safari kit bag

15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure

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

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

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

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

Top 5 Best Safari Bags

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: Best Safari Bags

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

What Type of Safari are You going on?

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

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

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

Practicality vs Style

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

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

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

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

Size Considerations

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

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

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

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

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

Material and Durability

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Types of Safari Bags and Product Recommendations

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

Duffel Bags

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

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

The Top Five Best Safari Duffel Bags:

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

Hiking Bags

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Safari Hiking Bags:

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

Vintage Bags

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

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

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

The Top Five Best Safari Vintage Bags:

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

Other Safari Items We Can Not Live Without?

Camera Gear:

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

Camera Bag: Vanguard Alta Sky 45D .

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

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

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

Safari Hat: Panama Jack Men’s Mesh Safari Hat

Woman’s Safari Packable Khaki Summer Hat

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

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

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

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

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

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

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

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

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

The Best Safari Luggage

By Mara Balagtas and Lale Arikoglu

Image may contain Handbag Accessories Accessory Bag Luggage and Briefcase

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

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

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

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

This image may contain Handbag Accessories Accessory Bag and Briefcase

Classic Duffel Bags

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

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

Image may contain Handbag Accessories Purse Accessory and Bag

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

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

This image may contain Bag Tote Bag Accessories Accessory and Handbag

Technical Duffel Bags

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

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

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Fanny Packs

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

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

This image may contain Bag Accessories Accessory Handbag and Purse

Camera Bags

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

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

South Africa
The Ultimate Safari Planning Guide
Safari Packing List
Safari Luggage
Safari Budget Guide
Safari Reading List
First-Timer’s Tips
A Typical Day on Safari

Africa , Kenya , South Africa

The best luggage for safari holidays.

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

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

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

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

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

Best safari holdalls and duffel bags

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

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

Rufiji Canvas Duffel Bag

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

>> Click here to buy !

Rab Kit Bag II 80L

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

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

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

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

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

North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best wheelie cases for taking on safari

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

My favourite safari suitcases are right here:

Craghoppers 28” Wheelie Bag

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

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

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

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

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

Osprey Sojourn 60 Travel Pack

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cabin-friendly safari bags

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

Craghoppers 40L Holdall

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

Buy from the official Craghoppers site from £105.

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

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

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

——–

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

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

Best safari luggage – Duffel bags & backpacks for African travels

Unloading safari luggage from a small plane at the Maasai Mara airstrip

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

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

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

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

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

Best Luggage for Travel to Africa: The Basics

Off-roading in the Serengeti, in harmony with nature

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is the Best Luggage for Safari?

Driver loads safari luggage on top of a jeep

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

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

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

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

Best duffel bag for safari

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

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

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

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

Best backpack for safari

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

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

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

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

Other safari travel bags

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

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

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

How to Pick the Best Luggage for African Safari

Crossing the river whilst on safari in Tanzania

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

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

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

In Africa, you will be on the move .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Safari travel bags should be soft

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Reduce the volume of your safari bag

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Take Your Safari Luggage

Photography equipment on a land cruiser bonnet

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

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

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

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

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

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

From clothes to camera gear & first aid kit

Tusk & Mane Fly Camp Lower Zambezi National Park Zambia

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Safari packing list: Luggage

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

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

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

Duffle bags are the perfect bags to pack for a safari

Safari packing list: Clothes

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

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

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

These are the garments i bring:.

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

Camps very often provide complimentary laundry services on safari

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

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

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

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

What’s in my safari toiletry bag:

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

On safari at Musekese Camp in Kafue National Park Zambia

Toiletries that you don’t need to bring:

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

Safari packing list: Camera & Equipment

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

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

Marion Payr on a safari with a Nikon Z 8 and a 100-400mm tele zoom lens

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

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

Nikon Z 8 and a 100-400mm tele zoom lens - camera recommendation for a safari

Safari packing list: First-aid kit

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

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

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

What you you don’t need to bring:

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

Reusable water bottles are provided by camps on a safari

Safari packing list: Miscellaneous

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

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

What you you may or may not need to bring:

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

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

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

Download your free safari packing list pdf here.

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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 .

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

Thank you Bryan

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Top 10 Things To Pack for Your Safari

The golden rule of packing for any trip is that less is more. However, when going on safari there are certain things that you shouldn’t be without. So, in no particular order, here’s our list of the top 10 things to take on safari ;

1. Binoculars

It may seem an obvious one, but a decent pair of binoculars should be one of the first things in your safari kit bag. Quite simply, you’ll be able to spot more wildlife when you can zoom in from afar.

2. Mosquito Repellent

Some safari destinations are worse than others for mosquitoes, but it pays to be prepared. Mosquito repellent with DEET in it is a must for evening and night times, and if you really want to push the boat out a pack of mosquito coils for your room is a good backup.

Even if you’re no budding David Bailey, photographs are a great souvenir of your safari. Point and shoots can do the job fine, but if you want to get some real close up shots it’s all about the zoom size – no zoom’s too big for safari!

A smallish bag to take out with you – walking or in your vehicle – to keep your bits and pieces in and easy to hand. As well as the things on this list, popping some water and snacks in (fruit, biscuits e.t.c) is a good idea to keep your energy levels up through the day.

5. Sun Cream

The sun can get very fierce on safari – especially if you’re out in the midday sun. As you’ll probably spend a fair portion of time hanging out of your vehicle, protecting your skin from burning is a must.

6. Sunglasses & Hat/Bandana

It can be bright and very dusty driving or walking in most national parks, so it pays to have some measure of protection from both (see our take on what to wear on safari for a full discussion on this). Wrap-around sunglasses will offer the best protection for your eyes, whilst protection for your head is also a good idea. Bandanas are also handy as you can wear them over your mouth if you head through some particularly dusty area.

Even some of the most high-end lodges have restrictions on the hours they run their generators, meaning you may not have electricity through the night. Having a decent head torch to hand means you won’t struggle to find your way around.

8. Evening Wear

In the day time you’ll be big game spotting in your finest kakhis, but remember some evening wear too. You’ll want to change after a dusty day out, and depending on where you’re staying the dining room may be a relatively glamorous affair in the evenings.

Whilst day times can be too hot, it will get cooler in the evenings – and sometimes cold, depending on the altitude. A fleece or warm top for those dawn game drives or evenings around camp is always a welcome addition to the kit bag.

10. Sturdy Shoes

Even if you’re not planning on doing much walking during your safari, there will more than likely be some stops for lunch or visiting hides. At these times you’ll be out of the vehicle and walking around some potentially tricky terrain, so a solid pair of shoes is well advised. Simple trainers will suffice for this, though if you’re planning on doing some walking it’s worth considering a pair of waterproof shoes.

What to pack for safari in Africa? Detailed Safari Packing Guide

Neutral-colored safari -style clothing and camera gear are a must to pack for a safari, but what else and what do you have to take into account while packing for an African safari? In this complete safari packing guide, I share exactly what to pack for a safari in Africa . It helps you choose what to wear on safari, what not to wear, and which safari essentials are important to bring on a game drive . It also includes a complete African safari packing list and practical information to get prepared for your safari trip, like important travel documents, appropriate safari clothing, shoes, handy gadgets, electronics, and type of camera.

Important travel documents in preparation for your African safari

It is crucial that you prepare all the necessary travel documentation (print or digital) before you hop on a plane to your African safari destination. Your travel document checklist should include your passport (valid for at least 6 months after arriving back home), visas if needed, airline tickets , vaccination certificates (Yellow Card), insurance documents, accommodation vouchers, car-rental reservation forms, and an international driver's license if necessary.

Do I need a visa when traveling to Africa?

Visas for Sub-Saharan Africa

Many Sub-Saharan countries in Africa require a visa to enter . Check the visa requirements of your African travel destination (s) and make sure if you need a visa, what kind of visa, and how to apply for a visa. More and more countries want you to apply online, in advance, while other African countries ask you to pay cash on arrival. Most countries accept US Dollars, printed after 2009 and in good condition.

Check the local currency of the African country you're planning to visit. To most accepted foreign currencies are the US Dollar and the Euro. Bring US Dollar bills if you need a visa on arrival. I would always recommend taking a credit card and cash money. Don't exchange money with locals on the street. It’s illegal and risky. I would recommend withdrawing local cash money at an ATM machine upon arrival or exchanging your own currency at an exchange office. Cash is king in Africa as power cuts or blackouts are normal and you can't pay with your bank or credit card everywhere. Cash is also handy for souvenir shopping and tipping guides and general staff as tipping is common in Africa and very much appreciated by the locals.

Which vaccinations and antimalarials do I need for Africa?

Vaccination certificates

Required vaccinations vary per country in Africa. Most African destinations require Hepatitis A and Yellow Fever . If you’re traveling in an area with a risk for malaria, consider taking anti-malarial tablets. My best and only advice is to plan a consult with a medical travel clinic, 4-6 weeks before departure, to know exactly what’s needed for your safari trip.

Make sure your International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), also known as the Yellow Health Card , is updated with the recommended vaccines (including the date and validity of the vaccine, stamp, and signature of the doctor). It's an official vaccination report created by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is basically a kind of medical passport that is internationally recognized to enter certain countries with health risks for travelers. Personally, I've been asked for my Yellow Health Card only once during all my Africa travels and it was about the Yellow Fever certificate.

