A safari is an opportunity to see some of the world’s most magnificent animals up close in their natural habitat. It’s also an opportunity to explore nature, learn about other cultures, and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
But before you embark on your safari adventure, there are a few things you’ll need to pack. Here is a list of absolute safari trip essentials:
Safari Trip Essentials – What to Pack When Going on an African Safari
- Safari wear
- Safari footwear
- Binoculars
- Camera and chargers
- Dopp kit or small toiletry bag
- Sunscreen
- Baseball cap or sunhat
- Insect repellent
- First-aid kit
- Torch
- Multi-purpose tool
- Portable power bank
- Extra batteries
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Prescription and preventative meds
- Passport
- Itinerary
- Travel Insurance Docs
- eTickets
- Toiletries
Safari Wear – What to Wear on a Safari
When embarking on a safari, it is important to dress for the occasion. In addition to being comfortable, safari wear should be loose-fitting and light-colored.
Bright colors can disrupt wildlife, so it is best to stick to neutral tones like khaki, olive, and brown. Natural fibers like linen and cotton are also a good choice, as they help to keep you cool in the heat. Here is an outline of safari wear to help you pack adequately:
- 2 – 4 T-shirts
- A pair or two of shorts for midday wear
- Safari trousers or jeans (a pair or two) for cool days or evenings
- Windbreaker/fleece jacket for layering
- Long-sleeved shirts for protection from the sun and mosquitoes
- Sleeveless shirts for warmer days
- T-shirts
- Shorts or a light skirt
- Cotton or khaki pants for dinner
- Long-sleeve button-down sports shirt for dinner
- Swimming costume
- Underwears
- Sweaters and jackets for early morning and late afternoon game drives
- A lightweight waterproof jacket in case of rain
Safari Footwear – What Shoes to Wear on a Safari
Your footwear is just as important as your clothing on a safari. You will be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. But they also need to be able to withstand the elements, as you will be spending time both in and out of the vehicle.
Ideally, safari footwear should be:
- Comfortable
- Closed-toe
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Water-resistant or waterproof
- Non-slip
- Easy to pack
A few good options for safari footwear include:
- Hiking shoes
- Trail running shoes
- Low-top sneakers
- Boots (lightweight, water-resistant)
- Footwear accessories like gaiters and blister-free socks
Safari Electronics – Which Electronics to Pack for a Safari
A safari trip provides a great opportunity to connect with nature and all its offerings. Some think it is a way to disconnect from technology and the outside world. But certain electronics can enhance your experience, as long as you use them mindfully.
Here is a list of electronics to pack for a safari trip:
- Camera and a waterproof bag for storage
- Headphone or earphone
- Watch
- Binoculars – to watch animals from the distance
- Extra memory cards or flash disks to have enough storage room
- Spare camera battery so you don’t miss any moment due to low battery
- Spare AA and AAA battery for torch or headlamp
- Electrical adaptor
- Small flashlight
- iPad or tablet for storing photos and handy travel apps.
Toiletries – What Toiletries to Pack for a Safari
While on safari, you will be spending a lot of time outdoors. So it is important to pack toiletries that are both effective and efficient. Here is a list of toiletries to pack for a safari trip:
- Sunscreen
- Female hygiene products
- Insect repellent
- Lip balm
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissues
- Wet wipes
- Toilet paper
- Bobby pins, hair ties, etc.
- Cleanser/makeup remover
- Brush or comb
- Moisturizer
- Serum
- Eye cream or gel
- Toothpaste and toothbrush
- Razor
- Deodorant
- Makeup kit with select items
- First-aid kit
Dopp kit
A small toiletry bag or Dopp kit comes in handy for carrying all essential toiletries, like toothpaste and deodorant. They also provide a convenient way to keep track of any medications you might need and any other small items you might need while on your Safari adventure.
Other Safari Trip Essentials – What Else to Pack for a Safari
In addition to the safari trip essential items mentioned above, you should pack a few other things for your safari trip.
A Small Daypack or Backpack
A daypack or backpack can carry essential items like water, snacks, and sunscreen. On a long safari day, these items can make all the difference in terms of comfort and enjoyment. A daypack can also carry any souvenirs or purchases made during the safari.
Secondly, a daypack or backpack can be useful for storing things like binoculars or cameras. Having quick access to these items can help you make the most of your safari experience by allowing you to take better pictures and spot wildlife more easily.
Documents
When going on a safari, it is important to pack all necessary documents. This includes passports, tickets, and an itinerary. Passports are essential for international travel, and tickets are required for entry into safari parks. The itinerary is important for keeping track of where you need to go and when. It can also be helpful to have a map of the area.
Layering Clothes
The weather on a safari can vary greatly, so it is important to pack clothing that can be layered. A few light layers, like a t-shirt, sweater, and jacket, should suffice. But it can also include a hat, bandana, etc. This way, you will be prepared for both warm and cool weather.
Frequently Asked Questions About Safari Trip Essentials
What is the best time of year to go on a safari?
The best time of year to go on a safari varies depending on the location. For example, the best time to see the wildebeest migration in Tanzania is from June to October.
What is the best way to travel to a safari destination?
The best way to travel to a safari destination varies depending on the location. For example, many people take flights to Tanzania or Kenya, the most popular safari destinations. But you can take a bus or drive if you’re within East Africa.
What is the best way to get around on a safari?
The best way to get around on a safari also varies depending on the location. In Tanzania and Kenya, most safaris are done by vehicle. But in other parts of Africa, like South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia, safaris are often done on foot.
What are the most common mistakes people make when packing for a safari?
Some of the most common mistakes people make when packing for a safari include forgetting to pack essential items. Others include packing too much or packing items inappropriate for the safari environment.
What should I wear on a safari?
When packing for a safari, it is important to pack clothing that is comfortable, durable, and appropriate for the safari environment. This means avoiding clothing that is too loose or flowy, as it can get caught on branches or bushes. It is also important to avoid colors like red, orange, and cyan, as studies have shown they can attract insects. Instead, opt for neutral colors like khaki, brown, and green.
Is it OK to wear white on safari?
Yes, you can wear white on safari. However, it is important to avoid bright white colors as they can be too visible in the bush. Instead, opt for a cream or off-white color. If you want to wear white on a safari, you could do it in the evening for dinner.
What should you not wear on safari?
Avoid loose clothes, bright clothes, and fragrances that can attract insects. You should also avoid anything too complicated or delicate, as it can be difficult to keep clean in the bush. It is generally best to stick to simple, comfortable clothing that won’t stand out too much.
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