 2014 at 6:40 PM

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

March 6, 2015 at 9:46 PM

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

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

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

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

March 6, 2014 at 9:05 PM

What exactly is a “yellow fever health card”?

March 10, 2014 at 3:26 PM

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

Suzanne says

March 7, 2014 at 5:40 AM

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

March 10, 2014 at 3:28 PM

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

Arianwen says

March 9, 2014 at 4:13 AM

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

March 10, 2014 at 3:30 PM

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

March 9, 2014 at 8:24 PM

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

March 10, 2014 at 3:31 PM

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

Ron | Active Planet Travels says

March 27, 2014 at 8:51 PM

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

Marsha says

April 11, 2014 at 8:13 PM

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

Ellen Blau says

December 28, 2017 at 1:57 PM

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

August 11, 2018 at 2:19 AM

Thanks for the great tips.

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

July 30, 2022 at 1:51 AM

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

July 31, 2022 at 12:20 PM

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

Hope that helps answer your question!

March 11, 2023 at 4:22 AM

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

Karol Young says

March 11, 2023 at 9:19 PM

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

Anne MacKenzie says

September 21, 2023 at 10:31 PM

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Destinations

Wild Junket

What to Pack for Safari: My Safari Packing List

Last Updated on March 18, 2024

If this is your first time on safari, packing can be a daunting task. Here’s a detailed safari packing list.

I’m a firm believer in ‘less is more’. The less you pack, the more convenient it will be to move around and the happier you’ll be.  We almost always travel with carry-on only (even when traveling with our 3-year-old daughter) — so it was no exception on our recent trip to southern Africa.

This June, we traveled around South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho for 16 days. It was the start of winter and the temperature was mild. That meant we didn’t need much warm clothing, all we had to pack was light, breathable clothing with just two extra layers for cold nights.

We’ve been on safari many times, in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana and South Africa, so we are familiar with packing for safari. But i f this is your first time on safari, packing can be a daunting task. I’ve put together an African safari packing list to help you be ready for your safari adventure.

Table of Contents

Where Are You Going on Safari?

What is your baggage allowance, what to expect on an african safari, vaccination card, first aid kit, insect repellent with deet, electronics: camera and lenses, portable power bank, logbooks and wildlife guide for kids, clothing & backpacks: carry-on backpacks, packing cubes, breathable, earth-toned clothing, long (zip-off) pants, waterproof jacket, safari clothes for adults, safari clothes for kids, first-aid kit:, electronics:, other essentials:, packing for your african safari , what to pack for safari.

While your packing list will not vary too much on your travel dates, it’s important to know which season you’re visiting get a better idea of the weather there.

For southern Africa ( South Africa , Namibia, Botswana, Swaziland ), June to September is the best time to visit. During this period, there is less vegetation and animals are more concentrated around rivers and waterholes, making it easier to spot them. There are also fewer mosquitos.

However, it can get cold in the evenings during this time of the year. That means you’ll need to bring a down jacket or two layers for game drives at sunrise and sunset. In general, winter is very mild in Southern Africa; temperatures in the lowlands range from 12 to 25 degrees Celsius, and in the mountains from 3 to 10 degrees Celsius.

It is the same for East Africa : the best wildlife viewing months are from June to October. The wildebeest migration usually reaches the Masai Mara in July and remain until October when they move back to the Serengeti in Tanzania. However, if you’re visiting during rainy season, it can be very hot, humid and rainy especially in the highlands.

This can be tricky as baggage allowance can be very limited if you are taking a bush flight. We did not take any charter flight on this trip, but we have flown on charter flights with very strict luggage requirements. For instance, SkySafari only allows 15 kilograms or 33 pounds per person including camera equipment.

Some charter flights might not even allow you to use a hard suitcase. That means you’ll need to use a soft trolley bag, backpack or duffel bag. We traveled with just one carry-on backpack each and I had everything I needed for the trip. I also always carry an extra lightweight foldable duffel bag , in case I buy extra stuff or need more space.

It’s useful to know your baggage allowance and requirements before leaving for the trip, so make sure to double check that with your safari operator or airline. My advice, is to pack light and you won’t have any issues!

A typical day on an African safari usually starts early in the morning, depending on the season you’re traveling and which part of Africa you’re traveling.

In general, you’ll go on a morning game drive at 5 or 6 am and return around 10 or 11am for a heavy breakfast. The rest of the day is leisure, where you get to enjoy the safari lodge (swim, read or just watch animals from the comfort of your bed). In the late afternoon, you’ll go on another game drive at around 4 or 5pm, and return after sunset around 7pm.

Game drives always take place in the early morning and evenings as those are the best times to spot wildlife. Animals are most active at those hours, either grazing, hunting for food, or drinking at the water hole.

Note: It is typically quite cold on the early morning game drives, especially in winter. Wear all the layers you have, and then you can remove them as the morning sun gets warmer.

Here are the essential items that you will definitely need for an African safari, regardless of the time of the year you’re traveling. Scroll to the bottom to get a packing checklist.

Make sure to check what vaccinations are mandatory and recommended for your destination a few months before the trip. Check the CDC website and consult your doctor. Some shots come in a series, so you will need a few months before departure to get them done.

The yellow fever vaccination is mandatory to travel certain parts of Africa, such as Tanzania. You will be asked to show your yellow fever health card upon arrival at the airport. Other suggested vaccinations for East Africa include meningitis, typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and cholera.

The reason why we chose southern Africa for our daughter’s first African safari was because the region is free of malaria and yellow fever.

