Packing for a safari can feel like a lot to remember, below we share our top tips for a smooth safari experience along with a handy safari checklist so all you need to think about is the exciting adventure ahead.
We’ve tried to cover everything and please also consider items you might need such as medications or clothing. Our guide below below should be a good start!
Before we get into what to pack for a safari we must mention our top tip – don’t feel the need to pack too much! This might sound obvious but as pack as light as you can. Most safari lodges and some bush camps have washing facilities so you can wash clothing and essentials as you go. Pack too much and it often ends up unworn!
Essential safari items to pack
First up we must mention travel documents. It might sound obvious but ensuring your passport is well within date and you have your itinerary and essential travel documents to hand well in advance is always a good idea. Here is a list of things to remember (this is by no means a comprehensive list)
- Passport
- Itinerary provided by the Wild Insights Safari team
- Travel insurance documents
- E-Tickets
- Visa (if required)
- Vaccination certificates
- Travel money
(Please check the passport validity requirements for your destination country(s) before travelling)
Safari packing checklist:
We’ve split our safari packing checklist into pre-travel things to check alongside items to pack, you can download a free and comprehensive safari packing list a bit further down this page
Pre-Travel checklist:
Assuming you’ve collated, checked and packed essential travel documents mentioned above, before getting on the flight to your dream safari make sure you:
- GP / Medical consulatation for vaccinations (well in advance)
- Anti-malarials ordered
- Medicines ordered for length of trip
- Airport travel / parking
- First aid items purchased and dedicated first aid bag packed
- Pet care arranged (if applicable)
- Notified bank of overseas trip
- Notified phone company of overseas trip
Now the fun part, packing your bag!
As we mentioned at the beginning, pack as light as you can! The below list includes most things you’ll need to pack for a safari but it is by no means comprehensive and individual preference may mean you need to bring additional items or miss off items from our list – it’s up to you! Download our full safari packing checklist below.
What to pack for a safari:
- Sun hat / Headcover
- Sunglasses
- Fleece / Jacket
- Sturdy shoes / socks
- Long sleeved shirt
- Long legged trousers
- Water bottle
- Light rucksack
- Suncream
- Insect repellent
- Binoculars
- Adapter plug
- Chargers
- Torch
Download our free safari packing checklist here
How to pack for a 10 day safari
If you’re packing for a 10 day safari think pack light, pack comfortable clothing and pack the essentials. All the items we’ve listed above in our free safari packing checklist will be items you’ll need on a 10 day safari.
Can you wear jeans on an African safari?
We do not recommend wearing jeans on safari due to their heavy weight, lack of breathability and slow drying time. Opt for lightweight, quick drying safari bottoms instead such as cotton or linen fabrics. Not only are they better options for safari clothing they’re neutral colours and will blend into the bush. A lot of trousers offer a zip-off option so you can convert them to shorts for warmer days. They also offer more pockets for essential items such as suncream and water.
For more frequently asked questions please head this way or contact us, our team has 75 years of collective safari experience so we’re always more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
