It’s like nothing else to go on a trip and be in the middle of the wild. Whether you want to see the “Big Five” in Africa or explore lush reserves in Asia, safaris will give you memorable experiences with nature. However, there is a catch: your experience may rest on what you pack. Making a well-thought-out safari pack isn’t just about making it easy to carry; it’s also about making sure it works well, is safe, comfortable, and doesn’t harm the environment too much.
This personalized packing list will show you everything you need to bring on the trip of your dreams, from basic clothes to high-tech gadgets and personal care items. You and the environment will both be happy with the tips we give you on how to travel sustainably.
Figuring out How You Like Safari
There are different kinds of tours. It’s important to know everything about your trip before you start packing. What you pack for a desert trip in Namibia will be very different from what you pack for an adventure in Uganda’s dense, rainy jungles.
1. Climate
Safaris take you through a lot of different landscapes and weather conditions. The weather where you’re going will affect what you pack a lot, from hot days to cool nights.
- When you’re in a hot, dry place, you should wear light, open clothes and sunscreen.
- For rainy places, bring protective gear and light, quick-drying clothes.
- For early morning and evening game drives, bring clothes that will keep you warm on cold or Alpine safaris.
2. How long
You only need a carry-on for a short weekend trip. Longer trips that last more than one day, on the other hand, might need extra things like extra toiletries or clothes that can be worn with different things.
3. Things to do
Your plans are important. Every action, from walking safaris to canoeing with animals, needs the right gear. Check to see what your trip includes, then make plans based on that.
What You Need to Wear for the Savanna (or Other Terrains)
When it comes to jungle clothes, comfort and usefulness go together. The important thing is to bring bland, earthy colors that will help you fit in and not scare the animals.
1. Layers That Let Air Flow
- Why it’s important: Safaris often have cool mornings and very hot afternoons.
- shirt that isn’t too heavy (long-sleeved to protect against bugs and the sun).
- As the nights get cooler, a good blanket or light jacket.
- Pants that are comfortable, like cargo pants, that let air flow and last a long time.
2. Avoiding the sun
Outside, the sun is very strong. To stay safe, carry these things:
- A hat with a wide brim that blocks UV rays.
- shades that block UV light.
- A bandana or scarf that is light to cover your neck.
3. Shoes that are good for safari
Leave the flashy walkers behind. For comfort and ease of use,
- Strong boots or shoes for going on trails.
- Sandals that are easy to walk in for relaxing at the lodge.
- Lightweight socks that keep your feet dry and fresh.
4. A Variety of Choices
Well-made pieces can go from a casual morning at the lodge to a fancy dinner there. Look for stylish clothes that won’t wrinkle and that are also useful. Eco-friendly clothing stores like Patagonia and Prana have great safari-ready clothes.
Things that a modern explorer needs
When you use technology, it makes your situations much better. The right gear is very important for your trip when you’re out in the wild.
1. Zoom glasses
Get a good pair of lightweight binoculars with an 8×42 lens if you want to see wildlife far away. Options that you can trust include brands like Nikon and Bushnell.
2. Cameras
With the right gear, you can record those once-in-a-lifetime events.
- You can get great pictures of wildlife with a DSLR or mobile camera that has a zoom lens.
- Not interested in the bulk? Smartphones with optical zoom are surprisingly good for taking pictures these days.
3. Power banks and chargers
Safaris can use a lot of technology, so make sure you have enough power.
- Bring a portable solar charger or power bank with you so you can charge your electronics.
- An adapter or power strip is helpful because some hotels don’t have a lot of electricity.
4. Other Handy Tools
- A torch or headlamp that you can count on for the dark.
- Noise-cancelling headphones can help you relax on long planes or trips.
- A small and light rucksack for day trips.
Must-Haves for Health and Safety
Even though trips are a lot of fun, you should always put your health and safety first. Being ready makes sure you don’t miss out on something because of a small problem or a possible risk.
1. A first-aid kit.
Most hotels and operators will have a lot of first-aid supplies, but it’s still a good idea to bring your own. These should be included:
- Pain killers, bandages, and antiseptics.
- Medications to stop diarrhea (just in case the local food is too daring).
- For bug bites or allergies, antibiotics are helpful.
2. A bug and mosquito repellent
In some places, diseases like malaria that are spread by mosquitoes can be a problem. Use a bug spray with DEET or a natural pyrethrin substitute. For extra protection, don’t forget to bring mosquito wristbands or bug sprays that are safe to use outside.
3. Getting the right shots
Make sure you have all the shots you need and bring proof with you if asked. Check early on to see if you need to get a Yellow Fever or Hepatitis shot before you go to a popular location.
4. Personal care items for peace of mind
- Eco-friendly wet wipes that are easy to clean up.
- Hand sanitizer for times when you can’t get running water.
- Use biodegradable soap to help the earth.
Packing Eco-Friendly
If you go on safari, you will be visiting fragile ecosystems that need your respect and care. If you want to travel in an eco-friendly way, here are some tips:
- Instead of single-use water cups, buy ones that you can use again and again.
- Use eco-friendly products, like shampoos and sunscreen that break down naturally.
- Buy gifts made by local artists instead of mass-produced ones to support them.
- Sustainability is important to a lot of safari resorts and parks. By working together, we can make sure that these amazing journeys will be possible for generations to come.
Feel confident as you get ready for Safari
It doesn’t have to be hard to pack for a trip. If you plan ahead, your trip can go smoothly and be full of fun without having to worry about uncomfortable boots or forgetting important things. Check out our full Safari Packing Checklist here to make your planning even easier, or get in touch with one of our travel experts for help planning the perfect trip!
Now, get your glasses and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget set against some of the most beautiful scenery on Earth.