We pack light, but we always make sure to have a well-stocked first aid kit (essential when traveling with kids). Keep in mind that you are in the African bush and the nearest town or village might be hours away. Even if you’re near a town, they might not have the kind of medication you need. If you don’t already have one, you can get a world travel kit  online that’s all packed and ready to go.

Be sure to pack a first aid kit with basic medications like paracetamol, antihistamine for reactions to insect bites, diarrhoea medication for food poisoning, and cough drops. For kids, we also always make sure to have neosporin, band-aid, and a small thermometer.

Most of East Africa are high-risk malaria areas, so be sure to get malaria medication at home before your trip. Malarone is the most popular medication, but side-effects include hallucination. You’ll need to start taking it a few days before your trip and continue for a few weeks after the trip. It’s not advisable for kids under five to take malaria medication.

This is essential especially if you’re traveling in high-risk malaria areas. It’s always better to prevent bites, even if you’re taking anti-malaria pills.

We brought two insect repellents containing DEET : one for adults, another for kids. Because there weren’t so many mosquitoes in southern Africa during winter, we didn’t end up using them much — only in the lower veld area in Swaziland and the St Lucia estuary in South Africa.

My favorite brand is Care Plus ; I’ve used them many times and they’ve worked really well. They’ve got different options for kids. DEET has been tested and approved as safe for kids. Choose a repellent with no more than 10% to 30% concentration of DEET for kids. Generally, repellent with DEET should not be applied more than once a day, and is not recommended for babies younger than 2 months old.

Shop for Insect Repellent

Trust me, you’ll want to have an SLR camera and long-focus lens (at least 200mm) when on an African safari — whether you have any knowledge on photography or not. You’ll naturally want to capture everything on a wildlife safari, and a normal point-and-shoot or phone camera won’t be enough to take sharp and clear images of the animals up close.

We brought our Canon EOS 60D camera , which is an SLR that we’ve been using for many years now. I’ve used it on all seven continents and it’s been the most trusty gear I’ve traveled with. We also brought two lenses: a 70-300mm auto-focus Tamron (essential for close-up shots of wildlife) and a Sigma 8-16mm ultra wide-angle lens . I regretted not carrying my usual 80-200mm for portrait and landscape shots. 

If you’ve been wanting to upgrade to an SLR, now would be a good time. Plus SLRs are no longer as expensive as they used to. For those who are not ready for the transition, consider getting a micro system camera (hybrid camera), which works like an SLR but is small, lightweight and has automatic features. A model that everyone raves about is Sony Alpha a7II mirrorless camera , that’s very affordable for all the quality features it has.

Don’t forget to bring extra memory cards as you definitely don’t want to run out of space in the middle of a lion hunt! I unfortunately ran out of memory when we were just a few feet away from a polar bear in the Svalbard. For more on my electronics and camera gear, check out  this list of tech gear I always travel with.

Shop for Camera Gear here!

If you’re staying in safari tents or accommodation with limited electricity, then you might not be able to charge your devices every night. I always travel with my RAVPower portable power bank , as it makes charging my iPhone and other electronics so much easier and more convenient. I’ve used it for four years now and it still hasn’t failed me.

Among the three of us, we have two iPhones, a Kindle, an iPad, and a camera that need charging. Having a portable power bank that has multiple USB ports is really useful to charge several devices at one go.

Shop for a Power Bank

There’s really no need to pack anything special for an African safari with kids — except for one thing: binoculars. These lifesavers will keep your kids interested and engaged during the rides. Regardless of how old your kids are, a pair of binoculars allows them to be engaged and join in the fun of spotting wildlife.

I have a pair of Olympus Trooper 8×40 DPS1 binoculars , which was a birthday present from Alberto. It’s high quality, not too heavy, and comfortable to use — even Kaleya can use it to spot animals. But there’s no need to spend hundreds on a top-end binoculars (unless you go wildlife watching every year); there are plenty of affordable binoculars you can buy online.

You can also buy a kids’ binoculars for your child; they make great travel gifts for kids . Kaleya received this pair hers as a gift, and she’s used them on our African safari as well as trips to Costa Rica and Panama. At home, she also likes using them to pretend play. This pair of binoculars is durable and can withstand drops and falls.

Buy A Pair of Binoculars

Game drives can run up to three hours long, and can sometimes involve a lot of driving and no signs of animals. We brought an African wildlife guide book , so we could refer to it and look up what kind of animals we saw. Another safari guide book worth checking out is Fodor’s Complete Guide to African Safari , which cover many countries in one book.

If you have kids, I recommend bringing a logbook so they can keep a record of animals they saw. Kids who can read would love this safari kids’ book , which is really fun and interesting to engage them during game drives. Kaleya really enjoys this series of sticker activity books: Let’s Explore . Lonely Planet and National Geographic Kids have the best travel books for tiny explorers.

Buy an Africa Wildlife Guidebook

I wouldn’t recommend traveling Africa with trolley bags or hard suitcases. As mentioned above, some charter flights have strict requirements and baggage allowance. Besides, the rough terrain of the African savanna make pulling a trolley a pain.

We traveled with a carry-on backpack each, while our daughter had her Trunki trolley (a ride-on suitcase for kids that can only be slung over the shoulders). I also carried a small Vaude Albert messenger bag for my SLR camera, lenses, passport and wallet. It’s my daily bag that I carry everywhere with me; it is comfortable, light and has a surprisingly big capacity.

