For many first-time safari-goers, this part can feel oddly intimidating. What to wear, what to bring, what to leave behind? We get asked these questions often. But packing shouldn’t feel like a puzzle. It should feel like part of the excitement. The build-up to that boarding call. So, let’s take the guesswork out of it.
Firstly, size matters.
Not all luggage is safari-suitable. While international flights allow for generous baggage, light aircraft flights to remote safari lodges are another story. Most limit you to 15–20 kg (33–44 lb), often including carry-ons and camera gear—and yes, nine times out of ten, they do weigh it.
The bag itself matters too. Soft-sided duffels are the gold standard, especially for those tight luggage compartments. Hard-shell cases and bulky wheel frames are typically frowned upon. For active excursions like gorilla trekking, an additional waterproof daypack or backpack is best. When in doubt, go soft, light, and streamlined.
Pro tip for overpackers and photographers: if you’re carrying heavy camera gear or simply can’t travel light due to onward plans, speak to your travel specialist. It may be possible to pre-arrange excess baggage at a cost, but it’s not guaranteed. This usually depends on the final flight manifest, which is often only confirmed the night before departure. You may also be able to securely store a suitcase of non-safari essentials with your operator until your return. Just be sure to confirm this in advance, as not all operators offer this service, and bring spare locks or cable ties just in case.
Alternatively, some airlines sell small bags at check-in. So if you were on track to meet the weight restrictions but your souvenirs had other plans, you can offload some of the heavier items for safe-keeping. Just be prepared, because trust me, you don’t want to be that person repacking at the check-in desk with an audience. It only has to happen once.
Safari Essentials
Not sure what to wear on safari? Start with two golden rules: keep it neutral, and layer up. You don’t need to invest in a full wardrobe of khaki (unless that’s your style), and while channelling Out of Africa elegance is tempting, it may feel a little out of place in the bush. You’ll be spending long hours in an open or semi-open safari vehicle, often under the full glare of the African sun. Prioritise comfort, choose breathable fabrics, and pack clothes that are easy to layer for those crisp mornings and warm afternoons.
Colour is Key
Think neutral, natural, and understated. Earthy tones like green, grey, brown, and khaki blend best with the bush and are preferred for game drives (and essential for walking safaris). Leave the neon brights and bold prints for your private plunge pool. And while white might look crisp and safari-chic in theory, it’s near-impossible to keep clean in the dust. If you don’t get dusty, are you really on safari?
Lighter colours help keep you cool, while dark ones absorb heat. In East Africa, it’s often said that tsetse flies are drawn to navy and royal blue—and their bite packs a punch. I put the theory to the test and still got the occasional bite. Either way, the fly-swatters on your vehicle will quickly become your best friend.
One last note: while camouflage prints might be a style choice for some, they’re best left at home, as they’re illegal for civilians in certain African countries.
The art of Packing Light
Packing cubes aren’t for everyone—but I never travel without them. They make it easy to group, sort, and compress everything in your suitcase. They come in all shapes and sizes and they’re especially helpful when space and weight are limited.
Less is (always) more. That’s the golden rule of safari packing. With strict luggage restrictions and most lodges offering daily laundry, there’s no need to overpack. Think safari capsule wardrobe: three or four mix-and-match outfits in lightweight, breathable fabrics are all you need. Include a balance of long and short sleeves, plus long trousers and shorts.
After a dusty day, just pop your clothes in the laundry bag. They’ll usually be returned by turndown or the next morning. In some regions, laundry services exclude ladies’ undergarments for cultural reasons, but most suites provide laundry soap for handwashing.
And a final tip: if you’re prone to a bit of souvenir shopping, leave room in your bag. The weight limits apply on the way back, too.
Pack for four seasons in a day.
There’s a misconception that Africa is always hot. While the days can indeed be scorching, mornings and evenings—especially on game drives before sunrise—can be surprisingly chilly. At higher altitudes, like the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, even seasoned travellers are caught off guard by the brisk, unpredictable weather.
Think four seasons in one day. That’s where layering comes in. Pack a mix of long, short and sleeveless tops, plus long trousers and shorts. Add a lightweight scarf (for warmth or sun protection) and a fleece or puffer jacket. If you feel the cold, a beanie and thin gloves are a smart addition. Most safari vehicles will be stocked with blankets year-round and hot water bottles on winter mornings, but it’s best to come prepared.
In summer, a light rain jacket is handy, though many lodges provide ponchos on the vehicles and umbrellas in the suites.
Dresses and skirts are great for around the lodge or pool, but less so for the often-awkward climb on and off the safari vehicle. For footwear, sandals or flip‑flops are perfect for around camp (flip flops are also fine for game drive, depending how cold the mornings are). For nature walks, bring closed shoes with decent tread and socks to guard against ticks. Hiking boots are only necessary if you’re doing a walking safari or gorilla trek, in which case, make sure they’re waterproof and well broken‑in.
