The Complete Safari Trip Packing List

A Safari trip is an amazing and unique experience. Before packing, make sure you read the Complete Guide To Planning Safari Trip To Africa.

Now that you know when, and where you’re going, it’s time to make sure you pack everything you’ll need for your safari trip. Most of the list includes generic items, which are required for any trip type, but some are must specifically for safari trips.

This guide includes action items to take as you plan for your trip and a list of all items you’ll need for your trip. Remember that this is an extensive list, so make sure you actually need what you pack, and add things you find missing to your specific needs.

Decide what you need close to you, and take it in your backpack or carry-on. Read our guide on “Checking a bag vs. carrying on. What should I do?” for more details.

Remember that some things should be kept close to you at all times. It’s essential to keep a copy of the important document such as passport, visa, and driver’s license on your carry-on/backpack and not check it in. Same for your wallet, keys, expensive electronics, cash, and your itinerary. I also like to keep a copy with a friend or family and send a copy to my email, just in case. If you have things that can make your flight more convenient, such as books, music, a flight pillow, etc., remember to pack them on your carry-on as well. In case your check-in gets lost, especially on short trips, it always helps to keep a pair of extra clothing in your carry-on so you’ll have clean clothes for when you arrive.

All the items are listed below, but I wanted to give more attention to a few of those items:

Camera

In Africa, you’ll encounter many special moments you probably haven’t experienced before. You’ll see unique views and many animals. In order to capture unforgettable moments you see in magazines, make sure you have a high-quality camera with a telephoto lens. A lens around 200mm plus should do the job and help you capture unforgettable memories.

Safari adventure is an amazing opportunity to become the photographer you always wanted to be. Read this guide on safari photography. If you want to know more about photography before your trip, check out these great online photography courses by UDEMY. Many times UDEMY offers coupons for these courses. Make sure to look for the most updated discounts on Traveling.Coupons.

Sunglasses, wide-brim Safari Hat, Sunblock

You’ll spend a lot of time in the sun. Make sure you are protected from the sun.

Binoculars

Most travelers won’t forget to bring a camera (at least their smartphone), but most won’t bring binoculars. Binoculars are essential for optimum wildlife viewing on safari.

A good set of binoculars would make your trip much more enjoyable. Many animals hide, and some would be far away. A good pair of binoculars will help you spot birds and other animals at a distance and enrich your experience. Here’s a list of binoculars that will really enrich your safari experience:

Clothing

Few things to remember about packing your cloth for a safari trip:

1. Most international airlines will restrict your check-in luggage to around 20 to 30kgs (55lbs). However, if your safari itinerary includes any light aircraft flights, then this can mean as little as 12 to 15 kgs (sometimes including your hand luggage!). Remember, a same-day laundry service is usually available in most safari camps and lodges so pack light, do laundry, and don’t change your clothes daily.
2. Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable throughout the year when on safari. Don’t go crazy buying a new safari wardrobe. Just bring reasonably comfortable and practical clothes with neutral, non-bright colors. Quick-drying shirt fabrics with ventilation and trousers that convert into shorts are worth considering. Wear clothes in layers is the most practical way to cope with fluctuating day/night temperatures and cool evenings whilst on safari. Here are the clothes you must bring to your safari trip:

• Shirts, T-shirts, or blouses with long sleeves and collars to protect you from the sun and mosquitoes
• Warm jacket
• Safari trousers you can change from long to short are great to have
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Wide sleeve hat
• In warm weather, it’s great to have a pair of open sports sandals during the daytime
• Swimsuit if you lodges and camps have a swimming pool
• A light, compact raincoat if it is likely you will encounter rain

Some Extras

• A good quality flashlight is a must. Your smartphone flash won’t do the work
• Anti-malarial tablets
• Insect Repellents
• Hand sanitizer

Don’t Bring!

Don’t bring disposable water bottles. Most safari trucks and lodges have water dispensers for topping up reusable water bottles. Here are the best reusable water bottles you can bring.

The Complete Packing List and Things to Do for Your Safari Trip