Safari packing list - incl. FREE PDF checklist

Embarking on a safari holiday is an exhilarating experience that promises thrilling wildlife encounters and breathtaking natural beauty. As you prepare for your safari adventure, it’s crucial to pack wisely to ensure your comfort and enjoyment throughout the trip.

In this guide, we will provide you with an essential safari packing list, including tips on what to wear on safari.

Safari luggage and packing tips

When it comes to safari luggage, travel light and opt for lightweight, durable options.

3 tips for packing your safari luggage:

• Choose a soft-sided duffel bag or backpack that is easier to carry and fit in safari vehicles.

• Safeguard your belongings from dust and unexpected rain showers by packing a waterproof bag or protective cover.

• Keep your belongings organised and save space by using packing cubes or compression bags. These can help maximize the limited storage.

It’s a good idea to check your maximum luggage allowance before beginning packing to avoid any extra fees. This is typically around 20kg of luggage per person.

If you are travelling as a couple or a group, we recommend packing in such a way that you can manage if one suitcase is delayed. Suitcases do sometimes get delayed, and it is nice to have a fresh set of clothes, etc. in your travel companion’s suitcase if this happens.

What to wear on safari

When it comes to safari outfits, striking a balance between functionality, comfort and your personal style can be a little tricky. There is no specific safari dress code. And you don’t necessarily have to look like a guide from a National Geographic nature programme.

Consider the following tips for what to wear on safari:

• Neutral-coloured clothing made of lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics. These are ideal for sun protection. Avoid bright colours that may attract insects.

• Pack a mix of long pants and shorts for versatility. Go for quick-drying materials and consider convertible pants that can transform into shorts.

• A lightweight, multi-pocketed vest or jacket. This is perfect for carrying essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera.

• A wide-brimmed hat and polarised sunglasses. The sun is fierce, and sunscreen is not always enough protection from the sun. So, it is important to protect yourself with a hat with a brim/sun visor and sunglasses.

• Bring comfortable shoes or sandals. Make sure your shoes are comfortable. If you are going on a bush walk, you will need to bring closed-toe shoes. These can also be beneficial in the evening to protect from mosquitoes.

Safari packing list

Download our free safari packing checklist here.

Use this handy packing list to check off your gear as you pack your bags for safari.

Our destinations are different, so our packing list recommendations may vary. See, for example, our packing list for a safari in Tanzania and our packing list for Kilimanjaro.

Hand luggage essentials

Be sure to have the most essential items in your hand luggage. If the worst happens and your luggage is delayed, it is important to have the things you can’t do without on hand.

• Passport (valid and with visa)
• Money, tickets and any other valuables
• Vaccination papers
• Copies of personal papers in your own and your travelling companion’s suitcase
• This might include passports, visas, airline tickets, insurance papers, vaccination cards, driving licences, etc.
• List of phone numbers to cancel lost payment cards, for example, or for contacting your insurance company, etc.
• Any vital or prescription medicine
• A change of clothes

Clothing & footwear

Most safari lodges in Africa provide laundry service, sometimes for a small fee, so there is no need to overpack.

• Light/neutral (cotton) summer clothes for safaris
• Short/long-sleeved T-shirts, tops, shorts, and long trousers
• Slightly smarter clothes for the evenings at the lodge or hotel
• Underwear
• Cotton socks
• Windbreaker or the like for chilly mornings/evenings
• Lightweight rain jacket
• Swimwear
• Wide-brimmed hat
• Bandana or light scarf
• Closed-toe walking shoes/boots
• Sandals
• Evening shoes

Toiletries

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Contact lenses/glasses
• Mosquito repellent (preventive and anti-itch)
• Sun cream
• Lip balm
• Nail clippers and file
• Earplugs

Medications

Store any vital prescriptions in their original containers in your carry-on bag and make sure to pack enough for your entire trip.

Medications could include:

• Allergy medicines
• Painkillers
• First aid kit (plasters, disinfectant wipes, etc.)
• Motion sickness tablets
• Anti diarrhoea

Electronics & photography

• Mobile phone/camera chargers
• Headphones
• Digital camera
• Binoculars
• Camera lens cleaner
• Extra batteries/memory cards for camera
• Plug adaptors (In Africa it is generally the 3-prong round or square, just like in the UK)

Travel essentials

• Luggage tag/luggage lock
• Day pack
• Books/E-reader
• Packing cubes
• Notebook
• Sunglasses
• Sleeping mask/ear plugs
• Snacks
• Thermos mug, so you can have coffee in the vehicle

What NOT to pack

• Drones
• Camouflage clothing (in some African countries, it is illegal for civilians to wear camouflage clothing)
• Plastic bags (these are prohibited in some African countries – includes plastic bags from “Duty Free”)

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller