A Safari is a big trip…but there is no need to overpack. In fact if you are taking small planes during your trip you won’t be allowed much luggage so you are forced to pack light. And given that laundry is usually offered free of charge, and done overnight, at camps and lodges, there is really no reason to overpack. Here is our recommended packing list for a warm-weather safari destination.
Overall Notes:
- Pack light! No large, hard suitcases allowed due to small planes. Need soft duffle, or smaller bag with wheels. 28”L X 24”W X 14”D Extra bags can often be stored as needed while on safari.
- For Kenya – Voltage: Type G adaptors(3 prong large) and some Type C (2 narrow round)
- Weather: Check!
- Laundry: Can usually do on-site at no fee at lodges (you must usually hand wash your underwear however). Fee at city hotels usually.
- Dress: Casual! Hiking pants with tee shirts and ‘overlay’ shirt and puffer as needed. No need to dress up. Black outerwear not recommended. ‘Safari’ colors preferred.
Bottoms:
safari/hiking pants (1-2)
jeans/casual pants for evening (1)
Sweats for lounging (1)
Hiking shorts if desired (1)
Tops:
Long Sleeved ‘safari’ top (1-2)
Short sleeve tees (3)
Long sleeve tees (1)
Lightweight fleece
Rain jacket
Light sweater for evening if desired (or just use fleece/puffer)
Puffer
Note: black and navy not recommended!
Evening:
Light dress if desired. Jeans are fine though.
Sporty:
Bathing suit/goggles, as needed
Coverup, as needed
Yoga tights/top, as needed
Socks/Undies/Jammies
Accessories:
Cotton scarf (bug repellent treated an option)
Sun hat with good brim
Sunglasses
Headlamp optional
Small, light daypack
Water bottle
Overflow tote
Camera/spare memory cards/battery, battery charger
Binoculars
Any meds or supplies
Snack bars just to have on hand
Travel wrap for plane and evenings if cool, as needed
Shoes:
Everyday shoes/sneakers
sandals/birkenstocks/flipflops
Hiking shoes
Toiletries:
Sunscreen
Malaria meds as needed
Other meds for first aid items as needed
Bug spray
General stuff (shampoo/toothpaste etc etc)
For Plane:
Headphones
Neck pillow
Air pods
Ipad/laptop as needed with cords
Adaptor(s)
Kindle (pre loaded)
Phone with chargers
Battery backup brick
Compression socks if desired
Snacks