Depending on the government regulations you either need a COVID-19 vaccination certificate, a negative COVID-19 PCR test result , or a recovery certificate. For details about the latest COVID-19 regulations, it’s advised to visit the official websites of the country you are traveling to and the airline you are flying with.

Checklist of important travel documents to bring on safari

Valid Passport (required to be valid for another six months after returning)
Visa (if needed)
Airline ticket(s)
Vaccination certificates / Yellow Health Card
COVID-19 proof of vaccination, negative (PCR) test result, or recovery certificate
Insurance documents
Accommodation vouchers
Car rental reservation forms
International driver’s license (if needed for a self-drive)
Bankcard, credit card
Cash money, also in the local currency (withdraw money on arrival: it’s not always possible to pay by card plus it's useful for tips)
Photocopy of your passport

What clothes to wear on an African safari?

The best safari clothing is comfortable, lightweight, and durable. That’s necessary to adapt to the environmental conditions in Africa like heat, moisture, dust, and insects. The best clothing for an African safari offers sun and anti-insect protection and dries quickly. It’s advised to pack neutral colors, like earth tones.

Best colors to wear on Safari

Khaki, brown, sand, and green are the best colors to wear on safari . Neutral-colored earth tones work best to become part of the African bush. Dark clothes like black and blue attract heat, biting tsetse flies, and other insects. Colors you should not wear on safari are too bright or neon colors can scare the animals away. Avoid camouflage clothing, as in some African countries it’s worn by military personnel only. Also, avoid busy patterns as you don't want to draw the attention of the wildlife to you.

Wear layers on your game drive

The weather in Africa can change very quickly. It can be cold and windy in the morning, and hot during the day, plus you can always be surprised by an African rain shower. For that reason, wear layered safari clothing on your game drive and bring a hat and scarf. Wearing lightweight pants (or zip-offs) and a long sleeve light-weight blouse also helps with extra protection from insect bites and the sun. Roll up your sleeves or zip off your pants if it gets warmer.

RELATED: I also wrote a guide to game drives including 15 things to know about going on a game drive in Africa .

Safari clothes for women

Finding suitable safari clothing for women can be challenging because the clothes made for safari are often focused on men but sold as unisex. I definitely get that most women like to pack stylish safari clothing, but do realize your safari clothing still needs to be comfortable. Imagine going to the bush toilet on a game drive and you’re wearing a jumpsuit, or you need to climb in the vehicle with a short skirt. You get the point.

RUGGEDWEAR’s Tayla Jane Range

Women should definitely check out RUGGEDWEAR’s Tayla Jane Range . The clothes offer exceptional comfort, breathability, rapid drying, and a fashionable appeal. It’s one of my favorite safari clothing brands for women with the Parka as my fave item.

I also always make sure to pack RUGGEDWEAR’s blouses when I go on safari. Thanks to the breathable material, I can comfortably wear them for multiple days in a row without worrying about unpleasant odors. Plus, these clothes require no ironing after washing, and even dirt, such as mud, can be easily removed, making them a convenient and essential choice for my journeys.

Colmar for urban styles, and outdoor activities

The luxury Italian clothing brand Colmar primarily specializes in outdoor skiwear. However, their high-quality clothes are also well-suited for safari adventures. Colmar's commitment to durability, protection from the elements, functionality, breathability, and the versatility of layering make their clothing an excellent choice for both skiing and safaris.

My favorite Colmar item is this casual lightweight jacket with a fixed hood. It's convenient, comfortable, and made of thermal and water-repellent material. The side pockets and a practical adjustment drawstring make the jacket feminine and functional for safari.

Safari Clothing List

Below is a safari clothing list to use as a guideline for your safari trip. Most lodges or accommodations offer a laundry service at a small rate or even free of charge. My advice: pack light and make use of the laundry service. It’s also a great way to support (local) employees.

5-6 neutral-colored shirts and/or tops
2 long sleeve safari blouses (light and breathable)
2 sand or khaki-colored shorts
2-3 light-weight long trousers (optional are zip-offs)
a light jacket like a soft shell (water- and windproof, luxury lodges provide ponchos on their game drives)
One fleece or warm vest
Scarf or buff/bandana (handy for colder drives as well as protection from the sun)
4-6 pairs of neutral-colored socks
Underwear (take enough for 5-7 days, then do your laundry)
Swimsuit or swim shorts for the lodges that have a pool
Safari hat (I love Rogue Hats, but any neutral-colored hat is fine)
Stable safari shoes and flip-flops
Gaiters (for walking safaris )
Sport-bra for women
Ziploc bags to keep your dirty laundry separate from clean safari clothing

Formal evening wear

Formal evening wear is not necessary on safari, as most safari lodges and camps have a casual safari-style dress code . Some people like to change before they go to dinner. However, in reality, almost no one is going to their room to freshen up after the afternoon game drive as you arrive back in the dark. Most of the time you have a drink at the fire when returning from the game drive and go for a cozy Boma dinner straight after. On my first safari in Africa, I went back to the room to have a shower and change but I learned quickly that most people stay around the fire after the game drive, have dinner and go to bed early because of the early start.

Safari clothing for evening dinners in the African bush

I've had several safaris in various African countries. There were times I also packed two dresses but in reality, I almost never wore them. Sometimes around the camp in between the two game drives. It obviously depends on the kind of safari trip you're doing, but if you are in a lodge doing two game drives per day you usually wear suitable safari clothing for game drives. If you also visit a city during your safari trip, like Cape Town, I would also pack one or two dresses.

Sunset Rock Camps Bay is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Cape Town

What shoes to pack for safari in Africa?

On a safari in Africa, you need to bring sturdy footwear. Hiking boots or hiking shoes aren’t always necessary and take up a lot of space in your suitcase or backpack. If your safari trip includes walking safaris or hikes, do bring hiking shoes or trail shoes that provide enough grip and protect you from thorns.

Otherwise, comfortable, closed, and sturdy shoes are more than enough. If you are in an area with lots of insects or snakes, a higher-rise boot is recommended, or wear gaiters for extra protection. For me, insects and thorns are the main reason why I prefer to wear closed safari footwear on a game drive plus you are better protected during comfort breaks, coffee stops, and the afternoon sundowner . Normal sneakers are not the best option as thorns go straight through these soles.

Safari Shoes

My favorite safari shoes are the Authentic South African Veldskoen boots . Veldskoen boots are handmade and stitched in South Africa and often worn by local field guides. Choosing a Veldskoen means comfort and style. It will definitely complete your safari outfit. Apart from closed shoes, bring a pair of flip-flops or sandals to wear around the camp.

Safari First aid kit and toiletries

Professional medical care isn't always close when on safari. For that reason, it’s important to be prepared for medical issues. Your guide or tour operator will always have a first aid kit available. However, it’s advisable to bring a basic medical kit yourself. The most basic and crucial medical safari essentials are insect repellant, after bite, anti-malarial tablets, painkillers, and blister band Aids. In case you have any medical issues or if you use any medicines, it’s necessary to inform your guide on forehand.

Your first aid kit for safari should contain:

Prescription medicines / Antibiotics (if you currently take any)
Malaria medication (if necessary)
Paracetamol or other painkillers
Anti-diarrhea pills for food poisoning
Oral Rehydration Salts in case of diarrhea or dehydration
Anti-histamine for allergic reactions
Cough drops
Insect repellant (eco-friendly)
Lavender essential oil (functions as after bite and many more purposes like a good night of sleep)
Pads for blisters

Other toiletries to pack for your safari:

Soap, shampoo, conditioner
Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss
Feminine hygiene products
Contact lenses and fluid
Wet wipes (handy on camping trips or long drives)
Lip balm for the dry air
Face mask and hand sanitizer
Hand and body lotion
Shaving kit or razor

What camera gear should I bring on safari?

Having the most expensive camera doesn’t mean you’ll shoot the best photos because whatever camera you bring on safari, it’s critical to know how to use it. You will be disappointed if you invested a lot of money in camera gear and your pictures are too dark or blurry.

If you do know how to use a camera or if you have the time and motivation to learn how to use a camera, I would advise bringing a DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) camera with exchangeable lenses. The best zoom lenses for wildlife photography are in the range of 200-600 mm with a minimum of 200mm zoom to capture wildlife.

4X4 photography vehicle for safari in Africa

As a travel and wildlife photographer, I always bring different zoom lenses to photograph wildlife and a more wide-angle lens to capture Africa’s gorgeous landscapes, for example, the Canon 16-35mm 2.8.

To practice and learn how to use your camera, you can read the instruction manual, watch some tutorials on YouTube, take a class, and most importantly practice with different settings and conditions before departure. If you don’t have the time, motivation, or skills to learn how to take (better) photos with a DSLR, then save your money and enjoy the experience on its own.

You can try to take photos with your smartphone. Nowadays, the cameras on smartphones are pretty good, but you will definitely lose quality when you try to zoom in with your smartphone camera. Important to know about photographing in Africa is that it is considered rude in African culture to take photos of people without asking them first.

photographing wildlife Maasai Mara Kenya

Packing list for camera gear on safari

I would suggest bringing the following camera gear on safari:

A DSLR camera plus a long-range zoom lens (70-300 mm, 28-300 mm, 18-400 mm). If you bring a camera with a long-range zoom, you don’t need to switch lenses or bring different bodies
Memory cards (plenty)
Cleaning equipment (it will be dusty, so bring cleaning cloths)
Charger (you don’t want to run out of battery)
Extra batteries
Rain cover or towel (to protect your camera from rain, dust, and moist)
Ziplock bags (to protect equipment from dust)

Curious about the photography equipment I use? Check out my photography gear collection .