Alberto tried out the Kathmandu Transfer 28L Travel Pack for the first time on the trip and he loved it. His favorite feature is the detachable cabin pod that nests into the top compartment of the pack and holds all the things he needs in-flight: headphones, earplugs, eye mask, passport, and pen. The pack also has a harness with cool mesh panel and tuck-away hip belt, which makes it comfortable to carry around and even bring on a hike.

I traveled with the Kathmandu Federate Adapt Women’s Pack but found it quite heavy to carry. It’s an interesting “three pack sizes in one”: transforming from a 50 litre check-in pack to a 38 litre carry-on bag, to a 28 litre day pack. I love that it has lots of zipped compartments, a laptop pocket and even removable packing cells. 

Shop for Backpacks here

I cannot emphasise how important and handy packing cubes are for any type of trip. They’re one of the reasons why we manage to pack so efficiently. They also help us keep our gear organised (separate clean and dirty clothing) and make full use of the limited space we have in our carry-on backpacks.

My favorite packing cubes are the Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Compression Cubes. I’ve tried other standard packing cubes, but these ones from Eagle Creek are much more durable as they’re made of a stretchable and ultra lightweight material called Silnylon. I can pack a lot more gear into these cubes than the hard ones.

Shop for Packing Cubes

Yes. There’s a reason why everyone wears earth tone clothing on safari. They help you to blend in to the natural environment. Wearing neon pink leggings or a bright yellow shirt might scare off the animals, especially if you’re on a walking safari.

It’s also good to look for clothing made of breathable, lightweight material, as it can get pretty hot even during winter in Africa. We traveled southern Africa during their winter time; while it was chilly in the mornings and evenings, it was warm and sunny most of the time and our breathable clothing were perfect for that kind of weather.

Another important reason to wear earth-toned clothing is the tsetse fly. These lethal insects can be found in some parts of East Africa, are drawn to blue and black clothing. They can often bite through your clothes, and can be really painful. The tsetse fly has been linked with a disease called sleeping sickness.

Here’s an example of breathable, earth-toned shirts that are great for an African safari.

Regardless of which time of the year you’re traveling, you’ll need to pack long pants as they’ll protect your skin from mosquito bites and sun exposure. I recommend bringing zip-off pants i.e. pants that can be converted into shorts when the weather gets too warm. I wore long pants every morning, but would zip them off to shorts around noon when the temperature started rising.

It can be uncomfortable wearing long sleeves in hot weather, but they are useful to prevent scrapes and bites. I recommend opting for light and breathable long-sleeved shirts that are designed for trekking. If you’re doing walking safari (especially when gorilla trekking in Uganda/Rwanda), then definitely add that to your list.

We both like Columbia’s convertible pants , which have the same style/design for both men and women. They are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to pack. Kaleya practically lived in her convertible pants throughout the whole trip.

Again, no matter when you’re traveling, you’ll need a light waterproof jacket for chilly mornings/evenings or rain. We were traveling in winter time, so a good waterproof jacket definitely was essential. I had my usual soft shell waterproof jacket that’s worked really well in mild winter conditions. Alberto packed his Kathmandu ultralight stretch down jacket , which was awesome for this weather. Plus it’s super lightweight and breathable, so it was fine even in the warm afternoons.

Keep in mind that most safari jeeps are completely open-roofed (i.e. no windows or cover), so it can get really chilly during morning and evening game drives. Plus you’ll be guaranteed to get wet when it rains, so make sure your jacket is waterproof.

Buy a Waterproof Jacket now!

You won’t find credit card machines in the African bush, so make sure you get enough cash in the city before you head into the savanna. While some lodges accept credit cards, you’ll likely need some cash when visiting villages or buying souvenirs. You’ll also need cash to tip your guides and porters.

• One light jacket
• Three pairs safari pants (one of them zip-off)
• One pair shorts
• One long-sleeve shirts (light, breathable)
• Four short-sleeve shirts
• One dress (for nice dinners)
• A set of pyjamas
• A pair of hiking boots
• A pair of sandals (or Keens)
• Sports bra (for women)
• Three pairs of socks
• One down jacket (for cold winter nights)
• Three pairs zip-off safari pants
• Four short-sleeve shirts (quick dry)
• Two sets of pyjamas
• A pair of hiking boots (or walking shoes)
• A pair of sandals
• Vaccination certificate (especially yellow fever)
• Paracetamol for both adults and kids
• Anti-histamine for allergic reactions
• Anti-diarrhoea pills for food poisoning
• Anti-malaria pills (if you’re traveling in malaria risk areas)
• Cough drops
• Kids’ daily vitamins
• Portable power bank (to charge devices in lodges without electricity)
• International plug converter
• Chargers and charging cables
• iPad, Kindle or books for long car rides
• Standard toiletries
• Toothbrush/toothpaste
• Insect repellant with DEET
• Snacks for kids (yogurt and puree pouches)
• Head torch or flashlight

I hope you’ve found this article on what to pack for safari useful! Feel free to print out my safari packing list above to tick off the items as you pack. Let me know if you have any questions in the comments field below.

Leave a comment below if you have any questions!

• Best Safari Parks in Africa
• African Safari with Kids
• 2-Week South Africa Itinerary
• The Ultimate Kenya Travel Guide
• Kenya with Kids: Kenya Family Safari Guide
• The Annual Migration at Masai Mara
• Meeting the Maasai People at Masai Mara
• Staying at the Emakoko in Nairobi National Park

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

Inspired? Pin it!

