Tailored Ventures’ Recommended Packing List

It can be daunting when you are restricted to maximum luggage weight restrictions imposed by charter companies. In Southern Africa, 20kg is the norm (44 lb); however, in East Africa it is 15kg (33 lb). The best type of luggage is a soft bag, or backpack with an internal frame. Hard suitcases are inappropriate and not allowed on scheduled charter flights or light aircraft transfers. You should also have a carry-on bag for your small personal items. If you have other suitcases in addition to your safari bag, we can assist with recommended storage and/or transfers.

So, how do you adhere to this and still make sure you have everything? What do you need for safari, and especially, what is required at night?

GENERAL CLOTHING:

Lightweight fabrics (preferably cotton) are best in hot climates, although some of the high-tech safari synthetics are also effective. Depending on the time of year, temperatures can vary greatly, so the secret is to layer. Short sleeved t-shirts, long sleeved t-shirts and a good jacket should stand you in good stead—and keep you from evening insect bites! Neutral colours work best. White and bright colours are not advised while on safari, as they increase your visibility to wildlife. (It will also become soiled very quickly). Interestingly, red, blue and black have been known to attract Tsetse flies, so avoid those colours if you can. Khaki, brown, olive and beige colours are best for safaris and game walks. Camouflage clothing is not recommended.

CLOTHING FOR GAME DRIVES:

While on game drives, most people wear shorts and a t-shirt during the day and put on long- sleeved shirts and long pants in the evening for warmth, as well as for protection from mosquitoes. Should you be particularly sensitive to the sun, a loose cotton shirt is essential during the day.

Fleece or sweater and a windbreaker are must-haves, because it is highly possible that you will go out on a hot day, but be faced with a chilly evening on your return. Remember that layering your clothing will keep you warmer than relying on one thick item.

WHAT TO PACK:

As most lodges and safari camps offer laundry as part of their service, it is not necessary to bring a change of clothes for every day on safari. Also, all hotels offer laundry, at an additional cost. So that there is one less thing to worry about, we have compiled the following list of what you should pack.

MUST-HAVE CLOTHING:

Long trousers/slacks
T-shirts and/or golf-shirts – you want a sleeve option rather than a vest top for extra sun protection
Long-sleeved cotton shirts (especially for safari walking to protect you from the sun)
Shorts (short skirts are not practical for getting in and out of game drive vehicles)
Warm sweater/jumper – even in Summer as a cold night here or there could still surprise you
For winter you will need gloves, scarf, and a warm anorak or parka
Waterproof windbreaker for rainy months
Sports bra recommended for extra comfort during game drives as the roads can be bumpy
A hat with a wide brim, like a sunhat or bush hat
Headscarf/bandana, great for dusty dry regions
Socks, and good closed walking shoes, such as hiking boots, or even tennis or running shoes
Sandals – the best will be flat or low-heeled
Swimming costume/swimsuit and a cover-all for when you climb out the pool
Staying in the city or taking a luxury train? Formal attire may be required

MUST HAVE ESSENTIALS:

Valid passport, valid visas (if required), driver’s licence, and photocopy of passport page to carry in wallet
Air tickets, expense money, comprehensive travel insurance policy
Unabridged birth certificates for any travel through South Africa when travelling with children under 18 years
Proof of yellow fever vaccination where applicable (Chat to us about whether this is needed for your trip)
Malaria tablets if applicable (we can advise you on this)
Anti-nausea tablets if you suffer from motion sickness
Polarized or good quality sunglasses
For contact wearers, we recommend that you wear glasses to prevent irritation from dust
Prescription medication (and in case refills may be necessary, a copy of your prescription)
If you have a chronic medical condition, your physician may send extra meds to help you in case of illness. Ask them about this and don’t forget to pack them
Small torch (although many lodges have these in the rooms)
Tissues, hand-wipes or wet-wipes
Moisturizing cream, sunscreen, (SPF 30 or higher recommended), and lip balm
Insect repellent for body application, (e.g. Tabard, Peaceful Sleep, etc.); however, most lodges have these in the rooms
Camera equipment with memory sticks, film and spare batteries
Waterproof/dustproof bag/cover for your camera
For avid readers we recommend a Kindle, but pack paperbacks if you don’t have one
Writing materials or journal
Binoculars are essential: 8×40 or 8×42 is the recommended general-purpose binocular specification for both birding and mammal viewing.