For the more advanced photographers , I recommend bringing:

An extra body
Different lenses (wide angles lenses, zoom lenses, etc.)
A tripod to photograph the beautiful night sky or a monopod for extra stability on your game drives
Camera remote
External hard drive
A sensor cleaner and blower brush (important when you often change lenses)
Filters (optional)

In case you are interested in a photography-focussed safari, you might want to read my blog about planning a photo safari in Africa, including 7 essential tips to consider before booking your photography safari .

Electronics to pack for safari in Africa

Power can be limited in the bush, but there are some must-have safari gadgets, like your camera, batteries, and phone that require frequent charging. In Africa, you sometimes need to deal with power cuts or blackouts .

The location or type of accommodation can influence the availability of power. Some budget accommodations or eco-lodges only offer solar lights in the tents, no individual plug-in options, and use time slots for power . In those accommodations, a shared charging station is usually available in the main building. Most mid-range or luxury accommodations have charging stations in the room or tent. Africa uses 220-240 volt electricity at 50hz. Check which plug converter is needed for the country you're traveling to.

I always bring my own solar energy source because I use a lot of technology on safari. One of my favorite safari essentials is the WakaWaka Solar Panel combined with the Power 10 . It’s one of the most powerful solar panels and power bank-combination that can charge up to five electronic devices at once. In Africa, it is relatively easy to make use of the sun for energy, and it’s also sustainable! Other electronics I usually pack for safari are a headlamp, a torch, and my laptop for photo editing.

Useful electronics to pack for safari are:

A solar power panel
A portable Power Bank (to charge devices in lodges without electricity or during the game drives)
Torch and/or headlamp (very useful in the evening and night)
Mobile phone unlocked for international use (you can buy a local sim card on arrival)
Charger for your phone, including charging cables
Tablet or laptop plus charger (for a game, writing, or photo editing)
An e-reader (optional for free time in between game drives)
International plug converter
Optional travel hairdryer, however, most lodges have hairdryers in the room

Safari essentials

To complete your safari packing list, there are a few safari essentials you should not forget, like binoculars , and a thermal water bottle . When I pack my bag for safari, I won’t leave my Celestron TrailSeeker Binocular and my Stanley coffee percolator . Those are two of my favorite safari essentials. Other practical things to bring on safari are bird and animal books.

mid-range binocular for safari in Africa

Other important essentials you should bring on a safari in Africa:

Carry-on daypack for your game drives
Thermal water bottle
Stanley coffee percolator (if you're a coffee lover like me)
Snacks if the usual meals a day are not enough
a small notebook and pen (or use your notes on the phone)
waterproof dry bag to keep important stuff or electronics away from water, sand, and dust
Bird and animal checklist or book (or use apps like the Roberts Bird App to document and read about sightings)

The complete safari packing guide

After reading this complete safari packing guide , you know exactly what to pack for safari in Africa. I recommend using packing cubes to organize your bag. For traveling in Africa it's advisable to travel with a soft bag or suitcase. Charter flights to for example airstrips in the Maasai Mara have a maximum weight allowance and not a lot of space to store heavy hard suitcases.

Safari packing list for your safari in Africa

If this packing guide is helpful for you, you could help me in return by sharing the link of this article on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter or pinning it on Pinterest for your future safari trip to Africa. Have a great safari in Africa!

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The Essential What You Need Safari Packing List

LAST UPDATED: 2/11/24 – Essential Safari Packing List

This safari packing list post contains references to products on our Amazon Store site. We may receive compensation when you purchase these products, though we hand-pick and recommend only the products that we are familiar with and enjoy.

If you are in the planning stages for going on safari, let me first tell you how excited I am for you, as this will be an experience you will treasure for a lifetime. For those of you who might not be immediately planning on going on safari, but are interested, let me tell you with every fiber of my being that you should make that dream come true. The sacrifices to get there and go on safari are worth it a thousand times over.

Now that we got that out of the way, let’s talk about what you should and should not bring with you on safari. If you are like I was before I first went, you are probably wondering what you need to bring with you on safari. Don’t worry, you are not alone. Unless you have been on safari before, you likely aren’t familiar with some of the general guidelines for going on safari. This includes what items are essential to bring, and which items you can do without.

In this safari packing list article, I am going to review some of the general packing guidelines for going on safari with you, as well as talk about some of the essential pieces of gear that you will want to bring with you.

Ask Your Safari Operator What They Recommend as Well

Your safari operator will undoubtedly supply you with a list as well, and you should pay close attention to what they suggest you bring and not bring. Every place you visit to go on safari can be different, though these general guidelines should be mostly the same.

General Guidelines

Balule Nature Reserve in Greater Kruger National Park

Before we start to talk about which items are essential for you to bring, I think it is important to cover some general guidelines for packing for safari. Keep in mind, that the list I have below is tailored for a 5-day and 4-night safari. If your safari is going to be longer, you will need to adjust your packing list to accommodate extra provisions (such as more shirts and pants).

The first safari packing list guideline is to make sure that you pack light. There typically isn’t a lot of room in the safari vehicle, which means that there won’t be room for an abundance of luggage.

You are going to want to take with you just what you will need. Unless you are instructed otherwise, I wouldn’t bring anything that isn’t on the list below unless you absolutely feel that you must have it with you.

When we went on safari, my wife and I shared one duffel bag for our clothes and gear, and one camera bag for our camera gear. This worked out well because we were each responsible for a bag and our luggage didn’t take up much room in the vehicle.

I would strongly recommend a duffel bag, or other flexible fabric bag, over a hard suitcase if you have one. They are much easier to pack into the safari vehicles.

Make Sure You Protect Yourself From Mosquitoes

One of the most important packing principles when packing for a safari is to ensure you will be protected from mosquito bites. Not just at night, but during the day as well. Mosquitoes are carriers for a lot of deadly diseases, such as Malaria and Yellow Fever, which you want to avoid getting at all costs. Even if you got your immunizations and have an antimalarial, they aren’t guaranteed to protect you.

Your safari operator should provide you lodging with mosquito netting at night, but I would take extra precautions to make sure you are protected. I strongly suggest that you bring long pants and long-sleeved shirts with you, as well as an ample supply of insect repellent.

Make Sure You Bring Protection From the Sun

Another reason to bring long pants and long-sleeved shirts is to protect yourself from the sun. The sun can be quite intense when you are on safari, and you don’t want a bad sunburn to ruin the experience. To avoid getting too hot, I would suggest investing in some breathable pants and long-sleeved shirts to wear. This way you will be protected from the sun and insects, but not get too hot.

Make Sure You Bring Neutral Colored Clothing

When you put together your safari packing list, you are going to want to make sure you pack neutral-colored or natural-colored clothes. While the animals generally can’t differentiate between your safari vehicle and the contents in it, if you wear bright colors (especially bright white), it makes it easier for them to do that. You don’t want to scare the animals away or pique their curiosity in you.

Make Sure You Bring Layers of Clothes to Wear

The temperatures you experience while on safari can vary from hot during the day, to quite chilly at night. And if you are going on safari in South Africa, Botswana, or Zimbabwe, they use open vehicles. This means those early-game drives will be quite cold.

You are going to want to make sure that you pack layers of clothing so that you are prepared. In addition to T-shirts and some breathable long-sleeved shirts, you are going to want to pack a light fleece or sweatshirt for the chilly mornings and nights on safari.

The Essential Gear

Packing for safari sounds a lot more complicated than it is. If you follow the general guidelines I listed above, you should be all set. In case you still aren’t sure about what you should and should not bring, I have included a safari packing list of essential gear to bring along below.

(2) Pairs of Long Pants – Preferably Breathable Ones

Walking safari in Arusha National Park in Tanzania

You are going to want to bring a few pairs of long, breathable pants along with you when you go on safari. I like the convertible pants because they convert into shorts when I need them. Though I don’t recommend you wear shorts too often while on safari because of the mosquitoes, there may be circumstances where your safari guide says it is alright. This way, you are prepared.

View Recommended Hiking Pants on Amazon.com

(4) T-Shirts and\or Long Sleeve Shirts – Preferably Breathable Ones

Safari Packing - Camping in the Serengeti

If you get the right kind of breathable material, you should be completely comfortable, even in the heat, while wearing a light, long-sleeve shirt. When I am on safari, I love to wear Patagonia’s Capilene shirts.

The wind goes right through them to keep me cool, but I get some extra protection from the mosquitoes. They also have built-in SPF protection to give you some extra protection from the sun as well.

View Recommended Shirts on Amazon.com

Hiking Boots

Camping in the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania

Before you leave for safari, you are going to want to make sure you invest in a good pair of hiking boots. This is especially true if you are planning on taking a walking safari. Hiking boots give your feet a lot more protection than your standard tennis shoe does.

When you are looking at hiking boots, make sure you choose a boot or shoe that covers your entire foot. I do not recommend you wear any type of sandal, including hiking sandals, while on safari.

View Recommended Hiking Boots on Amazon.com

Light Fleece or Jacket

Safari Packing - Serengeti National Park

Because the early mornings and nights can be rather cool when you are on safari, you are going to want to make sure you have a warm layer to put on. A light fleece or sweatshirt should be sufficient.

I would stay away from fully cotton fabrics if you can because they will suck out your body heat when wet. If you are looking for a great lightweight travel jacket, I absolutely love my Patagonia Nano Puff jacket. They are really warm and conveniently fold up into their own pocket when not being used.

