What to Pack for an African Safari (2025 Expert Guide)

In this updated guide, you'll get an insider breakdown of safari essentials: clothing that works in real conditions, clever gadgets and gear that make life easier, and the items that first-timers always forget. Plus — when you book a safari through us, you'll receive not just a detailed daily itinerary and destination guide, but also a printable safari packing checklist tailored to your trip.

Hard-shell suitcases may survive the baggage carousel in Europe, but they're a nightmare on safari. Many lodges and small bush planes require soft-sided duffel bags, which are easier to load into Land Cruisers and lightweight aircraft.

• Check the weight limits. Regional flights often allow only 15–20 kg (33–44 lbs) including hand luggage, and they mean it.
• Daypack essential. A small backpack is useful for camera gear, water, sunscreen, and personal items on game drives.

Pro tip: Always confirm with your safari operator about luggage restrictions before you fly. We'll give you exact allowances for every leg of your trip.

Forget fashion — safari clothing is about comfort, practicality, and blending into the bush.

• The golden rule: layers. Early mornings can be near freezing, while afternoons hit 30°C (86°F) or more. Pack a warm fleece, long-sleeve shirts, and light T-shirts to mix and match.
• Colours matter. Stick to neutrals like khaki, beige, olive, or light grey. Bright colours and whites stand out, and dark blue or black can attract tsetse flies in some areas.
• Key items. Pack lightweight long trousers and a couple of breathable shirts for game drives and bush walks. Don't forget swimming gear — most lodges have pools, and nothing beats a refreshing dip in the midday heat after a morning out in the bush.

What not to wear: Camouflage prints, which are restricted for civilians in many African countries.

You won't need heavy-duty hiking boots unless you're doing a gorilla trek.

• Walking shoes or trainers. Comfortable, broken-in sneakers are perfect for lodge paths and nature walks.
• Sandals with thick soles. Ideal for warm afternoons and poolside, but avoid flimsy flip-flops on dusty paths or thorny ground.

Extra tip: Pack light socks — they're easy to wash and essential for cooler evenings.

Africa's sun is intense, even in winter.

• Wide-brimmed hat. A must-have for game drives. Baseball caps don't protect your neck.
• Sunglasses. Polarised lenses cut glare and make wildlife viewing easier.
• Scarf or kikoi. Useful for blocking dust, adding warmth, or covering up in the sun.
• Rain jacket or windbreaker. Even in dry season, unexpected showers or breezy drives can catch you out.

Expert tip: Winter safaris (May–August) in Southern Africa require a warm jacket, gloves, and beanie for early drives.

These are items that seasoned safari-goers swear by:

• Kikoi or sarong. Functions as a blanket, towel, shawl, picnic mat, or even makeshift pillow.
• Sports bra. For women, essential on bumpy roads.
• Shewee or similar device. Game drives don't always come with convenient restroom stops.

Trust us: These little extras don't take up space but make a big difference in comfort.

Most lodges provide the basics (soap, shampoo, conditioner), but you'll want to bring a few extras.

• Moisturiser & lip balm. African air is dry and dusty.
• Insect repellent. Choose one with DEET or picaridin for evenings.
• Travel-size kit. Decant your usual products to save space and comply with luggage limits.

Health prep is about prevention and peace of mind.

• Prescription meds. Always bring enough for the duration of your trip, in original packaging.
• Malaria prophylaxis. Many safari areas are in malaria zones — consult your doctor before you travel.
• DIY first-aid kit. Painkillers, antihistamines, rehydration salts, and plasters are handy for minor ailments.

Insider advice: If any of your medication requires refrigeration, let your safari planner know during your initial consultation so they can suggest lodges or safari tents equipped with minibar fridges.

Wildlife doesn't always wait for you to adjust your settings — the right gear makes a difference.

• Camera choice. DSLRs and mirrorless cameras give the best results, but even a good smartphone can capture incredible shots.
• Zoom lens. 200–400 mm is ideal for wildlife; anything longer can be heavy to lug around.
• Binoculars. A good pair (8x42 or 10x42) makes game drives far more rewarding, especially for birding.

Pro tip: Bring spare memory cards and batteries — charging options can be limited.

Electricity isn't always a given in remote camps.

• Plug adaptors. South Africa uses a unique 3-pin plug, while East Africa often uses UK-style plugs.
• Portable power bank. Keeps phones and cameras alive on long drives.
• Headlamp or flashlight. Essential in camps where you walk between tents at night.

Keep the essentials safe and accessible.

• Passport & visas. Double-check expiry dates and entry requirements.
• Yellow fever card. Required for certain countries if you've travelled in risk zones.
• Cash & cards. US dollars (East Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe) and South African rand (South Africa and Namibia) are widely accepted. Lodge tips are usually given in cash.

Save space (and headaches) by leaving these at home:

• Heavy hiking boots. Overkill unless trekking gorillas or chimps.
• Camouflage gear. Illegal for civilians in some countries.
• Bright white clothes. Too much dust, too impractical.
• Excess luggage. You'll regret it when loading bush planes.

This is what you'll actually carry into the bush each day:

• Reusable water bottle. Stay hydrated in the heat.
• Sunscreen & insect repellent. Apply often.
• Camera, binoculars, sunglasses. Your holy trinity of game drives.
• Personal items. Lip balm, tissues, medications, and a light snack.

Pro tip: Keeping your bag light makes hopping in and out of safari vehicles much easier.

Packing for safari isn't about having the fanciest gear — it's about being smart, prepared, and comfortable in the bush. With these tips, you'll be ready for everything from icy dawn game drives to golden sunsets by the firepit.

When you book with us, you'll receive more than a detailed itinerary. We'll also provide a personalised safari guide (covering health, tipping, weather, and lodge advice) and a printable safari packing checklist tailored to your trip. That way, you can relax, knowing you're 100% safari ready.

Ready to plan your dream safari — and let us handle the packing list? Contact our safari specialists today.