How to pack for a safari
If there is one question that we get asked more than any other, it is ‘what do I need to pack when I go on safari?’
What type of safari?
Your safari packing list does depend on what type of safari you are going on. Packing for a 4 day, first-time safari in the Kruger is vastly different to what you'll need for a 10 day walking trail in Namibia.
How much luggage allowance?
Many of the small aircraft in Botswana and East Africa are limited to 15kg of luggage per passenger in soft sided bags. This is necessary as often the light aircraft only have limited luggage compartments with very small doors. Unless the pilot can squish and flex your bag, it may not get in!
You may have considered leaving luggage at an airport for the next part of your trip. But do remember that some itineraries don’t route back the same way, so it may not always be possible to pick up your planned extra kit! Knighton Reeve will discuss the options with you as we plan your trip.
To khaki or not to khaki?
Safaris can be hot, dusty and sweaty (you wouldn’t have known that from watching Meryl Streep and her timeless, turn-of-the-century elegance in Out of Africa, would you?) Sticking to neutrals means your clothes won’t show the dirt! Adventure clothing might make you look like an intrepid overseas correspondent, but it is easy and quick to wash and usually doesn’t need ironing.
Most animals only see in black and white and don’t see the subtle differences between colours. Staying in a neutral palette makes you look the part and let’s face it, it's half the fun of a safari.
On walking safaris your guide might request that you wear neutral coloured clothing to blend in. Be careful of blending in too much, though, as army camouflage is outlawed in some African countries!
The East African Tsetse flies are attracted to blue and black so especially in these areas we really recommend that you stick to neutral colours.
Safari Footwear
For bush walks a comfortable pair of all terrain shoes or a trainer is more than perfect. If you are going on a more adventurous walk we’d say pick your shoes in the same way you would if you were going for a hike in the UK. Whichever you choose, we recommend breaking them in before you travel.
Wrap up and check your seasons
Many parts of Africa, especially those in Southern Africa experience their winter when the UK experiences their summer. This means that whilst the days can be hot and sunny, with clear blue skies, the lack of clouds means that the temperatures plummet at night. Add this to the fact that most game drives take place on open vehicles, and the wind chill factor, it is not surprising that the most comfortable safari goers are the ones dressed like they are going on a ski holiday! Most of the lodges do kit out the vehicles with blankets and hot water bottles, and their gift shops do a roaring trade in hats and gloves.
Your safari packing list
As part of the service we provide at Knighton Reeve we send a recommended packing list out with your travel documents.
The 'Kondo' way to pack
Organisational guru Marie Kondo recommends laying out everything you are planning to take with you and ask yourself if you'll wear it. If the answer is no, don't pack it! Fold or roll your clothes for fewer creases.
Pack for a Purpose
If giving back to the community you are visiting is important, visit Pack for a Purpose to find out what items it may be useful to take with you. Simply use a small amount of space in your luggage for supplies needed by community projects. The added bonus, you have space in your luggage to give back to the community twice by purchasing some locally crafted souvenirs on your travels!
A discount on your safari essentials
As a travel benefit exclusively for you, Knighton Reeve have negotiated a unique discount code with www.thesafaristore.com. Receive up to 10% off selected safari purchases. Your code will be shared on confirmation of your booking and sent with your travel documents prior to travel.
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For Expert Advice & Inspirational Safaris
Call us on 01904 866 033 or email: africa@knightonreeve.co.uk to plan your African holiday.on