View Recommended Fleece and Jackets on Amazon.com

Rain Ponchos

The last thing you want is to be caught without rain protection when on safari. Even if you are in a closed vehicle, you are going to want to have the windows down at times ( when allowed by your safari guide ) to get some great pictures. Having some disposable rain ponchos handy will save you from having to be cold and uncomfortable on those rainy days on safari.

View Recommended Rain Gear on Amazon.com

Wide Brim Hat

On safari in Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe

Before I went on my first safari, I contemplated whether or not I should bring a hat, and what type of hat I should bring. I couldn’t be happier that I decided to invest in a wide-brim safari hat. These hats give you 360-degree protection against the sun, which was really nice when we were in the hot African sun. If you want to increase your sun protection, these hats are a great way to go.

View Recommended Wide Brim Safari Hats on Amazon.com

On safari in Kruger National Park in South Africa

I really don’t know what I would have done without my sunglasses while on safari. This is especially true for the walking safaris that we took in Arusha National Park and Kruger National Park. Sunglasses are very lightweight and don’t take up much room in your pack. I would strongly recommend that you bring a pair. When the sun is at its strongest, you will be very thankful that you have them.

View Recommended Sunglasses on Amazon.com

Sun Screen (SPF 30 or Above)

This is a must for any safari packing list. Without the proper sunscreen, a bad sunburn may end up ruining your time on safari. I recommend that you bring sunscreen that has SPF 30 protection or higher. When we went on safari, we brought SPF 45 protection, and it worked very well.

View Recommended Sun Screen Options on Amazon.com

Insect Repellent (at least 40% DEET)

This is another absolute must for your safari packing list. When purchasing your insect repellent, you should look for some that is at least 30% DEET. While the DEET isn’t the greatest thing for you, it is much better than getting Malaria or Yellow Fever and is the most effective.

When we went on safari, I brought both insect spray and insect wipes. We put on the insect spray in the morning and then refreshed it at around midday. The wipes are super convenient should you need some protection in a pinch.

View Recommended Insect Repellants on Amazon.com

Your Camera

On safari in Chobe National Park in Botswana

You are going to see so many amazing things while you are on safari, so you are going to want to have something available to record those memories. For this reason, you will want to make sure a camera is on your safari packing list.

If you have a DSLR, I recommend that you bring your best zoom lens with you. You will be very glad you did. It isn’t always possible to get up close to the animals and a zoom lens will give you a lot more reach. A wide angle lens is also useful for those beautiful landscape shots of Africa, so make sure you save enough space in your camera bag for these two lenses.

View Recommended Cameras on Amazon.com

Camera Bean Bag

Another essential piece of photography gear that you will want to bring along with you on safari is a camera bean bag. Because of the limited amount of space in safari vehicles, it will be very difficult to use a tripod.

However, you are going to want to have something to rest your camera on to stabilize your shops because of all the bumps you will experience when driving on safari. This makes these low-cost camera bean bags the perfect item for safaris.

View Recommended Camera Accessories on Amazon.com

Even if you are bringing your camera, you are going to also want to bring a pair of binoculars with you when you go on safari. They can help you spot those far-away animals that even your camera’s zoom lens can’t reach.

When we were on safari in the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, our binoculars proved essential to seeing the animals that were in the center of the crater (where we couldn’t drive).

Pro Tip: A really cool tip that I learned from our safari guide if you are using your phone camera to take pictures is to put your binoculars up against the lens of your phone camera and then take a picture. You will be stunned at how well this works to get those zoomed-in pictures with your phone.

Using binoculars to zoom a phone camera on safari

Flashlight(s) and\or Head Lamp(s)

A piece of gear that you definitely want to have in your bag when you go on safari is a headlamp or flashlight. They are worth their weight in gold when you are trying to find your way around a dark tent at night when out in the bush.

Even if you are staying in a lodge while on safari, the unreliable power grids across much of Africa may mean you could be without power some nights. Make sure you bring some spare batteries with you as well.

View Recommended Head Lamps and Flashlights on Amazon.com

Portable Charger

Depending on the accommodations that you will have while on safari, there may not be a good way to charge your phone battery. For this reason, I strongly recommend that you invest in a portable charger before you go. Good portable chargers will allow you to charge up to four phones completely before they need to be recharged themselves.

View Recommended Portable Chargers on Amazon.com

Portable Surge Protector and Foreign Power Adapters

On safari in the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania

The last thing you want to happen when on the safari trip of your lifetime is to have your phone or camera damaged by a power surge while charging. African power grids are notorious for power surges, which can make them dangerous for electronic devices.

A portable surge protector will protect your electronic devices while on safari so that you can just concentrate on getting some really stunning photographs.

You are also going to want to make sure you bring along your foreign power adapters. Without them, you might not be able to charge your electronic devices.

I love the Bluegogo Universal all-in-one travel adapter that I have because it is small, lightweight, includes only one piece to keep track of, and has USB ports for portable devices.

View Recommended Travel Surge and Power Adapters on Amazon.com

Mosquito Netting

Safari Packing - Camping in the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania

Most safari accommodations will come with mosquito netting over the beds, but I would strongly recommend that you come prepared just in case. Especially if you are going to be camping while on safari, it never hurts to have some extra mosquito netting in your bag.

When we were camping in Kruger National Park, one of the campsites we stayed at did not have mosquito netting in the tents. We were so glad we thought ahead and brought our own just in case.

View Recommended Mosquito Netting on Amazon.com

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Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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10 comments ›.

Wow the more I read your posts the more I want to buy ticket for Africa, also I never thought of the binoculars + phone trick. Thanks for sharing!

No problem!! Thank you for reading!

great information,especially on safaris,

Thank you so much for the kind words!! 😀

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23 MUST-HAVE Items on your African Safari Packing List

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safari Clothing Essentials

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

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

Tips for Safari Clothes Packing

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

Read More: Riu Palace Resort Zanzibar – Our Honest Review

Clothing for your African Safari Packing List:

1. safari shirt.

safari shirt anti-insect repellent defense review

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.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag TNF Black Size Large

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

Packing Cubes 8 Sets Latest Design Travel Luggage Organizers Include Waterproof Shoe Storage Bag Convenient Packing Pouches for Traveller (Grey)

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

HAOZI Universal Travel Adapter, All-in-one International Power Adapter with 2.4A Dual USB, European Adapter Travel Power Adapter Wall Charger for UK, EU, AU, Asia Covers 150+Countries (Blue)

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

Tiger Balm Red Ointment for Muscalar Aches and Paints Herbal Rub Headache Pain Relief Big Jar (Thailand), 30g

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

Anker Rechargeable Bolder LC40 Flashlight, LED Torch, Super Bright 400 Lumens CREE LED, IPX5 Water Resistant, 5 Modes High/Medium/Low/Strobe/SOS, Indoor/Outdoor (Camping, Hiking and Emergency Use)

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

Anker Portable Charger, PowerCore Slim 10000 Power Bank, 10000mAh Battery Pack, High-Speed PowerIQ Charging Technology for iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and More

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

occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision, Large Eyepiece Waterproof Binocular for Adults Kids,High Power Easy Focus Binoculars for Bird Watching,Outdoor Hunting,Travel,Sightseeing

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

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel,Army Green,12 X 24 Inches

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

african safari anxieties things people worry about

African Safari Anxiety: 19 Things People Worry About!

riu palace zanzibar reviews best luxury hotel

Riu Palace Zanzibar Review: Best All-Round Luxury Hotel

Roy Safaris Reviews The Best Safari Tour Operator In Tanzania

Roy Safaris Review: Best Tour Operator in Tanzania?

11 Smart Tips: How to do Affordable Luxury Travel

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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 ___________________

There are 4 comments on this post

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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 🙂

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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.

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

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

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Africa , Travel Gear & Packing

Ultimate safari gear packing list.

If you’re anything like me, then you’re probably feeling a little overwhelmed about what the heck you should put on your safari gear list!

There’s just so much to think about and so much conflicting information, it’s hard to wade through it all to get to the real essentials.

After all, most of us who go on safari are newbies – we’ve never been on this sort of trip before, in fact, we may not have even been to Africa before.

Knowing what to pack therefore can be a stressful guessing game.

Been there, felt that!

Having just finished a 2 month overland trip through Southern and East Africa with Absolute Africa however, I’m now pretty clued up about exactly what safari gear you need… and what you don’t!

So, to help give you some ideas about what to take, here’s my complete safari packing list…

How Much Does an African Safari Cost?
Top 5 Africa Travel Itineraries
Travel Insurance for Africa: Why I Chose World Nomads

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Top 4 Safari Packing Tips

South Africa, Kruger National Park, Game Drive

#1 Stick to Practical, Comfy Clothing

You want to make sure you’re comfortable during your safari, so choosing thin, loose clothing is the best idea.

Cotton can often be the best choice, as it’s a breathable natural fabric that helps you stay cool.

Clothes with pockets are also a good idea when it comes to what to wear on a safari, as is a good day pack .

You’ll probably have a lot of things that you’ll want in easy reach during your trips in the park, including your camera at the ready, along with spare lenses and lens cleaning equipment; not to mention your hand sanitiser, sunglasses and hat, and having a decent day pack makes keeping things close at hand a lot easier!

#2 Opt for Neutral Colours

There’s a reason you so often see people wearing khaki on safari – it blends in with the surrounding habitat!