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Comments

Muy completa la información Nellie

Farenexus Nexus

Amazing !! You have shared very good information and content. Good to read your blog. I am gonna make the plan for Safari. Thanks for sharing info.

This was the most helpful article I found in regards to what to wear. Thank you so much. Im still not quiet sure if I should bring my black bench coat thats downed and I think somewhat waterproof or/ just 2 sweaters and a green safari type jacket…that blocks the wind but is not entirely water proof but would hold up during a bit in rain… I am a carry only person aswell. I like that the idea of one jacket but if one gets grose thats it… Where two sweaters and the safari jacket is more of a layering idea of options… Delema… Hopefully ill figure it out…Going beginning of October..

hi Trina, where are you going in October? Perhaps check with the safari lodge or tour operator you’re traveling with for the weather? I wouldn’t travel with sweaters as they’re usually thick and heavy. The black down coat sounds more weatherproof and practical. And you can always wash your clothes there. Plus you won’t really care about staying clean when you’re on safari. It’s part of the adventure! :)

Melanie Smith

Thanks for sharing. I am visiting Kenya at the end of November and needed to start thinking about what to pack.

Lauri Littlewood

I found this so helpful. My family and I are traveling to South Africa at the end of June, beginning of July. We will be in Cape Town for about 10 days and then will go on safari for about 6 days. I know we will catch some rain in Cape Town that time of year. On safari, do we need to have full waterl-proof coats, or is water-resistant ok?

hi Lauri, thanks for dropping by! I’m happy to hear you found this article helpful. Cape Town is my favorite city in the world, I’m sure you’ll love it. Where are you going on safari? It depends on the national park or reserve you’re going, but most safari jeeps will have a cover that can be used when it’s raining. Some of them even provide large overalls or blankets that can keep you warm on the rides. That said, water resistant jackets would be enough.

stephanie contos

A couple of years ago we went on a safari in South Africa but I have always thought I brought the wrong clothes (including black)!!

Although our trip is almost a year away, I am looking for appropriate clothing now (especially since earth colors are not my thing)!! I have been looking at different sites to get an idea of what to pack on our 14 day Tanzania safari and your list is the most comprehensive and easy to follow at the same time.

Thanks for all the common sense information.

Hi Stephanie, glad you find my list useful! Great to hear you’re preparing for the trip a year in advance. Good luck with it and let me know if you have any further questions!

You May Also Like

Overlanding africa: tips and reviews, ethiopia travel guide & itinerary 2024, 40 photos of cape verde that will make you want to go there now.

Complete Safari Packing List

The golden rule here is to pack as lightly as possible . You don't want to be stuck with a lot of heavy baggage that you might not use anyway.

Space will be at a premium on your international flight, light aircraft transfers and safari vehicle so with that in mind, the safari packing list below will help you to pack only the necessary and correct items.

It may look long at first glance but depending on your personal circumstances and the type of trip you are going on some of the items won't be applicable to you and you can safely ignore them.

The safari packing list is based on the advice and recommendations from all the trip reports over the years at African Safari Journals and my own experience in packing for the hundreds of safaris ( including self drives ) that I have been on.

SAFARI GEAR

• There are specific clothing mistakes that many people often make when they go on safari. Find out how to avoid them...
• Safari hats must do three things well to be effective.
• Clothing in neutral colours: khaki, light brown/green, tan. Avoid bright colours & white for improved game viewing, especially when on foot. Not as important in a vehicle.
• A safari jacket is a very handy accessory to take with on your trip.
• Comfortable short- and long sleeved safari shirts (2 or 3 of each)
• Comfortable shorts and long trousers (2 or 3 of each)
• About 5 sets of underwear
• Swimming costume
• Flip-flops or sport sandals (public showers, airing feet)
• Comfortable safari hiking/walking shoes (not white). These are very important on a walking safari.
• About 5 pairs of socks
• Extra shoelaces

SAFARI SUPPLIES

Some of these supplies might be available in the first aid kit that every safari company should carry but make sure before leaving them off your safari packing list.

• Insect repellent/Mosquito Coil (do not use coils in a tent)
• Mosquito netting - Your safari company might supply these so find out from them first
• Sunblock and after sun lotion
• A travel towel is light and takes very little space
• Malaria tablets (very important)
• Citronella or other body soap/shower gel
• Sunglasses - make sure they have polarised lenses.
• Biological Water Filtration Bottle or you can stick to the bottled water
• Wet wipes/hand sanitizer or no-water/antibacterial soap - very handy in the safari vehicle.
• Pocket Knife (Swiss/Leatherman type)
• Small scissors, if not on your Leatherman/Swiss knife
• Toothbrush/toothpaste/dental floss
• 2-in-1 shampoo/conditioner
• Q-tips & cotton balls
• Razor & shaving cream/gel
• Birth control (enough to last your trip)
• Sanitary requirements (shops are sometimes few and far between, and very basic)
• Contact lens solution & extra set of disposable lenses
• Band aids & moleskin
• Antiseptic cream
• Motion sickness tablets
• Heartburn remedy
• Anti-diarrhoea medicine
• Re-hydration salts
• Small unbreakable mirror
• Plastic bags (wet washing/muddy shoes/organise clothes in suitcase)
• Small compass
• Deck of cards/travel size game
• Book to read between game viewing and other leisure time
• String/rope (washing line, tying sleeping bag, multitude of uses!!)
• Cold/flu tablets
• Allergy remedy
• Some people take a basic antibiotic in case
• Sterile needles (in case you need an injection and don't trust the hygiene conditions)
• Prescribed medicine (enough to last your trip) - keep packed in your hand luggage in case of baggage delays

SAFARI LUGGAGE

• The thing to remember when choosing safari luggage is mobility. You will probably be moving between several different modes of transport (airplanes, cars, light aircraft, trucks, boats) so plan accordingly.
• Suitcases with wheels don't work very well in the African bush but they are adequate if you don't mind carrying them. A good safari company will probably have someone on hand to carry your luggage for you.
• A daypack is very handy to transport the items you need while driving around in the safari vehicle or walking through the bush.

