As you prepare for your incredible safari adventure, you might be wondering how to approach packing. It’s not so each to pop to the shops for anything you might have forgotten, so packing requires a little more planning and care. You might be tempted to deck yourself out in the 'safari uniform' of beige, olive, and an array of multi-pocketed vests. While there's a certain appeal to dressing the part, the reality is that packing for a safari can be quite simple and you can find what you need already in your wardrobe.

When packing for your safari adventure, remember the key is to pack light, pack smart, and be prepared for varying weather conditions.

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Clothing: Dressing for the Wild in Style & Comfort

1. Layered Clothes

   Pack smart by choosing clothes that you can match up with one another and layer up. Dressing in layers allows you to adjust your outfit according to fluctuating temperatures. Heading out in the early mornings, before sunrise, in an open-sided vehicle can be quite chilly, but temperatures can rise significantly under the mid-day sun as you sit watching an exciting sighting, and you don’t want to have to leave because you are too hot! Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics to ensure comfort throughout the day. A Gillet or body warmer is perfect for the morning and evenings and can be used as a pillow on the plane! A lightweight rain jacket can also be useful, even if it’s the dry season; this can help protect you from the wind chill in the open vehicles.

   Neutral Colours

   Neutral colours are preferred, especially if you’re planning on participating in walking safaris; they blend into the environment and reduce the chances of disturbing wildlife. However, that doesn’t mean you must rush out and buy a whole new wardrobe in shades of khaki; the key rule is to avoid super bright colours as these can startle animals.

   Comfort

   Comfort is the key factor, this is not a fashion show, you may spend hours in the safari vehicles make sure you’re are as comfortable as possible. I pack light when i go on safari and even so i always end up wearing my comfiest clothes over and over.

   Top Tip: Many lodges have free laundry services and most have some powder laundry detergent so you can wash your smalls, t-shirts and socks on the go. With the hot African sun they’ll dry in just a few hours so pack less and pack smart.

3. Accessories and Toiletries: The Essential Extras

Hat, Light Scarf & Sunglasses

The African sun can be harsh, so don't forget to pack a wide-brimmed hat for protection. A light scarf is also beneficial. It adds a layer of warmth on cooler mornings and can also be used as a cover against dust and sun.

And if you’re anything like me, you can’t live without your sunglasses with even a glimmer of the sun (apparently, green eyes are the most sensitive..), so make sure you pack a good quality pair.

Suncream and Insect Repellent

Suncream is crucial in protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, there is some great eco friendly suncreams out there and if you’re heading to the beach ensure you buy a reef-safe suncream such as Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Skin Nourishing Milk Body Sunscree SPF 30, Hawaiian Tropic have partnered with PETA to certify their products.

Likewise, an insect repellent will help to keep bothersome bugs at bay. Opt for environmentally-friendly products when possible, and I always keep away from DEET, which can be harsh on your skin. One which is family-friendly is the Badger Bug Spray & Balm stick with my favourite lemongrass scent.

Toiletries

Most safari camps provide basic toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and moisturiser. Therefore, you can save space in your luggage and reduce your load by not packing these items. One of the most common brands in Kenyan camps is Cinnabar Green, a natural cosmetics company based in Kenya that grow most of its own medicinal herbs and produces its own essential oils. So not only do you save on your restricted luggage space, but you are supporting a local eco-friendly business in the meantime. Win, Win!

4. Cameras and Binoculars: Capturing Your Unforgettable Safari Moments

Cameras

Safari trips are filled with unforgettable moments, from spotting a lioness with her cubs to watching a stunning African sunset. To ensure you capture these magical moments, bring along a good-quality camera. Whether you're a seasoned photographer with a top-notch DSLR or a casual traveller with a point-and-shoot, don't forget to include this in your packing list.

Looking for a mirrorless DSLR camera? Check out my blog ‘5 Mirrorless Cameras for Wildlife Photography’

Extra Batteries and/or Charge Packs

Always carry extra batteries or charge packs for your camera. While some safari vehicles do have charging points, they may not always be available or compatible with your device. The last thing you want is to miss capturing a spectacular wildlife encounter because of a flat battery. Remember to pack an extra memory card too - safari experiences offer countless photo opportunities, and you wouldn't want to run out of storage space!

Binoculars

Binoculars are a game-changer on safari. They bring distant wildlife up close and personal, making for some exceptional viewing experiences. Opt for a lightweight pair that's easy to carry around. If multiple people are travelling together, having a few pairs's a good idea, as animals can move away quickly, and sharing can mean missing out.