After all, you don’t want to be spotted by the wildlife before you spot them, so stay camouflaged if you can!

Choosing clothes in neutral earthy tones, such as beige, brown and grey, are perfect choices.

You can get pretty dusty and dirty on game drives and walking safaris too, so it’s sensible to avoid white and cream.

#3 Don’t Forget Warm Layers & Sun Protection

You may not realise, but it actually can get very chilly on safari, especially if you’re enjoying any dawn or dusk game drives in an open-top vehicle!

I definitely recommend bringing a warm fleece, as well as a thin windproof jacket, a buff / scarf and a warm hat with you for these occasions.

Long sleeves and trousers will also help keep you warm in the morning and evenings (as well as protect you from biting insects!) and, in the day, longer layers will help protect your skin from the strong sun too.

Packing a good sunhat, sunscreen and sunglasses is also a good idea to counteract the harmful effects of the strong UV rays.

#4 Bring Closed-Toe Shoes

Covering up from mosquitos and insects is also a reason closed-toe shoes are also strongly advised for your safari packing list.

They are also more practical and safe, protecting your feet from thorny plants, or when walking in rough or rocky terrain.

Trainers are fine for your safari if it’s the dry season and it’s not too cold.

However, if you’re planning to do any hiking safaris, such as to see gorillas or chimpanzees in east Africa, then you’ll need boots as it can be really muddy in some places.

Boots may also be a better choice for chilly morning game drives.

Safari Clothes

1x Waterproof Jacket

It didn’t rain at all during the first month of my safari trip and then I got to East Africa and it barely stopped!

As such, I was beyond glad to have packed my lightweight waterproof jacket with me!

Not only for the rain, but in the highlands and during those freezing early morning game drives, its windproof qualities really came into their own!

2x Hooded Jumper / Fleece

I splashed out before I came on my safari trip and bought a thermal fleece from Kathmandu, which ended up being so useful for those cold nights camping in altitude at Tanzania or during morning safari drives in Zimbabwe.

If you can’t find a Kathmandu one, this one from North Face would also do brilliantly.

Again in East Africa I was glad to have 2 sweaters due to the rain – ensuring at least one was always dry at any given time!

2x Thin Long Sleeved Tops / Base Layers

Perfect to go under your thermal fleece, thin long sleeved tops, or base layers, are also awesome for cold nights, early morning safaris and mosquito protection during the evenings.

Try to choose a natural fabric like cotton or merino if you can, as they wick sweat away, keep you fresh, cool and smelling better! I love this ones from Meriwool .

7x Singlets / T-Shirts

Singlets are good for hot days, T-shirts are good for when you need to protect your shoulders from the hot African sun or want to dress moderately.

Bring a mix of both (perhaps making one or 2 of them quick-dry) and enough to last you a week without washing.

2x Pair Long Thin Trousers

Having some long pants to protect you against evening mosquitos is also a good one on your safari gear list.

Long trousers are also useful for places like Stone Town in Zanzibar where is it advised you dress moderately.

Again, I always bat for natural fabrics like linen or cotton first. These ones from Roxy would be ideal.

2x Pair Leggings

As well as trousers, I’d also suggest putting a couple of pairs of legging on your safari gear list too.

Leggings are great to wear under trousers on cold game drives and to wear in bed on cold nights.

They are double as great hiking / yoga / active wear if you want to do any fitness whilst you’re on the road.

2/3x Pair Shorts

No safari gear list would be complete without some shorts for all those beautiful sunny days.

I took 2 pairs of denim shorts and a pair of Nike Dri-Fit shorts , but you could get away with just 2 pairs if pushed.

1x Beach Dress

Just what you’ll want in places like Zanzibar, South Africa or the Kenyan coast!

I also like to pair mine with leggings for a more “dressy” evening look!

1x Sports Bra

Required for those bouncy and rough safari rides!

3x Pair Socks

Take a mix of ankle and long, thick hiking socks would be my recommendation.

Enough so you don’t have to do any washing for a week!

1x Swimwear

I love my Ripcurl bikini sooo much!

1x Woolly Hat / Beanie

A godsend when I was up at altitude in the Ngorongoro Crater and Iringa in Tanzania, Eldroet and Nairobi in Kenya and Addis Ababa in Ethiopia.

1x Wide-Brimmed Sun Hat

Essential for safaris when they pop the roof and you’re without shade for hours at a time.

Also great for beach days and summer in Southern Africa.

2x Sarong / Scarf

Great for beach days, dusty safari rides, shoulder-covering, as a second towel, sheet, dress or blanket.

Check out my 20 reasons you should always travel with a sarong if you’re looking for any more ideas about the ways this amazing safari gear item can be used!

Safari Shoes

Kenya, Masai Mara, Mum and baby Elephant

1x Pair Sandals

Flip flops, like these Havaianas , are good as they can quickly be thrown on and off when you’re getting in and out of the safari truck, your tent or the shower!

You may also want to take some extra cheap or old pairs to trade with locals when you get to Africa.

1x Pair Sneakers

Great for any walking or cycling other vaguely active activities you may want to do in drier climates.

I love my New Balance runners , which have great grip and tread for all sorts of terrains.

I wore them to hike in Malawi and for earlier morning safaris in Zimbabwe when it was freezing!

1x Pair Waterproof Boots

Essential if you’re going to be trekking to the gorillas or visiting anywhere at altitude in East Africa.

Not only is this to do with the cold, but it really can rain just about anytime of the year here and as such places quickly become muddy as hell!

Save your runners and your feet and sling on a pair of boots instead.

I took my Doc Martens on a total whim, but ended up wearing them almost everyday in the highlands of Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya and Ethiopia!

Electrical Items

Mirrorless Camera

I love my Sony A6000 mirrorless camera which is lightweight, compact and study enough for any safari.

It comes with a 16-50m lens which is ideal for capturing landscapes.

My Sony A6000 mirrorless camera came with a 16-50mm optical lense, but it’s definitely worth putting a good zoom lens on your safari gear list too.

My Sony 55-210mm lens was perfect for this and not too expensive either!

2x 64GB Fast SD Memory Cards

Get large 64GB SD memory cards as you do not want to run out of photo space when on safari!

I’d also recommend splashing out a bit and getting some fast ones , as these cards will process videos and continuous shooting images much speedier – just what you need to snap that cheetah!

Spare Camera Battery

You never want to run out of battery when there is a leopard in front of you… trust me!

Battery Charging Unit / Cables / Leads

Take spare micro USB leads as they always get lost / broken!

Adapter Plugs

I took a South African adapter (for South Africa & Botswana) a British Adapter (for Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania & Kenya) and a European adapter (for Ethiopia).

They all add up but are definitely needed!

Smartphone & Headphones

It’s amazing but almost all the campsites / hostels we stayed at during the overland trip had wifi, so taking your smartphone to stay in touch with those at home and to upload some pics is a great idea.

Also download some audiobooks and music onto your phone before you leave home – a great idea for longer journey days. I recommend Amazon Audible and Spotify Premium for these purposes.

Also some noise-cancelling headphones, like these from Bose , would have been amazing!

Portable Charger

Portable power banks are great when travelling without a solidly reliable charging source, like on a safari!

I recommend the Anker 20000mAh Portable Charger PowerCore 20100 which is super weight and super fast, meaning I could charge my phone and my camera brilliantly while on the move.

Toiletries Must Haves

Thin Washbag with Hook

Shampoo and Conditioner Bar

Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Floss

Face Cleanser, Toner, Serum & Moisturiser

Anti-Bacterial Soap

Body Moisturiser

Razor & Spare Blades

Tweezers, Nail Scissors, Nail File

Cotton Buds & Safety Pins

Hairbands & Hair Brush

50+ SPF Suncream

I always recommend an organic sunscreen if possible to cut down on the nasty chemicals and Eminence Organic Skincare has all you need for sun protection and hydration.

Menstrual Cup

Ye yeah ladies, you know what I’m talking about! If not, check one out here .

Medical / First Aid Kit Essentials

Anti-Malaria Medication

2x DEET Insect Repellent

Rehydration Salts

Painkillers + Anti-Inflammatories

Antihistamines / Cortisone Cream

Band Aids & Bandages

Anti-Septic Cream

Other Safari Packing Essentials

Sleeping Bag and Silk Liner

I love my snugpak sleeping bag , which condenses down to nothing and my silk sleeping bag liner, which is perfect for keeping me cool and sweat-free.

Check out my list of other great sleeping bags for travellers here .

Travel Towel

Compact, quick-dry and all-round brilliant!

I wouldn’t be without my Sea to Summit Tek Towel , which packs down to nothing and never gets smelly or gross!

Combination Padlock

Ideal for locking up your bag during transit, stuff on an overland truck or keeping your valuables safe in lockers at backpackers.

Travel Sewing Kit

Your clothes will get worn out fast in Africa, so having some way to repair them is a definite bonus!

Travel Clothes Line & Handwash

A travel clothes line is one of the handiest things to pack on your safari gear list as laundry facilities in Africa are thin on the ground.

I wouldn’t be without my pegless one, which I’ve used so many time on the road it’s not funny!

Mosquito Net

Great to have for those times when the one provided is less than adequate!

Toilet Paper

Headlamp & Spare Batteries

An absolute necessity on your safari gear list. Make sure you take one with a red setting to deter those insects and bugs at night.

You can easily get cheap pairs like these ones from Eurohike .

I have this exact pair and they were perfect – lightweight and durable.