SAFARI EQUIPMENT

• Safari Binoculars . Essential for a successful trip. No safari packing list is complete without them.
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Camera, memory cards, extra batteries, battery charger and lens cleaner
• Read the free "Better Safari Photography" ebook for information on the best safari cameras and lenses to take with.
• Small bean bag to substitute a tripod
• Sleeping Bag if on a camping safari (may be supplied by safari company so check first)
• Travel pillow, or you can use your polar fleece/windbreaker
• Small calculator (or if you're taking your mobile phone) for currency calculations
• Washing powder/travel soap for laundry
• Plug adaptors - generally in Africa it's 3-prong round or square
• Lighter/waterproof matches
• Travel alarm clock
• Mini combination locks (keys get lost)
• Mini sewing kit
• Passport & correct visas
• Emergency phone numbers
• Africa travel insurance policy
• The African Safari Journals travel dairy book - to write your journal and record the wildlife you see. Also includes a hard copy safari packing list
• Guide book(s) covering the area you're visiting - it should include animals/birds pages for easy identification
• Your itinerary
• Addresses and mobile numbers (postcards/e-mails/texts)
• Any vaccinations certificates
• International Youth Hostel card (depending on your type of trip and accommodation)
• Phone card and international access numbers
• Extra passport photos
• Copy of your passport, kept in a separate place than your passport
• Copy of marriage certificate, if applicable especially if you recently tied the knot
• Medical history
• Copies of prescriptions
• Small stickers to label your used films, if you still use film

Follow this safari packing list and you will never have to worry about the frustration of leaving something behind or taking something that you won't need on your African safari.

Print the safari packing list out and tick the items off as you go along to make sure you don't miss anything.

If you're planning to do a self guided camping safari, find out what to take from our camping checklist .

Did I miss anything? What did you find really valuable on your safari? Let me know here...

Top Three Safari Companies

These are the best safari companies in Africa ranked by African Safari Journals using thousands of safari travel reviews.

Related Pages

Free Safari Diary

Safari Binoculars

African Visas

Mosquito Netting

Malaria Tablets

Africa Books

Africa Travel Insurance

Camping List

Shopping for a Safari; A Complete List of Things you Need

A safari experience calls for some careful planning and perhaps some shopping, too. Unless you’re an avid hiker or safari enthusiast, you may not have all the things you need, stored in your closet, to ensure your African adventure is smooth sailing. To save you from hassle, and potential travel nightmares, we’ve compiled a complete list of things you need; from luggage, to clothing, odds, and ends and even medication!You can’t afford to forget the essentials because out in the isolated African bush, there are no stores nearby to stock up on the forgotten items!Take a look at the ultimate shopping list for a safari adventure, and if you already have it all, utilize this list as a packing guide, before you jet off into the African sunset!

Soft Luggage Bag The only way to get around the African bush, if you’re not driving, is by airplane. The planes are small charter aircrafts, with minimal space in the luggage compartment. Passengers are not allowed to bring along hard luggage bags, as they don’t fit into these designated luggage spots, therefore, one needs to take a soft luggage bag that can easily be stored. A Back-pack for all the Cameras and Chargers Seeing as you’ll be taking plenty of photo’s of the magical surroundings and beautiful wildlife, your camera is going to end up becoming an extension of you, and you’ll be using it every minute of the day. It will be used so often, that you’ll also need to charge it frequently, and rummaging through your main luggage bag, for a small charger, can easily become a nightmare.The best thing to do is bring along a backpack, just for all the cameras and chargers, so that you can easily find all the things you need!

Neutral Coloured Clothing It’s essential that you wear clothing that blends in with the surroundings. Stay away from colours such as white, black, and any bright colours such as red and yellow. The people sport camouflage attire, are usually the ones that see more wildlife , as the animals aren’t fond of bright colours. Choosing the right clothing, also ensures safety, as some animals feel threatened by bright colours, and may decide to sort you out! Safari Hat Your best bet for ultimate protection is a hat that covers the back of your neck, your ears and gives shade to your face. Otherwise, opt for a peak cap. The African sun should not be underestimated! Summer Clothing During the day, whether it’s during the summer or the winter months, the daytime sun is blistering hot. So, pack in summer clothes, but make sure the clothing still covers your skin, to further protect you from the sun. Fleece Jacket and Jersey In the early mornings and evenings, the temperatures can drop drastically, especially in winter. Make sure to pack in fleeced jerseys and jackets, to keep warm. Safari vans are open-air vans, which means the breeze will be fairly icy if you aren’t prepared. Warm Sleepwear As mentioned above, the evenings can get bitterly cold, especially during winter. To ensure you have a good night's sleep, without shivering the night away, pack in warm sleepwear! Hiking Boots Hiking boots are essential when you’re trotting about in the bush. You’ll most likely experience a walking safari while you’re venturing in Africa, and you’ll need footwear that is suitable for the rough terrain. It’s all about comfort as well as protecting your ankles when you’re treading on unlevel ground. Thick Socks Thick socks are a must, especially if you are wearing hiking boots. Not only are hiking boots fairly rigid, the socks will ensure further comfort.