A few final essentials: a cap or sun hat (one that can get wrinkled in transit), sunglasses, swimming costume, and a buff or bandana to shield from sun and dust.
Dress Code.
Guests often ask if there’s a dress code for dinner. The short answer: not really. Some guests prefer to change into a collared shirt or slacks; others stay in their jeans. Comfort is key, and lodges keep it casual.
For the ladies, as romantic as evening dinners can be, I don’t recommend dresses or skirts at night—mosquitoes love bare legs. Lightweight trousers or long dresses are a safer bet.
There’s plenty of time after your evening drive to head back to your suite, shower off the day’s dust, and freshen up. A security guard will escort you from the vehicle to your suite and return to walk you to dinner at your preferred time.
Self Care on Safari
Ask your travel specialist for a suggested packing list and find out what’s already provided. At the lodges, you’ll find premium organic toiletries—shampoo, conditioner, body wash, scrub, and lotion—housed in eco-friendly glass pump bottles. The range is inspired by Africa’s natural botanicals and crafted by Healing Earth, a leading spa and skincare brand.
A tip for those with long hair: the African sun, wind and dust can take their toll, so I like to bring a small bottle of extra-rich conditioner, just in case.
Don’t forget high-SPF sunscreen, after-sun and lip balm. Most guides carry sunscreen on the safari vehicle, and many suites will have it stocked, but it’s wise to bring your own and apply regularly.
If you take any specific medication, keep it in your carry-on and store it safely. It can be difficult to replace anything once you’re in the bush. Hand sanitiser is readily available, and many lodges also provide insect repellent. If you’re travelling to a malaria area, speak to your doctor about prophylactics. Some guests also pack motion-sickness tablets or bands for light aircraft, allergy meds for dust or pollen, and antihistamines for the occasional bug bite.
Gear& Gadgets
For photographers, this one’s a no-brainer. Along with your usual gear and lenses, pack everything in a dustproof or waterproof bag and bring a spare memory card and a fully charged battery—you’ll thank yourself when the lion pride shows up just as your main battery dies (speaking from experience). A lightweight tripod is great for night skies, and a kikoi or scarf works well for shielding your gear from sun and dust.
Binoculars are a safari essential. Guests are provided with one pair of complimentary SWAROVSKI OPTIK binoculars per room. If you’re travelling with a fellow birder or know you won’t want to share, it’s worth bringing a second pair. The SWAROVSKI OPTIK VPA (Variable Phone Adapter) isn’t included, but it’s a great tool to bring for turning sightings into smartphone shots.
Most lodges provide torches in the suites, and staff escort guests to and from their rooms at night. Many travellers use their phone torches, but a backup light isn’t necessary.
Universal plug points and USB ports are standard at most lodges, but it’s smart to pack the right adaptor just in case. A USB splitter comes in handy for charging multiple devices, and a small power bank is useful on game drives (some vehicles offer charging ports, but it’s not a given).
Load up your Kindle or bring a good book, along with headphones and playlists for road transfers, poolside downtime, and the occasional “Africa time” delay. Many lodges have Bluetooth speakers in the suites—but in the bush, nature usually provides the best soundtrack.
Unless you’re a dedicated birder, there’s no need to bring a bird book. Most guides carry excellent ID books for birds, mammals and trees, and they’re happy to share. At the lodges, guests also receive a Guide’s Journal—a beautifully illustrated keepsake for noting wildlife sightings.
Dont forget the essentials
It goes without saying, but double-check that you have all your key travel documents: passport (with enough validity and blank pages), any required visas, travel itinerary, and insurance. Some countries may require certain travel vaccinations—ask your travel specialist for up-to-date requirements. It’s also wise to carry photocopies of your passport and important documents (and store a back-up on your phone or iPad), just in case.
Keep valuables, medication, and all essentials in your carry-on. Luggage delays happen, and you don’t want to be without the basics.
Bring some small-denomination USD for tipping porters or transfer drivers. Gratuities for your guide, tracker, butler, and housekeeping can usually be added to your bill at checkout, or you can leave cash. If unsure, ask your travel specialist for tipping guidelines.
What to Leave Behind
Now that your packing list is sorted, the most important things to bring are a sense of humour, an open mind, and a spirit for adventure. There’s nothing quite like your first safari—and once you’ve caught the safari bug, there’s no turning back.
Some things are best left at home:
- The diet. The food on safari is worth every bite.
- Snacks. With food and lodge-podge-inducing treats around every corner, you definitely won’t go hungry.
- Stress, deadlines, laptops. Disconnecting is part of the magic.
- Excess jewellery. Less is more.
- Camouflage clothing. Illegal in some African countries.
- Plastic bags. Banned in several regions.
- Hairdryer. Most lodges provide one; check before you go.
- Drones. Generally not allowed for wildlife security and guest privacy. Only bring one if you have prior approval and permits.