And believe it or not, I fitted all of this into a Berghaus Freeflow 40l backpack – my number 1 choice when it comes to the best backpack for travel!

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Mini African Safari Travel Guide

As a huge continent, it’s impossible to give an overall best time to visit Africa, so I’ve split this question down in sub-regions.

When it comes to North Africa, I highly recommend visiting during the spring and autumn months, ie. April to May and September to October, so that the weather is pleasant enough for sightseeing.

In West Africa, the high season runs from December through February, when the region generally experiences its lowest rainfall and humidity – definitely a good idea to visit at this time!

In East Africa, visiting during the long dry season is a great idea. In general, this runs between the months of July and September and also conveniently aligns with the Great Migration too. the short rainy season in November and December can be another good time to visit this part of the continent.

And finally, we come to Southern Africa.

If you’re heading to Cape Town, I’d visit between November and February, but for Namibia and Botswana, the best months are May through October when it’s cooler and less humid.

Best African Safari Tours

If you’re interested in an unforgettable, well-priced tour across Africa, with guides you can trust, or a self-drive trip organised by a great company, then email me at [email protected] and I’ll send you my top recommendations – simple!

Alternatively, I’m currently offering my readers an exclusive discount on all Absolute Africa tours , meaning you can now travel even more in the amazing regions of southern and east Africa for even less! Simply send this top African overland tour company an email to [email protected] , quoting the discount code BWSP, and start planning your incredible trip with them today!

Otherwise, if it’s strictly safari tours you’re looking for, check out these top picks .

Travel Insurance for Safaris

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Safari Travel Money

When it comes to paying for things across this continent, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates when using your card abroad, which is why I always take my Wise card away with me wherever I travel.

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So there you have it, my ultimate safari gear list.

Have you been on safari in Africa?

What was top of your packing list and what did you bring that you did not need?

Please join the conversation in the comments box below …

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

4 thoughts on “ Ultimate Safari Gear Packing List ”

What time of year we’re your travelling Africa? I’m trying to figure how light a sleeping bag I can get away with during a November Trip on an almost identical route.

Hi Gemma, I travelled through Southern and Eastern Africa in the months of Sept-Dec. Understandably the climate varies quite considerably between say, South Africa and Uganda – as well as within the countries themselves due to altitude and topography. If you’re travelling the East African highlands – such as to see the gorillas etc or to the Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa, I think you’ll need a 3 season sleeping bag. If it’s just the coast you’re sticking to, 2 Season should be fine! The variables are of course Kilimanjaro or Simien Mountains in Ethiopia. I always recommend a silk sleeping bag liner too – great for when it’s too hot for a sleeping bag, or for reducing sweating and dirt on bag generally!

During all my trips, a medicine bag is always a must carry for me. The thing I’m adding to my bag is the rehydration salts. Didn’t think of that. You wrote a great article.

Thanks so much, really appreciate you saying so. And yes, rehydration salts are a great packing addition! Safe travels, Steph 🙂

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What to pack for safari

By Lydia Bell

Lone African elephant walking with blurred foreground of savanna grassland and blurred tourist car stop by watching...

When creating a packing list for safari, the brief is to blend functionality and a modicum of style into about 15 kilograms – roughly the luggage allowance on the bush planes that whisk safari guests to lodges, though it might be even less. By all means splash out on fancy gadgets or study stills from Out of Africa to create a mood board for a capsule wardrobe, if that sparks joy. (For specific suggestions on the items below, browse our fashion editor’s 'what to wear on safari' .)

What luggage should I take on safari?

To carry the clobber, choose a soft-sided suitcase or duffel bag, nothing with a hard shell. “Even though it’s tempting to take your much-loved wheelie,” says writer Harriet Compston, “this can fit into the light aircraft much more easily.” Conservation writer Sarah Marshall goes everywhere with fabric or tarp-based water-resistant luggage from Eastpak or Osprey, especially the latter’s Rolling Transporter 60 . As a day bag, safari writer Jane Broughton swears by the Sealand moonbag made in her hometown Cape Town from recycled nylon and sailcloth. “It’s just big enough for my passport, purse and phone while travelling, then great for game drives and walks to store sunglasses, lip balm, SPF and tissues close to hand.” Those carrying extra lenses for cameras or binoculars will need a larger day pack.

What clothes should I pack for a safari?

Comfort is crucial, and these days, as Jane Broughton notes, “stylish athleisure wear is perfectly acceptable”. She means leggings rather than tracksuits, but overall a safari wardrobe is a simple capsule of comfortable layer items in shades of neutral earth tones, creams and greens that will traverse the gamut of chilly mornings in an open vehicle, blazing midday sun, and everything in between. Avoid camouflage (associated solely with the military in some countries) and bright colours. Also, avoid dark colours, metallic fabric and blues - the tsetse fly is attracted to them.

Wondering what to pack for safari These are the top items to pack

These are the must-have clothing items to pack for a safari holiday

On the savannah, stretchy trousers , jodhpurs, cargos, utility trousers or soft drawstring trousers in khaki or earthy muted shades can be matched with t-shirts – “Those that contain polygiene are great,” advises Sarah Marshall.
UPF50 Patagonia tops and long-sleeved linen shirts (that don’t require ironing and can be hand washed in cold water) in similar colours. “I love zip-off cargo trousers, which are shorts and trousers in one,” says Sarah Marshall.
Sunrise and sunset will demand a light, neutral-coloured safari jacket as the temperature will drop. A lightweight fleece or cashmere hoodie is handy for nippy moments, and a thin Uniqlo puffer jacket or primaloft jacket that scrunches up to nothing. Safari maestro Lisa Grainger takes a water- and wind-proof thin jacket that rolls into a ball.
Necessary accessories include a roomy but lightweight scarf as an easy and versatile accessory that can be draped over shoulders during game drives for sun or dust protection, used for coverage when a cool breeze sets in or for al fresco eating in the evenings, or wrapped around hair to protect it from dust. Alice Gully, co-owner of Aardvark Safari, is a fan of the kikoy – that sarong-like wrap-around ubiquitous on the Swahili coast of East Africa, especially Kenya . “These are so useful and multipurpose – as a scarf if you are cold, a wrap on the beach, a makeshift towel, or something to mop up child-induced incidents. They also wash and dry quickly.”

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straw hat holding binoculars in the forest.

A safari hat is obligatory – a panama, wide-brimmed leather hat or Akubra is nice, but if space is at a premium, any wide-brimmed hat that can be crushed to fit luggage. Or as Will Bolsover, founder of Natural World Safari puts it, “a cap or beanie – whether it’s hot or cold, just cover your head!”
Safaris can get cold! In the winter months of May , June , July and Aug , a beanie and a cashmere scarf can replace the wide-brimmed hat and linen scarf, and lined gloves and thicker socks come into play. Africa Travel Centre co-owner Frances Geoghegan packs thermals and a torch for early winter mornings – and if you’re cold-blooded Australian travel writer Chloe Sachdev you bring a hot-water bottle everywhere, too (the best lodges do tend to pop them into the vehicle every morning in winter).

Close up of a group of friends hiking in the mountains

Footwear seems to divide opinions. Some favour ankle boots for support and protection: many prefer trail shoes (more nimble for hopping in and out of vehicles and for bush walks, they dry quicker and are less hot). Depending on personal preference, hiking boots work for walking safari that involves hours trudging through the bush but aren’t necessary for quicker tracking experiences. Don’t, says Nairobi-based travel writer Wendy Watta, bother with trainers. “I packed them once in the rainy season and they got ruined, plus trekking through thorny bushes my skin got pricked the entire time”. Pack different shoes for camp – breathable sandals or flip-flops for hot days.
Don’t overlook socks. Lisa Grainger recommends Smartwool socks, which are a stretch-blend of merino wool from New Zealand.
High-quality polarised sunglasses cut down on glare and eye strain when peering into the bush.
Don’t forget your swimming costume if the lodges have pools.
Bring extra undies. Lisa Grainger warns that many lodges won’t wash them so she always brings a little packet of powder for an overnight wash and dry.

What gadgets should I take on safari?

Dust off the SLR camera and telephoto lenses . Sarah Marshall suggests a mirrorless camera : “These are the lightest and have a really high frame rate per second, so you can catch all the action. I’d recommend a Nikon Z6i with a 100-400mm lens. I use a Z9 but that’s more of a pro level.”
A GoPro is also a fun addition to a game-drive, and has a stabilisation tool which works well on bouncy game drives.

Park ranger with binoculars watching hippos in the Akagera national park

Binoculars are key, especially in parks where off-roading is banned. “Whilst a limited number of lodges do provide individual binoculars, the majority do not. This invariably leads to guests having to rely on borrowing their guides’ pair for a few seconds of snatched clarity. Much better to bring your own pair and be able to fully appreciate truly wonderful sights like the face of the white headed vulture,” advises Frances Geoghegan. “The best in the business are Swarovski Optik , but try to make sure that the pair have specifications of 8x40 and 10x42. They will be the one item of kit you will not regret."
A Leatherman is always handy. “It doesn’t matter whether you have a flat tyre, or need to open a beer, this is essential,” argues Will Bolsover. “But remember to take it out of your hand luggage, as it’s not popular with airport security.”
A powerful torch for deep dark nights in the bush is essential. “The Fenix LD30 torch is the best compact torch with five brightness settings,” Will Jones, founder of Journeys by Design, enthuses, “And reassuringly solid and metal in your hand.” Lisa Grainger is a head torch fan – that classic scout accessory. “It means you have your hands free in a tent to unpack and can see what you are doing.”
If going entirely off the beaten track, a satellite phone is tempting, and more than useful. Will Jones uses the Thuraya phone for jaunts into the wilds of Sudan, Chad and Eritrea.
Most top-end lodges provide yoga mats but just in case Sarah Marshall brings a travel mat from Yoga Bare .