Accessories

Sunglasses With the sun almost always shining brightly in Africa, sunglasses are a great idea! Stainless Steel Water Bottle A water bottle that will keep your water cold, is a must-have item. Some lodges give you a water bottle, but you want to have your own one, just in case. Game drives can sometimes last the whole day and you’ll want to freshen up, especially on the warm days! Binoculars Most of the wildlife will allow you to come up close to them, however, there’s some that aren’t as eager, for your visit. For those guys, you’ll need a set of Binoculars, to get a better glimpse. You also don’t want to miss out on the stunning birdlife, in Africa! Camera’s, Camera Chargers and Extra Batteries By now you know that you'll definitely need your camera, to capture those breathtaking moments, and we can assure you; there’ll be many! Your camera will be getting plenty of use, so make sure to pack in your charger, and to be extra safe; stock up on some more batteries!

Medical Essentials

Prescription Medication This needs little explanation! Prescription meds should NOT be left behind, ever! Any Other Tablets you May Need Even if you hardly ever get sick, or feel the pain of headaches, heartburn, muscle pain, or any sort of cramp or allergy, just pack in the medication for these, in case. There really is nowhere to buy these meds, out on the open plains, in the heart of Africa. Sunscreen Sunscreen is a no-brainer. The sun belts down from morning ‘till evening and you want to stay protected at all times! You will also want to pack this in your safari back-pack, so that you can apply extra sunscreen, during the day, when you’re out on a safari drive!If you have all these essential items, we’re confident that you'll be ready to take on Africa ! Now, all that’s left is to get your passport, visa and flight tickets ready, and you’re good to go!

More Stories from Archive

Complete Maasai Mara Packing List (Plus 4 Things you Forgot)

The Mara has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and visiting this Park should be on your bucket list. I have visited the Mara and a few other National parks in Kenya and the one thing that can make your trip truly miserable is forgetting something crucial.

In this post, I have prepared a list that you can use to prepare for your safari in the Mara.

Masai Mara Packing List

1. loose fitting clothes.

Kenya is hot and at times humid and you will need to wear comfortable clothes that are not too warm or too tight.  A normal day will range around in the 75° F / 24°C so dress appropriately for this kind of weather.

Try to choose neutral colours that are not too bright since you are easily going to be spotted by animals and scare them away when out on game drives.

The evenings tend to be around 62°F /  17°C in the mara and at some times of the year, it may be colder. Carry a sweater with you to ensure that you do not catch a cold on such chilly nights.

3. Sneakers/hiking boots

There will be a lot of thorns and rocks in the Masai Mara and if you’re going to be walking in the bush you are likely to expose your feet to a lot of these.  To ensure that your feet stay comfortable during your entire stay at the mara, ensure that you carry a good pair of hiking boots or sneakers that are completely covered up and if possible waterproof.

4. Your phone

This may probably go without saying but you need to carry your phone with you all for taking impromptu pictures and staying connected to the outside world.  you may assume that you have come to get away from it all but you never know when you might need to make a quick phone call or be in an emergency that requires you to make a call.

Your hotel or comp may have wi-fi and this will allow you to connect with the outside world.  you’ll be spending some time in the mara and also traveling to other parts of the country you may want to buy a sim card once you arrive in Kenya to allow you to communicate and make calls directly from your phone .  the Safaricom network is the best for this and will serve you well. they have really good coverage and the network quality is also good. when you buy the sim card make sure that you top up the line with about $10 of airtime.

Depending on the size of laptop you have you may want to leave this at home but if you have extra space and the need to use a larger device during your stay at the mara, it may be useful to carry.  over and above the weight limits in the airports you’ll also need to worry about keeping your device safe especially when you’re going to be out on game drives since you may not want to carry it with you in the tour van.  my advice would be for you to leave it at home and carry something like an ipad instead.

6. Sunscreen

The sun in the Masai mara is really hot and you will need to protect yourself from the harmful rays by carrying and using good sunscreen during your excursions in the game park. Make sure you carry enough since you may need to apply it several times in a day especially if your skin is very sensitive.

7. Binoculars

 carrying a pair of binoculars when going to the masai mara may seem  very ‘touristy’ but these will be very useful during your game drives. Owner number locations you may spot an animal especially some of the predators but they will be too far away to observe them in detail.  since 2010 and not allowed to get out of the designated paths you may have spotted and I know but it may be too far for you too photograph or view closely and a pair of binoculars will be very useful in this occasion.

Here is an affordable pair that I found on Amazon. It has an adaptor for your smartphone and a carrying case.

8. Socks that absorb sweat

With all the time that you’re going to be spending outside your feet will get sweaty and a good pair of socks will help you stay comfortable even in such times.

9. Sunglasses

It normally gets really bright outside especially from noon to around 3pm.  a good pair of sunglasses will help protect your eyes from the sun’s rays and the make you look really cool too.

10. Water bottle

carry an empty water bottle with you and we feel it when going out for game drives. Your tour van may have water in there but it’s best to come prepared just in case they don’t have the water or you may not like the way it tastes.

11. Mosquito Repellent

The masai mara has mosquitoes and you’ll need to come prepared for these.  it is important to check with your hotel whether they have treated mosquito nets in the beds.  however, on top of this, you will need to have mosquito repellent for when you will be outside especially in the evening.

