What to pack for a safari?

Packing lists are widely available all over the internet, with every travel agent and tour operator will have their own packing lists, all of which all are very similar. Please find below Eight Points Africa recommended packing list.

Suggestions of What to Pack
It is important to pack light – remember that very strict weight restrictions apply on the light aircraft that ferry you from lodge to lodge within the remote regions – a maximum of 20kg per person INCLUDING hand luggage/camera equipment. Furthermore only soft bags will be accepted – hard suitcases and bags with rigid frames may not be accepted by the pilot, causing considerable difficulties, delays and expense to the traveller. These restrictions are safety-related, and safety will not be compromised.

• Valid passport for international travel
• Passports must be valid for at least six month. Passengers travelling with passports, which do not comply with these requirements, will either be stopped from boarding the aircraft or risk deportation on arrival.
• Visa if required
• Reconfirm travel documents requirements with your carrier before departure
• Additional form of photo ID - (e.g. driver’s license)
• Photocopy of passport, visa and travel tickets to carry separately from your travel documents
• Air tickets
• Travel Insurance
• Some local currency. (South African Rand, Botswana Pula and US Dollars)

 
Clothing should be casual and light-weight, in neutral colours - avoid whites and bright colours like red, yellow and blue. There will be opportunities to do laundry along the way so you don’t have to bring too much.
 
Suggested Minimum Packing List:

• 2 pairs of khaki cotton long pants / trousers

• 1 pair of shorts
• 3 x lightweight fast-dry (hiking styled) shirts and tshirts
• 2 long sleeved shirts (for sun protection as well as warmth)
• 1 light jersey or jacket
• 1 warm top (fleece) good for around the fire in the evenings.
• 1 lightweight raincoat/windbreaker or a waterproof poncho – year round essential
• 1 pair of sturdy walking shoes & 1 pair of casual shoes or sandals
• Swimming costume
• 1 hat with a broad brim (a cap does not cover your neck and ears so precautions need to be taken for proper sun protection, The African sun is harsh from every angle)
• Fleece beanie (can be traded for a buff) – The breeze generated by a safari vehicle can be chilly, particularly on the ears.
• 1 or 2 x Buffs (multi-functional tubular bandanna) – This is a versatile accessory with a range of uses, from keeping your hair off your face, the sun or cold wind off your neck, the dust off your camera or even folded double as a beanie.

 
Early mornings and evenings can be very cold, especially during the game activities. Layers are the most practical for the fluctuating day/night temperatures. In addition to the list of clothing above, in the cooler months you should also pack:

• 1 track suit (comfortable enough to sleep in)
• Extra jersey and jacket
• Beanie, scarf and gloves

 
Don’t forget these additional necessities:

• Sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent
• Sunglasses
• Lightweight binoculars & camera
• Flashlight (one PER PERSON) and spare batteries
• Anti-histamine tablets if you are susceptible to allergens/hay-fever
• Kindle, iPad
• Phone and charger (You can pick up a local sim card at the airport).
• Camera and charger.
• A couple of re-sealable plastic bags.

 
Safari Accessories/ Aids:

• 1 x birding book or app (Robert’s 7 Multimedia Birds of Southern Africa but if not available Sasol eBirds).
• 1 x mammals’ book or App (Guide to Mammals of Southern Africa by Chris and Mathilde Stuart).

 
Optional extras:

• 1 x sandals/ flip-flops (for around the camp or to air feet).
• 1 x sarong/ shawl (addition protection from the elements).
• 1 x toiletries/amenities