Portrait of a hunting cheetah trough leaves of bush. Big cat is stalking prey estimating a chance for a successful hunt....

What toiletries should I take on safari?

“Instead of filling my wash bag with newly-bought boxes of endless travel medication like Dioralyte or Imodium, I take my St John’s Ambulance first aid kit ,” says travel writer Harriet Compston. “I’ve had it for 20 years and just keep on restocking it. It’s more compact and squashable in suitcases and it contains some serious plasters.”
Will Jones never goes anywhere without rehydration salts . “Nine times out of ten the wobbles on the road are resolved with a good salt and sugar rebalance,” he believes. Alice Gully, co-owner of Aardvark Safaris, seconds that and adds dissolvable paracetamol .
For “ t ired travel skin, dry lips, and too much sun”, Alice Gully also loves Elizabeth Arden Eight-hour cream or Bio Oil as an all-purpose salve.
Contact-lense-wearer Will Bolsover swears by Optrex Eye spray – “an essential for minimising eye problems”.
For those who need to go into battle against insects, Wendy Watta advises a fly-swatter . “Nothing prepares you for the tsetse flies, and how hard they sting. In my experience, insect repellent only takes you so far.” Travel writer Mary Holland has started travelling with an insect bite healer . “It’s a small battery-operated device that takes the itch out of bites. It’s life-changing!” Either way, don’t forget to pack 30-per-cent-Deet repellent .
When it comes to bathroom goodies , “try and think sustainably when packing,” implores Jane Broughton. “Top lodges have gorgeous carefully chosen eco-friendly bathroom products that are biodegradable. To bring one’s own high-end products, like hair masks, is disrespectful to the environment and owners and staff who are trying to keep soak-aways to a minimum and the environment around camp unpolluted. For a few days, everyone can make do with the in-room supplied shampoo and conditioner. Bring your own earth- or ocean-friendly sun lotion , as well.” Australian brand Ultra Violette makes SPF50 mineral-based formulas that protect, nourish and hydrate skin but don’t contain oxybenzone.
Other useful first-aid items include motion-sickness tablets for bush planes and anti-histamine tablets.

Extra pro tips for your next safari

Check the requirements for anti-malarial medication (check the NHS’s Fit For Travel web pages for the malaria maps of each country) and an International Certificate of Vaccination ( Rwanda , Uganda and Tanzania may require one, especially to show you’ve been vaccinated against yellow fever).
To help those who are stuck on which clothing brands would be best for safari, some operators have launched their own range of safari clothing . Dereck and Beverly Joubert’s D&B Explorer Collection , includes a lightweight bamboo scarf, men’s linen shirts, a button-down linen dress, military-style jackets and more.
The savannah can handle a khaki safari suit, but when tracking chimpanzees or gorillas in Rwanda or Uganda, as Praveen Moman, founder of Volcanoes Safaris says, “the cliché of safari wear doesn’t work”. High-altitude forest – up to 9000 feet –can be glaringly sunny or extremely, and suddenly, damp, requires different sorts of layers – moisture-wicking base layers, thin fleeces and rain jackets and decent waterproof hiking boots with a grip (Sarah Marshall recommends Merrell’s range with Goretex ). “The weather can change, it can rain at any time, it can be cold and it can be sunny. The UV light at high altitude can be very strong and can burn those with sensitive skin, so the right sun cream with a sun hat and sunglasses is essential. It’s also critical to have strong footwear that allows you to walk through mud and exposed roots and it gives you a grip in slush.”

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Virginia safari park is home to king cheetah, africa's rarest cat, fun for the entire family, experience unique animal encounters, explore our 180-acre safari drive-thru, stroll through our 10-acre village walk-thru, the virginia safari park is open for the 2024 season. plan your visit, attractions.

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What needs repair?

Replacement.

We can custom make leather handles and straps to match most original designs using the best leather match available. If you’d prefer your new custom strap to be longer or shorter, we can accommodate your request. If your bag does not already have a crossbody strap, we can add tabs with rings to attach a custom-made strap.

Repair or replace leather woven through chain

If the leather in the chain is unstitched, we can re-weave to repair the damaged area. If the leather is severely worn or disintegrated, we can create a replacement.

Refinish handles

The leather on handles often fades or becomes stained due to the oils from your hands when carrying. We can custom create most colors to match the original finish to restore the handle color.

Reseal handle edges

Handle edges can crack, peel, or fray with use. We can strip and reapply the edge coating to seal and protect handle edges.

Shorten/lengthen straps

If your strap is not the right length for you, we can modify it to fit by shortening it, or lengthening it using leather or hardware components.

Stitch and rebuild

If your strap is not in need of replacement, we can stitch loose threading and/or strengthen and rebuild it at the base where the hardware is connected. When interior handle tubing has shifted or cracked, we can carefully open the handle seams to adjust or replace the damaged tubing.

Tab/handle anchor repair or replacement

Tabs often connect the strap or handles to the body of the bag. With wear, these tabs can become weak and rip. When possible, we will rebuild the existing tab. If severely torn, we custom make new tabs to closely resemble the originals.

When an interior seam becomes unsewn, we can repair it along the original stitch line.

When a liner is beyond repair (deteriorating, extremely frayed, severely stained), we can replace it entirely. We have a variety of leather color options for replacement liners to use for replicating the original pockets/sections in the liner.

Liners that have light wear and soiling can be cleaned. We cannot remove ink stains from liners, but we can clean the lining to sanitize it.

Interior zipper

We can repair or replace zippers on the inside pockets of your purse.

Replacement of piping/binding

We can completely replace piping and binding/trim around the perimeter of your bag. Sometimes these components are able to be repaired by feathering in close-matching leather in order to repair a worn spot.

Reseal edges

Edges around the top and sides of the bag can crack or peel and need to be resealed to rebond the leather to create a finished edge. We can reapply this edge sealant to help prevent damage to the leather.

If the leather is faded on the piping or binding, we can custom create a color match to lightly refinish the worn areas. This would be a suitable option for a bag that does not need a complete redye.

With constant use, a zipper pull can become weak and break. If made of leather, we can make a custom replacement. If your original pull is metal, we have generic options available. If the slider is off track, we can realign or replace most sliders.

When the zipper tape is torn or teeth are missing, we must replace the zipper. When choosing a replacement, we select the best match available for zipper tape color and teeth color and size.

When cleaning or washing a bag, the exterior will be carefully hand-cleaned to remove surface-level dirt. The washing option is best suited for fabrics, suede, and coated canvas. Washing will not remove deep staining, discoloration, ink, or dye transfer.

After being washed, a leather bag that has a natural leather finish can be simply conditioned to moisturize the leather and maintain the original look.

Refinish/Dye Leather

Recoloring leather is needed when the original color/finish is worn/faded/stained. Our color specialists custom mix colors to match your bag as closely as possible. The color is then carefully applied by hand in our refinishing studio.

Water and stain protectants can help protect your bag from unforeseen events, such as getting caught in inclement weather conditions.

When hardware components, such as D-rings, locks, or buckles are detached, and all parts are still intact, we do our best to reuse your original parts.

Hardware such as rivets, snaps, hooks, magnets, rings, grommets, stones/beads and feet that are broken or missing can most often be replaced with a similar part. While we do have some branded parts, we do not have access to all brands’ parts, in which case we would use non-branded/generic, similar parts.

For added protection, feet can be added to the bottom of your bag. Sometimes, we need to first add a structured base to accommodate the addition of feet. If you have an open-top bag, we can add a magnetic closure to help keep the bag closed while in use.

Hardware can tarnish and fade over time. In this case, certain hardware pieces can be carefully removed and re-dipped to restore the original appearance of the metal.

The body of a bag can slouch or cave in over time. We gently open the bag to insert interior panels that are custom cut to fit your bag in order to restore the loss of structure.

If you have a vintage item in need of some TLC, send us photos to see what repairs will suit your oldie but goodie.

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My cute little Fendi bag had a few injuries. I found Rago Brothers online and sent my bag in. In around 2 weeks, back she came as good as new! I definitely recommend this team of craftsmen. – Kim F., Portsmouth, RI

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I had 2 purses/totes repaired by Rago Brothers and could not be more pleased. The process from obtaining a quote, to payment, repair and return have been flawless and expeditious both times. The repair work is exquisite and cannot be detected. I would not trust my designer items with anyone else! Plus, the prices are reasonable! – Harriet, Smithville, TN

Zipper Tape/Teeth

A fastening device consisting of 4 parts: tape, teeth, slider and pull tab. We repair split zipper tracks and can replace the entire zipper when the tape and teeth are damaged/missing.

Part of the handbag that allows it to be held in the hand, in the bend of the elbow, or over the shoulder. Handles get worn and sometimes edges crack, so we can reseal the edges. We can also recolor the leather or create new, custom handles.

A leather covered trim to add a finished look to an edge.

Attaches the handle and/or strap to the bag via a D-ring. We are able to rebuild or replace tabs, and can even add them to bags/clutches so you can carry them with a strap.