12. Ointment(insect bite relief)

even with repellent you are going to get bitten by mosquitoes once in a while and if you’re not used to it it’s going to leave a bump that will feel rather itchy. This is where an ointment will come in handy in relieving the itch and reducing the rash.

13. Swimwear

if your hotel has a swimming pool, a swimsuit will come in handy.  

14. Sandals / Flipflops

These will be very useful especially when your in your room. Some of the rooms have complimentary flip-flops but it’s good to carry your own just in case they don’t.

15. Deodorant & other toiletries

You hotel me have soap, toothpaste and shampoo but it may be a good idea  to carry your own toiletries. These include deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste, skin lotion,

This may be one of the things that may be easily forgotten and will come in handy especially if your hair is messy.

Items you are likely to forget on your Packing list

First, I would like to begin with the items that you are more likely to forget to pack with you when coming to The Maasai Mara

1. Chargers for your laptop phone iPad and camera.

This is one of the items that you are most likely to forget when packing and you will be extremely miserable if your camera goes out after one day of taking photos.

One of the great ways that I saw recently is to put all your chargers onto one extension cable. Pack the chargers when fixed into the cable and do not remove them from there for the entirety of your vacation. When you need to charge your stuff, you can just take out the head of the extension cable from your bag and plug it to the wall and charge all your devices at once.

This will help you charge multiple devices if you only have one socket.  It will help you also not to forget your charger in a hotel room after you’ve checked out

2. Safety bag or lockable suitcase

with all the gadgets you will be carrying, it’s important to ensure that your stuff is safe especially when you’re out on safari and have left your things either in the hotel room or in safekeeping. The one thing you may need to consider in your list is a safety bag that you will use to carry your expensive gear .   Here is one I found on Amazon

3. Travel Adapter

Kenya uses 220 volts in its power outlets and the outlets are the square British type. If you live in the USA or in a country that uses different power outlets from the ones in Kenya, you will definitely need a travel adaptor.  these are extremely useful in ensuring that your devices are sufficiently charged and that they are not destroyed by using a power that your devices are not adapted for.

I would advise you not to come and buy the adaptor here in Kenya because it may be either too expensive or the quality of the adaptor may be poor.  plan ahead and buy one at Wal-Mart or you can buy this one that I found online .

4. Extra Memory cards for your camera

If you are anything like me, you will take lots of pictures and anything you see around you will fascinate you enough to take about a dozen photos of it.  this means that your memory card space will start running out really soon after you arrived and you will start trying to figure out which photos you need to delete which ones you need to keep.  Internet at the Mara is not very reliable and you may not depend on uploading your photos. Your best bet is to have extra memory cards so that you won’t have to use any footage or photos that you take because you ran out of space.

Things you should not carry with you:

Plastic carrying bags.

Plastic carrying bags are banned in kenya and you will be required to surrender them at the airport when you arrive period its therefore advisable not to carry any since it may leave you things in a mess if they are confiscated. These include any zip lock bags that are made of plastic.

Very Short Skirts and shorts when going to the towns

This is not so much a rule as it is a piece of advice, people in Kenya are conservative and may not take kindly to very revealing clothing. This is especially the case when you are buying curios in the towns and exploring public places.

Conclusion,

The Maasai Mara is a beautiful place. Ensure you make the most of your trip by packing appropriately and not forgetting anything crucial.

I hope this article has been of use to you and that your trip will have been made better as a result.

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Antony Njoroge

Hi, I'm Antony & I'm from Kenya. I love traveling around Kenya when I get off from work and this website is a great way for me to share my local knowledge and tips that will help you travel well in East Africa. Having lived in East Africa my whole life, I share my personal experiences and knowledge with the goal of helping you optimize your East African Safari and make it an unforgettable expereince.

Recent Posts

Internet & WiFi in Kenya (A Complete Tourists' Guide)

If you are planning to visit Kenya any time soon, you might have wondered if Kenya has Internet and whether WIFI is easy to find. I have lived in Kenya all my life and I would love to answer this...

Is Mt Kilimanjaro Active? (And Should You Be Worried?)

If you are planning to visit Mt. Kilimanjaro like I am, you must have been doing a lot of research about your climb. During your research, you might have stumbled upon the fact that Kilimanjaro is a...

Bags designed for work, every day life, & adventure Shop canvas & leather satchels, totes, bags, & duffels

Welcome to The Safari Store UK

We are a UK company and look forward to assisting you prepare for all your adventures: at home in the UK, or away. Contact us if you have any questions | Help & FAQs

Fast UK Delivery

Get fast delivery from our base in the UK by courier. Find out more about UK delivery & delivery offers . Change country & currency >

Don't leave home without Bushman Insect Repellent

For anything you do outdoors - from safari, to camping, to gardening - use Bushman Insect Repellent for the best outdoor protection from biting bugs & insects. Add Bushman to your Basket or find out more about the Bushman Benefits .