5. Bird and Wildlife Books: Your Guide to Safari's Magnificent Fauna

Traditional Bird and Wildlife Books

Bird and wildlife books such as Birds of East Africa and Behaviour Guide to African Mammals are invaluable tools on safari, helping you identify different species and providing fascinating information on their behaviours and habitats. You can even use them to tick off the species you encounter, making for a fun, interactive experience and a fantastic keepsake of your adventure.

Digital Birding and Mammal Guides

Consider downloading digital versions of bird and wildlife guides to save space and keep your packing light. These are available as apps on most smartphones and tablets, offering an easy and convenient way to carry your wildlife encyclopedia with you.

Digital guides not only include detailed descriptions and images for easy identification, but many also feature extras like bird calls, which can be a game-changer when trying to spot elusive bird species.

Remember to download your preferred apps and any necessary data before leaving, as WiFi can be spotty in some safari locations.

With these resources at your fingertips, you'll be well-equipped to identify and learn about the extraordinary animals and birds you'll encounter on your safari adventure. Happy exploring!

6. Packing for Kids: Making Safari Fun and Educational

Travelling with kids on a safari can be an incredible educational experience, stirring their interest in nature and wildlife conservation. However, keeping them engaged and entertained throughout the journey requires some additional packing considerations.

Checklist for Wildlife Spotting

Kids love a mission, so why not turn wildlife spotting into a fun game? Order a kid-friendly checklist featuring the animals and birds they're likely to encounter. They'll enjoy ticking off each creature they spot and making notes about their experiences.

Pad and Pencil for Sketching and Fact-Keeping

In addition to the checklist, pack a small pad and pencil. This way, during lengthy wildlife sightings, children can draw the animals they're observing. Encourage them to add little facts that the game driver shares about each species. Not only does this keep them engaged, but it also helps their learning and provides them with a unique souvenir from the trip while you enjoy spending time observing the animals.

Puzzle Books for Downtime

Remember that safaris aren't always about action; there can be significant quiet times both on gamedrive and around the camp. Small puzzle books like Sudoku for kids are perfect for these quieter moments. They're light, portable, and can help keep young minds busy during these periods.

Binoculars

Make sure your little ones have their very own pair of kids binoculars. Being able to see the animals clearly will keep them interested and having their own pair will ensure they aren’t always stealing yours! I recently bought my 7 year old stepdaughter a pair of Selvim Compact Binoculars 10 x 25 for our upcoming trip to Kenya.

With these items packed, your little ones will be equipped to enjoy their safari adventure and learn, create, and explore. The combination of fun and education will make this a truly unforgettable experience for them.

7. Adaptor Plugs: Keeping Your Devices Powered

In our digital age, the last thing you want is to arrive at your destination and discover that you can't charge your devices because your plug doesn't fit the local sockets. Although taking a step back from gadgets and gizmos on safari is highly recommended so, if you do forget your adaptors or chargers, you may be in for a very rewarding trip!

Before leaving for your safari adventure, ensure you check what type of plug is used in the country you're travelling to. Types of plugs can vary greatly between different countries, so this step is essential. For example, South Africa uses type D and M plugs, while Kenya and Tanzania use type G plugs.

Invest in a good quality travel adaptor that corresponds with the plug type in your destination country. Universal travel adaptors are also a great option, as they can be adjusted to fit a variety of socket types.

By ensuring you have the right adaptor plugs, you can keep your devices charged and ready to go, capturing all the magical moments that your safari trip will undoubtedly offer.

I also travel with a power bank so that i’m always able to recharge my camera while out on game drive or in camps where they don’t have 24-hour electricity.

8. Baggage: Understanding the Rules and Restrictions

Perhaps the most crucial aspect of packing for a safari is understanding the rules and restrictions concerning your luggage. Safaris often involve travel on smaller bush planes, which come with significant weight and size restrictions due to limited space.

Quite often, the total weight limit for all your bags - including hand luggage and checked-in luggage is as low as 15kg to 20kg. Moreover, because of the tight storage areas in these planes, your checked-in bags need to be soft-sided luggage, as rigid suitcases may not fit.

Before packing, it's critical to check with your travel agent or airline about the specific luggage requirements for your journey. You can pack accordingly and avoid any last-minute repacking, excess baggage charges or having to leave belongings behind.

Another handy tip is to inquire about luggage storage options. For instance, if your itinerary includes both a safari and a beach stay and you're passing through the same airport, you may be able to leave your beach gear with your agent while on safari, and vice versa. This way, you can keep your luggage light and manageable during each leg of your trip.

Remember, packing for a safari is not just about what you bring but also how you bring it. Understanding and complying with baggage rules and restrictions will make your safari adventure smoother and more enjoyable.