Small, usually metal, pegs placed on the bottom of a bag to help protect the base and corners. Add feet to keep your purse or handbag off of the floor or other surfaces.

The central and largest exterior surface of the handbag. Cleaning, conditioning, or re-dying can help keep your bag looking fresh. Restructuring the body of the bag can reshape and add back the structure that has been lost over time.

A small, metal hardware component, often used to hold together leather pieces. We add or replace studs and rivets, along with other metal hardware. Sometimes original rivets can be repaired, but in other cases, they must be replaced.

A thin leather-covered cording that seams together panels on the bag. Piping can be repaired, completely replaced or refinished to keep your bag’s detail crisp.

Often with a buckle for adjustment, a strap is usually long enough to carry a handbag over the shoulder. We can lengthen/shorten strap length, reseal edges, or make a new custom strap to add to your bag!

Zipper Pull

Metal hardware that acts as a connector or decoration. Rings and other hardware can be added, repaired or replaced.

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15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure
Best Men's Safari Bag for Hiking: Osprey Farpoint 40. Best Safari Duffel Bag: North Face Base Camp Duffel. Best Safari Duffel/Backpack Bag: RAB Expedition Kitbag 80L Duffel Bag Blue 80L. Best Safari Day Bag: Osprey Porter 46. Best Malti-Day Safari Bag: Osprey Packs Farpoint 70 Travel Backpack.
10 Best Safari Bags, Duffles, Backpacks, & Luggage (2024)
Herschel Supply Co. Novel Duffle Bag. MSRP: $99 | Weight: 2 lbs. | Capacities: 33, 42.5L. The Novel Duffel Bag is an excellent piece of soft-sided luggage for safari. At only 2 lbs, we love the weight savings this provides, making it far more manageable.
The Best Safari Luggage
Luckily, fanny packs are in vogue again—perfect for holding all your essentials. VereVerto Convertible Mini Mox bag ($295, shopbop.com ); Patagonia Ultralight hip pack ($29, patagonia.com ...
The Best Luggage for Safari; Holdalls, Duffel Bags & Backpacks
Rab Kit Bag II 80L. One of the largest options on our list of the best safari luggage, this rugged bag has plenty of room for up to 80L of your stuff. Find it online at Cotswold Outdoor (UK) from £80. Pros: Despite the amount of stuff it can carry, the Rab kit bag is really easy to transport.
Safari Packing List & What To Wear On Safari: Safari Store
What Safari Packing List Essentials to Pack for All Safaris (per person): 1 wide-brim Safari Hat. 1 Safari Beanie for winter. 3 Safari Shirts. 1 warm Safari Fleece or Jacket. 1 optional Safari Dress or Skorts for women. 2 pairs of Safari Trousers and/or Shorts. 2 pairs Safari Socks. 1 pair Safari Shoes.
Best safari luggage
The perfect safari luggage is light, squishy, hard-wearing, rugged enough for the dusty African savanna, and spacious enough for the safari essentials. 3. Reduce the volume of your safari bag. That aside, you should also take the volume of your bag into account. A 70-liter capacity is around average.
Safari Packing List: Our in-depth guide what to bring on a safari
1 x North Face duffle bag small (weighing about 5kg when fully packed, carry on luggage on long haul flights - this is mostly for my camera gear, which is stowed in separate camera inlets inside the duffle bag. ... Safari packing list: First-aid kit. This is a delicate one, as I'm no medical expert, so please don't take this list and rely ...
Complete African Safari Packing List [Checklist and Guide]
1. Weight. 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.
Top 10 Things To Pack for Your Safari
It may seem an obvious one, but a decent pair of binoculars should be one of the first things in your safari kit bag. Quite simply, you'll be able to spot more wildlife when you can zoom in from afar. 2. Mosquito Repellent. Some safari destinations are worse than others for mosquitoes, but it pays to be prepared. Mosquito repellent with DEET ...
What to pack for safari in Africa? Detailed Safari Packing Guide
Checklist of important travel documents to bring on safari. Valid Passport (required to be valid for another six months after returning) Visa (if needed) Airline ticket (s) Vaccination certificates / Yellow Health Card. COVID-19 proof of vaccination, negative (PCR) test result, or recovery certificate.
The Essential What You Need Safari Packing List
Sun Screen (SPF 30 or Above) On safari in Kruger National Park in South Africa. This is a must for any safari packing list. Without the proper sunscreen, a bad sunburn may end up ruining your time on safari. I recommend that you bring sunscreen that has SPF 30 protection or higher.
23 MUST-HAVE Items on your African Safari Packing List
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.
What to Pack for Safari
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.
23 Top Safari Packing List Items for 2024
View on Amazon.com . 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.
Ultimate Safari Gear Packing List
Medical / First Aid Kit Essentials. Anti-Malaria Medication. 2x DEET Insect Repellent. Rehydration Salts. Immodium. Painkillers + Anti-Inflammatories. Antihistamines / Cortisone Cream. Band Aids & Bandages. Anti-Septic Cream. Tiger Balm . Other Safari Packing Essentials. Sleeping Bag and Silk Liner
What to pack for safari
These are the must-have clothing items to pack for a safari holiday. On the savannah, stretchy trousers, jodhpurs, cargos, utility trousers or soft drawstring trousers in khaki or earthy muted shades can be matched with t-shirts - "Those that contain polygiene are great," advises Sarah Marshall. UPF50 Patagonia tops and long-sleeved linen ...
Safari Packing List
With one of these, I can leave my usual backpack/daypack (usually containing my passport and valuables like my laptop) fully packed in my room and just throw the things I'll need that day into my bag. Usually on safari I would pack my daypack with: water. suncream. dry bag filled with snacks like nuts and dried fruit.
Safari Bags
Safari Twister Gun Metal Trolley Bag with TSA Lock & Anti Theft Zipper. Sale price From ₹. 4,499.00 MRP ₹. 8,998.00. Safari Ngage Set of 3 Midnight Blue Trolley Bags with 360° Wheels. Sale price ₹. 7,999.00 MRP ₹. 30,766.00. Safari Ritz 16L Black Formal Backpack with USB Port, Hidden Pockets, and Trolley Sleeve ...
Amazon.com: Safari Kit
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Hobby Lobby Arts & Crafts Store
If you'd like to speak with us, please call 1-800-888-0321. Customer Service is available Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm Central Time. Hobby Lobby arts and crafts stores offer the best in project, party and home supplies. Visit us in person or online for a wide selection of products!
Your Visit
Weekends: open 9 am to 6:30 pm, the last car admitted at 5 pm. September 25 - October 29: open 9 am to 5:30 pm, the last car admitted 4 pm. October 30 - December 1: open 9 am to 4:30 pm, the last car admitted at 3:30 pm. See tickets and hours of operations. Visit Virginia Safari Park, a drive-thru safari adventure park.
Virginia Safari Park, U.S. Zoo
229 Safari Lane, Natural Bridge, VA 24578, Phone: 540-291-3205 ©2024 VIRGINIA SAFARI PARK designed and developed by atlantis-labs.net and powered by atlantis-cms.com
Purse & Handbag Repair
The process from obtaining a quote, to payment, repair and return have been flawless and expeditious both times. The repair work is exquisite and cannot be detected. I would not trust my designer items with anyone else! Plus, the prices are reasonable! Rago Brothers specializes in luxury designer handbag and purse repair, and we fix any brand.

15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure

Top 5 Best Safari Bags

Quick Answer: Best Safari Bags

What Type of Safari are You going on?

Practicality vs Style

Size Considerations

Material and Durability

Best Types of Safari Bags and Product Recommendations

Duffel Bags

Hiking Bags

Vintage Bags

Other Safari Items We Can Not Live Without?

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The Best Safari Luggage

Classic Duffel Bags

Technical Duffel Bags

Fanny Packs

Camera Bags

Africa , Kenya , South Africa

Best safari holdalls and duffel bags

Rufiji Canvas Duffel Bag

Rab Kit Bag II 80L

North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag

Best wheelie cases for taking on safari

Craghoppers 28” Wheelie Bag

Osprey Sojourn 60 Travel Pack

Cabin-friendly safari bags

Craghoppers 40L Holdall

Best safari luggage – Duffel bags & backpacks for African travels

Best Luggage for Travel to Africa: The Basics

What is the Best Luggage for Safari?

Best duffel bag for safari

Best backpack for safari

Other safari travel bags

How to Pick the Best Luggage for African Safari

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

2. Safari travel bags should be soft

3. Reduce the volume of your safari bag

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

Where to Take Your Safari Luggage

About The Author

Editorial Team

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

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

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

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

Safari packing list: Luggage

Safari packing list: Clothes

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

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

What’s in my safari toiletry bag:

Toiletries that you don’t need to bring:

Safari packing list: Camera & Equipment

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

Safari packing list: First-aid kit

What you you don’t need to bring:

Safari packing list: Miscellaneous

What you you may or may not need to bring:

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

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Complete African Safari Packing List [Checklist and Guide]

Ultimate African Safari Packing List: Checklist and Guide

What to Include on Your Safari Packing List

4 Factors: Packing for your African Safari

2. Activities

3. Safari Camp, Lodge, Hotel, or Hostel

4. Planning

Clothing for a Safari

3 Types of Clothing to Avoid Like the Plague:

Clothing Packing List:

Sun Protection

Insect Repellent

Personal Toiletries

Other Items to Consider

What’s on Your Ultimate African Safari Packing List?