Bestselling Women's Serengeti T-Shirt

Shop Short Sleeve | Shop Long Sleeve

Sun Protection Safari Clothing

Opt for high-UPF hats & safari clothing styled for sun-filled days

Shop: Hats | Clothing | Sunscreen

Anti-Insect Safari Clothing

Get the best insect protection by wearing our anti-insect clothing & insect repellent

Shop: Men’s | Women’s | Kids’ | SPECIAL OFFERS: Bushman repellent

New Women's Joggers with Stretch

Women's Safari Shirts

Timeless Safari-Style meets Performance

Our women's safari shirts & safari jackets combine safari-inspired style & feminine cuts, with outdoor functionality & protection from the elements

Shop women's tops: Women's Safari Shirts | Women's Safari Jackets & Fleeces

Expert advice: Safari Shirt Advice Guide

Shop Women's Safari Clothing >

Men's Safari Shirts

Ruggedly Sophisticated for Outdoor Life

Authentic, classical safari shirt styling. Shop safari shirts & safari jackets which effortlessly take you from the city to the Serengeti. Insect & Sun defence

Shop men's tops: Men's Safari Shirts | Men's Safari Jackets & Fleeces

Shop Men's Safari Clothing >

- Popular Categories -

Your time in the outdoors is precious. Our clothing and gear is expedition tested™ to ensure that you make the most of every second of each adventure. We take you from the boardroom to the backcountry; from the couch to your favourite climb.

Women's Safari Hats

Sun Protection Meets Safari Style

Our women's safari hats combine high level UPF sun protection with safari style to suit all occasions. Shop safari hats for summer, safaris & outdoor adventure

Expert advice: Safari Hat Advice Guide

Shop Women's Safari Hats >

Men's Safari Hats

Sophisticated or Sporty? You Decide

Decide where to go next with our safari hat range. Shop high sun-protection safari hats which adapt to any situation, from safari to summer outdoor excursions

Shop Men's Safari Hats >

WILD ABOUT STYLE Rufiji™ APU Combat Safari Boots

Men's Anti-insect Fleece-lined Jacket

Women's Anti-insect Everything Safari Shirt

Explorer II Safari Duffel

Women’s Pioneer Anti-insect Safari Trousers

Rufiji™ BLACK - The Satchel

Women's Pioneer Anti-insect Safari Jacket

FOR SUMMER & SAFARI Canvas Safari Hat Buy now

KGALAGADI: The magic of nowhere Read & shop

KAFUE: Claire's River Recce Diary

THANDA TENTED CAMP An iPhone-only Safari Read & shop

FUGITIVES' DRIFT LODGE An iPhone-only Safari Read & shop

ZAMBEZI EXPEDITION Sailing & sketching this iconic river Read & shop

iPHONE-ONLY SAFARI A mobile adventure Read & shop

Okavango Delta: Expedition into the Unknown

STEVE BACKSHALL Meet our toughest client Read & shop

STYLE & PERFORMANCE Men's Anti-insect Everything Safari Shirt Shop now

THE OUTDOOR SAFARI CLASSIC Women’s Anti-insect Safari Shirt Buy now

THE BUILD-YOUR-BAG HOLDALL Mara&Meru™ Voyager Shop now

OUTDOOR PROTECTION Bushman™ Ultra Insect Spray Buy now

DON'T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT Vortex Diamondbacks Shop now

- Favourite Safari Styles -

- SHOP YOUBUY, WEGIVE -

Our YOUbuy, WEgive projects are all about making a difference in Africa.

Find out more: YOUbuy,WEgive Projects

Thusk™ Knitwear Project

The Thusk™ Knitwear Project employs Zulu grannies in Africa to hand-knit luxury 100% South African wool beanies, scarves & heandbands. Shop Thusk™ - you will already feel a little warmer

Find out more: Thusk™ Knitwear Project

Shop Thusk™ >

Rufiji™ APU Boots Project

The men and women tasked with walking on patrol to protect the wilds of Africa often do not have good shoes - and so in our usual way we designed and tested our own boots for these denizens of the conservation world. We periodically donate Rufiji APU Boots to APU teams in Africa

Find out more: Rufiji™ APU Boots Project

Shop Rufiji™ APU Boots >

- GOING ON SAFARI? -

While the outdoors are at our core, safari is in our hearts. With safari experts on our team and safari in our name, it is no surprise that we are able to offer our clients the best safari packing information and advice available today. We encourage all our clients who love the outdoors but have never been on safari to go to Africa. It is magical - and very outdoors-orientated. Get safari-inspiration by reading our safari stories.

Get your FREE Safari Packing List created by our experts

Safari packing advice.

Visit our expert advice packing pages to find out what you should take on safari with you and why.

Where there is safari, great stories inevitably follow. Share in our world through informative and inspirational stories.

- RECENT STORIES -

Read: All stories

Boardroom to Backcountry

Classic summer combinations for Men

Read & shop

Virtual expedition: Okavango

Planning, rowing & writing about the Okavango Delta during lockdown

'It's always summer somewhere'

We discuss why safari clothing may just be the best outdoor clothing

Safari in Paris

Stroll through the Paris safari lookbook for style inspiration as we take in the sights in the City of Lights

Worldwide Delivery

We are a UK outdoor company who also delivers to clients worldwide. Through our courier partners, we offer affordable and fast delivery to most countries including the UK, EU, and USA. For delivery options, free delivery offers, pricing, and terms for your country, please go to our dedicated delivery page and select your country. As always please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any questions.

At The Safari Store, we are proud to design, expedition test™, and make clothing, luggage, and gear for clients who love the outdoor life and, of course, safari. We are guided by our desire to marry safari-inspired style with high-performance materials and designs so that you not only look good but also feel great the next time you walk out your front door. We want to be your partner wherever you choose to explore - whether it be a walking safari in Africa, a walk on the Inca trail, or a walk to meet friends at your favourite local pub or restaurant. Click here to find out more about our story and what motivates us.

"Thanks for fab service"

This website uses cookies for it's shopping basket, you must have cookies enabled in order to use this site.