The Ultimate Travel

Essentials Checklist

Before you start packing

When packing for your safari the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.


Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection. You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

Please note that the list of items packed is dependent on the number of days your adventure is extending for. keep in mind not to carry to much luggage as a general rule of if you can not lift your luggage then you have pretty much packed too much 

Avoid military-inspired clothing

You should never wear camouflage or military-inspired clothing in Africa as it can look like you’re impersonating military personnel and can lead to questioning by police or even arrests

Don’t pack the plastic bags

Plastic bags are completely banned in many African countries like Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda. This includes everything from plastic grocery bags to plastic packaging and plastic ziploc bags. Instead, use a see-through toiletry bag for your toiletries at the airport, and cotton totes for everything else.

Don’t pack your best clothes

While it’s nice to have one or two dressy outfits for evenings out, you don’t want a suitcase full of fancy clothes. Go for casual and comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting covered in sweat and dirt.

packing checklist

Do not over Pack

While your international airline luggage limit might be 30kg, it’s likely a lot less on domestic flights within Africa or on safari. Choose a small, lightweight suitcase or soft bag, and only pack the essentials. You’ll also want to leave room for souvenirs! Remember, most lodges and hotels will have laundry facilities, so you can wash your clothes instead of bringing an outfit for every day of your trip.

  • 2/3 shorts/skirts
  • 1 jacket/anorak
  • Tracksuit/pullover
  • Raincoat
  • 1 pair of sandal
  • 3 or 4 T-shirts
  • Sun Hat
  • long pants/jeans
  • shoes/boots

Essentials to pack for any trip to Africa

Your clothing should be easy to wash and dry and should preferably not need ironing. Avoid synthetics, which can be very uncomfortable in hot weather. Many people underestimate how cold Africa can be – remember your jersey/jacket! There are also nights that are warm but you must still wear clothes that cover arms and legs from mosquitoes, or there are days that are warm but nights that are freezing so plan carefully. Take a set of casual but smart clothes for the occasional evening out in a restaurant or club. If you wear glasses (or contacts) it is also advisable to bring a spare pair along.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment.

The most important things for your luggage –

The really important stuff

  • Torch & enough spare batteries (headtorch is best)
  • Suntan lotion, sun block & after sun lotion
  • Sunglasses
  • Extra passport photos
  • Small basic First Aid kit (painkillers, band aids, after-sun lotion, eye drops, anti-diarrhoea tablets. )
  • Camera & spare batteries and memory cards
  • Plastic bags (Ziplock)
  • Water bottle
  • Watch
  • Water bottle
  • Biodegradable laundry detergent
  • Money
  • A small padlock for your luggage locker in the truck
  • Beanie and gloves if you’re travelling in Winter
  • Towel & facecloth
  • Baby wipes/ Wet Wipes
  • Penknife
  • Insect and Mosquito repellent
  • Passport (plus a copy of your passport & visas)
  • Vaccination certificate
  • 3 or 4 T-shirts/short sleeve shirts or sundresses
  • Personal toiletries
  • Sleeping bag