What Clothes Should You Pack for Safari?
Comfort is more important than looking like you're on safari.
Choose lightweight clothes that are easy to layer. Neutral shades such as khaki, beige, brown and muted green are practical choices.
We'd pack:
- Lightweight T-shirts or shirts
- Light trousers or shorts
- Long trousers for evenings
- A long-sleeved shirt
- A fleece or warm jumper
- A lightweight jacket
- Underwear and comfortable sleepwear
- Swimwear if your lodge has a pool
Early morning game drives can be surprisingly cold. This is especially true during the Southern African winter.
Layers are your friend. You can start the morning wrapped up and remove them as the day warms.
What Shoes Do You Need?
For most game drives, you don't need heavy walking boots.
A comfortable pair of trainers or lightweight walking shoes is usually enough. Pack proper walking shoes if your itinerary includes a walking safari or trekking.
Sandals or flip-flops are also useful around your lodge.
Our tip: Don't overpack.
Many safari lodges offer a laundry service. This means you can often take fewer clothes than you think.
Always check your luggage allowance before travelling. Light aircraft may have lower weight limits and may require soft-sided bags.
Safari Essentials
There are a few things we'd always make room for.
- Binoculars. A good pair makes a huge difference when wildlife is further away.
- Sun hat. Choose one that gives you plenty of protection.
- Sunglasses.
- High-factor sunscreen.
- Lip balm.
- Insect repellent.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Small backpack or day bag.
- Small torch or head torch. This can be useful around camps after dark.
What About Cameras and Phones?
You don't need professional camera equipment to enjoy a safari.
A phone can capture some wonderful moments. A camera with a zoom lens will give you more options when animals are further away.
If you're taking a camera, remember spare batteries and memory cards.
A portable power bank can also be useful. Charging facilities vary between camps.
And don't spend the whole safari looking through a screen. Some moments are better simply watched.
What Should Go in Your Hand Luggage?
Keep your most important items with you.
That includes your passport, travel documents and any essential medication.
We'd also pack a change of clothes and a few basic toiletries. It's useful if your checked luggage is delayed.
Medication should be kept in its original packaging. Check the entry requirements for your destination before travelling with prescription medicines.
Do You Need Malaria Tablets?
This depends on where you're travelling and your own medical circumstances.
We wouldn't recommend relying on a general packing list for medical advice.
Check the latest health guidance for your destination. Speak to your GP, pharmacist or travel health clinic about vaccinations and malaria prevention.
One Last Packing Tip
Leave a little space in your bag.
You really don't need a different outfit for every evening. Safari tends to be relaxed and informal.
Pack for comfort, changing temperatures and dusty game drives.
Most importantly, check the requirements for your actual itinerary. A Botswana fly-in safari can have very different luggage rules from a road-based safari in South Africa.
You can also explore our Africa holidays and destinations for more inspiration.
