As a part of planning your trip, you might be confused about what things to pack when going to Africa. With limited suitcase space, you can just limit yourself to the essentials. So, what should you carry and what should leave behind?

When deciding the things to carry on African travel, it largely depends on whether you’re going to warm or cold weather, what you’re going to do, and who is going on the trip e.g., male, female, kids, pregnant, etc.

We’ve done a thorough checklist to remind you of the things to bring along on your trip.

The “must have” things to pack when going to Africa

Let’s begin with the most crucial items to pack for your African safari before going into other details (such as clothes to wear, nice-to-haves, the optional which you can leave, and more). In fact, you almost can’t travel anywhere without some of them.

1. Passport: There is nothing worse than arriving at the airport only to realize that your passport is at home. Check and check again that you have it in your luggage before you leave.
2. Key documentation: You might want to have ready digital copies or hardcopy prints of important trip documents such as your health certifications, flight confirmation, visa details, travel itinerary, and a copy of your passport.
3. Bank cards (and maybe a little cash too just in case): In short, have multiple ways of readily withdrawing money during travel and upon arriving at your destination.
4. Prescription medications: Don’t forget to put your medications in your luggage and ensure that you have sufficient to last you for the entire safari.
5. Mobile phones: smartphones come in handy when going on an African safari. From navigating a new place to calling your loved ones, it’s worth carrying one or more in your luggage.
6. Tablet/laptop: If you want to work remotely when traveling to Africa check that you have your laptop or tablet in the bag.
7. Chargers and adaptors: While packing your mobile devices don’t forget the chargers as well.
8. Eyes glasses (if applicable): If you need to see properly, ensure they’re packed.
9. Purse/wallet: Have a safe way to carry cards, cash, and other personal items while walking around.
10. Clothes and toiletries: You need to bring only the relevant clothing for your trip (don’t overpack or underpack).
11. Camera and binoculars (optional): Binoculars are important for maximum wildlife viewing while going on a safari tour.

Things to pack for a hot weather destination

Summer is one of the best (if not the best) seasons to tour Africa with friends or family. The temperatures are hotter, the days are longer and animals are often out and about searching for their next meal.

So, if you’re going to an arid/hot/warm weather destination (depending on the time of the year) then this packing list should help give you an idea of what to carry.

• Loose-fitting clothes such as harem pants
• Light-cotton t-shirts (avoid brighter colors like white because of sweating)
• Shorts
• A pair of jeans or two
• Socks (made of a fast-drying material if possible)
• Comfortable sneakers or shoes for walking safaris
• Swimwear
• Sunscreen (this might be a bit obvious but don’t forget it)
• Sunglasses
• Water-resistant beach bag
• Water bottle to help you stay hydrated during your safari.
• Bathing suit
• Compact umbrella

Things to pack for cold weather 

Packing light during the cold season is harder than packing light during summer. This is because, on cold weather safaris, you will require heavier clothes and a bit more extra accessories.

Here are some suggestions on what to pack to keep you comfortable and warm.

• A warm coat or jacket
• Two or more sweaters/jumpers
• Windbreaker/thin waterproof layer
• Lightweight sweatshirt or fleece
• A scarf, hat, and gloves to keep your hands warm
• Warm socks (possibly woolen ones)
• Thermal underwear
• Waterproof boots/shoes

What to pack when traveling with kids

Traveling with kids to Africa isn’t any different from any other destination. The key thing is to ensure you have everything your kids may require during the trip. Here is a packing checklist for a safari with kids:

• Diapers and wipes
• A changing pad
• Diaper lotion or cream
• Large resealable bags
• Baby blankets (multiple)
• Emergency food
• Soft books and toys to keep them occupied
• Necessary clothing including for warmth
• Swimsuit
• Socks
• Shoes or booties

What women should pack for African travel?

• Women’s hygiene and beauty kits
• Cotton pants or trousers
• Comfortable shorts
• Sweatshirt/fleece/t-shirts
• Flannel pajama pants for cold nights
• Cotton wrap
• Bras (including sports bras if you intend to be sporty)
• Lots of cotton underwear
• Thin waterproof raincoat
• Durable, lightweight, and closed shoes
• Sandals or flip-flops for around camp, (to wear when in the shower)
• Sunglasses (for the bright sun as well as the dust)
• Any other important stuff

What to pack for a National Park Safari tour

It is always good to be prepared when visiting national parks. Some parks may have stores for specific things, but their price tags are normally high. In addition, you can’t be sure if they have all you require.

 Here is our national park packing checklist to help you have an amazing safari experience:

• Reusable water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Map
• Trekking poles
• Snacks
• Binoculars
• Hiking shoes
• Backpack
• Tent (if you’re camping)
• Headlamp
• Sleeping bag
• First aid kit

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of luggage bag is ideal when out for an African safari tour?

Lightweight soft-sided bags or cases are easy to move with while on a safari tour. Hard-shell cases are not perfect and may be problematic, for example, to squeeze onto luggage shelves. Some of the adventures, like gorilla trekking, will need a waterproof and sturdy backpack.

How much money should you carry when going on an Africa safari?

The amount of money you require on your safari will vary greatly depending on your destination and travel style. This is why need to set a budget and research you’re traveling to while planning the places to visit when going to Africa.

What are the best days to visit a national park in Africa?

You should aim to visit the park when it’s least crowded. This could be a time of the year when many people aren’t thinking of having a vacation or days of the week when hikers are busy at work (a weekday is better than a weekend).

Winding Up

Going through a checklist and ticking all the boxes ensures you carry all the important things you need on your African trip. Still, you should pack light and pay attention to essentials like travel documentation, clothing, personal hygiene and grooming, footwear, and more.